Be a Special Treasure

Be a Special Treasure

Exodus 19: In the third month after the children of Israel had gone out of the land of Egypt, on the same day, they came to the Wilderness of Sinai. ² For they had departed from Rephidim, had come to the Wilderness of Sinai, and camped in the wilderness. So Israel camped there before the mountain.

 

³ And Moses went up to God, and the Lord called to him from the mountain, saying, “Thus you shall say to the house of Jacob, and tell the children of Israel: ⁴ ‘You have seen what I did to the Egyptians, and how I bore you on eagles’ wings and brought you to Myself. ⁵ Now therefore, if you will indeed obey My voice and keep My covenant, then you shall be a special treasure to Me above all people; for all the earth is Mine. ⁶ And you shall be to Me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.’ These are the words which you shall speak to the children of Israel.”

 

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Three months into the journey, GOD led the people to Mount Sinai. Moses went up to speak with GOD who told him that if the people would obey HIM and keep HIS covenant, then they shall be a special treasure to HIM.

 

My Observations:

• GOD brought the people out of Egypt without their power being used or their sin being addressed.
• GOD provided a condition that reached beyond sin management.
• GOD said everyone and everything is HIS and the children of Israel would be viewed as special to HIM.

 

Sometimes I forget that everything GOD made is HIS. Every person, every place and every thing is GOD’s. When I limit GOD to how well I can keep the commandments, I begin to think that GOD is a lousy ruler who sets impossible standards and blames me for not being able to keep them.

 

GOD seems to be pointing to JESUS. Keeping HIS covenant was the last thing on the children of Israel’s mind throughout the Bible. GOD had to intervene to make sure JESUS came as a human to save mankind. The children of Israel did in fact become a special treasure because JESUS was born and did complete HIS purpose of dying for our sins.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD remind Moses about whet HE said on the first trip up Mount Sinai?
• Have you fallen into the trap of trying to manage sin, thinking you can manipulate GOD into getting your way?
• Can you look beyond sin management for a minute to praise GOD for HIS leadership, despite your sins?

Assurance from GOD

Assurance from GOD

Exodus 14: ¹⁵ And the Lord said to Moses, “Why do you cry to Me? Tell the children of Israel to go forward. ¹⁶ But lift up your rod, and stretch out your hand over the sea and divide it. And the children of Israel shall go on dry ground through the midst of the sea. ¹⁷ And I indeed will harden the hearts of the Egyptians, and they shall follow them. So I will gain honor over Pharaoh and over all his army, his chariots, and his horsemen. ¹⁸ Then the Egyptians shall know that I am the Lord, when I have gained honor for Myself over Pharaoh, his chariots, and his horsemen.”

 

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Seeing the Egyptian army pursuing them, the children of Israel cried out to the LORD in fear. GOD spoke to Moses and said what HE would do.

 

My Observations:

• GOD knew the people were scared and did not scold them for it.
• GOD asks Moses a leadership building question to grow him beyond fear.
• GOD told Moses what HE was about to do through him.

 

“Lift up your rod” is symbolic for what GOD was going to do. GOD was raising Moses up to continue to be their leader. GOD would part the sea, but HE wanted the people to witness a human holding up a rod so they would believe that HE listens to Moses.

 

GOD also wanted the Egyptians to believe there is no other GOD. HE promised that after this encounter with HIM, the Egyptians would no longer be a threat. No military force can withstand GOD. The Egyptian hearts would solidify in thinking they could defeat GOD’s people. GOD reassured HIS people by telling them what HE would do.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD remind Moses about HIS conversation with him concerning HIS promise?
• Has GOD made you a promise that needs reassurance?
• Will you ask GOD for reassurance, knowing HE does not mind if you are afraid right now?

Fear Introduced to Salvation

Fear Introduced to Salvation

Exodus 14: ¹⁰ And when Pharaoh drew near, the children of Israel lifted their eyes, and behold, the Egyptians marched after them. So they were very afraid, and the children of Israel cried out to the Lord. ¹¹ Then they said to Moses, “Because there were no graves in Egypt, have you taken us away to die in the wilderness? Why have you so dealt with us, to bring us up out of Egypt? ¹² Is this not the word that we told you in Egypt, saying, ‘Let us alone that we may serve the Egyptians’? For it would have been better for us to serve the Egyptians than that we should die in the wilderness.”

 

¹³ And Moses said to the people, “Do not be afraid. Stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord, which He will accomplish for you today. For the Egyptians whom you see today, you shall see again no more forever. ¹⁴ The Lord will fight for you, and you shall hold your peace.”

 

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When the millions of people saw the hundreds of chariots coming in the distance, they panicked. First they cried out to the LORD. Then they turned to Moses and blamed him for bringing them out of Egypt. Moses calmly told the people to “Stand still.”

 

My Observations:

• The children of Israel had a slave mindset that kept them from dreaming, solving problems for themselves or fighting.
• The children of Israel wanted complacent, controlled pain versus facing the unknown with GOD.
• Moses did not rebuke the children of Israel for being afraid.

 

Before the plagues, Moses and Aaron showed the children of Israel what GOD was going to do to the Egyptians. They all believed and praised GOD. But when Pharaoh took away their straw and kept the quota of bricks, they complained about Moses and GOD’s desire to free them. Their expectations of what GOD was going to do were not being met.

 

After the plagues, they were driven out of Egypt. They left excited. But when Pharaoh pursued them, they immediately were filled with fear. Six hundred thousand men were afraid of six hundred men. Moses did not yell. He calmly told them to “Stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord,.” He also said GOD would fight the battle and the problem would not happen again. GOD would take care of their fear.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD remind Moses about the reaction of the children of Israel to Pharaoh’s pursuit?
• Have you ever blamed GOD for how he is delivering you?
• Can you stand still and see the salvation of the LORD that will happen today so you can hold your peace?

 

Prayer

Dear LORD, thank YOU for helping us slow down, sit down and lay down. GOD the battle is YOURS. Please fight the battle that tries to rob us of our peace. Please go before us as we place our fragile trust before YOUR throne. amen

Nation Called to Serve GOD

Nation Called to Serve GOD

Exodos 4: ²¹ And the Lord said to Moses, “When you go back to Egypt, see that you do all those wonders before Pharaoh which I have put in your hand. But I will harden his heart, so that he will not let the people go. ²² Then you shall say to Pharaoh, ‘Thus says the Lord: “Israel is My son, My firstborn. ²³ So I say to you, let My son go that he may serve Me. But if you refuse to let him go, indeed I will kill your son, your firstborn.” ’ ”

 

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After Moses accepted his calling, he went to his father-in-law to leave peacefully. Moses left his contentment to do what GOD called him to do. GOD warned Moses by telling him this would not be easy, but Moses was supposed to be obedient in doing all the wonders GOD had in store. GOD then calls Israel HIS “son.”

 

My Observations:

• GOD referred to Israel as HIS “son” for the first time, meaning nation, not JESUS.
• GOD wanted the nation of Israel to serve HIM after being called out of Egypt.
• GOD used the decree of the Pharaoh by saying “I will kill your son.”

 

When GOD says HE will kill someone, it’s not good. If you substitute the word “son” for “nation” and reread the scripture, you will see that GOD was about to take Egypt out of power. Their rule was far reaching and cruel. There is also a time that is too late with GOD. Pharaoh and the Egyptian beliefs had already reached the point of no return. GOD would harden their hearts. This is scary.

 

GOD also used the decree “I will kill your son” as Egypt’s own words used against them. One Pharaoh told the children of Israel to kill their sons by throwing them into the river. GOD would eventually perform a plague that would involve the river turning into blood. GOD was preparing Moses that even though miracles would be performed, Pharaoh would not admit that GOD is GOD.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD remind Moses about HIS warnings about Pharaoh?
• Do you think GOD doesn’t see your suffering or the hearts of those who have been cruel?
• In the middle of uncertainty and cruelness, will you remain obedient to GOD to see HIS deliverance?

Nations and People Groups 6 of 6

 

Nations and People Groups 6 of 6

Genesis 10:  ²¹ And children were born also to Shem, the father of all the children of Eber, the brother of Japheth the elder. ²² The sons of Shem were Elam, Asshur, Arphaxad, Lud, and Aram. ²³ The sons of Aram were Uz, Hul, Gether, and Mash. ²⁴ Arphaxad begot Salah, and Salah begot Eber. ²⁵ To Eber were born two sons: the name of one was Peleg, for in his days the earth was divided; and his brother’s name was Joktan. ²⁶ Joktan begot Almodad, Sheleph, Hazarmaveth, Jerah, ²⁷ Hadoram, Uzal, Diklah, ²⁸ Obal, Abimael, Sheba, ²⁹ Ophir, Havilah, and Jobab. All these were the sons of Joktan. ³⁰ And their dwelling place was from Mesha as you go toward Sephar, the mountain of the east. ³¹ These were the sons of Shem, according to their families, according to their languages, in their lands, according to their nations.

 

³² These were the families of the sons of Noah, according to their generations, in their nations; and from these the nations were divided on the earth after the flood.

 

 

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Shem was the youngest son of Noah. He seemed to be the one who watched Noah’s interactions with the LORD. When Canaan may have sent his father, Ham, into the tent of Noah in an act of defiance, it was Shem who came up with the idea that would preserve Noah. He and his older brother Japeth would walk into Noah’s tent backward and cover his nakedness.

 

My Observations:

• Shem respected GOD and did not scoff at HIS ways.
• Shem tried to mirror Noah by doing what pleased GOD.
• Noah’s curse included a blessing for Shem’s family.

 

Following GOD became complex early on. Satan had a great plan to steal humans and to protect himself from GOD’s judgment. He made the first humans’ sin, causing all humans to have a sin nature. The “seed of Adam” would be passed down with a nature that opposed GOD. BUT GOD had a plan.

 

GOD chose people who fought against this natural inclination to sin. While not perfect, Shem’s family preserved their love of GOD by fighting their sin nature. GOD blessed this family to the point that eventually JESUS would come as a human through this lineage. Salvation was in this plan!

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD go into detail about the family of Shem to Moses?
• Have you ever wondered why GOD chooses imperfect people to do important things?
• Knowing that GOD wants ALL humans to believe in HIS SON, are your words defiant or reliant in HIS eyes?

Mercy

Mercy

Genesis 9: ¹² And God said: “This is the sign of the covenant which I make between Me and you, and every living creature that is with you, for perpetual generations: ¹³ I set My rainbow in the cloud, and it shall be for the sign of the covenant between Me and the earth. ¹⁴ It shall be, when I bring a cloud over the earth, that the rainbow shall be seen in the cloud; ¹⁵ and I will remember My covenant which is between Me and you and every living creature of all flesh; the waters shall never again become a flood to destroy all flesh. ¹⁶ The rainbow shall be in the cloud, and I will look on it to remember the everlasting covenant between God and every living creature of all flesh that is on the earth.” ¹⁷ And God said to Noah, “This is the sign of the covenant which I have established between Me and all flesh that is on the earth.”

 

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After wiping out all living things, only eight people remained. Noah, his wife, his sons and their wives were given the blessing to be fruitful and multiply for the purpose of GOD. BUT GOD knew this blessing would not last very long. HE saw the sins of humans and knew they would turn from HIM. HE created a reminder for HIMSELF that HE placed at the end of storms. HE created a rainbow.

 

My Observations:

• GOD shows incredible restraint when it comes to how HE handles human sin.
• GOD gave HIMSELF a reminder that HE would not wipe out humans, rather save them.
• GOD showed us mercy that is beyond all understanding.

 

Officially, GOD turned over the earth to humans. HE would no longer have a Garden on earth that would grow itself. Animals would fear humans and sometimes attack. Humans were given control and would need help guiding each other to listen to GOD. But culture would get in the way.

 

Culture tries to steal rainbows and give it a false meaning to fit their agenda. BUT GOD uses it for an entirely different purpose. HE is using the rainbow like a set of brakes on a car. HE stops HIMSELF from wrath and shows mercy instead.

 

JESUS, in a sense, can be that rainbow. The HOLY SPIRIT, who lives inside believers, may see and experience the hurt of sin. HE begs to JESUS in utterances we do not understand. JESUS stands before the FATHER on our behalf. Mercy is granted. GOD remembers and provides mercy!

 

Challenge

• Why do you think GOD told Moses about the promise HE made to HIMSELF?
• Have you ever needed mercy?
• Have you taken time to consider how much mercy GOD has shown you over your life?

Dependable Promise

Dependable Promise

Genesis 9: ⁸ Then God spoke to Noah and to his sons with him, saying: ⁹ “And as for Me, behold, I establish My covenant with you and with your descendants after you, ¹⁰ and with every living creature that is with you: the birds, the cattle, and every beast of the earth with you, of all that go out of the ark, every beast of the earth. ¹¹ Thus I establish My covenant with you: Never again shall all flesh be cut off by the waters of the flood; never again shall there be a flood to destroy the earth.”

 

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Turning over all control of the earth to humans required some assurance. GOD the creator, wiped out most living things. Only those who were on the ark survived. HE did this because the thoughts and actions of humans were guided by their sin nature which led to extreme violence. GOD devised a plan with one person, Noah.

 

His family was saved because he walked with the LORD. GOD, knowing the son’s hearts, gave a commandment to preserve life. No killing or eating humans. Then GOD gave assurance that HE would never wipe out humans with a flood.

 

My Observations:

• When GOD makes a promise, HE is faithful and just to keep it.
• GOD knew that humans would not choose HIM, yet HE promised to not wipe them out.
• GOD showed mercy and grace towards humans, knowing HE was the one who had to save them from themselves.

 

Assurance that GOD would never flood the earth was given to every human, animal and bug. But it was more than assurance. It was disclosure that another plan was in action. GOD was not rolling over and allowing humans to be ruled by their sin nature.

 

HE allowed humanity to live with free will to choose HIM or not. HE gave humanity another chance and set an example of what amazing grace looked like. Even when GOD is hated, looked at as a problem versus a solution or shows HIMSELF faithful by providing and is turned away from by HIS creation; GOD still keeps HIS promise.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD tell Moses about this promise HE made to all living things?
• Have you ever doubted GOD’s love for you?
• Are you willing to let go of some of your doubt by focusing on the promises GOD made to you today?

Starting Over

Starting Over

Genesis 8: ¹³ And it came to pass in the six hundred and first year, in the first month, the first day of the month, that the waters were dried up from the earth; and Noah removed the covering of the ark and looked, and indeed the surface of the ground was dry. ¹⁴ And in the second month, on the twenty-seventh day of the month, the earth was dried.

 

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GOD created a wonderful place for humans to live with HIM. HE gave humans millions of trees and had two for HIMSELF. Satan, wanting to be GOD was thrown from heaven. He was determined to be GOD, so he tempted the first humans to disobey GOD. Humans fell and every human from then on was born with the inclination to sin. They wanted to get back into the Garden of Eden, but the cherubim would not allow access.

 

Humans had become so violent that GOD decided to wipe them out. But Noah walked with the LORD and did not listen to his sin nature. GOD blesses Noah and his family by telling him to build an ark. GOD flooded the earth, killing every human, animal and insect that was not on the ark. The floodwaters receded and the ark was now on dry ground.

 

My Observations:

• GOD gave Noah and his family a new place for them to start humanity over.
• GOD broke apart the Garden of Eden, scattering pieces of gold and precious stones everywhere.
• GOD gave humanity ample time to walk with HIM, but they chose to ignore HIM by going their own way.

 

At six hundred and one, Noah was given the responsibility to start humanity over. This time the relationship would be different. The Garden of Eden would no longer be there as a reminder of humanity’s fall. The great flood would now be that reminder as bones and carcasses were spread across the globe.

Dry land was now available. The dove Noah released did not return. She built a nest somewhere close by. GOD had kept HIS promise of saving humanity through one family.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD tell Moses about Noah’s age?
• Have you ever felt you were getting “too old” to start over?
• Are you willing to believe in GOD regardless of your age, so HE can start a new thing through you today?

Sudden and Thorough

Sudden and Thorough

Genesis 7: ¹⁷ Now the flood was on the earth forty days. The waters increased and lifted up the ark, and it rose high above the earth. ¹⁸ The waters prevailed and greatly increased on the earth, and the ark moved about on the surface of the waters. ¹⁹ And the waters prevailed exceedingly on the earth, and all the high hills under the whole heaven were covered. ²⁰ The waters prevailed fifteen cubits upward, and the mountains were covered. ²¹ And all flesh died that moved on the earth: birds and cattle and beasts and every creeping thing that creeps on the earth, and every man. ²² All in whose nostrils was the breath of the spirit of life, all that was on the dry land, died. ²³ So He destroyed all living things which were on the face of the ground: both man and cattle, creeping thing and bird of the air. They were destroyed from the earth. Only Noah and those who were with him in the ark remained alive. ²⁴ And the waters prevailed on the earth one hundred and fifty days.

 

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GOD told Noah HIS plan of salvation of mankind. Satan thought he had won by ruining human by tempting them to eat from the Tree id Knowledge. Every human was born with a sin nature and very few walked with GOD. The plan was to save humans from total destruction through eight people. Evil thoughts prevailed and, though GOD walked amongst HIS people, they may have blamed HIM for casting them out of the luxury of the Garden of Eden.

 

When GOD shut the door on the ark, it was too late. HE made it rain so fast and HE also broke apart the ground so forcefully that no living thing could even think about the ark. The rain fell in measures never seen before or since.

 

My Observations:

• GOD was very patient with humanity, but once that patience ran out, judgement was executed.
• GOD allowed people to do whatever they wanted to do, but that had a limited time.
• GOD had a plan to save humanity from total antihalation and HE executed HIS plan as promised.

 

In modern days, monsoons happen in some regions. This devastating rain can cause floods and wash away manmade structures. Same with tsunamis. Water was used by GOD to break apart the earth and to destroy anything that was tainted by Satan’s pride. Violent collections of animals, and luxurious living was all washed away.

 

Nothing was left that humans could take credit for. The water flowed twenty-two feet above the highest mountain and lasted about half a year. GOD’s salvation is just as sudden, thorough and powerful. HE can and will save those who seek HIM.

 

Challenge

• Why did GOD tell Moses about the lengths of time that it rained and that the water remained?
• Are you in a season that feels like it is raining all the time?
• Can you place your thinking on GOD’s wonderful plan HE has for you so HE can pour out HIS blessings on you?

Continental Divide

Continental Divide

Genesis 7: ⁷ So Noah, with his sons, his wife, and his sons’ wives, went into the ark because of the waters of the flood. ⁸ Of clean animals, of animals that are unclean, of birds, and of everything that creeps on the earth, ⁹ two by two they went into the ark to Noah, male and female, as God had commanded Noah. ¹⁰ And it came to pass after seven days that the waters of the flood were on the earth. ¹¹ In the six hundredth year of Noah’s life, in the second month, the seventeenth day of the month, on that day all the fountains of the great deep were broken up, and the windows of heaven were opened. ¹² And the rain was on the earth forty days and forty nights.

 

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On the second- and third-day GOD created water capable of rain and fountains capable of tearing apart the large land mass known as dry land or earth. GOD, in HIS week of creation, already knew what HE was going to do to save mankind from itself. All of life depended on something flimsy, dysfunctional and unattractive as an ark.

 

My Observations:

• GOD used water to break up the earth and flood the land.
• GOD knew HE would need to save humanity from the bad choices caused by Satan’s temptation.
• GOD kept HIS promise of what HE said HE was going to do.

 

Every human, animal and bug would be drowned if they were not on the ark. GOD had completed HIS inspection of the ark and told Noah and his family to “come inside.” HE then left the ark and caused it to rain. HE broke up the land mass into the seven continents of today. The water that gently gave life to the plants was now destructive and a force that could not be overcome.

 

After Noah finished his ark, they all went inside. Not knowing what would really happen they got settled in. The miraculous movement and obedience of the animals gave the family some comfort that the thing Noah had been talking about for decades was really going to happen.  On a very specific day, the first raindrop fell.

 

Challenge

• Why was GOD so specific to Moses about the date it started raining?
• Have you ever been amazed at GOD keeping HIS promise to you?
• Has GOD planned out salvation for you in ways that are different than what you thought?

Passed Inspection

Passed Inspection

Genesis 7: Then the Lord said to Noah, “Come into the ark, you and all your household, because I have seen that you are righteous before Me in this generation. ² You shall take with you seven each of every clean animal, a male and his female; two each of animals that are unclean, a male and his female; ³ also seven each of birds of the air, male and female, to keep the species alive on the face of all the earth. ⁴ For after seven more days I will cause it to rain on the earth forty days and forty nights, and I will destroy from the face of the earth all living things that I have made.” ⁵ And Noah did according to all that the Lord commanded him. ⁶ Noah was six hundred years old when the floodwaters were on the earth.

 

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Patience was given to Noah from GOD. It seems that GOD did not rush Noah in completing the ark, rather HE waited for him to complete the ark before giving him final instructions. The LORD must have entered the ark and saw that it was complete. “Come into the ark” let’s me know the LORD was inside.

 

My Observations:

• GOD waited for Noah to complete the ark versus giving him a deadline.
• GOD inspected the ark, not for HIS sake, but to let Noah know it was ready.
• GOD gave Noah the final instructions which may have caused Noah to act differently.

 

Assurance was probably needed after expending this great amount of effort. Noah had probably become comfortable with the building process, but now it was time to execute GOD’s plan. Noah may have been nervous about his work, so the LORD calmed him down. Noah no longer had time to try to convince his siblings, cousins, nieces, nephews, and neighbors that GOD was about to wipe out everything.

 

“It’s going to work” was the implied feeling because GOD told Noah that prey and predators were supposed to be gathered together in the quantities HE commanded. GOD had changed the animals during the curse. HE then explained something that was strange. “I will cause it to rain.” It had never rained before. There was no need because plants grew themselves, even after the Garden of Eden. GOD was confident that the plan would work.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD tell Moses about this conversation with Noah?
• Has GOD ever told you to do something and you did it, but was unsure that what HE told you to do would actually work?
• Are you willing to trust in the LORD will all your heart and not lean on your own understanding today?

End of the Line

End of the Line

Genesis 5: ³² And Noah was five hundred years old, and Noah begot Shem, Ham, and Japheth.

 

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Nine generations from Adam, Noah arrives on the scene. “And Noah” indicates to me, that this list is now complete and something else is about to happen. Thousands of years had passed and now the world was populated in two distinct ways, those who called to the LORD and those who did not. Satan thought he won by making all humans sin. But he did not know JESUS had a plan.

 

My Observations:

• GOD preserved the lineage of CHRIST by walking with people, never leaving them alone.
• Noah had three sons after he was five hundred years old.
• GOD’s plan of redemption included Noah’s family.

 

Seeing the plan of redemption makes the list of people more understandable. GOD seemed to want us to know why HE cursed creation in the first place. Not that HE needed to explain things to us. HE revealed the pride of Satan, his lies and deceit and the affects they had on mankind.

 

GOD graciously used the best of the worst to save humans and provide eternal life. When I say “worst” I mean, there is no human without sin, not one. Even our best efforts have sin in them.  We were born with it. But some will “cry out to the LORD” asking for help with the sin nature caused by Satan. Noah is the beginning of that story.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD end the genealogy dictated to Moses with Noah?
• Where are you with your walk with GOD?
• Are you being distracted into fear causing you to overthink GOD’s love for you today?

Unamazed

Unamazed

Revelation 17: When I saw her, I was completely amazed. ⁷ “Why are you amazed?” the angel asked me. “I will tell you the secret meaning of the woman and of the beast that carries her, the beast with seven heads and ten horns. ⁸ That beast was once alive, but lives no longer; it is about to come up from the abyss and will go off to be destroyed. The people living on earth whose names have not been written before the creation of the world in the book of the living, will all be amazed as they look at the beast. It was once alive; now it no longer lives, but it will reappear.

 

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Seeing the card trick performed in front of me, left me amazed. “How did you do that?” I asked. When I learned the secret, it didn’t seem so amazing, but I learned how to “amaze” other people.

 

• I was fooled into being amazed.
• I thought something amazing had happened, when it was only a trick.
• I learned the trick and wanted to “amaze” people.

 

John, the disciple JESUS loved, saw the future which held a great city that was amazing. He also caught a glimpse of the beast who was from Satan. This being would act like JESUS and die and be raised from the dead. Everyone whose names have not been written before the creation of the world in the book of the living, will be fooled and amazed.

 

My Observations:

• Satan will try to mimic GOD, even by having a being die and be raised from the dead.
• GOD’s people have been saved, even before they were created.
• People who believe in JESUS will not be fooled by a being who is raised from the dead, who curses GOD.

 

People are amazed easily. I mean, there are videos that show people throwing a ball through tiny holes from great distances. But when people find out the video is fake, they quickly become unamazed. Same with the beast. When the angel explained that he will “reappear” it was to explain that nothing can mimic the resurrection of JESUS.

 

The Savior was and is GOD who became a human to die for the sins of humanity. HE lived a sinless life and was blamed and murdered by HIS own creation. HE was raised from the dead, giving everlasting life to those who believe in HIM for salvation. I will not be fooled.

 

Challenge

• Why do you think the writer was amazed at seeing a futuristic city?
• Would you be amazed if someone were raised from the dead today?
• Will you seek wisdom that comes from GOD to understand who JESUS is, to believe in  HIM for salvation and to be guided by the HOLY SPIRIT today?

First of Many

First of Many

Revelation 14: Then I looked, and there was the Lamb standing on Mount Zion; with him were 144,000 people who have his name and his Father's name written on their foreheads. ² And I heard a voice from heaven that sounded like a roaring waterfall, like a loud peal of thunder. It sounded like the music made by musicians playing their harps. ³ The 144,000 people stood before the throne, the four living creatures, and the elders; they were singing a new song, which only they could learn. Of the whole human race they are the only ones who have been redeemed. ⁴ They are the men who have kept themselves pure by not having sexual relations with women; they are virgins. They follow the Lamb wherever he goes. They have been redeemed from the rest of the human race and are the first ones to be offered to God and to the Lamb. ⁵ They have never been known to tell lies; they are faultless.

 

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Standing on the playground, I waited to be picked. I expected to be picked last because the jocks would win and I was not very coordinated. To my surprise, I was picked early. I had the best game of my kickball career! I not only kicked the ball and got on base, but I caught one during the game!

 

• I was one of the first chosen.
• There was nothing special about me, but I was chosen.
• Out of the whole playground, I was chosen early, but many followed.

 

John, the disciple JESUS loved, saw JESUS somewhere else, standing on Mount Zion. He also saw those who had received a special seal when the sixth seal was opened. They were not the only ones saved, rather the first in a point in time, who kept themselves pure and followed CHRIST without following the world.

 

My Observations:

• The special woman gave birth to a special child through a chosen people.
• The chosen people are called the bride of JESUS.
• Being the first of many required 12,000 from each tribe, chosen by GOD.

 

Numbers and gender can trip people up after reading this passage. I mean, only 144,000 men being redeemed, can seem like everyone else in the world is useless. BUT GOD is revealing something different.

 

HE is the one who gave the words to a writer “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” Our cursed mind and eyes can question GOD’s sequence of events, missing out on the purity and not lying. I am glad JESUS redeemed all who believe in HIM.

 

Challenge

• How does the writer try to show how the group was “with” JESUS?
• Does any part of this passage trip you up?
• Will you look at GOD’s salvation of all humans differently and seek a great relationship with HIM today by believing in JESUS as the Savior?

Adopted Family

Adopted Family

1 Timothy 1: From Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by order of God our Savior and Christ Jesus our hope—

² To Timothy, my true son in the faith:

May God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord give you grace, mercy, and peace.

 

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Smelling the tasty food being prepared, my stomach growled. I kept peeking at the kitchen wondering what was cooking. “Would you like to stay for dinner?” were the words I had never heard before. “Can I?” I replied! “Sure, let’s ask your parents if it is okay.”

 

• I was excited to be able to hang out over someone else’s house.
• I did not know I was being asked into the family versus just getting a meal.
• I remember many fathers and mothers who adopted me as one of theirs.

 

Paul writes a letter to Timothy, calling him a son. Because of their relationship with JESUS, Paul brings Timothy into his family and provides words of encouragement. mentions his calling by the LORD and associates Timothy to that calling. He wished Timothy the best.

 

My Observations

• JESUS is my Savior and my hope.
• I am adopted into a vast family of believers because of GOD’s love for me.
• I can adopt people into the family and provide GOD’s grace, mercy and peace.

 

Family adoption is necessary. I mean, in this world of hurt, words of encouragement are few and far between. BUT GOD has a remedy. HE wants us to believe in HIS SON as the solution. HE guides each of us to be adopted into a family so we can adopt others into the family.

 

HE provides shelter to those who seek a home. HE adopts the lost, stands him or her up again and wipes away all tears. HE gives purpose so life can be abundant. I am truly grateful for my parents, adopted parents siblings and adopted siblings and all who are in my family, physical and spiritual.

 

Challenge

• What does the writer want?
• Have you ever been adopted into a family, even for a moment?
• Are you willing to bring someone into GOD’s family so he or she can experience GOD’s grace, mercy and peace today?

Believing the Delusion

Believing the Delusion

2 Thessalonians ⁵ Do you not remember that when I was still with you I told you these things? ⁶ And now you know what is restraining, that he may be revealed in his own time. ⁷ For the mystery of lawlessness is already at work; only He who now restrains will do so until He is taken out of the way. ⁸ And then the lawless one will be revealed, whom the Lord will consume with the breath of His mouth and destroy with the brightness of His coming. ⁹ The coming of the lawless one is according to the working of Satan, with all power, signs, and lying wonders, ¹⁰ and with all unrighteous deception among those who perish, because they did not receive the love of the truth, that they might be saved. ¹¹ And for this reason God will send them strong delusion, that they should believe the lie, ¹² that they all may be condemned who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness.

 

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Meeting with the new leader, I quickly understood where he stood. He wanted to use his work title to have wild parties at any occasion. I wanted to move up, so I turned my head to the drunken, lewd, insatiable comments to the staff. But then, the requests to make the parties happen left me with a paradox. Either I cave in or get another job.

 

• I really wanted to get a promotion.
• I thought that I could overlook something that was wrong, as long as I wasn’t participating.
• I figured I could remain unstained by “helping out” and ensuring the “bar and the babes” were available after the conventions (my part was to get the business suite someone else did the rest).

 

Paul mentions some very difficult realities revealed to him by the LORD. He spoke about the coming of the False Prophet that was part of the unholy trinity This being will oppose everything JESUS stands for. Unfortunately, there will be some who will believe in his lies and will perish due to “strong delusions.”

 

My Observations

• JESUS is the only Savior for me to put my trust in.
• Lies, deception and twisted thinking will be exposed by JESUS, so I must confess to HIM I need HIM.
• Receiving the “love of the truth” may be difficult for me, because sometimes my desires match what the world has to offer.

 

What is scary is GOD allowing people to believe in lies and deceit. I mean, can’t GOD just make everyone believe in HIM? HE doesn’t seem to work that way. In fact, HE created humans to have “free will” which is the only condition where love can exist. GOD doesn’t coerce anyone to love HIM, It has to be voluntary.

 

JESUS volunteered to be a sacrifice and save humanity from death. This was a very difficult thing to do and may have been very hurtful to the FATHER. BUT HE allowed it. HE wants all to believe but it has to be a choice. I gladly believe in JESUS and accept the truth of HIS love.

 

Challenge

• Who does the writer speak of when he says “GOD will send them strong delusion?”
• Is there something that you have done or believed in that later you realized was wrong?
• Will you examine your beliefs and see if they align to the salvation, love and truth of JESUS today?

No Chance Taken

No Chance Taken

Colossians 1: ¹³ He rescued us from the power of darkness and brought us safe into the kingdom of his dear Son, ¹⁴ by whom we are set free, that is, our sins are forgiven.

 

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Wanting to get “my” way, I decided to “try” GOD. I had too many calamities going on and wanted some relief. I decided to act “good” so I took an inventory of what I thought was “bad.” I reduced my sin to no avail. More things were going wrong. “What do YOU want from me?” was my complaint.

 

• I was trying to manipulate GOD by being good.
• I thought I was in control of GOD.
• I used flawed logic by thinking GOD reacts to what I do.

 

Paul continues to explain why we should be thankful for GOD. By belief in JESUS, the FATHER rescued us from the power of darkness, brought us safe into the kingdom of JESUS and set us free by forgiving us of all our sins. GOD did it all.

 

My Observations

• When I think I have let GOD down by my sins, I must remember, HE forgave me of all my sins.
• When I think I can manipulate GOD by being “good” I must remember JESUS is the only one who is “good.”
• When I think GOD doesn’t love me or HE doesn’t care about this particular situation, I must remember, HE rescued me before I was even born.

 

We all want to be in control of our lives. I mean, I try hard to be “good” so things will go well with me. But what happens when I thought I was good and bad things happen anyway? I believe it means “bad things happen anyway and I am still supposed to believe that everything was taken care of for my salvation.

 

GOD did not leave it up to me to save me. HE knew I would not choose HIM, rather I would run after what the world thinks is right. HE made a way for me to be saved by giving us HIS one and only SON. I am glad I am forgiven for all my sins, even the sin of trying to manipulate GOD.

 

Challenge

• What are the things the writer is pointing out that are worthy of praise?
• Do you have to “feel” forgiven or know you are forgiven?
• What does “safe into the kingdom” mean to you?
• Will you know that GOD loves you dearly and has not taken a chance on losing you today?

Restored After the Stew

Restored After the Stew

Ephesians 3: For this reason I, Paul, the prisoner of Christ Jesus for the sake of you Gentiles, pray to God. ² Surely you have heard that God in his grace has given me this work to do for your good. ³ God revealed his secret plan and made it known to me. (I have written briefly about this, ⁴ and if you will read what I have written, you can learn about my understanding of the secret of Christ.) ⁵ In past times human beings were not told this secret, but God has revealed it now by the Spirit to his holy apostles and prophets. ⁶ The secret is that by means of the gospel the Gentiles have a part with the Jews in God's blessings; they are members of the same body and share in the promise that God made through Christ Jesus.

 

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Standing on the sideline, I waited to be picked to be on one of the teams. I was not athletically inclined, so my draft pick was extremely low. I was finally chosen, but did not get a chance to play that time, but when I did, I actually got on base!

 

• At one time I felt left out.
• When I was chosen I still felt like I did not belong.
• When I participated, I did not know I could actually contribute.

 

Paul goes to enormous lengths to explain the Gentiles have a part in GOD’s promise. For centuries, the Gentiles heard of the GOD of Abraham, Isaac and “Jacob”, (the swindler who tricked his brother Esau out of his birthright for some stew). While Esau was careless, he did not know he would be the father of a group of people who were left out of the Promise.

 

My Observations

• GOD sees my mistakes and forgive me anyway.
• GOD wants me to be part of HIS family, even though I do not deserve it.
• GOD wants me to actively participate as much as those who are gifted.

 

Some people who follow JESUS can be intense or even a bit intimidating. I mean, he may give more or she may serve more or someone else may not sin as much. BUT GOD doesn’t look at the score when it comes to HIS Promise. HE wants all of HIS children back, period.

 

HE chose a group to spread HIS Gospel, and they held it to themselves. HE then allowed HIS SON to fulfil the Gospel and they killed HIM. HE raised JESUS from the dead and gave HIS promise to the descendants of Jacob and Esau. He restored the Gentiles without having them need to follow all the rules. I am glad JESUS was raised from the dead for me.

 

Challenge

• Can you feel the passion of the writer over those who were at once left out?
• Have you ever felt left out or less than another person?
• Will you accept JESUS as your Savior and be a part of a family who HE care for and guides daily, in spite of flaws?

 

Best Activity

Best Activity

2 Corinthians 3: ⁷ The Law was carved in letters on stone tablets, and God's glory appeared when it was given. Even though the brightness on Moses' face was fading, it was so strong that the people of Israel could not keep their eyes fixed on him. If the Law, which brings death when it is in force, came with such glory, ⁸ how much greater is the glory that belongs to the activity of the Spirit! ⁹ The system which brings condemnation was glorious; how much more glorious is the activity which brings salvation! ¹⁰ We may say that because of the far brighter glory now the glory that was so bright in the past is gone. ¹¹ For if there was glory in that which lasted for a while, how much more glory is there in that which lasts forever!

 

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Recess, music and art were my favorite activities in school at the time. I didn’t have to think, I could just “be.” Each was guarded carefully by a teacher to make sure it was a productive activity. For example, we played organized games during recess to keep from fighting one another. But then it came time for me to “learn.”  

 

• I downplayed the importance of certain activities.
• I looked at some activities as drudgery.
• I wanted to do the activities I felt most comfortable doing, but needed more.

 

Paul explains the glorious encounter Moses had with GOD. Moses received the Law carved in stone by GOD. Just by seeing a glimpse of GOD, his face was temporarily brightened to the point where people could not look at him. He brought the Law which created a lot of “concrete” activity people could follow and measure in others. But the real activity was to come later.

 

My Observations

• JESUS died for me and was raised from the dead so HE could send the HOLY SPIRIT to live in me.
• Belief in JESUS grants me salvation that lasts forever.
• The HOLY SPIRIT reminds me of the Law, which brings death, and interceded on my behalf when I break the Law.

 

JESUS is alive! This is the great news. HE did away with the Law and became salvation for all. But the Law was the highest honor at one point. Should I simply throw it away? No! GOD wants me to seek following HIM and provided a way to continue doing so. I do not have to “earn” my salvation through the Law, I can just be saved. It feels great!

 

But it doesn’t stop there. The HOLY SPIRIT leads me to live for HIM. HE leads me to peace when there is chaos. HE guides me to be still when I want to do activity to control the situation. The activity of the HOLY SPIRIT brings salvation. I am glad I can put my trust in JESUS who blessed me with the COMFORTER to guide me along every step.

 

Challenge

• What do you notice about the Law versus the SPIRIT?
• Do you think they conflict?
• What activity is your mind focused on?
• Will you be led by the SPIRIT and be focused on GOD’s kingdom versus the negativity of the world today?

Blessings

 

Blessings

Romans 11: ¹¹ I ask, then: When the Jews stumbled, did they fall to their ruin? By no means! Because they sinned, salvation has come to the Gentiles, to make the Jews jealous of them. ¹² The sin of the Jews brought rich blessings to the world, and their spiritual poverty brought rich blessings to the Gentiles. Then, how much greater the blessings will be when the complete number of Jews is included!

 

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“Want these?” was the question as I was handed two newish TV’s and some barely used tools. The office was closing and they had no need for the lobby televisions and the tools used for minor repairs. “Sure” I replied. I couldn’t believe they were going to throw these items away!

 

• Many times I have received valuable things people did not want.
• Many times I have been the benefactor of something valuable by those who did not see the value.
• Many times I have obtained what was unwanted and felt very blessed.

 

Paul explains that the Jews stumbled when they did not believe in JESUS was the Messiah they had been searching for. This sin saved the Gentiles which brought rich blessings on a group that was not looking to be blessed. This rich blessing of salvation is used to make those who overlooked the blessing, jealous. One day, the full count of all believers, Jews and Gentiles, will be counted.

 

• GOD has poured out HIS blessings on me.
• GOD has given me so much, that I cannot thank HIM enough.
• GOD has provided for me to overflowing, spiritually.

 

When is comes to blessings, GOD cannot be beat. HE has so much to give and cannot seem to hold it back. When one group rejects HIS blessings, another benefits. HE looks at me the same way. If I choose to refuse HIS blessings, HE will pour them out on someone else who was not even looking for them.

 

BUT GOD is also gracious. HE knows I may stumble and overlook HIS blessings when I look for the blessings to come in a way I expect. HE does not mind when I come back to HIM and ask “Can I be included in YOUR blessings?” when I have overlooked what I was supposed to thank HIM for in the first place. I am glad GOD’s grace is sufficient.

 

• Are you looking for GOD to bless you and HE already has?
• What rich blessings are you overlooking?
• Will you ask GOD to open your eyes to the extreme blessings HE has provided you so your heart may grow to overflowing today?