What a GREAT reading today! and that's good -- because we know that tomorrow is Leviticus!!!
set my sights on the realities of heaven . . . think about the things of heaven, not the things of earth. I love Paul's call to keep looking up; don't get bogged down in the petty problems and discouragements here -- we have THERE to focus on!
Quite a contrast of emotions in 3:8 and 3:12-14 8 says get rid of anger, rage, malicious behavior, slander, and dirty language - - don't lie (these are often emotions that we ignor -- not as visible as say sexual immorality or addictions - - but they are just as destructive to us)
Instead, God holds out the clothes of being: tenderhearted, mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, making allowance for each other's faults and forgiveness. Who WOULDN'T want to be around someone with clothes like that??
I also appreciated Paul's look at greed up in vs. 5. A week or so ago, I came to the same conclusion; that greed is a form of idolatry - - and that's part of the big 10!
You are called to live in peace and always be thankful! LOVE it! Now -- Holy Spirit, change me, because I'm not that way naturally!
I know a lot of women don't like 3:18. It makes perfect sense to me, though. If you look back to Genesis 3:16, part of the effects of sin was that the woman would "desire to control her husband" I see it all the time, in myself - and in others. A desire to control the situation, the family, the husband -- Paul says - - learn to submit. But if you look at ANY of these relationships here (husband/wife, father/son, slave/master) It's always a two-way street.
When there is respect and love on the husband's part - it's then much easier to open up, trust - submit (not a whole lot different from our relationship with God -- when we are aware of His love for us, His respect toward us; then we are able to take the steps of submission and abandonment toward Him!)
This submission on a woman's part, and love and respect on a man's part is so un-natural - - sin has corrupted us; but God wants to change us from the self-centered into the serving each other with love and respect and Him at the center!
I appreciate Paul's take (even though it's directed toward servants) on working for the Lord rather than for people. Puts a whole new spin on the daily duties of a job!
Finally - - I want to devote myself more to prayer and thankfulness! Where those 2 exist - - greed and self-centeredness are exploded out of the life:)
My heart just wasn't in today's reading. About the only thing that really spoke to me was in Col 4:3-4 where Paul is asking for prayer so that he can proclaim the mystery concerning Christ.
There’s no indication here that he has any self pity or bitterness or anger towards God because he's in prison. Had I been in that place, I would have said--- Why me, Lord? I would have been saying things like---God's forgotten me, or I must have sinned or--- “Satan has really won this time.
The other thing I was thinking about is that Paul was asking the people for prayer. When we ask people to pray for us they usually nod their head and say they will. Then they go out and Immediately forget about it. People usually don't pray unless they have a relative or friend who is dying or unless they are prayer warriors. Unfortunately,This seems to be an area of dishonesty among Christians.
Getting to this a bit late due to travel BUT I did read it yesterday too.
I too liked the part about looking up. See things from Christ's perspective, you have a new life, now act like it. Don't drag along like same ol' same ol.
And then when Christ comes back, the REAL, NEW me will be there too - changed to immortality instantly. But until then Paul says, be content with obscurity. I don't need to attract attention, I need to surrender to what God wants for me in each moment. Definitely a learning curve for me.
And if I'm in this new life, then I need to stop doing the things of death, which are a way of living by feelings & things instead of by God. The God of the Possible I repeat to myself over & over again.
And in 3:11 everyone is now defined by Christ. Wow, I really like that! No more judging by what I see, I give that to Jesus & ask Him to show me them thru His eyes. Really interesting thought as I traveled today & encountered people. I'm blown away that He doesn't get overwhelmed with all of us.
4:5,6 Paul says to make the most of every opportunity we're given. To be gracious in speech. "he goal is to bring out the best in others in a conversation, not put them down, not cut them out" or cut them up. I really need to work on this when I am wronged or think I am wronged. It's hard to be gracious. Almost read a whole book on the flights though that made me think more on the subject as well. Good stuff!
Man - I'm in the same boat with BOTH of you! If I'd have been in prison, I would have been having a hard time with trust. The story of Joseph and his spirit and trust has always been one of my favs.
Also, Chris - I'm there with you in looking at others through the eyes of Jesus. Not putting them down, but building them UP! Help me Holy Spirit - - please!
Yeah, Sherrie, that was a good thought about how Paul was not thinking of "poor me" in prison. For all of his bluntness & sharpness it seems at times, he really cared more about other people.
So Leviticus...well, obviously sinning is a big deal & the solemnity of the Day of Atonement was to impress that upon the people. I'm sure the rituals got to be just that though rituals. And we're no better today. We don't realize sometimes what sin costs & we sorta blow it off.
I like how God makes the point in 18 about being different than those who don't know God. We're not to conform but to be transformed as Paul says in Romans 12:1,2. And then He lists the specifics so there'd be no wondering what He meant. To be truly Christ-like is to be truly different.
and when you say "specifics" you mean "specifics" Gross! How can man even come up with that stuff? Interesting how it was sexual sin that was at the very core of defiling the land (vs 27) - - sounds familiar - - take a look at the media that fuels children and adults today; not a pretty picture.
I liked how in 16:2 it talked about the place where atonement (peace) is made - - is in the very presence of God:)
Looking at the 2 goats. I've heard before that the goat that was sacrificed represented Jesus, and the scapegoat that was, in the end, loaded with all the sins was Satan. If this illustration is true -- I wonder why God used goats? Usually you think about God as the Lamb of God. Maybe it's because in the end time -- he separates people into the "sheep" and the "goats" - - and, when Jesus took on our sins, it made him a goat - - again I am humbled that he would give up being a sheep and take on my goatedness, so I could be a sheep if I choose. Lord, help me not to ever take that choice lightly or for granted, and thank You!!
O! and Chris -- this is one of the Sabbaths you were talking about (Lev 16:31) that Paul referred to in Col 2:16! This wasn't THE Sabbath of creation and the big 10 -- this was a ceremonial Sabbath. It HAD to be different than the 7th day, as in vs 29 it says it comes on the 10th day of the month -- so it would have been on any given day of the week! Cool!
There is something important about "the blood" in 17:11-12 "It is the blood, given in exchange for a life, that makes purification possible." Any thoughts on that? Is blood still symbolic of something sacred and holy today? or was this part of a ceremony that isn't relevant today?
Linda, MSG didn't even refer to it as a sabbath, it just said a holy day. I think God referred to it as a sabbath just so the people would understand how it was to be observed.
As for blood - I think all religions, even in pagan circles, recognize the life being in the blood. If you look at the different rites of pagan & Native American cultures, there's a lot of things happening with blood that recognize the power of life in it.
Today's reading was another rise & fall of powers theme. I think it was neat that Joash was hidden for so long & protected. The people must have really hated his aunt. No one stood up for her it seems.
I wonder if Elisha asked God if he was gonna go the same way Elijah went. I doubt it, he was totally committed to whatever God wanted from/for him.
The guy who came back to life when he landed on Elisha's body must have really freaked everyone out pretty good. He must have had a hard time convincing people who he was. But maybe they weren't as cynical as we are today & they were used to more miracles.
I would have liked to have seen little 7 year old Joash climbing up on that throne! Joash must have been very teachable -- even when he hit his teen-age years, it seems like he was willing to listen to and work with Jehoida.
I was wondering why, if Joash followed God and pleased him, did he feel he needed to send all the sacred stuff and gold to Hazael? Why didn't he ask the Lord for advice, or maybe he did - and it doesn't say that (what would David have done?)
All the leaders of Judah in this section pretty much did what pleased God -- except they didn't destroy those pagan shrines -- so they allowed their people to continue sinning - - maybe they were people pleasers. I think our country's leaders try to be people pleasers too -- trying to keep everyone happy, so evil can sprout all over the place.
Even though the kings were pleasing God for the most part -- some of them were murdered - - sad. Seems like if you murdered someone, you automatically became the next king. Didn't they have any kind of court system that punished people for murder? If someone here tries to shoot the president - they go to jail. I guess in some countries though, you can overthrow a government - - guess that was what happened here.
I really got into 2 Kings 11:17-18 where Jehoiada makes a covenant with the Lord and goes in and destroys the temple of Baal and the priest of Baal. I, myself, decree my covenants with the Lord every day so that I can go into the enemy's territory and tear down his idols. I get a powerful download in my brain from the vivid picture that is described in this verse.
Then we get to chapters 12,13,14 and 15 where 4 times it says something to the effect -----and he didn't destroy the shrines on the hills---the people still sacrificed and burned incense there. There is supernatural power in those shrines on the hills where the people still worshiped other gods. You don't worship an idol if you're not getting something in return. I used to walk to the top of the hill on a little island called Shikanoshima in Japan. Along the pathway enshrouded in the greenery were little shrines containing a fat little Buddha. These little shrines could be found everywhere. In fact, they're probably still there to this day. There's power in those shrines.
I love Chapter 13 where as soon as a dead body touches Elisha's dead body--Elisha comes back to life. He's just zapped alive! So cool! In these last days there are many supernatural things happening. Living the Christian life is extremely boring if we aren't living in the supernatural. I'm glad that I get to be alive at this time. I hope I have the privilege of seeing someone raised from the dead soon.
Interesting thoughts ladies. I wondered some of those things as well Linda, with people just killing the kings right n left & no retribution it seems. But they did die pretty quick themselves too. And why Joash didn't pray to God? I don't know, but why don't I always ask Him for help instead of figuring it out on my own.
Sherrie, what version are you reading that made it sound like Elisha was the one brought back to life?
Today the MSG paraphrase really puts some nice spins on these psalms.
84:5 "And how blessed all those in whom You live, whose lives become roads You travel..." Just puts God living in us, directing our lives when we surrender to Him in a different light for me. It goes on to say how much is discovered with God in us. I think that is because we're seeing things through His eyes which goes back to what Paul was saying on Sunday in Colossians.
v10 "One day spent in your house, this beautiful place of worship, beats thousands spent on Greek island beaches". To be able to sing praise to my God & spend time in His presence is more refreshing & fulfilling then time on a gorgeous beach!
85:6 "Why not help us make a fresh start—a resurrection life? Then your people will laugh and sing!" It's just the natural result of surrender to Him, that lifts our burdens & our hearts in gratitude. Praise has to happen in one form or another.
86 at first sounds like David is holding up his life as deserving of help from God. But then he says that he always comes to God when he's in trouble because he's confident of the help he'll receive. Nice.
I wonder what it'd be like here on earth if we had a parade like David's talking about in v8-10. All showboating God & His goodness. Not trying to outdo each other to draw attention to themselves but thoroughly enjoying what each one had to say about Him, what He's done for them & letting each have their moment to praise Him.
v12 "Put me together, one heart and mind; then undivided, I'll worship in joyful fear." To serve with an undivided heart, it's something only God can do in me - a new heart/mind.
Love how it ends too! Asking God to be the white knight! Requesting a show of love for His child! "Make a show of how much you love me so the bullies who hate me will stand there slack-jawed, as you, God, gently and powerfully put me back on my feet."
You can't beat the MSG for word pics! I went back comparing all those texts you quoted -- really put so simply and artfully to make you take a second look. "What joy for those whose strength comes from the Lord. who have set their minds on a pilgrimage" David finishes this with a pilgrimage to Jerusalem -- but I think it fits on our pilgrimage to live with Him (either presently or in the future in heaven) Reminds me of Paul when he talks about keeping our minds on our heavenly home (not sure where that is)
84:6 When I walk through the Valley of Weeping, it will become a place of refreshing springs . . . continue to grow stronger. Really true -- tough to hold hands with sorrow and suffering, but that's when you grow and begin the climb to the high places.
85:2 "Yes, you covered all their sins" I got a word picture here of God putting his hand over our sins so He wouldn't see them. Kind of like if I have a scar on my hand (I don't, but trying to explain) and I cover it with my other hand so I don't have to look at the ugliness.
85:8 "He speaks peace to his faithful people" something we're all after, peace. And I love gentle people that speak peacefully to me -- not roughly or condemninglly.
86:4 Give happiness, O Lord, for I give myself to you! The two are connected. We relax in His love and peace = HAPPINESS!
86:11 The words that spoke the most to me this morning: 'Teach me your ways, O Lord; that I may live according to your truths." Not the truths I conjure up -- but Your forever truths. I want God's truth and love to be a part of who I am - - only possible by His Holy Spirit power and guidance and humility and teachability from me.
Really liked the "undivided" heart phrase the message used. Mine says with all my heart -- but I think undivided fits better; so many times I feel like maybe giving a piece and splitting the attention and worship in another area -- NOPE, not good enough -- He asks, hopes, desires ALL! It's what He gave for me! I'm constantly amazed at my ingratitude and lack of love. I long for the full-time love commitment to become second nature in my heart - - no distractions; an undivided heart.
Wow Chris---I was reading the Living Bible yesterday, but after reading other versions---It doesn't look like Elisha came back to life---it was the dead man who came back to life! I'm glad you pointed that out to me. Either way ---a dead guy came back to life. On a side note--Some Christians think it's easier to pray a dead person back to life if the body isn't cold yet---somehow, I just don't think it matters to the Lord how long the person has been dead.
Now onto Psalms 84:1 in the Living Bible. It says --"O Lord of the armies of Heaven". (not hosts---but armies of heaven.) I love this imagery of warring angels hanging out in heaven to do battle for us. Vs:2 "And I faint with longing to be able to enter your courtyard and come near the Living God." I know the feeling of getting so caught up in the love and presence of the Lord that I just want to be one with Him. And now since Jesus died on the Cross and shed His blood, I can now enter into His courts. I can come into the Holy place which this writer couldn't do.
Psalms 85:6 where it says "Oh Lord,revive us" has special meaning for me. There have been times in my life when things were so awful that I couldn't breathe for myself. I would literally forget to breathe. The Lord had to put me on life support and Breathe for me and revive me.
Psalms 86:8--"Where among the heathen gods is there a god like you? Where are their miracles? I'm so thankful that we worship a miracle working God. I believe that many of our young people are fascinated by Harry Potter and the world of supernatural online games and Satanisn because our churches today are dead. Churches have lost the power of the Holy Spirit and the supernatural. And young people hunger for that inside. If they can't get it from God, then they'll get it from Satan.
It seems like some of Proverbs would be common sense but we live in such a selfish world that we're just going downhill morally. A lot of 11 reminded me of living with my arms open to God & being filled with Him so that I'm a blessing to others instead of a burden.
I love the bluntness of some of 11 though: v22 - "Like a gold ring in a pig's snout is a beautiful face on an empty head".
Which takes me to 12:1 which I have always liked because the Bible uses the word stupid to describe people who don't like to be corrected or disciplined. It ain't fun, but it's so necessary. MSG says "If you love learning, you love the discipline that goes with it— how shortsighted to refuse correction!" Again, can't say I LOVE it & a lot depends on the way it's delivered but, if I can pull back & see the big picture instead of my hurt pride then I can receive it better.
12:23 "Prudent people don't flaunt their knowledge; talkative fools broadcast their silliness." I think this goes along with the saying of "if you don't know better to keep your mouth shut than to open it & remove all doubt" or something to that affect. I need to remember these more, I remove way too much doubt sometimes! LOL
Yup! I underlined 12:1 too as a reminder to pleeeeease welcome discipline (I don't think I've made it as far as loving either)
Here are some words for the people that God is working with -- that LOVE His discipline:
humble, honest, hopeful, knowledgable, honored by others, sensible, trustworthy, considers advice,stays out of debt, gracious, kind, have integrity, generous, has friends, loves discipline, God-approved, stable, plan ahead, admired, take care of their animals, hard worker, content, work hard, listen to others, stays calm when insulted, tells the truth, speak healing words, discreet, give good advice, live green.
That's the kind of person I'd like to be - - and to have as a next door neighbor!! But, as you say Chris, we live in a selfish world that pulls us down. Only Holy Spirit power can protect us from ourselves.
Also -- I liked 12:19. I have a saying that is: the truth always comes out in the end. Sometimes, when you're not sure about a situation -- wait; it usually becomes clear with time.
waiting is not my strong suit, but you're right Linda, it does eventually come out. But to have to wait until the end? Wow, just shows God's incredible patience with us.
I wonder if Ezekiel was getting discouraged with his job & so in 33 God makes sure he understands the importance of being the watchman & his responsibilities.
So much for the "once saved, always saved" proponents. I've always thought they've negated freedom of choice with that but in 33:12-16 God makes it clear that we have a choice to make daily to die to self (as Paul also says).
33:21,22 I remember reading something about Ezekiel not being able to speak, but all the stuff God has been saying to prophesy he wasn't able to say until now? Kinda confusing. What did you guys get out of it?
Starting at v25 in the MSG it sounds like God's describing the US & how we live now, all the willful sins, murder, & thinking we're all that. But we will be brought down & face judgment. And hopefully a lot will be humbled & (re)turn to God.
I like God firing the religious leaders who only are in it for themselves. And as you pointed out Linda, the truth comes out eventually. We see a lot of high profile pastors that are exposed for the selfish, money hungry, etc., etc., these days. Some of them don't even make the headlines anymore it's so rampant. Really sad.
But I like that God says He'll take care of His sheep & restore them since the leaders don't. And what about how the sheep act amongst themselves. I wondered about the word pic of muddying the pure water. Was that referring to how we twist His Word at times or misrepresent Him to others thru our words/actions? Very interesting.
Great restoration promises & all because God's glorifying His name! It's nothing we've done, it's all about Him! So very true!
Ezekiel was a watchman for the people of Israel to warn them that if they didn't repent, then the enemy was coming and they would be destroyed. Chris--I believe that Ezekiel couldn't speak for a time because he hadn't yet received any message from the Lord. I myself am learning to wait upon the Lord:-- to know when to speak and when not to speak, when to go places, when not to go places, to have divine appts and to be delivered daily from people that I shouldn't have contact with because of their negative words.
I love Ezekiel 33:25 where the Lord God says "you are powerless..." Many times we think we have everything under control and God says--Oh yeah?--Let me show you how much control you have!
Sheesh---when I read Ezek.33:30-33 it sounded like many churches I'be been in during recent years. People whispering behind your back, seeming sincere and sweet to your face, talking about loving the Lord. Hah----I was just entertainment to them as it says in vs.32.
And in Chapter 34----Woe to the Shephards who feed themselves instead of their flocks. Wow---this is happening everywhere I look. It's almost unbelievable. Men and women of God who used to preach the word whom I respected so much are now openly sinning and STILL preaching. Whatever happened to holiness? So many people today who call themselves Christians don't know the word of God. They don't even know the basics.
WOW ladies! It sounds like all 3 of us came to the same conclusion on Ez 33:30-33. A present-day warning to what's going on around us here in the US. They listen to words, but have no intention of doing them. Sometimes going to religious events to be entertained instead of for a revival and a turning from sins; pretending to be sincere (and this is a daily warning for each of us too!)
I was thinking about something I heard last weekend (when reading 33:7-9. Nobody asks to be a prophet. It's tremendously serious work - - and the consequences are not always pleasant. The responsibility that falls on them, of faithfully speaking truth or being held responsibly for people's death. I guess that might also be true for pastors today? That's a huge responsibility. and . . . taking it one step further -- I guess it's true for each person believing in Jesus; to share the news of salvation - - I need to think on this more.
Doncha love 34:11-16; almost sounds like the 23rd Psalm restated (I had to think it through - - who came first, David or Ezekiel; I decided David did, since it sounds like Ez is a captive in Babylon) I also liked 35:21-22; where God lines Himself up with the scrawny sheep, their protector and defender.
Hey Sher -- 36:33-36 reminded me of what we studied about the 2nd coming last Th. Maybe this is a prophecy not only for Israel, but for Christians. The New Heaven and Earth that He prepares for us will replace the "fields that used to lie empty and desolate" (vs 34) When it talks about the "surrounding nations that survive will know" (vs 36) He might be talking about the other words that are watching how things play out in the planet. I don't know if there's anything to that (double prophecy idea) -- but it popped into my mind as I was reading:)
The widow in 21 gave more in a couple of ways -- because she sacrificed; it was proportionally more than people giving out of their excess -- but what an inspiration to millions of people to live in a spirit of generosity.
Hard to sort out pieces of 21 that refer to the destruction of Jerusalem, and the end of the world. It sounds like 25-28 is the end of the world - - I guess the parting shot is that no matter what generation you live in . . . go to vs 34-36 "Watch out! Don't let your hearts be dulled by carousing and drunkennes, and by the worries of this life. Don't let that day catch you unaware . . .
I spent some time thinking about Judas. The leading priests sound like they buddied up to him, stroking his ego - - promising him wealth and being "in" with them. I can imagine them slapping him on the back, proposing a toast to him -- pretty heady stuff from the top leaders of the country. You can bet Satan was right in the middle of the whole thing. Then back Judas goes to the passover meal, where he's promised the life of a servant. Satan really knows how to play the moment . . . so important to stay close to Jesus and not get caught up in the promises of the world.
In 22:31 Jesus let's Simon know that he will repent and turn again after his fall. That he's to use this time to strengthen his brothers - - I wonder if Peter remembered this after his rejection of Jesus?
I wonder if Jesus told them to invest in swords for the coming persecution ahead, after his death? I'd never read this little verse before. Maybe the disciples mis-interpreted his meaning to needed a sword for protection at the moment. Obviously they were not to use their swords to protect Jesus (51)
Verse 61 has a special meaning for me. There was a time in my life where I felt I betrayed Jesus -- and I had a dream about this time in his crucifixion - - only Jesus turned and looked at me. I was the Peter in my dream. What a compassionate Savior we have -- He is on our side, even when we let Him down. His greatest desire is that we repent, turn to Him, and strengthen our brothers (takes us back to verse 32.
Enjoyed reading your comments Linda! MSG says the widow gave "extravagantly" because she gave her all. Like you said, it has inspired countless millions, what moment that will be in heaven for her to see what her example (that she tried to hide) has done. God is gonna have so much fun sharing stuff like that with His people.
God being our Protector & Defender again in 18/19 "every detail of your body and soul—even the hairs of your head!—is in my care; nothing of you will be lost..." Our characters are the only thing we take with us to heaven. People can kill the body but they can't tarnish our characters, only our reputations, but the real me, God's got that & in the end He will be justified in saving me. I will come forth as gold. Like Job said.
v34 says "don't let the sharp edge of your expectation get dulled by (life)" Great word pic. I've been in expectation of things, on the edge of my seat, ready...ready...ready...& when it doesn't happen in what I think is the time it should, then I get lazy & listless - definitely not alert.
Great thoughts about Judas & the priests. I was thinking how Jesus didn't try to make His way of sacrifice measure up to theirs. He simply spoke the Truth of what it meant to follow Him. Sometimes we try to make it sound like we're gonna be rich n famous to compete with the world. Or we try to have that look. While there's nothing wrong with $$, it's the pretense that's in error. Jesus didn't even try to make His apple be an orange to compare with their oranges. He said in effect, I'm an apple, they're an orange; your choice. That's refreshing.
And yes, Linda, I can relate to 22:61 as well. I believe one of the reasons God had it written so we would understand the compassion He has on us when He forgives us so we would be that compassionate & not judgmental on others. It's a very powerful verse.
What a GREAT reading today! and that's good -- because we know that tomorrow is Leviticus!!!
ReplyDeleteset my sights on the realities of heaven . . . think about the things of heaven, not the things of earth. I love Paul's call to keep looking up; don't get bogged down in the petty problems and discouragements here -- we have THERE to focus on!
Quite a contrast of emotions in 3:8 and 3:12-14
8 says get rid of anger, rage, malicious behavior, slander, and dirty language - - don't lie (these are often emotions that we ignor -- not as visible as say sexual immorality or addictions - - but they are just as destructive to us)
Instead, God holds out the clothes of being: tenderhearted, mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, making allowance for each other's faults and forgiveness. Who WOULDN'T want to be around someone with clothes like that??
I also appreciated Paul's look at greed up in vs. 5. A week or so ago, I came to the same conclusion; that greed is a form of idolatry - - and that's part of the big 10!
You are called to live in peace and always be thankful! LOVE it! Now -- Holy Spirit, change me, because I'm not that way naturally!
I know a lot of women don't like 3:18. It makes perfect sense to me, though. If you look back to Genesis 3:16, part of the effects of sin was that the woman would "desire to control her husband" I see it all the time, in myself - and in others. A desire to control the situation, the family, the husband -- Paul says - - learn to submit. But if you look at ANY of these relationships here (husband/wife, father/son, slave/master) It's always a two-way street.
When there is respect and love on the husband's part - it's then much easier to open up, trust - submit (not a whole lot different from our relationship with God -- when we are aware of His love for us, His respect toward us; then we are able to take the steps of submission and abandonment toward Him!)
This submission on a woman's part, and love and respect on a man's part is so un-natural - - sin has corrupted us; but God wants to change us from the self-centered into the serving each other with love and respect and Him at the center!
I appreciate Paul's take (even though it's directed toward servants) on working for the Lord rather than for people. Puts a whole new spin on the daily duties of a job!
Finally - - I want to devote myself more to prayer and thankfulness! Where those 2 exist - - greed and self-centeredness are exploded out of the life:)
My heart just wasn't in today's reading. About the only thing that really spoke to me was in Col 4:3-4 where Paul is asking for prayer so that he can proclaim the mystery concerning Christ.
ReplyDeleteThere’s no indication here that he has any self pity or bitterness or anger towards God because he's in prison. Had I been in that place, I would have said--- Why me, Lord?
I would have been saying things like---God's forgotten me, or I must have sinned or--- “Satan has really won this time.
The other thing I was thinking about is that Paul was asking the people for prayer.
When we ask people to pray for us they usually nod their head and say they will. Then they go out and Immediately forget about it. People usually don't pray unless they have a relative or friend who is dying or unless they are prayer warriors. Unfortunately,This seems to be an area of dishonesty among Christians.
Getting to this a bit late due to travel BUT I did read it yesterday too.
ReplyDeleteI too liked the part about looking up. See things from Christ's perspective, you have a new life, now act like it. Don't drag along like same ol' same ol.
And then when Christ comes back, the REAL, NEW me will be there too - changed to immortality instantly. But until then Paul says, be content with obscurity. I don't need to attract attention, I need to surrender to what God wants for me in each moment. Definitely a learning curve for me.
And if I'm in this new life, then I need to stop doing the things of death, which are a way of living by feelings & things instead of by God. The God of the Possible I repeat to myself over & over again.
And in 3:11 everyone is now defined by Christ. Wow, I really like that! No more judging by what I see, I give that to Jesus & ask Him to show me them thru His eyes. Really interesting thought as I traveled today & encountered people. I'm blown away that He doesn't get overwhelmed with all of us.
4:5,6 Paul says to make the most of every opportunity we're given. To be gracious in speech. "he goal is to bring out the best in others in a conversation, not put them down, not cut them out" or cut them up. I really need to work on this when I am wronged or think I am wronged. It's hard to be gracious. Almost read a whole book on the flights though that made me think more on the subject as well.
Good stuff!
Man - I'm in the same boat with BOTH of you! If I'd have been in prison, I would have been having a hard time with trust. The story of Joseph and his spirit and trust has always been one of my favs.
ReplyDeleteAlso, Chris - I'm there with you in looking at others through the eyes of Jesus. Not putting them down, but building them UP! Help me Holy Spirit - - please!
Yeah, Sherrie, that was a good thought about how Paul was not thinking of "poor me" in prison. For all of his bluntness & sharpness it seems at times, he really cared more about other people.
ReplyDeleteSo Leviticus...well, obviously sinning is a big deal & the solemnity of the Day of Atonement was to impress that upon the people. I'm sure the rituals got to be just that though rituals. And we're no better today. We don't realize sometimes what sin costs & we sorta blow it off.
I like how God makes the point in 18 about being different than those who don't know God. We're not to conform but to be transformed as Paul says in Romans 12:1,2. And then He lists the specifics so there'd be no wondering what He meant. To be truly Christ-like is to be truly different.
and when you say "specifics" you mean "specifics" Gross! How can man even come up with that stuff? Interesting how it was sexual sin that was at the very core of defiling the land (vs 27) - - sounds familiar - - take a look at the media that fuels children and adults today; not a pretty picture.
ReplyDeleteI liked how in 16:2 it talked about the place where atonement (peace) is made - - is in the very presence of God:)
Looking at the 2 goats. I've heard before that the goat that was sacrificed represented Jesus, and the scapegoat that was, in the end, loaded with all the sins was Satan. If this illustration is true -- I wonder why God used goats? Usually you think about God as the Lamb of God. Maybe it's because in the end time -- he separates people into the "sheep" and the "goats" - - and, when Jesus took on our sins, it made him a goat - - again I am humbled that he would give up being a sheep and take on my goatedness, so I could be a sheep if I choose. Lord, help me not to ever take that choice lightly or for granted, and thank You!!
O! and Chris -- this is one of the Sabbaths you were talking about (Lev 16:31) that Paul referred to in Col 2:16! This wasn't THE Sabbath of creation and the big 10 -- this was a ceremonial Sabbath. It HAD to be different than the 7th day, as in vs 29 it says it comes on the 10th day of the month -- so it would have been on any given day of the week! Cool!
There is something important about "the blood" in 17:11-12 "It is the blood, given in exchange for a life, that makes purification possible." Any thoughts on that? Is blood still symbolic of something sacred and holy today? or was this part of a ceremony that isn't relevant today?
Linda, MSG didn't even refer to it as a sabbath, it just said a holy day. I think God referred to it as a sabbath just so the people would understand how it was to be observed.
ReplyDeleteAs for blood - I think all religions, even in pagan circles, recognize the life being in the blood. If you look at the different rites of pagan & Native American cultures, there's a lot of things happening with blood that recognize the power of life in it.
Today's reading was another rise & fall of powers theme. I think it was neat that Joash was hidden for so long & protected. The people must have really hated his aunt. No one stood up for her it seems.
I wonder if Elisha asked God if he was gonna go the same way Elijah went. I doubt it, he was totally committed to whatever God wanted from/for him.
The guy who came back to life when he landed on Elisha's body must have really freaked everyone out pretty good. He must have had a hard time convincing people who he was. But maybe they weren't as cynical as we are today & they were used to more miracles.
I would have liked to have seen little 7 year old Joash climbing up on that throne! Joash must have been very teachable -- even when he hit his teen-age years, it seems like he was willing to listen to and work with Jehoida.
ReplyDeleteI was wondering why, if Joash followed God and pleased him, did he feel he needed to send all the sacred stuff and gold to Hazael? Why didn't he ask the Lord for advice, or maybe he did - and it doesn't say that (what would David have done?)
All the leaders of Judah in this section pretty much did what pleased God -- except they didn't destroy those pagan shrines -- so they allowed their people to continue sinning - - maybe they were people pleasers. I think our country's leaders try to be people pleasers too -- trying to keep everyone happy, so evil can sprout all over the place.
Even though the kings were pleasing God for the most part -- some of them were murdered - - sad. Seems like if you murdered someone, you automatically became the next king. Didn't they have any kind of court system that punished people for murder? If someone here tries to shoot the president - they go to jail. I guess in some countries though, you can overthrow a government - - guess that was what happened here.
I really got into 2 Kings 11:17-18 where Jehoiada makes a covenant with the Lord and goes in and destroys the temple of Baal and the priest of Baal. I, myself, decree my covenants with the Lord every day so that I can go into the enemy's territory and tear down his idols. I get a powerful download in my brain from the vivid picture that is described in this verse.
ReplyDeleteThen we get to chapters 12,13,14 and 15 where 4 times it says something to the effect -----and he didn't destroy the shrines on the hills---the people still sacrificed and burned incense there. There is supernatural power in those shrines on the hills where the people still worshiped other gods. You don't worship an idol if you're not getting something in return.
I used to walk to the top of the hill on a little island called Shikanoshima in Japan. Along the pathway enshrouded in the greenery were little shrines containing a fat little Buddha. These little shrines could be found everywhere.
In fact, they're probably still there to this day. There's power in those shrines.
I love Chapter 13 where as soon as a dead body touches Elisha's dead body--Elisha comes back to life. He's just zapped alive! So cool! In these last days there are many supernatural things happening. Living the Christian life is extremely boring if we aren't living in the supernatural. I'm glad that I get to be alive at this time. I hope I have the privilege of seeing someone raised from the dead soon.
Interesting thoughts ladies. I wondered some of those things as well Linda, with people just killing the kings right n left & no retribution it seems. But they did die pretty quick themselves too. And why Joash didn't pray to God? I don't know, but why don't I always ask Him for help instead of figuring it out on my own.
ReplyDeleteSherrie, what version are you reading that made it sound like Elisha was the one brought back to life?
Today the MSG paraphrase really puts some nice spins on these psalms.
84:5 "And how blessed all those in whom You live, whose lives become roads You travel..." Just puts God living in us, directing our lives when we surrender to Him in a different light for me. It goes on to say how much is discovered with God in us. I think that is because we're seeing things through His eyes which goes back to what Paul was saying on Sunday in Colossians.
v10 "One day spent in your house, this beautiful place of worship, beats thousands spent on Greek island beaches". To be able to sing praise to my God & spend time in His presence is more refreshing & fulfilling then time on a gorgeous beach!
85:6 "Why not help us make a fresh start—a resurrection life? Then your people will laugh and sing!" It's just the natural result of surrender to Him, that lifts our burdens & our hearts in gratitude. Praise has to happen in one form or another.
86 at first sounds like David is holding up his life as deserving of help from God. But then he says that he always comes to God when he's in trouble because he's confident of the help he'll receive. Nice.
I wonder what it'd be like here on earth if we had a parade like David's talking about in v8-10. All showboating God & His goodness. Not trying to outdo each other to draw attention to themselves but thoroughly enjoying what each one had to say about Him, what He's done for them & letting each have their moment to praise Him.
v12 "Put me together, one heart and mind; then undivided, I'll worship in joyful fear." To serve with an undivided heart, it's something only God can do in me - a new heart/mind.
Love how it ends too! Asking God to be the white knight! Requesting a show of love for His child! "Make a show of how much you love me so the bullies who hate me will stand there slack-jawed, as you, God, gently and powerfully put me back on my feet."
You can't beat the MSG for word pics! I went back comparing all those texts you quoted -- really put so simply and artfully to make you take a second look.
ReplyDelete"What joy for those whose strength comes from the Lord. who have set their minds on a pilgrimage" David finishes this with a pilgrimage to Jerusalem -- but I think it fits on our pilgrimage to live with Him (either presently or in the future in heaven) Reminds me of Paul when he talks about keeping our minds on our heavenly home (not sure where that is)
84:6 When I walk through the Valley of Weeping, it will become a place of refreshing springs . . . continue to grow stronger. Really true -- tough to hold hands with sorrow and suffering, but that's when you grow and begin the climb to the high places.
85:2 "Yes, you covered all their sins" I got a word picture here of God putting his hand over our sins so He wouldn't see them. Kind of like if I have a scar on my hand (I don't, but trying to explain) and I cover it with my other hand so I don't have to look at the ugliness.
85:8 "He speaks peace to his faithful people" something we're all after, peace. And I love gentle people that speak peacefully to me -- not roughly or condemninglly.
86:4 Give happiness, O Lord, for I give myself to you! The two are connected. We relax in His love and peace = HAPPINESS!
86:11 The words that spoke the most to me this morning: 'Teach me your ways, O Lord; that I may live according to your truths." Not the truths I conjure up -- but Your forever truths. I want God's truth and love to be a part of who I am - - only possible by His Holy Spirit power and guidance and humility and teachability from me.
Really liked the "undivided" heart phrase the message used. Mine says with all my heart -- but I think undivided fits better; so many times I feel like maybe giving a piece and splitting the attention and worship in another area -- NOPE, not good enough -- He asks, hopes, desires ALL! It's what He gave for me! I'm constantly amazed at my ingratitude and lack of love. I long for the full-time love commitment to become second nature in my heart - - no distractions; an undivided heart.
Wow Chris---I was reading the Living Bible yesterday, but after reading other versions---It doesn't look like Elisha came back to life---it was the dead man who came back to life! I'm glad you pointed that out to me. Either way ---a dead guy came back to life. On a side note--Some Christians think it's easier to pray a dead person back to life if the body isn't cold yet---somehow, I just don't think it matters to the Lord how long the person has been dead.
ReplyDeleteNow onto Psalms 84:1 in the Living Bible. It says --"O Lord of the armies of Heaven". (not hosts---but armies of heaven.) I love this imagery of warring angels hanging out in heaven to do battle for us.
Vs:2 "And I faint with longing to be able to enter your courtyard and come near the Living God." I know the feeling of getting so caught up in the love and presence of the Lord that I just want to be one with Him. And now since Jesus died on the Cross and shed His blood, I can now enter into His courts. I can come into the Holy place which this writer couldn't do.
Psalms 85:6 where it says "Oh Lord,revive us" has special meaning for me. There have been times in my life when things were so awful that I couldn't breathe for myself. I would literally forget to breathe. The Lord had to put me on life support and Breathe for me and revive me.
Psalms 86:8--"Where among the heathen gods is there a god like you? Where are their miracles? I'm so thankful that we worship a miracle working God. I believe that many of our young people are fascinated by Harry Potter and the world of supernatural online games and Satanisn because our churches today are dead. Churches have lost the power of the Holy Spirit and the supernatural. And young people hunger for that inside. If they can't get it from God, then they'll get it from Satan.
nice thoughts to come back & read today, thanks for sharing ladies!
ReplyDeleteIt seems like some of Proverbs would be common sense but we live in such a selfish world that we're just going downhill morally. A lot of 11 reminded me of living with my arms open to God & being filled with Him so that I'm a blessing to others instead of a burden.
ReplyDeleteI love the bluntness of some of 11 though: v22 - "Like a gold ring in a pig's snout is a beautiful face on an empty head".
Which takes me to 12:1 which I have always liked because the Bible uses the word stupid to describe people who don't like to be corrected or disciplined. It ain't fun, but it's so necessary. MSG says "If you love learning, you love the discipline that goes with it— how shortsighted to refuse correction!" Again, can't say I LOVE it & a lot depends on the way it's delivered but, if I can pull back & see the big picture instead of my hurt pride then I can receive it better.
12:23 "Prudent people don't flaunt their knowledge; talkative fools broadcast their silliness." I think this goes along with the saying of "if you don't know better to keep your mouth shut than to open it & remove all doubt" or something to that affect. I need to remember these more, I remove way too much doubt sometimes! LOL
Yup! I underlined 12:1 too as a reminder to pleeeeease welcome discipline (I don't think I've made it as far as loving either)
ReplyDeleteHere are some words for the people that God is working with -- that LOVE His discipline:
humble, honest, hopeful, knowledgable, honored by others, sensible, trustworthy, considers advice,stays out of debt, gracious, kind, have integrity, generous, has friends, loves discipline, God-approved, stable, plan ahead, admired, take care of their animals, hard worker, content, work hard, listen to others, stays calm when insulted, tells the truth, speak healing words, discreet, give good advice, live green.
That's the kind of person I'd like to be - - and to have as a next door neighbor!! But, as you say Chris, we live in a selfish world that pulls us down. Only Holy Spirit power can protect us from ourselves.
Also -- I liked 12:19. I have a saying that is: the truth always comes out in the end. Sometimes, when you're not sure about a situation -- wait; it usually becomes clear with time.
waiting is not my strong suit, but you're right Linda, it does eventually come out. But to have to wait until the end? Wow, just shows God's incredible patience with us.
ReplyDeleteI wonder if Ezekiel was getting discouraged with his job & so in 33 God makes sure he understands the importance of being the watchman & his responsibilities.
ReplyDeleteSo much for the "once saved, always saved" proponents. I've always thought they've negated freedom of choice with that but in 33:12-16 God makes it clear that we have a choice to make daily to die to self (as Paul also says).
33:21,22 I remember reading something about Ezekiel not being able to speak, but all the stuff God has been saying to prophesy he wasn't able to say until now? Kinda confusing. What did you guys get out of it?
Starting at v25 in the MSG it sounds like God's describing the US & how we live now, all the willful sins, murder, & thinking we're all that. But we will be brought down & face judgment. And hopefully a lot will be humbled & (re)turn to God.
I like God firing the religious leaders who only are in it for themselves. And as you pointed out Linda, the truth comes out eventually. We see a lot of high profile pastors that are exposed for the selfish, money hungry, etc., etc., these days. Some of them don't even make the headlines anymore it's so rampant. Really sad.
But I like that God says He'll take care of His sheep & restore them since the leaders don't. And what about how the sheep act amongst themselves. I wondered about the word pic of muddying the pure water. Was that referring to how we twist His Word at times or misrepresent Him to others thru our words/actions? Very interesting.
Great restoration promises & all because God's glorifying His name! It's nothing we've done, it's all about Him! So very true!
Ezekiel was a watchman for the people of Israel to warn them that if they didn't repent, then the enemy was coming and they would be destroyed. Chris--I believe that Ezekiel couldn't speak for a time because he hadn't yet received any message from the Lord. I myself am learning to wait upon the Lord:-- to know when to speak and when not to speak, when to go places, when not to go places, to have divine appts and to be delivered daily from people that I shouldn't have contact with because of their negative words.
ReplyDeleteI love Ezekiel 33:25 where the Lord God says "you are powerless..." Many times we think we have everything under control and God says--Oh yeah?--Let me show you how much control you have!
Sheesh---when I read Ezek.33:30-33 it sounded like many churches I'be been in during recent years.
People whispering behind your back, seeming sincere and sweet to your face, talking about loving the Lord. Hah----I was just entertainment to them as it says in vs.32.
And in Chapter 34----Woe to the Shephards who feed themselves instead of their flocks. Wow---this is happening everywhere I look. It's almost unbelievable. Men and women of God who used to preach the word whom I respected so much are now openly sinning and STILL preaching. Whatever happened to holiness? So many people today who call themselves Christians don't know the word of God. They don't even know the basics.
WOW ladies! It sounds like all 3 of us came to the same conclusion on Ez 33:30-33. A present-day warning to what's going on around us here in the US. They listen to words, but have no intention of doing them. Sometimes going to religious events to be entertained instead of for a revival and a turning from sins; pretending to be sincere (and this is a daily warning for each of us too!)
ReplyDeleteI was thinking about something I heard last weekend (when reading 33:7-9. Nobody asks to be a prophet. It's tremendously serious work - - and the consequences are not always pleasant. The responsibility that falls on them, of faithfully speaking truth or being held responsibly for people's death. I guess that might also be true for pastors today? That's a huge responsibility. and . . . taking it one step further -- I guess it's true for each person believing in Jesus; to share the news of salvation - - I need to think on this more.
Doncha love 34:11-16; almost sounds like the 23rd Psalm restated (I had to think it through - - who came first, David or Ezekiel; I decided David did, since it sounds like Ez is a captive in Babylon) I also liked 35:21-22; where God lines Himself up with the scrawny sheep, their protector and defender.
Hey Sher -- 36:33-36 reminded me of what we studied about the 2nd coming last Th. Maybe this is a prophecy not only for Israel, but for Christians. The New Heaven and Earth that He prepares for us will replace the "fields that used to lie empty and desolate" (vs 34) When it talks about the "surrounding nations that survive will know" (vs 36) He might be talking about the other words that are watching how things play out in the planet. I don't know if there's anything to that (double prophecy idea) -- but it popped into my mind as I was reading:)
The widow in 21 gave more in a couple of ways -- because she sacrificed; it was proportionally more than people giving out of their excess -- but what an inspiration to millions of people to live in a spirit of generosity.
ReplyDeleteHard to sort out pieces of 21 that refer to the destruction of Jerusalem, and the end of the world. It sounds like 25-28 is the end of the world - - I guess the parting shot is that no matter what generation you live in . . . go to vs 34-36 "Watch out! Don't let your hearts be dulled by carousing and drunkennes, and by the worries of this life. Don't let that day catch you unaware . . .
I spent some time thinking about Judas. The leading priests sound like they buddied up to him, stroking his ego - - promising him wealth and being "in" with them. I can imagine them slapping him on the back, proposing a toast to him -- pretty heady stuff from the top leaders of the country. You can bet Satan was right in the middle of the whole thing. Then back Judas goes to the passover meal, where he's promised the life of a servant. Satan really knows how to play the moment . . . so important to stay close to Jesus and not get caught up in the promises of the world.
In 22:31 Jesus let's Simon know that he will repent and turn again after his fall. That he's to use this time to strengthen his brothers - - I wonder if Peter remembered this after his rejection of Jesus?
I wonder if Jesus told them to invest in swords for the coming persecution ahead, after his death? I'd never read this little verse before. Maybe the disciples mis-interpreted his meaning to needed a sword for protection at the moment. Obviously they were not to use their swords to protect Jesus (51)
Verse 61 has a special meaning for me. There was a time in my life where I felt I betrayed Jesus -- and I had a dream about this time in his crucifixion - - only Jesus turned and looked at me. I was the Peter in my dream. What a compassionate Savior we have -- He is on our side, even when we let Him down. His greatest desire is that we repent, turn to Him, and strengthen our brothers (takes us back to verse 32.
Enjoyed reading your comments Linda! MSG says the widow gave "extravagantly" because she gave her all. Like you said, it has inspired countless millions, what moment that will be in heaven for her to see what her example (that she tried to hide) has done. God is gonna have so much fun sharing stuff like that with His people.
ReplyDeleteGod being our Protector & Defender again in 18/19 "every detail of your body and soul—even the hairs of your head!—is in my care; nothing of you will be lost..." Our characters are the only thing we take with us to heaven. People can kill the body but they can't tarnish our characters, only our reputations, but the real me, God's got that & in the end He will be justified in saving me. I will come forth as gold. Like Job said.
v34 says "don't let the sharp edge of your expectation get dulled by (life)" Great word pic. I've been in expectation of things, on the edge of my seat, ready...ready...ready...& when it doesn't happen in what I think is the time it should, then I get lazy & listless - definitely not alert.
Great thoughts about Judas & the priests. I was thinking how Jesus didn't try to make His way of sacrifice measure up to theirs. He simply spoke the Truth of what it meant to follow Him. Sometimes we try to make it sound like we're gonna be rich n famous to compete with the world. Or we try to have that look. While there's nothing wrong with $$, it's the pretense that's in error. Jesus didn't even try to make His apple be an orange to compare with their oranges. He said in effect, I'm an apple, they're an orange; your choice. That's refreshing.
And yes, Linda, I can relate to 22:61 as well. I believe one of the reasons God had it written so we would understand the compassion He has on us when He forgives us so we would be that compassionate & not judgmental on others. It's a very powerful verse.