What a beautiful challenge to Timothy in 3:14-17. I think it's what any parent would want to say to their child.
And I love the first part of 4 as well - - there is such an urgency in Paul's voice. He knows his time is short, and I'm sure he sees so much to do. He is hoping Timothy will be the one to help carry on his task.
This section of Timothy doesn't seem to promise an easy path for God's people (3:12) But the reward of living in the will of God -- becomes clear as Paul talks about his life in 4:7-8. He's ready for his prize, he stands before God with a clear conscience - -
I appreciate hearing from the Paul that is not preaching or exhorting! That would be 4:9-end. "Everyone abandoned me! . . . but the Lord stood with me and gave me strength (and again, not concerned about himself -- why did he want strength?) so that I might preach the Good News in its entirety for all the Gentiles to hear!! What a guy!
I see a lot of caution for myself in 1st part of 3. I can naturally be very cynical & from my life in the army I can be pretty crude & coarse too, given the right circumstances. I don't want to be a religious show as Paul puts it; I want Jesus to be in me & change me so circumstances DON'T make me revert to my former ways.
3:6,7 The way the MSG puts it I think of those of us who are so depressed by our sinfulness & believing the lies of satan, just take up the next new religious fad as Paul says, to assuage our consciences. Then we think we're being pious, but if it doesn't change your life & bring you closer to Jesus, all you're doing is placating yourself. It's less painful but it's no good, you never come to the Truth so you're never free. Vicious cycle.
I like the end of 4:2 "Keep it simple." Yeah.
Linda, you're right in the Paul doesn't try to "make it all roses" in his statement to Timothy. He's a realist, besides, Timothy already has seen what has happened to Paul so he knows it's not an easy road. But I think that's where the love for Jesus comes in. Keeping our 1st love experience with Him fresh is vital to standing in hard times & not compromising.
Good night! -- and we think churches have problems with nitpicking and complaining! The Israelites win hands down!
First of all -- that's a lot of grapes! Phyllis Symmonds was telling me how big pumpkins grow in AK (around 2,000 pounds I think) because they have such long growing seasons. Reminded me of these mega-grapes!
And Chris, I was reminded about what you were talking about last night -- how we tend to trust in what we can see (a man's presence) instead of what we can't see (God's presence). It was the same for them - they could see the giants, and it was easy to forget how powerfully God had protected them in the past. A reminder to remember all He has led us through in the past as we face the future. Caleb and Joshua win!
Man these people were fickle (I see it in myself too) When told to go on to Canaan, they wanted to die in the wilderness. When told to back to the wilderness -- they wanted to go on to Canaan. God simply couldn't win with these people. But I've noticed my tendency to want something I can't have instead of resting in contentment. I need to listen for His voice, and follow (go Chris Tomlin!)
I am amazed at how many times Moses and Aaron intercede for the people. There is that one time in 16:15 when Moses threw in the towel and got angry -- but, after his anger passed -- he was back pleading for those people. You gotta agree that Moses was a very patient man - - very patient.
I could hardly believe that after the earth swallowed up K, D, A -- the next morning the people were grumbling again?? What were they thinking? and then I have to stop and ask myself -- would I have been doing the same thing? It's so easy to shake my head at their audacity, but I might have been carried away by the crowd as well.
1 Tim 4:3 "They will follow their own desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever their itching ears want to hear. They'll reject the truth and chase after myths."
Oh man Linda, I'm right with you; in shock at the grumbling/complaining of the Israelites. But you're right, I have to wonder if I'd be caught up in the crowd...am I even now, in the present day?
I'm just trying to picture the earth splitting & people/things disappearing. How horrific to be in that position or even close to it! I can imagine the people screaming & mobbing to get away from them. That would be an incredible thing but yeah Linda, the NEXT morning to be complaining again! I'm just speechless!
We are so stubborn & pride is so scary. Once going & then having the emotion kick in too...yikes! Unfortunately, I have been in that position & have pressed on too. Really humbling to admit that I was wrong & apologize, but I know I had too. And was so relieved when I did.
Great text to close with Linda, goes with the verses in 2Tim we read yesterday about jumping after every religious fad that comes along, because we're trying to quiet our consciences. Jesus could take care of it all, but our pride gets in the way & we think we can do it without Him. Scary!
I wonder what went thru their minds as they could actually see the angel that was about to strike Jerusalem in 21:15-16. Seems like it was a more natural occurrence then to see angels than now. Or maybe they expected it. I tend toward the cynical unfortunately, so if that happened today I'd be looking for a special effects truck somewhere. Maybe that's why it isn't as common place.
That & the fact that we take the Bible for granted these days & don't spend the time cultivating our relationship with God like they did then.
I'm impressed again with v24-27 in this chapter where David say's he's not offering a "sacrifice" to God that isn't really a sacrifice to him (David). It needs to cost something.
23:5 - A 4,000 piece orchestra? I'm thinking there was a rotation going on, but wow! Imagine the sound!
I spent some time thinking about the 75 lb crown David put on top of his head! That's like 7.5 sacks of 10 lb. potatoes!! I don't think I can even lift 75 lbs! David must have been amazingly strong.
Those giants of Gath show up again! It must have been a bonding experience for David's warriors to defeat them, similar to how their leader had done with Goliath - the champion!
I can't figure out why God didn't appreciate the census. It must have been because, with God -- it doesn't matter how many warriors you have (like in the story of Gideon). It showed a lack of faith -- it's just I've never read anywhere where you shouldn't take a census. Joab was so upset about it, that it must have been a decree from somewhere??
David would rather put himself at the mercy of God than man. Smart -- God is so much more merciful than man, as shown by God stopping the angel.
I picture David looking out from his palace window and seeing the angel -- gathering his leaders together and praying for God's mercy. And then, the threshing guy -- man, that would stop you in your tracks! All his sons ran away, I wonder why he didn't?
Interesting that David chose to build the temple at the sight of God's mercy.
4,000 gate-keepers. Remember the gatekeeper from John 10? I was wondering who Jesus was referring to as the gate-keeper that opened up for the good Shepherd. I'm excited to read what the gate-keeper's duties are in Chapter 26:) Also -- as long as I'm thinking back to John 10; Duane was telling me last night that the people that listened to Jesus Shepherd discussion here were very aware and knowledgeable of Ezekiel 34. Ezekiel 34 is a direct rebuke to the leaders of Israel - - and referred to the Good Shepherd as God. So, basically in John 10, Jesus was claiming Messiah-ship:)
Couple more things back in 1 Chron 23: In vs. 29, the Levites were responsible for checking weights and measures. Several times we've ready how God wants honesty in the weights and mesures -- so this must be directed to the Levites. I was also thinking about Korah, Dathan, and Abirum when we read here a couple of times how the Levites serve the Priests (descendants of Aaron)
Well lets see if my commentary today appears on this blog. The passage in Numbers was so filled with things to unpack that I wrote the longest commentary I've ever written and then lost it. Every other verse in Numbers spoke to me and had a huge impact on me. Todays reading---not so much.
1 Chronicles 20 talks a lot about the nephilim. These dudes (the souless ones) are showing themselves again now that we're in the end times. Some who see in the spirit realm have given the names of some of them (people, beings(?)) everyone would recognize. But enough on that.
I had the most difficult time with the first census mentioned today in chapter 21. Didn't understand why it made God so angry. I was so discombooberated that I googled it.
I read something to the effect that: 1)When a census was called --- taxes would usually go up. 2)A census could be used to count the number of men available for forced labor. 3)A census gave the king an idea of how many men might be ordered into the army. It was never good news for the people.
"Satan stood up against Israel and incited David" to do it. David seems to have done this out of pride. He did this to determine HIS power. And it definately offended God.
The other thing I didn't understand was 22:7-9. I was a military wife for many years so this caught my attention. David killed too many people and reddened the ground with blood so he wasn't allowed to build the temple? This just doesn't compute in my brain.
And in Chapter 23--apparently this second census is ok with God.
Sher, your research helped me understand why God was angry with the census. He wanted His people to experience an abundant life -- not a life of taxes and forced labor. Yeah -- I agree with you. I think the kingship went to his head.
I noticed the 2nd census too -- and wondered why it would be different. I had the same thoughts!
Thanks Sherrie for looking that up. I think you guys are right in why David did it. I went back & looked at 23 to see what the difference was. 23 was just the Levites. They were counted to be divied up between the different responsibilities of taking care of God's house & worship. So the latter one was for God & He is a God of order. The 1st one, like you both pointed out so well was for man.
So Psalms this a.m. was interesting because it looked like 2 different people wrote 105 & 106 but they both rehearsed God's workings with Israel which we've been reading about on Mondays.
106 makes me wonder if it wasn't one of the people in Babylon because the end asks God to gather us back from exile or in NIV from the nations You've scattered us to. David certainly wasn't in that place.
I think it's neat that they kept such a great verbal history & accurate too. Great memories. And we think we're so intelligent & advanced now.
I was looking at the stars this a.m. coming back from my run & realizing that there's hardly any compared to what I saw in the mtns. Sat night. In our "technological genius" of lights, we've shut out the beauty of our Creator. Then I just thought of how we do that in other areas too. We make it so hard for ourselves to stop & listen to God. Off the subject I know...
107:20 "...He spoke the word that healed you(me)." Great reminder of the One I always need to turn to FIRST for my help. And to return to thank. Seems like that is what this Psalm is about. Being grateful.
v43 "If you are really wise, you'll think this over—it's time you appreciated God's deep love." Doing this definitely gives me a better perspective on life.
I LIKED the stars/techno contrast! Glad you diverted!
106:1 and 107:1 in my version are the same - word for word; I love the emphasis of a thankful heart and remembering His faithful love -- sinking into the MWS song!
106:6 reminds us that we're all in the same boat - we've all sinned and we all soon forget His many acts of kindness & we rebel. I think it's so important to stop when we're tempted, grumbling, discouraged and look back at what He has done - I think it's key to moving forward in gratitude.
106:10 He rescued them from their enemies (our enemy is sin) and redeemed them from their foes (Satan) THEN (with that Linda interpretation) - - the water returned and covered their enemies (God covers our sins with the water of baptism (both our first baptism and the baptism of the HS) and (praise God) not one of them survives! Did you guys follow that?
106:23 Moses really plays the role of Christ in many situations - - the advocate for a rebellious people.
106:39 their love of idols was adultery in the Lord's sight. Really anything that we love/depend on more than the Lord is and idol, but I've never thought of an idol as adultery before - makes sense.
107:14 Love the wording here: He led them from the darkness and deepest gloom. He SNAPPED their chains!
Yup Chris -- I underlined 107:43 too! Those who are wise will take all this to heart! and I love the MSG wording - it's time you appreciated God's deep love. So many times I take that love for granted; good good reminder - it's time you appreciated it!!
Hmmmm--106:10--interesting comments about the parting of the Red Sea and water baptism---I'll have to read up on that one.
Psalms105 begins with give thanks, proclaim, sing, tell, glory, rejoice and search for HIM and HIS strength, think and remember. Wow---that gives a lot of orders about things we must do!
I don't see anything here that says we should complain, keep quiet, keep secret, be imobile, ignore the Lord, forget HIm and not think about the times He destroyed our enemies.
Love Psalm 105:15--Touch not my chosen ones and don't hurt my prophets.
Verses 23 and 24 --once again speaks about the Law of increase by association.
Verses 43 and 44 once again refers to the wealth of the wicked laid up for Gods people.
Psalms 106: 24-31 talks about the curse of a fathers sins upon the children. It is my belief and experience that we must break generational curses over our children to keep them free. I've watched my youngest child grow up in the safety and protection of the Lord after I broke generational curses over her as a baby. Her numerous brothers and sisters have had to suffer many things that she did not.
Psalm 106:37-38--Here in the US. we sacrifice little children to demons daily, shedding innocent blood. We call it abortion--but its still a sacrifice to satan. He demands a daily blood sacrifice and these requirements are met through abortion clinics.
Hey Sher -- there may not be any connection with baptism and the Red Sea -- it just hit me as an illustration! Nothing theological, just me thinking out loud:) But -- I'd still like to know if you can see any possibilities in it:)
Are you coming to Bible Study tomorrow? I forgot what we'll be studying about . . . anyway, hope to see you there. I'm on jury duty the next 2 weeks, but no trials tomorrow, so I'll be at the church:)
For a minute I thought it was going to be a really long chapter when I got to where it said 30 sayings, but only got 5 so guess I'll read the rest next week!
Thought about you & Duane with v6 Linda. I looked it up in the Amplified & it sheds a bit different light on it. I've always heard it applied to raising kids as Christians, but this was more along the lines of their gift or talent in life. That makes more sense to me. We all have to make our own decisions sometime & we will make mistakes, but that's how we learn best it seems.
I like v10 "Kick out the troublemakers and things will quiet down; you need a break from bickering and griping!" It's such sweet peace when they are gone!
v22-23 are just the opposite of the way I see most of the world operating these days. We are a pretty selfish world for sure. It's amazing we are still here. We are so far from heaven, God's patience with us is incredible.
Yep Linda---I'll be at Bible Study. I Thought about your Red Sea connection with water Baptism and I don't see it. The sea parted and the Israelees passed thru safely without getting wet, but the Egyptians got bapitised with water when the Lord yanked the wheels off their chariots. Now that's a baptism for the sinners, but I don't see it for saints.
Hey Sher -- good point on the Red Sea; I think you're right -- my illustration doesn't "wash" LOL
That's also an interesting twist Chris on 22:6 (I looked up the ampliphied as well), I still think there are a lot of really good examples all around us though of people that return to the Lord when they are old(er). So many have to give the world a try and test their happiness with what the world offers before they realize that He has the more abundant life. So -- I'm going with the Sun Stand Still story of faith:) But I like how the amplified reminds us that not all kids can be treated the same, they each have their own bent and gifts to nurture and encourage.
22:1 reminds me of what I said a bunch when I was a teacher, "a good reputation is a priceless possession" the kids hated it, but they liked it too -- we had a lot of laughs over it!
22:7 and 22:26 are very similar - - cautioning against debt.
22:10 is good advice; throw out a mocker, and fighting goes too - - sometimes it's hard to stand up to a mocker, as they can be very intimidating -- but when they're gone, people feel safe, and peace happens!
22:24 Don't befriend angry people or associate with hot-tempered people, or you will learn to be like them and endagner your soul. I was thinking about how sometimes anger is passed from generation to generation -- the kids don't have much choice for that modeling:( But I know that when I'm around angry people, it takes all peace out of the situation ---
Chris, what did you do with 22:15? I know that you had a lot of physical discipline growing up; maybe this is discipline done in the right spirit. Not sure here -- I've actually thought that I was glad my mom disciplined me (she was the disciplinarian in our family - but never abusive) If she hadn't, I'd have been like water without a glass - - I was very impulsive, not structured at all! She helped me with boundaries I think.
Linda, in MSG it doesn't have "rod" in there with discipline. It says "Young people are prone to foolishness and fads; the cure comes through tough-minded discipline". So I didn't see it as something negative. Discipline is different than punishment or abuse. It's meant to teach & reconcile. A lot of what I had taught me fear & hatred. So I don't mind the word discipline used in the correct way so it didn't trigger anything but a "yeah, that's right & I should be more disciplined!". LOL
After reading Joel I can see why the Jews expected things to turn around for them so literally. I also can see where people who believe that literal Israel has to be restored before Jesus comes get some of their ammo. It doesn't fit though when looking at how literal Israel becomes spiritual Israel when the Gospel was taken to the Gentiles in Acts. And all of Paul's writings about we're Jews who are Jews inside, where our hearts have been circumcised, not the outward physical circumcision (Romans 2:25-29). And of course the New Covenant that's written in our hearts instead of physically sewn on our clothes like the Jews did (maybe still do). People can get some interesting ideas when they just take texts & isolate them, instead of studying the whole Bible on a given point. But that's why it's important to study the Truth for ourselves & not take other people's word for...even if they have initials after their name. :)
2:13 "Change your life, not just your clothes. Come back to God, your God." Makes me wonder if this would be running from one religious fad to another as we read Sunday. Trading one set of human righteousness (works) for another instead of accepting God's. Or maybe like we do at times, we change jobs, cities,spouses or boyfriends/girlfriends trying to make things better, but we're the one who needs to change. And real change only comes from God & with His help.
Did anyone notice any similarities between Joel 1 & 2 and the 5th Trumpet plague of Rev 9? Maybe Joel and John saw similar Locust armies.
I think both are a warning -- and God through Joel says it well in 2:12 "Turn to me now, while there is time. Give me your hearts . . . Return to the Lord your God. for He is merciful and compassionate, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love. He is eager to relent and not punish (which is why David chose the plague sent by the Lord that we read awhile back)
Anyway -- I love the beauty of the restoration part of the end of 2 and 3. When everything is desolate -- nothing left; God comes in and restores -- a really neat illustration of our lives. We try this and that, and we are dry, stripped of all greenery -- then He comes and restores.
Gotta love 2:28-32 - that connection with God will be restored as well. And really precious to female me that in 2:29 "I will pour out my Spirit even on servants -- men and women alike" In a culture where women were not as prominent as men - I wonder if this was a new thought for them. Maybe not, I know there were some women prophets back then as well (like Deborah)
the valley of Jehoshaphat (3:12) is later called the valley of decision (3:14). I really like the second name, as I'm not sure anyone really knows where the v of J is -- and we all walk through the valley of decision.
Whether this is talking about an event in Bible times or end times -- I think it is a message each one of us can relate to, as we all walk through that valley:)
Like the thought of restoration you brought out Linda. You made it more personal today. I had a more academic (which I get bored with) approach. Hadn't made the parallel between this & the Rev trumpet either. Maybe it was too early for me to think. I was kinda on autopilot as I ran too.
Chris said: "After reading Joel ..... I also can see where people who believe that literal Israel has to be restored before Jesus comes get some of their ammo. "
Say what? I don't understand what you are saying. A literal Israel was restored in 1948.
In Joel 1 –--we have a natural disaster --appears to be a food crisis.
Joel 2:1-11 – there is a a crisis of another kind. Appears that military troops are invading Jerusalem or an invsion of some sort is happening.
Joel 2:15-16 – I remember the song in the 90's, "Blow the Trumpet in Zion" that we'd sing over and over asking for breakthrough---asking for God's protection and blessing and asking for victory over our enemies in these last days.
Joel 2:25--one of the best scrptures in the whole Bible for me. "I will restore what the locusts have eaten" I decree this every day!
And of course 2:28-29--"I will pour out my Spirit--- and your sons and daughters will prophesy and your old men will dream dreams and young men will have visions." Praise God, Hallejuah that God is pouring out prophecy, dreams and visions upon His people today. Where would the church be today without these gifts.
Verses 30-31 about the moon and the sun and strange symbols in the sky ---these things are all happening at the moment ---you see it on the news everyday. It's so exciting to see Gods word come to life.
Today in the nation of Israel, there is prosperty---Yayyy.
Sherrie, you're right, I wasn't very clear. I was referring to those who believe that Israel will be a superpower & that one has to be in Jerusalem to be saved once things start falling apart in the world shortly before Christ returns.
Now on to better things.
I love to soak in these chapters where Jesus is speaking to His disciples right before He leaves them. It's like He's trying to compact things down, He has so much to share with them, He knows they aren't ready. Must have been really comforting to Him also to know that the HS was going to be with them to continue to lead & teach them. They weren't just going to be wandering about like homeless bums, not knowing where to go, what to do. They were going to have purpose.
Nice timing too since we're doing Communion today. So thoughtful for Jesus to actually illustrate His point, instead of just telling a story or making a statement. This picture came back to them time & time again whenever they washed each others feet AND when pride was a temptation I'm sure.
Seems pretty obvious to me that He was pointing out Judas as the betrayer, I don't know why they didn't get it. Maybe because they couldn't believe it was possible for one so close to Him to betray Him.
Instead of being depressed that He was being betrayed, He realized this was going to glorify God even more! That is just a mind blower compared to my whining during trials. I'm always seeking the easy way out. Jesus was always looking for His Father's glory. Quite the contrast.
It's true (14:15-17) that the godless, the unsurrendered, don't understand spiritual things. I can't have a deep, bonding spiritual convo with some of my closest friends because they don't have a daily walk with Him in the same way. They are on the edge or not at all. Just more to pray for.
v23-24 When we love God fully, we obey Him fully. Not the other way around. The latter is a natural progression of the former. It's not even realized!
15:9-10 "...Make yourselves at home in my love. If you keep my commands, you'll remain intimately at home in my love." Like this picture. Being at home in His love. There are places I've been in through my travels that I loved to remain or visit whenever I could because I felt loved there. I imagined it was what people talked about when they happily said they were going "home". Now, I think of heaven, can't wait to go "HOME"!
The other natural outcome is that real love for God gives me real love for others. Not just people that are nice to me either. God has to pull me up short sometimes & remind me that I'm getting upset or judging one of His children at times. I'm thankful for the rebuke though. I want a different heart & He's changing me! Thankfully!
Jesus knew that his hour had come -- it was hear; the time to say goodbye to his disciples - what a blessing that we get to listen in on the last words that He would speak to them.
13:7 is interesting to me. You don't understand (intellect) now what I am doing, but someday you will (experience). and that is true for all of us -- we don't always understand why we go through stuff -- but someday we will.
Peter's question in 13:36 is answered in 14:2. I am going to prepare a place for you. When everything is ready, I will come and get you. Can't you just hear the pathos in His voice -- He hates leaving them, He's doing everything He can to soften the disappointment ahead of them.
When Jesus says in 14:6 I am the way, the truth and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me -- I looked back again to that 13:7 text. I don't think the disciples got that (and I'm still getting it myself) -- but again, later - they did. And God did everything to help them and to help us understand that only HE is the way by giving us the Holy Spirit (14:16,17) Jesus said He was the one who lead into all TRUTH!
Jesus talks about an obedience that pours out of love for him. It just naturally happens, we accept and obey what He says(14:21) Then He'll reveal Himself to us -- what a GREAT promise!
I also love the other gift Jesus leaves us: 14:27 peace of mind - - everyone wants THAT!
I still need a lot of pruning -- ah, pruning goes on year after year, doesn't it? I need to abandon myself to His clippers.
15:12 Love each other in the same way I have loved you -- pretty tall order; I fail often, but He keeps pruning.
What a beautiful challenge to Timothy in 3:14-17. I think it's what any parent would want to say to their child.
ReplyDeleteAnd I love the first part of 4 as well - - there is such an urgency in Paul's voice. He knows his time is short, and I'm sure he sees so much to do. He is hoping Timothy will be the one to help carry on his task.
This section of Timothy doesn't seem to promise an easy path for God's people (3:12) But the reward of living in the will of God -- becomes clear as Paul talks about his life in 4:7-8. He's ready for his prize, he stands before God with a clear conscience - -
I appreciate hearing from the Paul that is not preaching or exhorting! That would be 4:9-end. "Everyone abandoned me! . . . but the Lord stood with me and gave me strength (and again, not concerned about himself -- why did he want strength?) so that I might preach the Good News in its entirety for all the Gentiles to hear!! What a guy!
I see a lot of caution for myself in 1st part of 3. I can naturally be very cynical & from my life in the army I can be pretty crude & coarse too, given the right circumstances. I don't want to be a religious show as Paul puts it; I want Jesus to be in me & change me so circumstances DON'T make me revert to my former ways.
ReplyDelete3:6,7 The way the MSG puts it I think of those of us who are so depressed by our sinfulness & believing the lies of satan, just take up the next new religious fad as Paul says, to assuage our consciences. Then we think we're being pious, but if it doesn't change your life & bring you closer to Jesus, all you're doing is placating yourself. It's less painful but it's no good, you never come to the Truth so you're never free. Vicious cycle.
I like the end of 4:2 "Keep it simple." Yeah.
Linda, you're right in the Paul doesn't try to "make it all roses" in his statement to Timothy. He's a realist, besides, Timothy already has seen what has happened to Paul so he knows it's not an easy road. But I think that's where the love for Jesus comes in. Keeping our 1st love experience with Him fresh is vital to standing in hard times & not compromising.
Good night! -- and we think churches have problems with nitpicking and complaining! The Israelites win hands down!
ReplyDeleteFirst of all -- that's a lot of grapes! Phyllis Symmonds was telling me how big pumpkins grow in AK (around 2,000 pounds I think) because they have such long growing seasons. Reminded me of these mega-grapes!
And Chris, I was reminded about what you were talking about last night -- how we tend to trust in what we can see (a man's presence) instead of what we can't see (God's presence). It was the same for them - they could see the giants, and it was easy to forget how powerfully God had protected them in the past. A reminder to remember all He has led us through in the past as we face the future. Caleb and Joshua win!
Man these people were fickle (I see it in myself too) When told to go on to Canaan, they wanted to die in the wilderness. When told to back to the wilderness -- they wanted to go on to Canaan. God simply couldn't win with these people. But I've noticed my tendency to want something I can't have instead of resting in contentment. I need to listen for His voice, and follow (go Chris Tomlin!)
I am amazed at how many times Moses and Aaron intercede for the people. There is that one time in 16:15 when Moses threw in the towel and got angry -- but, after his anger passed -- he was back pleading for those people. You gotta agree that Moses was a very patient man - - very patient.
I could hardly believe that after the earth swallowed up K, D, A -- the next morning the people were grumbling again?? What were they thinking? and then I have to stop and ask myself -- would I have been doing the same thing? It's so easy to shake my head at their audacity, but I might have been carried away by the crowd as well.
1 Tim 4:3 "They will follow their own desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever their itching ears want to hear. They'll reject the truth and chase after myths."
Oh man Linda, I'm right with you; in shock at the grumbling/complaining of the Israelites. But you're right, I have to wonder if I'd be caught up in the crowd...am I even now, in the present day?
ReplyDeleteI'm just trying to picture the earth splitting & people/things disappearing. How horrific to be in that position or even close to it! I can imagine the people screaming & mobbing to get away from them. That would be an incredible thing but yeah Linda, the NEXT morning to be complaining again! I'm just speechless!
We are so stubborn & pride is so scary. Once going & then having the emotion kick in too...yikes! Unfortunately, I have been in that position & have pressed on too. Really humbling to admit that I was wrong & apologize, but I know I had too. And was so relieved when I did.
Great text to close with Linda, goes with the verses in 2Tim we read yesterday about jumping after every religious fad that comes along, because we're trying to quiet our consciences. Jesus could take care of it all, but our pride gets in the way & we think we can do it without Him. Scary!
I wonder what went thru their minds as they could actually see the angel that was about to strike Jerusalem in 21:15-16. Seems like it was a more natural occurrence then to see angels than now. Or maybe they expected it. I tend toward the cynical unfortunately, so if that happened today I'd be looking for a special effects truck somewhere. Maybe that's why it isn't as common place.
ReplyDeleteThat & the fact that we take the Bible for granted these days & don't spend the time cultivating our relationship with God like they did then.
I'm impressed again with v24-27 in this chapter where David say's he's not offering a "sacrifice" to God that isn't really a sacrifice to him (David). It needs to cost something.
23:5 - A 4,000 piece orchestra? I'm thinking there was a rotation going on, but wow! Imagine the sound!
I spent some time thinking about the 75 lb crown David put on top of his head! That's like 7.5 sacks of 10 lb. potatoes!! I don't think I can even lift 75 lbs! David must have been amazingly strong.
ReplyDeleteThose giants of Gath show up again! It must have been a bonding experience for David's warriors to defeat them, similar to how their leader had done with Goliath - the champion!
I can't figure out why God didn't appreciate the census. It must have been because, with God -- it doesn't matter how many warriors you have (like in the story of Gideon). It showed a lack of faith -- it's just I've never read anywhere where you shouldn't take a census. Joab was so upset about it, that it must have been a decree from somewhere??
David would rather put himself at the mercy of God than man. Smart -- God is so much more merciful than man, as shown by God stopping the angel.
I picture David looking out from his palace window and seeing the angel -- gathering his leaders together and praying for God's mercy. And then, the threshing guy -- man, that would stop you in your tracks! All his sons ran away, I wonder why he didn't?
Interesting that David chose to build the temple at the sight of God's mercy.
4,000 gate-keepers. Remember the gatekeeper from John 10? I was wondering who Jesus was referring to as the gate-keeper that opened up for the good Shepherd. I'm excited to read what the gate-keeper's duties are in Chapter 26:) Also -- as long as I'm thinking back to John 10; Duane was telling me last night that the people that listened to Jesus Shepherd discussion here were very aware and knowledgeable of Ezekiel 34. Ezekiel 34 is a direct rebuke to the leaders of Israel - - and referred to the Good Shepherd as God. So, basically in John 10, Jesus was claiming Messiah-ship:)
Couple more things back in 1 Chron 23: In vs. 29, the Levites were responsible for checking weights and measures. Several times we've ready how God wants honesty in the weights and mesures -- so this must be directed to the Levites. I was also thinking about Korah, Dathan, and Abirum when we read here a couple of times how the Levites serve the Priests (descendants of Aaron)
Well lets see if my commentary today appears on this blog. The passage in Numbers was so filled with things to unpack that I wrote the longest commentary I've ever written and then lost it. Every other verse in Numbers spoke to me and had a huge impact on me.
ReplyDeleteTodays reading---not so much.
1 Chronicles 20 talks a lot about the nephilim. These dudes (the souless ones) are showing themselves again now that we're in the end times. Some who see in the spirit realm have given the names of some of them (people, beings(?)) everyone would recognize. But enough on that.
I had the most difficult time with the first census mentioned today in chapter 21. Didn't understand why it made God so angry. I was so discombooberated that I googled it.
I read something to the effect that:
1)When a census was called --- taxes would usually go up.
2)A census could be used to count the number of men available for forced labor.
3)A census gave the king an idea of how many men might be ordered into the army.
It was never good news for the people.
"Satan stood up against Israel and incited David" to do it. David seems to have done this out of pride. He did this to determine HIS power. And it definately offended God.
The other thing I didn't understand was 22:7-9. I was a military wife for many years so this caught my attention. David killed too many people and reddened the ground with blood so he wasn't allowed to build the temple? This just doesn't compute in my brain.
And in Chapter 23--apparently this second census is ok with God.
Sher, your research helped me understand why God was angry with the census. He wanted His people to experience an abundant life -- not a life of taxes and forced labor. Yeah -- I agree with you. I think the kingship went to his head.
ReplyDeleteI noticed the 2nd census too -- and wondered why it would be different. I had the same thoughts!
Thanks Sherrie for looking that up. I think you guys are right in why David did it. I went back & looked at 23 to see what the difference was. 23 was just the Levites. They were counted to be divied up between the different responsibilities of taking care of God's house & worship. So the latter one was for God & He is a God of order. The 1st one, like you both pointed out so well was for man.
ReplyDeleteSo Psalms this a.m. was interesting because it looked like 2 different people wrote 105 & 106 but they both rehearsed God's workings with Israel which we've been reading about on Mondays.
106 makes me wonder if it wasn't one of the people in Babylon because the end asks God to gather us back from exile or in NIV from the nations You've scattered us to. David certainly wasn't in that place.
I think it's neat that they kept such a great verbal history & accurate too. Great memories. And we think we're so intelligent & advanced now.
I was looking at the stars this a.m. coming back from my run & realizing that there's hardly any compared to what I saw in the mtns. Sat night. In our "technological genius" of lights, we've shut out the beauty of our Creator. Then I just thought of how we do that in other areas too. We make it so hard for ourselves to stop & listen to God. Off the subject I know...
107:20 "...He spoke the word that healed you(me)." Great reminder of the One I always need to turn to FIRST for my help. And to return to thank. Seems like that is what this Psalm is about. Being grateful.
v43 "If you are really wise, you'll think this over—it's time you appreciated God's deep love." Doing this definitely gives me a better perspective on life.
I LIKED the stars/techno contrast! Glad you diverted!
ReplyDelete106:1 and 107:1 in my version are the same - word for word; I love the emphasis of a thankful heart and remembering His faithful love -- sinking into the MWS song!
106:6 reminds us that we're all in the same boat - we've all sinned and we all soon forget His many acts of kindness & we rebel. I think it's so important to stop when we're tempted, grumbling, discouraged and look back at what He has done - I think it's key to moving forward in gratitude.
106:10 He rescued them from their enemies (our enemy is sin) and redeemed them from their foes (Satan) THEN (with that Linda interpretation) - - the water returned and covered their enemies (God covers our sins with the water of baptism (both our first baptism and the baptism of the HS) and (praise God) not one of them survives! Did you guys follow that?
106:23 Moses really plays the role of Christ in many situations - - the advocate for a rebellious people.
106:39 their love of idols was adultery in the Lord's sight. Really anything that we love/depend on more than the Lord is and idol, but I've never thought of an idol as adultery before - makes sense.
107:14 Love the wording here: He led them from the darkness and deepest gloom. He SNAPPED their chains!
Yup Chris -- I underlined 107:43 too! Those who are wise will take all this to heart! and I love the MSG wording - it's time you appreciated God's deep love. So many times I take that love for granted; good good reminder - it's time you appreciated it!!
yep Linda, I followed your paraphrase. I like the tie in with the baptisms we receive. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteHmmmm--106:10--interesting comments about the parting of the Red Sea and water baptism---I'll have to read up on that one.
ReplyDeletePsalms105 begins with give thanks, proclaim, sing, tell, glory, rejoice and search for HIM and HIS strength, think and remember. Wow---that gives a lot of orders about things we must do!
I don't see anything here that says we should complain, keep quiet, keep secret, be imobile, ignore the Lord, forget HIm and not think about the times He destroyed our enemies.
Love Psalm 105:15--Touch not my chosen ones and don't hurt my prophets.
Verses 23 and 24 --once again speaks about the Law of increase by association.
Verses 43 and 44 once again refers to the wealth of the wicked laid up for Gods people.
Psalms 106: 24-31 talks about the curse of a fathers sins upon the children. It is my belief and experience that we must break generational curses over our children to keep them free. I've watched my youngest child grow up in the safety and protection of the Lord after I broke generational curses over her as a baby. Her numerous brothers and sisters have had to suffer many things that she did not.
Psalm 106:37-38--Here in the US. we sacrifice little children to demons daily, shedding innocent blood. We call it abortion--but its still a sacrifice to satan. He demands a daily blood sacrifice and these requirements are met through abortion clinics.
Hey Sher -- there may not be any connection with baptism and the Red Sea -- it just hit me as an illustration! Nothing theological, just me thinking out loud:) But -- I'd still like to know if you can see any possibilities in it:)
ReplyDeleteAre you coming to Bible Study tomorrow? I forgot what we'll be studying about . . . anyway, hope to see you there. I'm on jury duty the next 2 weeks, but no trials tomorrow, so I'll be at the church:)
For a minute I thought it was going to be a really long chapter when I got to where it said 30 sayings, but only got 5 so guess I'll read the rest next week!
ReplyDeleteThought about you & Duane with v6 Linda. I looked it up in the Amplified & it sheds a bit different light on it. I've always heard it applied to raising kids as Christians, but this was more along the lines of their gift or talent in life. That makes more sense to me. We all have to make our own decisions sometime & we will make mistakes, but that's how we learn best it seems.
I like v10 "Kick out the troublemakers and things will quiet down; you need a break from bickering and griping!" It's such sweet peace when they are gone!
v22-23 are just the opposite of the way I see most of the world operating these days. We are a pretty selfish world for sure. It's amazing we are still here. We are so far from heaven, God's patience with us is incredible.
Yep Linda---I'll be at Bible Study. I Thought about your Red Sea connection with water Baptism and I don't see it. The sea parted and the Israelees passed thru safely without getting wet, but the Egyptians got bapitised with water when the Lord yanked the wheels off their chariots. Now that's a baptism for the sinners, but I don't see it for saints.
ReplyDeleteHey Sher -- good point on the Red Sea; I think you're right -- my illustration doesn't "wash" LOL
ReplyDeleteThat's also an interesting twist Chris on 22:6 (I looked up the ampliphied as well), I still think there are a lot of really good examples all around us though of people that return to the Lord when they are old(er). So many have to give the world a try and test their happiness with what the world offers before they realize that He has the more abundant life. So -- I'm going with the Sun Stand Still story of faith:) But I like how the amplified reminds us that not all kids can be treated the same, they each have their own bent and gifts to nurture and encourage.
22:1 reminds me of what I said a bunch when I was a teacher, "a good reputation is a priceless possession" the kids hated it, but they liked it too -- we had a lot of laughs over it!
22:7 and 22:26 are very similar - - cautioning against debt.
22:10 is good advice; throw out a mocker, and fighting goes too - - sometimes it's hard to stand up to a mocker, as they can be very intimidating -- but when they're gone, people feel safe, and peace happens!
22:24 Don't befriend angry people or associate with hot-tempered people, or you will learn to be like them and endagner your soul. I was thinking about how sometimes anger is passed from generation to generation -- the kids don't have much choice for that modeling:( But I know that when I'm around angry people, it takes all peace out of the situation ---
Chris, what did you do with 22:15? I know that you had a lot of physical discipline growing up; maybe this is discipline done in the right spirit. Not sure here -- I've actually thought that I was glad my mom disciplined me (she was the disciplinarian in our family - but never abusive) If she hadn't, I'd have been like water without a glass - - I was very impulsive, not structured at all! She helped me with boundaries I think.
Linda, in MSG it doesn't have "rod" in there with discipline. It says "Young people are prone to foolishness and fads; the cure comes through tough-minded discipline". So I didn't see it as something negative. Discipline is different than punishment or abuse. It's meant to teach & reconcile. A lot of what I had taught me fear & hatred.
ReplyDeleteSo I don't mind the word discipline used in the correct way so it didn't trigger anything but a "yeah, that's right & I should be more disciplined!". LOL
After reading Joel I can see why the Jews expected things to turn around for them so literally. I also can see where people who believe that literal Israel has to be restored before Jesus comes get some of their ammo.
ReplyDeleteIt doesn't fit though when looking at how literal Israel becomes spiritual Israel when the Gospel was taken to the Gentiles in Acts. And all of Paul's writings about we're Jews who are Jews inside, where our hearts have been circumcised, not the outward physical circumcision (Romans 2:25-29).
And of course the New Covenant that's written in our hearts instead of physically sewn on our clothes like the Jews did (maybe still do).
People can get some interesting ideas when they just take texts & isolate them, instead of studying the whole Bible on a given point. But that's why it's important to study the Truth for ourselves & not take other people's word for...even if they have initials after their name. :)
2:13 "Change your life, not just your clothes. Come back to God, your God." Makes me wonder if this would be running from one religious fad to another as we read Sunday. Trading one set of human righteousness (works) for another instead of accepting God's. Or maybe like we do at times, we change jobs, cities,spouses or boyfriends/girlfriends trying to make things better, but we're the one who needs to change. And real change only comes from God & with His help.
Did anyone notice any similarities between Joel 1 & 2 and the 5th Trumpet plague of Rev 9? Maybe Joel and John saw similar Locust armies.
ReplyDeleteI think both are a warning -- and God through Joel says it well in 2:12 "Turn to me now, while there is time. Give me your hearts . . . Return to the Lord your God. for He is merciful and compassionate, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love. He is eager to relent and not punish (which is why David chose the plague sent by the Lord that we read awhile back)
Anyway -- I love the beauty of the restoration part of the end of 2 and 3. When everything is desolate -- nothing left; God comes in and restores -- a really neat illustration of our lives. We try this and that, and we are dry, stripped of all greenery -- then He comes and restores.
Gotta love 2:28-32 - that connection with God will be restored as well. And really precious to female me that in 2:29 "I will pour out my Spirit even on servants -- men and women alike" In a culture where women were not as prominent as men - I wonder if this was a new thought for them. Maybe not, I know there were some women prophets back then as well (like Deborah)
the valley of Jehoshaphat (3:12) is later called the valley of decision (3:14). I really like the second name, as I'm not sure anyone really knows where the v of J is -- and we all walk through the valley of decision.
Whether this is talking about an event in Bible times or end times -- I think it is a message each one of us can relate to, as we all walk through that valley:)
Like the thought of restoration you brought out Linda. You made it more personal today. I had a more academic (which I get bored with) approach.
ReplyDeleteHadn't made the parallel between this & the Rev trumpet either. Maybe it was too early for me to think. I was kinda on autopilot as I ran too.
Chris said: "After reading Joel ..... I also can see where people who believe that literal Israel has to be restored before Jesus comes get some of their ammo. "
ReplyDeleteSay what? I don't understand what you are saying.
A literal Israel was restored in 1948.
In Joel 1 –--we have a natural disaster --appears to be a food crisis.
Joel 2:1-11 – there is a a crisis of another kind. Appears that military troops are invading Jerusalem or an invsion of some sort is happening.
Joel 2:15-16 – I remember the song in the 90's, "Blow the Trumpet in Zion" that we'd sing over and over asking for breakthrough---asking for God's protection and blessing and asking for victory over our enemies in these last days.
Joel 2:25--one of the best scrptures in the whole Bible for me. "I will restore what the locusts have eaten" I decree this every day!
And of course 2:28-29--"I will pour out my Spirit--- and your sons and daughters will prophesy and your old men will dream dreams and young men will have visions." Praise God, Hallejuah that God is pouring out prophecy, dreams and visions upon His people today. Where would the church be today without these gifts.
Verses 30-31 about the moon and the sun and strange symbols in the sky ---these things are all happening at the moment ---you see it on the news everyday. It's so exciting to see Gods word come to life.
Today in the nation of Israel, there is prosperty---Yayyy.
Sherrie, you're right, I wasn't very clear. I was referring to those who believe that Israel will be a superpower & that one has to be in Jerusalem to be saved once things start falling apart in the world shortly before Christ returns.
ReplyDeleteNow on to better things.
I love to soak in these chapters where Jesus is speaking to His disciples right before He leaves them. It's like He's trying to compact things down, He has so much to share with them, He knows they aren't ready. Must have been really comforting to Him also to know that the HS was going to be with them to continue to lead & teach them. They weren't just going to be wandering about like homeless bums, not knowing where to go, what to do. They were going to have purpose.
Nice timing too since we're doing Communion today. So thoughtful for Jesus to actually illustrate His point, instead of just telling a story or making a statement. This picture came back to them time & time again whenever they washed each others feet AND when pride was a temptation I'm sure.
Seems pretty obvious to me that He was pointing out Judas as the betrayer, I don't know why they didn't get it. Maybe because they couldn't believe it was possible for one so close to Him to betray Him.
Instead of being depressed that He was being betrayed, He realized this was going to glorify God even more! That is just a mind blower compared to my whining during trials. I'm always seeking the easy way out. Jesus was always looking for His Father's glory. Quite the contrast.
It's true (14:15-17) that the godless, the unsurrendered, don't understand spiritual things. I can't have a deep, bonding spiritual convo with some of my closest friends because they don't have a daily walk with Him in the same way. They are on the edge or not at all. Just more to pray for.
v23-24 When we love God fully, we obey Him fully. Not the other way around. The latter is a natural progression of the former. It's not even realized!
15:9-10 "...Make yourselves at home in my love. If you keep my commands, you'll remain intimately at home in my love." Like this picture. Being at home in His love. There are places I've been in through my travels that I loved to remain or visit whenever I could because I felt loved there. I imagined it was what people talked about when they happily said they were going "home". Now, I think of heaven, can't wait to go "HOME"!
The other natural outcome is that real love for God gives me real love for others. Not just people that are nice to me either. God has to pull me up short sometimes & remind me that I'm getting upset or judging one of His children at times. I'm thankful for the rebuke though. I want a different heart & He's changing me! Thankfully!
How cool is THAT! John 13 on communion Sabbath:)
ReplyDeleteJesus knew that his hour had come -- it was hear; the time to say goodbye to his disciples - what a blessing that we get to listen in on the last words that He would speak to them.
13:7 is interesting to me. You don't understand (intellect) now what I am doing, but someday you will (experience). and that is true for all of us -- we don't always understand why we go through stuff -- but someday we will.
Peter's question in 13:36 is answered in 14:2. I am going to prepare a place for you. When everything is ready, I will come and get you. Can't you just hear the pathos in His voice -- He hates leaving them, He's doing everything He can to soften the disappointment ahead of them.
When Jesus says in 14:6 I am the way, the truth and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me -- I looked back again to that 13:7 text. I don't think the disciples got that (and I'm still getting it myself) -- but again, later - they did. And God did everything to help them and to help us understand that only HE is the way by giving us the Holy Spirit (14:16,17) Jesus said He was the one who lead into all TRUTH!
Jesus talks about an obedience that pours out of love for him. It just naturally happens, we accept and obey what He says(14:21) Then He'll reveal Himself to us -- what a GREAT promise!
I also love the other gift Jesus leaves us: 14:27 peace of mind - - everyone wants THAT!
I still need a lot of pruning -- ah, pruning goes on year after year, doesn't it? I need to abandon myself to His clippers.
15:12 Love each other in the same way I have loved you -- pretty tall order; I fail often, but He keeps pruning.