Hebrews 8:10--I will write my laws into their minds and hearts...so that they will obey them. Linda---I think this is the answer to your question of whether to help out a homeless person on the street corner. The Lord speaks to us --(I don't know what you guys believe--) and his sheep (not lambs) hear His voice. So all you have to do is obey the voice of the Lord concerning each individual situation you come upon. Sometimes, the Lord may tell you to help someone out and other times He may tell you to pass them by. It just comes naturally. ( But maybe this is only natural to those who are Baptizsed and filled by the Holy Spirit---and that's another whole issue which I wont get into here)
Hebrews 9:21-22--everything was cleansed by sprinkling it with blood--the tent, the instruments---everything. That is why those who walk in the power of the Holy Spirit use annointing oils to cleanse everything. (Homes, pets, computers, boundary lines, illnesses, children etc. etc.)
Hebrews 10:18-20 So now dear sisters, we can walk right into the HOLY of HOLIES where God is. And Psalm 100:4 will take us there. We get to enter into the HOLY presence of God. We need to soak in His presence. The Lord has been calling me into soaking worship---something I've been neglecting.
Hebrews 10:39---The just shall live by faith----not by what they can see, smell, taste, hear or feel. And next week in Hebrews 11 we get to feast on faith. Our Bibles ought to fall open automatically at Hebrews 11 if we're living by faith.
Yes, Sherrie, I agree with you, God does speak to us & let us know who to help & who to pass by. I know I have been baptized by the HS & have heard His voice on many occasions. Another whole topic is whether we choose to obey it or be like Jonah.
As I read Hebrews I thought, why did God give them an inferior plan in the first place? But for those hearts who were open, it made them look for the Messiah to come that would put an end or as Paul puts it "abolish in His flesh the...law of commandments contained in ordinances, so as to create in Himself one new man..." Eph 2:15
Heb 8:13 - "By coming up with a new plan, a new covenant between God and his people, God put the old plan on the shelf. And there it stays, gathering dust." So that's why we (Christians) don't sacrifice anymore. It's now a inner heart work, done on the inside first & radiates outward. This is brought on by the sacrifice of our hearts - not animals.
10:24,25 "Let's see how inventive we can be in encouraging love and helping out, not avoiding worshiping together as some do but spurring each other on, especially as we see the big Day approaching." Really like how the MSG puts this. How inventive can we be to encourage each other in Christ? Might mean, sometimes we disagree if it sends us back to the Word (not people's books) to find out what we believe, then that's a good thing.
10:38,39 - the call to remember our first love, remember when we gave our hearts to Christ & we were tender-hearted yet bold to speak for Christ. It was born out of gratitude & we need to call that to mind again & again so we remember why we're here & what we're walking toward.
Yes, Chris---I'm aware that you listen to the voice of the Lord.
Numbers 33:3-5---Here I'm reading about how God's people were leaving Egypt as the Egyptians were burying their eldest sons, killed by the Lord. The Lords wrath was poured out on the Egyptians. And I turn on the news today and I see 23 Christians have just been killed by the Egyptian military who are in control of Egypt now that MuBarek is gone. Amazing! Egypt was important to God's purposes in Biblical times and Egypt is important to His purposes now.
Hebrews 34:3-11 I love how God defines the boundaries for His people.
Hebrews 35:30---All murderers must be executed but only is there is more than one witness. I wonder how many innocent people are in US prisons because this law was not followed. vs.33--Kill the murderers---then the land will not be considered polluted.
When I was a realtor back in the 80's and 90's---we used to have to disclose to the buyer that a murder had been committed, if we sold a home in which a murder had taken place. Now you wouldn't find me purchasing a place where that happened, but it never bothered any of the buyers I worked with. I was always amazed at that.
2 days in one for me! I didn't have a chance yesterday; so I'll start with Numbers and work back to Hebrews (loved Heb this morning!!!)
Numbers: I'm glad Aaron died in mid-summer; just nicer to have the sun shining -- and he was 123 (thinking to the cities of refuge and you couldn't leave until the high priest died -- might be quite a wait!)
Capital punishment big in the Bible -- but God is fair -- 2 witnesses. I appreciate it, and if we were more intentional today, we'd probably have a safer planet. But - did you notice that the avenger was the relative of the slain? There's something in that - not sure what. Today we would not allow the relatives to take matters in their own hands -- and Sher -- I don't think I'd buy a house where a murder had happened - it'd give me the creeps!
Those daughters of Z sure stirred things up!! I wonder if they fell in love with someone from another tribe if they'd be able to turn the land back in for love?
OK - on to Hebrews!I have so much of this reading circled and underlined! But -- I'll stick with a few points that popped out.
First of all & most exciting to me -- I've always heard that the old covenant was done away with and the new covenant is now in place - - I still am a firm believer that ceremonial laws pointing TO Christ were no longer necessary and those ended at the cross -- but I can't buy that the 10 commandments were done away with. OK - here's where I'm going with all this. I put the passage from Heb 8:10-12 together with Revelation 21:5.
The key word here is NEW! God says in Rev that He will make all things NEW when He comes again. I think that also means the NEW covenant. It says in 8:10 that the NEW covenant will be made with the people ON THAT DAY. and later it talks about "they won't need to teach their neighbors, nor will they need to teach their relatives . . . for everyone, from the least to the greatest, will know me already" The only time that will ever happen in earths history will be in heaven after evil is destroyed. Then His laws will be written on our hearts - evil will no longer have a hold on us. What do you guys think? He talks about it again in 10:16
I soaked in 9:28 for awhile -- what a great promise: He will come again, not to deal with our sins, but to bring salvation to all who are EAGERLY waiting for Him!! and I think God is EAGERLY waiting for us:) His kids:)
I always like the "here's what you do" aspect of the Bible writers. In 10 23ish: HOld tightly to hope, Think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works, Don't neglect meeting together for encouragement.
Tough times back then -- and I believe as long as we are on this earth, history can repeat itself (10:34) but amazing that "you acceptited it with joy!" Why? because you knew there were better things waiting for you that will last forever (I put an exclamation point by THAT!) Patient endurance is what you need now - - what calming words.
AND the strong finish: In just a little while, the coming ONE will come and not delay - and my righteous ones will live by faith. That was written 2000 years ago, we've got to be close now. and God's pathos comes out when he says in vs 38 "I will take no pleasure in anyone who turns away" in other words - it breaks His heart.
I've always kindof focused on Heb 11 -- the mighty faith chapter, but Heb 8-10 is A-MAZING!
Wow--good stuff, Linda. The Lord just performed my miracle of the day. I was at the grocery store to buy food for my dog, Ry. When the total came up on the cash register, I realized I had calculated wrong and didn't have enough money. The cashier helped pay for my dog food! Amazing!
Really good thoughts on the new covenant & heaven Linda! Sherrie, that was really nice of the clerk to help you out. Glad God put that on her heart to do.
A bit better reading today for me. Glad you 2 are getting something out of Mondays. Just makes me thankful I wasn't alive back then.
I like Jehoshaphat better than his father. Seems like Asa lost interest in God there near the end. I can see thru J's decisions that he didn't have a lot of good counsel around him. Maybe he was just immature, but why did he team up with Ahab? I wonder if he thought he could "witness" to him like we often think when we enter into friendships/romances with blatant non-believers.
I'm glad he turned to God for help when it really mattered. Maybe he had paid attention when his father had screwed that up. If so, nice to see people learning from other's mistakes.
I think I appreciated seeing that he was like a normal person in that he made some good & some bad choices, but seemed to learn from them & be teachable. It's encouraging for me to see that in a leader. I don't like the show of having it all together/saving face (pride), unwilling to admit they are wrong.
Not sure what to make of the prophet fiasco in 18. Obviously there were the puppet prophets & only 1 true one, but why did the true one go along with the others at first & yet Ahab saw something in his actions that made Ahab press him for the truth? Just a little lost in translation I guess. Hard to tell actions/facial expressions when reading a story.
I'm reminded of Jonah, praising God for deliverance when he was still in the belly of the fish. J has his choir sing praises before the battle is even fought. But it was as the praises rang out that God fought for his children. Interesting....very interesting.
Yeah! Good story this morning. 16:9 "The eyes of the Lord search the whole earth in order to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him." Don't pass that by lightly -- he's on the lookout, and wouldn't it be amazing if my life brought him a smile? If his eyes stopped on me?? I know I have a lot of growing to do, but sometimes I have trouble transitioning from God loves US to God loves ME! That He sees me as an individual; so I think that makes it easier to figure I can get lost in the masses and my petty choices won't make much difference - - but He DOES see ME and YOU! and He is wanting to be my Friend and my God.
16:12 -- God wants us to turn to him in our battles, but also our illnesses.
I appreciated the extent J went to trying to turn his people to God: sending officials and priests out to teach the people - - I'm guessing many didn't read, so he proactively sent the word out to them.
My version, Chris says that Micaiah replied "sarcastically" so I'm thinking it was an easy read for the king. Really tho, Micaiah couldn't win in this one: he could go along with the others - or he could speak the truth, but it got him in jail anyway. I wonder if they pulled him out once Ahab had died. Anyway -- curious why J. even asked to hear from the prophet if he didn't follow the counsel? I get the picture that J was younger and intimidated by Ahab.
OTHERWISE -- why would anyone go along with the plan to dress up like the target while the real target disguised himself (18:28-29) That's just plain dumb. I'm glad God honored J, even in his stupidity -- and it sounds like he listened humbly when Jehu confronted him.
Even in the end of his life he went out to encourage (19:4) Encouragement is so important -- we simply have a bent toward discouragement, so to have a leader that "goes out" of there way to encourage is an amazing gift.
So J. was terrified, what a beautiful picture of what to do when you are filled with fear - - "bet the Lord for guidance"
Look again at his prayer. As with all the OT prayers, we can learn that filling your mind with God's love and faithfulness at the beginning of a prayer shrinks your problem.
I love the honesty of the prayer too: 20:12 "We do not know what to do, but we are looking to you for help." and the response in 15 "Do not b afraid! Don't be discouraged by this mighty army, for the battle is not yours, but God's!" That's a text I can sink my teeth into -- one that I can think of a thousand ways to apply, IF I'm willing to surrender the battle. He goes on "you will not even need to fight, take your positions; then stand still and watch the Lord's victory!
Their response? Worship and Praise! There is something amazing about a grateful heart. Singing! We don't do enough of it!!
Seems pretty important not to join up with wicked people -- you'd think J would have learned that with the Ahab lesson -- too bad it happened again with Ahaziah -- but there is more to be inspired by J's life then his blunders. I'm glad glad glad he gives us a view of courage and devotion. And I'm glad we have this picture of God, helping us even when we blunder.
I was totally uninspired by my reading today and then I went back and read both your comments. Somehow, I read Deut.1-3. Wrong week, wrong day. Neighbors kept me up every hour on the hour last nite. My brain is not functioning without sleep.
That's a bummer Sher! I hope later today you can read it! J is SO inspiring to hang on when things look hopeless!
I'll be in the office today if you want to stop by and get the last 2 studies -- or I can bring them over after work; just let me know! (send me an email to my home computer -- as I check that from work:) Linda
Hope you got some sleep last night Sherrie. I'd get some ear plugs!
I'm not sure where to start or what to say for Ps 119 since it's so long. So much good stuff in there. I just started looking for themes as it was easier.
The main one I saw was how the Word was so vital to every part of life. Reminds me of 2 Tim 3:16 where Paul says the same thing...in 1 verse :) Guess that's the difference between the poet (melancholy - descriptively wordy) & the leader (choleric - to the point). Both have their place & time & give deep thoughts/conversations.
I like how in MSG several times its says how the revelation of God makes him dance with joy. So much more to say on that & what I over heard this weekend & what I've personally experienced but too much for me to type.
Another theme was the desire of David to follow steadfastly on the path God had laid out for Him. Seeking God's counsel on everything & not just listening, but dedicating his heart to actually obey & do it. This decision actually encouraged him when troubles came & people derided him or made fun of his course of action. He was on the Rock & nothing could move him.
I'll stop now, but I like how it ended in MSG. After all was said & it seems like David was 100% going to seek & obey God (kinda like Israel said at Sinai - "...all that the Lord as said we will do..."); the Word also has shown him how futile man is all by himself & how much he constantly needs God to help Him. So he ends with "and should I wander off like a lost sheep—seek me! I'll recognize the sound of your voice." Really appreciate the reminder that I am human & dependent upon my Shepherd to guide me with His voice, staff & even rod when needed.
Yeah - I agree Chris -- the thread that runs through this whole chapter is the invaluable wisdom and joy that comes from following God's instruction.
119:1 JOYFUL! are the people of integrity (and the people that have people with integrity as friends) and JOYFUL are the people who follow the instructions of the Lord. I don't know anyone who is not seeking and hoping for JOY!
(8) Don't give up on me! That's my prayer to God too! I know from His perspective He doesn't give up, but from my perspective -- why wouldn't He? when I so often mess up! He is an amazing God of unfailing love and unending patience.
(26,27) "encourage me by your word" (I've experienced that many times) "and keep me from lying to myself" -- it's so easy for me to talk myself into what I think is the right course. I need to keep going back to the word and follow it with unswerving dedication.
So many great lines: (34) I put them into practice with all my heart -- not just the parts that are convenient or accepted by everyone else -- but all of it.
(36) Give me eagerness for your laws rather than a love for money - - interesting that he paired these 2. Often it's in pursuit of "things" or "pleasures" that we loose that pursuit of "God's Word" and I love the word eagerness -- not a drudgery!
There was definitely someone being incredibly arrogant that was taunting him and smearing him with lies (or maybe these words were written as an encouragement for Jesus in later years -- and us in later later years) And -- the cure is to keep focused on God and His word and direction.
(75) You disciplined me because I needed it, now let your unfailing love comfort me. Brought up a picture of my childhood; believe me, I needed lots of discipline -- but the discipline was always followed with comfort; really sweet picture for me.
Amy Grant and Michael W Smith brought to life the words in vs 105.
111 Your laws are a TREASURE! they are my HEART'S DELIGHT!
133 Guide my steps by our word! We've got to be intentional about knowing, then, what it says!
I love how David lives in the presence of God: 147-8 "I rise early, before the sun is up; I cry out for help and put my hope in your words. I stay awake through the night, thinking about your promise.
Prov 29:15 is what I like about being disciplined by God. It brings wisdom. I know that is our goal as earthly leaders, parents, teachers, etc, but it doesn't always happen.
29:8 "A gang of cynics can upset a whole city..." Just like a complainer/nitpicker/judgmental person can get a whole group of people up in arms over a petty issue. Like you said Linda, we are bent toward the negative for sure!
29:22 says something similar but this time it's angry or intemperate people who stir up discord or trouble. Hmmm, seems like it always has to do with self. Jesus always thought of others. Quite the contrast to me.
29:25 "The fear of human opinion disables; trusting in God protects you from that." Really like this verse & it's so true. Fear keeps us back from the life God wants us to live, the life He created us to live. We are such scaredy cats!
OK -- and Sher, you bust in too! Lots to think about!
I thought a theme running through 29 is to control your emotions. You see it in 11 and 22 with anger; you see it in 20 with talking, and you see it in 25 with fear.
I really appreciated 25, as I've experienced holding back on being who I am, because of fear of what people will think or have said. I love the picture of being "under his wings" a safe place -- and it frees us to be who we are. As soon as we look around to people for our value, we'll be limited. But we can trust God to give us what we need, when we need it!
I appreciated 30:8; the 2 things that Agur hoped for: a life of integrity, and just enough money. I liked that he said not too much, not too little. And that fits really well with the financial peace concept of being in control of your money so you actually KNOW how much that right amount is:)
Agur had a lot of 3 and 4 illustrations -- gotta be some kind of poetry. the 3/4 illustration in 18 & 19 and 22 & 23 got me thinking -- looking for the relationships between the ideas (the one about never satisfied and smart animals was pretty easy to see)
OK how do you connect an eagle, snake, ship, and how a man loves a woman? I think it has from moving from point A to point B. The first 3 all have to do with arriving; and the relationship that happens between 2 people is also a journey, starting out as a friendship and moving to faithful love. That is often very confusing -- maybe Agur was hoping a friendship would move to love in his life!
The second one 22 & 23 I believe has to do with an unqualified person being put in a position of power. Certainly that can cause the earth to tremble.
verse 33 stirring up anger causes quarrels -- this takes us back to 29:8. How true it is, like you said Chris -- we see it all the time, one complainer/nitpicker/judgmental person can bring a whole group down. Really important to choose our friends wisely; they can either take us up, or pull us down. Why does it seem easier to complain than to rejoice?? Today -- I want to be on the lookout for my blessings:)
Proverbs 29:18---One of the most important verses in the Bible. According to my beliefs, I must continually have revelation or vision from God about what I'm doing and where I'm going in my life, or I could end up dead. I must continually take inventory of my life and make sure it lines up with God's revelation to me.
I thought chapter 30 read like someone rambling on with his thoughts. Can I say that?
Sherrie I thought 30 was a bit odd too & then I thought maybe it was some actual form of poetry & since I don't care for poetry (usually just the rhyming stuff) I don't really appreciate it. But thanks Linda for pulling some stuff out of it.
Now why is it that on the days I have the most to do, it's the longest reading? So I had to pray about my attitude before I even started this morning. And then of course when I relaxed I was blessed. Why does family visiting always unsettle us...or is it just me? Do you get that way when your sister visits Linda?
Anyway I thought Micah had a lot of similarities to the world condition & especially the US today. A lot of warnings. But I especially liked the way MSG put some things in 4
4:9-12 talks about how Israel is gonna find in Babylon, in captivity, what it lost in Jerusalem. Had to laugh, as I can really identify with this. So many times God has taught me through trial what I couldn't get thru my thick head (pride) when things were going well. And people made fun of Israel, but as it says, they had no idea what God was doing, purifying His people, separating the chaff & wheat. That is what trials do. Shows who really is dedicated or abandoned to God vs those who are just in it because it's popular or they maybe friends with people, etc.
Just really enjoyed those verses in MSG.
There was a verse in there too but I can't find it now where it said it was important to rehearse our salvation stories (MSG). The times when God delivered us. Really liked that. Because even if I just talk to God & do it instead of people I am filled with gratitude & it gives me courage that He will come thru for me again.
Course 6:8 is always a classic one. I like how Casting Crowns incorporated it into their new song Courageous.
7 has the firm decision to stick with God & wait for Him to act v7. And also the humility to acknowledge the sin & accept the current consequences because I deserve it, God's discipline. BUT He will redeem me & turn it all out for good...I just need to be patient & wait. So make fun of me all you want, kick me when I'm down...but I'm trusting & waiting on God. And when He does...it'll be heaven! :D
Whew! that last paragraph is SO great from the message! kick me when I'm down -- I'm trusting & waiting on God -- powerful! powerful! Now -- can I put that into practice.
I was not sure (and I'm not sure anyone is sure) if Micah is a prophecy for Israel, for the end times, or (as I hadn't thought about, but you brought out beautifully Chris) for me personally. So I figured it's probably all 3. So many times Paul or Peter will take an OT text that I think is literal and apply it to the present situation -- and I think so many situations and attitudes repeat themselves!
Basically again, God is saying that HIS people will be watching out for the underdog. He's ticked off because the leaders of the day are taking advantage of others -- laying awake trying to figure out how to get ahead by stepping on someone else.
I liked the first part of 3 where it talked about hating good and loving evil -- eating people's flesh and stripping off their skin (taking advantage of their weakness) and THEN (4) you beg the Lord for help in times of trouble -- Do you really expect Him to answer??
What God wants is the Micah 6:8 follower. That's really what He cares about -- how we treat the people around us. It's what the last 6 of the big 10 talk about. O! and by the way, that happens by honoring the first 4 of the big 10!!
I love 4:1,2 -- God's plan.
and I soaked in 7:14 to the end. The strong finish - what an appeal!! Where is another God like you, who pardons the guilt of the remnant, overlooking the sins of His special people? . . . You delight in showing unfailing love . . . You will trample MY sins under your feet and throw them into the depths of the ocean (thank you so so much, Lord!) You will show ME your faithfulness and unfailing love (it says Us in all those Me places -- but I was personalizing it for me week!!)
Enjoy your weekend ladies! Hey Sher -- can you join us for at least the first part of the Worship Service this weekend? I'm doing the music and Chris is doing the sound -- so if you're there, we can be a trio of worshipers!! Would love to have you!!
Thank you so much for your invitation. What a kind gesture--- Tallon has a soccer game at noon tomorrow (his games are usually at 10am) so I could possibly sneak in for a little. Let me see how I'm feeling tomorrow. Hugs---
What a time to be a believer in Christ! Acts 5 shows that it was a prosperous time of sorts. People were being converted daily (shows Jesus was a patient, faithful seed planter too). Ananias & Sapphira show that it was a popular thing to belong to the growing group of Christians, but their heart wasn't converted. They just wanted to be associated with them.
I know so many people who do this, put on a pretense, a show. It's usually with $$ though. They buy all the toys & try to hang with the people they think are rich (who knows if they really are or if it's a show too), but they are in debt way over their head & it comes back to bite them. The people they hang with don't like them anyway. I've personally watched this happen & you just wonder why they go thru all the stress of the show.
Why do we do it as Christians or pretend Christians? It seems like it would be stressful too.
Really like the humor of the apostles getting broken out of jail by an angel & then I can imagine the pompous show of importance in the court room but the prisoners aren't there. Would have loved to been a fly on the wall then!
I thought it was interesting that they never asked (or at least it isn't recorded) HOW they got out. So they knew they were up against God but they persisted anyway? How stupid can we be as humans? Pretty stubborn & stupid as Balaam, the Jewish leaders show. Unfortunately, I have followed this same course at times. :(
Gamaliel shows that God will have people speak up when His plan calls for them to so that what He wants to accomplish happens. No one can change God's purpose for His people here on earth. This has been & will be repeated throughout the ages until heaven. It will so much fun to watch history when we're in heaven & see it unfold from heaven's eyes.
The church was so prosperous here as it began that satan had to try different ways to try & stop it. He sent unconverted people into it, jailed, threatened via government, beat & killed believers thru, etc. This was allowed by God to test His people & sort out the riffraff. Today it seems we judge that if things are all going well, then God is present & blessing. But that's not what I see happening here. We would probably say that the apostles didn't have a relationship with Jesus, weren't baptized with the HS, etc because of all the trials they were going thru & all the types of people that were trying to associate themselves with them. Seems we should leave the judging to God because as we read in Micah yesterday, we don't know what God is doing thru the trials that are happening in people or churches or individual lives. It may just be the furnace that God is purifying them in so He can use them for greater things.
Finally, just really like the visual of Stephen's face when they were trying to get him in jail. They were trying to get a reaction & they got one...but they got one of surrender to God, not self justification & defensiveness. Great lesson for me.
5:9 How could the two of you even think of conspiring to test the Spirit? Lying to God -- how does that work, since he knows our hearts, watches our actions, understands our minds and temptations -- but yet, we all have our forms of not being honest with ourselves and God. I don't know why we (I) think I can hide something from Him! He must just shake his head.
Yeah Chris, the tension had to have been TENSE in that pompous meeting -- I would have liked fly grandstand seats with you!! OK -- how are these guys going to save face now? Especially when the messenger busts into the room proclaiming that the apostles are back in the temple!
Everyone is pretty in awe and afraid of these fishermen turned preachers!
The leader's statement in 5:28 is amazing after the cheer went up "His blood be upon us and our children" Matt 27:25 now they come up with "and you want to make us responsible for his death?
Peter doesn't hold back "you killed him by hanging him on a cross" and then the clincher; Then God put him in the place of honor. You'd think the leaders would pause to think here, but I believe pride overruled their fear and sense (this happens to me, so I recognize it)
Gamaliel -- he was Saul/Paul's teacher, so I'm guessing Saul was in the group of leaders; watching and listening -- I wonder if after Saul's conversion he had some long discussions with Gamaliel -- it'd be nice to know. It sounds like Gamaliel had a very wise discerning heart.
(Sigh) a revival and then grumbling (6:1) why does it have to be that way?
Here's the deal -- God gives us wisdom far superior than wisdom we could come up with on our own (6:10) I believe He will give each of us wisdom if we ask.
Hebrews 8:10--I will write my laws into their minds and hearts...so that they will obey them.
ReplyDeleteLinda---I think this is the answer to your question of whether to help out a homeless person on the street corner. The Lord speaks to us --(I don't know what you guys believe--) and his sheep (not lambs) hear His voice. So all you have to do is obey the voice of the Lord concerning each individual situation you come upon. Sometimes, the Lord may tell you to help someone out and other times He may tell you to pass them by. It just comes naturally. ( But maybe this is only natural to those who are Baptizsed and filled by the Holy Spirit---and that's another whole issue which I wont get into here)
Hebrews 9:21-22--everything was cleansed by sprinkling it with blood--the tent, the instruments---everything. That is why those who walk in the power of the Holy Spirit use annointing oils to cleanse everything. (Homes, pets, computers, boundary lines, illnesses, children etc. etc.)
Hebrews 10:18-20
So now dear sisters, we can walk right into the HOLY of HOLIES where God is. And Psalm 100:4 will take us there. We get to enter into the HOLY presence of God. We need to soak in His presence. The Lord has been calling me into soaking worship---something I've been neglecting.
Hebrews 10:39---The just shall live by faith----not by what they can see, smell, taste, hear or feel. And next week in Hebrews 11 we get to feast on faith. Our Bibles ought to fall open automatically at Hebrews 11 if we're living by faith.
Yes, Sherrie, I agree with you, God does speak to us & let us know who to help & who to pass by. I know I have been baptized by the HS & have heard His voice on many occasions. Another whole topic is whether we choose to obey it or be like Jonah.
ReplyDeleteAs I read Hebrews I thought, why did God give them an inferior plan in the first place? But for those hearts who were open, it made them look for the Messiah to come that would put an end or as Paul puts it "abolish in His flesh the...law of commandments contained in ordinances, so as to create in Himself one new man..." Eph 2:15
Heb 8:13 - "By coming up with a new plan, a new covenant between God and his people, God put the old plan on the shelf. And there it stays, gathering dust." So that's why we (Christians) don't sacrifice anymore. It's now a inner heart work, done on the inside first & radiates outward. This is brought on by the sacrifice of our hearts - not animals.
10:24,25 "Let's see how inventive we can be in encouraging love and helping out, not avoiding worshiping together as some do but spurring each other on, especially as we see the big Day approaching." Really like how the MSG puts this. How inventive can we be to encourage each other in Christ? Might mean, sometimes we disagree if it sends us back to the Word (not people's books) to find out what we believe, then that's a good thing.
10:38,39 - the call to remember our first love, remember when we gave our hearts to Christ & we were tender-hearted yet bold to speak for Christ. It was born out of gratitude & we need to call that to mind again & again so we remember why we're here & what we're walking toward.
Yes, Chris---I'm aware that you listen to the voice of the Lord.
ReplyDeleteNumbers 33:3-5---Here I'm reading about how God's people were leaving Egypt as the Egyptians were burying their eldest sons, killed by the Lord. The Lords wrath was poured out on the Egyptians. And I turn on the news today and I see 23 Christians have just been killed by the Egyptian military who are in control of Egypt now that MuBarek is gone. Amazing! Egypt was important to God's purposes in Biblical times and Egypt is important to His purposes now.
Hebrews 34:3-11 I love how God defines the boundaries for His people.
Hebrews 35:30---All murderers must be executed but only is there is more than one witness. I wonder how many innocent people are in US prisons because this law was not followed. vs.33--Kill the murderers---then the land will not be considered polluted.
When I was a realtor back in the 80's and 90's---we used to have to disclose to the buyer that a murder had been committed, if we sold a home in which a murder had taken place. Now you wouldn't find me purchasing a place where that happened, but it never bothered any of the buyers I worked with. I was always amazed at that.
2 days in one for me! I didn't have a chance yesterday; so I'll start with Numbers and work back to Hebrews (loved Heb this morning!!!)
ReplyDeleteNumbers: I'm glad Aaron died in mid-summer; just nicer to have the sun shining -- and he was 123 (thinking to the cities of refuge and you couldn't leave until the high priest died -- might be quite a wait!)
Capital punishment big in the Bible -- but God is fair -- 2 witnesses. I appreciate it, and if we were more intentional today, we'd probably have a safer planet. But - did you notice that the avenger was the relative of the slain? There's something in that - not sure what. Today we would not allow the relatives to take matters in their own hands -- and Sher -- I don't think I'd buy a house where a murder had happened - it'd give me the creeps!
Those daughters of Z sure stirred things up!! I wonder if they fell in love with someone from another tribe if they'd be able to turn the land back in for love?
OK - on to Hebrews!I have so much of this reading circled and underlined! But -- I'll stick with a few points that popped out.
First of all & most exciting to me -- I've always heard that the old covenant was done away with and the new covenant is now in place - - I still am a firm believer that ceremonial laws pointing TO Christ were no longer necessary and those ended at the cross -- but I can't buy that the 10 commandments were done away with. OK - here's where I'm going with all this. I put the passage from Heb 8:10-12 together with Revelation 21:5.
The key word here is NEW! God says in Rev that He will make all things NEW when He comes again. I think that also means the NEW covenant. It says in 8:10 that the NEW covenant will be made with the people ON THAT DAY. and later it talks about "they won't need to teach their neighbors, nor will they need to teach their relatives . . . for everyone, from the least to the greatest, will know me already" The only time that will ever happen in earths history will be in heaven after evil is destroyed. Then His laws will be written on our hearts - evil will no longer have a hold on us. What do you guys think? He talks about it again in 10:16
I soaked in 9:28 for awhile -- what a great promise: He will come again, not to deal with our sins, but to bring salvation to all who are EAGERLY waiting for Him!! and I think God is EAGERLY waiting for us:) His kids:)
I always like the "here's what you do" aspect of the Bible writers. In 10 23ish: HOld tightly to hope, Think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works, Don't neglect meeting together for encouragement.
Tough times back then -- and I believe as long as we are on this earth, history can repeat itself (10:34) but amazing that "you acceptited it with joy!" Why? because you knew there were better things waiting for you that will last forever (I put an exclamation point by THAT!) Patient endurance is what you need now - - what calming words.
AND the strong finish: In just a little while, the coming ONE will come and not delay - and my righteous ones will live by faith. That was written 2000 years ago, we've got to be close now. and God's pathos comes out when he says in vs 38 "I will take no pleasure in anyone who turns away" in other words - it breaks His heart.
I've always kindof focused on Heb 11 -- the mighty faith chapter, but Heb 8-10 is A-MAZING!
Wow--good stuff, Linda.
ReplyDeleteThe Lord just performed my miracle of the day. I was at the grocery store to buy food for my dog, Ry. When the total came up on the cash register, I realized I had calculated wrong and didn't have enough money. The cashier helped pay for my dog food! Amazing!
Really good thoughts on the new covenant & heaven Linda!
ReplyDeleteSherrie, that was really nice of the clerk to help you out. Glad God put that on her heart to do.
A bit better reading today for me. Glad you 2 are getting something out of Mondays. Just makes me thankful I wasn't alive back then.
I like Jehoshaphat better than his father. Seems like Asa lost interest in God there near the end. I can see thru J's decisions that he didn't have a lot of good counsel around him. Maybe he was just immature, but why did he team up with Ahab? I wonder if he thought he could "witness" to him like we often think when we enter into friendships/romances with blatant non-believers.
I'm glad he turned to God for help when it really mattered. Maybe he had paid attention when his father had screwed that up. If so, nice to see people learning from other's mistakes.
I think I appreciated seeing that he was like a normal person in that he made some good & some bad choices, but seemed to learn from them & be teachable. It's encouraging for me to see that in a leader. I don't like the show of having it all together/saving face (pride), unwilling to admit they are wrong.
Not sure what to make of the prophet fiasco in 18. Obviously there were the puppet prophets & only 1 true one, but why did the true one go along with the others at first & yet Ahab saw something in his actions that made Ahab press him for the truth? Just a little lost in translation I guess. Hard to tell actions/facial expressions when reading a story.
I'm reminded of Jonah, praising God for deliverance when he was still in the belly of the fish. J has his choir sing praises before the battle is even fought. But it was as the praises rang out that God fought for his children. Interesting....very interesting.
Yeah! Good story this morning. 16:9 "The eyes of the Lord search the whole earth in order to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him." Don't pass that by lightly -- he's on the lookout, and wouldn't it be amazing if my life brought him a smile? If his eyes stopped on me?? I know I have a lot of growing to do, but sometimes I have trouble transitioning from God loves US to God loves ME! That He sees me as an individual; so I think that makes it easier to figure I can get lost in the masses and my petty choices won't make much difference - - but He DOES see ME and YOU! and He is wanting to be my Friend and my God.
ReplyDelete16:12 -- God wants us to turn to him in our battles, but also our illnesses.
I appreciated the extent J went to trying to turn his people to God: sending officials and priests out to teach the people - - I'm guessing many didn't read, so he proactively sent the word out to them.
My version, Chris says that Micaiah replied "sarcastically" so I'm thinking it was an easy read for the king. Really tho, Micaiah couldn't win in this one: he could go along with the others - or he could speak the truth, but it got him in jail anyway. I wonder if they pulled him out once Ahab had died. Anyway -- curious why J. even asked to hear from the prophet if he didn't follow the counsel? I get the picture that J was younger and intimidated by Ahab.
OTHERWISE -- why would anyone go along with the plan to dress up like the target while the real target disguised himself (18:28-29) That's just plain dumb. I'm glad God honored J, even in his stupidity -- and it sounds like he listened humbly when Jehu confronted him.
Even in the end of his life he went out to encourage (19:4) Encouragement is so important -- we simply have a bent toward discouragement, so to have a leader that "goes out" of there way to encourage is an amazing gift.
So J. was terrified, what a beautiful picture of what to do when you are filled with fear - - "bet the Lord for guidance"
Look again at his prayer. As with all the OT prayers, we can learn that filling your mind with God's love and faithfulness at the beginning of a prayer shrinks your problem.
I love the honesty of the prayer too: 20:12 "We do not know what to do, but we are looking to you for help." and the response in 15 "Do not b afraid! Don't be discouraged by this mighty army, for the battle is not yours, but God's!" That's a text I can sink my teeth into -- one that I can think of a thousand ways to apply, IF I'm willing to surrender the battle. He goes on "you will not even need to fight, take your positions; then stand still and watch the Lord's victory!
Their response? Worship and Praise! There is something amazing about a grateful heart. Singing! We don't do enough of it!!
Seems pretty important not to join up with wicked people -- you'd think J would have learned that with the Ahab lesson -- too bad it happened again with Ahaziah -- but there is more to be inspired by J's life then his blunders. I'm glad glad glad he gives us a view of courage and devotion. And I'm glad we have this picture of God, helping us even when we blunder.
I was totally uninspired by my reading today and then I went back and read both your comments. Somehow, I read Deut.1-3. Wrong week, wrong day. Neighbors kept me up every hour on the hour last nite. My brain is not functioning without sleep.
ReplyDeleteThat's a bummer Sher! I hope later today you can read it! J is SO inspiring to hang on when things look hopeless!
ReplyDeleteI'll be in the office today if you want to stop by and get the last 2 studies -- or I can bring them over after work; just let me know! (send me an email to my home computer -- as I check that from work:) Linda
Hope you got some sleep last night Sherrie. I'd get some ear plugs!
ReplyDeleteI'm not sure where to start or what to say for Ps 119 since it's so long. So much good stuff in there. I just started looking for themes as it was easier.
The main one I saw was how the Word was so vital to every part of life. Reminds me of 2 Tim 3:16 where Paul says the same thing...in 1 verse :)
Guess that's the difference between the poet (melancholy - descriptively wordy) & the leader (choleric - to the point). Both have their place & time & give deep thoughts/conversations.
I like how in MSG several times its says how the revelation of God makes him dance with joy. So much more to say on that & what I over heard this weekend & what I've personally experienced but too much for me to type.
Another theme was the desire of David to follow steadfastly on the path God had laid out for Him. Seeking God's counsel on everything & not just listening, but dedicating his heart to actually obey & do it. This decision actually encouraged him when troubles came & people derided him or made fun of his course of action. He was on the Rock & nothing could move him.
I'll stop now, but I like how it ended in MSG. After all was said & it seems like David was 100% going to seek & obey God (kinda like Israel said at Sinai - "...all that the Lord as said we will do..."); the Word also has shown him how futile man is all by himself & how much he constantly needs God to help Him. So he ends with "and should I wander off like a lost sheep—seek me! I'll recognize the sound of your voice."
Really appreciate the reminder that I am human & dependent upon my Shepherd to guide me with His voice, staff & even rod when needed.
Yeah - I agree Chris -- the thread that runs through this whole chapter is the invaluable wisdom and joy that comes from following God's instruction.
ReplyDelete119:1 JOYFUL! are the people of integrity (and the people that have people with integrity as friends) and JOYFUL are the people who follow the instructions of the Lord. I don't know anyone who is not seeking and hoping for JOY!
(8) Don't give up on me! That's my prayer to God too! I know from His perspective He doesn't give up, but from my perspective -- why wouldn't He? when I so often mess up! He is an amazing God of unfailing love and unending patience.
(26,27) "encourage me by your word" (I've experienced that many times) "and keep me from lying to myself" -- it's so easy for me to talk myself into what I think is the right course. I need to keep going back to the word and follow it with unswerving dedication.
So many great lines: (34) I put them into practice with all my heart -- not just the parts that are convenient or accepted by everyone else -- but all of it.
(36) Give me eagerness for your laws rather than a love for money - - interesting that he paired these 2. Often it's in pursuit of "things" or "pleasures" that we loose that pursuit of "God's Word" and I love the word eagerness -- not a drudgery!
There was definitely someone being incredibly arrogant that was taunting him and smearing him with lies (or maybe these words were written as an encouragement for Jesus in later years -- and us in later later years) And -- the cure is to keep focused on God and His word and direction.
(75) You disciplined me because I needed it, now let your unfailing love comfort me. Brought up a picture of my childhood; believe me, I needed lots of discipline -- but the discipline was always followed with comfort; really sweet picture for me.
Amy Grant and Michael W Smith brought to life the words in vs 105.
111 Your laws are a TREASURE! they are my HEART'S DELIGHT!
133 Guide my steps by our word! We've got to be intentional about knowing, then, what it says!
I love how David lives in the presence of God:
147-8 "I rise early, before the sun is up; I cry out for help and put my hope in your words. I stay awake through the night, thinking about your promise.
Brought out some nice thoughts Linda, thanks.
ReplyDeleteProv 29:15 is what I like about being disciplined by God. It brings wisdom. I know that is our goal as earthly leaders, parents, teachers, etc, but it doesn't always happen.
29:8 "A gang of cynics can upset a whole city..." Just like a complainer/nitpicker/judgmental person can get a whole group of people up in arms over a petty issue. Like you said Linda, we are bent toward the negative for sure!
29:22 says something similar but this time it's angry or intemperate people who stir up discord or trouble. Hmmm, seems like it always has to do with self. Jesus always thought of others. Quite the contrast to me.
29:25 "The fear of human opinion disables; trusting in God protects you from that." Really like this verse & it's so true. Fear keeps us back from the life God wants us to live, the life He created us to live. We are such scaredy cats!
Linda, I'll leave 30 to you. I gotta go. :D
OK -- and Sher, you bust in too! Lots to think about!
ReplyDeleteI thought a theme running through 29 is to control your emotions. You see it in 11 and 22 with anger; you see it in 20 with talking, and you see it in 25 with fear.
I really appreciated 25, as I've experienced holding back on being who I am, because of fear of what people will think or have said. I love the picture of being "under his wings" a safe place -- and it frees us to be who we are. As soon as we look around to people for our value, we'll be limited. But we can trust God to give us what we need, when we need it!
I appreciated 30:8; the 2 things that Agur hoped for: a life of integrity, and just enough money. I liked that he said not too much, not too little. And that fits really well with the financial peace concept of being in control of your money so you actually KNOW how much that right amount is:)
Agur had a lot of 3 and 4 illustrations -- gotta be some kind of poetry. the 3/4 illustration in 18 & 19 and 22 & 23 got me thinking -- looking for the relationships between the ideas (the one about never satisfied and smart animals was pretty easy to see)
OK how do you connect an eagle, snake, ship, and how a man loves a woman? I think it has from moving from point A to point B. The first 3 all have to do with arriving; and the relationship that happens between 2 people is also a journey, starting out as a friendship and moving to faithful love. That is often very confusing -- maybe Agur was hoping a friendship would move to love in his life!
The second one 22 & 23 I believe has to do with an unqualified person being put in a position of power. Certainly that can cause the earth to tremble.
verse 33 stirring up anger causes quarrels -- this takes us back to 29:8. How true it is, like you said Chris -- we see it all the time, one complainer/nitpicker/judgmental person can bring a whole group down. Really important to choose our friends wisely; they can either take us up, or pull us down. Why does it seem easier to complain than to rejoice?? Today -- I want to be on the lookout for my blessings:)
Proverbs 29:18---One of the most important verses in the Bible. According to my beliefs, I must continually have revelation or vision from God about what I'm doing and where I'm going in my life, or I could end up dead. I must continually take inventory of my life and make sure it lines up with God's revelation to me.
ReplyDeleteI thought chapter 30 read like someone rambling on with his thoughts. Can I say that?
Hee hee! The beauty of the blog is that you can say anything you want:)
ReplyDeleteSherrie I thought 30 was a bit odd too & then I thought maybe it was some actual form of poetry & since I don't care for poetry (usually just the rhyming stuff) I don't really appreciate it. But thanks Linda for pulling some stuff out of it.
ReplyDeleteNow why is it that on the days I have the most to do, it's the longest reading? So I had to pray about my attitude before I even started this morning. And then of course when I relaxed I was blessed. Why does family visiting always unsettle us...or is it just me? Do you get that way when your sister visits Linda?
Anyway I thought Micah had a lot of similarities to the world condition & especially the US today. A lot of warnings. But I especially liked the way MSG put some things in 4
4:9-12 talks about how Israel is gonna find in Babylon, in captivity, what it lost in Jerusalem. Had to laugh, as I can really identify with this. So many times God has taught me through trial what I couldn't get thru my thick head (pride) when things were going well. And people made fun of Israel, but as it says, they had no idea what God was doing, purifying His people, separating the chaff & wheat. That is what trials do. Shows who really is dedicated or abandoned to God vs those who are just in it because it's popular or they maybe friends with people, etc.
Just really enjoyed those verses in MSG.
There was a verse in there too but I can't find it now where it said it was important to rehearse our salvation stories (MSG). The times when God delivered us. Really liked that. Because even if I just talk to God & do it instead of people I am filled with gratitude & it gives me courage that He will come thru for me again.
Course 6:8 is always a classic one. I like how Casting Crowns incorporated it into their new song Courageous.
7 has the firm decision to stick with God & wait for Him to act v7. And also the humility to acknowledge the sin & accept the current consequences because I deserve it, God's discipline. BUT He will redeem me & turn it all out for good...I just need to be patient & wait. So make fun of me all you want, kick me when I'm down...but I'm trusting & waiting on God. And when He does...it'll be heaven! :D
Whew! that last paragraph is SO great from the message! kick me when I'm down -- I'm trusting & waiting on God -- powerful! powerful! Now -- can I put that into practice.
ReplyDeleteI was not sure (and I'm not sure anyone is sure) if Micah is a prophecy for Israel, for the end times, or (as I hadn't thought about, but you brought out beautifully Chris) for me personally. So I figured it's probably all 3. So many times Paul or Peter will take an OT text that I think is literal and apply it to the present situation -- and I think so many situations and attitudes repeat themselves!
Basically again, God is saying that HIS people will be watching out for the underdog. He's ticked off because the leaders of the day are taking advantage of others -- laying awake trying to figure out how to get ahead by stepping on someone else.
I liked the first part of 3 where it talked about hating good and loving evil -- eating people's flesh and stripping off their skin (taking advantage of their weakness) and THEN (4) you beg the Lord for help in times of trouble -- Do you really expect Him to answer??
What God wants is the Micah 6:8 follower. That's really what He cares about -- how we treat the people around us. It's what the last 6 of the big 10 talk about. O! and by the way, that happens by honoring the first 4 of the big 10!!
I love 4:1,2 -- God's plan.
and I soaked in 7:14 to the end. The strong finish - what an appeal!! Where is another God like you, who pardons the guilt of the remnant, overlooking the sins of His special people? . . . You delight in showing unfailing love . . . You will trample MY sins under your feet and throw them into the depths of the ocean (thank you so so much, Lord!) You will show ME your faithfulness and unfailing love (it says Us in all those Me places -- but I was personalizing it for me week!!)
Enjoy your weekend ladies! Hey Sher -- can you join us for at least the first part of the Worship Service this weekend? I'm doing the music and Chris is doing the sound -- so if you're there, we can be a trio of worshipers!! Would love to have you!!
Thank you so much for your invitation. What a kind gesture---
ReplyDeleteTallon has a soccer game at noon tomorrow (his games are usually at 10am) so I could possibly sneak in for a little. Let me see how I'm feeling tomorrow.
Hugs---
What a time to be a believer in Christ! Acts 5 shows that it was a prosperous time of sorts. People were being converted daily (shows Jesus was a patient, faithful seed planter too). Ananias & Sapphira show that it was a popular thing to belong to the growing group of Christians, but their heart wasn't converted. They just wanted to be associated with them.
ReplyDeleteI know so many people who do this, put on a pretense, a show. It's usually with $$ though. They buy all the toys & try to hang with the people they think are rich (who knows if they really are or if it's a show too), but they are in debt way over their head & it comes back to bite them. The people they hang with don't like them anyway. I've personally watched this happen & you just wonder why they go thru all the stress of the show.
Why do we do it as Christians or pretend Christians? It seems like it would be stressful too.
Really like the humor of the apostles getting broken out of jail by an angel & then I can imagine the pompous show of importance in the court room but the prisoners aren't there. Would have loved to been a fly on the wall then!
I thought it was interesting that they never asked (or at least it isn't recorded) HOW they got out. So they knew they were up against God but they persisted anyway? How stupid can we be as humans? Pretty stubborn & stupid as Balaam, the Jewish leaders show. Unfortunately, I have followed this same course at times. :(
Gamaliel shows that God will have people speak up when His plan calls for them to so that what He wants to accomplish happens. No one can change God's purpose for His people here on earth. This has been & will be repeated throughout the ages until heaven. It will so much fun to watch history when we're in heaven & see it unfold from heaven's eyes.
The church was so prosperous here as it began that satan had to try different ways to try & stop it. He sent unconverted people into it, jailed, threatened via government, beat & killed believers thru, etc. This was allowed by God to test His people & sort out the riffraff. Today it seems we judge that if things are all going well, then God is present & blessing. But that's not what I see happening here. We would probably say that the apostles didn't have a relationship with Jesus, weren't baptized with the HS, etc because of all the trials they were going thru & all the types of people that were trying to associate themselves with them. Seems we should leave the judging to God because as we read in Micah yesterday, we don't know what God is doing thru the trials that are happening in people or churches or individual lives. It may just be the furnace that God is purifying them in so He can use them for greater things.
Finally, just really like the visual of Stephen's face when they were trying to get him in jail. They were trying to get a reaction & they got one...but they got one of surrender to God, not self justification & defensiveness. Great lesson for me.
5:9 How could the two of you even think of conspiring to test the Spirit? Lying to God -- how does that work, since he knows our hearts, watches our actions, understands our minds and temptations -- but yet, we all have our forms of not being honest with ourselves and God. I don't know why we (I) think I can hide something from Him! He must just shake his head.
ReplyDeleteYeah Chris, the tension had to have been TENSE in that pompous meeting -- I would have liked fly grandstand seats with you!! OK -- how are these guys going to save face now? Especially when the messenger busts into the room proclaiming that the apostles are back in the temple!
Everyone is pretty in awe and afraid of these fishermen turned preachers!
The leader's statement in 5:28 is amazing after the cheer went up "His blood be upon us and our children" Matt 27:25 now they come up with "and you want to make us responsible for his death?
Peter doesn't hold back "you killed him by hanging him on a cross" and then the clincher; Then God put him in the place of honor. You'd think the leaders would pause to think here, but I believe pride overruled their fear and sense (this happens to me, so I recognize it)
Gamaliel -- he was Saul/Paul's teacher, so I'm guessing Saul was in the group of leaders; watching and listening -- I wonder if after Saul's conversion he had some long discussions with Gamaliel -- it'd be nice to know. It sounds like Gamaliel had a very wise discerning heart.
(Sigh) a revival and then grumbling (6:1) why does it have to be that way?
Here's the deal -- God gives us wisdom far superior than wisdom we could come up with on our own (6:10) I believe He will give each of us wisdom if we ask.
Can you picture Stephen's face?