Hey Sher! Here's that text you referred to last week:) What do you think about Paul saying that all food is made acceptable by the word of God and prayer -- all food? What makes food food? I know that some cultures eat stuff I don't think I could stomach -- but if the stomach can digest it - does that make it food? Never thought about that before; Who decides what makes food food?
and as long as we're talking about what food is ok -- hee hee! Let's move on to 4:7 "Do not waste time arguing over godless ideas and old wives' tales. Sure seems to me that what is REALLY important is that connection with Jesus; not who decides what makes food food!!
4:12 -- a call to watch our words and actions; Paul does that several times for Timothy - and for us.
I appreciate the concept of treating community with the respect of how you treat your family. The problem with that today, is often there is so little respect in the family - that those emotions of disrespect bleed out into the community:(
5:17 Apparently elders have a responsibility to preach and teach -- hmmm, don't always see that in the church today! typically elders are used to advise - - I think they'd benefit if they were actively doing a bit of teaching too!
Good advice in 5:22 - don't be in a hurry about appointing a church leader - - in the reason for that is found in vs 24; in the end, the truth always comes out, by their fruit you'll know them!
I love 6:6 Godliness with contentment is itself great wealth. People that are content are always wealthy, because they aren't struggling for more. I remember how happy and content families in Russia were that we visited! They had very very little - but they were very very wealthy in their contentment!!
And Paul is always turning the reader's eyes to what IS important; Jesus will come again (15-16)
Sherrie - I couldn't find the Living Bible on Bible Gateway, but I found the Living Translation. I think the Living Bible is a paraphrase like the one I'm reading (Message). I should have included John 5:28 with v29 as that talks about those in the graves rising to either eternal life or eternal judgment. But if yours just says they go to one or the either it's the same idea, it just happens to be the word the author used to paraphrase it.
So for Timothy today, Paul is doing a lot of mentoring, which we don't see a lot of today. It takes a lot of personal time & investment. I think we get caught up in so many things, even good things, that we don't have the time to personally invest in each other.
I enjoyed the comparison of needing to workout in God daily, no spiritual flabbiness in 4:6-8. So many people today claim to be Christians, but they are like people who have gym memberships, but never use the gym! They never get in shape physically or spiritually. I might drop off days in my workouts & even do that spiritually some days, but I never want to just quit working out period. My whole attitude is better when I work out physically & spiritually. And I am able to see growth on both fronts.
That culture really gets to me since the woman is treated so inferior. I guess it's pretty much that way except in the "westernized" world. The man can have as many affairs as he wants but the woman can't. I don't propose that either is right, but the injustice of it grates on me.
Interesting that God already had told Moses what the leaders were to bring. That eliminated any competition between them to see who could bring the most or the best. It wasn't about them, it was about God. Should be the same when we come to church too. Don't look at others, what they're bringing, wearing, etc. Just bring yourself & your heart & be okay with it. Open before God.
Yeah, I agree Chris -- the injustice toward women is horrible:( and the ritual is weird -- what about poor Hannah? Obviously from her story there were women that weren't able to have children. I know Elkhana wasn't suspicious of her, but still - she must have felt cursed when she couldn't get pregnant. Maybe God figured if the women were serious about this ritual -- the men wouldn't have a chance.
The priestly blessing -- I've heard it many times in church (6:24-26) now I know why -- when blessed by that saying, "I myself will bless them" that's really neat - to feel the blessing of God surrounding you with those words!
Skimmed the "what the leaders brought" section.
Loved the thought of a voice coming from between the Cherubim. What that must have sounded like - - what a humbling thought; God talking, man hearing.
Reading between Kings & Chronicles gives different details here & there. The most prominent one I remember is Manassah, but we'll come to him in time.
Anyway, it never does list all of the Big 3, just one of them. Maybe it did in Kings, but I didn't go back & look.
I don't think of it as snowing in the Middle East, I just think of it as being desert so for it to say it was a snowy day when that guy killed a lion, I wonder if that was an abnormality.
Interesting that David sought God when it was a battle, but in a peaceful situation he didn't (bring the Ark over). I do that a lot too. Only talk to Him & ask for help in stressful times, instead of all the time.
But I am learning to practice His Presence all the time more & more.
OOO! Great thought about when David consulted God! I relate to him; I need to practice that Presence more too.
Says in 10:11 that the Lord killed Saul - - but from reading earlier, we know that Saul killed himself; it appears that the Lord's way of "killing" is to let people live out the consequences of their lives - - that fits in a lot of situations in the Bible like the Lord hardened Pharoughs heart - He actually let's them live out what they choose.
It's like everyone was silently waiting for Saul to pass on so they could elect David as king. How did they know 11:2 that "the Lord your God told you, You will be the shepherd of my people Israel" Did David tell them? Did Samuel? Who else would know?
I was on the look out for the 3rd guy too Chris. There were 2 mentioned Jashobeam and Eleazar - - I guess the 3rd guy was blooming in obscurity:)
David's men must have felt really loved and affirmed by David - that's why he was such a good leader; he was their best cheer leader. (Thinking of the cup of water scenerio) and maybe this was David once again pointing his men's thoughts to God as opposed to taking the homage to himself.
Everyone (12:38 in Israel agreed (that had to have been a first -- and a last, even to this day!)
Again, the ark (even though they messed up the transportation) I see this as David moving men's thoughts toward God, as opposed to himself.
David sure ran through a gamut of emotions in a short time: from celebrating (8), to anger (11), to fear (12). That must have hurt God to know that David was afraid of him, but I think it showed David that God is God; and I love the thought of Obed-edom taking the ark into his home. What a awesome responsibility! Kindof like Simon carrying Jesus cross. But God blessed both of them for their sacrifice.
Pooh! David didn't need more wives:( wish they didn't do that.
And what a cool story about the marching in the trees - I've always like this story; I think it was an affirmation of the earlier battle when they turned their victory away from self-glory and exclaimed "God did it" So now God was going to make it obvious that He DID! I wonder what David's generals thought when he gave them the poplar tree battle plan!!
Hey Sher -- what chapter talks about Nephilim? vs 11 in my version talks about 2 champions of Moab and an Egyptian warrior who was tall - - is that what you are referring to?
After Ps 99 I'm realizing I don't fully comprehend the holiness of God. That theme is repeated over & over here & I think I've let it just get a little fuzzy around the edges in how I think of God. It makes the things that He says are holy to then lose a little bit of their "set apart-ness". Not only is He my Friend, Lover, Protector, etc., He also is my Holy God whose Presence consumes sin & those who presume on His goodness to excuse their little shortcomings. Can't put it into words very good, but I can't lose sight of that part of Him either.
v1-2 of 100 I really like in MSG, to bring Him a gift of laughter (I love making people laugh!) & to sing myself into His Presence. Hadn't thought of it that way, but it is a part of worship. Can't wait to sing with the angels in heaven & see what real, pure worship is like.
v4 we are to make ourselves at home, talking praise, thanking & worshiping Him. What a source of encouragement, for us & each other.
v5 Love the thought that God is sheer beauty.
101:2 David says he's doing what counts at home. Seems we usually let ourselves go around our friends/family that are close to us. But we need to be consistent & definitely put more effort into the people & relationships that are close to us.
v6 says that God has His eye on the salt-of-the-earth people & these are the ones He wants working with Him. People who make a positive difference - consistently.
Thnx for the comments Chris on the holiness of God -- even his name is holy (3) Our culture sure doesn't recognize THAT.
(4) Mighty King, lover of justice. I appreciate that the One in charge is just, fair, trustworthy with integrity; who wouldn't want THAT in a leader and a God?
OUTSTANDING! to bring Him a gift of laughter & to sing myself into His Presence. Gives me goose bumps! Reminds me of the CT song "How Can I Keep from Singing!" Let's laugh and sing today ladies:)
101:2-5 kindof puts the kabosh on today's media, wouldn't you say? Our God wants to fill our minds with His abundance! not the worlds view of life!
Yes Chris---I assumed that the 3 of of were the only ones reading the blog. I assumed wrongly. And while I know where you guys stand on the word---others don't quite understand the things of God.
In Psalms 99---I love the justice of God. I decree it over my life daily. Imagine---God spoke through a pillar of cloud and they followed Him! I keep in my mind daily that the Lord leads us where He wants us to go.
And Psalm 100---the pattern for all church worship leaders. First we shout and sing before Him with joy. 2)We open his courts with thanksgiving. 3)Praise will get us into the outer courts. 4) Songs of thanksgiving and then songs of praise in that order-- will get us into the Holy place behind the veil where we enter into deep worship before Him and in Him and enter into His presence. It's so awesome that the Lord provides a pattern for us to enter into His presence.
And then in 101 at the end it says --my daily task is to ferret out criminals and free my city from their grasp. Couldn't be any plainer than that. That can only happen after we've worshiped and entered that Holy place. Then we have the discernment and wisdom of God to free our city or place that we dwell. (In my case--the apt complex)
Yeah Sherrie, looking at 101 again, I guess that is all David speaking. I think when it talked about him looking at the faithful of the land & the blameless (v6) I switched it over to God speaking since He can only tell if one is blameless. But that's just my take.
Prov 19 now, v3 says people ruin their lives by their own stupidity but yet blame God. So true! We just don't want to take responsibility for anything these days!
v8 says to grow yourself a wise heart. To me that means doing more listening & learning than talking.
v11 smart people know how to be quiet & to forgive & forget is a sign of their intelligence. God's having me work on the forgetting part. I think I've forgiven, but then when I think about it I can work myself up again. So I think the forgetting is part of the forgiving as well.
v18 is what a lot of parents/gparents need to realize. Disciplining the kids is for their good, but indulging them ruins them. Duh! But then they also have to understand the difference between discipline & punishment. Most of us only know punishment. Discipline's purpose is redemptive & takes thinking to implement, punishment is usually more reactionary & done with the emotions. At least that's my take, let me know what you ladies think.
Really like 21 - "We humans keep brainstorming options and plans, but God's purpose prevails." Thankfully!
I've been trying to implement v23 lately "Fear-of-God is life itself, a full life, and serene—no nasty surprises." There will always be surprises, but recognizing that they are from God & not something wrong (as I read in Dear Jesus) is giving me a different perspective.
Yup! I thought the same thing on 3 Chris - - everyone is so eager to blame it on God or anyone else - -
So glad you commented on 8 -- I like the way the Message puts it to forgive and forget, because my version says the earn respect by overlooking wrongs - - and sometimes I think wrongs need to be addressed - - resolving conflict I believe is the term. But then, part of resolving is to forgive, forget, and move on.
And I liked 21 too -- first of all, it says you can make plans (as opposed to - there's no use making plans) I enjoy thinking ahead and trying to figure out the best route; but then stay open to God - - He might see a different route - - will I buck it, will I whine, will I plead, beg, advise? or will I stay abandoned?? There's something relaxing about sinking into His plans:)
I underlined 21 too -- but I LOVE the way your version put it: a full life, and serene. What a GREAT word!! Serene! I want to walk through today feeling like that -- it brings up a picture in my mind of a quiet gentle stream; moving on, but content to be flexible with the bends and the rocks in the way - - Lord, today fill me with that word - serene!
Really like that word pic of the river & serene, it just makes me relax & think of mountain streams, blue skies & green slopes littered with wildflowers. Nice!
Thanks for reminding me of the abandonment to God. Stayed that way today instead of getting upset over something at work & God eventually explained it to me & I was fine with it. Good learning day!
Kinda feel sorry for Hosea, he has to marry someone who he know will be unfaithful to him. But I guess that's what God did when He created Adam/Eve. He already knew the story that would play out, but He wanted companionship too. So that longing for friendship or a mate is really a God induced one. Hadn't thought of it quite like that before.
In c2 it reminds me of when things go well then we take the credit or give it to anyone but God who really is the one benefiting us & watching out for us. But then when it's withheld...oh, it's definitely God's fault. Though it seems like we think we've been punished for something, maybe it's the guilty conscience for not giving Him the glory.
Really was blessed by 2:22 in MSG. God seeking me & wanting to spend time with me. Not letting me go, giving me a chance to get to really know Him. That is where my heart is right now, just wanting to know Him deeper.
Which ties into 6:6 where God says "I'm after love that lasts, not more religion. I want you to know God, not go to more prayer meetings".
The beginning of 6 is how we usually feel when we've messed up, but know deep down there's only One that can truly fix us & heal us.
A lot of this really makes me think it could be said to the US & the more "civilized" countries of the world too.
Oh yeah, & 4:6 where we are ruined because we don't know what's right or true; we've turned our back on knowledge so God turns His back on us. Basically giving us what we chose, which I think you pointed out earlier Linda.
We have the opportunity to seek God, but we don't. We don't put any effort into a relationship with Him, so there comes a point when He gives us what we want, which is nothing to do with Him. Like He says in the parable of the wise/foolish virgins & the sheep/goats..."I never knew you". Pretty scary!
I must have a virus on my computer---I just wrote a lengthy commentary on todays reading and when I copied it---what popped up was something about the Nephilim from some web page that I don't remember visiting. I can't find my commentary anywhere.
That's a bummer Sher -- I always enjoy what you write! I'm still copying everything I write before I try to post -- as I don't trust something in my computer to sweep away everything I put down!! So far, though, my computer has behaved the last several months -- but still I'm not taking any chances!
I gotta feel sorry for Hosea & Gomars kids -- man, with names like that, you'd have to be tough.
2:15 I will...transform the Valley of Trouble into a gateway of hope! I think that's what people today need; hope.
3:1 Go and love your wife again -- and that's what God does for us when we turn away from Him; He loves us again and again and again. What unfailing, unhuman love.
4:8-9 Leadership is so important. And, it's important to lean on God, not our leaders -- as they are bound to their human-ness. A good leader will constantly be pointing his/her followers to God.
Loved your comments on 6, Chris: "I'm after love that lasts, not more religion. I want you to know God, not go to more prayer meetings".
Also 6:3 Oh, that we might know the Lord! Let's press on to know him. He will resond to us as surely as the arrival of dawn!! What a goal! What a promise!
Bummer Sherrie, but if you do the Ctrl+A to select everything & then the Ctrl+C to copy it, all you have to do is put your cursor in the box & press Ctrl+V to paste it in there. So even if the blog wipes it, you can always paste it back no problem.
I get so much out of John's take on Jesus' ministry! Wish we could share face to face instead of typing it all! Would be so much fun!
7:18 reminds me of Eve, trying to defend herself against satan, when God was really the One on trial. And we do that too. Jesus said here that the one "...trying to honor the one who sent him sticks to the facts and doesn't tamper with reality". In other words, we don't add to what God said to do. What brought me to the place I currently am today? If I believe it's God, & I do, then I don't need to defend MYSELF, I need to let God do that. I just need to say, like the 2 healed men who were accosted, "the One who made me well told me to take up my bed & walk" or "He made a paste & put it on my eyes & told me to go wash & now I see". Just the facts.
It's amazing that the leaders were ready to kill Him in 5 & 6 because they knew He was referring to God when He said His Father, but here they are asking who is Your Father. Such stubborn, cold hearts. Must have really sadden Jesus.
Can't say enough about the beginning of 8. I am that woman & I just love how Jesus doesn't condemn me, He just redeems me, loves me & encourages me to live better in Him.
There is nothing like the feeling of freedom after embracing truth when you've listened to lies your whole life about who you really are, the value you have, things that have happened to you, etc. This just doesn't refer to spiritual truth. And I have to make the choice to listen & believe the Truth, which wasn't the easiest thing to do when I'd listened/believed the lies for so long. "...the Voice of Truth, tells me a different story...I will choose to listen & believe the Voice of Truth".
In 9 the disciples were looking for a cause-effect reason why the man was born blind. Jesus told them to look instead to what God can do. Other versions say it was just so God can be glorified. Instead of looking at things as punishment on me, I need to look at them from the perspective of giving God a chance to be known. Am I willing for this to happen? It's not always a comfortable place to be. I usually whine...SIGH :( Still growing!
I'm finally here!!! Did the reading this morning, but due to a late sleep-in; had to rush off for church before commenting! Now I'm sitting in the sunshine ready to roll! Yes Chris -- you gotta experience this piece of OR!
I just get the feeling in the beginning of 7 that his brothers were taunting Him -- goading Him -- trying to humiliate Him. I wonder what changed; wasn't James a brother of Jesus? I wonder if any of his other brothers every came to believe in him. So tough when your family doesn't believe in you.
I underlined 7:18 too -- but I was thinking about people that play the politics of a group -- saying what others want to hear instead of being crystal clear.
I really like 7:24 "Look beneath the surface so you can judge correctly. Jesus did that soooo often. I think that's God's way; what is the loving thing to do? When I was younger, I used to stress that if I was in a holicaust situation where I had to lie to save lives, what would I do? I think God's ways are based on love to Himself and love to others -- that should make decisions very easy -- no stressing now:):)
It's amazing how many times these chapters refer to "his time had not yet come" Jesus relaxed in His Father's time for His life -- now, if I could just learn that lesson -- relax in God's timing for me; hold me accountable ladies!
Doncha wish you could have been there when Jesus stood up and shouted about the thirst? Wow! Defining moment in His work here on earth. Usually he was quietly preaching, healing - - going up into the hills or off to the seashore. The declaration finally came - - right in the middle of a large festival! Everyone was divided - and what a testimony that he had even touched the tough temple guards!
Yeah Chris -- I like the way you put that, because it's true for me too - - I am that woman. Jesus is the one that helps me up.
Jesus doesn't mince word about who their father is if they don't follow Him. It's the same for us - somber thought. Will we learn and be teachable - - or will we fling back such ugly words as they flung to Jesus in 8:48. No -- we probably would be more PC, but actions sometimes speak louder than words -- how that must hurt our Creator.
Again -- how amazing is the name of God "I AM"
I too love the simplicity of the man born blind - a personal experience is something that no one can argue with; it's as you say Chris - the facts. I LOVE hearing people's stories - they bring me so much courage and hope so many times!
Hey Sher! Here's that text you referred to last week:) What do you think about Paul saying that all food is made acceptable by the word of God and prayer -- all food? What makes food food? I know that some cultures eat stuff I don't think I could stomach -- but if the stomach can digest it - does that make it food? Never thought about that before; Who decides what makes food food?
ReplyDeleteand as long as we're talking about what food is ok -- hee hee! Let's move on to 4:7 "Do not waste time arguing over godless ideas and old wives' tales. Sure seems to me that what is REALLY important is that connection with Jesus; not who decides what makes food food!!
4:12 -- a call to watch our words and actions; Paul does that several times for Timothy - and for us.
I appreciate the concept of treating community with the respect of how you treat your family. The problem with that today, is often there is so little respect in the family - that those emotions of disrespect bleed out into the community:(
5:17 Apparently elders have a responsibility to preach and teach -- hmmm, don't always see that in the church today! typically elders are used to advise - - I think they'd benefit if they were actively doing a bit of teaching too!
Good advice in 5:22 - don't be in a hurry about appointing a church leader - - in the reason for that is found in vs 24; in the end, the truth always comes out, by their fruit you'll know them!
I love 6:6 Godliness with contentment is itself great wealth. People that are content are always wealthy, because they aren't struggling for more. I remember how happy and content families in Russia were that we visited! They had very very little - but they were very very wealthy in their contentment!!
And Paul is always turning the reader's eyes to what IS important; Jesus will come again (15-16)
Sherrie - I couldn't find the Living Bible on Bible Gateway, but I found the Living Translation. I think the Living Bible is a paraphrase like the one I'm reading (Message). I should have included John 5:28 with v29 as that talks about those in the graves rising to either eternal life or eternal judgment. But if yours just says they go to one or the either it's the same idea, it just happens to be the word the author used to paraphrase it.
ReplyDeleteSo for Timothy today, Paul is doing a lot of mentoring, which we don't see a lot of today. It takes a lot of personal time & investment. I think we get caught up in so many things, even good things, that we don't have the time to personally invest in each other.
I enjoyed the comparison of needing to workout in God daily, no spiritual flabbiness in 4:6-8. So many people today claim to be Christians, but they are like people who have gym memberships, but never use the gym! They never get in shape physically or spiritually. I might drop off days in my workouts & even do that spiritually some days, but I never want to just quit working out period. My whole attitude is better when I work out physically & spiritually. And I am able to see growth on both fronts.
That culture really gets to me since the woman is treated so inferior. I guess it's pretty much that way except in the "westernized" world. The man can have as many affairs as he wants but the woman can't. I don't propose that either is right, but the injustice of it grates on me.
ReplyDeleteInteresting that God already had told Moses what the leaders were to bring. That eliminated any competition between them to see who could bring the most or the best. It wasn't about them, it was about God. Should be the same when we come to church too. Don't look at others, what they're bringing, wearing, etc. Just bring yourself & your heart & be okay with it. Open before God.
Yeah, I agree Chris -- the injustice toward women is horrible:( and the ritual is weird -- what about poor Hannah? Obviously from her story there were women that weren't able to have children. I know Elkhana wasn't suspicious of her, but still - she must have felt cursed when she couldn't get pregnant. Maybe God figured if the women were serious about this ritual -- the men wouldn't have a chance.
ReplyDeleteThe priestly blessing -- I've heard it many times in church (6:24-26) now I know why -- when blessed by that saying, "I myself will bless them" that's really neat - to feel the blessing of God surrounding you with those words!
Skimmed the "what the leaders brought" section.
Loved the thought of a voice coming from between the Cherubim. What that must have sounded like - - what a humbling thought; God talking, man hearing.
Reading between Kings & Chronicles gives different details here & there. The most prominent one I remember is Manassah, but we'll come to him in time.
ReplyDeleteAnyway, it never does list all of the Big 3, just one of them. Maybe it did in Kings, but I didn't go back & look.
I don't think of it as snowing in the Middle East, I just think of it as being desert so for it to say it was a snowy day when that guy killed a lion, I wonder if that was an abnormality.
Interesting that David sought God when it was a battle, but in a peaceful situation he didn't (bring the Ark over). I do that a lot too. Only talk to Him & ask for help in stressful times, instead of all the time.
But I am learning to practice His Presence all the time more & more.
OOO! Great thought about when David consulted God! I relate to him; I need to practice that Presence more too.
ReplyDeleteSays in 10:11 that the Lord killed Saul - - but from reading earlier, we know that Saul killed himself; it appears that the Lord's way of "killing" is to let people live out the consequences of their lives - - that fits in a lot of situations in the Bible like the Lord hardened Pharoughs heart - He actually let's them live out what they choose.
It's like everyone was silently waiting for Saul to pass on so they could elect David as king. How did they know 11:2 that "the Lord your God told you, You will be the shepherd of my people Israel" Did David tell them? Did Samuel? Who else would know?
I was on the look out for the 3rd guy too Chris. There were 2 mentioned Jashobeam and Eleazar - - I guess the 3rd guy was blooming in obscurity:)
David's men must have felt really loved and affirmed by David - that's why he was such a good leader; he was their best cheer leader. (Thinking of the cup of water scenerio) and maybe this was David once again pointing his men's thoughts to God as opposed to taking the homage to himself.
Everyone (12:38 in Israel agreed (that had to have been a first -- and a last, even to this day!)
Again, the ark (even though they messed up the transportation) I see this as David moving men's thoughts toward God, as opposed to himself.
David sure ran through a gamut of emotions in a short time: from celebrating (8), to anger (11), to fear (12). That must have hurt God to know that David was afraid of him, but I think it showed David that God is God; and I love the thought of Obed-edom taking the ark into his home. What a awesome responsibility! Kindof like Simon carrying Jesus cross. But God blessed both of them for their sacrifice.
Pooh! David didn't need more wives:( wish they didn't do that.
And what a cool story about the marching in the trees - I've always like this story; I think it was an affirmation of the earlier battle when they turned their victory away from self-glory and exclaimed "God did it" So now God was going to make it obvious that He DID! I wonder what David's generals thought when he gave them the poplar tree battle plan!!
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ReplyDeleteHey Sher -- what chapter talks about Nephilim? vs 11 in my version talks about 2 champions of Moab and an Egyptian warrior who was tall - - is that what you are referring to?
ReplyDeleteAfter Ps 99 I'm realizing I don't fully comprehend the holiness of God. That theme is repeated over & over here & I think I've let it just get a little fuzzy around the edges in how I think of God. It makes the things that He says are holy to then lose a little bit of their "set apart-ness". Not only is He my Friend, Lover, Protector, etc., He also is my Holy God whose Presence consumes sin & those who presume on His goodness to excuse their little shortcomings. Can't put it into words very good, but I can't lose sight of that part of Him either.
ReplyDeletev1-2 of 100 I really like in MSG, to bring Him a gift of laughter (I love making people laugh!) & to sing myself into His Presence. Hadn't thought of it that way, but it is a part of worship. Can't wait to sing with the angels in heaven & see what real, pure worship is like.
v4 we are to make ourselves at home, talking praise, thanking & worshiping Him. What a source of encouragement, for us & each other.
v5 Love the thought that God is sheer beauty.
101:2 David says he's doing what counts at home. Seems we usually let ourselves go around our friends/family that are close to us. But we need to be consistent & definitely put more effort into the people & relationships that are close to us.
v6 says that God has His eye on the salt-of-the-earth people & these are the ones He wants working with Him. People who make a positive difference - consistently.
Hey Sherrie - did you mean to delete your comment above?
ReplyDeleteThnx for the comments Chris on the holiness of God -- even his name is holy (3) Our culture sure doesn't recognize THAT.
ReplyDelete(4) Mighty King, lover of justice. I appreciate that the One in charge is just, fair, trustworthy with integrity; who wouldn't want THAT in a leader and a God?
OUTSTANDING! to bring Him a gift of laughter & to sing myself into His Presence. Gives me goose bumps! Reminds me of the CT song "How Can I Keep from Singing!" Let's laugh and sing today ladies:)
101:2-5 kindof puts the kabosh on today's media, wouldn't you say? Our God wants to fill our minds with His abundance! not the worlds view of life!
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ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteYes Chris---I assumed that the 3 of of were the only ones reading the blog. I assumed wrongly. And while I know where you guys stand on the word---others don't quite understand the things of God.
ReplyDeleteIn Psalms 99---I love the justice of God. I decree it over my life daily. Imagine---God spoke through a pillar of cloud and they followed Him! I keep in my mind daily that the Lord leads us where He wants us to go.
And Psalm 100---the pattern for all church worship leaders. First we shout and sing before Him with joy. 2)We open his courts with thanksgiving. 3)Praise will get us into the outer courts. 4) Songs of thanksgiving and then songs of praise in that order-- will get us into the Holy place behind the veil where we enter into deep worship before Him and in Him and enter into His presence. It's so awesome that the Lord provides a pattern for us to enter into His presence.
And then in 101 at the end it says --my daily task is to ferret out criminals and free my city from their grasp. Couldn't be any plainer than that. That can only happen after we've worshiped and entered that Holy place. Then we have the discernment and wisdom of God to free our city or place that we dwell. (In my case--the apt complex)
Yeah Sherrie, looking at 101 again, I guess that is all David speaking. I think when it talked about him looking at the faithful of the land & the blameless (v6) I switched it over to God speaking since He can only tell if one is blameless. But that's just my take.
ReplyDeleteProv 19 now, v3 says people ruin their lives by their own stupidity but yet blame God. So true! We just don't want to take responsibility for anything these days!
v8 says to grow yourself a wise heart. To me that means doing more listening & learning than talking.
v11 smart people know how to be quiet & to forgive & forget is a sign of their intelligence. God's having me work on the forgetting part. I think I've forgiven, but then when I think about it I can work myself up again. So I think the forgetting is part of the forgiving as well.
v18 is what a lot of parents/gparents need to realize. Disciplining the kids is for their good, but indulging them ruins them. Duh! But then they also have to understand the difference between discipline & punishment. Most of us only know punishment. Discipline's purpose is redemptive & takes thinking to implement, punishment is usually more reactionary & done with the emotions. At least that's my take, let me know what you ladies think.
Really like 21 - "We humans keep brainstorming options and plans, but God's purpose prevails." Thankfully!
I've been trying to implement v23 lately "Fear-of-God is life itself, a full life, and serene—no nasty surprises." There will always be surprises, but recognizing that they are from God & not something wrong (as I read in Dear Jesus) is giving me a different perspective.
Yup! I thought the same thing on 3 Chris - - everyone is so eager to blame it on God or anyone else - -
ReplyDeleteSo glad you commented on 8 -- I like the way the Message puts it to forgive and forget, because my version says the earn respect by overlooking wrongs - - and sometimes I think wrongs need to be addressed - - resolving conflict I believe is the term. But then, part of resolving is to forgive, forget, and move on.
And I liked 21 too -- first of all, it says you can make plans (as opposed to - there's no use making plans) I enjoy thinking ahead and trying to figure out the best route; but then stay open to God - - He might see a different route - - will I buck it, will I whine, will I plead, beg, advise? or will I stay abandoned?? There's something relaxing about sinking into His plans:)
I underlined 21 too -- but I LOVE the way your version put it: a full life, and serene. What a GREAT word!! Serene! I want to walk through today feeling like that -- it brings up a picture in my mind of a quiet gentle stream; moving on, but content to be flexible with the bends and the rocks in the way - - Lord, today fill me with that word - serene!
Really like that word pic of the river & serene, it just makes me relax & think of mountain streams, blue skies & green slopes littered with wildflowers. Nice!
ReplyDeleteThanks for reminding me of the abandonment to God. Stayed that way today instead of getting upset over something at work & God eventually explained it to me & I was fine with it. Good learning day!
Kinda feel sorry for Hosea, he has to marry someone who he know will be unfaithful to him. But I guess that's what God did when He created Adam/Eve. He already knew the story that would play out, but He wanted companionship too. So that longing for friendship or a mate is really a God induced one. Hadn't thought of it quite like that before.
ReplyDeleteIn c2 it reminds me of when things go well then we take the credit or give it to anyone but God who really is the one benefiting us & watching out for us. But then when it's withheld...oh, it's definitely God's fault. Though it seems like we think we've been punished for something, maybe it's the guilty conscience for not giving Him the glory.
Really was blessed by 2:22 in MSG. God seeking me & wanting to spend time with me. Not letting me go, giving me a chance to get to really know Him. That is where my heart is right now, just wanting to know Him deeper.
Which ties into 6:6 where God says "I'm after love that lasts, not more religion. I want you to know God, not go to more prayer meetings".
The beginning of 6 is how we usually feel when we've messed up, but know deep down there's only One that can truly fix us & heal us.
A lot of this really makes me think it could be said to the US & the more "civilized" countries of the world too.
Oh yeah, & 4:6 where we are ruined because we don't know what's right or true; we've turned our back on knowledge so God turns His back on us. Basically giving us what we chose, which I think you pointed out earlier Linda.
ReplyDeleteWe have the opportunity to seek God, but we don't. We don't put any effort into a relationship with Him, so there comes a point when He gives us what we want, which is nothing to do with Him. Like He says in the parable of the wise/foolish virgins & the sheep/goats..."I never knew you". Pretty scary!
I must have a virus on my computer---I just wrote a lengthy commentary on todays reading and when I copied it---what popped up was something about the Nephilim from some web page that I don't remember visiting. I can't find my commentary anywhere.
ReplyDeleteThat's a bummer Sher -- I always enjoy what you write! I'm still copying everything I write before I try to post -- as I don't trust something in my computer to sweep away everything I put down!! So far, though, my computer has behaved the last several months -- but still I'm not taking any chances!
ReplyDeleteI gotta feel sorry for Hosea & Gomars kids -- man, with names like that, you'd have to be tough.
2:15 I will...transform the Valley of Trouble into a gateway of hope! I think that's what people today need; hope.
3:1 Go and love your wife again -- and that's what God does for us when we turn away from Him; He loves us again and again and again. What unfailing, unhuman love.
4:8-9 Leadership is so important. And, it's important to lean on God, not our leaders -- as they are bound to their human-ness. A good leader will constantly be pointing his/her followers to God.
Loved your comments on 6, Chris: "I'm after love that lasts, not more religion. I want you to know God, not go to more prayer meetings".
Also 6:3 Oh, that we might know the Lord! Let's press on to know him. He will resond to us as surely as the arrival of dawn!! What a goal! What a promise!
Bummer Sherrie, but if you do the Ctrl+A to select everything & then the Ctrl+C to copy it, all you have to do is put your cursor in the box & press Ctrl+V to paste it in there. So even if the blog wipes it, you can always paste it back no problem.
ReplyDeleteI get so much out of John's take on Jesus' ministry! Wish we could share face to face instead of typing it all! Would be so much fun!
ReplyDelete7:18 reminds me of Eve, trying to defend herself against satan, when God was really the One on trial. And we do that too. Jesus said here that the one "...trying to honor the one who sent him sticks to the facts and doesn't tamper with reality". In other words, we don't add to what God said to do. What brought me to the place I currently am today? If I believe it's God, & I do, then I don't need to defend MYSELF, I need to let God do that. I just need to say, like the 2 healed men who were accosted, "the One who made me well told me to take up my bed & walk" or "He made a paste & put it on my eyes & told me to go wash & now I see". Just the facts.
It's amazing that the leaders were ready to kill Him in 5 & 6 because they knew He was referring to God when He said His Father, but here they are asking who is Your Father. Such stubborn, cold hearts. Must have really sadden Jesus.
Can't say enough about the beginning of 8. I am that woman & I just love how Jesus doesn't condemn me, He just redeems me, loves me & encourages me to live better in Him.
There is nothing like the feeling of freedom after embracing truth when you've listened to lies your whole life about who you really are, the value you have, things that have happened to you, etc. This just doesn't refer to spiritual truth. And I have to make the choice to listen & believe the Truth, which wasn't the easiest thing to do when I'd listened/believed the lies for so long. "...the Voice of Truth, tells me a different story...I will choose to listen & believe the Voice of Truth".
In 9 the disciples were looking for a cause-effect reason why the man was born blind. Jesus told them to look instead to what God can do. Other versions say it was just so God can be glorified. Instead of looking at things as punishment on me, I need to look at them from the perspective of giving God a chance to be known. Am I willing for this to happen? It's not always a comfortable place to be. I usually whine...SIGH :( Still growing!
I'm finally here!!! Did the reading this morning, but due to a late sleep-in; had to rush off for church before commenting! Now I'm sitting in the sunshine ready to roll! Yes Chris -- you gotta experience this piece of OR!
ReplyDeleteI just get the feeling in the beginning of 7 that his brothers were taunting Him -- goading Him -- trying to humiliate Him. I wonder what changed; wasn't James a brother of Jesus? I wonder if any of his other brothers every came to believe in him. So tough when your family doesn't believe in you.
I underlined 7:18 too -- but I was thinking about people that play the politics of a group -- saying what others want to hear instead of being crystal clear.
I really like 7:24 "Look beneath the surface so you can judge correctly. Jesus did that soooo often. I think that's God's way; what is the loving thing to do? When I was younger, I used to stress that if I was in a holicaust situation where I had to lie to save lives, what would I do? I think God's ways are based on love to Himself and love to others -- that should make decisions very easy -- no stressing now:):)
It's amazing how many times these chapters refer to "his time had not yet come" Jesus relaxed in His Father's time for His life -- now, if I could just learn that lesson -- relax in God's timing for me; hold me accountable ladies!
Doncha wish you could have been there when Jesus stood up and shouted about the thirst? Wow! Defining moment in His work here on earth. Usually he was quietly preaching, healing - - going up into the hills or off to the seashore. The declaration finally came - - right in the middle of a large festival! Everyone was divided - and what a testimony that he had even touched the tough temple guards!
Yeah Chris -- I like the way you put that, because it's true for me too - - I am that woman. Jesus is the one that helps me up.
Jesus doesn't mince word about who their father is if they don't follow Him. It's the same for us - somber thought. Will we learn and be teachable - - or will we fling back such ugly words as they flung to Jesus in 8:48. No -- we probably would be more PC, but actions sometimes speak louder than words -- how that must hurt our Creator.
Again -- how amazing is the name of God "I AM"
I too love the simplicity of the man born blind - a personal experience is something that no one can argue with; it's as you say Chris - the facts. I LOVE hearing people's stories - they bring me so much courage and hope so many times!