Fourth Commandment – Remember the Sabbath

Fourth Commandment – Remember the Sabbath

Exodus 20: ⁸ “Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. ⁹ Six days you shall labor and do all your work, ¹⁰ but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord your God. In it you shall do no work: you, nor your son, nor your daughter, nor your male servant, nor your female servant, nor your cattle, nor your stranger who is within your gates. ¹¹ For in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, and rested the seventh day. Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and hallowed it.

 

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GOD continues HIS commandments with “Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy.”

 

My Observations:

• GOD may have given this commandment because HE knew the people would forget to rest.
• GOD went into detail with HIS examples to ensure the people would understand what HE meant by rest.
• GOD does not get tired, but showed an example that HE even rested.

 

From what I gather from the commands given so far is GOD wants to spend time with us. HE did not create us for us to leave HIM alone. HE wants a day of rest that is spent with HIM, HIS creation and HIS people. You worked all week, enjoy one day.

 

GOD does not want us miserable and working seven days will place us in misery. HE did not make the Sabbath as a day to try harder to please HIM. The slave mindset was to make sure Pharaoh got what he wished, no matter the cost. The children of Israel were willing to work seven days a week to make things happen.

 

This attitude of working for results would leave GOD out of the equation of being the provider. A self-made pridefulness would eventually creep in, causing the worker to think more highly of self. GOD wants to be GOD. HE made us with the physical need for rest, but rest is also spiritual. We can reflect on the week and say our work is good because we are mimicking GOD.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD remind Moses about the need for everyone to rest?
• Are you trying to keep the Sabbath as a rule?
• Can you hear the love of GOD when HE tells you to rest and enjoy yourself once a week?

Manna Remembered

Manna Remembered

Exodus 16: ³¹ And the house of Israel called its name Manna. And it was like white coriander seed, and the taste of it was like wafers made with honey.

 

³² Then Moses said, “This is the thing which the Lord has commanded: ‘Fill an omer with it, to be kept for your generations, that they may see the bread with which I fed you in the wilderness, when I brought you out of the land of Egypt.’ ” ³³ And Moses said to Aaron, “Take a pot and put an omer of manna in it, and lay it up before the Lord, to be kept for your generations.” ³⁴ As the Lord commanded Moses, so Aaron laid it up before the Testimony, to be kept. ³⁵ And the children of Israel ate manna forty years, until they came to an inhabited land; they ate manna until they came to the border of the land of Canaan. ³⁶ Now an omer is one-tenth of an ephah.

 

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GOD provided food from heaven that humans could not understand. The name Manna means “What?” or “What is it?” Moses describes how it tasted. Then Moses obeyed what the LORD told him by laying up a jar full of manna. This sample lasted forty years.

 

My Observations:

• Moses shows us his writing style by mentioning how long they stayed in the desert, but it was done out of sequence.
• GOD preserved the manna in the jar so the children of Israel would remember HIS provision.
• GOD knew how long HE would keep the people out in the desert, but Moses did not know when he had Aaron collect a sample of manna.

 

This passage of scripture shows us that Moses wrote this book well after the events occurred. GOD had to remind Moses of the events and provide the details HE wanted us to remember. This is a great example of how GOD inspired writers of the Bible to record the exact detail that HE wanted to reveal.

 

The manna did not rot for the full forty years that the children of Israel were in the desert. The jar of manna would eventually end up in the ark of the covenant, otherwise known as the Testimony. Moses did not write in a linear chronological fashion, rather he mentions a little of the end of the journey before it happened. Manna was “bread” from heaven. JESUS is the “bread” of life that we need to remember as often as possible.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD remind Moses about the jar of manna?
• Has GOD taken you through something and you wrote down the event or kept something to remember what HE brought you through?
• How will you intentionally remember what GOD has done for you during the deliverance?

A Feast to Remember (Feast of Unleavened Bread)

A Feast to Remember (Feast of Unleavened Bread)

Exodus 13: ³ And Moses said to the people: “Remember this day in which you went out of Egypt, out of the house of bondage; for by strength of hand the Lord brought you out of this place. No leavened bread shall be eaten. ⁴ On this day you are going out, in the month Abib. ⁵ And it shall be, when the Lord brings you into the land of the Canaanites and the Hittites and the Amorites and the Hivites and the Jebusites, which He swore to your fathers to give you, a land flowing with milk and honey, that you shall keep this service in this month. ⁶ Seven days you shall eat unleavened bread, and on the seventh day there shall be a feast to the Lord. ⁷ Unleavened bread shall be eaten seven days. And no leavened bread shall be seen among you, nor shall leaven be seen among you in all your quarters. ⁸ And you shall tell your son in that day, saying, ‘This is done because of what the Lord did for me when I came up from Egypt.’ ⁹ It shall be as a sign to you on your hand and as a memorial between your eyes, that the Lord’s law may be in your mouth; for with a strong hand the Lord has brought you out of Egypt. ¹⁰ You shall therefore keep this ordinance in its season from year to year.

 

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After speaking to GOD, Moses spoke to the people. “Remember this day” was his statement as they were preparing to exit Egypt. Moses reiterated GOD’s promise and provided instructions to stay away from leaven for a week annually. On the seventh day there shall be a feast to the LORD.

 

My Observations:

• Humans forget GOD easily.
• GOD’s deliverance requires remembrance.
• GOD keeps HIS promises, no matter how different our expectations of HIM really are.

 

Imagine listening to Moses speak as everyone was packed up and chased out of Egypt. This speech would fill up even the most discouraged person. Moses had no idea how long it would take to get in the promised land. He was simply being obedient.

 

The Feast of Unleavened Bread was supposed to happen annually. I am sure the first year was exciting. But what about the second? How about the nineteenth? What about the thirty ninth celebration without being in the promised land? GOD kept HIS promise while dealing with mindsets.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD remind Moses about what Moses said to the people about the Feast of Unleavened Bread?
• Has GOD promised you something that has not come to fruition?
• Does your expectation of GOD need to be reset because HIS promise for you has not happened yet?

Tenth Plague: Death of Firstborn – Warning Part 3 (Feast of Unleavened Bread)

 

Tenth Plague: Death of Firstborn – Warning Part 3 (Feast of Unleavened Bread)

Exodus 12: ¹⁴ ‘So this day shall be to you a memorial; and you shall keep it as a feast to the Lord throughout your generations. You shall keep it as a feast by an everlasting ordinance. ¹⁵ Seven days you shall eat unleavened bread. On the first day you shall remove leaven from your houses. For whoever eats leavened bread from the first day until the seventh day, that person shall be cut off from Israel. ¹⁶ On the first day there shall be a holy convocation, and on the seventh day there shall be a holy convocation for you. No manner of work shall be done on them; but that which everyone must eat—that only may be prepared by you. ¹⁷ So you shall observe the Feast of Unleavened Bread, for on this same day I will have brought your armies out of the land of Egypt. Therefore you shall observe this day throughout your generations as an everlasting ordinance. ¹⁸ In the first month, on the fourteenth day of the month at evening, you shall eat unleavened bread, until the twenty-first day of the month at evening. ¹⁹ For seven days no leaven shall be found in your houses, since whoever eats what is leavened, that same person shall be cut off from the congregation of Israel, whether he is a stranger or a native of the land. ²⁰ You shall eat nothing leavened; in all your dwellings you shall eat unleavened bread.’ ”

 

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GOD continues with HIS instructions to Moses to give to the children of Israel. HE gives precise instructions regarding the Passover Feast of Unleavened Bread.

 

My Observations:

• GOD instituted the Feast of Unleavened Bread for the Israelites to follow until sin is abolished.
• GOD wanted the people to celebrate the start and finish of this week.
• GOD seems to equate leaven or yeast with false doctrine and the poisonous mindset of religious leaders who wanted followers versus making followers of GOD.

 

Ever since the garden of Edan, GOD was fighting a mindset that there is no need for HIM or no need to place faith in HIM. Even before religious leaders were established, GOD put together an annual feast that would help the leaders recognize that GOD needs to be followed, not man. Unfortunately, religious leaders focused people on activity versus heartfelt belief, causing people to think they could earn GOD.

 

JESUS would later say, “Take heed and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and the Sadducees.” Their doctrine did not point to JESUS as the Messiah; rather, they were focused on building selfish kingdoms, misusing HIS name. For seven days, GOD wanted purity and to focus on HIM with no manipulation from human mindsets.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD remind Moses about HIS institution of the Feast of Unleavened Bread?
• Have you wanted something so badly, that you believed you could manipulate GOD by following a religious leader?
• Can you focus your mindset on GOD as your leader versus your favorite religious or political leader?

People Reminder

 

People Reminder

Hebrews 13: Keep on loving one another as Christians. ² Remember to welcome strangers in your homes. There were some who did that and welcomed angels without knowing it. ³ Remember those who are in prison, as though you were in prison with them. Remember those who are suffering, as though you were suffering as they are.

 

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“Remember where you came from” was a suggestion given to me from a person who left his neighborhood in pursuit of “success.” I was trying to escape the neighborhood I grew up in, never to look back. But after a number of years, I looked at my old neighborhood with a different view.

 

• I cared only about myself when I left.
• I could not wait to leave and not help anyone else.
• I could not understand why it was important to help those who never once thought about me or helped me.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, gives some great advice. He mentions how to treat people. He may have given this advice to help people remember those who are in need.

 

My Observations:

• It is easy for me to forget that I was placed here for other people.
• It is easy for me to forget that other people have needs beyond mine.
• It is easy for me to forget that perhaps GOD may want me to serve others, even when it is inconvenient.

 

Helping people is sometimes hard. I mean, people need help when I need help. They may even need the same resources I need and desire. GOD loves when I remember to serve people and HE provides something extra when I am willing to serve strangers. HE may test my resolve of helping others by sending an angel I am not aware of.

 

This selfless act may translate to the angel reporting back to GOD what has been done. Not that GOD does not know anyway. Each selfless act turns into a reward in heaven that cannot be stolen and will never tarnish. I am glad HE gives me people to remember.

 

Challenge

• Do you hear empathy from the writer?
• Do you like being remembered or recognized by people?
• Will you remember to serve strangers, shut in, prisoners and people who are suffering today?

Necessary Reminder

Necessary Reminder

Hebrews 10: The Jewish Law is not a full and faithful model of the real things; it is only a faint outline of the good things to come. The same sacrifices are offered forever, year after year. How can the Law, then, by means of these sacrifices make perfect the people who come to God? ² If the people worshiping God had really been purified from their sins, they would not feel guilty of sin any more, and all sacrifices would stop. ³ As it is, however, the sacrifices serve year after year to remind people of their sins. ⁴ For the blood of bulls and goats can never take away sins.

 

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After realizing my life needed to change, I stopped hanging around certain “friends.” I also stopped doing some things that I felt were detrimental to my relationship with GOD. Things got much better. I attributed it to “my” cleansing efforts and felt others needed to do the same.

 

• I was “proud” of myself for turning “my” life around.
• I thought I had “arrived” at being holy.
• I judged those who were still struggling with sins “I” had overcome.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, addressed piety and self-pride. While the Law was extremely useful, it is not the “full and faithful model of the real things.” In fact, the Law was to be used to show how futile our efforts are to be clean. Traditions, and following the rules, would never ever cleanse sin.

 

My Observations:

• My efforts to be clean are similar to a full diaper.
• Only JESUS can make me clean because my thoughts are never on HIM.
• When I remember what JESUS did, I am also reminded that I need HIM daily.

 

Sin doesn’t go away because I act good from time to time. I mean, if I think my “good” efforts merit GOD doing something different, I am in a world of trouble. HE says “Your righteousness are like filthy rags.” I can never do or say anything that is “clean” to HIM because the Law is not the “real thing.”

 

JESUS is the real thing. HE took away my sin and declared me holy. Only through HIM am I seen as clean. HE makes my pitiful efforts righteous and enhances my words to draw people to HIM. I am glad JESUS did it all so I do not have to think I need to save the world.

 

Challenge

• What does the writer mean by “faint outline?”
• Have you ever been proud of yourself for not doing the same sin on a particular day?
• Will you stop looking at your own efforts to please GOD and know HE loves you dearly as much as HE can and HE is willing to live inside you with full love today?

Forever Remembered

Forever Remembered

Hebrews 7: This Melchizedek was king of Salem and a priest of the Most High God. As Abraham was coming back from the battle in which he defeated the four kings, Melchizedek met him and blessed him, ² and Abraham gave him one tenth of all he had taken. (The first meaning of Melchizedek's name is “King of Righteousness”; and because he was king of Salem, his name also means “King of Peace.”) ³ There is no record of Melchizedek's father or mother or of any of his ancestors; no record of his birth or of his death. He is like the Son of God; he remains a priest forever.

 

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Encountering a stranger, I remember a guy wearing sunglasses, driving an expensive sports car, zipping in front of people and giving them “the finger” as he passed each. This enraged me, but I could not catch him.

 

• I remember how his actions affected me.
• I did not stop to think how my actions affect other people.
• I realized later that I want to be remembered differently than that.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, explains Melchizedek, who was a king and a high priest. No one knew when he was bon or when he died. He represents how JESUS has no beginning or end. Melchizedek is remembered for his goodness.

 

My Observations:

• Every action I do is either for GOD’s kingdom or against it.
• I have the opportunity to speak about GOD or to do harm to myself and others.
• I can choose what I want people to remember me by.

 

JESUS said “Remember ME.” This mean remember HIS goodness and HIS love. HE faced insurmountable odds by not sinning and at the same time, healing a multitude of people. HIS deeds and words are remembered forever. But what about you and me? GOD has us too.

 

If I give a child a cup of cool water to drink, GOD remember my kindness and loves it! HE enjoys the smallest of service I perform, even if it is just a smile. GOD sees anything I do for HIM and remembers it forever. I am glad GOD cares for you and me.

 

Challenge

• According to the writer, what is Melchizedek remembered by?
• Have you ever wanted to “act out” in public, only to regret what people will remember you by?
• Will you not worry about your reputation and simply serve the way GOD wants you to serve by encouraging someone today?

Why Remember?

Why Remember?

! Corinthians 11: ²³ For I received from the Lord the teaching that I passed on to you: that the Lord Jesus, on the night he was betrayed, took a piece of bread, ²⁴ gave thanks to God, broke it, and said, “This is my body, which is for you. Do this in memory of me.” ²⁵ In the same way, after the supper he took the cup and said, “This cup is God's new covenant, sealed with my blood. Whenever you drink it, do so in memory of me.”

 

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Hurt by the circumstance, I had forgotten all the good times when laughter ensued from the house. Bitter attacks and missing people left five individuals wounded and seemingly, forever separated. The enemy had devoured us, or so he thought.

 

• There have been circumstances in my life that attempted to erase the good that happened.
• There have been situations in my life that tried to remove the great memories that happened.
• There have been obstacles, barriers and thieves, that tried to steal the wonderful things that happened.

 

Paul addresses divisiveness by giving the training he received directly from JESUS. “Remember ME.” Paul mentions the teaching of JESUS as HE spoke to HIS disciples before HE was crucified. JESUS knew times would get difficult and Satan would seek to divide by turning up pride, hidden lies and hardened hearts. HE wanted them to remember what HE had overcome.

 

My Observation

• JESUS wants me to remember that HE overcame all my sins, when I sin.
• JESUS wants me to remember that HE loved me more than any human could ever love me.
• JESUS wants me to remember that HE sent the HOLY SPIRIT to comfort me and I am never alone regardless of how things may seem.

 

Remembering JESUS is extremely important. I mean, if I think “I” did things on my own, then pride would creep in. Remembering JESUS controls pride. If I dwell on the hurt and the pain, I forget that HE felt pain and hurt, just for me. When I remember that JESUS died and was raised from the dead, my hurt and pain stings less.

 

When I feel all alone, I remember that JESUS sent the HOLY SPIRIT to comfort me. HE begs for forgiveness of my sins and provides the right words when I need them. Remembering the good helps heal my wounds.

 

Challenge

• What good things do you remember that the enemy is trying to steal from you?
• Do you think remaining stuck on the circumstance, even for years, will help you heal from wounds?
• Will you remember the good and especially what JESUS did for you so the HOLY SPIRIT can provide the comfort you seek today?

Remember the Details

Remember the Details

Acts 21: ¹⁷ When we arrived at Jerusalem, the brothers and sisters received us warmly. ¹⁸ The next day Paul and the rest of us went to see James, and all the elders were present. ¹⁹ Paul greeted them and reported in detail what God had done among the Gentiles through his ministry.

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After the vacation, I had lots to tell. I described the food, the service and entertainment in picture perfect detail. One description made me remember another fond memory and another. It was a great experience that I gladly shared with anyone who would listen.

There were times when I had plenty to say about something I enjoyed.

There were times when I remembered every detail of the experience.

There were times when I told strangers about the details so they could experience the same.

Paul was now in Jerusalem. After being met by a warm greeting, he told the details of what GOD had done on HIS travels. He must have mentioned the healing of many people and how GOD made a way for him to escape death over and over. He paved a way for other races to hear about JESUS.

GOD wants me to live my life for HIS purpose.

GOD wants me to make memories by serving many people.

GOD wants me to share my memories of how HE has worked in my life.

Sharing details of what GOD has done and is doing is highly important to HIM. I mean, HE wants people to be encouraged that they can get out of their trouble and be rewarded just by giving someone a drink of water in JESUS name. My experiences grow me up and sometimes help others do the same. I am glad the HOLY SPIRIT helps me remember the details.

What has GOD done in your life?

Do you remember an important story you need to share?

Will you write down the details or tell them to someone so they can be encouraged by what GOD is doing in your life today?

Then I Remembered

Then I Remembered

Acts 11: ¹³ And he told us how he had seen an angel standing in his house, who said to him, ‘Send men to Joppa, and call for Simon whose surname is Peter, ¹⁴ who will tell you words by which you and all your household will be saved.’ ¹⁵ And as I began to speak, the Holy Spirit fell upon them, as upon us at the beginning. ¹⁶ Then I remembered the word of the Lord, how He said, ‘John indeed baptized with water, but you shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit.’ ¹⁷ If therefore God gave them the same gift as He gave us when we believed on the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I that I could withstand God?”

¹⁸ When they heard these things they became silent; and they glorified God, saying, “Then God has also granted to the Gentiles repentance to life.”

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Trying to cross the pool seemed like a daunting task but it was required for the grade. As I jumped in, things seemed to be okay, but halfway through, I started losing momentum. Then I remembered what the instructor said about relaxing, turning my head face upwards and breathing through my mouth each stroke. I made it to the other side.

• There were some things I had to learn in order to apply it.
• There were some things that were taught to me that did not come in handy until I applied it.
• There were some lessons I discounted until I really needed them.

Peter continued explaining why he was speaking to another race about JESUS. He wrapped up the amazing recount of events with something that happened in common with those who questioned him. He said “Then I remembered the word of the LORD.”

• GOD teaches me so I can have the right words at the right time.
• GOD teaches me so I can have the right behavior at the tight time.
• GOD teaches me so I can believe, apply and teach what HE wants me to teach.

The HOLY SPIRIT brings things to my remembrance. When I read about GOD, the HOLY SPIRIT places the words in my heart. Someone else comes along to water the seed planted in my heart. The seed grows into a tiny bit of faith, or mercy or love, depending on the seed.

Eventually I am faced with a situation where I need to give someone a word of encouragement. Then I remember what GOD has planted in my heart from the lesson HE taught me. I am grateful for the HOLY SPIRIT, who leads and guides me.

• Are you trying to live life without learning who GOD really is?
• Are you busy learning everything else but not spending time learning about the ONE who cares about you?
• Will you take some time to learn about JESUS and what HE has done for you today?

Roots

Roots

John 9: ³⁵ Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and when He had found him, He said to him, “Do you believe in the Son of God?”

³⁶ He answered and said, “Who is He, Lord, that I may believe in Him?”

³⁷ And Jesus said to him, “You have both seen Him and it is He who is talking with you.”

³⁸ Then he said, “Lord, I believe!” And he worshiped Him.

³⁹ And Jesus said, “For judgment I have come into this world, that those who do not see may see, and that those who see may be made blind.”

⁴⁰ Then some of the Pharisees who were with Him heard these words, and said to Him, “Are we blind also?”

⁴¹ Jesus said to them, “If you were blind, you would have no sin; but now you say, ‘We see.’ Therefore your sin remains.

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After the third promotion I could see the top getting a bit closer. Nervous about the trail, I resorted to listening to lines from some cheesy movie. “You are the master” are the words I remembered, to give me confidence. “You can do this!” I went in and got the promotion. I was invincible! Or so I thought.

• There were times when I had a lot of “self-confidence.”
• There were times when I believed in myself and “my” abilities.
• There were times when I thought “I” accomplished a lot.

JESUS reveals HE is GOD to the man HE healed of blindness. HE then asks “Do you believe in the SON of GOD?” The man says “Yes!” The church leaders, who were very confident in their titles, asked “Are we blind?” They knew the Bible thoroughly and mentioned GOD regularly. They could not “see” their blindness.

• GOD wants me to only have confidence in HIS abilities.
• GOD wants me place my trust in HIS abilities, motives and methods.
• GOD wants me to admit I am blind and need HIM every second of every day.

Forgetting that GOD raised me up from very meager roots led to my blindness. I foolishly believed that it was “my” talents that raised me up to where I got to. My ego was deflated when it was all taken away. GOD showed me just how blind I had gotten. I forgot to give HIM credit for the little things as well as the large.

GOD is in control of everything, no matter what humans think. All trust needs to be placed in JESUS for only HE knows the true plan. GOD is my master, in HIM I place my trust.

• Are you over confident in your abilities?
• Do you suffer from lack of confidence because you think you lack abilities?
• Will you remember where you came from and believe GOD made you exactly as HE wanted so you can serve HIM today?

Have to be told

Luke 22: ¹⁴ When the hour came, Jesus and his apostles reclined at the table. ¹⁵ And he said to them, ‘I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer. ¹⁶ For I tell you, I will not eat it again until it finds fulfilment in the kingdom of God.’

¹⁷ After taking the cup, he gave thanks and said, ‘Take this and divide it among you. ¹⁸ For I tell you I will not drink again from the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes.’

¹⁹ And he took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, ‘This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me.’

²⁰ In the same way, after the supper he took the cup, saying, ‘This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you.

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“An apple?” I questioned in my mind. I mean I wanted some doughnuts or something good to eat and this “old” person hands me some fruit. “Say thank you” another adult commanded me. “Why should I be thankful?” I questioned in my head. Not too long after, the lady passed away.

• Many times I had to be told to be thankful.
• Many times I had to be pointed in the direction of what someone had done for me.
• Many times I had to have my eyes open to the blessings that have been poured out on me.

JESUS tells HIS disciples something they could not understand. HE thanked the FATHER then explains that HE would be murdered for them so please remember HIM when you eat. HE then said “This cup is the new covenant in MY blood, which is poured out for you.”

• GOD had to tell me to be thankful otherwise I would not see HIS blessings.
• GOD had to tell me what HE has done for me otherwise I would be full of complaints.
• GOD had to tell me HE rescued me otherwise I would think that I am responsible for all my blessings.

“Remember ME” is what JESUS tells me when I try to manipulate GOD into giving me what I want. I mean HE sees when I am trying to be good so I can ask for something I want to have. During those times, HE wants me to remember HIM and what HE did for me.

When I am doubtful of HIS love, “Remember ME”. When I am feeling low “Remember ME.” When I have just about had enough “Remember ME.” JESUS doesn’t give me elaborate instructions to build a temple with my bare hands. HE simply wants me to remember HIM.

• Have you forgotten what GOD has done for you?
• Do you think you deserve more than you have?
• Will you praise JESUS today and remember what HE has don for you?

Keep Calling

Mark 10: ⁴⁶ Now they came to Jericho. As He went out of Jericho with His disciples and a great multitude, blind Bartimaeus, the son of Timaeus, sat by the road begging. ⁴⁷ And when he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to cry out and say, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!”

⁴⁸ Then many warned him to be quiet; but he cried out all the more, “Son of David, have mercy on me!”

⁴⁹ So Jesus stood still and commanded him to be called.

Then they called the blind man, saying to him, “Be of good cheer. Rise, He is calling you.”

⁵⁰ And throwing aside his garment, he rose and came to Jesus.

⁵¹ So Jesus answered and said to him, “What do you want Me to do for you?”

The blind man said to Him, “Rabboni, that I may receive my sight.”

⁵² Then Jesus said to him, “Go your way; your faith has made you well.”And immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus on the road.

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“Why don’t you just give up” one professor told me. I had a failing grade point average and a lot of classes ahead of me. With no guidance, I felt defeated.

• Sometimes I feel like giving up.
• Sometimes it looks as if problems will never stop.
• Sometimes it seems like there is no solution and on top of problems, people try to kick me when I am down.

With no regard of Bartimaeus’s blindness, the crowd tried to silence him as he cried out to JESUS. Bartimaeus knew this was possibly his only chance. How often would JESUS travel to Jericho? How often would JESUS be within ear shot of Bartimaeus? He probably screamed until he was horse and JESUS heard him.

• JESUS wants me to pursue HIM with conviction.
• JESUS desires that I scream for HIM when things look bleak.
• JESUS hears me when I keep calling to HIM in spite of my thinking.

“Do not be discouraged” is not a conviction from GOD; rather it is HIS cry out to me to tell me HE loves me. GOD wants to remove my spiritual blindness; all I have to do is cry out to HIM.

• Are you deserving of something?
• Are you mad at GOD about your situation?
• Can you call out to GOD today and ask HIM to remove your spiritual blindness?

Betrayal Remembrance Dinner

Matthew 26: ²⁰ When evening came, Jesus was reclining at the table with the Twelve.²¹ And while they were eating, he said, “Truly I tell you, one of you will betray me.”

²² They were very sad and began to say to him one after the other, “Surely you don’t mean me, Lord?”

²³ Jesus replied, “The one who has dipped his hand into the bowl with me will betray me. ²⁴ The Son of Man will go just as it is written about him. But woe to that man who betrays the Son of Man! It would be better for him if he had not been born.”

²⁵ Then Judas, the one who would betray him, said, “Surely you don’t mean me, Rabbi?”

Jesus answered, “You have said so.”

²⁶ While they were eating, Jesus took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take and eat; this is my body.”

²⁷ Then he took a cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you. ²⁸ This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. ²⁹ I tell you, I will not drink from this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father’s kingdom.”

³⁰ When they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives.

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“Tell us who did it” were the calming words of the leaders. I felt comfortable enough to express my opinion so I told on the person. Later I was told my services were no longer needed. It turned out that the leaders needed me to be a fall guy to expose the problem while they maintained their political status. I was betrayed!

• Betrayal never feels good to me.
• Betrayal never brings good to anyone involved.
• Betrayal may seem like a good solution temporarily, but in the end the betrayer will pay.

Amazingly JESUS ate with HIS betrayer and did not stop him. JESUS continued to eat the Passover meal with a special purpose in mind. HE was performing the law of eating the Passover meal while giving humanity a new covenant, namely HIS forgiveness.

• JESUS taught me to give thanks before any meal in remembrance of HIM.
• JESUS taught me to remember HIS blood was shed for me.
• JESUS taught me to sing after celebrating what HE has done for me.

From betrayal to celebration, JESUS kept focus on HIS purpose. HE watched over HIS disciples all the way to the end. JESUS teaches me of HIS new covenant of forgiveness. I am truly grateful.

• Have you been betrayed?
• Do you feel dejected?
• Can you turn your life to JESUS who was betrayed by HIS own creation?

Looking for Satisfaction

Hosea 13: ⁴ “But I have been the Lord your God
    ever since you came out of Egypt.
You shall acknowledge no God but me,
    no Savior except me.
⁵ I cared for you in the wilderness,
    in the land of burning heat.
⁶ When I fed them, they were satisfied;
    when they were satisfied, they became proud;
    then they forgot me.

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Struggling to pay bills I cringed when the phone rang knowing it was a credit collector calling. “LORD please help me!” I finally cried out as I began my journey back to following HIM. Eventually I made enough to pay off all my debt and soon I had a decent amount in the bank and investments. “Will you help serve the poor?” was the question posed to me at church. “Not this time, I have to prepare for work, I don’t have time.”

• Once I struggled and cried out to GOD.
• Once I asked GOD if HE even cared.
• Once I begged HIM to take me out of a miserable situation only to be satisfied and forget HIM.

Satisfaction is a problem with me. I mean when I get comfortable in a situation it seems like my prayer goes out the window. In fact complaints crept in where there was once praise. “You mean I have to hear the elevator next to my king suite in this five star hotel?” My mindset had forgotten my MAKER. What should I do?

• GOD says to me “Acknowledge no GOD but ME.”
• GOD says to me “Acknowledge no savior except ME.”
• GOD says to me “Remember ME as long as you live.”

Thankfulness and gratitude should pour from my lips constantly. I should thank GOD for every moment HE allows me to breathe on this planet. Each day HE gives me an opportunity to serve HIM, some days I do and some days I don’t. HE forgives me and I should offer HIM praise instead of complaints. GOD is my satisfaction!

• Are you searching for comfort?
• Do you want satisfaction?
• Can you keep praise on your lips instead of complaints?
• Will you add thankfulness and gratitude to your heart for where GOD has you right now?

Remembering is Important

Isaiah 22: ¹⁰ You counted the buildings in Jerusalem
    and tore down houses to strengthen the wall.
¹¹ You built a reservoir between the two walls
    for the water of the Old Pool,
but you did not look to the One who made it,
    or have regard for the One who planned it long ago.

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Night after night I worked hard on the project. When I finished I was invited to attend the convention. “My” project was such a success that they gave me a reward and a huge bonus. “I” did it, I thought to myself.

• Sometimes I think I am the one who accomplishes things.
• Sometimes I think I am the one who deserves accolades.
• Sometimes I think I am the captain of my fate, master of my soul.

When I put in a tremendous amount of effort I tend to forget GOD. I mean I know HE is there, yet I forget to turn and acknowledge HIS involvement.

• GOD wants me to acknowledge HIS presence every step of the way.
• GOD wants me to see HIS miracles daily so HE can do marvelous works around me and possibly through me.
• GOD wants me to thank HIM for the tiniest things this way I will be appreciative of larger things.

Many times I thought “I” was the one who deserved the pat on the back, so I poked my chest out. BUT GOD was gracious enough to take the back seat for a while. HE was patient with me and made me realize that I need HIM not the other way around. HE should get all the accolades for every accomplishment I get. GOD is awesome!

• Do you think “you” accomplished what you accomplished?
• Do you think “you” are being held back by someone?
• Can you stop and acknowledge GOD in your plans today?
• Will you turn and thank HIM for all HE has done in your life?

Playing See-Saw is Dangerous

Psalm 106: ⁹ He rebuked the Red Sea, and it dried up;
    he led them through the depths as through a desert.
¹⁰ He saved them from the hand of the foe;
    from the hand of the enemy he redeemed them.
¹¹ The waters covered their adversaries;
    not one of them survived.
¹² Then they believed his promises
    and sang his praise.

¹³ But they soon forgot what he had done
    and did not wait for his plan to unfold.
¹⁴ In the desert they gave in to their craving;
    in the wilderness they put God to the test.

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“Please, please, please let me pass this test” was my cry. When I got my results back, not only had I passed, I got a very high grade! I rejoiced and ran around like a crazy person! The very next semester I returned back to my habits of playing cards all night with the other people who should have been studying! I wound up on probation again.

• Sometimes I cry out only when I’m in danger.
• Sometimes I scream for help when I face problems.
• Sometimes I state my situation when things aren’t going so well.

Out of danger, out of mind was how I treated GOD. I mean HE’s there when I need HIM and when things are going well, I don’t need HIM as much, right? Wrong!

• I need GOD more when things are “going well” because that’s when I am tempted to follow my own ways.
• I need GOD more after the trial than during because I will be tempted to relax and possibly run away from HIM.
• I need GOD more during prosperous times because it is harder for the rich to enter the kingdom of heaven than a camel going through the eye of a needle.

Looking back I can see times in which I let GOD slide out of my life, little by little, during prosperity. I wasn’t doing “huge” sins, but I wasn’t worshiping HIM or thanking HIM the way I do when I’m in a trial. In fact when the crowd of complainers gathered, I was in the middle, joining in on the rants. I thought sin could be measured so I stayed away from “big” sin and held onto, what I would call, “little” sins.

GOD doesn’t like a “see-saw” relationship with me. Up one day and down the next. GOD wants me to remain even keel with HIM and worship HIM daily in spite of what is going on. Problems or prosperity, GOD deserves my praise!

• Are you wondering why your trial is so long?
• Is there something that needs to change in your life that GOD is preparing you for?
• Are you letting go of GOD during prosperous times and returning to your old ways?
• Will you practice praising GOD today or will you die in the desert by GOD’s hand?

Never Forgotten

Psalm 105: ⁴² For he remembered his holy promise
    given to his servant Abraham.
⁴³ He brought out his people with rejoicing,
    his chosen ones with shouts of joy;
⁴⁴ he gave them the lands of the nations,
    and they fell heir to what others had toiled for—
⁴⁵ that they might keep his precepts
    and observe his laws.

Praise the Lord.

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Crisp presentation, well thought out numbers and counter measures to thwart any attack made me feel confident that I could face the crowd. After the presentation I got feedback that I had “hit a homerun.” After doing this a while I thought to myself, “What would this company do without me?” I mean, it probably would fail. The company had its fortieth anniversary and I was in my late thirties believing they could never do without me.

• Sometimes I think I did something to get myself to where I got.
• Sometimes I think my abilities are what elevates me or tears me down.
• Sometimes I think I cannot be replaced and my expertise is necessary for success.

It’s amazing how little I recognize GOD’s hand in things. If something great happens, then it was my abilities and knowledge that got me there. If something bad happens then I question GOD and HIS poor decision making.  GOD wants me to think differently.

• GOD wants me to remember HE keeps all of HIS promises which include my life.
• GOD wants me to look back at what HE has done in my life and others and rejoice.
• GOD wants me to keep HIS precepts and observe HIS laws because of these great memories.

GOD wants me to “remember.” Each time I have a meal I can remember what HIS SON did for me, and I get hungry a lot! I can go to church and take communion which is more ceremonial and formal, remembering what GOD has done for others and what HE is doing for me. GOD raises me to places where others have toiled and made me heir. I praise the LORD!

• Are you tired of where you are?
• Do you think GOD is foolish?
• Can you let go of the shore and flow down the river HE has for you?
• Will you remember what HE has done for you and others and give HIM even the tiniest praise today?

Keep Calling

Psalm 99: ⁶ Moses and Aaron were among his priests,
    Samuel was among those who called on his name;
they called on the Lord
    and he answered them.
⁷ He spoke to them from the pillar of cloud;
    they kept his statutes and the decrees he gave them.

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Sitting on the beach all I could think about was “What time is my spa appointment.” I had never been to a spa but this trip was a perk to the job and someone had to go! After a day of relaxation, a couple invited us out. We danced until the cows came home.

• In times of plenty, I sometimes forget about GOD.
• In times of plenty, I do not feel the need to cry out to GOD.
• In times of plenty, I “think” I have all I need and my shopping bag does not include GOD.

All of my thoughts were on the next position so I could get even bigger perks. As I climbed higher and higher, I did not notice GOD dissipating out of my life. I mean, I had plenty so GOD must have been there, right? Well sort of.

• GOD wants me to remember HIM in the time of need as well as the time of plenty.
• GOD wants me to place my thoughts on HIM and praise HIM evenly, through trouble and plenty.
• GOD wants me to seek HIS face constantly and not be distracted by trouble or wealth.

Vacations are great; BUT GOD wants me to take HIM with me wherever I go. HE doesn’t want me to get away from HIM in times of plenty and cry out to HIM only when I need HIM. HE wants me to be a full fan of HIM, not just a fair weather fan. My praise should be as equal as my requests. My excitement should be as equal as my doubt. GOD wants me and I call to HIM daily!

• Have you forgotten GOD?
• Are you on vacation and feel you can drop GOD off?
• Will you remember GOD during times of plenty?

Ingredients for Deliverance

Psalm 78: ¹¹ They forgot what he had done,
    the wonders he had shown them.
¹² He did miracles in the sight of their ancestors
    in the land of Egypt, in the region of Zoan.
¹³ He divided the sea and led them through;
    he made the water stand up like a wall.
¹⁴ He guided them with the cloud by day
    and with light from the fire all night.
¹⁵ He split the rocks in the wilderness
    and gave them water as abundant as the seas;
¹⁶ he brought streams out of a rocky crag
    and made water flow down like rivers.

¹⁷ But they continued to sin against him,
    rebelling in the wilderness against the Most High.
¹⁸ They willfully put God to the test
    by demanding the food they craved.
¹⁹ They spoke against God;
    they said, “Can God really
    spread a table in the wilderness?
²⁰ True, he struck the rock,
    and water gushed out,
    streams flowed abundantly,
but can he also give us bread?
    Can he supply meat for his people?”
²¹ When the Lord heard them, he was furious;
    his fire broke out against Jacob,
    and his wrath rose against Israel,
²² for they did not believe in God
    or trust in his deliverance.

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As I pondered “GOD’s deliverance” I noticed that when I get nervous or think GOD isn’t moving fast enough, I start telling HIM what to do. I mean I tell HIM how much, when and sometimes why. BUT GOD wants me to think differently.

• GOD wants me to understand the trial so I can go in a different direction.
• GOD wants me to hold onto HIS ways so I can follow HIS lead.
• GOD wants me to remember HIS deliverance from the past and trust in HIS deliverance now.

“Grow up” is GOD’s calling to me. HE wants me to stop remaining feeble and hold on to GOD, who has all the power!. Instead of fretting through a trial, HE simply wants me to remember.

• Have you lost your trust in GOD?
• Do you tell HIM what you need and when you need it constantly?
• Can you ask HIM for forgiveness and look back to remember HIS deliverance?
• Will you add trust to your day and let GOD bless you?