I like your comments about today's reading Linda, but you might have to copy/paste them into this week or Sherrie might think I'm seeing things! :0
I liked how MSG puts the beginning of 8. That the believers were "forced to become missionaries" because of the persecution. I can relate to that. Trials in my life are unwelcomed, but they force out my true character, Who my Hope & Strength is in.
In the Army, when I became a Christian & found the Sabbath to be valid still today, I refused to work on Sabbath & got in trouble for it. BUT it allowed me to tell a lot of people about the Sabbath as I had to repeat the Bible study over & over again to my superiors. :) And of course, God brought me out, none the worse for wear, but it was an intense time. Maybe a small taste of the near future.
I wonder if Phillip questioned God to give him more information instead of "at noon go out to this deserted road". I know I would have. I always like to know "why". I guess I've never outgrown that stage. I like to know "why" in every instance & God just doesn't tell me all the time. So frustrating, but then I'd probably follow it up with "I have a better idea...." or "but what about...." So He's a pretty smart parent with me.
Technically, today is still week 42, so I'll have to see what week she posts on! I figured that I might forget to put the new week's blog up since I posted last night!
James is sooooo gut honest. If you need wisdome ask our generous God. I do fine at asking, but I still find myself taking back my problems, mulling them over, trying to find a solution. soo James pinpoints my weaknes in vs 6 "wehn you ask HIm, be sure that your faith is in God ALONE (not yourself and your ability to figure out solutions), DO NOT WAVER (guilty)
(8) their loyalty is divided between God (trust in Him) and the world (trust in me) and they are unstable in everything they do. (sigh -- let GO Linda)
God honors the poor and humbles the rich -- he has a plan in mind for everyone.
endure testing and temptation - - hmmmm God will BLESS you! yes, I can see blessings from endurance - reminds me of Chris's 1/2 marathon and the amazing surge of power at the end - - after the months of endurance.
Quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to get angry (vs 19) Think of how amazing our world would be if everyone took this to heart (me too!)
I love the mirror illustration (vs 23-25) Back then, the mirrors were flat, polished bronze; so -- you could glance quickly and just get a glimpse - - or you could stare intently, spending time. Getting the true picture of what was really there -- making adjustments to yourself as the mirror pointed out flaws. What an amazing illustration. Take time to look intently into His word.
And that blasted tongue -- causes SO many problems: we see it in 1:26, but again highlighted in 3. It all comes back to being slow to speak, quick to listen, slow to become angry; anything opposite of those commands will fire up the tongue to do hurtful things.
2:10-11 appears to me to be talking about the 10 commandments. He's very specific here, so I think each commandment is important to Him. and why would he care? Because the first 4 show our respect for Him as our God, the last 6 show our respect for all of God's creation -- even the people we don't care for!
faith and good deeds (I like that better than faith and works!!) But I think the key is; faith is the kernel that produces the plant of good deeds. You don't start with the plant, you start with the kernel and the plant slowly grows over time - - it's not insta-plant, it matures.
3:15 pinpoints another kernel; self. It shows up in jealousy and selfishness and those are not God's wisdom, those are not the kernel of God's fruit. In fact -- those kernels are earthly, unspiritual, and demonic. I believe the power to cast out demons comes from God. So when (not if) when I experience any of these kernels, I need to cry out for His mercy and help. He is able to cast those demons away.
Love the wisdom from above. People that have this aura about them are people we all love to have near: peace loving, gentle at ALL times, willing to yield to others, full of mercy and good deeds, no favoritism, always sincere - - - ahhhhhhh, I look forward to being around people like that - - and I like the sincere part because, we all blunder and make mistakes -- but they admit it, that too is refreshing!
man, so much in here to comment on. You did a good job of highlighting some good points Linda. I think if we do this or should say "when" we do this again next year it'd be nice to try & get together once a month to verbally go over some of our favorites & share thoughts we're not able to type out. That's my 2 cents though, what do the rest of you think? And yes, I'm asking any of you that are just reading & not able to comment for your opinion too. :D
So it says I'm to count trials as a sheer gift...as it makes my faith life come out into the open & show it's true colors. Unfortunately, my colors tend to be the drab or whiny colors that people may want to avoid. If I focus on God & like you said & MSG says so nicely, God is the source of my strength & I'm not to try to solve the problems in my own feeble strength, but leave them with God & accept His Peace/Presence.
1:12 people who are "loyally in love with God" & stick it out in trials get a richer & fuller life.
1:19 "Lead with your ears, follow up with your tongue, and let anger straggle along in the rear." Nicely put!
2:10 We can't "specialize" in 1 or 2 commandments & yet break another one & think we're okay. Break one, you've broken them all. Pretty simple, no gray areas here.
2:21,22 faith/works are yoked partners. Can't separate them & it all is done in love, not forced obedience or my strong will. Love makes it easy. I need to learn so much more about this word.
3 is just a continual spiritual smack upside my head. My mouth gets me in so much trouble! My parents used to tape our mouths shut on occasion when they wanted peace n quiet. Sometimes, I wish God would do that to me after I've opened my mouth & deeply regretted it. He is so patient during the maturing process it's incredible!
Schazaaaaam! You gave me a great idea Chris! We'll talk more on Friday about the schazaaaam idea!
Taping the mouth shut is a bummer -- only because you KNOW how stinggy (how do you spell that?) it is when that tape is ripped off; either that or it's the slow slow slow method.
Cool! Can't wait to hear the idea. And as for the tape - at least it was masking tape not duct tape! LOL But we learned some tricks so it wasn't so painful when we got to take it off.
Ok, so as I read in Deut today it was like Moses knew that they would forget God & so he was pleading with them over & over again NOT to do it. I've been in situations similar & you try to find so many different ways to say the same thing just hoping something will click so they don't make the bad choice. But in the end, it is their choice.
1:7,8 talks about how our God is intimate with us & listens to us & what other nation has a God like that? Today a lot of people embrace Christianity, but do they realize how close God wants to be with them? I know I've been so blessed to be able to talk/listen to Him at every moment. I love how He makes me feel like I'm the only one on earth who's having a conversation with Him at that moment.
1:15-20 I hadn't thought about the importance of God not showing any form of Himself to Israel when He spoke to them from Sinai. But it makes sense - so they wouldn't try to replicate it & worship it. We always want something visible or tangible to worship or represent God. We want Him on our level. We need to be like Abraham & see the "One who is Invisible" thru faith eyes.
1:21,22 Seems like Moses does vent a bit here & let Israel know that they were the ones that provoked him to hit the rock instead of talk to it.
Rehearsing history, the history of God & I, what He's done for me, how He's delivered me time & time again; His guidance & protection, etc. All these things keep my heart grateful & loyal so that I won't want to wander to other gods. I'll just want to follow my Shepherd Who provides for all that I need.
I was thinking as I read thru the Commandments again how different a world it would be if everyone actually kept Sabbath. There would be less stress for sure. Even some people who think sincerely that Sunday is the day of rest are realizing the benefits of actually taking the whole 24 hr period to stop work & other normal daily routines & spend time with God & their families. I like the emphasis on the servants getting rest too. So that's why I don't like to shop or eat at restaurants unless there's some emergency unplanned trip. I know those people would still be working, but I don't want to add to their burden. It's so refreshing to have the Sabbath, can't imagine life without it. Can't wait to keep it in heaven with the One who created it!
I really appreciated your comments today Chris -- just made those ideas jump out at me when I read through. Maybe that's why we don't see God's form today -- people would recreate again; you see it in marketing all the time; all kinds of hero icons.
4:2 Do not add to or subtract from these commands - God makes things perfect the first time around; why do we always try to add our addendums and clauses to make it work for our needs?
4:9 reminded me of the song "We Will Remember" (which by the way we'll be singing in praise this weekend) Don't forget what you have seen, don't let these memories escape from your mind . . . and be sure to pass them on. So I'm passing this on: yesterday I had a tough day, some family concerns - - and God sent me 4 people of encouragement, 1 texter, 1 emailer, 1 personal visit, and 1 phone call (the last one I haven't heard from in a couple of years) I KNOW God arranged that for me on the day I needed it, and (as I still need it today) I've been reviewing His love and faithfulness from those personal touches - - He really cares.
Do you think Moses was bitter in vs 22? Probably not, as he offered to be wiped out and let the community live in another story.
4:28,31 gives such hope for friends/family (& myself too) that are far from God -- I need to be patient with the journey He has mapped out, it's just some times that journey is looooong.
It sounds like an awesome, terrifying experience -- the scene of the 10 commandments -- it must have been if grown men begged not to have it happen again -- I wonder if it was like Mt. St. Helens blasting off, something no one would want to experience again.
Sometimes I wish I could have a do over -- I would live so much of my life differently; especially taking 6:5-8 seriously; I know it's never to late to connect and share, but man -- I was so indifferent when I was younger.
Neat how God used almost all the communication ways to encourage you Linda. He's so thoughtful & caring!
I'm just dumbfounded when I read about Amaziah defeating the Edomites & then making their gods his own. It's like defeating a team in basketball & then asking them for their playbook so you can learn/run their plays which you successfully defended. Just DUMB! Any coach would be fired for that! And what a terrible way to die, being pushed off a cliff. Yuck, so much time to think before you actually die. Except yesterday I watched a helmet cam of a free jumper off a sky rise hotel & it was pretty fast...he even used a parachute but STILL!
I like the prophet's comments to Amaziah when he asked about all the silver he'd paid for the soldiers he was about to fire. "God's help is worth far more to you than that". Sometimes when I've made a bad choice I do end up paying thru the nose BUT seeing God come thru for me does give me way more in return. It enables me (hopefully) to trust Him with more in the future because I remember what He's already done for me. Makes me think of the rehearsing of His victories for us from yesterday's reading & yes Linda, the song "We will remember".
And then Amaziah was taken prisoner by Jehoash but how did that work as he still was king after J died. Puppet king?
Uzziah warns of pride, getting too big for his britches, as my grandma would say. Forerunner of Nebuchadnezzar.
Interesting how Israel treated their brothers after they captured them. That whole situation reminds me of the Civil War. Very sad affair. I like how the God intervened & they listened & returned the captives with clothes & food. Even treating their wounds. Man...that must have been hard to take for the captives. A real blow to pride on both sides I guess, but would have been harder for me if I'd been a captive.
Ahaz is just another hard head, refusing God. Makes me think of myself when I'm struggling to accomplish something & people offer to help but I refuse their help, saying no, "I'm fine" or "no, I got it" when it's so obvious I don't, DUH! That's why I'm being offered help! It's pride that most of the time keeps me from accepting. Sometimes, I really don't know that I need help though & I just need people to step in. Afterwards, hopefully I learn for the next time & either accept or ask for help. Don't know which it was for Ahaz, but seems like there was a lot of pride & not listening in his case. Warning, warning...:
O wow! Chris -- you commented on all the things I underlined:):) so here's my added ideas (most are the same ideas)
25:2 Amaziah did what was pleasing in the Lord's sight, but not wholeheartedly. How many times do I find myself in this spot. Doing the right thing, but only because I know it's right -- not because I want to do the right thing with my whole heart, at all costs.
Yeah! I loved that spot too 25:9,10. He was worried about his sunk costs in 9 -- and that's all they were, sunk costs. Leave them behind -- AND The Lord is able to give you much more than this! Notice it doesn't say he WILL give you, but He has the power to. If you are willing to live in His plan, you'll go with what He knows you need.
Those Israelites must have loved fighting! They got there money from Judah (vs10) were sent home, so they didn't even need to risk their lives -- but they were so bummed they raided, ransacked, and killed on their way back?? Makes me wonder if they were really going to fight for Judah in the first place? Maybe they were going to collect their pay, then turn on Judah in the middle of the war? (sounds like other kings had the same idea 28:20)
I marked the pushing off the cliff with an eeeeew! Why did they have to be so brutal? Torture just seems so unnecessary, no matter what war it is.
I loved the illustration Chris (the defeating sports team) or if they ask the coach from the defeated team to come be their coach) What was he thinking? He is so arrogant in 25:16 (not good)
Yeah - Obed-edom shows up again (vs 24) I picture him as a quiet, Godly man -- totally relying on where God puts him.
Uzziah -- 16 years old; 26:5 says it all -- you'd think kings would clue into this after awhile! I'd like to know what they did different to their walls to fortify them (vs 15)
Power to Pride -- seems to be the plight of us humans:(
All heaven is disturbed (28:9) I wonder if that was because they were so quick to bring home slaves after they had ALL heard the stories of slavery in Egypt. Its all about power and control.
I appreciated the story of compassion in 28:14-15. Chris, I don't get why you thought that would be hard for the captives? I'd think they'd be so grateful? Since the people were naked, I'm thinking part of the problem was the shame the Israelites were putting the Judeans through. I think God is horrified when we shame, bully, or torture others -- Since He is a God of love -- those attributes must be so repulsive to Him and -- no doubt -- all heaven is disturbed.
Am early again in commenting on Psalms 122. It begins with "I was glad when they said to me, Let us go to the house of the Lord!"
I must say this was a verse that I should have paid more attention to in my life---it would have saved me from a lot of pain and grief. In several of the different places that I lived, I wasn't always glad when I attended some churches. I found division, cliques, open sin and dead Christians who were just going through the motions---there wasn't a lot of joy. I'm sure that these things exist in any church, but some groups exhibit this behavior much more than others.
I like Psalm 123:2 where it talks about a slave girl watching her mistress for the slightest signal. That's how I want to be in my relationship with the Lord--always watching, waiting for the slightest signal from Him to lead me in the direction I should go or the thing He wants me to do.
Psalm 123:3-4--the Living Bible says "Have mercy on us, for we've had our fill of contempt from the rich and proud." Yesterday, I passed by someone I used to work with in the 1980's. We didn't acknowledge one another but it struck me because she's almost 10 yrs older than I am. Yesterday she looked like she was the same age as my 40 yr old daughter. She looked good, but you don't suddenly become much younger without a lot of money, surgery, and help. My first thought was wow---she must really spend a lot of time on herself to get those results. Then I thought wow---I wonder if her husband is cheating on her and she has to compete with a mistress. I know---I'm terrible.
Psalm 124:6--8 "Blessed be Jehovah who has not let our enemies devour us....Our help is in the name of the Lord." Amen! I praise the name of Jesus who defeated Satan at the cross!
Yeah Sherrie, I haven't always enjoyed going to church either. That started to change when I went to ANC in Wapato when I lived in Yakima. I think it was where I started to become the woman God created me to be instead of what people told me I should be. I don't think I've figured it all out, but I sure am enjoying life a LOT more since that journey started. And then I found the Journey Church LOL!
122 I see in a couple different ways. 1 being the Jerusalem of Bible times, it represented the epitomy of worship for the Jews. To make the trip to Jerusalem to worship was a big deal to them. Almost like the meccas that other religions take today. So for people to praise it & hold it up as THE place of worship....I see that here.
I also see it as something for us to look forward to - the New Jerusalem in heaven. Can't wait to see a real worship service!
And then I see it as modern times & especially v6-9 the plea for people to get along, being peace seeking, no fighting over trivial things, etc. Because if people see the church is divided over the carpet, then why would they want to be a part of a church who has lost their perspective & is looking at the floor rather than looking up at Jesus?
123 - the pleading & waiting for deliverance. I've experienced that in so many different ways.
124 - The relief when God comes in to intervene & then, on the side of deliverance, looking back & seeing how close we really were to death or giving in to discouragement.
I was just thinking of all the times God has delivered me from death or serious injury - at least the times I know about anyway. When reading about being in the water & almost drowning He reminded me that I almost drowned 2x when I was a kid. How sweet that first gulp of air was! I remember that panicky feeling of not being able to get to the top, no matter how much I tried to paddle up. People were all around the pool but no one seemed to notice that I was struggling with life or death. Finally a kid started yelling & pointing at me & I was yanked up.
There's a lot of parallels with that & how we maybe struggling with things inside & no one notices that we're drowning with situations, sins, discouragement, etc. Maybe we can't be the one that yanks someone up all the time, maybe sometimes we just bring it to someone else's attention - even inadvertently. But God never loses track of us. v6 - He didn't abandon us defenseless. Sometimes, only God can be the Deliverer & sometimes He uses people.
v7 love the picture of being free as a bird in flight. I'm such a different person that what I was 2 1/2 - 3 years ago. It's amazing how free I feel now & yet....I've so far to go. Nice to know that I have a constant Refuge, alert Defender & an extremely good Deliverer. Of course that makes me think of Mandisa's song My Deliverer. :D
Sher - I underlined the servants/slave girl watching the master/mistress -- it SO reminds me of my dog Toby. If I would only have the intense focus on God that Toby has on me. He NEVER lets me out of his sight - following where I go, sleeping under my bed at night - - it is a constant reminder to me of where my focus should be.
Really good illustration Chris of drowning, and that we may be used to point out a situation -- maybe that's the prayer warrior in us for friends/family that seem helpless to save themselves or make positive steps toward the abundant life.
I'd have never guessed that it was only 2.5-3 years ago that you were so different. Man, God is powerful, because he now uses you as such an encouragement for so many other people:) Cool beans!
Did you notice that at the beginning of 122, one person is inviting another person? They don't want to hoard the worship to themselves, they want to share in the worship experience. Sometimes I get way more out of a quiet one on one worship, but I also find amazing power and encouragement in worshiping and praising God with others. And I liked how (vs 4) they came to give thanks (not to gossip, compare, critisize or complain!!! It's all about reviewing His attributes and feeling filled with gratitude.
123:3 We have had our fill of . . . . I look forward to Heaven when we'll be done with what this world has to offer.
124:1 What if the Lord had not been on our side? Well -- we have plenty of Bible history (thank you Chronicles) to explain what really happens when we don't walk with God. - scarey stuff.
And I love the verse 122:8 For the sake of my family and friends, I will say, "May you have peace." My friends, I am hoping that this day will be filled with peace for you today (and me too) Keep your eyes on Him! He IS on your side.
Solomon sounds a tad depressed in today's reading. He's done it all & seen it all & realizes that no matter what he's accomplished, learned or discovered, we all die. He keeps saying what's the point? We don't extend our lives, smart/stupid, rich/poor, we all die. He must have thought at the height of his departure from God that he could change that because of who he was - wisest, richest king who ever lived. Now that his pride has taken a hit he's a bit depressed or has realized the folly of his ways.
Seems like he's also lived long enough to see how things cycle through. He keeps saying there's nothing new. What was before will happen again. Reminds me of clothing fads. Just keep the clothes & you'll be wearing them again in about 10-15 years. And designers think they've discovered something new & are geniuses. The only thing that changes is the price.
Near the end of 2 I wonder if he realizes that his sons will get all that he has acquired & they haven't earned it & that's bad (v2:20-22).
v23 aptly describes the people who have enough, but to them it never is so they are constantly stressed about getting more. Even their sleep is disturbed with this thought. What a terrible, stressful life.
I like how he ends it though. Do what God has placed before you & enjoy it. Take what God gives you & be grateful for it. This will help you enjoy it - a grateful heart. God has our lives; it's up to Him when we are born & when we die. It's all about His plan for us. We can fight Him all the time & be miserable or accept what He brings us & enjoy it with His Presence right beside us. The choice is ours.
Really well put in that last paragraph, Chris. Again the concept of gratefulness -- we seem to miss that in our culture. We even have a holiday designed to turn us back to gratitude! I wonder if I should add another line to the lines you gave me last night "I choose your presence" "I choose your peace" "I choose to be grateful"!!
1:18 doesn't really sound like the Proverbs that Solomon wrote - - the greater my wisdom, the greater my grief! very different look, must have been a different stage of his life. But - it does remind me of the statement "ignorance is bliss" and "what you don't know won't hurt you"
2:3 "While seeking wisdom, I clutched at foolishness - - we want it all, the plan and perks of wisdom; but yet, we don't want to be controlled by a plan or held responsible to wisdom.
2:10 a lot of "I" statements there. I think that is at the heart of a dis-satisfied life. It's all about "me" and I never arrive.
2:18 He's at the bottom: I came to hate all my hard work here on earth. and I gotta think, "What does Solomon mean by hard work? He's got servants that'll do whatever at the snap of his fingers??" Is his hard work all this thinking going on? Dealing with people on committees? It'd be interesting to know what he viewed as his hard work!
THEN (verse 24) OK -- here comes the twist. Up to this point it is all "I" "I" "I" THEN I realized that these pleasures are from the hand of God. . . God gives wisdom, knowledge, and JOY to those who please Him; those are gifts that last: wisdom, knowledge, JOY -- wealth comes and goes.
I couldn't put that one part into words but you did Linda. About all the "I"s leading to a dissatisfied life. Well put.
Hadn't thought about all the hard work he claimed to have done though. Hee hee. But for me, the hardest work I've ever done is administration. It's an all consuming, strength sapping, & sometimes, a thankless job. So he was an administrator & if that's what he's talking about, then I'll definitely give it to him.
Kindof neat to read the dialogue between Hab and God;
Hab saying - - what's going on? Everyone is fighting and evil;
God saying - - hang on Hab, I'm going to bring humility back when Babylon takes over.
Hab saying, "REALLY? would you really do that to US?" I'm going to climb the watch tower and see if what I really heard was what I really heard.
God says "it won't happen today -- it's a bit in the future, but it's important for these people to understand that nothing can save them, not wisdom, not wealth, not fortified walls - - I'm their only hope.
and with that - Hab busts into singing (in his mind, he has the orchestra in the background) I am filled with AWE by your amazing works . . .
Again I say -- those old testament prophets may not understand everything that is going on, or will happen; but they are determined to focus on the goodness, the mercy, the power of God:)
vs 16 I will wait quietly for the coming day when disaster will strike the people who invade us. (he knows the end -- even though there will be tough times between the present and the end)
vs 17 even though . . . even though . . . even though . . . yet I will rejoice in the Lord! I will be joyful in the God of my salvation. The Sovereign Lord is my strength.
Hmmmmmm -- there's a LOT that will happen between our present and the end of the world, maybe some application?
In the back of my Bible, years ago I wrote the words to a song--"Though the fig trees fail to blossom and no fruit be on the vine ---and the fields yield no food--I will praise Thee Lord Divine." I refer to these words over and over whenever I get down--- But I never realized that this song was actual scripture right out of Habakkuk 3:17-18.
In these 2 chapters the #3 stood out to me among other things. Saul had to wait 3 days for Ananias to come heal him from blindness. Cornelius had his vision at 3 pm & sent 3 men to get Peter. And Peter's vision with the sheet/animals happened 3 times because there were 3 men that were coming to get him. It was something I hadn't noticed as much before, except for the 3 men being represented by the sheet/animals 3 times.
As I read about Saul waiting 3 days, I know he had a lot to think about BUT when Jesus told him to go into the city & there he'd be told what to do....there's no time frame given. So I would have assumed that I'd be told right away....but it didn't happen. I've always thought of Saul as an impatient type but here it doesn't record any impatience on his part. I don't do well waiting on God but I need to do better since His timing is ALWAYS the best.
Nice of Barnabas to stand up for Saul. I can understand the disciples suspicions, I would have been too. What if it's a trick? Barnabas was an encourager though & there are times in all our lives when if it weren't for 1 person standing up for us or being our cheerleader, we would have thrown in the towel. There's a lot to be said for the gift of encouragement.
I've been noticing that when the Holy Spirit fell on people it was not always manifested by the speaking of tongues or languages, which makes sense as the gifts of the Spirit are several & tongues is the last one listed in 1 Cor 12. And 1Cor 12:4 says there are a varieties of gifts (the list is v8-10) but the same HS. So I don't get why people put such a weight on just 1 of them.
Unless...what I've also noticed is that when Gentiles (those considered inferior by Jews) received the HS then they spoke in tongues IN THE SAME WAY that the "superior" Jews did when it originally fell on them. I think God knew the inbred superiority complex that Jews had with towards any other nation & so when the HS fell on these people He did it in a way to let the disciples/Jews know that these sheep were in no way inferior to them & were to be treated the same. God is not prejudiced or biased. There are no levels in heaven for better saints as some churches teach.
Peter confirms this about God in 10:34-36 when he says that God plays no favorites "...It makes no difference who you are or where you're from—if you want God and are ready to do as he says, the door is open..." I'm so thankful that salvation is free to EVERYONE!
Great thoughts Chris -- yeah; I didn't notice the many times with 3 either; but I did think while reading the Jesus was in the tomb 3 days, and wondered if there was any connection to that -- Saul waiting quietly 3 days before the power of his testimony was used by God.
and an interesting thought about using the same gift for the Gentiles as the Jews to show the Jews that this was legit from God - - maybe!
As I was reading about the oof Paul -- I wondered if there was a logical progressio that many go through: 1) encounter vs 3: 2) humility vs 8: 3) seeking vs 11 4) answers vs 12
in verse 15 -- God doesn't pussy foot around with Annanias and his fear: GOOOOOO!!!! He's the one I want to use! Wow! To be chosen of God, and God was waiting for JUST the right time to put his mission in motion. Even Saul's passion to persecute later got everyone's attention. God even used that to show His power of transformation. And Saul became more and more powerful - - no one wanted to debate him, so they wanted to murder him (what happened to the 10 commandment idea?)
I love chapter 10 and the idea that God has a passion for ALL -- He wants to save ALL of us!! Yeah -- not just Christians; He's out for anyone that'll believe in HIM!
And it is quite interesting to me, the only requirement for baptism again in the story of Cornelius is belief in Jesus -- I can imagine though, that Cornelius and his family then studied the writing available to understand God's idea of an abundant life:)
GREAT points Sher -- I loved the correlation of Saul's blindness to his blindly following after his own religious ideas -- never ever thought of that before!
AND I also agree with you as to why Peter asked them to leave the room -- the unbelief. I think James has quite a bit to say about this in James 5:13-15.
But -- I don't think God was talking about Kosher and un-Kosher meat in Acts 10 based on Peter's interpretation in vs 28. so -- we differ on that translation of the meat-vision:)
I like your comments about today's reading Linda, but you might have to copy/paste them into this week or Sherrie might think I'm seeing things! :0
ReplyDeleteI liked how MSG puts the beginning of 8. That the believers were "forced to become missionaries" because of the persecution. I can relate to that. Trials in my life are unwelcomed, but they force out my true character, Who my Hope & Strength is in.
In the Army, when I became a Christian & found the Sabbath to be valid still today, I refused to work on Sabbath & got in trouble for it. BUT it allowed me to tell a lot of people about the Sabbath as I had to repeat the Bible study over & over again to my superiors. :) And of course, God brought me out, none the worse for wear, but it was an intense time. Maybe a small taste of the near future.
I wonder if Phillip questioned God to give him more information instead of "at noon go out to this deserted road". I know I would have. I always like to know "why". I guess I've never outgrown that stage. I like to know "why" in every instance & God just doesn't tell me all the time. So frustrating, but then I'd probably follow it up with "I have a better idea...." or "but what about...." So He's a pretty smart parent with me.
Technically, today is still week 42, so I'll have to see what week she posts on! I figured that I might forget to put the new week's blog up since I posted last night!
ReplyDeleteoh hee hee, you're right, I should move mine! Nice catch!
ReplyDeleteJames is sooooo gut honest. If you need wisdome ask our generous God. I do fine at asking, but I still find myself taking back my problems, mulling them over, trying to find a solution. soo James pinpoints my weaknes in vs 6 "wehn you ask HIm, be sure that your faith is in God ALONE (not yourself and your ability to figure out solutions), DO NOT WAVER (guilty)
ReplyDelete(8) their loyalty is divided between God (trust in Him) and the world (trust in me) and they are unstable in everything they do. (sigh -- let GO Linda)
God honors the poor and humbles the rich -- he has a plan in mind for everyone.
endure testing and temptation - - hmmmm God will BLESS you! yes, I can see blessings from endurance - reminds me of Chris's 1/2 marathon and the amazing surge of power at the end - - after the months of endurance.
Quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to get angry (vs 19) Think of how amazing our world would be if everyone took this to heart (me too!)
I love the mirror illustration (vs 23-25) Back then, the mirrors were flat, polished bronze; so -- you could glance quickly and just get a glimpse - - or you could stare intently, spending time. Getting the true picture of what was really there -- making adjustments to yourself as the mirror pointed out flaws. What an amazing illustration. Take time to look intently into His word.
And that blasted tongue -- causes SO many problems: we see it in 1:26, but again highlighted in 3. It all comes back to being slow to speak, quick to listen, slow to become angry; anything opposite of those commands will fire up the tongue to do hurtful things.
2:10-11 appears to me to be talking about the 10 commandments. He's very specific here, so I think each commandment is important to Him. and why would he care? Because the first 4 show our respect for Him as our God, the last 6 show our respect for all of God's creation -- even the people we don't care for!
faith and good deeds (I like that better than faith and works!!) But I think the key is; faith is the kernel that produces the plant of good deeds. You don't start with the plant, you start with the kernel and the plant slowly grows over time - - it's not insta-plant, it matures.
3:15 pinpoints another kernel; self. It shows up in jealousy and selfishness and those are not God's wisdom, those are not the kernel of God's fruit. In fact -- those kernels are earthly, unspiritual, and demonic. I believe the power to cast out demons comes from God. So when (not if) when I experience any of these kernels, I need to cry out for His mercy and help. He is able to cast those demons away.
Love the wisdom from above. People that have this aura about them are people we all love to have near: peace loving, gentle at ALL times, willing to yield to others, full of mercy and good deeds, no favoritism, always sincere - - - ahhhhhhh, I look forward to being around people like that - - and I like the sincere part because, we all blunder and make mistakes -- but they admit it, that too is refreshing!
man, so much in here to comment on. You did a good job of highlighting some good points Linda. I think if we do this or should say "when" we do this again next year it'd be nice to try & get together once a month to verbally go over some of our favorites & share thoughts we're not able to type out. That's my 2 cents though, what do the rest of you think? And yes, I'm asking any of you that are just reading & not able to comment for your opinion too. :D
ReplyDeleteSo it says I'm to count trials as a sheer gift...as it makes my faith life come out into the open & show it's true colors. Unfortunately, my colors tend to be the drab or whiny colors that people may want to avoid. If I focus on God & like you said & MSG says so nicely, God is the source of my strength & I'm not to try to solve the problems in my own feeble strength, but leave them with God & accept His Peace/Presence.
1:12 people who are "loyally in love with God" & stick it out in trials get a richer & fuller life.
1:19 "Lead with your ears, follow up with your tongue, and let anger straggle along in the rear." Nicely put!
2:10 We can't "specialize" in 1 or 2 commandments & yet break another one & think we're okay. Break one, you've broken them all. Pretty simple, no gray areas here.
2:21,22 faith/works are yoked partners. Can't separate them & it all is done in love, not forced obedience or my strong will. Love makes it easy. I need to learn so much more about this word.
3 is just a continual spiritual smack upside my head. My mouth gets me in so much trouble! My parents used to tape our mouths shut on occasion when they wanted peace n quiet. Sometimes, I wish God would do that to me after I've opened my mouth & deeply regretted it. He is so patient during the maturing process it's incredible!
Schazaaaaam! You gave me a great idea Chris! We'll talk more on Friday about the schazaaaam idea!
ReplyDeleteTaping the mouth shut is a bummer -- only because you KNOW how stinggy (how do you spell that?) it is when that tape is ripped off; either that or it's the slow slow slow method.
Cool! Can't wait to hear the idea. And as for the tape - at least it was masking tape not duct tape! LOL But we learned some tricks so it wasn't so painful when we got to take it off.
ReplyDeleteOk, so as I read in Deut today it was like Moses knew that they would forget God & so he was pleading with them over & over again NOT to do it. I've been in situations similar & you try to find so many different ways to say the same thing just hoping something will click so they don't make the bad choice. But in the end, it is their choice.
1:7,8 talks about how our God is intimate with us & listens to us & what other nation has a God like that? Today a lot of people embrace Christianity, but do they realize how close God wants to be with them? I know I've been so blessed to be able to talk/listen to Him at every moment. I love how He makes me feel like I'm the only one on earth who's having a conversation with Him at that moment.
1:15-20 I hadn't thought about the importance of God not showing any form of Himself to Israel when He spoke to them from Sinai. But it makes sense - so they wouldn't try to replicate it & worship it. We always want something visible or tangible to worship or represent God. We want Him on our level. We need to be like Abraham & see the "One who is Invisible" thru faith eyes.
1:21,22 Seems like Moses does vent a bit here & let Israel know that they were the ones that provoked him to hit the rock instead of talk to it.
Rehearsing history, the history of God & I, what He's done for me, how He's delivered me time & time again; His guidance & protection, etc. All these things keep my heart grateful & loyal so that I won't want to wander to other gods. I'll just want to follow my Shepherd Who provides for all that I need.
I was thinking as I read thru the Commandments again how different a world it would be if everyone actually kept Sabbath. There would be less stress for sure. Even some people who think sincerely that Sunday is the day of rest are realizing the benefits of actually taking the whole 24 hr period to stop work & other normal daily routines & spend time with God & their families. I like the emphasis on the servants getting rest too. So that's why I don't like to shop or eat at restaurants unless there's some emergency unplanned trip. I know those people would still be working, but I don't want to add to their burden. It's so refreshing to have the Sabbath, can't imagine life without it. Can't wait to keep it in heaven with the One who created it!
I really appreciated your comments today Chris -- just made those ideas jump out at me when I read through. Maybe that's why we don't see God's form today -- people would recreate again; you see it in marketing all the time; all kinds of hero icons.
ReplyDelete4:2 Do not add to or subtract from these commands - God makes things perfect the first time around; why do we always try to add our addendums and clauses to make it work for our needs?
4:9 reminded me of the song "We Will Remember" (which by the way we'll be singing in praise this weekend) Don't forget what you have seen, don't let these memories escape from your mind . . . and be sure to pass them on. So I'm passing this on: yesterday I had a tough day, some family concerns - - and God sent me 4 people of encouragement, 1 texter, 1 emailer, 1 personal visit, and 1 phone call (the last one I haven't heard from in a couple of years) I KNOW God arranged that for me on the day I needed it, and (as I still need it today) I've been reviewing His love and faithfulness from those personal touches - - He really cares.
Do you think Moses was bitter in vs 22? Probably not, as he offered to be wiped out and let the community live in another story.
4:28,31 gives such hope for friends/family (& myself too) that are far from God -- I need to be patient with the journey He has mapped out, it's just some times that journey is looooong.
It sounds like an awesome, terrifying experience -- the scene of the 10 commandments -- it must have been if grown men begged not to have it happen again -- I wonder if it was like Mt. St. Helens blasting off, something no one would want to experience again.
Sometimes I wish I could have a do over -- I would live so much of my life differently; especially taking 6:5-8 seriously; I know it's never to late to connect and share, but man -- I was so indifferent when I was younger.
Neat how God used almost all the communication ways to encourage you Linda. He's so thoughtful & caring!
ReplyDeleteI'm just dumbfounded when I read about Amaziah defeating the Edomites & then making their gods his own. It's like defeating a team in basketball & then asking them for their playbook so you can learn/run their plays which you successfully defended. Just DUMB! Any coach would be fired for that! And what a terrible way to die, being pushed off a cliff. Yuck, so much time to think before you actually die. Except yesterday I watched a helmet cam of a free jumper off a sky rise hotel & it was pretty fast...he even used a parachute but STILL!
I like the prophet's comments to Amaziah when he asked about all the silver he'd paid for the soldiers he was about to fire. "God's help is worth far more to you than that". Sometimes when I've made a bad choice I do end up paying thru the nose BUT seeing God come thru for me does give me way more in return. It enables me (hopefully) to trust Him with more in the future because I remember what He's already done for me. Makes me think of the rehearsing of His victories for us from yesterday's reading & yes Linda, the song "We will remember".
And then Amaziah was taken prisoner by Jehoash but how did that work as he still was king after J died. Puppet king?
Uzziah warns of pride, getting too big for his britches, as my grandma would say. Forerunner of Nebuchadnezzar.
Interesting how Israel treated their brothers after they captured them. That whole situation reminds me of the Civil War. Very sad affair. I like how the God intervened & they listened & returned the captives with clothes & food. Even treating their wounds. Man...that must have been hard to take for the captives. A real blow to pride on both sides I guess, but would have been harder for me if I'd been a captive.
Ahaz is just another hard head, refusing God. Makes me think of myself when I'm struggling to accomplish something & people offer to help but I refuse their help, saying no, "I'm fine" or "no, I got it" when it's so obvious I don't, DUH! That's why I'm being offered help! It's pride that most of the time keeps me from accepting. Sometimes, I really don't know that I need help though & I just need people to step in. Afterwards, hopefully I learn for the next time & either accept or ask for help. Don't know which it was for Ahaz, but seems like there was a lot of pride & not listening in his case. Warning, warning...:
O wow! Chris -- you commented on all the things I underlined:):) so here's my added ideas (most are the same ideas)
ReplyDelete25:2 Amaziah did what was pleasing in the Lord's sight, but not wholeheartedly. How many times do I find myself in this spot. Doing the right thing, but only because I know it's right -- not because I want to do the right thing with my whole heart, at all costs.
Yeah! I loved that spot too 25:9,10. He was worried about his sunk costs in 9 -- and that's all they were, sunk costs. Leave them behind -- AND The Lord is able to give you much more than this! Notice it doesn't say he WILL give you, but He has the power to. If you are willing to live in His plan, you'll go with what He knows you need.
Those Israelites must have loved fighting! They got there money from Judah (vs10) were sent home, so they didn't even need to risk their lives -- but they were so bummed they raided, ransacked, and killed on their way back?? Makes me wonder if they were really going to fight for Judah in the first place? Maybe they were going to collect their pay, then turn on Judah in the middle of the war? (sounds like other kings had the same idea 28:20)
I marked the pushing off the cliff with an eeeeew! Why did they have to be so brutal? Torture just seems so unnecessary, no matter what war it is.
I loved the illustration Chris (the defeating sports team) or if they ask the coach from the defeated team to come be their coach) What was he thinking? He is so arrogant in 25:16 (not good)
Yeah - Obed-edom shows up again (vs 24) I picture him as a quiet, Godly man -- totally relying on where God puts him.
Uzziah -- 16 years old; 26:5 says it all -- you'd think kings would clue into this after awhile! I'd like to know what they did different to their walls to fortify them (vs 15)
Power to Pride -- seems to be the plight of us humans:(
All heaven is disturbed (28:9) I wonder if that was because they were so quick to bring home slaves after they had ALL heard the stories of slavery in Egypt. Its all about power and control.
I appreciated the story of compassion in 28:14-15. Chris, I don't get why you thought that would be hard for the captives? I'd think they'd be so grateful? Since the people were naked, I'm thinking part of the problem was the shame the Israelites were putting the Judeans through. I think God is horrified when we shame, bully, or torture others -- Since He is a God of love -- those attributes must be so repulsive to Him and -- no doubt -- all heaven is disturbed.
Am early again in commenting on Psalms 122. It begins with "I was glad when they said to me, Let us go to the house of the Lord!"
ReplyDeleteI must say this was a verse that I should have paid more attention to in my life---it would have saved me from a lot of pain and grief. In several of the different places that I lived, I wasn't always glad when I attended some churches. I found division, cliques, open sin and dead Christians who were just going through the motions---there wasn't a lot of joy. I'm sure that these things exist in any church, but some groups exhibit this behavior much more than others.
I like Psalm 123:2 where it talks about a slave girl watching her mistress for the slightest signal. That's how I want to be in my relationship with the Lord--always watching, waiting for the slightest signal from Him to lead me in the direction I should go or the thing He wants me to do.
Psalm 123:3-4--the Living Bible says "Have mercy on us, for we've had our fill of contempt from the rich and proud." Yesterday, I passed by someone I used to work with in the 1980's. We didn't acknowledge one another but it struck me because she's almost 10 yrs older than I am. Yesterday she looked like she was the same age as my 40 yr old daughter. She looked good, but you don't suddenly become much younger without a lot of money, surgery, and help. My first thought was wow---she must really spend a lot of time on herself to get those results. Then I thought wow---I wonder if her husband is cheating on her and she has to compete with a mistress. I know---I'm terrible.
Psalm 124:6--8 "Blessed be Jehovah who has not let our enemies devour us....Our help is in the name of the Lord."
Amen! I praise the name of Jesus who defeated Satan at the cross!
Yeah Sherrie, I haven't always enjoyed going to church either. That started to change when I went to ANC in Wapato when I lived in Yakima. I think it was where I started to become the woman God created me to be instead of what people told me I should be. I don't think I've figured it all out, but I sure am enjoying life a LOT more since that journey started. And then I found the Journey Church LOL!
ReplyDelete122 I see in a couple different ways. 1 being the Jerusalem of Bible times, it represented the epitomy of worship for the Jews. To make the trip to Jerusalem to worship was a big deal to them. Almost like the meccas that other religions take today. So for people to praise it & hold it up as THE place of worship....I see that here.
I also see it as something for us to look forward to - the New Jerusalem in heaven. Can't wait to see a real worship service!
And then I see it as modern times & especially v6-9 the plea for people to get along, being peace seeking, no fighting over trivial things, etc. Because if people see the church is divided over the carpet, then why would they want to be a part of a church who has lost their perspective & is looking at the floor rather than looking up at Jesus?
123 - the pleading & waiting for deliverance. I've experienced that in so many different ways.
124 - The relief when God comes in to intervene & then, on the side of deliverance, looking back & seeing how close we really were to death or giving in to discouragement.
I was just thinking of all the times God has delivered me from death or serious injury - at least the times I know about anyway. When reading about being in the water & almost drowning He reminded me that I almost drowned 2x when I was a kid. How sweet that first gulp of air was! I remember that panicky feeling of not being able to get to the top, no matter how much I tried to paddle up. People were all around the pool but no one seemed to notice that I was struggling with life or death. Finally a kid started yelling & pointing at me & I was yanked up.
There's a lot of parallels with that & how we maybe struggling with things inside & no one notices that we're drowning with situations, sins, discouragement, etc. Maybe we can't be the one that yanks someone up all the time, maybe sometimes we just bring it to someone else's attention - even inadvertently. But God never loses track of us. v6 - He didn't abandon us defenseless. Sometimes, only God can be the Deliverer & sometimes He uses people.
v7 love the picture of being free as a bird in flight. I'm such a different person that what I was 2 1/2 - 3 years ago. It's amazing how free I feel now & yet....I've so far to go. Nice to know that I have a constant Refuge, alert Defender & an extremely good Deliverer. Of course that makes me think of Mandisa's song My Deliverer. :D
Sher - I underlined the servants/slave girl watching the master/mistress -- it SO reminds me of my dog Toby. If I would only have the intense focus on God that Toby has on me. He NEVER lets me out of his sight - following where I go, sleeping under my bed at night - - it is a constant reminder to me of where my focus should be.
ReplyDeleteReally good illustration Chris of drowning, and that we may be used to point out a situation -- maybe that's the prayer warrior in us for friends/family that seem helpless to save themselves or make positive steps toward the abundant life.
I'd have never guessed that it was only 2.5-3 years ago that you were so different. Man, God is powerful, because he now uses you as such an encouragement for so many other people:) Cool beans!
Did you notice that at the beginning of 122, one person is inviting another person? They don't want to hoard the worship to themselves, they want to share in the worship experience. Sometimes I get way more out of a quiet one on one worship, but I also find amazing power and encouragement in worshiping and praising God with others. And I liked how (vs 4) they came to give thanks (not to gossip, compare, critisize or complain!!! It's all about reviewing His attributes and feeling filled with gratitude.
123:3 We have had our fill of . . . . I look forward to Heaven when we'll be done with what this world has to offer.
124:1 What if the Lord had not been on our side? Well -- we have plenty of Bible history (thank you Chronicles) to explain what really happens when we don't walk with God. - scarey stuff.
And I love the verse 122:8 For the sake of my family and friends, I will say, "May you have peace." My friends, I am hoping that this day will be filled with peace for you today (and me too) Keep your eyes on Him! He IS on your side.
Solomon sounds a tad depressed in today's reading. He's done it all & seen it all & realizes that no matter what he's accomplished, learned or discovered, we all die. He keeps saying what's the point? We don't extend our lives, smart/stupid, rich/poor, we all die. He must have thought at the height of his departure from God that he could change that because of who he was - wisest, richest king who ever lived. Now that his pride has taken a hit he's a bit depressed or has realized the folly of his ways.
ReplyDeleteSeems like he's also lived long enough to see how things cycle through. He keeps saying there's nothing new. What was before will happen again. Reminds me of clothing fads. Just keep the clothes & you'll be wearing them again in about 10-15 years. And designers think they've discovered something new & are geniuses. The only thing that changes is the price.
Near the end of 2 I wonder if he realizes that his sons will get all that he has acquired & they haven't earned it & that's bad (v2:20-22).
v23 aptly describes the people who have enough, but to them it never is so they are constantly stressed about getting more. Even their sleep is disturbed with this thought. What a terrible, stressful life.
I like how he ends it though. Do what God has placed before you & enjoy it. Take what God gives you & be grateful for it. This will help you enjoy it - a grateful heart. God has our lives; it's up to Him when we are born & when we die. It's all about His plan for us. We can fight Him all the time & be miserable or accept what He brings us & enjoy it with His Presence right beside us. The choice is ours.
Really well put in that last paragraph, Chris. Again the concept of gratefulness -- we seem to miss that in our culture. We even have a holiday designed to turn us back to gratitude! I wonder if I should add another line to the lines you gave me last night "I choose your presence" "I choose your peace" "I choose to be grateful"!!
ReplyDelete1:18 doesn't really sound like the Proverbs that Solomon wrote - - the greater my wisdom, the greater my grief! very different look, must have been a different stage of his life. But - it does remind me of the statement "ignorance is bliss" and "what you don't know won't hurt you"
2:3 "While seeking wisdom, I clutched at foolishness - - we want it all, the plan and perks of wisdom; but yet, we don't want to be controlled by a plan or held responsible to wisdom.
2:10 a lot of "I" statements there. I think that is at the heart of a dis-satisfied life. It's all about "me" and I never arrive.
2:18 He's at the bottom: I came to hate all my hard work here on earth. and I gotta think, "What does Solomon mean by hard work? He's got servants that'll do whatever at the snap of his fingers??" Is his hard work all this thinking going on? Dealing with people on committees? It'd be interesting to know what he viewed as his hard work!
THEN (verse 24) OK -- here comes the twist. Up to this point it is all "I" "I" "I" THEN I realized that these pleasures are from the hand of God. . . God gives wisdom, knowledge, and JOY to those who please Him; those are gifts that last: wisdom, knowledge, JOY -- wealth comes and goes.
I couldn't put that one part into words but you did Linda. About all the "I"s leading to a dissatisfied life. Well put.
ReplyDeleteHadn't thought about all the hard work he claimed to have done though. Hee hee. But for me, the hardest work I've ever done is administration. It's an all consuming, strength sapping, & sometimes, a thankless job. So he was an administrator & if that's what he's talking about, then I'll definitely give it to him.
Kindof neat to read the dialogue between Hab and God;
ReplyDeleteHab saying - - what's going on? Everyone is fighting and evil;
God saying - - hang on Hab, I'm going to bring humility back when Babylon takes over.
Hab saying, "REALLY? would you really do that to US?" I'm going to climb the watch tower and see if what I really heard was what I really heard.
God says "it won't happen today -- it's a bit in the future, but it's important for these people to understand that nothing can save them, not wisdom, not wealth, not fortified walls - - I'm their only hope.
and with that - Hab busts into singing (in his mind, he has the orchestra in the background) I am filled with AWE by your amazing works . . .
Again I say -- those old testament prophets may not understand everything that is going on, or will happen; but they are determined to focus on the goodness, the mercy, the power of God:)
vs 16 I will wait quietly for the coming day when disaster will strike the people who invade us. (he knows the end -- even though there will be tough times between the present and the end)
vs 17 even though . . . even though . . . even though . . . yet I will rejoice in the Lord! I will be joyful in the God of my salvation. The Sovereign Lord is my strength.
Hmmmmmm -- there's a LOT that will happen between our present and the end of the world, maybe some application?
In the back of my Bible, years ago I wrote the words to a song--"Though the fig trees fail to blossom and no fruit be on the vine ---and the fields yield no food--I will praise Thee Lord Divine."
ReplyDeleteI refer to these words over and over whenever I get down---
But I never realized that this song was actual scripture right out of Habakkuk 3:17-18.
In these 2 chapters the #3 stood out to me among other things. Saul had to wait 3 days for Ananias to come heal him from blindness. Cornelius had his vision at 3 pm & sent 3 men to get Peter. And Peter's vision with the sheet/animals happened 3 times because there were 3 men that were coming to get him. It was something I hadn't noticed as much before, except for the 3 men being represented by the sheet/animals 3 times.
ReplyDeleteAs I read about Saul waiting 3 days, I know he had a lot to think about BUT when Jesus told him to go into the city & there he'd be told what to do....there's no time frame given. So I would have assumed that I'd be told right away....but it didn't happen. I've always thought of Saul as an impatient type but here it doesn't record any impatience on his part. I don't do well waiting on God but I need to do better since His timing is ALWAYS the best.
Nice of Barnabas to stand up for Saul. I can understand the disciples suspicions, I would have been too. What if it's a trick? Barnabas was an encourager though & there are times in all our lives when if it weren't for 1 person standing up for us or being our cheerleader, we would have thrown in the towel. There's a lot to be said for the gift of encouragement.
I've been noticing that when the Holy Spirit fell on people it was not always manifested by the speaking of tongues or languages, which makes sense as the gifts of the Spirit are several & tongues is the last one listed in 1 Cor 12. And 1Cor 12:4 says there are a varieties of gifts (the list is v8-10) but the same HS. So I don't get why people put such a weight on just 1 of them.
Unless...what I've also noticed is that when Gentiles (those considered inferior by Jews) received the HS then they spoke in tongues IN THE SAME WAY that the "superior" Jews did when it originally fell on them. I think God knew the inbred superiority complex that Jews had with towards any other nation & so when the HS fell on these people He did it in a way to let the disciples/Jews know that these sheep were in no way inferior to them & were to be treated the same. God is not prejudiced or biased. There are no levels in heaven for better saints as some churches teach.
Peter confirms this about God in 10:34-36 when he says that God plays no favorites "...It makes no difference who you are or where you're from—if you want God and are ready to do as he says, the door is open..." I'm so thankful that salvation is free to EVERYONE!
Great thoughts Chris -- yeah; I didn't notice the many times with 3 either; but I did think while reading the Jesus was in the tomb 3 days, and wondered if there was any connection to that -- Saul waiting quietly 3 days before the power of his testimony was used by God.
ReplyDeleteand an interesting thought about using the same gift for the Gentiles as the Jews to show the Jews that this was legit from God - - maybe!
As I was reading about the oof Paul -- I wondered if there was a logical progressio that many go through: 1) encounter vs 3: 2) humility vs 8: 3) seeking vs 11 4) answers vs 12
in verse 15 -- God doesn't pussy foot around with Annanias and his fear: GOOOOOO!!!! He's the one I want to use! Wow! To be chosen of God, and God was waiting for JUST the right time to put his mission in motion. Even Saul's passion to persecute later got everyone's attention. God even used that to show His power of transformation. And Saul became more and more powerful - - no one wanted to debate him, so they wanted to murder him (what happened to the 10 commandment idea?)
I love chapter 10 and the idea that God has a passion for ALL -- He wants to save ALL of us!! Yeah -- not just Christians; He's out for anyone that'll believe in HIM!
And it is quite interesting to me, the only requirement for baptism again in the story of Cornelius is belief in Jesus -- I can imagine though, that Cornelius and his family then studied the writing available to understand God's idea of an abundant life:)
GREAT points Sher -- I loved the correlation of Saul's blindness to his blindly following after his own religious ideas -- never ever thought of that before!
ReplyDeleteAND I also agree with you as to why Peter asked them to leave the room -- the unbelief. I think James has quite a bit to say about this in James 5:13-15.
But -- I don't think God was talking about Kosher and un-Kosher meat in Acts 10 based on Peter's interpretation in vs 28. so -- we differ on that translation of the meat-vision:)