First Two Commandments – No gods, No Idols

First Two Commandments – No gods, No Idols

Exodus 19: And God spoke all these words, saying:

 

² “I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage.

 

³ “You shall have no other gods before Me.

 

⁴ “You shall not make for yourself a carved image—any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth; ⁵ you shall not bow down to them nor serve them. For I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children to the third and fourth generations of those who hate Me, ⁶ but showing mercy to thousands, to those who love Me and keep My commandments.

 

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Moses made it back to the people to warn them about staying away from the mountain, otherwise they would be killed. When Moses got back, GOD spoke.

 

My Observations:

• GOD begins the Ten Commandments by revealing how HE wants to relate to the people.
• GOD let’s the people know that it was no coincidence that they were delivered out of Egypt.
• GOD made it clear that he sees those who hate HIM and who make idols that mock HIS position and power.

 

These first two commandments are extremely important to GOD. HE could not stan it when Pharaoh was revered as a god, and HE does not like it when we raise politicians or other celebrities to godlike status.

 

GOD does explain that HE has mercy on those who love HIM and keep HIS commandments. After 430 years, the children of Israel needed to hear the mindset that GOD wanted them to take to heart. They had believed that a human could be a god. They also believed in idols. GOD made it clear that gods and idols were not to ever be worshipped. HE and HE alone is GOD.

HE said “I AM the LORD your GOD,” when HE began HIS speech.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD remind Moses that HE started off the Ten Commandments by telling the people about no gods and no idols?
• Have you made a politician or cither celebrity a god by speaking about him or her more than JESUS?
• Is GOD higher than any politician, celebrity or local leader to you so your actions can be guided by HIM?

Response to Death of Firstborn – Surrender (Part 1)

Response to Death of Firstborn – Surrender (Part 1)

Exodus 12: ³¹ Then he called for Moses and Aaron by night, and said, “Rise, go out from among my people, both you and the children of Israel. And go, serve the Lord as you have said. ³² Also take your flocks and your herds, as you have said, and be gone; and bless me also.”

³³ And the Egyptians urged the people, that they might send them out of the land in haste. For they said, “We shall all be dead.” ³⁴ So the people took their dough before it was leavened, having their kneading bowls bound up in their clothes on their shoulders. ³⁵ Now the children of Israel had done according to the word of Moses, and they had asked from the Egyptians articles of silver, articles of gold, and clothing. ³⁶ And the Lord had given the people favor in the sight of the Egyptians, so that they granted them what they requested. Thus they plundered the Egyptians.

 

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Unfortunately for the Egyptians, the worst happened. Death of the firstborn came, just as GOD said. Pharaoh responded by calling for Moses and Aaron by night. He told them to leave and take the flocks and herds with them. All of Pharaoh’s servants urged them as well. The children of Israel left in haste, but they were prepared.

 

My Observations:

• Pharaoh finally surrendered after many people died.
• GOD’s prophecy of the children of Israel plundering Egypt came true.
• The children of Israel left in haste just as GOD prophesied.

 

“Bless me also,” were the words of a broken Pharaoh. Pride could no longer be the focus because death was on everyone’s mind. Frightened that it would happen to them, the Egyptians urged the people to leave, whether Pharaoh agreed or not.

 

Pharaoh’s response was too late. A lot of people could have been spared, but pride got in the way. GOD dismantled the mindset that humans could e gods. Egypt was broken, beat up and devastated. No group would look at them as the mighty nation that broke the wills of humans. They lost all of their stuff, just as GOD said.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD remind Moses about Pharaoh’s response to the death of the firstborn?
• Has GOD prepared you for a successful exit on the way to your promised land?
• Are you sitting and waiting on the LORD or are you preparing and believing in HIS return?

Response to Hail – Hard Heart

Response to Hail – Hard Heart

Exodus 9: ²⁷ And Pharaoh sent and called for Moses and Aaron, and said to them, “I have sinned this time. The Lord is righteous, and my people and I are wicked. ²⁸ Entreat the Lord, that there may be no more mighty thundering and hail, for it is enough. I will let you go, and you shall stay no longer.”

 

²⁹ So Moses said to him, “As soon as I have gone out of the city, I will spread out my hands to the Lord; the thunder will cease, and there will be no more hail, that you may know that the earth is the Lord’s. ³⁰ But as for you and your servants, I know that you will not yet fear the Lord God.”

 

³¹ Now the flax and the barley were struck, for the barley was in the head and the flax was in bud. ³² But the wheat and the spelt were not struck, for they are late crops.

 

³³ So Moses went out of the city from Pharaoh and spread out his hands to the Lord; then the thunder and the hail ceased, and the rain was not poured on the earth. ³⁴ And when Pharaoh saw that the rain, the hail, and the thunder had ceased, he sinned yet more; and he hardened his heart, he and his servants. ³⁵ So the heart of Pharaoh was hard; neither would he let the children of Israel go, as the Lord had spoken by Moses.

 

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During the storm Pharaoh sent people into the hail and fire to bring Moses and Aaron to him. The fields were being destroyed and many things were on fire. Pharaoh begged Moses to ask GOD to stop the hail. Moses knew that Pharaoh did not repent, but called to the LORD anyway. The hail stopped and Pharaoh and his servants responded with hard hearts.

 

My Observations:

• Pharaoh would say anything to get out of trouble.
• GOD used the hail to destroy livestock of those who would not believe HE would do what HE said HE would do.
• Moses told Pharaoh that he should believe that the earth belongs to the LORD, not to him.

 

Six promises were not kept by Pharaoh and seven plagues have now passed. Pharaoh may have said to himself, “I am still in control because I tricked Moses into stopping the hail.” He refused to give credit to GOD or value HIS power. We do the same, don’t we?

 

The same GOD that poured down hail is the same GOD who can heal, fix problems or raise up unlikely people. But sometimes we remain as blind as Pharaoh to GOD’s power. GOD wants everyone to know the earth is HIS. No matter if it is Pharaoh of Egypt or a modern-day Pharaoh, GOD is in control.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD remind Moses about Pharaoh’s lie about letting the people go because of the hail damage?
• Have you allowed the enemy to blind you to GOD’s power?
• Can you surrender your efforts to give up and allow GOD to fill you up?

Response to Boils – Hard Heart

Response to Boils – Hard Heart

Exodus 9: ¹² But the Lord hardened the heart of Pharaoh; and he did not heed them, just as the Lord had spoken to Moses.

 

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For the sixth time, Pharaoh hardened his heart and would not turn to GOD. He believed he was a god and the one and only true GOD let him believe it.

 

My Observations:

• Pharaoh refused to admit that GOD was in control.
• Pharaoh wanted to control people and situations.
• Pharaoh would rather have the people around him suffer than to surrender to GOD.

 

Five warnings have passed and six plagues fell on the people because Pharaoh would not relent. GOD could have easily killed Pharaoh, but HE was doing something bigger. GOD was taking down a mindset that a human can think of himself as a god.

 

There are two sides to GOD’s wish. First, GOD kept warning Pharaoh to let HIS people go, otherwise Pharaoh would know that GOD is in control of wrath. At the same time, GOD wanted the children of Israel to know that HE is the GOD of salvation, deliverance, provision, protection and healing. Pharaoh’s attitude is the warning to us. GOD wants surrender.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD remind Moses about Pharaoh’s response to boils on all the Egyptian’s bodies?
• Have you ever been put in a situation where things seem to be going wrong and you would not surrender to an apology or loving someone you may have avoided?
• Is it time to self-examine some things that GOD is trying to have you surrender to HIM?

Second Plague: Frogs

Second Plague: Frogs

Exodos 8: And the Lord spoke to Moses, “Go to Pharaoh and say to him, ‘Thus says the Lord: “Let My people go, that they may serve Me. ² But if you refuse to let them go, behold, I will smite all your territory with frogs. ³ So the river shall bring forth frogs abundantly, which shall go up and come into your house, into your bedroom, on your bed, into the houses of your servants, on your people, into your ovens, and into your kneading bowls. ⁴ And the frogs shall come up on you, on your people, and on all your servants.” ’ ”

 

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GOD sends Moses with the third warning to tell Pharaoh. HE warned him to “Let MY people go,” otherwise frogs will overrun the area.

 

My Observations:

• Pharaoh was about to face the second plague and could respond with obedience to GOD.
• GOD was clear in HIS words to Pharaoh.
• GOD did not speak directly to Pharaoh, but to HIS chosen leader Moses.

 

Frogs were revered by the Egyptians as gods. They worshiped frogs more than humans. They treated the Hebrews worse than frogs. GOD decided to warn Pharaoh first before sending frogs. If Pharaoh would change his heart, then frogs would not plague the land. But if he does not change his heart, then frogs will be everywhere.

 

GOD shows HIS sense of humor and said HE would put frogs “on your people.” This is funny and scary at the same time. GOD would produce so many frogs that there would be no place to go. The frogs represent a useless idol. They would have so many useless frogs and no way to get rid of them. They would place their hope in frogs but nothing would come from it.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD remind Moses about HIS warning to Pharaoh about the frogs?
• Have you ever placed your hope in a thing or a human versus placing your hope in GOD?
• Is your hope in GOD strong enough to keep you from placing your hope in something or someone else?

First Plague: Water Becomes Blood

First Plague: Water Becomes Blood

Exodus 7: ¹⁴ So the Lord said to Moses: “Pharaoh’s heart is hard; he refuses to let the people go. ¹⁵ Go to Pharaoh in the morning, when he goes out to the water, and you shall stand by the river’s bank to meet him; and the rod which was turned to a serpent you shall take in your hand. ¹⁶ And you shall say to him, ‘The Lord God of the Hebrews has sent me to you, saying, “Let My people go, that they may serve Me in the wilderness”; but indeed, until now you would not hear! ¹⁷ Thus says the Lord: “By this you shall know that I am the Lord. Behold, I will strike the waters which are in the river with the rod that is in my hand, and they shall be turned to blood. ¹⁸ And the fish that are in the river shall die, the river shall stink, and the Egyptians will loathe to drink the water of the river.” ’ ”

 

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GOD spoke to Moses and let him know that Pharaoh’s heart was hard and he would not let the people go. GOD gave Moses a warning to tell Pharaoh what HE was about to do.

 

My Observations:

• GOD seemed to use a structure of Warning, Action and Response (WAR).
• GOD was taking down a mindset versus a particular nation.
• Pharaoh would have to go through nine other plagues.

 

To take down a mindset, GOD would give Pharaoh a warning. HE would then take action. And Pharaoh would respond. Pharaoh was at WAR with GOD and fighting a losing battle. The first plague was turning the river into blood.

 

This was the lifeline of commerce, cleanliness and food. I also believe that GOD was responding to a previous Pharaoh who demanded that the Hebrew male children be thrown in the river. GOD would use the WAR pattern nine more times until Pharaoh let the people go. This was the first warning.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD remind Moses about HIS warning to Pharaoh?
• Have you ever been too scared to heed a warning and ultimately got hit with the problem?
• Is it possible that GOD is warning you to surrender your plan to HIM?

Healthy Surrender

Healthy Surrender

Genesis 31: ⁴³ And Laban answered and said to Jacob, “These daughters are my daughters, and these children are my children, and this flock is my flock; all that you see is mine. But what can I do this day to these my daughters or to their children whom they have borne? ⁴⁴ Now therefore, come, let us make a covenant, you and I, and let it be a witness between you and me.”

 

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Realizing his rage filled quest was futile, Laban spoke to Jacob saying “” what can I do?” He searched for his household idols, but Rachel hid them. He wanted to get his stuff back, but GOD warned him. His only choice was to surrender.

 

My Observations:

• Laban’s greed made him blind to the purpose of having the stuff, namely to feed family.
• Laban lost his family and his stuff because of his greed.
• Laban realized his fight would be against GOD if he harmed Jacob, so he surrendered.

 

It took GOD to intervene for Laban to realize his motive for pursuing Jacob would turn out poorly for him. His rage was because he was about to lose his flocks and the people who supported them. His help was walking out the door and his wealth was diminishing.

 

Laban did what many people would not do. He surrendered. He decided that fighting Jacob’s GOD would cause him more trouble. I am not sure if he placed hope in his idols, and by losing them, he felt the fight was futile. Kind of like a lucky charm. But he did realize GOD has the power to intervene. His surrender was healthy.

 

Challenge

• Why do you think Laban’s decree was detailed and told to Moses by GOD?
• Have you ever realized that you may be fighting GOD?
• Is there a part of you that needs to surrender to GOD, so HE can rebuild it for HIS purpose?

Example Complete

Example Complete

Genesis 22: Now it came to pass after these things that God tested Abraham, and said to him, “Abraham!”

And he said, “Here I am.”

² Then He said, “Take now your son, your only son Isaac, whom you love, and go to the land of Moriah, and offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains of which I shall tell you.”

 

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After facing many trials, Abraham had what he wanted. His elation brimmed with relief that GOD’s promise really did come true. Abraham may have thought “This is it!” BUT GOD had something else for Abraham to do. Abraham needed to sacrifice his “only” son.

 

My Observations:

• GOD knew what Abraham would do, so this “test” seemed like an example of readiness for other people.
• GOD mentioned that Isaac was Abraham’s “only” son when Abraham had Ishmael as another son.
• GOD seemed to be using this time as a prophecy to show what needed to be done to save the world.

 

Being ready, willing and able to give up everything GOD gave him, showed an example that Abraham was a complete example. “Yes LORD” seemed to be easy for Abraham, but it probably was not, at first. He grew up facing many difficult situations and came through them only because of GOD.

 

Abraham heard about the stories of Shem from Terah, his father and knew GOD could do anything. He talked with angels and saw GOD destroy an evil city. He probably knew that any attempt to keep Isaac from harm would be futile, especially after trying to bargain to save Sodom.  He did not know that this sacrifice would be what GOD would do for humanity through JESUS.

 

GOD gave another vague direction by not giving Abraham the exact location. GOD had a plan in mind, and did not want Abraham slipping in his own plan, like the plan of Ishmael. Abraham would become a complete example.

 

Challenge

• Why did GOD mention “your only son” to Abraham?
• Have you been asked by GOD to give up something you love dearly for HIM?
• Could it be possible that the thing you are holding onto is keeping you from growing in the LORD?

Free Will Obtained

Free Will Obtained

Genesis 4: ⁸ Now Cain^]talked with Abel his brother; and it came to pass, when they were in the field, that Cain rose up against Abel his brother and killed him.

⁹ Then the Lord said to Cain, “Where is Abel your brother?”

He said, “I do not know. Am I my brother’s keeper?”

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GOD created the heavens and the earth with love in mind. When HE created the garden of Eden, HE made a special place for HIM to have an everlasting relationship with HIS creation. But Satan had another plan that would ruin humans. When Adam and Eve were fooled into sinning, they had a choice, but did not choose wisely.

 

Now Cain was furious at being rejected by JESUS. He was also jealous that his brother’s offering to JESUS was accepted. If Cain were an only child, there still would have been a problem between JESUS and Cain. But he wasn’t an only child. He killed his brother.

 

My Observations:

• Cain did not learn murder from anyone.
• Cain allowed anger to turn into hatred which made him commit murder.
• Cain probably stewed over the offering situation and became enraged during the conversation with Abel, which led him to murder.

 

I can only imagine the conversation between Cain and Abel. Cain, full of blame, may have asked questions as to why Abel showed him up when it came to the offering. Or maybe he tried to convince Abel to help him build the garden and to stop following JESUS. GOD did not reveal the conversation. But HE did reveal the outcome, namely murder.

I believe it was JESUS who asked Cain, “Where is Abel your brother?” JESUS knew what had happened, but Cain lied. And on top of the lie, he gave a sarcastic remark about responsibilities. “Am I my brother’s keeper?”  could have been a reply referring to not being a shepherd. This was the first rejection of JESUS.

 

Challenge

• Why did GOD mention the conversation between Cain and Abel?
• Have you ever argued about free will in a convenient way that fights against its existence?
• Will you recognize that GOD’s love will not stop you from sinning, rather that JESUS died for your sins and was raised from the dead to forgive you if you believe you need to be forgiven?

Alive and Well

Alive and Well

James 2: ²⁵ It was the same with the prostitute Rahab. She was put right with God through her actions, by welcoming the Israelite spies and helping them to escape by a different road.

 

²⁶ So then, as the body without the spirit is dead, also faith without actions is dead.

 

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Feeling shamed from the weekend of drinking and carousing, I did not want to be around church people. I felt they would be judgmental and try to tell me more about what I was doing than the hidden things they were doing.

 

• I did not want to be a hypocrite.
• I was ashamed of my sins and simply wanted peace.
• I tried to stay away from “perfect” people because I felt there was no help for me.

 

James used a shocking example of faith. He mentioned the prostitute Rahab was put right with GOD through her actions. He did not focus on her sin, rather on her faith in risking everything to hide the spies of Israel to help them escape. He concludes his warning by stating faith requires actions.

 

My Observations:

• Sin may make me want to stay away from GOD, BUT JESUS forgave me of all of my sins.
• Shame may try to stop me from doing what GOD wants me to do, BUT THE HOLY SPIRIT brings me comfort that I am redeemed.
• Doubt may place uncertainty in my path, BUT THE FATHER gives me a firm foundation that keeps me sure that HE loves me.

 

Let’s face it, sin can be a barrier to doing what GOD wants me to do. I mean, when I get caught up in sin, I feel ashamed and start making up excuses for not serving GOD’s people. Blame arises and false statements about GOD’s love pop in my mind. BUT GOD brings me comfort.

 

In the middle of my sin, CHRIST died for me. Not after I stopped sinning, in the “middle.” JESUS was watching me and you sin and died for us anyway. HE didn’t wait for us to try to clean ourselves up or to become perfect. HE saw my imperfections and said “I love you.” HE then said “Go” I am glad GOD is the ultimate forgiver.

 

Challenge

• Why do you think the writer used the label “prostitute” instead of simply mentioning her name?
• Have you ever went through periods of trying not to sin and thought more highly of yourself?
• Have you ever wanted to run away from GOD because of a certain sin?
• Will you seek GOD’s kingdom, knowing HE loves you no matter what today?

Balanced

Balanced

Colossians 3: ¹⁸ Wives, submit yourselves to your husbands, for that is what you should do as Christians.

¹⁹ Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them.

²⁰ Children, it is your Christian duty to obey your parents always, for that is what pleases God.

²¹ Parents, do not irritate your children, or they will become discouraged.

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Imperfect people with many life changes, needed a way to navigate ambiguity. With hurt happening all around, something needed to be said. But what could be the problem? Imbalance.

 

• Wives had complaints about husbands.
• Husbands had complaints about wives.
• Children had complaints about parents and parents complained about their children.

 

Paul addressed issues that continue to this day. Families had become imbalanced and looked for solutions. Unfortunately the solutions must not have worked so the complaints remained. He brings the ultimate solution to address imbalance.

 

My Observations

• Only GOD can bring families back into balance.
• With CHRIST as the foundation, imbalance can be cured.
• GOD wants me to look at my role through HIS eyes instead of mine.

 

Looking at CHRIST as the answer sounds easy, but can be difficult if things are out of balance. I mean, if CHRIST is used to wound people into doing a role that is expected by another person, regret, distrust and resentment can appear. The result is more imbalance. BUT GOD has this too.

 

HE has seen family after family after family try and make mistakes. HE knows the walking wounded need help and HE is willing to bring balance to a specific role. HE wants me to come into balance with HIM first so I can see my role through healed, not hurt lenses. I am grateful for my family and love the fact that GOD loves each person far more than I could ever imagine.

 

Challenge

• What words do you get stuck on from the writer?
• What words from the writer can throw things out of balance?
• Does looking at your own role hurt or bring excitement to you?
• Will you seek a balanced approach by understanding the love that CHRIST has shown can live in you today?

Stand as Free

Stand as Free

Galatians 5:1 Freedom is what we have—Christ has set us free! Stand, then, as free people, and do not allow yourselves to become slaves again.

 

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When things were going well, I found myself in the same pattern. I did not pray as much, nor did I mind sinning as much. But when trouble came, I was fervent in prayer and I tried to walk straight.

 

• I was trying to control my life.
• I was not sure if GOD was really on my side.
• I thought I could manipulate GOD by “doing” more.

 

Church leaders were prescribing more to “do” but Paul was sent by JESUS to give everyone rest. Freedom is something that CHRIST has provided for all who believe in a Savior. No longer do we need to show GOD we are wrong by doing the Law.

 

My Observations

• Peace is a gift GOD wants me to have, so I accept it.
• Joy is part of the fruit of the SPIRIT, so I embrace it.
• Rest is the place GOD wants to take me to, so I can start now.

 

Attempting to fulfill all of the Law proved impossible for all humans except one. JESUS knew how to navigate life without committing one single sin. HIS creation was busy trying to get others to not believe in HIM but to follow their preaching and remain blind.

 

Weak leaders want to be the solution and to grow a following. BUT GOD wants all of us to point to HIM and depend on HIS mercy and grace. Sin no longer has control over the situation. Whether I sin or not GOD’s power prevails. I am glad HIS decisions of love for me are not based on my actions but through faith.

 

Challenge

• What does freedom look like to you?
• Can you be free, yet choose to be a slave to GOD?
• Will you stop trying so hard to please GOD and seek HIS kingdom by spreading the Good News of forgiveness, love and mercy today?

Reputation Repaired

Reputation Repaired

Galatians 1: ²⁰ What I write is true. God knows that I am not lying!

 

²¹ Afterward I went to places in Syria and Cilicia. ²² At that time the members of the churches in Judea did not know me personally. ²³ They knew only what others were saying: “The man who used to persecute us is now preaching the faith that he once tried to destroy!” ²⁴ And so they praised God because of me.

 

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It took time, but my reputation was repaired. I actually did not know what people were saying about me, but it did not seem pleasant. When I walked in the room, the conversation would change. “This stinks!” I said to myself. But I felt helpless to change the situation.

 

• I felt I had to convince people they had the wrong impression of me.
• I felt misunderstood.
• I felt shunned by people and could not do or say anything to make things right.

 

At one point Paul became known for being a murderer. What was worse was, he did the killing in the name of GOD. He thought he was doing what was right according to the Law. BUT GOD intervened. HE called Paul to be HIS servant. Now Paul’s reputation was repaired through much suffering he had to go through.

 

My Observations

• GOD sees my heart where humans cannot.
• GOD has a different view of my reputation and HE loves me beyond my sins.
• GOD gave HIS SON so I could have a good reputation with HIM.

 

People are fickle and reputations come and go. I mean, one day I am in the in crowd, the next, I am looked at as a criminal. BUT GOD changes my reputation. When I confess my sins HE is faithful and just to forgive my sins and cleanse me of all unrighteousness.

 

This does not mean I will not face the consequence of my sins. It means GOD can still use me to grow HIS loving kingdom of redeemed sinners in spite of my sins. I am glad GOD loves me as a sinner and has given me a new name I cannot wait to hear.

 

Challenge

• Can you imagine being the writer after having persecuted the people you now have to convince about GOD’s love for them?
• Have you ever been misunderstood or given a reputation that you know is not what is in your heart?
• Will you accept GOD’s purpose on your life and allow HIM to clear your reputation HIS way?

Dare to be Foolish

Dare to be Foolish

2 Corinthians 11: ¹⁶ I repeat: no one should think that I am a fool. But if you do, at least accept me as a fool, just so I will have a little to boast of. ¹⁷ Of course what I am saying now is not what the Lord would have me say; in this matter of boasting I am really talking like a fool. ¹⁸ But since there are so many who boast for merely human reasons, I will do the same. ¹⁹ You yourselves are so wise, and so you gladly tolerate fools! ²⁰ You tolerate anyone who orders you around or takes advantage of you or traps you or looks down on you or slaps you in the face. ²¹ I am ashamed to admit that we were too timid to do those things!

 

But if anyone dares to boast about something—I am talking like a fool—I will be just as daring.

 

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Going with the crowd felt good. I finally fit in, even to the point where people expected me to act a certain way. I was finally considered a leader. But something happened. Someone challenged me to give up my partying ways and focus my life on CHRIST. This seemed foolish. Give up being popular?! Yeah, right!

 

• I felt there was safety in numbers.
• I wanted to be seen and noticed in the big ocean of people.
• I wanted “my” way to be followed.

 

Paul seems to get sarcastic with his words. He points out that people so easily followed “fools” who used the right words at the right time. Then he says he will be daring at what the crowd says is foolish.

 

My Observations

• Surrendering my life to JESUS may seem foolish to many, but not to HIM.
• Following HIS word may seem foolish to the world, but not to HIM.
• Seeking CHRIST every day may seem foolish to the greedy, the power hungry and the controllers, but not to HIM.

 

Daring to follow CHRIST means being looked at by the world as foolish. I mean, JESUS died trying to tell HIS creation HE loves each and ever one. This message of surrender could not be heard so they killed HIM, looking for a political giant to follow.

 

JESUS was raised from the dead and those who believe in this resurrection are labeled as foolish. “Why would GOD die?” The world does not understand HIS love and it seems foolish to the power hungry for HIM to give up everything to save HIS own creation. I gladly accept HIS foolish gift and will be just as daring to speak about HIM.

 

Challenge

• What does the writer say about a form of wisdom?
• Is it tempting to follow the rich and powerful?
• Do you think you would be different if you were rich and powerful?
• Will you surrender your life to CHRIST and accept the weapons that are considered weak by the world, such as the fruit of the Spirit today?

Seeking Approval

Seeking Approval

2 Corinthians 10: ¹⁵ So we do not boast about the work that others have done beyond the limits God set for us. Instead, we hope that your faith may grow and that we may be able to do a much greater work among you, always within the limits that God has set. ¹⁶ Then we can preach the Good News in other countries beyond you and shall not have to boast about work already done in someone else's field.

 

¹⁷ But as the scripture says, “Whoever wants to boast must boast about what the Lord has done.” ¹⁸ For it is when the Lord thinks well of us that we are really approved, and not when we think well of ourselves.

 

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“This is really messed up” I thought to myself. I turned in my work and explained that I really did not understand the assignment very well. To my surprise I did better on the assignment than I thought. It turned out that other people did not understand the assignment either.

 

• I did not like to be evaluated.
• I did not like being told to correct my work.
• I did not like seeking approval on things I could not understand or control.

 

Paul concludes explaining his personal appeal to the people to follow JESUS. He tells everyone to “boast about what the LORD has done” to avoid pointing at their own accomplishments. He explains that the LORD’s approval is the only true approval.

 

My Observations

• Some of the things I think I do for the LORD I really do for the approval of humans.
• Some of the things I think I do for humans were really done for the LORD.
• Only GOD knows what I have done in sincerity for HIM and HE will reward me based on HIS measure.

 

Is donating a huge sum of money greater than giving a thirsty person a cup of water? I don’t know. BUT GOD says “And if you give even a cup of cold water to one of the least of MY followers, you will surely be rewarded.” Motive and sincerity will always be questioned by another human. BUT GOD is the only one who has the rewards.

 

HE sees when I fight my sin and surrender “my” way to do something HE wants me to do to grow HIS kingdom. Boasting about what JESUS did for me seems to be the only way of gaining the approval GOD, I gladly give up pointing to me so others’ “faith may grow” in the LORD.

 

Challenge

• What approval do you think the writer was seeking in order to keep preaching the Good News in other countries?
• Have you ever felt like you were seeking approval from humans who have already wrongfully judged you?
• Will you grow your faith in GOD and know HE has already approved you to boast about JESUS today?

Repairing Self-Destruction

2 Corinthians 7:1 All these promises are made to us, my dear friends. So then, let us purify ourselves from everything that makes body or soul unclean, and let us be completely holy by living in awe of God.

 

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Feeling like a failure, I needed some “fun.” With a mountain of debt, a broken down car, kicked out of school again and being dumped, I wanted to feel good for a moment. I went to a convention and there were wild parties everywhere. But for some reason, I could not get into it this particular time.

 

• I thought I could relieve myself if I did some things that I could hide.
• I felt like I was already low, so sinning wouldn’t make me any lower.
• I wondered if there was an alternative to the self-destructive path I was on.

 

Paul speaks softly regarding purity. He doesn’t rant or yell, rather tries to convince everyone that JESUS made promises that were everlasting. These eternal promises should be recognized, but sin blinds us to that well deserved recognition. Paul give a better way of looking at purity. Be in awe of GOD.

 

My Observations

• JESUS did an amazing thing by volunteering to die and be raised from the dead, just for me.
• GOD’s mercy is amazing because HE sees the sin I hold onto tightly and still forgives me.
• The HOLY SPIRIT amazingly lives in my body, seeing every thought and action and pleads on my behalf for forgiveness.

 

“Stop sinning” is easy to say when everything is going right. I mean, when the world seems to be falling apart, sin seems to knock on the door of my heart with its grimy hands at my most vulnerable time. BUT GOD sees all and loves me when I’m low.

 

HE understands every situation and cleanses me of all unrighteousness when I ask. But what if I ask and sin again? HE forgives me and cleanses me over and over and over and over and over again. He fills me with another chance each day and gives me a better path to walk on. I am in awe that GOD’s grace “is” sufficient.

 

Challenge

• Does the writer limit the boundaries of purity?
• Is there any difference between using slanderous words and sexual sin?
• What do you notice about the individual walk implied in this passage?
• Will you remain in awe of GOD’s forgiveness and allow HIM to cleanses you of all unrighteousness today and again tomorrow?

Wear the Tee Shirt

Wear the Tee Shirt

1 Corinthians 7: ¹⁰ For married people I have a command which is not my own but the Lord's: a wife must not leave her husband; ¹¹ but if she does, she must remain single or else be reconciled to her husband; and a husband must not divorce his wife.
 
¹² To the others I say (I, myself, not the Lord): if a Christian man has a wife who is an unbeliever and she agrees to go on living with him, he must not divorce her. ¹³ And if a Christian woman is married to a man who is an unbeliever and he agrees to go on living with her, she must not divorce him. ¹⁴ For the unbelieving husband is made acceptable to God by being united to his wife, and the unbelieving wife is made acceptable to God by being united to her Christian husband. If this were not so, their children would be like pagan children; but as it is, they are acceptable to God. ¹⁵ However, if the one who is not a believer wishes to leave the Christian partner, let it be so. In such cases the Christian partner, whether husband or wife, is free to act. God has called you to live in peace. ¹⁶ How can you be sure, Christian wife, that you will not save your husband? Or how can you be sure, Christian husband, that you will not save your wife?

 

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Traveling with a large group was probably a huge responsibility that I did not have to be aware of. “Put on your tee shirts” was the command I heard several times. The tee shirt had a bright color and a distinct design. Some people complained while others complied. Sure enough, someone got slightly lost in an airport in another country. I am glad we had tee shirts to identify with the group.

 

• There have been times when I saw the benefits of being together.
• There have been times when I could see the need to identify being together.
• There have been times when I saw the problem of not being together actually cause others to be affected.

 

Paul speaks a little deeper about marriage. He tries to explain the commitment required to be a witness for JESUS. Even if a believer were married to an unbeliever, he or she would be the example that leads people to salvation in JESUS. Unity is part of that example.

 

• GOD wants me to show unity so others can come to know JESUS.
• GOD wants me to seek unity as part of my service to HIM.
• GOD wants me to be open to being agreeable so HE can draw people to HIM.

 

Getting “my” way sometimes means someone else loses. I mean, it is easy to pick a fight and harder to show unity. BUT GOD wants unity wherever I am. HE is the one who provides salvation. I must align my desires with HIS so everyone will see HIM as desirable. I am glad HE cares enough for me to help me seek unity when I want “my” way.

 

• Are you part of a couple or group and still trying to get your own way?
• Do you get tired of being bound by rules and just want to do your own thing?
• Will you seek unity and surrender your life to CHRIST so HE can guide all who you are associated with, back to HIM today?

Clear Conscience

 Clear Conscience

Romans 13: Everyone must obey state authorities, because no authority exists without God's permission, and the existing authorities have been put there by God. ² Whoever opposes the existing authority opposes what God has ordered; and anyone who does so will bring judgment on himself. ³ For rulers are not to be feared by those who do good, but by those who do evil. Would you like to be unafraid of those in authority? Then do what is good, and they will praise you, ⁴ because they are God's servants working for your own good. But if you do evil, then be afraid of them, because their power to punish is real. They are God's servants and carry out God's punishment on those who do evil. ⁵ For this reason you must obey the authorities—not just because of God's punishment, but also as a matter of conscience.

 

⁶ That is also why you pay taxes, because the authorities are working for God when they fulfill their duties. ⁷ Pay, then, what you owe them; pay them your personal and property taxes, and show respect and honor for them all.

 

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Being stopped because of a burned out headlight seemed unfair to me, but it was the law. I explained that I was unaware and demonstrated it by turning on the high-beam lights. The burnt out one came on and the other went off. “Okay, you can go” they all said. There were four police.

 

• There have been times when I questioned the law enforcers.
• There have been times when I wondered if I was being singled out.
• There have been times when I felt relieved I was doing what I was supposed to be doing.

 

Paul speak about following laws of people who may not believe in JESUS as their ruler. He knows that no kingdom, good or bad, could be put in place without GOD’s authority. Paul also spoke about paying taxes to show respect. He knew there was something greater at stake.

 

• GOD wants me to know the ultimate goal is to spread who JESUS is.
• GOD knows I need freedom to present the gospel of JESUS.
• GOD reminds me that I am not of this world so even if scoundrels are flexing momentary authority, HIS authority should be my focus.

 

During these days of racial tension over the misuse of authority, I find the timing of this scripture to be amazing. Also, it is tax day in the country I live in so I find that equally amazing. But what am I to learn? Should I just roll over and let abusers continue with injustice on everything Paul mentions? No, but with a different focus.

 

GOD wants me to make HIM my focus. HE is in control of the abusers and HE protects me. Injustice needs to be called out, as long as the end goal is to speak about JESUS. Meanwhile, I will yield to the temporary authority humans have and show everyone the respect JESUS showed me.

 

• Are you mad at those in authority?
• Do you feel you should not yield to their authority because you do not like them?
• Will you see beyond temporary authority and let GOD provide the vengeance HE promised to the abusers while enabling you to continue to speak about JESUS?

Love Who You Are

 

Love Who You Are

Romans 9: ¹⁹ One of you will say to me: “Then why does God still blame us? For who is able to resist his will?” ²⁰ But who are you, a human being, to talk back to God? “Shall what is formed say to the one who formed it, ‘Why did you make me like this?’” ²¹ Does not the potter have the right to make out of the same lump of clay some pottery for special purposes and some for common use?

 

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Broke, nappy hair, skinny and torn up clothes made me a target for ridicule from several angles. On top of that, I was sometimes blamed for the skin I wore, let alone the glasses that screamed “Don’t ever date this nerd!” “Why did YOU make me this way?” I cried out. To GOD. I got no answer.

 

• There were times when I shouted out blame so I could feel better.
• There were times when I spit poison at parents, teachers, and bosses, for making me a certain way.
• There were times when I felt misunderstood mainly because I did not understand myself.

 

Paul continues with the difficult subject of trying to explain why GOD made humans the way HE made them. The underlying question would be, why didn’t GOD just make everyone love HIM and believe in HIM? Paul does not address this question, but it is still there. He does, however, mention GOD’s right to make us the way HE pleases.

 

• GOD wants me to know HE made me special and with care.
• GOD wants me to understand that HE has a purpose for how HE made me.
• GOD wants me to love who I am so I can love others the way HE loves me.

 

Loving the way GOD made me is important. I mean, when I blame GOD, it means I am dissatisfied with what and how HE does things. The real reason I blame is to take charge or say to GOD, “Move over and let me show YOU how it should have been done.”

 

Looking back, I can see how beneficial it was to be me. I could talk to other broke, nappy haired, malnourished people and point them to GOD. HE would then fill me up so much that I would not just stop there. I could speak to those who ridiculed me about JESUS, and do it in a loving caring way. I am grateful GOD has a purpose for me, special or common.

 

• Are you full of blame and lacking in taking responsibility?
• Do you fight easily and surrender slowly?
• Will you give your blame and rage to GOD and love how HE made you so HE can clean your heart to use you for HIS purpose today?

Can, Will and Does

 

Can, Will and Does

Romans 9: ¹⁴ Shall we say, then, that God is unjust? Not at all. ¹⁵ For he said to Moses, “I will have mercy on anyone I wish; I will take pity on anyone I wish.” ¹⁶ So then, everything depends, not on what we humans want or do, but only on God's mercy. ¹⁷ For the scripture says to the king of Egypt, “I made you king in order to use you to show my power and to spread my fame over the whole world.” ¹⁸ So then, God has mercy on anyone he wishes, and he makes stubborn anyone he wishes.

 

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Hearing how others had “gotten away” with stealing. I tried my hand at it. I didn’t have enough money to pay for the pants and I really wanted to join the organization that required all of us to wear the same thing.

 

I lingered around the pants for what seemed like hours but it was probably minutes. I gave the pants to another person who was also joining the organization and he walked out the door. The deed was done.

 

• There were times when I thought I was getting away with something.
• There were times when I thought I was in control.
• There were times when I thought I could do my sins in secret and pretend to be innocent.

 

Paul gives some hard medicine to swallow. GOD takes mercy on whom HE wishes. On the contrary, GOD makes stubborn anyone HE wishes. Is there any hope? Yes! HE gives me choice.

 

• GOD wants me to surrender my stubborn will so HIS mercy can be shown through me.
• GOD wants me to say “I need JESUS as my Savior” so HIS mercy can be multiplied on me.
• GOD wants me to believe that JESUS is the only way to have an eternal existence with HIM.

 

All seeing, all powerful and everywhere is GOD. HE can do, HE will do and does anything HE pleases. The part of me that gets angry at that statement is the sin that fights against HIM. I mean, there is a part of me that wants to be GOD. That is the part of me HE hates.

 

HE still decided to show mercy on me. Mercy means I know I am guilty and fully aware I deserve the consequence of my actions, but the forgiver throws away my sentence and says I am free to go. Looking back, I can see an incredible amount of grace and mercy HE has shown to me. I can only say thank YOU.

 

• Are you fighting GOD thinking you will win?
• Do you think your stubbornness is a good quality?
• Will you surrender your life to the Most High GOD, by believing you need JESUS as your Savior, so HE will not harden your heart any further?