These 3 chapters seem to focus on Christ's role as our high priest. Paul starts right off with the function of a HP in 5:1 to "represent other people" How great is that to have JESUS as my representative - standing in for me!!
God chose him for this work, so God must be on my side, right? If God wanted me to fail, He wouldn't have chosen perfect Jesus to represent me.
I'm guilty as charged in 5:12: you've been believers so long now that you ought to be teaching others, instead, you need someone to teach you again the basic things about God's word. I was raised in a Christian home -- but it's only NOW as I'm going through God's word piece by piece that I am seeing SO MANY new things! and I expect to see more new things and make more new connections in 2012! (hint hint, I want to do this again, anybody else?)
6:4 is pretty scary: "it is impossible to bring back to repentance those who were once enlightened .. . and who then turn away from God" Why did he say that when Jesus said, with God, All things are possible. Is Paul talking about rejecting the Holy Spirit? and once rejected, is there no hope of turning back? There has to be - - or why would the disciples be working so hard for the salvation of other people's souls? and then . . . in vs 9 Paul says: "even though we are talking this way, we really don't believe it applies to you - - ok then, who does it apply to??
6:12 calls for faith and endurance - - this suggests that His followers can expect trials and temptations - - we are not called to journey on a cruise ship, but a battle ship.
I like the thought in 6:19 that says "our hope . . . leads us through the curtain into God's inner sanctuary" that would be God's presence which fits nicely with coming BOLDLY to the throne of grace. Even though God's perfection and glory are to much for our mortal bodies (like Moses only being able to see His back) God wants us near; He wants us to come, even if it is only emotionally and spiritually during this time we can't approach him physically.
Melchizadek - - the only thing I can figure is the M is God. Otherwise, where are the ancestors, how can M live forever with no beginning or end? So it was GOD that came out to meet Abraham (if my idea has merit) and God is not limited to a linage (such as Levi) He is is own lineage (I AM) and Paul is trying to explain that to people locked into the idea that to be a priest -- you HAVE to be a Levite.
I love Paul's passion in 7:25 Therefore Hi is able once and forever, to SAVE those who come to God through Him. Hallelujah! What a SAVIOR!
I agree with you, Linda that Melchizedek must have been Christ appearing to Abraham in human form. Hebrews 7:3 says Mel had no father or mother.-- But I'm getting ahead of myself.
In 5:1 it says that a Jewish High Priest is a man like anyone else, but he is CHOSEN to speak for all other men in their dealings with God. This got me to thinking about Pastors in general. When visiting different churches, you can almost tell which Pastors have been CHOSEN by God and which ones probably were talked into it by their mothers. Chosen people stand out. It also says in the beginning of Hebrews that priests have the ability to deal gently with other men--though they're foolish and ignorant---the priest understands. I'm not a priest, and I'm having a heck of a time this week with my bad attitude towards my fellow man. I have to give Priests, Pastors and Ministers, etc a lot of credit because I don't understand how they can possibly tolerate some people.
Heb 5:7---Christ pleaded with God with tears and agony to save Him from death. I'm wondering if this was premature death--because I'm sure that Satan would have loved to have taken Christ out early in life before He had to die on the cross. Or was Christ pleading with God to spare Him from death on the cross?
Heb 6:4 There's no use trying to come back to the Lord once you've understood the gospel and then you've turned against God. You can't nail God to the cross again. The author must be speaking of something other than just committing sins here. He seems to be speaking of a complete turnaround of a person's mindset. I'm thinking that he's speaking of Satan worship --someone giving their whole mind and body to the power of Satan because they believe Satan's power to be greater than the power of Jesus. Jesus defeated Satan at the cross, but Satan is a great deceiver concerning the minds of men.
Heb 6:9-10---I don't feel like I'm producing much good fruit. Most of my children aren't saved and most of my 8 grandchildren don't know the Lord.
I think a true leader has to deal with those under them remembering that at one time they didn't know/understand basic things either & royally screwed them up at times. Takes a lot of patience. Not one of my fortes at all. But I like how it's put at the beginning of 5. Pretty encouraging.
5:8 "Though he was God's Son, he learned trusting-obedience by what he suffered, just as we do." He really was entitled to cruise through His life here on earth, but He went thru the same growing pains/learning curves that we do. How can we think we're not gonna have to suffer at all since we've chosen to follow Him. His footsteps lead right down the middle of suffering lane!
I agree with you guys about M being God. Although I tend to think he's the HS not Christ. Mainly because Christ is after the order of M, so not after the order of Himself. But that's just my opinion. But pretty neat to think of the HS in the flesh at one point in time. Will be one of the things we'll find out in heaven.
7:26 "So now we have a high priest who perfectly fits our needs..." So grateful for that. I hope my life shows how grateful I am instead of just my lips saying it.
Didn't get any inspiration from Numbers this a.m. although I thought it was nice that Balaam got his & maybe some of the Israelites who had been affected by him got to see it before they died off. Or maybe it was just Moses. Guess he was the last one to die before Canaan.
Yeah - pretty dry reading; I'm glad I'm not the only one!!
The Festivals all came in one big glob; trumpets, day of atonement, festival of Shelters. They all seemed to focus on 2 things: sacrifice and offerings. It reminded me of something Chris you said months ago -- for our offerings to really mean something, they need to cost us something; money, time, emotions -- if it's all out of our excess, then I guess we haven't given God the best of the first of our blessings.
The vow business in 30 -- hmmm, wonder what that vowing was all about? Maybe a clue in verse 13 "so her husband may either confirm or nullify any vows or pledges she makes to deny herself. So -- she's denying herself something - - with all the emphasis on children in the OT, maybe sex? I sure don't understand this vow business, and why the husband/father can cancel out a vow between and woman and God - - makes no sense to me.
another confusing issue -- why did the young virgins get spared? (31:17) it seems like they would be affected by the gods/homelife they grew up in. Yeah, I noticed that about Balaam as well!
I appreciated the spirit of humility with the tribes of Reuben and Gad -- you don't often see that involving the 12 tribes. "We your servants" -- said many times, willing to ask before doing, willing to pull their weight in warfare for their brothers - - it was nice to see a spirit that was "team" instead of "all about us" No doubt it was a breath of fresh air for both Moses and God as well - - take away, be willing to ask, willing to listen, willing to make adjustments.
Kindof reminded me of your situation Chris, when you went to your boss and said that you'd work hard for them any day but Sabbath. They respected that, and you were able to make it work out! Leadership respects hard working team members - - they are a breath of fresh air!
I didn't think that this was a dry reading at all. I always get the most out of our Monday readings. ( Must fit my personality.) There was a lot to unpack in today's reading, but I'll stick to one topic.
Numbers 29 begins with the Festival (or Feast) of Trumpets. It's a very treasured festival according to my beliefs.
The Feast of Trumpets is also known as Rosh Hashanah . Many Christians observe this feast because of its prophetic application – the Rapture of the Church.
“Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality.” (1 Corinthians 15:51-53)
Rosh HaShanah is the Day of the Sounding of the Shofar (Trumpet). On this day, it is important for every person to hear the shofar.
Rosh Hashanah (Feast of Trumpets) is the only festival that no man knows exactly when it will occur. This is because it begins during the new moon. The new moon is declared when two witnesses see the new moon and testify to it before the Sanhedrin in the Temple.
This testimony could happen anytime over a 48 hour period. Since no one knew when the witnesses would come, no one knew when the Feast of Trumpets would begin. This is why Jesus said in Matt.24--No one knows the date and hour when the end (rapture) will be. Wow--that was a lot of explaining---Hope I made sense.
Interesting Sherrie, didn't know that about how the Jews figured out the new moon. They were supposed to be good astronomers back then so I figured they had it pin pointed like we do today. Nice that we don't have to wait to find out when it's gonna be - just look on your calendar.
I like that text in Corinthians too that points to the 2nd Coming/rapture of God's people. Can't wait to see people coming up out of their graves & reuniting with everyone. Gonna be an awesome reunion on the trip to heaven!
I'm glad one of us enjoy Monday's reading! LOL
In today's, I thought it was interesting that Rehoboam respected the prophets counsel. So it seems like he was open to God in some way. Just not totally abandoned to Him. And it seems like as he built up his cities & armies, that he started to rely more & more on man's strength then Gods.
But then he acknowledged his error when the prophet confronted him again. Hmmm, that luke-warm type of Christianity it seems like. I can relate. It's a wonder God puts up with us so long. He really pursues us to get us to surrender every part of us to Him.
12:14 "...God was not important to him; his heart neither cared for nor sought after God." Pretty sad commentary on the whole of R's life. Only if it affected him did he repent. Only when he had to suffer consequences, but it seems he never fully repented then if he didn't fully seek God. There was no definite change in him or his heart. Sad.
I like Abijah's speech to Israel & how they relied on God to help them. Seems like when Jeroboam was told by a prophet of God that he would be king that he would want to keep God close at hand & listen to that counsel. I wonder why he thought he could improve on God by setting up his own system of worship.
Abijah seemed a bit deeper than his father. Maybe he learned from his mistakes.
One thing I noticed in Asa & Judah's commitment to God. They decided to kill anyone that didn't want to worship & totally commit to God. I'm a bit torn here. Seems like that's religious persecution or forcing someone's conscience. I wonder how many just said they would but had not interest in it. Why didn't they just make them leave?
On the other hand, God had them, or at least wanted them to, totally wipe out the Canaanite worshipers so they wouldn't be a stumbling block to them. So maybe it would have split families & pulled people away because of that.
I can see this repeating (Reformation period in Europe; Pilgrims/religious asylum seekers in America vs Indians/others who came over with them; etc) in history & according to the Bible, in the near future as well here in America. It's happening in other countries all the time.
Linda said: "..it's only NOW as I'm going through God's word piece by piece that I am seeing SO MANY new things! and I expect to see more new things and make more new connections in 2012! (hint hint, I want to do this again, anybody else?)"
Yep Linda--- I want to keep doing this. In my whole life, I've never been this diligent in the reading of Gods word. Now my day begins with an awesome focus on the Lord. (And that's sayin somethin cause I'm OLD! Tallon asked me to count up to how old I am yesterday. He's 1,2,3. Do you know how long it takes to count up to almost 60???
That's great Sher -- I think that's what God wants too! You're just like one of the tribe of Judah in chapter 15: 12 they entered into a covenant to seek the Lord, the God of their ancestors, with all their heart and soul and vs 15 They earnestly sought after God, and they FOUND HIM! That's what I want too! I want to seek with everything and FIND HIM! (I agree Chris -- can't quite understand how to grapple with them killing those that didn't seek -- but interesting that Maacah was only deposed and not killed)
Back to 11! I had to laugh at 11:4 as I think this is probably good advice in a lot of situations! "Do not fight against your relatives, Go back home!"
I appreciate the Levites and many others leaving their families, their tribes, their homes to join Judah so they could continue to worship the true God -- that takes courage and a persevering, focused-on-God heart.
I bet Maacah was beautiful, as Absolum, her father was very handsome - probably that's why she was the favorite wife (or maybe she was just a good cook)
I was reminded once again of Pastor Jon's sermon about how God works with humans and their choices. In 12:7 the Lord saw their change of heart, so he changed his form of punishment.
Wow -- Judah was over 2 to 1 by Israel, they were being attacked from the front and back -- and in the heat of the moment they cried to the Lord. When it seemed impossible -- they sounded the trumpets for battle (notice the 2 times trumpets are mentioned in 13 (vs 12 and 14); and I love how Abijah shouted to the 800,000 men (that's some powerful shouting -- no P.A. system; they must have had amazing lungs back then)
I wonder if Asa was in the troops that day, watching his dad proclaim God's blessing on the people that obeyed him. I wonder if that might be part of the reason Asa was so determined to follow God -- he SAW the miracle of the 2 to 1 match! and wow -- Asa was determined to follow God, even if it meant dethroning granny Maacah! That takes guts.
and also -- pretty cool that the Lord and His army, and the army of Judah (14:13) destroyed the 1 million man army of the Ethiopians. I guess the angels were in on it too!
God's promise to Asa is for us as well: 15:2 "The Lord will stay with you as long as you stay with Him! Whenever you seek Him, you will find Him. OK -- that brings to my mind once again Chris's picture of being on my knees with my arms outstretched! and back full circle to vs 15 "they earnestly sought after God, and they found Him. I think we seek God by looking intently and earnestly in His word, and being still and listening for and to His voice! (still learning about this daily!)
Linda, your post reminds me of what I read in Dear Jesus on Monday. About how God's Presence & His peace are in separable. So I've been focusing this week on those 2 things. If I'm starting to get worked up (no peace) then I stop & think how I must be refusing or pushing Him away because I'm choosing frustration over His being with me, so I'm shoving His peace away too. Might sound simple to you guys but it's been an eye opener for me & been very helpful to see my choices a lot clearer & make changes.
As I read Psalms today I was struck by the gratitude & thankfulness in 118. Then I thought about how the farther we get from an incident, the less gratitude we tend to have. So rehearsing God's deliverance in our lives either via testimony (no matter how many times we repeat it in public) or just between us & God is crucial to keeping a grateful heart.
And for me, a grateful heart is a more compassionate & patient heart towards others.
118:11-14 3 instances where he's in an impossible position, an extreme position, about to die & God steps in & delivers. So then in 14 he says God is my Strength (thru the trial), my song (my Hope in the trial) & NOW He's my Salvation too (because of the deliverance). It also makes me think of Job - "though He slay me, yet will I trust Him..." Even if deliverance isn't in God's plan, He still has been the Strength & Song/Hope during the trial. So who knows what others are seeing while we are being tested. They gotta be thinking "what is it that's keeping them going when their whole life is going to hell in a hand basket? I gotta know!" At least that's what we hope/want them to be thinking.
I love the reoccurring theme of "Your love NEVER quits" (MSG)
Psalms 117--"Praise the Lord all nations everywhere." I am told that there are leaders of many nations right now who don't know what to do. Many countries right now are in turmoil and their leaders are searching for someone, ---anyone who can give them direction. Some are turning to Christian leaders for advice for the first time. (A person is willing to try anything when they're in a crisis) But some are turning to fortune tellers and the occult.
In the beginning of Psalms 118, there is a repetitive phrase. Three times --Israel, the priests (church leaders) and the Gentile converts are told to say (almost like a decree): "His loving kindness is forever."
The Lord is my strength and my song (118:14) and vs: 17--I shall live and declare the works and recount the illustrious acts of the LORD! I going to do that right now. Yesterday, my dog got loose out of the apt and ran and ran. I hopped in the car and chased after him. And then I saw him turn onto Westside Hwy. I pulled the car into the church parking lot to cry because I couldn't face driving down Westside Hwy and seeing him hit by a car, lying in the road. I pleaded the Blood of Jesus on him and asked the Lord to surround Ryleigh with Guardian angels. I opened my eyes and there was Ry at the car door. I opened it and he hopped in. What a miracle! My Lord does miracles for me on a daily basis!
"The stone which the builders rejected is now the cornerstone." (118:22) Yayyyyy--Praise God!
What a great story of God's protection Sher! Hearing those stories keep all of us focused on His amazing love for us as individuals.
Chris -- loved that connection about presence and peace -- just forwarded that paragraph on to someone facing a health challenge.
Man, 117 is short, but to the point! Praise Him! and why? David's mantra: His unfailing love and his enduring faithfulness! It's amazing that He focuses love and faithfulness on US! or even more specific, on ME!
I was thinking about the first couple of verses in 118 -- I could hear in my mind David calling out "Let all Israel repeat" and all Israel would shout back "His faithful love endures forever!" Then David would shout out, "Let Aaron's descendants, the priests, repeat" and all the priests and Levites would shout out "His faithful love endures forever!" etc -- gave me goose bumps!
118:8 is a text I'm sure Jesus read -- really good advice for us daily: "It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in people"
118:24 THIS (this Wednesday!) is the day the Lord has made. We will REJOICE and be glad in it! Rejoice ladies -- who knows what discoveries, miracles, and yes even trials God has in store for you -- He has a plan for each one of us. Here we are - on our knees, arms wide open. Enjoy your day:)
28:1 "...Honest people are relaxed and confident, bold as lions." I think this also has to do with being honest with yourself, who you are. Why do we like being all stressed & putting on the show?
v2 makes me think of all the people who criticize our country's leadership. They think they know it all. I always see it worse in people who are supposedly Christians & especially when a Democrat is in office. I'm so bummed I didn't get that t-shirt I saw at CreationFest that said "God is not a conservative Republican". And it goes without saying He's not the opposite either, but Christians are the worse at this.
v9 "God has no use for the prayers of the people who won't listen to Him." 'Nuff said.
v13 "You can't whitewash your sins and get by with it; you find mercy by admitting and leaving them." It's always pride that keeps me back from admitting when I'm wrong. It's always a relief when I admit I'm not perfect. The funny thing is that when you're watching someone else struggle with this, you KNOW they're wrong & so does everyone else. So what makes it any different than when I'm the one that's wrong. Everyone already knows it, they're just waiting to see if I'll come join them in the real world!
14 - "A tenderhearted person lives a blessed life..." I think this is a born out of a grateful heart too.
Seems like in the last few chapters of Proverbs Solomon keeps sticking a verse in there about flattery vs open rebuke. v23 is no exception. Wonder if that was directed at himself or to his sons or....?
v27 is a quandary because of all the people who are on street corners these days. It's hard to know who's legit or not. I don't want to turn a cold shoulder to someone who really needs my help, but I must admit, I'm pretty callous towards them. I've seen too many cons.
I'm at a loss on those street corners too -- but yeah, makes you wonder why they are just standing waiting for a hand out and not being pro-active - - I take the callous approach too. But, if I see someone that is really trying to make it work, looking actively for a job, finding ways to serve others -- man, I can hardly wait to help them!
Solomon had a lot to say about wealth, maybe because he was so wealthy. And yeah, the flatttery/ honest criticism (vs 23) grabbed me too -- I bet he got a LOT of flattery; and I'm sure he could see right through it (if a poor person with discernment can see right through others (vs 11) what about the wisest man ever?)
What do you make of vs 8 Income from charging high interest rates will end up in the pocket of someone who is kind to the poor? That one didn't wash with me -- usually it ends up in the pockets of the lender and stays there.
Vs 12 "When the godly succeed, everyone is glad -- really true; except those that are jealous of them -- like in Daniels day. But most people are thrilled to have an honest person with integrity and good morals succeed.
Greed causes fighting (vs 25) thinking about all the fights that have come up over a will -- someone dies, the will is read, fights break out -- what's that all about? Someone just DIED! but -- greed causes fighting. The opposite of greed (last part of the verse) trusting the Lord - - and it leads to prosperity. Maybe not financial prosperity, but something even better -- a prosperity of peace:):)
Hmm Linda, yeah I don't really see $$ going back to the poor either but MSGs take on v8 was that "eventually a friend of the poor will give it all back to them". So I guess it's a matter of God bringing it back around to them but in His timing.
Good point about the will & all the arguing. Hadn't thought about that, but that's a real sign of what's going on in the heart for sure!
Wow, a lot of thoughts come to me about Jonah. I relate to him so well. So thankful that God included this book & it's less than perfect prophet or chosen vessel.
It really shows how God uses us IN SPITE of our weaknesses & shortcomings. Otherwise, He'd never get anything done if He were waiting for us to get perfect! (No such thing as Perfect People - Natalie Grant song)
1:10 the men were terrified when Jonah said he worshiped the God who made the land & sea. They realized, it seems, like that was the One to worship. maybe they wanted to but were just ignorant of HOW to. How many around me are like this?
15 - the sea was quiet immediately after Jonah was tossed overboard. Wow!
I wonder if Jonah was not even trying to tread water at this point but was convinced he had to die for his mistake so he just was resigned to that & allowed himself to sink. What thoughts were going thru his mind then? Would it be like jumping off a bldg & having time to think before you hit the bottom & died?
Ch 2 sounds like when he was in the fish that he realized he wasn't going to die. So even in a not so great place, he thanked & praised God & realized he had a 2nd chance. He wasn't totally delivered, not trial free, but yet he praised God. Very interesting.
Ch 3. The people had no clue it seems that they were doing anything wrong. God had said they were in a bad way in His call to Jonah. In 4 God called them child-like. So again, ignorant, but yet tender-hearted - obviously.
Ch 4. So human. Pride comes up in Jonah. Not wanting to see God's mercy, but His judgment on people. He must have been choleric in nature. They have this weakness too. So neat to see how God interacted with Jonah to help him see his pride. Wonder what happened after all that.
So much more, but I'll leave it at that. Gotta finish getting ready to leave for Women of Faith. Won't be posting tomorrow, not taking my laptop! Have a great weekend!
Wow---Jonah reminds me of me! If the Lord had told me in my younger years to go preach doom upon a city unless the people repented, I'd have gone and done it. I was outspoken and willing to do whatever needed to be done. Now that I'm older, I usually THINK before I do things. And I would be thinking---those people are gonna think I'm NUTS and they're NOT going to listen to me.
And sure enough---Jonah preached and the doom and gloom didn't happen. I (like Jonah) would have been ticked off that destruction wasn't poured out on Ninevah.
Hmmm -- I wonder if Jonah was a Joe-blow guy like us, or a really truly prophet. When asked who he was in 1:9 he said: I'm a Hebrew and I worship the Lord . . . nothing about being a prophet there.
So -- yes Sher I agree with you that I'd have been pretty afraid the people would think I was nuts too -- and I KNOW I'd hesitate. . . that's just it, we've been reading lately not to depend on what man thinks, but what God thinks . . . a tough lesson for me to internalize. And Chris -- I thought the same thing about the treading water -- I wondered if they shackled him before throwing him in (kindof like a no turning back sacrifice) He certainly sunk and didn't come bobbing up to the surface as you'd expect in calm calm water.
Pretty cool that God reached out to the sailors through all of this -- God, always reaching out.
So, I've been thinking about how eager Jonah was for his "second chance" claiming that God would be willing to answer him even before that happened (2:2) YET -- he was so unwilling for God to extend the 2nd chance to others - - especially if he (Jonah) was left looking silly in the process. I'm glad God was willing to change His mind - - 3:10; again it reminds me of Pastor Jon's sermon that God works with us and is flexible when we change our ways (If my people . . . will humble themselves and pray - - then!)
Man - those poor Ninevite animals (3:7) but God even remembers those poor beasts in 4:11!
It's amazing to me that God chose Jonah -- he was fearful, angry, lazy (asleep while all the work is going on), it was all about him (4:3) I'd rataher be dead than alive if what "I" predicted will not happen. Hello -- he was just the mouth piece; yet he's taking full credit.
Does it bring you peace to know that God was willing to work with this individual? Does it bring me peace to know that God is willing to work with me? I too see so many pieces of Jonah in my life.
I was going to say, what a contrast between Jonah's compassion for people and the compassion Moses and David had for people -- but then M & D were showing compassion for their own nation -- I wonder if M & D would have had intense compassion for other nations? Apparently God cared for other nations (I'm not sure where I'm going with this!)
Linda said: "... I'd have been pretty afraid the people would think I was nuts too -- and I KNOW I'd hesitate. . . that's just it, we've been reading lately not to depend on what man thinks, but what God thinks."
Wow---I must have missed those readings because that is NOT what the Lord is emphasizing in my life at this time. The Lord does take me through times of learning obedience and He probably will again---but that's not what the Lord is highlighting in my life at moment. I believe that sometimes the Lord deals with his people individually and sometimes He deals with them corporately. So maybe He's working out something corporately with your church or one of your groups.
For me, the lesson daily is LOOK for MY supernatural miracles. Daily, I am to watch for the Lord's supernatural intervention in my life. And I am amazed.
But I live on a faith budget with very little means of visible support. I don't have a husband or partner to rely on except for the Lord. And my health at the moment prevents me from employment. Therefore, the Lord is all I want because He's all I have.
Did some thinking about the begger (which in this case, I view as me) sitting OUTSIDE that beautiful gate -- day after day -- focused on my immediate needs. Here comes hope (Peter and John) hope looks intently at me (verse 4) hope says look at me (get your focus off your immediate needs) As soon as I look eagerly at hope -- hope comes through giving me the ability not only to walk, but to leap, to praise God -- and most importantly to come into His presence (vs 8) accompanied with hope!
3:12 Peter saw his opportunity. Peter was now constantly on the look out for ways to give glory to God.
vs 14 is a repeat of 2:23; Peter doesn't mince words, but puts that accountability on the people -- he wanted them to own up to their rejection, as that was the key then to repenting and turning.
The whole Bible is summed up in vs 13 - 21. Starting with the OT ancestors who claimed God as their source of strength. Jesus then was handed over and rejected; God raised Him again -- it's through faith in HIM that we receive power. As soon as we repent & turn - He wipes our sins away. We receive refreshment (Holy Spirit) Jesus will return for the final restoration of all things! Genesis - Revelation:)
The numbers had grown -- more than doubled including women and children. and here is our Peter -- the one so quick to deny Jesus BOLDLY preaching before all the Jewish leaders! I love how Jesus promise to them (us) was fulfilled from Luke 21:12-15
The Acts 2 church is again happening in Acts 4. A church filled with gratitude, passion and generosity. I found it kind of interesting that "there were no needy people among them" (that would be the group of believers). Hmmmmm -- this might be a clue to the problem of the guy on the street corner asking for a handout. Do you think the Acts 2/4 church is talking about meeting the needs of Christian believers as our primary target? hmmmmm - need to think here
Acts 3:6--Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have, I'll give to you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk! And the people were amazed. (3:11) I love this. These men were without money and education---they were common in the eyes of the people. But they knew how to use the name of Jesus and that's all they needed.
These 3 chapters seem to focus on Christ's role as our high priest. Paul starts right off with the function of a HP in 5:1 to "represent other people" How great is that to have JESUS as my representative - standing in for me!!
ReplyDeleteGod chose him for this work, so God must be on my side, right? If God wanted me to fail, He wouldn't have chosen perfect Jesus to represent me.
I'm guilty as charged in 5:12: you've been believers so long now that you ought to be teaching others, instead, you need someone to teach you again the basic things about God's word. I was raised in a Christian home -- but it's only NOW as I'm going through God's word piece by piece that I am seeing SO MANY new things! and I expect to see more new things and make more new connections in 2012! (hint hint, I want to do this again, anybody else?)
6:4 is pretty scary: "it is impossible to bring back to repentance those who were once enlightened .. . and who then turn away from God" Why did he say that when Jesus said, with God, All things are possible. Is Paul talking about rejecting the Holy Spirit? and once rejected, is there no hope of turning back? There has to be - - or why would the disciples be working so hard for the salvation of other people's souls?
and then . . . in vs 9 Paul says: "even though we are talking this way, we really don't believe it applies to you - - ok then, who does it apply to??
6:12 calls for faith and endurance - - this suggests that His followers can expect trials and temptations - - we are not called to journey on a cruise ship, but a battle ship.
I like the thought in 6:19 that says "our hope . . . leads us through the curtain into God's inner sanctuary" that would be God's presence which fits nicely with coming BOLDLY to the throne of grace. Even though God's perfection and glory are to much for our mortal bodies (like Moses only being able to see His back) God wants us near; He wants us to come, even if it is only emotionally and spiritually during this time we can't approach him physically.
Melchizadek - - the only thing I can figure is the M is God. Otherwise, where are the ancestors, how can M live forever with no beginning or end? So it was GOD that came out to meet Abraham (if my idea has merit) and God is not limited to a linage (such as Levi) He is is own lineage (I AM) and Paul is trying to explain that to people locked into the idea that to be a priest -- you HAVE to be a Levite.
I love Paul's passion in 7:25 Therefore Hi is able once and forever, to SAVE those who come to God through Him. Hallelujah! What a SAVIOR!
I agree with you, Linda that Melchizedek must have been Christ appearing to Abraham in human form. Hebrews 7:3 says Mel had no father or mother.-- But I'm getting ahead of myself.
ReplyDeleteIn 5:1 it says that a Jewish High Priest is a man like anyone else, but he is CHOSEN to speak for all other men in their dealings with God. This got me to thinking about Pastors in general. When visiting different churches, you can almost tell which Pastors have been CHOSEN by God and which ones probably were talked into it by their mothers. Chosen people stand out.
It also says in the beginning of Hebrews that priests have the ability to deal gently with other men--though they're foolish and ignorant---the priest understands.
I'm not a priest, and I'm having a heck of a time this week with my bad attitude towards my fellow man. I have to give Priests, Pastors and Ministers, etc a lot of credit because I don't understand how they can possibly tolerate some people.
Heb 5:7---Christ pleaded with God with tears and agony to save Him from death. I'm wondering if this was premature death--because I'm sure that Satan would have loved to have taken Christ out early in life before He had to die on the cross. Or was Christ pleading with God to spare Him from death on the cross?
Heb 6:4 There's no use trying to come back to the Lord once you've understood the gospel
and then you've turned against God. You can't nail God to the cross again.
The author must be speaking of something other than just committing sins here. He seems to be speaking of a complete turnaround of a person's mindset. I'm thinking that he's speaking of Satan worship --someone giving their whole mind and body to the power of Satan because they believe Satan's power to be greater than the power of Jesus. Jesus defeated Satan at the cross, but Satan is a great deceiver concerning the minds of men.
Heb 6:9-10---I don't feel like I'm producing much good fruit. Most of my children aren't saved and most of my 8 grandchildren don't know the Lord.
A big Thank you to Chris who fixed my computer one MORE time!
ReplyDeleteI think a true leader has to deal with those under them remembering that at one time they didn't know/understand basic things either & royally screwed them up at times. Takes a lot of patience. Not one of my fortes at all. But I like how it's put at the beginning of 5. Pretty encouraging.
ReplyDelete5:8 "Though he was God's Son, he learned trusting-obedience by what he suffered, just as we do." He really was entitled to cruise through His life here on earth, but He went thru the same growing pains/learning curves that we do. How can we think we're not gonna have to suffer at all since we've chosen to follow Him. His footsteps lead right down the middle of suffering lane!
I agree with you guys about M being God. Although I tend to think he's the HS not Christ. Mainly because Christ is after the order of M, so not after the order of Himself. But that's just my opinion. But pretty neat to think of the HS in the flesh at one point in time. Will be one of the things we'll find out in heaven.
7:26 "So now we have a high priest who perfectly fits our needs..." So grateful for that. I hope my life shows how grateful I am instead of just my lips saying it.
Didn't get any inspiration from Numbers this a.m. although I thought it was nice that Balaam got his & maybe some of the Israelites who had been affected by him got to see it before they died off. Or maybe it was just Moses. Guess he was the last one to die before Canaan.
ReplyDeleteYeah - pretty dry reading; I'm glad I'm not the only one!!
ReplyDeleteThe Festivals all came in one big glob; trumpets, day of atonement, festival of Shelters. They all seemed to focus on 2 things: sacrifice and offerings. It reminded me of something Chris you said months ago -- for our offerings to really mean something, they need to cost us something; money, time, emotions -- if it's all out of our excess, then I guess we haven't given God the best of the first of our blessings.
The vow business in 30 -- hmmm, wonder what that vowing was all about? Maybe a clue in verse 13 "so her husband may either confirm or nullify any vows or pledges she makes to deny herself. So -- she's denying herself something - - with all the emphasis on children in the OT, maybe sex? I sure don't understand this vow business, and why the husband/father can cancel out a vow between and woman and God - - makes no sense to me.
another confusing issue -- why did the young virgins get spared? (31:17) it seems like they would be affected by the gods/homelife they grew up in. Yeah, I noticed that about Balaam as well!
I appreciated the spirit of humility with the tribes of Reuben and Gad -- you don't often see that involving the 12 tribes. "We your servants" -- said many times, willing to ask before doing, willing to pull their weight in warfare for their brothers - - it was nice to see a spirit that was "team" instead of "all about us" No doubt it was a breath of fresh air for both Moses and God as well - - take away, be willing to ask, willing to listen, willing to make adjustments.
Kindof reminded me of your situation Chris, when you went to your boss and said that you'd work hard for them any day but Sabbath. They respected that, and you were able to make it work out! Leadership respects hard working team members - - they are a breath of fresh air!
I knew that teacher part of you would find something to pull out of that reading! Nice! :)
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ReplyDeleteI didn't think that this was a dry reading at all. I always get the most out of our Monday readings. ( Must fit my personality.) There was a lot to unpack in today's reading, but I'll stick to one topic.
ReplyDeleteNumbers 29 begins with the Festival (or Feast) of Trumpets. It's a very treasured festival according to my beliefs.
The Feast of Trumpets is also known as Rosh Hashanah . Many Christians observe this feast because of its prophetic application – the Rapture of the Church.
“Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality.” (1 Corinthians 15:51-53)
Rosh HaShanah is the Day of the Sounding of the Shofar (Trumpet). On this day, it is important for every person to hear the shofar.
Rosh Hashanah (Feast of Trumpets) is the only festival that no man knows exactly when it will occur. This is because it begins during the new moon. The new moon is declared when two witnesses see the new moon and testify to it before the Sanhedrin in the Temple.
This testimony could happen anytime over a 48 hour period. Since no one knew when the witnesses would come, no one knew when the Feast of Trumpets would begin.
This is why Jesus said in Matt.24--No one knows the date and hour when the end (rapture) will be.
Wow--that was a lot of explaining---Hope I made sense.
Interesting Sherrie, didn't know that about how the Jews figured out the new moon. They were supposed to be good astronomers back then so I figured they had it pin pointed like we do today. Nice that we don't have to wait to find out when it's gonna be - just look on your calendar.
ReplyDeleteI like that text in Corinthians too that points to the 2nd Coming/rapture of God's people. Can't wait to see people coming up out of their graves & reuniting with everyone. Gonna be an awesome reunion on the trip to heaven!
I'm glad one of us enjoy Monday's reading! LOL
In today's, I thought it was interesting that Rehoboam respected the prophets counsel. So it seems like he was open to God in some way. Just not totally abandoned to Him. And it seems like as he built up his cities & armies, that he started to rely more & more on man's strength then Gods.
But then he acknowledged his error when the prophet confronted him again. Hmmm, that luke-warm type of Christianity it seems like. I can relate. It's a wonder God puts up with us so long. He really pursues us to get us to surrender every part of us to Him.
12:14 "...God was not important to him; his heart neither cared for nor sought after God." Pretty sad commentary on the whole of R's life. Only if it affected him did he repent. Only when he had to suffer consequences, but it seems he never fully repented then if he didn't fully seek God. There was no definite change in him or his heart. Sad.
I like Abijah's speech to Israel & how they relied on God to help them. Seems like when Jeroboam was told by a prophet of God that he would be king that he would want to keep God close at hand & listen to that counsel. I wonder why he thought he could improve on God by setting up his own system of worship.
Abijah seemed a bit deeper than his father. Maybe he learned from his mistakes.
One thing I noticed in Asa & Judah's commitment to God. They decided to kill anyone that didn't want to worship & totally commit to God. I'm a bit torn here. Seems like that's religious persecution or forcing someone's conscience. I wonder how many just said they would but had not interest in it. Why didn't they just make them leave?
On the other hand, God had them, or at least wanted them to, totally wipe out the Canaanite worshipers so they wouldn't be a stumbling block to them. So maybe it would have split families & pulled people away because of that.
I can see this repeating (Reformation period in Europe; Pilgrims/religious asylum seekers in America vs Indians/others who came over with them; etc) in history & according to the Bible, in the near future as well here in America. It's happening in other countries all the time.
Linda said: "..it's only NOW as I'm going through God's word piece by piece that I am seeing SO MANY new things! and I expect to see more new things and make more new connections in 2012! (hint hint, I want to do this again, anybody else?)"
ReplyDeleteYep Linda---
I want to keep doing this. In my whole life, I've never been this diligent in the reading of Gods word. Now my day begins with an awesome focus on the Lord.
(And that's sayin somethin cause I'm OLD! Tallon asked me to count up to how old I am yesterday. He's 1,2,3. Do you know how long it takes to count up to almost 60???
That's great Sher -- I think that's what God wants too! You're just like one of the tribe of Judah in chapter 15: 12 they entered into a covenant to seek the Lord, the God of their ancestors, with all their heart and soul and vs 15 They earnestly sought after God, and they FOUND HIM! That's what I want too! I want to seek with everything and FIND HIM! (I agree Chris -- can't quite understand how to grapple with them killing those that didn't seek -- but interesting that Maacah was only deposed and not killed)
ReplyDeleteBack to 11! I had to laugh at 11:4 as I think this is probably good advice in a lot of situations! "Do not fight against your relatives, Go back home!"
I appreciate the Levites and many others leaving their families, their tribes, their homes to join Judah so they could continue to worship the true God -- that takes courage and a persevering, focused-on-God heart.
I bet Maacah was beautiful, as Absolum, her father was very handsome - probably that's why she was the favorite wife (or maybe she was just a good cook)
I was reminded once again of Pastor Jon's sermon about how God works with humans and their choices. In 12:7 the Lord saw their change of heart, so he changed his form of punishment.
Wow -- Judah was over 2 to 1 by Israel, they were being attacked from the front and back -- and in the heat of the moment they cried to the Lord. When it seemed impossible -- they sounded the trumpets for battle (notice the 2 times trumpets are mentioned in 13 (vs 12 and 14); and I love how Abijah shouted to the 800,000 men (that's some powerful shouting -- no P.A. system; they must have had amazing lungs back then)
I wonder if Asa was in the troops that day, watching his dad proclaim God's blessing on the people that obeyed him. I wonder if that might be part of the reason Asa was so determined to follow God -- he SAW the miracle of the 2 to 1 match! and wow -- Asa was determined to follow God, even if it meant dethroning granny Maacah! That takes guts.
and also -- pretty cool that the Lord and His army, and the army of Judah (14:13) destroyed the 1 million man army of the Ethiopians. I guess the angels were in on it too!
God's promise to Asa is for us as well: 15:2 "The Lord will stay with you as long as you stay with Him! Whenever you seek Him, you will find Him. OK -- that brings to my mind once again Chris's picture of being on my knees with my arms outstretched! and back full circle to vs 15 "they earnestly sought after God, and they found Him. I think we seek God by looking intently and earnestly in His word, and being still and listening for and to His voice! (still learning about this daily!)
Linda, your post reminds me of what I read in Dear Jesus on Monday. About how God's Presence & His peace are in separable. So I've been focusing this week on those 2 things. If I'm starting to get worked up (no peace) then I stop & think how I must be refusing or pushing Him away because I'm choosing frustration over His being with me, so I'm shoving His peace away too. Might sound simple to you guys but it's been an eye opener for me & been very helpful to see my choices a lot clearer & make changes.
ReplyDeleteAs I read Psalms today I was struck by the gratitude & thankfulness in 118. Then I thought about how the farther we get from an incident, the less gratitude we tend to have. So rehearsing God's deliverance in our lives either via testimony (no matter how many times we repeat it in public) or just between us & God is crucial to keeping a grateful heart.
And for me, a grateful heart is a more compassionate & patient heart towards others.
118:11-14 3 instances where he's in an impossible position, an extreme position, about to die & God steps in & delivers. So then in 14 he says God is my Strength (thru the trial), my song (my Hope in the trial) & NOW He's my Salvation too (because of the deliverance). It also makes me think of Job - "though He slay me, yet will I trust Him..." Even if deliverance isn't in God's plan, He still has been the Strength & Song/Hope during the trial. So who knows what others are seeing while we are being tested. They gotta be thinking "what is it that's keeping them going when their whole life is going to hell in a hand basket? I gotta know!" At least that's what we hope/want them to be thinking.
I love the reoccurring theme of "Your love NEVER quits" (MSG)
Psalms 117--"Praise the Lord all nations everywhere." I am told that there are leaders of many nations right now who don't know what to do. Many countries right now are in turmoil and their leaders are searching for someone, ---anyone who can give them direction. Some are turning to Christian leaders for advice for the first time. (A person is willing to try anything when they're in a crisis) But some are turning to fortune tellers and the occult.
ReplyDeleteIn the beginning of Psalms 118, there is a repetitive phrase. Three times --Israel, the priests (church leaders) and the Gentile converts are told to say (almost like a decree): "His loving kindness is forever."
The Lord is my strength and my song (118:14) and vs: 17--I shall live and declare the works and recount the illustrious acts of the LORD! I going to do that right now. Yesterday, my dog got loose out of the apt and ran and ran. I hopped in the car and chased after him. And then I saw him turn onto Westside Hwy. I pulled the car into the church parking lot to cry because I couldn't face driving down Westside Hwy and seeing him hit by a car, lying in the road. I pleaded the Blood of Jesus on him and asked the Lord to surround Ryleigh with Guardian angels. I opened my eyes and there was Ry at the car door. I opened it and he hopped in. What a miracle! My Lord does miracles for me on a daily basis!
"The stone which the builders rejected is now the cornerstone." (118:22) Yayyyyy--Praise God!
That's cool Sherrie! Guess he just wanted some running exercise. You should put him on the treadmill again! LOL
ReplyDeleteWhat a great story of God's protection Sher! Hearing those stories keep all of us focused on His amazing love for us as individuals.
ReplyDeleteChris -- loved that connection about presence and peace -- just forwarded that paragraph on to someone facing a health challenge.
Man, 117 is short, but to the point! Praise Him! and why? David's mantra: His unfailing love and his enduring faithfulness! It's amazing that He focuses love and faithfulness on US! or even more specific, on ME!
I was thinking about the first couple of verses in 118 -- I could hear in my mind David calling out "Let all Israel repeat" and all Israel would shout back "His faithful love endures forever!" Then David would shout out, "Let Aaron's descendants, the priests, repeat" and all the priests and Levites would shout out "His faithful love endures forever!" etc -- gave me goose bumps!
118:8 is a text I'm sure Jesus read -- really good advice for us daily: "It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in people"
118:24 THIS (this Wednesday!) is the day the Lord has made. We will REJOICE and be glad in it! Rejoice ladies -- who knows what discoveries, miracles, and yes even trials God has in store for you -- He has a plan for each one of us. Here we are - on our knees, arms wide open. Enjoy your day:)
28:1 "...Honest people are relaxed and confident, bold as lions." I think this also has to do with being honest with yourself, who you are. Why do we like being all stressed & putting on the show?
ReplyDeletev2 makes me think of all the people who criticize our country's leadership. They think they know it all. I always see it worse in people who are supposedly Christians & especially when a Democrat is in office. I'm so bummed I didn't get that t-shirt I saw at CreationFest that said "God is not a conservative Republican". And it goes without saying He's not the opposite either, but Christians are the worse at this.
v9 "God has no use for the prayers of the people who won't listen to Him." 'Nuff said.
v13 "You can't whitewash your sins and get by with it; you find mercy by admitting and leaving them." It's always pride that keeps me back from admitting when I'm wrong. It's always a relief when I admit I'm not perfect. The funny thing is that when you're watching someone else struggle with this, you KNOW they're wrong & so does everyone else. So what makes it any different than when I'm the one that's wrong. Everyone already knows it, they're just waiting to see if I'll come join them in the real world!
14 - "A tenderhearted person lives a blessed life..." I think this is a born out of a grateful heart too.
Seems like in the last few chapters of Proverbs Solomon keeps sticking a verse in there about flattery vs open rebuke. v23 is no exception. Wonder if that was directed at himself or to his sons or....?
v27 is a quandary because of all the people who are on street corners these days. It's hard to know who's legit or not. I don't want to turn a cold shoulder to someone who really needs my help, but I must admit, I'm pretty callous towards them. I've seen too many cons.
I'm at a loss on those street corners too -- but yeah, makes you wonder why they are just standing waiting for a hand out and not being pro-active - - I take the callous approach too. But, if I see someone that is really trying to make it work, looking actively for a job, finding ways to serve others -- man, I can hardly wait to help them!
ReplyDeleteSolomon had a lot to say about wealth, maybe because he was so wealthy. And yeah, the flatttery/ honest criticism (vs 23) grabbed me too -- I bet he got a LOT of flattery; and I'm sure he could see right through it (if a poor person with discernment can see right through others (vs 11) what about the wisest man ever?)
What do you make of vs 8 Income from charging high interest rates will end up in the pocket of someone who is kind to the poor? That one didn't wash with me -- usually it ends up in the pockets of the lender and stays there.
Vs 12 "When the godly succeed, everyone is glad -- really true; except those that are jealous of them -- like in Daniels day. But most people are thrilled to have an honest person with integrity and good morals succeed.
Greed causes fighting (vs 25) thinking about all the fights that have come up over a will -- someone dies, the will is read, fights break out -- what's that all about? Someone just DIED! but -- greed causes fighting. The opposite of greed (last part of the verse) trusting the Lord - - and it leads to prosperity. Maybe not financial prosperity, but something even better -- a prosperity of peace:):)
Hmm Linda, yeah I don't really see $$ going back to the poor either but MSGs take on v8 was that "eventually a friend of the poor will give it all back to them". So I guess it's a matter of God bringing it back around to them but in His timing.
ReplyDeleteGood point about the will & all the arguing. Hadn't thought about that, but that's a real sign of what's going on in the heart for sure!
Wow, a lot of thoughts come to me about Jonah. I relate to him so well. So thankful that God included this book & it's less than perfect prophet or chosen vessel.
ReplyDeleteIt really shows how God uses us IN SPITE of our weaknesses & shortcomings. Otherwise, He'd never get anything done if He were waiting for us to get perfect! (No such thing as Perfect People - Natalie Grant song)
1:10 the men were terrified when Jonah said he worshiped the God who made the land & sea. They realized, it seems, like that was the One to worship. maybe they wanted to but were just ignorant of HOW to. How many around me are like this?
15 - the sea was quiet immediately after Jonah was tossed overboard. Wow!
I wonder if Jonah was not even trying to tread water at this point but was convinced he had to die for his mistake so he just was resigned to that & allowed himself to sink. What thoughts were going thru his mind then? Would it be like jumping off a bldg & having time to think before you hit the bottom & died?
Ch 2 sounds like when he was in the fish that he realized he wasn't going to die. So even in a not so great place, he thanked & praised God & realized he had a 2nd chance. He wasn't totally delivered, not trial free, but yet he praised God. Very interesting.
Ch 3. The people had no clue it seems that they were doing anything wrong. God had said they were in a bad way in His call to Jonah. In 4 God called them child-like. So again, ignorant, but yet tender-hearted - obviously.
Ch 4. So human. Pride comes up in Jonah. Not wanting to see God's mercy, but His judgment on people. He must have been choleric in nature. They have this weakness too. So neat to see how God interacted with Jonah to help him see his pride. Wonder what happened after all that.
So much more, but I'll leave it at that. Gotta finish getting ready to leave for Women of Faith. Won't be posting tomorrow, not taking my laptop! Have a great weekend!
Wow---Jonah reminds me of me! If the Lord had told me in my younger years to go preach doom upon a city unless the people repented, I'd have gone and done it. I was outspoken and willing to do whatever needed to be done. Now that I'm older, I usually THINK before I do things. And I would be thinking---those people are gonna think I'm NUTS and they're NOT going to listen to me.
ReplyDeleteAnd sure enough---Jonah preached and the doom and gloom didn't happen. I (like Jonah) would have been ticked off that destruction wasn't poured out on Ninevah.
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ReplyDeleteHmmm -- I wonder if Jonah was a Joe-blow guy like us, or a really truly prophet. When asked who he was in 1:9 he said: I'm a Hebrew and I worship the Lord . . . nothing about being a prophet there.
ReplyDeleteSo -- yes Sher I agree with you that I'd have been pretty afraid the people would think I was nuts too -- and I KNOW I'd hesitate. . . that's just it, we've been reading lately not to depend on what man thinks, but what God thinks . . . a tough lesson for me to internalize. And Chris -- I thought the same thing about the treading water -- I wondered if they shackled him before throwing him in (kindof like a no turning back sacrifice) He certainly sunk and didn't come bobbing up to the surface as you'd expect in calm calm water.
Pretty cool that God reached out to the sailors through all of this -- God, always reaching out.
So, I've been thinking about how eager Jonah was for his "second chance" claiming that God would be willing to answer him even before that happened (2:2) YET -- he was so unwilling for God to extend the 2nd chance to others - - especially if he (Jonah) was left looking silly in the process. I'm glad God was willing to change His mind - - 3:10; again it reminds me of Pastor Jon's sermon that God works with us and is flexible when we change our ways (If my people . . . will humble themselves and pray - - then!)
Man - those poor Ninevite animals (3:7) but God even remembers those poor beasts in 4:11!
It's amazing to me that God chose Jonah -- he was fearful, angry, lazy (asleep while all the work is going on), it was all about him (4:3) I'd rataher be dead than alive if what "I" predicted will not happen. Hello -- he was just the mouth piece; yet he's taking full credit.
Does it bring you peace to know that God was willing to work with this individual? Does it bring me peace to know that God is willing to work with me? I too see so many pieces of Jonah in my life.
I was going to say, what a contrast between Jonah's compassion for people and the compassion Moses and David had for people -- but then M & D were showing compassion for their own nation -- I wonder if M & D would have had intense compassion for other nations? Apparently God cared for other nations (I'm not sure where I'm going with this!)
Have fun with WofF Chris -- we'll miss you:):)
Linda said: "... I'd have been pretty afraid the people would think I was nuts too -- and I KNOW I'd hesitate. . . that's just it, we've been reading lately not to depend on what man thinks, but what God thinks."
ReplyDeleteWow---I must have missed those readings because that is NOT what the Lord is emphasizing in my life at this time. The Lord does take me through times of learning obedience and He probably will again---but that's not what the Lord is highlighting in my life at moment. I believe that sometimes the Lord deals with his people individually and sometimes He deals with them corporately. So maybe He's working out something corporately with your church or one of your groups.
For me, the lesson daily is LOOK for MY supernatural miracles. Daily, I am to watch for the Lord's supernatural intervention in my life. And I am amazed.
But I live on a faith budget with very little means of visible support. I don't have a husband or partner to rely on except for the Lord. And my health at the moment prevents me from employment. Therefore, the Lord is all I want because He's all I have.
Sher your last paragraph is such a beautiful testimony to how God is moving in your life and becoming your All in All!
ReplyDeleteThe Lord is all I want because He's all I have -- words of encouragement for my day:) Blessings and hugs!
Did some thinking about the begger (which in this case, I view as me) sitting OUTSIDE that beautiful gate -- day after day -- focused on my immediate needs. Here comes hope (Peter and John) hope looks intently at me (verse 4) hope says look at me (get your focus off your immediate needs) As soon as I look eagerly at hope -- hope comes through giving me the ability not only to walk, but to leap, to praise God -- and most importantly to come into His presence (vs 8) accompanied with hope!
ReplyDelete3:12 Peter saw his opportunity. Peter was now constantly on the look out for ways to give glory to God.
vs 14 is a repeat of 2:23; Peter doesn't mince words, but puts that accountability on the people -- he wanted them to own up to their rejection, as that was the key then to repenting and turning.
The whole Bible is summed up in vs 13 - 21. Starting with the OT ancestors who claimed God as their source of strength. Jesus then was handed over and rejected; God raised Him again -- it's through faith in HIM that we receive power. As soon as we repent & turn - He wipes our sins away. We receive refreshment (Holy Spirit) Jesus will return for the final restoration of all things! Genesis - Revelation:)
The numbers had grown -- more than doubled including women and children. and here is our Peter -- the one so quick to deny Jesus BOLDLY preaching before all the Jewish leaders! I love how Jesus promise to them (us) was fulfilled from Luke 21:12-15
The Acts 2 church is again happening in Acts 4. A church filled with gratitude, passion and generosity. I found it kind of interesting that "there were no needy people among them" (that would be the group of believers). Hmmmmm -- this might be a clue to the problem of the guy on the street corner asking for a handout. Do you think the Acts 2/4 church is talking about meeting the needs of Christian believers as our primary target? hmmmmm - need to think here
Thanks Linda.
ReplyDeleteActs 3:6--Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have, I'll give to you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk!
And the people were amazed. (3:11)
I love this. These men were without money and education---they were common in the eyes of the people.
But they knew how to use the name of Jesus and that's all they needed.