I was amused by Luke 23:12 where in my Bible it says that Herod and Pilate were enemies before, but on that day (when Jesus was brought before them) they became fast friends. It's amazing how bonds are formed when leaders who can't agree on anything will suddenly agree when the topic is about mocking Jesus.
In Luke 23:35, "The Jewish leaders laughed and scoffed. He was so good at helping others, let's see Him save himself, if He really is the Messiah." I had someone mock me today and my belief in Jesus. They cursed using the name of Jesus while having a conversation with me. I said "you don't curse the name of my Lord Jesus Christ while you're in my presence! I said you can curse Allah or Satan or any other god, but you will not curse the name of my Lord Jesus while you're around me." The person said yeah---"I see how following Jesus has worked out for you. You've been through hell, you have nothing to live on, you're constantly struggling, What has Jesus ever done for you?" But they walked away before I could say anything.
I say a victory for Jesus happened through your willingness to stand for Him! Who knows what that other person will do with that conversation; even if you weren't able to make a comeback -- the Holy Spirit can work through your words.
1 Thes 4:11 I love the words live a quiet life, minding your own business and working with your hands - - others will respect you, you won't need to depend on others. It reminds me of the early life of Jesus -- quietly going about His work in the carpenter's shop, honestly -- hard working, other's respecting who He was and what He did -- great example.
There is a call in these 2 chapters to treat others fairly, lovingly, with respect. That's how Christians should be -- it doesn't always work out that way, and is a dishonor to God's name when Christians treat others with disrespect etc.
I looked quite awhile @ 4:14 -18. I know that 4:14 is used to show that Jesus will come back to earth with his believers. However, it all depends on "where" Jesus is returning to -- is it earth or heaven. Mine says, "when Jesus returns, God will bring back with him the believers who have died.
I think that 14 -18 is a repeat and expand text. It takes vs 14 and shows how it all plays out. If that is truly the case -- then Jesus is returning to heaven with the believers who have died.
I like it that Paul tells us to be on our guard - -and clearheaded, protected by the armor of the Spirit. That's daily walking with Him.
AND - I love 5:16 Always be joyful, Never stop praying, be thankful in all circumstances -- this is God's WILL for you! He wants us to have JOY! to depend on HIM! to be full of generous gratitude! Who wouldn't want THAT?? a good way to start this week!!
I too liked all the words of counsel that Paul gives to them to live as good Christians, people who show that Jesus is alive & living in them (fruits of the Spirit, the real test if someone has the HS or not). Some of them are easy to say but can be hard to put into practice. Like snapping at each other when we get on each other's nerves. It's gonna happen, but what will I do?
I like 4:2 where Paul encourages the people to live the Christian life "not in a dogged religious plod, but in a living, spirited dance". Just makes me SMILE!
The last part of 4 is so clear on what happens when Jesus comes a 2nd time (not 3rd or 4th) & that people who died will be raised then. I mean, why would Jesus have them go from heaven back to the grave to be raised in a big show if they were already up in heaven like some believe. It just doesn't make sense. But I know some have never studied things for themselves & just take the twist the pastor is saying. And some pastors have never fully studied things out, they just take what their seminary teachers tell them as truth.
It's like the counsel Paul gives in 5:19-22 "Don't suppress the Spirit, and don't stifle those who have a word from the Master. On the other hand, don't be gullible. Check out everything, and keep only what's good. Throw out anything tainted with evil". I have to be willing to put aside my own ideas & things I've been taught & just take the Word & see what it says. It has to jive cover to cover, I can't take it out of context just to make myself feel comfortable in what I believe.
I was thinking how specific God was to the Israelites about everything that dealt with Him & His worship. To me it seems like just drudgery. But then I think of heaven & how the angels in Rev. just seem to delight in worshiping God & are in awe of His Presence. Hebrews says that Jesus is the same yesterday, today & forever.
I realize that He had to retrain them from the pagan worship in Egypt to holy worship and impress upon them His Holiness. I guess I have 2 thoughts/questions from all this.
1 - The manner in which I worship God today; do I realize how holy He is & do I set apart things for Him or do I just try to get by with maybe a "wounded or bruised animal" so to speak?
2 - How do I reconcile all the minute specifics (because I get weighed down with all this detail) & the joy that comes from spending time in His Presence? Seems like it's one way or the other. And I've been on the drudgery side of things & it wasn't fun, it was duty. Now I'm experiencing the joy of worship both personal & corporate.
I'm tired of ditches, Jesus, please keep my eyes on You so I can be balanced.
I love how God watches out for the underdog -- notice in 22:10 that a servant and his family gets the same perks as the priest!! and then later on it talks about leaving grain for the poor and foreigner. Then I need to ask, do I watch out for those people, or just figure they'll make it somehow.
God knows how we're wired -- the tendancy to go go go -- and focus on ourselves. Kindof cool that He proclaimed festivals! Times to stop; absolutely no work (sounds like vacation to me) and then to worship Him and give to Him (O! typically vacation is all about us -- maybe I need to rethink vacation!) Who wouldn't want to stop working with no guilt attached? I love my weekly Sabbath, and I love a God who plans out festivals! But -- as you say Chris, lots of details in the festivals. I wouldn't have wanted to be a priest. I wonder how sanguine priests ever focused enough to get it right?
A couple of the feasts (Day of Atonement and Festival of Shelters) they were instructed to keep doing those from generation to generation (23:31, 41) I know we often say the day of Atonement was fulfilled at the cross - - but what about the festival of shelters that looked back. Was that one actually cancelled out by Jesus' sacrifice?
Hey Sher -- you let that guy off easy that used Jesus' name in vain the other day! God doesn't take it lightly, so we shouldn't either. But I'm not sure I'm going to start packing around rocks!
Bummer Sherrie! I do what Linda suggested as well, cause you never know....
I like reading history so going thru the kings of Judah was interesting. Glad they had a least one good king in Josiah. He could have read that book & thought, but nothing's really happening so it must not matter much - but he didn't. He could have stopped & not torn everything down after the prophetess said he'd be ok in his reign, but he didn't. Shows that his heart was really touched & convicted. Actions do speak louder than words.
It's amazing how far the apple can fall from the tree -- both ways; either an evil dad and a dedicated son, or a dedicated dad and an evil son.
So great to read the story of Josiah (23:3) I love how everyone rallied behind him. One good leader can make all the difference for a country (the opposite as well). I bet there was great JOY in the Passover that he celebrated!
All the kings were so young when they took over; I guess they didn't live that long back then - but with age comes wisdom (sometimes) - -
Did anyone else wonder what Jehoiachin did to get into the good graces of Evil-merodach (what a lousy name).
Thanx guys for your info and insight. Linda, for me the Feast of Trumpets represents the Rapture of the church. While this feast happens in the late fall, (Sept, Oct, or Nov) you'll notice that it's the only feast that doesn't have an exact date that it falls on every year. (No man shall know the date and hour when your Lord is coming--Matt:24)
Now onto Kings--- In these chapters, I see continuous warfare. We begin with Manasseh who rebuilt the hilltop shrines, the altars to Baal, and the Asherah idol. Then he put sun gods, star gods, moon gods into Gods Temple! Can you see our church building filled with astrology signs, and little ceramic naked gods --some of them depicted having sex---placed everywhere on stage where you two sing and play music? This guy creeps me out. Then he sacrificed one of his sons on an altar. Now that is how you acquire some REAL power in the Satanic world. This guy wasn't just playing with demonic spirits---this guy was powerful! I think that's why in vs 14, God says he will not only wipe out Jerusalem, but will reject even those people that still follow the Lord. The Lords own people were probably contaminated with demonic spirits and under their influence because of Manasseh's power.
Then we have Josiah who followed the Lord completely. Josiah gets rid of all the idols, satanic altars, is obedient to the Lord, humbles himself and repents---but it wasn't enough to prevent the Lords destruction of the country. The Lord was still angry from the evil that his father Manasseh had done and Josiah was killed! Apparantly this follows in the tradition of the sins of the father following down even into the 3rd and 4th generation. Though Josiah was a godly man, he was carrying a generational satanic curse. That's one reason why those of us who are of a Full Gospel or Charismatic background are so big on breaking generational curses.
LinDA SAID---"Did anyone else wonder what Jehoiachin did to get into the good graces of Evil-merodach (what a lousy name)."
I think in one of my earlier posts I mentioned that the Lord was teaching me about His favor and how to use the shield of favor in warfare. Psalm 5:12---His favor surrounds me today as a shield.
I think Jehoiachin knew how to acquire the favor of God and use it. Someone had taught him well.
I, myself decree favor over my life daily by speaking Gods Word out of Psalms. A decree is a harsh judgment issued against a defeated enemy (satan) that cannot be revoked. (Gods word will not return void) So I speak Gods word out loud over my life daily. Witches and warlocks do this daily with words, but its called a curse.
Anyway---just a brief teaching on another of my beliefs that I'm sure is different than yours.
You know Sherrie, I learned in counseling the power of the spoken word. Fortunately, I saw Cross come between me & what had been spoken into me, believed by me & broken by the power of Jesus & speaking His Truth into my life. Now in the words of a song & the Word ..."who the Son sets free must believe they're free indeed..." I have to re-speak the Truth at times to remind me when old habits of thought patterns start to sneak in or get a foot hold. It may be new to me, but I see it is Biblical & powerful too! Thanks for sharing again about it!
I can see Moses writing 90 during the 40 yrs they had to wander in the desert & after he struck the Rock instead of speaking to it.
v14 "Surprise us with love at daybreak; then we'll skip and dance all the day long." I really am blessed when I see sunrises, I just feel like I'm being hugged by God as I watch Him paint them for me so I really enjoy this word pic by Moses.
91 has so many promises for us to claim but it hinges on v14 "I'll give you the best of care if you'll only get to know and trust me". I'm thinking this is the heart of any successful relationship. Getting to know someone & trusting them. For me I think if I can do this with God, then it gets easier for me to do this with people.
92 is very full of praise & how appropriate that it's titled a Sabbath song. It's such a blessing to be able to enter God's house (or anywhere) on Sabbath & praise God, either by myself or with friends.
v4,5 "You made me so happy, God I saw your work and I shouted for joy. How magnificent your work, God! How profound your thoughts!" AMEN!!!!
Festival of the Trumpets Sher! Maybe so! Maybe it was a feast to turn people to the 2nd coming of Christ. It's pretty obvious in 1 Thes 4:16 that there will be a trumpet blast when He comes:)
I agree with both of you; there is power in speaking/claiming the power of God over the power of the devil! It's pretty obvious in todays (Psalms) reading that He is our refuge!!
I didn't realize that Moses was part author of Psalms! Pretty cool!
Lord through all generations, you have been our home -- now that makes sense, since Moses and the Israelites were wanderers -- tents for them! God was their place of safety, rufuge, rest (all the things mentioned in 91:1-2)
90:12 Teach us to realize the brevity of life, so that we may grow in wisdom - - really important to remember. What's really important in this life? I'd say relationships. First our relationship with God, then our relationship with the people around us. Jesus gave us a perfect example of that.
91:4 (I wonder if Jesus was thinking about this verse in his cry in Matt 23:37)
91:9-10 If you make the Lord your refuge . . . no evil will conquer you. I know many Christians that have tough times come to their lives - - well, the disciples were prime examples of martyrdom. But I think what is being said here is that Christians may walk through tough times, but they are sheltered and protected with his peace, hope, and confidence. No one can take those away.
Finally, I was looking at 91:2 -- it's good to proclaim your unfailing love in the morning. your faithfulness in the evening. I really like that -- in the morning just to soak in His love to carry you through the day, then in the evening look back and realize how faithful He has been. Thank you, Lord for this Sabbath day song!!
Psalm 90:4--A thousand years are but as yesterday. Just a brief note on something I heard the other day about the millenium. I was told that man has lived nearly 6,000 yrs on earth. (6 days to God) So the millenium is the Gods 7th day of rest. (no satan) I loved hearing that--it made sense to me.
Psalm 90:17---there's that favor again that I'm learning so much about.
Ahhhh--Psalm 91---protects us from ANYTHING that the enemy can throw our way----this chapter covers it all. Vs.4--He shields me with his wings and His faithful promises are my armour. Tho thousands are dying around me---the evil wont touch me! His angels protect me wherever I go! I'm trampling the enemy under my feet! I have dominion! The Lord sets me on high!
Psalms 92:10 is awesome. (Amplified) says I have excessive strength and stately grace! And I am annointed with fresh oil----in other words--I have a new powerful annointing of the Holy Spirit! New miracles are going to manifest. New supernatural things are going to happen---I don't have to live and look back on the old miracles and supernatural things I've experienced---I'm also going to see new ones. Amen
So many good gems today! Love the Proverbs! Chris -- I'm thinking of you on the perch of Adams today! Sorry -- no fly by -- but I'm cheering you on!!
14:10 - - Each heart knows its own bitterness, and no one else can fully share its joy -- This is an interesting text; each of us has a path we must walk alone, no one will totally understand our feelings - - but we can all encourage each other on the way!
14:21 - - It's a sin to belittle one's neighbor; I never thought of it as a sin before - - pretty strong language. What a blessing though -- when EVERYONE things the best of each other; Jesus was certainly our example there - - it came out of a heart of love; Lord, please change me to look through eyes of love at everyone, even the people I don't want to love.
15 talks twice about gentle answers and gentle words (1,4) I find it easier to listen to people that speak the truth in love, and gently!
15:14 a wise person is hungry for knowledge - - yeah! that's what I want to be, not content with what I know, but always trying to learn more (I'm not there yet!)
I LOVE 15:15 for the despondent, every day brings trouble; for the happy heart, life is a continual feast! Bring on the feasting!! Push away despondancy!
16 A bowl of vegetables with someone you love is better than steak with someone you hate -- wow, truer words were never spoken - - but then, I think back to belittling my neighbor; I guess I don't eat with the ones I hate -- but I don't speak dispairingly about them either; keep my mouth shut and look for things to love!
18 The heart of the godly things carefully before speaking - - my prayer for today! Help me to think before I open my mouth!!!
Looks like you had some good brain cell growth in reading the last couple of days Linda. I'll have to read in Ezekiel to see what the deal is. Although I know Ezekiel was way after Moses. I'm guessing the priests forgot, go figure.
I really like the book of John. It shows me how Jesus interacted with people more & helps me see that He wants to with me as well.
1:12 is so perfect for me because as people received Jesus & believed Him for who He was "He made to be their true selves, their child-of-God selves". As I am accepting His love for me, He is making me His child. And I need to go back to being a child to learn to trust & believe Him with an open heart.
I wonder when John saw his 2 disciples go after Jesus if he felt a bit sad. I hadn't thought of it before. I know he gave a powerful witness to Jesus as God, but he was still human. Seems like he would be glad to point people to God but just a bit sad to lose friends. But I guess technically, he wasn't losing friends. I guess that would really just be an ego thing if he felt slighted or hurt. Doesn't seem like he was though, he was totally committed to what God had for him.
I've always like the end of 2 where John talks about how Jesus didn't entrust himself to people. He knew how fickle they/we are. He didn't get caught up in the attention, He just kept focused on what His Father's plan for Him was. People & so called "friends" will come & go, but He knew His Father would always be with Him because He loved Him. I am getting to that place too.
I was REALLY excited to see what you would post about 2:23-25; and I wasn't disappointed, Chris -- really well put about how friends would come and go -- not so different for all of us. And we people are always so wowed by the amazing (like the miracles) Even the miracles were temporary (people got sick again, died again, the juice ran out again) But God's faithfulness, his purpose for people -- that's forever!
I was wondering about John -- how do you go about describing your best earthly friend, who just happens to be God? The Man that changed you from a fisherman to a friend (I love alliteration). The man that pointed your direction from the sea to the Savior (see what I mean?)
So -- he used the term "Word" I spent some time thinking about that - God's desire to communicate with us -- the written Word, the spoken Word, the first and last Word -- it's all about a relationship. His communication was about unfailing love and faithfulness (14) who wouldn't want that communicated to them?
And here's John's take on his whole experience with Jesus (16) From His abundance we have all received one gracious blessing after another. You gotta love John - - and I was thinking what wonderful times John and Jesus would have hashing over old times -- I can just see them taking long walks. I can see all of the disciples having a dunking war in one of the rivers up there -- laughing, loving, being together. And we'll all be cheering them on!
Didya notice how twice in chapter one, the mode of bringing people to Jesus was the words "come and see" We just have to invite, we don't have to convince. His love and faithfulness will take care of the needs.
I've always liked the line spouted off by the head guy at the wedding "you have kept the best until now! If we wait on God's plan for our life -- the best will happen. We have our own little plans, and we do the best we can, but it's with Jesus power in our lives that the abundant life happens - - and we can exclaim too that "This is better!! than my plan!"
Nice that Jesus spent a few days with his mom and family -- letting them get to know his disciples, and let his disciples experience some of Mary's home cooking! I bet she was really thrilled.
It gives us a little insight into the discussions of the disciples in 2:22. They must have rehashed everything He said and made all the connections. And then it always amazes me how Jesus gave clues for them throughout His ministry. Like giving them puzzle pieces, and finally it would all come together for them as they kept fitting stuff together!
Hey Linda, I really was glad that you brought out the "Come & See" point. That is so important to remember, we only have to be willing, God is responsible for the rest!
I was amused by Luke 23:12 where in my Bible it says that Herod and Pilate were enemies before, but on that day (when Jesus was brought before them) they became fast friends. It's amazing how bonds are formed when leaders who can't agree on anything will suddenly agree when the topic is about mocking Jesus.
ReplyDeleteIn Luke 23:35, "The Jewish leaders laughed and scoffed. He was so good at helping others, let's see Him save himself, if He really is the Messiah."
I had someone mock me today and my belief in Jesus. They cursed using the name of Jesus while having a conversation with me. I said "you don't curse the name of my Lord Jesus Christ while you're in my presence! I said you can curse Allah or Satan or any other god, but you will not curse the name of my Lord Jesus while you're around me." The person said yeah---"I see how following Jesus has worked out for you. You've been through hell, you have nothing to live on, you're constantly struggling, What has Jesus ever done for you?" But they walked away before I could say anything.
I say a victory for Jesus happened through your willingness to stand for Him! Who knows what that other person will do with that conversation; even if you weren't able to make a comeback -- the Holy Spirit can work through your words.
ReplyDeleteThank you for making a difference Sher
1 Thes 4:11 I love the words live a quiet life, minding your own business and working with your hands - - others will respect you, you won't need to depend on others. It reminds me of the early life of Jesus -- quietly going about His work in the carpenter's shop, honestly -- hard working, other's respecting who He was and what He did -- great example.
ReplyDeleteThere is a call in these 2 chapters to treat others fairly, lovingly, with respect. That's how Christians should be -- it doesn't always work out that way, and is a dishonor to God's name when Christians treat others with disrespect etc.
I looked quite awhile @ 4:14 -18. I know that 4:14 is used to show that Jesus will come back to earth with his believers. However, it all depends on "where" Jesus is returning to -- is it earth or heaven. Mine says, "when Jesus returns, God will bring back with him the believers who have died.
I think that 14 -18 is a repeat and expand text. It takes vs 14 and shows how it all plays out. If that is truly the case -- then Jesus is returning to heaven with the believers who have died.
I like it that Paul tells us to be on our guard - -and clearheaded, protected by the armor of the Spirit. That's daily walking with Him.
AND - I love 5:16 Always be joyful, Never stop praying, be thankful in all circumstances -- this is God's WILL for you! He wants us to have JOY! to depend on HIM! to be full of generous gratitude! Who wouldn't want THAT?? a good way to start this week!!
I too liked all the words of counsel that Paul gives to them to live as good Christians, people who show that Jesus is alive & living in them (fruits of the Spirit, the real test if someone has the HS or not). Some of them are easy to say but can be hard to put into practice. Like snapping at each other when we get on each other's nerves. It's gonna happen, but what will I do?
ReplyDeleteI like 4:2 where Paul encourages the people to live the Christian life "not in a dogged religious plod, but in a living, spirited dance". Just makes me SMILE!
The last part of 4 is so clear on what happens when Jesus comes a 2nd time (not 3rd or 4th) & that people who died will be raised then. I mean, why would Jesus have them go from heaven back to the grave to be raised in a big show if they were already up in heaven like some believe. It just doesn't make sense. But I know some have never studied things for themselves & just take the twist the pastor is saying. And some pastors have never fully studied things out, they just take what their seminary teachers tell them as truth.
It's like the counsel Paul gives in 5:19-22 "Don't suppress the Spirit, and don't stifle those who have a word from the Master. On the other hand, don't be gullible. Check out
everything, and keep only what's good. Throw out anything tainted with evil". I have to be willing to put aside my own ideas & things I've been taught & just take the Word & see what it says. It has to jive cover to cover, I can't take it out of context just to make myself feel comfortable in what I believe.
I was thinking how specific God was to the Israelites about everything that dealt with Him & His worship. To me it seems like just drudgery. But then I think of heaven & how the angels in Rev. just seem to delight in worshiping God & are in awe of His Presence. Hebrews says that Jesus is the same yesterday, today & forever.
ReplyDeleteI realize that He had to retrain them from the pagan worship in Egypt to holy worship and impress upon them His Holiness. I guess I have 2 thoughts/questions from all this.
1 - The manner in which I worship God today; do I realize how holy He is & do I set apart things for Him or do I just try to get by with maybe a "wounded or bruised animal" so to speak?
2 - How do I reconcile all the minute specifics (because I get weighed down with all this detail) & the joy that comes from spending time in His Presence? Seems like it's one way or the other. And I've been on the drudgery side of things & it wasn't fun, it was duty. Now I'm experiencing the joy of worship both personal & corporate.
I'm tired of ditches, Jesus, please keep my eyes on You so I can be balanced.
I love how God watches out for the underdog -- notice in 22:10 that a servant and his family gets the same perks as the priest!! and then later on it talks about leaving grain for the poor and foreigner. Then I need to ask, do I watch out for those people, or just figure they'll make it somehow.
ReplyDeleteGod knows how we're wired -- the tendancy to go go go -- and focus on ourselves. Kindof cool that He proclaimed festivals! Times to stop; absolutely no work (sounds like vacation to me) and then to worship Him and give to Him (O! typically vacation is all about us -- maybe I need to rethink vacation!) Who wouldn't want to stop working with no guilt attached? I love my weekly Sabbath, and I love a God who plans out festivals! But -- as you say Chris, lots of details in the festivals. I wouldn't have wanted to be a priest. I wonder how sanguine priests ever focused enough to get it right?
A couple of the feasts (Day of Atonement and Festival of Shelters) they were instructed to keep doing those from generation to generation (23:31, 41) I know we often say the day of Atonement was fulfilled at the cross - - but what about the festival of shelters that looked back. Was that one actually cancelled out by Jesus' sacrifice?
Hey Sher -- you let that guy off easy that used Jesus' name in vain the other day! God doesn't take it lightly, so we shouldn't either. But I'm not sure I'm going to start packing around rocks!
I posted a long comment, but somehow it got lost.
ReplyDeleteThat's happened to me before -- now I always copy before I post; and if it gets lost, I just paste it in again.
ReplyDeletebummer, I would have loved to read your post!
Bummer Sherrie! I do what Linda suggested as well, cause you never know....
ReplyDeleteI like reading history so going thru the kings of Judah was interesting. Glad they had a least one good king in Josiah. He could have read that book & thought, but nothing's really happening so it must not matter much - but he didn't. He could have stopped & not torn everything down after the prophetess said he'd be ok in his reign, but he didn't. Shows that his heart was really touched & convicted. Actions do speak louder than words.
It's amazing how far the apple can fall from the tree -- both ways; either an evil dad and a dedicated son, or a dedicated dad and an evil son.
ReplyDeleteSo great to read the story of Josiah (23:3) I love how everyone rallied behind him. One good leader can make all the difference for a country (the opposite as well). I bet there was great JOY in the Passover that he celebrated!
All the kings were so young when they took over; I guess they didn't live that long back then - but with age comes wisdom (sometimes) - -
Did anyone else wonder what Jehoiachin did to get into the good graces of Evil-merodach (what a lousy name).
Thanx guys for your info and insight. Linda, for me the Feast of Trumpets represents the Rapture of the church. While this feast happens in the late fall, (Sept, Oct, or Nov) you'll notice that it's the only feast that doesn't have an exact date that it falls on every year. (No man shall know the date and hour when your Lord is coming--Matt:24)
ReplyDeleteNow onto Kings---
In these chapters, I see continuous warfare. We begin with Manasseh who rebuilt the hilltop shrines, the altars to Baal, and the Asherah idol. Then he put sun gods, star gods, moon gods into Gods Temple! Can you see our church building filled with astrology signs, and little ceramic naked gods --some of them depicted having sex---placed everywhere on stage where you two sing and play music? This guy creeps me out. Then he sacrificed one of his sons on an altar. Now that is how you acquire some REAL power in the Satanic world. This guy wasn't just playing with demonic spirits---this guy was powerful! I think that's why in vs 14, God says he will not only wipe out Jerusalem, but will reject even those people that still follow the Lord. The Lords own people were probably contaminated with demonic spirits and under their influence because of Manasseh's power.
Then we have Josiah who followed the Lord completely. Josiah gets rid of all the idols, satanic altars, is obedient to the Lord, humbles himself and repents---but it wasn't enough to prevent the Lords destruction of the country. The Lord was still angry from the evil that his father Manasseh had done and Josiah was killed!
Apparantly this follows in the tradition of the sins of the father following down even into the
3rd and 4th generation. Though Josiah was a godly man, he was carrying a generational satanic curse. That's one reason why those of us who are of a Full Gospel or Charismatic background are so big on breaking generational curses.
LinDA SAID---"Did anyone else wonder what Jehoiachin did to get into the good graces of Evil-merodach (what a lousy name)."
ReplyDeleteI think in one of my earlier posts I mentioned that the Lord was teaching me about His favor and how to use the shield of favor in warfare.
Psalm 5:12---His favor surrounds me today as a shield.
I think Jehoiachin knew how to acquire the favor of God and use it. Someone had taught him well.
I, myself decree favor over my life daily by speaking Gods Word out of Psalms. A decree is a harsh judgment issued against a defeated enemy (satan) that cannot be revoked. (Gods word will not return void) So I speak Gods word out loud over my life daily. Witches and warlocks do this
daily with words, but its called a curse.
Anyway---just a brief teaching on another of my beliefs that I'm sure is different than yours.
You know Sherrie, I learned in counseling the power of the spoken word. Fortunately, I saw Cross come between me & what had been spoken into me, believed by me & broken by the power of Jesus & speaking His Truth into my life. Now in the words of a song & the Word ..."who the Son sets free must believe they're free indeed..." I have to re-speak the Truth at times to remind me when old habits of thought patterns start to sneak in or get a foot hold.
ReplyDeleteIt may be new to me, but I see it is Biblical & powerful too! Thanks for sharing again about it!
I can see Moses writing 90 during the 40 yrs they had to wander in the desert & after he struck the Rock instead of speaking to it.
ReplyDeletev14 "Surprise us with love at daybreak; then we'll skip and dance all the day long." I really am blessed when I see sunrises, I just feel like I'm being hugged by God as I watch Him paint them for me so I really enjoy this word pic by Moses.
91 has so many promises for us to claim but it hinges on v14 "I'll give you the best of care if you'll only get to know and trust me". I'm thinking this is the heart of any successful relationship. Getting to know someone & trusting them. For me I think if I can do this with God, then it gets easier for me to do this with people.
92 is very full of praise & how appropriate that it's titled a Sabbath song. It's such a blessing to be able to enter God's house (or anywhere) on Sabbath & praise God, either by myself or with friends.
v4,5 "You made me so happy, God I saw your work and I shouted for joy. How magnificent your work, God! How profound your thoughts!" AMEN!!!!
Festival of the Trumpets Sher! Maybe so! Maybe it was a feast to turn people to the 2nd coming of Christ. It's pretty obvious in 1 Thes 4:16 that there will be a trumpet blast when He comes:)
ReplyDeleteI agree with both of you; there is power in speaking/claiming the power of God over the power of the devil! It's pretty obvious in todays (Psalms) reading that He is our refuge!!
I didn't realize that Moses was part author of Psalms! Pretty cool!
Lord through all generations, you have been our home -- now that makes sense, since Moses and the Israelites were wanderers -- tents for them! God was their place of safety, rufuge, rest (all the things mentioned in 91:1-2)
90:12 Teach us to realize the brevity of life, so that we may grow in wisdom - - really important to remember. What's really important in this life? I'd say relationships. First our relationship with God, then our relationship with the people around us. Jesus gave us a perfect example of that.
91:4 (I wonder if Jesus was thinking about this verse in his cry in Matt 23:37)
91:9-10 If you make the Lord your refuge . . . no evil will conquer you. I know many Christians that have tough times come to their lives - - well, the disciples were prime examples of martyrdom. But I think what is being said here is that Christians may walk through tough times, but they are sheltered and protected with his peace, hope, and confidence. No one can take those away.
Finally, I was looking at 91:2 -- it's good to proclaim your unfailing love in the morning. your faithfulness in the evening. I really like that -- in the morning just to soak in His love to carry you through the day, then in the evening look back and realize how faithful He has been. Thank you, Lord for this Sabbath day song!!
Psalm 90:4--A thousand years are but as yesterday. Just a brief note on something I heard the other day about the millenium. I was told that man has lived nearly 6,000 yrs on earth. (6 days to God) So the millenium is the Gods 7th day of rest. (no satan) I loved hearing that--it made sense to me.
ReplyDeletePsalm 90:17---there's that favor again that I'm learning so much about.
Ahhhh--Psalm 91---protects us from ANYTHING that the enemy can throw our way----this chapter covers it all. Vs.4--He shields me with his wings and His faithful promises are my armour.
Tho thousands are dying around me---the evil wont touch me! His angels protect me wherever I go! I'm trampling the enemy under my feet! I have dominion! The Lord sets me on high!
Psalms 92:10 is awesome. (Amplified) says I have excessive strength and stately grace! And I am annointed with fresh oil----in other words--I have a new powerful annointing of the Holy Spirit! New miracles are going to manifest. New supernatural things are going to happen---I don't have to live and look back on the old miracles and supernatural things I've experienced---I'm also going to see new ones.
Amen
So many good gems today! Love the Proverbs! Chris -- I'm thinking of you on the perch of Adams today! Sorry -- no fly by -- but I'm cheering you on!!
ReplyDelete14:10 - - Each heart knows its own bitterness, and no one else can fully share its joy -- This is an interesting text; each of us has a path we must walk alone, no one will totally understand our feelings - - but we can all encourage each other on the way!
14:21 - - It's a sin to belittle one's neighbor; I never thought of it as a sin before - - pretty strong language. What a blessing though -- when EVERYONE things the best of each other; Jesus was certainly our example there - - it came out of a heart of love; Lord, please change me to look through eyes of love at everyone, even the people I don't want to love.
15 talks twice about gentle answers and gentle words (1,4) I find it easier to listen to people that speak the truth in love, and gently!
15:14 a wise person is hungry for knowledge - - yeah! that's what I want to be, not content with what I know, but always trying to learn more (I'm not there yet!)
I LOVE 15:15 for the despondent, every day brings trouble; for the happy heart, life is a continual feast! Bring on the feasting!! Push away despondancy!
16 A bowl of vegetables with someone you love is better than steak with someone you hate -- wow, truer words were never spoken - - but then, I think back to belittling my neighbor; I guess I don't eat with the ones I hate -- but I don't speak dispairingly about them either; keep my mouth shut and look for things to love!
18 The heart of the godly things carefully before speaking - - my prayer for today! Help me to think before I open my mouth!!!
I'm a bit confused as to when Ezekiel lived compared to when Moses lived. Why did God give instructions to the Levites/priests all over again?
ReplyDeleteWho was the prince 45:7 -- was that talking about the king of Judah/Israel?
There must be a spiritual illustration with the river of healing 47:8-11.
Also -- when I read 43:10-12, I feel a bit guilty that the measurements of the temple cause my eyes to glaze over.
Looks like you had some good brain cell growth in reading the last couple of days Linda. I'll have to read in Ezekiel to see what the deal is. Although I know Ezekiel was way after Moses. I'm guessing the priests forgot, go figure.
ReplyDeleteI really like the book of John. It shows me how Jesus interacted with people more & helps me see that He wants to with me as well.
1:12 is so perfect for me because as people received Jesus & believed Him for who He was "He made to be their true selves, their child-of-God selves". As I am accepting His love for me, He is making me His child. And I need to go back to being a child to learn to trust & believe Him with an open heart.
I wonder when John saw his 2 disciples go after Jesus if he felt a bit sad. I hadn't thought of it before. I know he gave a powerful witness to Jesus as God, but he was still human. Seems like he would be glad to point people to God but just a bit sad to lose friends. But I guess technically, he wasn't losing friends. I guess that would really just be an ego thing if he felt slighted or hurt. Doesn't seem like he was though, he was totally committed to what God had for him.
I've always like the end of 2 where John talks about how Jesus didn't entrust himself to people. He knew how fickle they/we are. He didn't get caught up in the attention, He just kept focused on what His Father's plan for Him was. People & so called "friends" will come & go, but He knew His Father would always be with Him because He loved Him. I am getting to that place too.
I was REALLY excited to see what you would post about 2:23-25; and I wasn't disappointed, Chris -- really well put about how friends would come and go -- not so different for all of us. And we people are always so wowed by the amazing (like the miracles) Even the miracles were temporary (people got sick again, died again, the juice ran out again) But God's faithfulness, his purpose for people -- that's forever!
ReplyDeleteI was wondering about John -- how do you go about describing your best earthly friend, who just happens to be God? The Man that changed you from a fisherman to a friend (I love alliteration). The man that pointed your direction from the sea to the Savior (see what I mean?)
So -- he used the term "Word" I spent some time thinking about that - God's desire to communicate with us -- the written Word, the spoken Word, the first and last Word -- it's all about a relationship. His communication was about unfailing love and faithfulness (14) who wouldn't want that communicated to them?
And here's John's take on his whole experience with Jesus (16) From His abundance we have all received one gracious blessing after another. You gotta love John - - and I was thinking what wonderful times John and Jesus would have hashing over old times -- I can just see them taking long walks. I can see all of the disciples having a dunking war in one of the rivers up there -- laughing, loving, being together. And we'll all be cheering them on!
Didya notice how twice in chapter one, the mode of bringing people to Jesus was the words "come and see" We just have to invite, we don't have to convince. His love and faithfulness will take care of the needs.
I've always liked the line spouted off by the head guy at the wedding "you have kept the best until now! If we wait on God's plan for our life -- the best will happen. We have our own little plans, and we do the best we can, but it's with Jesus power in our lives that the abundant life happens - - and we can exclaim too that "This is better!! than my plan!"
Nice that Jesus spent a few days with his mom and family -- letting them get to know his disciples, and let his disciples experience some of Mary's home cooking! I bet she was really thrilled.
It gives us a little insight into the discussions of the disciples in 2:22. They must have rehashed everything He said and made all the connections. And then it always amazes me how Jesus gave clues for them throughout His ministry. Like giving them puzzle pieces, and finally it would all come together for them as they kept fitting stuff together!
Hey Linda, I really was glad that you brought out the "Come & See" point. That is so important to remember, we only have to be willing, God is responsible for the rest!
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