Can you believe it? 18 weeks to go!!! That's amazing -- I don't want it to end; well maybe the Monday section can end -- gotta dig dig dig to make that day work for me!!
What a close relationship Paul and Timothy had - - it really is like a father/son relationship, as I know my kids are on my heart night and day, just like Paul says.
Once again, in the life of Paul, in the life of Timothy - - there are no guarentees of an easy life; be ready to suffer with me for the sake of the Good News (8)
I was thinking about what Paul was talking about in vs 12; He is able to guard what I have entrusted to Him until the day of His return. I think Paul might be referring to all the lives he had invested in with the good news. Paul knows his life could be snuffed out at any time, but he also knows that God will watch over all those people he has invested his time for. Notice that Paul doesn't seem too concerned about himself, but about other people.
I guess the above thoughts make me think of my own kids (can you tell their on my mind alot?) Anyway will I trust God with them or will I pick up the worries that try to consume me! and also, will I believe that God will guard them once I've trusted them with Him?
In 2:3-6 Paul refers to the hard work and focus of 3 different professions: soldiers, athletes, farmers. All must focus on the goal - the prize, if they expect to see results - - and it won't always be easy and comfortable - - in fact, it is filled with suffering. Interesting that, in this case, it is suffering they choose to go through for the end result.
2:25 reminds me Chris of what you often say -- just present the truth, the rest is up to God!
I don't have kids, but I struggle at times with letting my friends be in God's hands. I worry if I don't hear from them in a week or so or if I don't see them on fb. So I'm learning that God can keep them & I open my hands a lot to give them back to God & tell Him that I trust Him. It's hard though, when your friends are your family. I guess that's what Paul's going thru with Timothy though too.
Hadn't thought about those people choosing that suffering to get their ultimate goal. Nicely put Linda.
I like how Paul tells Timothy to avoid inane discussions as they always end up in fights (2:23). And counsels him not to be argumentative as a leader, but to keep his cool & yes Linda, just present the Truth. :)
Above that in v14 Paul warns him "against pious nitpicking, which chips away at the faith. It just wears everyone out". Yes it does & some just don't come back. It's like that drippy faucet of a person Solomon talked about living with. Nag, nag, nag all the time, just wears you down/out. Who wants to see/interact a person like that?
It must have been impressive to see the organization of the Israelites as they took down the Tabernacle & marched out & then set it up. Soometimes I wish I had a Cloud or a clear direction as to when I should do something or not. But that was because they were a theocracy. That all stopped when they asked for a king.
11:11-15 Seems like Moses is pretty worn out here. And his faith is pretty thin too, when he asks how God is going to provide for all those people. Can't say though as I blame him, he has been waaay more patient then I would be with the people up to this point.
11:29 Moses is tired & probably relieved that others are going to be sharing the burden with him. He wishes there was more even! Interesting though that God realized the pettiness of people & allowed a visible sign (the prophesying) so the people would trust the leaders. He knows how weak/frail we can be.
Very impressive in 12 how quickly God dealt with Miriam & Aaron' jealousy. They were leaders & it would have split the camp very quickly. God had to establish again, that Moses was the chosen one for this job/place. And wow! what a defense! Telling them that He spoke to Moses face to face. And Moses was humble about it all. Nothing here is recorded about his response. He let God defend him. And then he prayed for the very ones who were against him. No wonder he's an example of Christ.
Wow Chris -- really good thoughts on Moses letting God defend him; and then the humility of praying for his attackers. The 3 of them must have been pretty close -- Aaron was horrified (I was glad to see) at the results of his jealousy and the affect on his sister. I think leprosy was not only a disease - - but also regarded as a judgement of God of a sinful life (whether that was true in most cases -- it sure was in this case). Interesting isn't it -- that they were upset that Moses was married to a Cushite; but apparenty, Mariam was married to a Midianite! (10:29) and look how very gracious Moses was to Hobab!
I was thinking the same thing Chris -- a cloud or an urim or thummim or something! It would make decisions so much easier -- oooooor; would I complain because I didn't get my own way. Remember, they broke camp night or day 9:21 -- so it was maybe not always as they liked it. Unfortunately, I can see myself complaining (sigh) I'm so human.
I was amazed at the human emotions that showed here - - dispair (from Moses) unbelief (from Moses) Jealousy (from M & A) of course the complaining (from EVERYONE!) and, it's not a lot different today -- does God get angry with us today too? Is that what the tornadoes, the fires, the flooding is about? Hmmmm -- I usually think they are all from Satan - that He holds back the winds of strife.
I like it that they used the trumpets for organization, for emergencies -- but also, for gladness! Our God enjoys seeing us happy and celebrating. I think mostly, He longs for us to be grateful people -- surrounded in an atmosphere of gratitude and generosity!
Speaking of complaining -- I was just complaining to Duane this morning that Monday is the "Numbers" day - - and here I was completely blessed and convicted by the story I read this morning. Thanx Lord -- I'm praying that your Spirit will help me live the rest of today in an aura of gratitude:)
I'm thinking the Asaph in 16:5 is the one that is responsible for the Psalms that say "a psalm of Asaph". Just because he was in charge, but there are a couple times that name is mentioned & I don't know if they're all the same guy. But a pretty talented group of people!
Wonder if Michal being filled with contempt when she saw David worshiping God with abandon is a symbol like the oldest son in the prodigal song story. People who have been a Christian for a long time, but not in a loving relationship. Just in a works one. They don't get it when people are joyfully abandoned & totally open & vulnerable to God. It grates on them & thus the despising or contempt which brings judgment.
David's not able to do what he wants to honor God (build a temple) but he is still in awe & humbled by what God says He'll do for him & his family. That's the getting something for nothing. He didn't earn the blessings that God said he'd have, it was gifted to him. He did nothing to get where he was at & nothing to get the prominence that God gave him. Similar to the grace & righteousness of Christ that covers & forgives us when we've done nothing to deserve it.
David asks God to listen not only to his cry, but the pain in his cries(102:2). Sometimes I think I listen more to the words people are saying than how they are saying them. I'm glad God takes it all in & truly understands what I'm saying. I need to learn to listen to people with my heart (His heart actually) more.
David presents his case & then in v12 says "Yet you, God, are sovereign still,always and ever sovereign". He reminds himself that God is in control & surrenders to that. In that surrender comes the ability to praise God even though his circumstances haven't changed. It brings the change in David's attitude IN those same circumstances to one of praise & waiting for God to act. He knows God will (v18-22), but he will wait.
I wonder if these are in the actual order they were written. Because 103 is loaded with praise to God & thankfulness for all He's done. I know that comes out of a surrendered heart as well. It's a great place to be - reveling in God's past blessing. Gives such hope for the future.
I've always enjoyed 104 since I heard an AG song from her very first album. Just a worshipful contemplation of His creative power.
2 days in one! back to 1 Chron: David is so willing to take the blame 15:13 "We failed to ask God how to move it" a lot of leaders won't take the blame -- and loose respect in the process.
Yeah Chris, I think that little verse at the end of 15 was stuck in there for a reason.
I love David's song -- so many beautiful words of thanks and gratitude, joy and love!
I'm glad Obed-edom (vs 38 of 16) was recognized for his loving care of the ark. I'm thinking there were many that would be afraid to have the ark in their home.
I love David's humility in 17:16 "Who am I?" Who are any of us that God would spend time guiding and helping us?? and even David -- the one God had especially chosen had that feeling!
The Ammonites were idiots!
and now -- on to Psalms:
Good thoughts Chris on 102:12 -- I made a note of that in my Bible; Surrender = ability to praise. David must have been really hurting in 102.
103:2 Let all that I am praise the Lord (reminds me of his wonderful unashamed praise of God in 1 Chron)
Doncha love 103:12 - - He has removed our sins as far from us as the east is from the west - - so many good songs have played off these wonderful words.
vs 13 reminds us of another way God fulfills roles in our lives; He's our father, our husband, our friend, our God - - He's our all in all!
And 104 just bursts forth with all creations praise -- from the heavens to the trees to the ocean to the goats -- it's all GREAT! I guess even man going off to work (vs 23) is an opportunity to praise -- as many don't have a job or purpose in this life.
Today I want to claim David's prayer in 34: May all my thoughts be pleasing to Him, for I rejoice in the Lord!
Hmmmmm -- maybe if I want my thoughts to be pleasing to Him -- I shouldn't have called the Ammonites idiots; let's just say they should have rethought their relationship to the Israelites!
So many gems today!! That's proverbs for you - power packed snacks!
Both 20:10 and 23 says to me - - God doesn't want us to be sneaky! The "nobody's looking" theory doesn't wash; He knows! and as it says in 27; He penetrates the human spirit, exposing every hidden MOTIVE! Yikes! That's where I need His Spirit to change me and scrub me up. I can look good on the outside; but it's those motives that'll kill you; only God can purify those.
20:12 Ears to hear and eyes to see -- both are gifts (if used for His purposes) Will I actually USE those ears? Will I actually USE those eyes? Notice the mouth is not mentioned here. He wants me to be observant if I plan to receive all He has for me on this day!!
20:22 easier to say than to do; getting even is much more in my nature than waiting. I need a lot more work in this area.
21:3 speaks to me again about motives. So many times I might think doing all the church stuff'll make me look right in God's eyes and man's eyes -- but He's more concerned about those motives and what we do when no one is looking.
A lot of good money advice in 21.
Strong finish in 21:30 "No human wisdom or understanding or plan can stand against the Lord. His way will win in the end! Praise the Lord -- my job is to be observant, to do what is right, and to keep trusting Him!
Seems like Solomon always has a lot to say about listening instead of talking. I wonder what was going on around him in his day. It's good advice no matter what & we sure do a LOT more talking than listening, at least I do, so I appreciate the reminders.
Enjoyed your point about the eyes/ears minus the mouth, Linda. :D
21:13 "If you stop your ears to the cries of the poor, your cries will go unheard, unanswered." I don't think the "poor" here are just $ poor. I'm thinking of the big picture. People are poor in a lot of ways, mentally, physically, emotionally & spiritually bankrupt. So if I'm listening with my heart, as I learned yesterday, I will also hear God's voice telling me to help them. If I turn away, then how can I expect to be helped when I need it?
That ties in well with 21:26 "Sinners are always wanting what they don't have; the God-loyal are always giving what they do have." We can't & shouldn't hoard the joy, peace, happiness, etc (fruits of the Spirit) that we've found/been given.
21:31 "Do your best, prepare for the worst—then trust God to bring victory." This is faith being shown by works that James talks about in James 2. We don't sit by & just passively wait. We have a part to play to be the willing participants. Faith in action!
These last chapters of Hosea remind me of myself a bit. I was chasing pleasure & doing what I wanted, thinking that it would make me happy. Jumping into one bad thing after another & yet God was the One that really gave me everything good. But I never would acknowledge it. And when everything came crashing down on me, it left me completely empty. No one could fill that God-shaped void in me. Like Toby Mac sings "I was made to love You, I was made just for You..."
Here God's people think they are so advanced, so intelligent,yet they are empty & lost because they've left their 1st love to follow things that satisfy them shallowly.
And God is justifiably angry but I love what He says in 11:9 "And so I'm not going to act on my anger. I'm not going to destroy Ephraim. And why? Because I am God and not a human. I'm The Holy One and I'm here—in your very midst". We so deserve it, but He realizes that we are just human. His thoughts are so much better & higher than ours. I'm so grateful He didn't give me what I deserve.
Now it's like that parable Jesus told Simon; the one forgiven much loves much. AND more importantly, loves those who are in the same place they are. We need to see the possibilities in others that they don't see in themselves, because they are in the same guilt-ridden, lie-believing place we once were. We need to love much, just like Jesus.
Thank you God for hope, please help me to pass it on to others you bring into my path today. ""I will heal their waywardness. I will love them lavishly." 14:4
These last chapters show how helpless the God of the universe feels. He's done all He can, and we humans still turn away! His feelings really come out in Chapter 11. In 11, I put my children in the "Israel" slot -- and man, can I relate to that helpless feeling? How can I give you up? When they were little - we were all on the same page (my page!) Now, they have different ideas and are following way different roads.
That's why, Chris, your post gave me hope. I know that their story isn't over yet, and I know that God is pursuing them -- I need to give them up! But then - - vs 8 kicks in!!
And chapter 14 gives us a glimpse of God's grace - - which is what you soaked in as well Chris. What a beautiful pic of God's forgiveness. I never realized that Hosea had such a promise of a happy ending; all He wants is for us to turn (verse 1) and confess (verse 2)
Yayyyy---I'm back! Thank you, Thank you Chris and to the others who made this possible. I am truly grateful. Now this is a true miracle!
Seven times in John 10-12, I counted the phrase "hear His voice, His sheep recognize His voice, heed His voice, crowd heard the voice, whatever the voice tells me to say, I say." This is a powerful passage on the ablity to recognize the voice of the Lord---the audible disctint characteristics of the sound of the Lords voice. I believe there is a time coming where those who don't know the sound of the Lord's voice will be left behind.
John 10:10--the thief's purpose is to steal us, kill us and destroy us. He's on a mission to take us out. Praise God that the Lord has given us weapons of war to combat the enemy.
John 10:18--No one could have killed Jesus without His consent. He had the power to zoom off that cross, but He chose death to defeat Satan, that we might be free. I verbally remind Satan daily that he's already been defeated.
John 10:28--a verse for those who believe "once saved always saved".
John 11:21---the famous song and words, "if you had been here my brother wouldn't have died". I usually say things like "if you had been here, I wouldn't be in debt, or I wouldn't be in this situation, or my computer wouldn't need more memory, or my ex wouldn't have been arrested on Thursday while I was attending Bible Study--because he never should have been released from prison after I sent him there the first time."
In John 37-38, I like the picture of an angry Jesus. It gives me comfort.
John 12:4-5, Ahhh Judas! We always have the people in churches who criticize-- who say this should have been done and wasn't-- or why were things done that way--- These are "The holier than Thou" individuals who always have their own hidden secrets. They criticize you and keep you off guard so that you wont notice that they aren't really saved. They just hang out in churches to improve their standing in society, or to give themselves a better resume or get involved to feed their addiction to drama. And unfotunately, churches are good hunting grounds with easy prey.
Linda, you parents have a surrender that is so incredibly hard to make - letting your children go. Yet you're learning the invaluable lessons of trusting in a God that is very capable of keeping them. I am praying for your peace as a parent & trust in your Heavenly Father.
John today. Jesus wants for the people to understand so badly. He knows it's getting close to the end for Him so He's trying to make it as simple as possible & they just don't get it. It's so frustrating!
Something that jumped out to me today was 10:16. I've known what this meant for a long time BUT I didn't see it in the sense that it prohibits any church from saying they are the only ones going to heaven. I had always seen the positive that there are people in all belief systems & churches that will be in heaven because they will come out & follow Jesus no matter how it conflicts with their church's beliefs or how they've been taught. They will just cling to the Bible & the Bible only. But I never saw it in the sense of "don't say you're the only church". The Jews thought they were the only ones good enough to be saved. Must have drove the leaders nuts to even think that others (Gentiles) could be there too.
I've always been thankful for the story of Lazarus, but never more so than when my dad died. It's good to know he's just fallen asleep & resting until he hears Jesus' voice calling him to wake up to eternal life. I wouldn't want him seeing everything that goes on in my life now. The pain that he caused in my early life has so affected my relationship with my Heavenly Father that it would just cause him intense pain & suffering to watch what I've struggled with & all because of him. Though he apologized & I forgave him, I still have struggled & it would no be heavenly in anyway shape or form for him to see what I've gone thru.
Another thing I like about Lazarus' story is that there's nothing here about people coming to listen to what he saw/heard in heaven when he was dead, since he was just in the ground & not in heaven. It would have been very mean of Jesus to bring him back to this earth if he'd been in heaven enjoying himself anyway. The people just came to see the one raised from the dead. He'd been in the tomb 4 days so he was definitely dead!
12:25 "...anyone who holds on to life just as it is destroys that life. But if you let it go, reckless in your love, you'll have it forever, real and eternal." If I don't open my arms & stop trying to hold onto everything I have that makes me happy now, Jesus can't give me even better things that will make me even happier. A lot of times I settle for what I have because I am happy. But the abundant, abandoned life is so much more than what I have now. It's like settling for a rusty, old car when God's holding the keys to a brand new Porsche! And a yacht...& a jet. All for me if I just let go of the comfortable, well-known rust bucket. What am I thinking?!!!
Welcome Back Sherrie! Glad it's working better! Liked what you said about hearing God's voice. It's crucial to making decisions. And of course, I can only know His Voice if I'm spending time with Him, getting to know Him too!
Don't understand what you mean't by 10:28 being for those who believe the once saved, always saved theory. MSG says "Father, put your glory on display." A voice came out of the sky: "I have glorified it, and I'll glorify it again." Is that the one you meant?
I thinking the angry Jesus gives you comfort because He's fighting for you...am I right? Took me a minute, since anger doesn't usually bring me comfort - just bad memories! LOL
Great point on the Judas' in the church! I can tend to be very critical & sometimes think it's "discernment". I have to be very careful to run it all thru Jesus first so I don't become a Judas myself!
O ladies -- ya gotta know that I look forward to opening your comments EVERY DAY! It's like a gift I get to open:) Sher, so glad you are back -- thnx Chris for installing that techy stuff for her!!
I loved your comment, Sher about His voice -- and also about telling Satan daily that he has been defeated. A very good reminder when we are feeling overwhelmed.
Chris - thnx for the prayers - being a parent is a lifetime learning experience - - I appreciate those prayers more than you know.
and Chris, I never thought about what a bummer it would be if Jesus called Lazarus back from heaven! Just never thought of that -- but yeah, good point.
What I noticed is the intensity (Chris mentioned this) in 10. Twice he says I am the Gate and twice He says, "I am the good Shepherd" He is what we need -- they WAY, but also, the LEADER. Who do you think the Gatekeeper is in vs 3? I'm thinking maybe it's the Holy Spirit that opens the gate for the Good News to reach us?
What a sacrifice -- not a forced sacrifice of His life -- but a willing, walk-into-it-knowing-what-will-happen sacrifice (vs 17). He laid His life down for me - what love.
My sheep listen (Oh boy - - another reminder to close the mouth and open the ears!!) and follow. (vs 27) I want to slow down, be more quiet, and be on the lookout for His leading - - this journey through the Bible has been such a good discipline of quietly looking for His ideas of the abundant life!
I like how Jesus uses His prayer to direct the listeners to the fact that His miracles were a testimony of His heritage (11:42) and it's obvious from the rest of today's reading that this one major miracle was a turning point - - it kindof pushed the Pharisees and leaders over the edge of jealousy. Not only were they after Jesus -- they decided to do away with Lazarus as well. (12:10)Jealousy is a scarey thing. Hatred is a scarey thing.
Why do you think Jesus was angry? Was it because people were so slow to believe in His Sonship and Power? He even indicated that up to that point the disciples didn't really believe (11:15) Martha showed disbelief (11:40) the people were just waiting for Him to prove Himself one more time.
Loved the word pic Chris about opening your arms to let go -- then He is able to give you more than your worldly desires!
I really love Jesus care for the Mary in the small phrase "Leave her alone" I've had people talk about me behind my back (way more times than I know about probably!!) but I can be at Jesus' feet and hear His words: Leave her alone. He is my Protector, my Defender.
And (man this was such a rich reading today -- I underlined almost everything!) I loved 12:42 Many people did believe in Him . . . but they wouldn't admit it for fear that the Pharisees would expel them from the synagogue. For they loved human praise more than the praise of God." It's so easy for me to fall into the "I want to be accepted by the people around me" trap - - instead of just living in the presence of God and keeping my focus on His will. I think this is a daily dying to self -- a constant abandonment to God's leading - - I'm still learning what this looks like, feels like - - life is a journey. I'm so glad I get to journey this year together with you guys!
What a close relationship Paul and Timothy had - - it really is like a father/son relationship, as I know my kids are on my heart night and day, just like Paul says.
ReplyDeleteOnce again, in the life of Paul, in the life of Timothy - - there are no guarentees of an easy life; be ready to suffer with me for the sake of the Good News (8)
I was thinking about what Paul was talking about in vs 12; He is able to guard what I have entrusted to Him until the day of His return. I think Paul might be referring to all the lives he had invested in with the good news. Paul knows his life could be snuffed out at any time, but he also knows that God will watch over all those people he has invested his time for. Notice that Paul doesn't seem too concerned about himself, but about other people.
I guess the above thoughts make me think of my own kids (can you tell their on my mind alot?) Anyway will I trust God with them or will I pick up the worries that try to consume me! and also, will I believe that God will guard them once I've trusted them with Him?
In 2:3-6 Paul refers to the hard work and focus of 3 different professions: soldiers, athletes, farmers. All must focus on the goal - the prize, if they expect to see results - - and it won't always be easy and comfortable - - in fact, it is filled with suffering. Interesting that, in this case, it is suffering they choose to go through for the end result.
2:25 reminds me Chris of what you often say -- just present the truth, the rest is up to God!
I don't have kids, but I struggle at times with letting my friends be in God's hands. I worry if I don't hear from them in a week or so or if I don't see them on fb. So I'm learning that God can keep them & I open my hands a lot to give them back to God & tell Him that I trust Him. It's hard though, when your friends are your family. I guess that's what Paul's going thru with Timothy though too.
ReplyDeleteHadn't thought about those people choosing that suffering to get their ultimate goal. Nicely put Linda.
I like how Paul tells Timothy to avoid inane discussions as they always end up in fights (2:23). And counsels him not to be argumentative as a leader, but to keep his cool & yes Linda, just present the Truth. :)
Above that in v14 Paul warns him "against pious nitpicking, which chips away at the faith. It just wears everyone out". Yes it does & some just don't come back. It's like that drippy faucet of a person Solomon talked about living with. Nag, nag, nag all the time, just wears you down/out. Who wants to see/interact a person like that?
It must have been impressive to see the organization of the Israelites as they took down the Tabernacle & marched out & then set it up. Soometimes I wish I had a Cloud or a clear direction as to when I should do something or not. But that was because they were a theocracy. That all stopped when they asked for a king.
ReplyDelete11:11-15 Seems like Moses is pretty worn out here. And his faith is pretty thin too, when he asks how God is going to provide for all those people. Can't say though as I blame him, he has been waaay more patient then I would be with the people up to this point.
11:29 Moses is tired & probably relieved that others are going to be sharing the burden with him. He wishes there was more even! Interesting though that God realized the pettiness of people & allowed a visible sign (the prophesying) so the people would trust the leaders. He knows how weak/frail we can be.
Very impressive in 12 how quickly God dealt with Miriam & Aaron' jealousy. They were leaders & it would have split the camp very quickly. God had to establish again, that Moses was the chosen one for this job/place. And wow! what a defense! Telling them that He spoke to Moses face to face. And Moses was humble about it all. Nothing here is recorded about his response. He let God defend him. And then he prayed for the very ones who were against him. No wonder he's an example of Christ.
Wow Chris -- really good thoughts on Moses letting God defend him; and then the humility of praying for his attackers. The 3 of them must have been pretty close -- Aaron was horrified (I was glad to see) at the results of his jealousy and the affect on his sister. I think leprosy was not only a disease - - but also regarded as a judgement of God of a sinful life (whether that was true in most cases -- it sure was in this case). Interesting isn't it -- that they were upset that Moses was married to a Cushite; but apparenty, Mariam was married to a Midianite! (10:29) and look how very gracious Moses was to Hobab!
ReplyDeleteI was thinking the same thing Chris -- a cloud or an urim or thummim or something! It would make decisions so much easier -- oooooor; would I complain because I didn't get my own way. Remember, they broke camp night or day 9:21 -- so it was maybe not always as they liked it. Unfortunately, I can see myself complaining (sigh) I'm so human.
I was amazed at the human emotions that showed here - - dispair (from Moses) unbelief (from Moses) Jealousy (from M & A) of course the complaining (from EVERYONE!) and, it's not a lot different today -- does God get angry with us today too? Is that what the tornadoes, the fires, the flooding is about? Hmmmm -- I usually think they are all from Satan - that He holds back the winds of strife.
I like it that they used the trumpets for organization, for emergencies -- but also, for gladness! Our God enjoys seeing us happy and celebrating. I think mostly, He longs for us to be grateful people -- surrounded in an atmosphere of gratitude and generosity!
Speaking of complaining -- I was just complaining to Duane this morning that Monday is the "Numbers" day - - and here I was completely blessed and convicted by the story I read this morning. Thanx Lord -- I'm praying that your Spirit will help me live the rest of today in an aura of gratitude:)
I'm thinking the Asaph in 16:5 is the one that is responsible for the Psalms that say "a psalm of Asaph". Just because he was in charge, but there are a couple times that name is mentioned & I don't know if they're all the same guy. But a pretty talented group of people!
ReplyDeleteWonder if Michal being filled with contempt when she saw David worshiping God with abandon is a symbol like the oldest son in the prodigal song story. People who have been a Christian for a long time, but not in a loving relationship. Just in a works one. They don't get it when people are joyfully abandoned & totally open & vulnerable to God. It grates on them & thus the despising or contempt which brings judgment.
David's not able to do what he wants to honor God (build a temple) but he is still in awe & humbled by what God says He'll do for him & his family. That's the getting something for nothing. He didn't earn the blessings that God said he'd have, it was gifted to him. He did nothing to get where he was at & nothing to get the prominence that God gave him. Similar to the grace & righteousness of Christ that covers & forgives us when we've done nothing to deserve it.
David asks God to listen not only to his cry, but the pain in his cries(102:2). Sometimes I think I listen more to the words people are saying than how they are saying them. I'm glad God takes it all in & truly understands what I'm saying. I need to learn to listen to people with my heart (His heart actually) more.
ReplyDeleteDavid presents his case & then in v12 says "Yet you, God, are sovereign still,always and ever sovereign". He reminds himself that God is in control & surrenders to that. In that surrender comes the ability to praise God even though his circumstances haven't changed. It brings the change in David's attitude IN those same circumstances to one of praise & waiting for God to act. He knows God will (v18-22), but he will wait.
I wonder if these are in the actual order they were written. Because 103 is loaded with praise to God & thankfulness for all He's done. I know that comes out of a surrendered heart as well. It's a great place to be - reveling in God's past blessing. Gives such hope for the future.
I've always enjoyed 104 since I heard an AG song from her very first album. Just a worshipful contemplation of His creative power.
2 days in one! back to 1 Chron: David is so willing to take the blame 15:13 "We failed to ask God how to move it" a lot of leaders won't take the blame -- and loose respect in the process.
ReplyDeleteYeah Chris, I think that little verse at the end of 15 was stuck in there for a reason.
I love David's song -- so many beautiful words of thanks and gratitude, joy and love!
I'm glad Obed-edom (vs 38 of 16) was recognized for his loving care of the ark. I'm thinking there were many that would be afraid to have the ark in their home.
I love David's humility in 17:16 "Who am I?" Who are any of us that God would spend time guiding and helping us?? and even David -- the one God had especially chosen had that feeling!
The Ammonites were idiots!
and now -- on to Psalms:
Good thoughts Chris on 102:12 -- I made a note of that in my Bible; Surrender = ability to praise.
David must have been really hurting in 102.
103:2 Let all that I am praise the Lord (reminds me of his wonderful unashamed praise of God in 1 Chron)
Doncha love 103:12 - - He has removed our sins as far from us as the east is from the west - - so many good songs have played off these wonderful words.
vs 13 reminds us of another way God fulfills roles in our lives; He's our father, our husband, our friend, our God - - He's our all in all!
And 104 just bursts forth with all creations praise -- from the heavens to the trees to the ocean to the goats -- it's all GREAT! I guess even man going off to work (vs 23) is an opportunity to praise -- as many don't have a job or purpose in this life.
Today I want to claim David's prayer in 34: May all my thoughts be pleasing to Him, for I rejoice in the Lord!
Hmmmmm -- maybe if I want my thoughts to be pleasing to Him -- I shouldn't have called the Ammonites idiots; let's just say they should have rethought their relationship to the Israelites!
ReplyDeleteSo many gems today!! That's proverbs for you - power packed snacks!
ReplyDeleteBoth 20:10 and 23 says to me - - God doesn't want us to be sneaky! The "nobody's looking" theory doesn't wash; He knows! and as it says in 27; He penetrates the human spirit, exposing every hidden MOTIVE! Yikes! That's where I need His Spirit to change me and scrub me up. I can look good on the outside; but it's those motives that'll kill you; only God can purify those.
20:12 Ears to hear and eyes to see -- both are gifts (if used for His purposes) Will I actually USE those ears? Will I actually USE those eyes? Notice the mouth is not mentioned here. He wants me to be observant if I plan to receive all He has for me on this day!!
20:22 easier to say than to do; getting even is much more in my nature than waiting. I need a lot more work in this area.
21:3 speaks to me again about motives. So many times I might think doing all the church stuff'll make me look right in God's eyes and man's eyes -- but He's more concerned about those motives and what we do when no one is looking.
A lot of good money advice in 21.
Strong finish in 21:30 "No human wisdom or understanding or plan can stand against the Lord. His way will win in the end! Praise the Lord -- my job is to be observant, to do what is right, and to keep trusting Him!
Seems like Solomon always has a lot to say about listening instead of talking. I wonder what was going on around him in his day. It's good advice no matter what & we sure do a LOT more talking than listening, at least I do, so I appreciate the reminders.
ReplyDeleteEnjoyed your point about the eyes/ears minus the mouth, Linda. :D
21:13 "If you stop your ears to the cries of the poor, your cries will go unheard, unanswered." I don't think the "poor" here are just $ poor. I'm thinking of the big picture. People are poor in a lot of ways, mentally, physically, emotionally & spiritually bankrupt. So if I'm listening with my heart, as I learned yesterday, I will also hear God's voice telling me to help them. If I turn away, then how can I expect to be helped when I need it?
That ties in well with 21:26 "Sinners are always wanting what they don't have; the God-loyal are always giving what they do have." We can't & shouldn't hoard the joy, peace, happiness, etc (fruits of the Spirit) that we've found/been given.
21:31 "Do your best, prepare for the worst—then trust God to bring victory." This is faith being shown by works that James talks about in James 2. We don't sit by & just passively wait. We have a part to play to be the willing participants. Faith in action!
Yeah! really good thoughts on more than $poor. We just gotta listen up good today!
ReplyDeleteThese last chapters of Hosea remind me of myself a bit. I was chasing pleasure & doing what I wanted, thinking that it would make me happy. Jumping into one bad thing after another & yet God was the One that really gave me everything good. But I never would acknowledge it. And when everything came crashing down on me, it left me completely empty. No one could fill that God-shaped void in me. Like Toby Mac sings "I was made to love You, I was made just for You..."
ReplyDeleteHere God's people think they are so advanced, so intelligent,yet they are empty & lost because they've left their 1st love to follow things that satisfy them shallowly.
And God is justifiably angry but I love what He says in 11:9 "And so I'm not going to act on my anger. I'm not going to destroy Ephraim. And why? Because I am God and not a human. I'm The Holy One and I'm here—in your very midst". We so deserve it, but He realizes that we are just human. His thoughts are so much better & higher than ours. I'm so grateful He didn't give me what I deserve.
Now it's like that parable Jesus told Simon; the one forgiven much loves much. AND more importantly, loves those who are in the same place they are. We need to see the possibilities in others that they don't see in themselves, because they are in the same guilt-ridden, lie-believing place we once were. We need to love much, just like Jesus.
Thank you God for hope, please help me to pass it on to others you bring into my path today. ""I will heal their waywardness. I will love them lavishly." 14:4
O thank you Chris, I really needed to hear that.
ReplyDeleteThese last chapters show how helpless the God of the universe feels. He's done all He can, and we humans still turn away! His feelings really come out in Chapter 11. In 11, I put my children in the "Israel" slot -- and man, can I relate to that helpless feeling? How can I give you up? When they were little - we were all on the same page (my page!) Now, they have different ideas and are following way different roads.
That's why, Chris, your post gave me hope. I know that their story isn't over yet, and I know that God is pursuing them -- I need to give them up! But then - - vs 8 kicks in!!
And chapter 14 gives us a glimpse of God's grace - - which is what you soaked in as well Chris. What a beautiful pic of God's forgiveness. I never realized that Hosea had such a promise of a happy ending; all He wants is for us to turn (verse 1) and confess (verse 2)
Yayyyy---I'm back! Thank you, Thank you Chris and to the others who made this possible. I am truly grateful. Now this is a true miracle!
ReplyDeleteSeven times in John 10-12, I counted the phrase "hear His voice, His sheep recognize His voice, heed His voice, crowd heard the voice, whatever the voice tells me to say, I say." This is a powerful passage on the ablity to recognize the voice of the Lord---the audible disctint characteristics of the sound of the Lords voice. I believe there is a time coming where those who don't know the sound of the Lord's voice will be left behind.
John 10:10--the thief's purpose is to steal us, kill us and destroy us. He's on a mission to take us out. Praise God that the Lord has given us weapons of war to combat the enemy.
John 10:18--No one could have killed Jesus without His consent. He had the power to zoom off that cross, but He chose death to defeat Satan, that we might be free. I verbally remind Satan daily that he's already been defeated.
John 10:28--a verse for those who believe "once saved always saved".
John 11:21---the famous song and words, "if you had been here my brother wouldn't have died".
I usually say things like "if you had been here, I wouldn't be in debt, or I wouldn't be in this situation, or my computer wouldn't need more memory, or my ex wouldn't have been arrested on Thursday while I was attending Bible Study--because he never should have been released from prison after I sent him there the first time."
In John 37-38, I like the picture of an angry Jesus. It gives me comfort.
John 12:4-5, Ahhh Judas! We always have the people in churches who criticize-- who say this should have been done and wasn't-- or why were things done that way---
These are "The holier than Thou" individuals who always have their own hidden secrets. They criticize you and keep you off guard so that you wont notice that they aren't really saved. They just hang out in churches to improve their standing in society, or to give themselves a better resume or get involved to feed their addiction to drama. And unfotunately, churches are good hunting grounds with easy prey.
Linda, you parents have a surrender that is so incredibly hard to make - letting your children go. Yet you're learning the invaluable lessons of trusting in a God that is very capable of keeping them. I am praying for your peace as a parent & trust in your Heavenly Father.
ReplyDeleteJohn today. Jesus wants for the people to understand so badly. He knows it's getting close to the end for Him so He's trying to make it as simple as possible & they just don't get it. It's so frustrating!
Something that jumped out to me today was 10:16. I've known what this meant for a long time BUT I didn't see it in the sense that it prohibits any church from saying they are the only ones going to heaven. I had always seen the positive that there are people in all belief systems & churches that will be in heaven because they will come out & follow Jesus no matter how it conflicts with their church's beliefs or how they've been taught. They will just cling to the Bible & the Bible only. But I never saw it in the sense of "don't say you're the only church". The Jews thought they were the only ones good enough to be saved. Must have drove the leaders nuts to even think that others (Gentiles) could be there too.
I've always been thankful for the story of Lazarus, but never more so than when my dad died. It's good to know he's just fallen asleep & resting until he hears Jesus' voice calling him to wake up to eternal life. I wouldn't want him seeing everything that goes on in my life now. The pain that he caused in my early life has so affected my relationship with my Heavenly Father that it would just cause him intense pain & suffering to watch what I've struggled with & all because of him. Though he apologized & I forgave him, I still have struggled & it would no be heavenly in anyway shape or form for him to see what I've gone thru.
Another thing I like about Lazarus' story is that there's nothing here about people coming to listen to what he saw/heard in heaven when he was dead, since he was just in the ground & not in heaven. It would have been very mean of Jesus to bring him back to this earth if he'd been in heaven enjoying himself anyway. The people just came to see the one raised from the dead. He'd been in the tomb 4 days so he was definitely dead!
12:25 "...anyone who holds on to life just as it is destroys that life. But if you let it go, reckless in your love, you'll have it forever, real and eternal." If I don't open my arms & stop trying to hold onto everything I have that makes me happy now, Jesus can't give me even better things that will make me even happier. A lot of times I settle for what I have because I am happy. But the abundant, abandoned life is so much more than what I have now. It's like settling for a rusty, old car when God's holding the keys to a brand new Porsche! And a yacht...& a jet. All for me if I just let go of the comfortable, well-known rust bucket. What am I thinking?!!!
Welcome Back Sherrie! Glad it's working better!
ReplyDeleteLiked what you said about hearing God's voice. It's crucial to making decisions. And of course, I can only know His Voice if I'm spending time with Him, getting to know Him too!
Don't understand what you mean't by 10:28 being for those who believe the once saved, always saved theory. MSG says "Father, put your glory on display." A voice came out of the sky: "I have glorified it, and I'll glorify it again." Is that the one you meant?
I thinking the angry Jesus gives you comfort because He's fighting for you...am I right? Took me a minute, since anger doesn't usually bring me comfort - just bad memories! LOL
Great point on the Judas' in the church! I can tend to be very critical & sometimes think it's "discernment". I have to be very careful to run it all thru Jesus first so I don't become a Judas myself!
O ladies -- ya gotta know that I look forward to opening your comments EVERY DAY! It's like a gift I get to open:) Sher, so glad you are back -- thnx Chris for installing that techy stuff for her!!
ReplyDeleteI loved your comment, Sher about His voice -- and also about telling Satan daily that he has been defeated. A very good reminder when we are feeling overwhelmed.
Chris - thnx for the prayers - being a parent is a lifetime learning experience - - I appreciate those prayers more than you know.
and Chris, I never thought about what a bummer it would be if Jesus called Lazarus back from heaven! Just never thought of that -- but yeah, good point.
What I noticed is the intensity (Chris mentioned this) in 10. Twice he says I am the Gate and twice He says, "I am the good Shepherd" He is what we need -- they WAY, but also, the LEADER. Who do you think the Gatekeeper is in vs 3? I'm thinking maybe it's the Holy Spirit that opens the gate for the Good News to reach us?
What a sacrifice -- not a forced sacrifice of His life -- but a willing, walk-into-it-knowing-what-will-happen sacrifice (vs 17). He laid His life down for me - what love.
My sheep listen (Oh boy - - another reminder to close the mouth and open the ears!!) and follow. (vs 27) I want to slow down, be more quiet, and be on the lookout for His leading - - this journey through the Bible has been such a good discipline of quietly looking for His ideas of the abundant life!
I like how Jesus uses His prayer to direct the listeners to the fact that His miracles were a testimony of His heritage (11:42) and it's obvious from the rest of today's reading that this one major miracle was a turning point - - it kindof pushed the Pharisees and leaders over the edge of jealousy. Not only were they after Jesus -- they decided to do away with Lazarus as well. (12:10)Jealousy is a scarey thing. Hatred is a scarey thing.
Why do you think Jesus was angry? Was it because people were so slow to believe in His Sonship and Power? He even indicated that up to that point the disciples didn't really believe (11:15) Martha showed disbelief (11:40) the people were just waiting for Him to prove Himself one more time.
Loved the word pic Chris about opening your arms to let go -- then He is able to give you more than your worldly desires!
I really love Jesus care for the Mary in the small phrase "Leave her alone" I've had people talk about me behind my back (way more times than I know about probably!!) but I can be at Jesus' feet and hear His words: Leave her alone. He is my Protector, my Defender.
And (man this was such a rich reading today -- I underlined almost everything!) I loved 12:42 Many people did believe in Him . . . but they wouldn't admit it for fear that the Pharisees would expel them from the synagogue. For they loved human praise more than the praise of God." It's so easy for me to fall into the "I want to be accepted by the people around me" trap - - instead of just living in the presence of God and keeping my focus on His will. I think this is a daily dying to self -- a constant abandonment to God's leading - - I'm still learning what this looks like, feels like - - life is a journey. I'm so glad I get to journey this year together with you guys!