Tenth Plague: Death of Firstborn

Tenth Plague: Death of Firstborn

Exodus 11: And the Lord said to Moses, “I will bring one more plague on Pharaoh and on Egypt. Afterward he will let you go from here. When he lets you go, he will surely drive you out of here altogether. ² Speak now in the hearing of the people, and let every man ask from his neighbor and every woman from her neighbor, articles of silver and articles of gold.” ³ And the Lord gave the people favor in the sight of the Egyptians. Moreover the man Moses was very great in the land of Egypt, in the sight of Pharaoh’s servants and in the sight of the people.

 

⁴ Then Moses said, “Thus says the Lord: ‘About midnight I will go out into the midst of Egypt; ⁵ and all the firstborn in the land of Egypt shall die, from the firstborn of Pharaoh who sits on his throne, even to the firstborn of the female servant who is behind the handmill, and all the firstborn of the animals. ⁶ Then there shall be a great cry throughout all the land of Egypt, such as was not like it before, nor shall be like it again. ⁷ But against none of the children of Israel shall a dog move its tongue, against man or beast, that you may know that the Lord does make a difference between the Egyptians and Israel.’ ⁸ And all these your servants shall come down to me and bow down to me, saying, ‘Get out, and all the people who follow you!’ After that I will go out.” Then he went out from Pharaoh in great anger.

 

⁹ But the Lord said to Moses, “Pharaoh will not heed you, so that My wonders may be multiplied in the land of Egypt.” ¹⁰ So Moses and Aaron did all these wonders before Pharaoh; and the Lord hardened Pharaoh’s heart, and he did not let the children of Israel go out of his land.

 

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GOD turns from warning Pharaoh to telling him what would happen. The difference with this plague is that it was too late. There would be nothing Pharaoh could do to stop the impending plague. Moses told Pharaoh that GOD would bring death to the firstborn of all Egyptians.

 

My Observations:

• GOD prophesied that HE would bring death to the firstborn of Egypt.
• GOD fulfilled the prophecy of the women asking for silver and gold and receiving it.
• GOD made Moses seen as a favorable leader versus Pharaoh to Pharaoh’s servants.

 

GOD’s grace was never recognized by Pharaoh. He would cause extreme pain to all Egyptian households because he would not give up his belief that he was a god.

 

The tenth plague represents a limit to GOD’s grace. Humans try to say their sinful love is unconditional. This is far from the truth because all humans have a sin nature. There is a part of a human that rebels against GOD. That same sin nature takes GOD’s grace for granted.

 

GOD may leave a leader of a nation alive, even though havoc has been poured out on the people. HE may even allow you and me to keep going in ways that do not include HIM. HE allows our heart to include HIM or not. HE stands at the door of our hearts and knocks. GOD was about to fully dismantle the Egyptian belief that humans can be in control.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD remind Moses about the final prophecy of GOD to Pharaoh?
• Have you taken grace for granted in something you need to address?
• Will you praise GOD for HIS grace over your life and remember what HE did for you?

Redemption Foretold

Redemption Foretold

Genesis 3: ¹⁴ So the Lord God said to the serpent:

“Because you have done this,
You are cursed more than all cattle,
And more than every beast of the field;
On your belly you shall go,
And you shall eat dust
All the days of your life.
¹⁵ And I will put enmity
Between you and the woman,
And between your seed and her Seed;
He shall bruise your head,
And you shall bruise His heel.”

 

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Desperate act of Satan to make humans imperfect seemed to work, but it didn’t! Satan really, really wanted to be GOD. I believe that his plan was to ruin Adam, Eve and any children they had. All humans would come from this couple. Satan could not create a human, so he figured he would steal them from GOD. Big mistake!

 

My Observations:

• GOD told Satan that HE was going to curse everything, but he was “more cursed” than any living being.
• GOD told Satan that his plan did not work, but it did hurt, so HIS heal would be bruised.
• GOD told Satan that HE was going to kick him in the head and there was nothing Satan could do about it!

 

This may sound like a slap on the wrist, but it was not. The “seed” of Adam had been ruined. Any child that was born, would now have the nature of Satan, otherwise known as a sin nature. It would be natural to not want what GOD wants. BUT JESUS told Satan, this plan did not work!

 

HE foretold a miraculous birth that would deal a crushing blow to Satan. “I will die for the humans”, I believe is the bruise on the heel of CHRIST. But you, Satan, will be kicked in the head, I believe was JESUS saying “I’m going to open the scrolls and you ARE going to hell, just as it was written.” “Your plan did not work, AND, you will pay for this.”

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD tell Moses about the curse of the serpent first?
• Have you ever wondered what makes you do things that are not pleasing to GOD and you know they are not pleasing?
• Are you willing to give the part of you that rebels against GOD to HIM, so HE can guide you to HIS path today?

But Fire Came Down

But Fire Came Down

Revelation 20: ⁷ After the thousand years are over, Satan will be set loose from his prison, ⁸ and he will go out to deceive the nations scattered over the whole world, that is, Gog and Magog. Satan will bring them all together for battle, as many as the grains of sand on the seashore. ⁹ They spread out over the earth and surrounded the camp of God's people and the city that he loves. But fire came down from heaven and destroyed them. ¹⁰ Then the Devil, who deceived them, was thrown into the lake of fire and sulfur, where the beast and the false prophet had already been thrown; and they will be tormented day and night forever and ever.

 

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After the final complaint, I had to do my duty. A member of my team had caused turmoil and was even speaking against me. I got the paperwork ready and fired him before he caused any more problems.

 

• This was the first person I had ever “fired.”
• I “fired” this person to protect the team.
• After “firing” this person, there was peace.

 

John, the disciple JESUS loved, was shown what happened to Satan after he was release from jail. Satan went out to deceive instead of repenting. He gathered a huge number of humans to fight against GOD and HIS people. They surrounded the camp of GOD’s people to take it over. But fire came down from heaven and destroyed them.

 

My Observations:

• When I rebel against GOD, it is a futile move.
• “Fire” from GOD is a permanent destruction.
• GOD protects HIS people and will one day say “That’s enough!”

 

Being separated from GOD forever is a terrible thing. I mean, I cannot imagine when GOD says, “I’ve had enough!” HE is extremely patient and slow to anger. BUT HE does get angry. HE sees every deception you and I have fallen for. HE does not blame anyone who believe they need a Savior from the consequence of deception.

 

JESUS is our Savior. HE knew we are like sheep that go astray. HE died for you and me and was raised from the dead. HE protects us from any harm and will remember HIS promise to us. I am thankful for GOD’s protection.

 

Challenge

• What is the tone of the writer when he mentions “But fire came down from heaven and destroyed them?”
• Have you ever had to fire someone or have been fired?
• Do you disagree with GOD’s methods to the point where you will have a futile fight against HIM?
• Will you give your life to CHRIST so HE can protect you?

Never Again!

Never Again!

Revelation 18: ²¹ Then a mighty angel picked up a stone the size of a large millstone and threw it into the sea, saying, “This is how the great city Babylon will be violently thrown down and will never be seen again. ²² The music of harps and of human voices, of players of the flute and the trumpet, will never be heard in you again! No workman in any trade will ever be found in you again; and the sound of the millstone will be heard no more! ²³ Never again will the light of a lamp be seen in you; no more will the voices of brides and grooms be heard in you. Your merchants were the most powerful in all the world, and with your false magic you deceived all the peoples of the world!”

 

²⁴ Babylon was punished because the blood of prophets and of God's people was found in the city; yes, the blood of all those who have been killed on earth.

 

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When the police arrived at the bowling alley, they asked me to identify one of the thugs who chased me. “Is this one of the people who were after you?” was the ludicrous question asked of me.

 

• I had just freshly ran away from danger and the police brought it back in my face!
• I worried that any jail time the thug would face would be short and I would have a problem later on.
• I did not believe the thug would permanently leave me alone.

 

John, the disciple JESUS loved, was shown a mighty angel pick up a stone, throwing it into the sea, and said many declarations about how the great city would “never again” do the harm on humanity it once did.

 

My Observations:

• GOD’s judgment is permanent and cannot be reversed.
• GOD will put an end to any torment HIS people faced throughout all of history.
• GOD sees any injustice done to anyone who believes in JESUS.

 

When GOD does away with evil, it will be permanent. I mean, there will be no retaliation, no pop up problems and no embarrassing confrontations with evil people who could cause future problems.

 

JESUS has been raised from the dead and that is not the end! HE went to build a new heaven and a new earth. HE sent the HOLY SPIRIT to live inside those who believe, to protect and give purpose to tell others about our risen Savior. I am glad I will, one day, never face problems again!

 

Challenge

• What reason does the writer give for the punishment of the great city?
• Have you ever feared to tell on someone who harmed you or lied on you or stole from you?
• Have you considered believing in JESUS as your Savior and life support today?

Waiting to Rejoice

Waiting to Rejoice

Revelation 18: All the ships' captains and passengers, the sailors and all others who earn their living on the sea, stood a long way off, ¹⁸ and cried out as they saw the smoke from the flames that consumed her: “There never has been another city like this great city!” ¹⁹ They threw dust on their heads, they cried and mourned, saying, “How terrible! How awful for the great city! She is the city where all who have ships sailing the seas became rich on her wealth! And in one hour she has lost everything!”

²⁰ Be glad, heaven, because of her destruction! Be glad, God's people and the apostles and prophets! For God has condemned her for what she did to you!

 

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As the teacher separated the thug from the rest of the class, I felt relieved. It seemed like she allowed the thug to torment us forever without doing something about it. Before she left with the thug to go to the principal’s office, she gave a warning. “Do not celebrate, because this could be you.”

 

• She put a damper on my celebration.
• I wanted to get excited because justice had finally been served.
• I was told to hold back on my celebration, which was kind of a letdown.

 

John, the disciple JESUS loved, saw world trade and ocean travel come to an end. The great city that made it possible for goods to be sold around the world, and for luxury cruises to make people rich, had come to an end. This was the final piece of demolition that GOD put in place.

 

My Observations:

• Wealth without GOD can lead to my destruction.
• Luxury without GOD can cause me to move further away from hear HIM and seeing HIM.
• One day, the rich, powerful and arrogant leaders will mourn over the fall that GOD has planned.

 

Wealth is a touchy subject that can cause highly charged conversations. I mean, one person preaches prosperity, the other preaches poverty, in terms of being close to GOD. JESUS said “Foxes have holes and birds have nests, but the SON of man does not have a place to lay HIS head” while HE walked on earth. HE owned everything, yet chose to be the poorest among HIS people.

 

To HIM, worldly wealth was not a thing to be obtained because HE owned it all anyway. But what was HE after? HE wanted to save all HIS humans HE created, from destruction. One day, JESUS will judge the world for stealing people away from following HIM. I gladly seek HIS kingdom, which are the lost people HE wants me to find.

 

Challenge

• Does the writer give a sense of urgency?
• Have you ever wanted to be rich or follow those who are?
• What is GOD’s plan for your life and why do you think HE has you where you are today?

I Ain ’t In It!

 

I Ain ’t In It!

Revelation 18: ⁹ The kings of the earth who took part in her immorality and lust will cry and weep over the city when they see the smoke from the flames that consume her. ¹⁰ They stand a long way off, because they are afraid of sharing in her suffering. They say, “How terrible! How awful! This great and mighty city Babylon! In just one hour you have been punished!”

 

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Getting caught in the act made me feel uncomfortable. I looked at others who were involved to speak up but no one stepped up. When I went to one guy, he said “My name is Bennet, I Ain ‘t  in it!” as if to say, I have nothing to do with your punishment! Ain ‘t is slang for “am not.”

 

• I wanted others to join in with me, so maybe my punishment would be milder.
• I wanted someone else to speak up so perhaps my punishment would go away.
• I actually did not know what I was expecting by asking guilty people for help to jump in when I was caught.

 

John, the disciple JESUS loved, was shown the fall of the great city that caused people to sin. Those who had joined in sexual sin mourned over the great punishment imposed on the city. But they stood off in the distance, afraid of sharing in the suffering.

 

My Observations:

• There is strength in numbers until “I” get caught doing something.
• I feel comfortable when “everyone” else is doing the same bad thing that I want to do.
• My best path is to stay away from doing the thing in the first place.

 

Risking getting caught is not the problem, rather doing the thing I would get caught doing, in the first place is the problem. Did I say that right? I mean, I should fear doing the thing that upsets GOD in the first place rather than fearing the consequence of my sinful action.

 

Before I commit the act, I should ask myself, “Is this worth losing everything over this moment of pleasure or this act of hatred?” “NO!” should be the answer. GOD gives me a way out that the tempting great city does not offer. HE provides forgiveness where the tempting city provides death. I choose JESUS for my forgiveness.

 

Challenge

• Why does the writer include the distance of the guilty people from the great city?
• Have you ever gotten caught for something you did wrong?
• Will you learn from your mistakes and stay away from easy sin so you will not have to face consequences today?

No Pain

No Pain

Revelation 16: Then I heard a loud voice speaking from the temple to the seven angels: “Go and pour out the seven bowls of God's anger on the earth!”

 

² The first angel went and poured out his bowl on the earth. Terrible and painful sores appeared on those who had the mark of the beast and on those who had worshiped its image.

 

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During the bowling tournament, my bowling partner looked at my face and asked me if I was alright. I said I felt fine, but she said she watched a bump appear on my face right in front of her. After the tournament, I went back and took a very hot shower, thinking “maybe I had come in contact with something.”

 

• I had chicken pox for the second time.
• I had rashes and bumps appear all over my body.
• I itched from head to toe!

 

John, the disciple JESUS loved, heard a loud voice, perhaps JESUS, speak. The seven angels who were given bowls of GOD’s anger began to pour them out on the earth. Anyone who had believed in the beast, who cursed GOD, would receive painful sores.

 

My Observations:

• GOD’s anger will cause those who oppose HIM, to experience terrible pain.
• Fear that will cause people to follow the beast, will also cause terrible pain.
• Trying to save my own life will cause me to lose it instead.

 

Giving up on GOD to try other methods of becoming whole is a terrible mistake. I mean, GOD reveals that life is HIS and so is death. HE alone knows the day and time HE has appointed for people to die or be caught up in the rapture.

 

Unfortunately there will be some who reject the living GOD to follow a human who curses HIM. They will focus on a leader who will seemingly unite the world and control commerce. Following this person will bring on GOD’s wrath that will not be able to be explained away. I am glad people who believe in JESUS will not experience the pain of HIS wrath.

 

Challenge

• Why does the writer mention the volume of the voice?
• Have you ever experienced pain or sores?
• Will you consider your relationship with JESUS to avoid the end time wrath, even if you are experiencing pain right now?

Anger Soup

Anger Soup

Revelation 15: ⁵ After this I saw the temple in heaven open, with the Sacred Tent in it. ⁶ The seven angels who had the seven plagues came out of the temple, dressed in clean shining linen and with gold bands tied around their chests. ⁷ Then one of the four living creatures gave the seven angels seven gold bowls full of the anger of God, who lives forever and ever. ⁸ The temple was filled with smoke from the glory and power of God, and no one could go into the temple until the seven plagues brought by the seven angels had come to an end.

 

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Testing the limits of what I could do, I performed my new found freedom in secret. I did a few things I was not supposed to do, and “got away with it.” But one day the thing I was doing was discovered and I had to face the full anger which I feared.

 

• I thought I was getting away with being “free.”
• I thought I would not have to face consequence if no one knew what I was doing.
• I thought I could escape anger.

 

John, the disciple JESUS loved, saw the temple in heaven open with the Sacred Tent in it. He saw seven angels with seven bowls of GOD’s anger ready to be poured out on the earth. This was the end of the patience of GOD, the earth had enjoyed since the beginning of humanity.

 

My Observations:

• GOD’s anger will one day be in full force.
• GOD has seen every wrong doing you and I have ever done.
• GOD’s anger can be escaped through saving belief in JESUS.

 

Our current actions dictate which bowls we belong to. One set of twenty eight bowls in heaven contains the prayers of those who believe in JESUS as the Savior. But there is another set of seven bowls that are GOD’s full anger towards those who cause harm to those who believe in JESUS.

 

GOD’s anger is nothing to play with. HIS fury is dedicated to those who refuse the prompting of the HOLY SPIRIT to believe in JESUS as the Savior. Blame, rage, wars and hatred spew from those who have not surrendered their lives . GOD records every though, every action against HIS kingdom. I am glad HE made a way to avoid HIS anger.

 

Challenge

• What does the writer say about GOD’s anger?
• Have you ever been angry at someone?
• Will you seek GOD’s grace by asking HIM for forgiveness today through HIS SON, JESUS?

Slow to Anger

Slow to Anger

Revelation 14: ¹⁷ Then I saw another angel come out of the temple in heaven, and he also had a sharp sickle.

¹⁸ Then another angel, who is in charge of the fire, came from the altar. He shouted in a loud voice to the angel who had the sharp sickle, “Use your sickle, and cut the grapes from the vineyard of the earth, because the grapes are ripe!” ¹⁹ So the angel swung his sickle on the earth, cut the grapes from the vine, and threw them into the wine press of God's furious anger. ²⁰ The grapes were squeezed out in the wine press outside the city, and blood came out of the wine press in a flood two hundred miles long and about five feet deep.

 

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A neighbor gave an uncharacteristic shout to stop playing in front of his house. A stray ball hit the window but it did not break. This neighbor was usually docile and in the past, never minded us playing.

 

• We had done something that crossed the line of patience.
• Patience had finally run out and the neighbor was furious.
• We could no longer play in front of that neighbor’s house because patience turned to wrath.

 

John, the disciple JESUS loved, saw another angel who had a sickle. But this time it was to cut down grapes that were growing. These grapes seemed to be filled with the wrongdoing of humanity. They had reached a limit and GOD was furious!

 

My Observations:

• GOD is slow to anger, BUT HE still gets angry.
• GOD is extremely patient, but one day HIS patience will run out and HE will pour out HIS fury.
• GOD has given humanity plenty of time to turn from their wicked ways, and one day HE will be furious.

 

No one likes to talk about the wrath of GOD. I mean, we usually want to mention HIM as “gentle” or “forgiving” or “loving.” HE is all of the above. BUT GOD is also “jealous”, “just” and “supreme.” HE can and will judge mankind based on their relationship with HIS SON, JESUS, who is the Savior.

 

All have sinned and fall short of GOD’s glory. This means we all deserve GOD’s wrath. We are saved from HIS wrath by “active” belief in JESUS. Not just the knowledge of the story of JESUS, but allowing HIM to guide our lives as we surrender to the HOLY SPIRIT. I am grateful GOD is slow to anger and recognize, HE will get angry!

 

Challenge

• What does the writer say about GOD’s fury?
• Have you ever tried someone’s patience and saw him or her run out?
• If you are testing GOD’s patience with you, will you consider turning your ways over to HIM by believing in HIS SON, and surrendering your life to HIM so HIS anger will not be poured out on you?

What Am I Saying?

What Am I Saying?

Revelation 14: ⁶ Then I saw another angel flying high in the air, with an eternal message of Good News to announce to the peoples of the earth, to every race, tribe, language, and nation. ⁷ He said in a loud voice, “Honor God and praise his greatness! For the time has come for him to judge all people. Worship him who made heaven, earth, sea, and the springs of water!”

 

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Saying a joke about someone got a few laughs. After a while, I was able to insult anyone who crossed my path. I became a jokester. But when I had something serious to say, people thought I was joking and brushed off the statements as unimportant.

 

• I felt I had wasted my words.
• I looked back on what I said and found no value.
• I realized that words are important.

 

John, the disciple JESUS loved, saw another especial event. Another angel appeared with an eternal message of Good News. This was to be announced to every race, tribe, language and nation. “Honor GOD and praise HIS greatness!

 

My Observations:

• GOD deserves honor and praise
• GOD will judge all people at a set time.
• GOD is worthy of worship because HE made heaven, earth, sea and springs of water.

 

How many of my words “Honor GOD?” I mean, even when I mention HIM, am I honoring HIM? GOD should be held in the highest esteem. Honor GOD means placing the highest value in who HE is and what HE does. Devaluing GOD, means seeing HIM as an obstacle, or a problem or not worthy of my time.

 

We only have so many words we will ever say in our lives. What’s important to GOD should be important to me. If he made a special event to tell us to Honor HIM, I should be willing to do so. I praise GOD from whom all blessings flow.

 

Challenge

• What is the great message given to the writer?
• Does the message seem mundane?
• Will you seek to “honor” GOD and “worship” HIM today?

Fish and Ships

Fish and Ships

Revelation 8: ⁸ Then the second angel blew his trumpet. Something that looked like a huge mountain on fire was thrown into the sea. A third of the sea was turned into blood, ⁹ a third of the living creatures in the sea died, and a third of the ships were destroyed.

 

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Fishing at a stocked lake was enjoyable. We caught several fish that were noteworthy. We went to other lakes that had fish at one point, but upon returning, the lakes seemed dead. “What happened to all the fish?” I pondered.

 

• I enjoyed fishing.
• I have seen lakes with fish jumping out of the water.
• I never wondered what it would be like if there were no fish.

 

 

John, the disciple JESUS loved, hears the second of seven trumpets blown. This second step of taking down Satan’s kingdom, was focused on the sea. A third of the fish and ships were killed and destroyed, more than likely to affect tourism, commercial fishing and goods and services trading.

 

My Observations:

• GOD doesn’t seem to be afraid of destroying the earth HE created, because HE is powerful enough to protect humans.
• Once GOD cursed something, there is no power to turn it back into being blessed.
• GOD’s people who believe in JESUS as the Savior will not have to experience a second death.

 

Destruction is usually an attribute we do not like to give to GOD, but is necessary. I mean, HE tells us what is coming and how HE will do it. We have to believe HE is going to do what HE says HE will do.

 

GOD warns us so we can have plenty of time to get in alignment with HIM. HE laid out HIS plan as clear as possible, showing us HE will take down Satan’s kingdom and bring HIS kingdom into full glory. This is not a time to be scared, but it is not a time to rejoice either, for GOD does not wish anyone to perish. This is a time to prepare.

 

Challenge

• How do you think the writer felt about writing this?
• Have you ever asked GOD to show HIS plan to you?
• Since HE has shown HIS plan, do you agree with HIS methods or does it raise more questions?
• Will you seek a different set of questions and allow HIS plan for your life to be shown to you without trying to steer GOD into getting your way but HIS?

Nature’s Closing

Nature’s Closing

Revelation 8: ⁶ Then the seven angels with the seven trumpets prepared to blow them.

⁷ The first angel blew his trumpet. Hail and fire, mixed with blood, came pouring down on the earth. A third of the earth was burned up, a third of the trees, and every blade of green grass.

 

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Going to a department store that a famous building was named after seemed like a fun trip. People were everywhere and the smell of popcorn whiffed from one area of the store. This store seemed invincible because they had “everything.” But one day, after a century of business, they announced the store closing.

 

• I went into a store and there was not much left.
• I saw that a third of everything was gone and the place looked empty.
• Every sale was final and there would be no more replenishment.

 

John, the disciple JESUS loved, heard the first angel blow the trumpet. This was the first sound after the silence brought on by the opening of the seventh seal. This marked the beginning of seven more steps in tearing down Satan’s kingdom. A third of all earth’s resources were burned up.

 

My Observations:

• Salvation is quite merciful and should be transformative.
• GOD said what HE would do, so my life should change to reflect my belief in HIS warning.
• GOD’s people do not have to worry about HIS wrath because JESUS saved us.

 

Trying to change GOD’s mind about tearing down Satan’s kingdom is futile. I mean, JESUS gave HIS all to have a relationship with us and HE told us what HE is going to do. Unfortunately, many people do not want to hear that GOD will take care of Satan in a powerful, unprecedented way.

 

Salvation is more than avoiding wrath. GOD has incredible love. Those who believe in JESUS will be spared from this wrath, BUT HE wants more than fear. HE wants a relationship with HIS creation and it take transformation of our mindset to “belong” to HIM.

 

Challenge

• Are the writer’s words scary?
• Have you ever seen something plentiful, then saw it not as plentiful?
• Will you turn fear into dedication by being transformed to serve GOD the way HE desires today?

Shhh

Shhh

Revelation 8: When the Lamb broke open the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven for about half an hour. ² Then I saw the seven angels who stand before God, and they were given seven trumpets.

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When the door opened, the laughter and playing stopped. Moments before, everyone was up chattering and doing the opposite of what we were told. “Stay in your seats” the teacher said before leaving. When she got back, we hurried to our seats. There was silence.

 

• Our silence could have been followed by someone saying “Uh-oh!”
• Our silence was to see what would happen.
• Our silence was not going to be broken by us, but by the one in authority.

 

John, the disciple JESUS loved, saw the LAMB open the seventh and final seal. Every being in heaven stopped whatever they were doing to become silent for about thirty minutes. Then the seven angels were given seven trumpets. Something was about to happen.

 

My Observations:

• Silence in heaven showed a transition in tone.
• Silence meant something serious was about to happen.
• The seventh seal being opened meant the sentence was fully in affect.

Quieting down is sometimes hard to do. I mean, to escape the worries of the world, I use noisy things like movies, TV or music to drown out thoughts of problems and troubles. In fact, I was afraid of turning off music or talking when driving my car. BUT GOD enjoys when I can be silent with HIM.

Silence is important. There is a tone of serenity with silence, but in this case, it was to mark the start of the end of Satan’s full sentence. GOD’s people do not have to worry about this sentence, because JESUS has saved all who believe in HIM.

Challenge

• What do you think the writer was doing in that half an hour period?
• Have you ever been in a noisy crowd that suddenly got silent?
• Will you take some time to become silent before the LORD so you can hear what HE has in store for you today?

Make It Happen

Make It Happen

2 Peter 3: ¹⁰ But the Day of the Lord will come like a thief. On that Day the heavens will disappear with a shrill noise, the heavenly bodies will burn up and be destroyed, and the earth with everything in it will vanish. ¹¹ Since all these things will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people should you be? Your lives should be holy and dedicated to God, ¹² as you wait for the Day of God and do your best to make it come soon—the Day when the heavens will burn up and be destroyed, and the heavenly bodies will be melted by the heat. ¹³ But we wait for what God has promised: new heavens and a new earth, where righteousness will be at home.

 

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“The sooner you all pick up all your stuff, the sooner you can leave” was the statement of the person who stood between us and freedom from the being “stuck” in the activity. It had been a long day and all of us wanted to leave, so we got to work putting everything in place.

 

• I wanted freedom from working.
• I wanted to be done with pain.
• I wanted to be in a better place than working or learning!

 

Peter tried to explain the imminent return of JESUS. He says it will come unexpectedly. He tried to explain the magnitude of the return of CHRIST by implying it will be extremely noticeable and unlike anything that has ever happened. He then suggests that we all prepare for this Day by seeking the lost with urgency.

 

My Observations:

• GOD’s desire is that no one will suffer and that all would accept HIS SON as the Savior.
• My desire should align with GOD’s desire.
• The sooner we all can work together in unity to present JESUS as the Savior to the world, the sooner HE will return.

 

Only GOD knows the Day that JESUS will return and on that Day, things will change immensely. I mean, many prophecies, given from GOD to multiple writers, state that the Day of the LORD will be a terrible day, however it will be a great one for those who love the LORD and believe in HIM as the Savior.

 

We don’t know the last person who will accept CHRIST, but it is important that we continue to pursue everyone with the urgency GOD desires. I am glad GOD has entrusted humans to seek other humans for eternity.

 

Challenge

• What picture does the writer put in your mind regarding the last day?
• How would you feel if someone could exclude you from heaven because he or she desired that you, or anyone like you, should not be included in GOD’s love?
• Will you believe that GOD has your name written in HIS hand and in the Lamb’s Book of Life, so you cannot lose your salvation and so you can seek those who are rejecting JESUS today?

Give an Account

 

Give an Account

1 Peter 4:  ⁵ But they will have to give an account of themselves to God, who is ready to judge the living and the dead. ⁶ That is why the Good News was preached also to the dead, to those who had been judged in their physical existence as everyone is judged; it was preached to them so that in their spiritual existence they may live as God lives.

 

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After I woke up, I realized that an hour had passed. The supervisor came by and asked “What have you been doing during this time?” I was supposed to be counting surveys, but the job was repetitious and boring. “I don’t know” was my childish reply.

 

• I didn’t do what I was supposed to be doing.
• I wasted my time sleeping.
• I had to give an account for what I was supposed to be doing.

 

Peter continues his theological explanation by stating why JESUS spoke to those who died without believing in HIM for salvation. Their spiritual existence is permanent so, unfortunately, their judgment is also permanent and eternal. After physical death, those who did not believe in JESUS will be judged.

 

My Observations:

• Salvation through JESUS is necessary for my current life.
• GOD wants all believers to spread the Gospel to everyone so that all may be saved.
• Those who reject the message of JESUS, unfortunately will not be saved.

 

Each of us has to give an account for our short time on earth. I mean, at some point I will stand in front of GOD and have HIM ask me “What did you do with your time on earth?” or HE will tell me “This is what you spent your time on earth.” Either way, I have to give an account for what is important to HIM, namely spreading the Gospel of HIS SON.

 

JESUS became a human to be murdered by HIS creation. HE was raised from the dead, showing GOD has all power over life and death. JESUS now rules at the right hand of GOD and they are waiting for the last person to accept HIM as Savior. I am glad GOD includes me in HIS plan to reach people with the Gospel.

 

Challenge

• What account is the writer speaking about?
• Have you ever looked at your time to assess how much of it you are giving to GOD?
• Will you give more time to GOD during the week to intentionally spread the Gospel of JESUS today?

It Comes Out

 

It Comes Out

1 Timothy 5: ²³ Do not drink water only, but take a little wine to help your digestion, since you are sick so often.

 

²⁴ The sins of some people are plain to see, and their sins go ahead of them to judgment; but the sins of others are seen only later. ²⁵ In the same way good deeds are plainly seen, and even those that are not so plain cannot be hidden.

 

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Sneaking off from work seemed like a good idea. Others were doing it so I decided to try it. I went to my apartment and played cards until it was time to go punch out. It worked! Soon I made a habit. I even made plans during work. I wen home and cooked dinner. When I went to punch out, my supervisor asked. “Where were you and why do you smell like cooked food?”

 

• I had gotten caught and I was embarrassed.
• I disappointed my boss who believed in me.
• I took for granted something I was supposed to be doing, and my hidden plans became exposed.

 

Paul turns from mentoring Timothy to encouraging him. He first expressed concern over Timothy’s health. He then gives some encouragement to Timothy, who may have been frustrated that the people he was leading were missing the value in his servanthood. He let Timothy know that even the smallest, hidden good deed will be seen.

 

My Observations

• My hidden sin tends to make itself known at an inconvenient time.
• JESUS forgave me for all my sins, hidden and plain to see.
• It is more satisfying to live with a clear conscience and do good deeds for the LORD, than to keep hiding things in my heart that get me deeper and deeper into trouble.

 

Hidden things come out. I mean, the thing that I think I can hide and take to my grave is probably the thing that will hurt the most because GOD has to reveal it. “Well, HE forgives me, right?” Yes, but it may still have pain and at some point I got tired of causing my own pain and blaming it on everyone else or circumstances.

 

GOD sees my heart and wants me to ask HIM to live inside. HE then prompts me to do “good deeds” that serve HIS purpose of bringing people back to HIM. HE sees the tiniest hidden good deed and also shows HIS gratitude in ways that are amazing! I am so glad GOD cares and sees all good deeds.

 

Challenge

• Can you feel the care from the writer?
• Have you ever done a hidden sin and think it will never come out?
• Will you confess your sins to GOD, including the sneaky, bitter, hateful things, so HE can be faithful and just to forgive you of those sins and cleanse you of all unrighteousness today?
• Will you also start doing “good deeds” that are pleasing to the LORD today?

 

Prayer

Dear LORD, you know my deepest hidden sins. Please forgive me. YOU also know the deepest hidden sins of this reader. Make him or her able to confess to YOU these sins so YOU will forgive and cleanse. Please also fill his or her heart with YOUR good deeds today. amen

Shared Power

Shared Power

2 Corinthians 13: This is now the third time that I am coming to visit you. “Any accusation must be upheld by the evidence of two or more witnesses”—as the scripture says. ² I want to tell those of you who have sinned in the past, and all the others; I said it before during my second visit to you, but I will say it again now that I am away: the next time I come nobody will escape punishment. ³ You will have all the proof you want that Christ speaks through me. When he deals with you, he is not weak; instead, he shows his power among you. ⁴ For even though it was in weakness that he was put to death on the cross, it is by God's power that he lives. In union with him we also are weak; but in our relations with you we shall share God's power in his life.

 

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“Oooo, I’m telling!” were the words of dread from another kid’s mouth. My teasing had turned into vicious put downs, causing him to go and tell on me. Now I was in trouble!

 

• I dreaded having to face consequence.
• I only wanted to be forgiven without needing to endure any penalties.
• I was mad at being told on.

 

Paul clarifies that he doesn’t want twisted stories. Specific sin needed to have two or more witnesses. The sin needed to be clear and not manufactured by one and planted into others. Paul was given the power to cast out demons and do other miraculous things. He shared in the power of JESUS and wanted to be careful when dealing with blatant sin.

 

My Observations

• GOD gave HIS SON to us so we can share in the power that raised HIM from the dead.
• GOD allowed me to be saved and forgiven of all my sins.
• GOD allows other people to bring consequence on me when I blatantly sin against him or her.

 

Forgiveness is wonderful. I mean, all my sins are forgiven?! Wow! BUT GOD doesn’t like sin, not even the smallest. One bite of a piece of fruit took humanity down. That sin doesn’t compare to all the ones I ever committed.

 

GOD does forgive, and HE protects people. HE sees when I do wrong to others and allows consequence to fall on me. I do not like consequence but I understand when GOD wants me corrected. HE also give me the power to restore those who repent. I am glad HE corrects and restores me.

 

Challenge

• Do you feel the writer’s passion?
• What would you do in his situation?
• Do you feel good when someone gets punished?
• Will you seek restoration instead of punishment and allow GOD to own any vengeance today?

Must Appear

Must Appear

2 Corinthians 5: ⁶ So we are always full of courage. We know that as long as we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord's home. ⁷ For our life is a matter of faith, not of sight. ⁸ We are full of courage and would much prefer to leave our home in the body and be at home with the Lord. ⁹ More than anything else, however, we want to please him, whether in our home here or there. ¹⁰ For all of us must appear before Christ, to be judged by him. We will each receive what we deserve, according to everything we have done, good or bad, in our bodily life.

 

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Receiving a summons to appear in court was never fun but it happened. The words “YOU MUST APPEAR” were in big bold red capital letters that seemed intimidating. The letter held instructions about my court date but it also had the traffic violation and the date of my malefaction.

 

• I felt angry, shamed and scared all at once.
• I felt like my perfect driving record was damaged.
• I felt that I had to drive extra perfect to keep from being judged again. This was super false!

 

Paul mentions the true purpose of life. He says “Life is a matter of faith” and then tells everyone that the faith that is worth anything is to please the LORD JESUS who will one day judge everyone according to every deed that is done.

 

My Observations

• Every deed I do is seen by GOD.
• One deed does not undo another deed in GOD’s eyes.
• GOD is the only one who sees the things I do for HIM and judges the things I do for myself.

 

Trying to act righteous can sometimes get me in trouble. I mean, when I think I am pleasing GOD by following the Bible to the letter, I may be hurting others by holding them to a standard I could not keep myself. BUT DOD wants me to act differently.

 

HE wants me to point my sinful life to HIM so others can do the same. Life is not about living in perfection rather accepting perfection which is JESUS. The HOLY SPIRIT will then guide me to the places I need to go and deliver the words I need to say. Life is about surrender so I can be pleasing to GOD. The more I surrender to GOD the more pleasing and amazing deeds HE guides me to do.

 

Challenge

• What do you notice about fear and courage in this passage?
• Have you ever placed your courage in something the crowd is saying but felt it could possibly be against what GOD is telling you?
• Can you gain courage to surrender your life to JESUS little by little, giving HIM your deeds as best as you can without worrying about HIS judgement but focusing in on HIS love today?

Desiring Good Body Health

 Desiring Good Body Health

1 Corinthians 11: ²⁶ This means that every time you eat this bread and drink from this cup you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes. ²⁷ It follows that if one of you eats the Lord's bread or drinks from his cup in a way that dishonors him, you are guilty of sin against the Lord's body and blood. ²⁸ So then, you should each examine yourself first, and then eat the bread and drink from the cup. ²⁹ For if you do not recognize the meaning of the Lord's body when you eat the bread and drink from the cup, you bring judgment on yourself as you eat and drink. ³⁰ That is why many of you are sick and weak, and several have died. ³¹ If we would examine ourselves first, we would not come under God's judgment. ³² But we are judged and punished by the Lord, so that we shall not be condemned together with the world.

 

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“If one of you is late, then all of you are late” were the words of the organization I was trying to join during college. This didn’t seem fair because there were always a couple of people who would always be late, who also were trying to join. When asked where are they, no one spoke up. I then made up something to protect them. “When one of you doesn’t tell the truth, all of you lie” was the reply. How did he know I was lying?

 

• There were times when I wanted to protect myself so I would do or say anything to do so.
• There were times when I thought “It was their fault I am being punished.”
• There were times when I felt I was justified with an individual sin I did because those people “made” me do it.

 

Paul warns people about eating and drinking in a way that dishonors JESUS. He had already explained that the “body” should have unity, now he is addressing something more serious, namely the heart. He suggests staying away from proclaiming what JESUS has done by eating and drinking communion bread and wine until recognition of “the body” is accepted.

 

My Observations

• GOD wants me to see all people as HIS.
• GOD wants me to examine myself to see if I have any evil desires towards one of HIS children.
• GOD wants me to turn from those evil desires by asking HIM for forgiveness.

 

Being forgiven by GOD seems unnecessary once I believed in JESUS for salvation, I mean I’m going to sin and didn’t HE forgive me for all my sins? Yes, however if I have the attitude that I do not need to follow what JESUS desires, am I in trouble? Possibly.

 

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom. Having a healthy fear of GOD to me means I can see other people and desire the best for them, which is a saving relationship with JESUS. This doesn’t mean I or they won’t slip and sin, rather all of us will be guided by the HOLY SPIRIT to seek GOD’s kingdom first. I am not better than another person in HIS eyes. I am glad HE looks at all of us with HIS love.

 

Challenge

• What do you notice about the seriousness of eating and drinking to proclaim HIS death until HE returns?
• What do you see regarding how you treat others or “the body”?
• How does self-examination affect health? Do you believe health can be affected by the heart?
• Is there anyone in your heart that could be treated more honorably?