The Father knew and chose us The Spirit made us holy The son cleansed us by His blood:)
I love the wording of vs 4 we have a priceless inheritance - that is kep in heaven for us, pure and undefiled beyond the reach of change and decay -- it'll be fun to hear what the wording for this in the MSG.
vs 6: simple, but powerful "there is wonderful JOY ahead!
13 Think clearly and exercise self-control - don't slip back into your old ways of living to satisfy your own desires. I think the self-control we choose is to submit to God's will, choose to abandon our will to His.
vs 17 "foreigners in the land" I gotta keep that always in front of me!
18 and the ransom paid was not mere gold or silver (seems like we always think of $ as the ultimate). 20 God chose Him as your ransom long before the world began -- (so God had this plan in place even before the world was created)
2:11 keep away from worldly desires that wage war against your very souls (we are in a war - and we are the target in that war!)
2:13 - everyone deserves respect! T or F?
2:15 - this is a picture of Daniel back in Medo-Persia. Didn't keep him out of the den of lions, but no one argued with his integrity - he had the respect of everyone, even if they didn't like him. and I see 2:23 (He left his case in the hands of God, who always judges fairly) in Daniel's case - and many of those persecuted and martyred between now and then.
Some really tough stuff to swallow for women to be "obedient" also the slave/master advice. I think God' ultimate plan is for the husbands of wives and masters of slaves to pour such respect and love on those working with them -- that the submit to authority will be a joy and an honor! Everyone likes to work with and for someone else who is respectful and kind; who is compassionate and fair - just humans have messed it all up with control, abuse, prejudice (big surprise)
Look at God's plan in 3:8-10; that's more like what He has in mind. But, gotta admit, some of Paul's wording sounds pretty pro-man/master:(
neat pic of baptism in 3:21; it's not removing dirt from your outward body, but a response to God from a clean conscience!
1:17 talks about those who like to pray to God when they need help, but afterwards, don't back it up with a living faith. Similar to Israel of old. Maybe the trials then are to bring us back with the whole heart open to Him, not just needing help.
2:11 "Friends, this world is not your home, so don't make yourselves cozy in it. Don't indulge your ego at the expense of your soul."
I think of Joseph when it comes to unfairness. Sure, he was a spoiled kid, but even putting what his brothers did aside, the rest of his story before becoming prime minister was totally unfair. I struggle with this a lot. If it's not fair, then I get extremely angry. I have to constantly surrender that to God because it's just not fair down here.
I like the call in 3:1-4 to cultivate the inner beauty. This is what God looks at. We twist so much down here.
For today's reading in Deut. I liked how Moses kept referring to obeying AND loving God. Seems like the Jews got the obedience thing down pretty good, but the loving was left behind. Christianity today wants people to choose sides as well, but they can't be separated.
Since those that are getting ready to cross over were just kids when their parents came out of Egypt, it's good that Moses is going back over everything. I'm sure they'd heard it before, but now they were all hearing it told the same way. Humans can put their own spin on things at times, but here, God is having Moses re tell history to set things out right. I like that.
God told Moses to carve out the stone tablets for round 2. I was thinking about how much more seriously a person will take a gift if they invest in it (like a college education or something). Anyway, I wonder if that's why God had Moses carve out set 2 and haul them up the Mountain? God could have just handed him set 2!
Moses stayed up on the mountain in the Lord's presence again for 40 days and nights (vs 10) pleaing with the Lord not to destroy the people. Maybe this is a illustration or foreshadowing of Jesus 40 days and nights. I always thought He was gaining strength for his mission ahead, but maybe He, too, was praying for our salvation. I like that thought -- that even though I'm 2000 years down the pike, He was thinking of me.
2 times it talks about worshiping God and clinging to Him (10:20 and 11:22) Once it says cling, another time hold tightly -- there are times that I worship, pray, believe -- but I still don't understand why certain things are happening -- all that's left is to cling and hold tightly while He drags me (cuz I don't want to go) through the rough terrain.
It's pretty obvious that it's ok to eat meat (at least certain kinds of meat) - - but after reading that book about how animals are abused to provide mega-meat and all the additives and hormones they're fed to bulk them up quickly -- sorry, I'm going back to the vege-side. Animals then were raised so differently from animals now!
Gotta love Manasseh! He is so representative of the church today. He is heavily into the occult--worshiping the sun, moon, stars---sacrificing his own children as burnt offerings, sexual deviancy--- He consulted mediums, fortune tellers, sorcerers and placed an idol in the Temple---(our bodies are the temple of Christ) There was a lot of occult activity here in Cowlitz County during the past week.
Many people claim to be Christians, but justify the use of witchcraft for entertainment. Because the coming antichrist will use the occult as his foundation, we're now seeing an increase in the promotion and acceptance of darkness.
Manasseh totally turned himself over to the devil and to the ways of darkness. The occult does not change from one generation to the next. Satan just re-packages it in an acceptable way to deceive people-- especially Christians. And those who call themselves Christians are easily deceived. Many people coming out of the occult have tried to tell Christians the things they've experienced, and what occurs, but Christians look at them like they're crazy.
Chapter 35:3--Spend your time ministering to the Lord.. I'm always amazed that the Lord wants me to listen to His heart, listen to what or who He's distressed over, and be a companion to Him.
Chapter 34-35--I was amazed at the story of Josiah. When he was young, he began to search for the god of his ancestor David. He purged the land of evil and tried to obey the Lord. Look like he was doing a good job, but he missed the direction of the Lord at a certain point in his life and he ended up dead. Happens a lot in the lives of Christians. (My people die for lack of knowledge)
Yeah Sher! It's just scarey reading all that Manassa did - - He had absolutely NO respect for God - really amazing considering how God blessed Hezekiah's reign. But, I also thought it was neat how God humbled Manassa -- and that he actually TURNED! That gives hope for ALL that turn toward God -- what a God of love. I tend to hold on to grudges when people snub me, but not God -- He's after each one of us:):) If we turn -- He rejoices!
I agree with you Sher -- the occult is getting stronger and stronger; a big pull for many people. God's direction to stay totally away from it is very very important.
in 34:14 when the book of the law was found and read -- I wonder what part? I was just thinking about all the council we read about yesterday in Deut 12 -- maybe that's what he read. (Destroying all the pagan gods and pagan tools of the trade)
Good to hear about another woman prophet (Huldah) God uses men, women, children (Samuel) He is open to anyone with an open heart!
What great leadership Josiah shows -- he goes to the temple and gather's everyone with him. Then HE reads the law to them, doesn't pawn it off on one of his servents or scribes. It would be neat to have heard the passion he read it with, as it sure seemed to have an affect. Then HE pledged - - and then THEY pledged. I wonder if I would be as willing today to follow? (Kindof interesting tho that he required them to worship the Lord - - maybe because they had just pledged to do it, but that word require is filled with caution lights) I like the requirements of the Lord, though -- Micah 6:8 to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.
Would have been fun to see the unity and joy of the passover -- but I don't think I would have liked all the slaughter of the animals:( I guess they were used to it, tho -- a way of life.
I like how Chronicles gives us the redemptive side of Manassah's story. Sometimes we only like to dwell on the negative part of people's lives & don't let them move on.
Wonder what kind of man Cyrus was. He obviously listened to the God of heaven, at least at the beginning.
Seems like in this reading, God used different people & spoke thru pagan kings (Neco of Egypt). We really need to take everything & be faithful Bereans. They studied/prayed to see whether the things they heard were of God. And I'm sure they just used what Scriptures they had, not human interpretations. We have so many books today that have partial truth, but take the Bible out of context. It's really important to study the Bible for truth, not human authors.
I noticed in MSG that the last few Psalms have been labeled "A Pilgrim Song". In other versions it says "A Song of Ascents". I've never understood the latter, but the first makes sense to me now as I read them. They are words that a traveler would say, not necessarily one who has reached his final destination.
130 was the one that spoke to me this a.m. I bet we've all said that 1st verse to the Lord "The bottom has fallen out of my life!" Listen to me! Help me!
But the rest of it is where we find our help - by Waiting & Watching for God. It's really only morning (v6) when God is with me, He is the Light of My Life as Ps 27 says. So I'm waiting for what He'll say & do (v5). That's really all that matters.
I put my own name in v7 to wait for Him for "...with God's arrival comes love, with God's arrival comes generous redemption..." Guess that would be my White Knight in shining armor!
Thank you Chris -- I so needed your words this am. I just crossed out the word Israel and put my name above the crossed out place: O Linda, hope in the Lord . . .
and it was 130 that spoke to me as well - - "from the depths of despair" or I like how MSG said "the bottom has fallen out of my life!" right now, I'm hanging on to God to work in my kid's lives. They are all grown and gone (so no luck on 128:3 - they aren't around my table anymore) and not a lot of luck with vs 6 either LOL!
But I'm just asking God to push Satan back, as they (and by they, it's me too -- as Satan is trying to push me under with concern & worry) are on enemy territory and this world is a battlefield - - I'm just praying that they recognize that they are in the middle of the battle; in fact, they're (and by they - I'm including myself) the target of Satan's battle plans.
Linda Said: "But I'm just asking God to push Satan back" Linda--I don't believe that we should ask the Lord to do something that He's already given us the power to do.
Luke 10:19--Look, I have given you authority over all the power of the enemy.... As Christians, we have Authority of Jesus Christ-- The legal right to act against the powers of darkness, using the name of Jesus.
Jesus said He gave us authority to do what He did and more (John 14:12). I Cor.4:20, Psalms 4-6, Mark 16:17
John 10:10-- The thief comes to steal, kill and destroy. The thief is Satan and Jesus defeated him at the cross. So don't let the enemy steal from you. Take back whats yours.
Now onto Psalms-- Psalms 128:1--Blessings on all who reverence and trust the Lord. vs:6--I became a grandmother at the age of 38. I haven't been able to enjoy all of my 8 grandchildren as much as I would like. I have been really blessed with my last 2 however. I have Jennifer (age 21) Jack, Natassia, Tryson, Tallon, Tehya, Gunnar and Kate.
Thanks Sher for the reminder that He can work through me.
But I also believe that the prayer of faith unleashes power that works against the devil; so I don't have an issue with asking God to push Satan back away from my kids. Mark 11:24 "Therefore I say unto you, what things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them." I desire for Satan to stay away from my kids; and for Godly people to be put in their path. and John 14:13 "Whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son."
The trick for me is -- persistent faith. Sometimes I feel like I'm on an ocean, a high tide of faith, and a low tide of taking back control! It's very stressful to take back control, it's very calming to remain in His control. I have no clue why I'd ever be tempted to take back the control, except that Satan knows how weak I am when it comes to the temptation of worry!!
Yes Linda, satan does know our weaknesses pretty well. Remember to choose God's Presence & therefore His Peace, which is inseparable from His Presence. So many thoughts...so little discipline to type. I am praying for you. ;)
Ecc 5 started out with a nice spiritual smack upside the head this a.m. v1. Go to God's house to learn...not speak. Listen to Him, keep your words few & LISTEN, LISTEN to Him. Keep the heart open to Him.
Too many times I find myself saying what I think people want to hear & then I do that with God too. Just zipping the lips & listening to people - I don't need to comment - is usually more appreciated. I do better when I take something & mull it over than when I quickly comment. I realize I can't do that with everything, but need to do it more.
6:6 Just made me think of how back then everyone knew the truth of what happens when you die. You all go to the same place, back to dust as we read earlier. So when did satan bring in the spiritualist belief of people going off to heaven? I know I studied it out before, but can't remember exactly when it started infiltrating the early Christian church. I'm thinking it was about the time they realized they could collect $$$ if they said there was a purgatory & you had to pay to get your soul outta there.
Satan cranks out counterfeits pretty fast...makes me think of our reading in Acts with Simon the sorcerer, how he was "healing" people to counter what the disciples were doing. Oh, also the Egyptian magicians who imitated Moses' rod turning into a snake.
I picked up on that "keep your ears open and your mouth shut!" But, just as much as not talking -- you are also to be actively listening. Solomon appears to be big on acquiring wisdom (interesting, since HE was the wisest man ever, maybe because he was so focused on acquiring it!) Anyway, I just read a couple chapters in a book that made a lot of sense to me. "approach every conversation as fellow learners rather than posturing as experts" is one thought I underlined!!
A lot here to say about the futility of money! "How meaningless to think that wealth brings true happiness" I think there is such truth in that -- when someone is dying, they don't want their "things" around them; they want people they care about. Relationships are #1 in my book.
"Hoarding riches harms the saver -- it's generous people that seem to be happiest:)
"Enjoy what you have rather than desiring what you don't have -- good Thanksgiving thought!!
7:3 "Sorrow is better than laughter, for sadness has a refining influence on us" That's true -- I tend to do more praying and searching when I'm working through my problems.
7:10 "Don't long for the good old days" ouch! find myself doing that once in awhile concerning my kids! So the advice is - - enjoy the memories and live for the day you're in!!
I'm dying to hear your thoughts on Solomon's statement in 7:28 not ONE virtuous woman?? Who is he hanging out with??
He was probably hanging with his harem & realizing it wasn't a good thing! You're ahead of the game. That's next week, but I had to double check to see if I'd missed it this week.
Haggai 2:9 says that the temple they are rebuilding will surpass the one Solomon built. I think that is because this is the temple that Jesus worshiped at when He became Man. The rest of the verse confirms this & I like how MSG puts it "...a place in which I will hand out wholeness and holiness." Which is a perfect description of Jesus' life here on earth. I think of Him receiving the children & blessing them in the temple after He had cleansed it. And not condemning Mary when they had caught her in adultery & wanted to trap Him. That is just an incredible healing scene to me. He came to restore, to save & make us holy.
v10-14 show that it's easier to be influenced for evil than good. We're bent that way since Eden. Can't be holy by rubbing shoulders with someone who seems like they have it all together. It has to be Christ in us the Hope of glory as Paul puts it.
Did this backwards, but 2 struck me more than 1.
However, in 1, it shows what happens when we get our priorities screwed up. God needs to be 1st. So easy to comfy in this world when times are good. But if we just give half-hearted service or lip service to God, He knows. We can't do that like we do to each other. He can see our minds/hearts so funny/sad how we treat Him, our Creator like we do each other sometimes.
I think the lean times aren't necessarily punishment but discipline so we get our priorities back on track. Go back to our 1st Love & the passion we had for Him.
So I've a question on the last couple of verses. God says He's gonna topple nations/governments, etc. & He's chosen Zerubbabel. When did it happen? And though He's chosen Z it plainly says that God will be the one toppling the nations & causing the chaos, NOT a human. So did Z run ahead of God & it didn't take place? I gotta refresh on my history. Seems like it wasn't too long before they were back under Roman control. Must have disobeyed Him again pretty quickly. Will we ever learn?
God wants to live right in the middle of us - his temple. That's pretty awesome when you figure how we've ignored Him time and time again - going about our own projects (building up our houses)
But pretty exciting how the whole remnant of God's people (1:12) began to obey the message from the Lord, and feared Him! They actually STOPPED and LISTENED!!! Yeah! Teach me from THAT! and then (14) the Lord sparked the enthusiasm (pour out Your Spirit Lord -- cuz we NEED enthusiasm!) and then He encouraged them (what a great God and King) He doesn't just order us around, but he sparks enthusiasm and encourages us! HE is our cheer leader!
Yes Chris - I thought the same thing -- don't be discouraged by the outward beauty of the temple, because the INWARD will be blessed with my physical God-became-flesh presence. It's like ourselves -- don't be discouraged if the outward is not as beautiful as you hope for, because if God is living in us, our bodies will be more beautiful than if we were beautiful only on the outside -- and (vs 6) it's true in both cases: I will bring peace!!
Acts 13/14 today remind me of Heb 12:15 where it says just a thistle or 2 can ruin a garden in no time.
There was acceptance of The Message in the towns Paul/Barnabas went to BUT a whisper here, a misrepresentation there & soon the town threw them out or beat them up. Instead of studying things out for themselves, they listened to people & rejected the Truth.
Unfortunately, this is repeated over & over again today. Where ever Truth is presented satan always has people who are start rumors, talk behind people's back, incite jealousy, or just speak lies & twist the Bible to their own ideas.
Goes along real well with Pastor Mike's "Truish" series of sermons right now.
But when you're standing on The Bible, you don't have to back down, great encouragement in 13:46,47. We're just doing what God commanded. God's followers have always been the minority throughout history. But because they were following God & not man, God always blessed their efforts. They maybe lost their lives, but that was inconsequential to them. God was paramount.
14:21,22 Confirms this too. That's why Paul/Barnabas encouraged everyone. But gave them fair warning. "...urging them to stick with what they had begun to believe and not quit, making it clear to them that it wouldn't be easy: Anyone signing up for the kingdom of God has to go through plenty of hard times."
The nice thing is that Jesus has been through it all & knows how to comfort, strengthen us in each trial, even when they seem like they are gonna break us. He is enough.
13:1 the HOly Spirit said . . . I would love to hear the H.S. voice! I often feel directed and guided by Him, but how blessed to hear Him speak!
Jealousy sure plays a huge part in Satan's tactics -- ya see it twice in today's reading, and you see it all around us today.
Saul/Paul -- so bold! Look at the boldness in 13:9,10. I believe that is God working again - as God was after the governor's heart, and He doesn't take it lightly when someone blocks that!
Apparently if the Sabbath had changed to Sunday in honor of the Lord's ressurection -- someone forgot to tell the disciples!! (13:14)
Lot of information about what happens when one dies in 13: 34 - 37.
I love the message of the gospel in 13:38-39 and what a great reaction! the people begged for more:)
1:2 shows 3 aspects of the trinity:
ReplyDeleteThe Father knew and chose us
The Spirit made us holy
The son cleansed us by His blood:)
I love the wording of vs 4 we have a priceless inheritance - that is kep in heaven for us, pure and undefiled beyond the reach of change and decay -- it'll be fun to hear what the wording for this in the MSG.
vs 6: simple, but powerful "there is wonderful JOY ahead!
13 Think clearly and exercise self-control - don't slip back into your old ways of living to satisfy your own desires. I think the self-control we choose is to submit to God's will, choose to abandon our will to His.
vs 17 "foreigners in the land" I gotta keep that always in front of me!
18 and the ransom paid was not mere gold or silver (seems like we always think of $ as the ultimate). 20 God chose Him as your ransom long before the world began -- (so God had this plan in place even before the world was created)
2:11 keep away from worldly desires that wage war against your very souls (we are in a war - and we are the target in that war!)
2:13 - everyone deserves respect! T or F?
2:15 - this is a picture of Daniel back in Medo-Persia. Didn't keep him out of the den of lions, but no one argued with his integrity - he had the respect of everyone, even if they didn't like him. and I see 2:23 (He left his case in the hands of God, who always judges fairly) in Daniel's case - and many of those persecuted and martyred between now and then.
Some really tough stuff to swallow for women to be "obedient" also the slave/master advice. I think God' ultimate plan is for the husbands of wives and masters of slaves to pour such respect and love on those working with them -- that the submit to authority will be a joy and an honor! Everyone likes to work with and for someone else who is respectful and kind; who is compassionate and fair - just humans have messed it all up with control, abuse, prejudice (big surprise)
Look at God's plan in 3:8-10; that's more like what He has in mind. But, gotta admit, some of Paul's wording sounds pretty pro-man/master:(
neat pic of baptism in 3:21; it's not removing dirt from your outward body, but a response to God from a clean conscience!
Your translation trumps MSG on 1:4.
ReplyDelete1:17 talks about those who like to pray to God when they need help, but afterwards, don't back it up with a living faith. Similar to Israel of old. Maybe the trials then are to bring us back with the whole heart open to Him, not just needing help.
2:11 "Friends, this world is not your home, so don't make yourselves cozy in it. Don't indulge your ego at the expense of your soul."
I think of Joseph when it comes to unfairness. Sure, he was a spoiled kid, but even putting what his brothers did aside, the rest of his story before becoming prime minister was totally unfair. I struggle with this a lot. If it's not fair, then I get extremely angry. I have to constantly surrender that to God because it's just not fair down here.
I like the call in 3:1-4 to cultivate the inner beauty. This is what God looks at. We twist so much down here.
For today's reading in Deut. I liked how Moses kept referring to obeying AND loving God. Seems like the Jews got the obedience thing down pretty good, but the loving was left behind. Christianity today wants people to choose sides as well, but they can't be separated.
ReplyDeleteSince those that are getting ready to cross over were just kids when their parents came out of Egypt, it's good that Moses is going back over everything. I'm sure they'd heard it before, but now they were all hearing it told the same way. Humans can put their own spin on things at times, but here, God is having Moses re tell history to set things out right. I like that.
God told Moses to carve out the stone tablets for round 2. I was thinking about how much more seriously a person will take a gift if they invest in it (like a college education or something). Anyway, I wonder if that's why God had Moses carve out set 2 and haul them up the Mountain? God could have just handed him set 2!
ReplyDeleteMoses stayed up on the mountain in the Lord's presence again for 40 days and nights (vs 10) pleaing with the Lord not to destroy the people. Maybe this is a illustration or foreshadowing of Jesus 40 days and nights. I always thought He was gaining strength for his mission ahead, but maybe He, too, was praying for our salvation. I like that thought -- that even though I'm 2000 years down the pike, He was thinking of me.
2 times it talks about worshiping God and clinging to Him (10:20 and 11:22) Once it says cling, another time hold tightly -- there are times that I worship, pray, believe -- but I still don't understand why certain things are happening -- all that's left is to cling and hold tightly while He drags me (cuz I don't want to go) through the rough terrain.
It's pretty obvious that it's ok to eat meat (at least certain kinds of meat) - - but after reading that book about how animals are abused to provide mega-meat and all the additives and hormones they're fed to bulk them up quickly -- sorry, I'm going back to the vege-side. Animals then were raised so differently from animals now!
Gotta love Manasseh! He is so representative of the church today. He is heavily into the occult--worshiping the sun, moon, stars---sacrificing his own children as burnt offerings, sexual deviancy--- He consulted mediums, fortune tellers, sorcerers and placed an idol in the Temple---(our bodies are the temple of Christ) There was a lot of occult activity here in Cowlitz County during the past week.
ReplyDeleteMany people claim to be Christians, but justify the use of witchcraft for entertainment. Because the coming antichrist will use the occult as his foundation, we're now seeing an increase in the promotion and acceptance of darkness.
Manasseh totally turned himself over to the devil and to the ways of darkness. The occult does not change from one generation to the next. Satan just re-packages it in an acceptable way to deceive people-- especially Christians. And those who call themselves Christians are easily deceived. Many people coming out of the occult have tried to tell Christians the things they've experienced, and what occurs, but Christians look at them like they're crazy.
Chapter 35:3--Spend your time ministering to the Lord.. I'm always amazed that the Lord wants me
to listen to His heart, listen to what or who He's distressed over, and be a companion to Him.
Chapter 34-35--I was amazed at the story of Josiah. When he was young, he began to search for the god of his ancestor David. He purged the land of evil and tried to obey the Lord. Look like he was doing a good job, but he missed the direction of the Lord at a certain point in his life and he ended up dead. Happens a lot in the lives of Christians. (My people die for lack of knowledge)
Yeah Sher! It's just scarey reading all that Manassa did - - He had absolutely NO respect for God - really amazing considering how God blessed Hezekiah's reign. But, I also thought it was neat how God humbled Manassa -- and that he actually TURNED! That gives hope for ALL that turn toward God -- what a God of love. I tend to hold on to grudges when people snub me, but not God -- He's after each one of us:):) If we turn -- He rejoices!
ReplyDeleteI agree with you Sher -- the occult is getting stronger and stronger; a big pull for many people. God's direction to stay totally away from it is very very important.
in 34:14 when the book of the law was found and read -- I wonder what part? I was just thinking about all the council we read about yesterday in Deut 12 -- maybe that's what he read. (Destroying all the pagan gods and pagan tools of the trade)
Good to hear about another woman prophet (Huldah) God uses men, women, children (Samuel) He is open to anyone with an open heart!
What great leadership Josiah shows -- he goes to the temple and gather's everyone with him. Then HE reads the law to them, doesn't pawn it off on one of his servents or scribes. It would be neat to have heard the passion he read it with, as it sure seemed to have an affect. Then HE pledged - - and then THEY pledged. I wonder if I would be as willing today to follow? (Kindof interesting tho that he required them to worship the Lord - - maybe because they had just pledged to do it, but that word require is filled with caution lights) I like the requirements of the Lord, though -- Micah 6:8 to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.
Would have been fun to see the unity and joy of the passover -- but I don't think I would have liked all the slaughter of the animals:( I guess they were used to it, tho -- a way of life.
I like how Chronicles gives us the redemptive side of Manassah's story. Sometimes we only like to dwell on the negative part of people's lives & don't let them move on.
ReplyDeleteWonder what kind of man Cyrus was. He obviously listened to the God of heaven, at least at the beginning.
Seems like in this reading, God used different people & spoke thru pagan kings (Neco of Egypt). We really need to take everything & be faithful Bereans. They studied/prayed to see whether the things they heard were of God. And I'm sure they just used what Scriptures they had, not human interpretations. We have so many books today that have partial truth, but take the Bible out of context. It's really important to study the Bible for truth, not human authors.
I noticed in MSG that the last few Psalms have been labeled "A Pilgrim Song". In other versions it says "A Song of Ascents". I've never understood the latter, but the first makes sense to me now as I read them. They are words that a traveler would say, not necessarily one who has reached his final destination.
ReplyDelete130 was the one that spoke to me this a.m. I bet we've all said that 1st verse to the Lord "The bottom has fallen out of my life!" Listen to me! Help me!
But the rest of it is where we find our help - by Waiting & Watching for God. It's really only morning (v6) when God is with me, He is the Light of My Life as Ps 27 says. So I'm waiting for what He'll say & do (v5). That's really all that matters.
I put my own name in v7 to wait for Him for "...with God's arrival comes love, with God's arrival comes generous redemption..." Guess that would be my White Knight in shining armor!
Thank you Chris -- I so needed your words this am. I just crossed out the word Israel and put my name above the crossed out place: O Linda, hope in the Lord . . .
ReplyDeleteand it was 130 that spoke to me as well - - "from the depths of despair" or I like how MSG said "the bottom has fallen out of my life!" right now, I'm hanging on to God to work in my kid's lives. They are all grown and gone (so no luck on 128:3 - they aren't around my table anymore) and not a lot of luck with vs 6 either LOL!
But I'm just asking God to push Satan back, as they (and by they, it's me too -- as Satan is trying to push me under with concern & worry) are on enemy territory and this world is a battlefield - - I'm just praying that they recognize that they are in the middle of the battle; in fact, they're (and by they - I'm including myself) the target of Satan's battle plans.
Linda Said: "But I'm just asking God to push Satan back"
ReplyDeleteLinda--I don't believe that we should ask the Lord to do something that He's already given us the power to do.
Luke 10:19--Look, I have given you authority over all the power of the enemy....
As Christians, we have Authority of Jesus Christ-- The legal right to act against the powers of darkness, using the name of Jesus.
Jesus said He gave us authority to do what He did and more (John 14:12).
I Cor.4:20, Psalms 4-6, Mark 16:17
John 10:10-- The thief comes to steal, kill and destroy. The thief is Satan and Jesus defeated
him at the cross. So don't let the enemy steal from you. Take back whats yours.
Now onto Psalms--
Psalms 128:1--Blessings on all who reverence and trust the Lord. vs:6--I became a grandmother at the age of 38. I haven't been able to enjoy all of my 8 grandchildren as much as I would like. I have been really blessed with my last 2 however. I have Jennifer (age 21) Jack, Natassia, Tryson, Tallon, Tehya, Gunnar and Kate.
Thanks Sher for the reminder that He can work through me.
ReplyDeleteBut I also believe that the prayer of faith unleashes power that works against the devil; so I don't have an issue with asking God to push Satan back away from my kids. Mark 11:24 "Therefore I say unto you, what things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them." I desire for Satan to stay away from my kids; and for Godly people to be put in their path. and John 14:13 "Whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son."
The trick for me is -- persistent faith. Sometimes I feel like I'm on an ocean, a high tide of faith, and a low tide of taking back control! It's very stressful to take back control, it's very calming to remain in His control. I have no clue why I'd ever be tempted to take back the control, except that Satan knows how weak I am when it comes to the temptation of worry!!
Yes Linda, satan does know our weaknesses pretty well. Remember to choose God's Presence & therefore His Peace, which is inseparable from His Presence. So many thoughts...so little discipline to type. I am praying for you. ;)
ReplyDeleteEcc 5 started out with a nice spiritual smack upside the head this a.m.
v1. Go to God's house to learn...not speak. Listen to Him, keep your words few & LISTEN, LISTEN to Him. Keep the heart open to Him.
Too many times I find myself saying what I think people want to hear & then I do that with God too. Just zipping the lips & listening to people - I don't need to comment - is usually more appreciated. I do better when I take something & mull it over than when I quickly comment. I realize I can't do that with everything, but need to do it more.
6:6 Just made me think of how back then everyone knew the truth of what happens when you die. You all go to the same place, back to dust as we read earlier. So when did satan bring in the spiritualist belief of people going off to heaven? I know I studied it out before, but can't remember exactly when it started infiltrating the early Christian church. I'm thinking it was about the time they realized they could collect $$$ if they said there was a purgatory & you had to pay to get your soul outta there.
Satan cranks out counterfeits pretty fast...makes me think of our reading in Acts with Simon the sorcerer, how he was "healing" people to counter what the disciples were doing. Oh, also the Egyptian magicians who imitated Moses' rod turning into a snake.
I picked up on that "keep your ears open and your mouth shut!" But, just as much as not talking -- you are also to be actively listening. Solomon appears to be big on acquiring wisdom (interesting, since HE was the wisest man ever, maybe because he was so focused on acquiring it!) Anyway, I just read a couple chapters in a book that made a lot of sense to me. "approach every conversation as fellow learners rather than posturing as experts" is one thought I underlined!!
ReplyDeleteA lot here to say about the futility of money! "How meaningless to think that wealth brings true happiness" I think there is such truth in that -- when someone is dying, they don't want their "things" around them; they want people they care about. Relationships are #1 in my book.
"Hoarding riches harms the saver -- it's generous people that seem to be happiest:)
"Enjoy what you have rather than desiring what you don't have -- good Thanksgiving thought!!
7:3 "Sorrow is better than laughter, for sadness has a refining influence on us" That's true -- I tend to do more praying and searching when I'm working through my problems.
7:10 "Don't long for the good old days" ouch! find myself doing that once in awhile concerning my kids! So the advice is - - enjoy the memories and live for the day you're in!!
I'm dying to hear your thoughts on Solomon's statement in 7:28 not ONE virtuous woman?? Who is he hanging out with??
He was probably hanging with his harem & realizing it wasn't a good thing! You're ahead of the game. That's next week, but I had to double check to see if I'd missed it this week.
ReplyDeleteHaggai 2:9 says that the temple they are rebuilding will surpass the one Solomon built. I think that is because this is the temple that Jesus worshiped at when He became Man. The rest of the verse confirms this & I like how MSG puts it "...a place in which I will hand out wholeness and holiness." Which is a perfect description of Jesus' life here on earth. I think of Him receiving the children & blessing them in the temple after He had cleansed it. And not condemning Mary when they had caught her in adultery & wanted to trap Him. That is just an incredible healing scene to me. He came to restore, to save & make us holy.
ReplyDeletev10-14 show that it's easier to be influenced for evil than good. We're bent that way since Eden. Can't be holy by rubbing shoulders with someone who seems like they have it all together. It has to be Christ in us the Hope of glory as Paul puts it.
Did this backwards, but 2 struck me more than 1.
However, in 1, it shows what happens when we get our priorities screwed up. God needs to be 1st. So easy to comfy in this world when times are good. But if we just give half-hearted service or lip service to God, He knows. We can't do that like we do to each other. He can see our minds/hearts so funny/sad how we treat Him, our Creator like we do each other sometimes.
I think the lean times aren't necessarily punishment but discipline so we get our priorities back on track. Go back to our 1st Love & the passion we had for Him.
So I've a question on the last couple of verses. God says He's gonna topple nations/governments, etc. & He's chosen Zerubbabel. When did it happen? And though He's chosen Z it plainly says that God will be the one toppling the nations & causing the chaos, NOT a human. So did Z run ahead of God & it didn't take place? I gotta refresh on my history. Seems like it wasn't too long before they were back under Roman control. Must have disobeyed Him again pretty quickly. Will we ever learn?
God wants to live right in the middle of us - his temple. That's pretty awesome when you figure how we've ignored Him time and time again - going about our own projects (building up our houses)
ReplyDeleteBut pretty exciting how the whole remnant of God's people (1:12) began to obey the message from the Lord, and feared Him! They actually STOPPED and LISTENED!!! Yeah! Teach me from THAT! and then (14) the Lord sparked the enthusiasm (pour out Your Spirit Lord -- cuz we NEED enthusiasm!) and then He encouraged them (what a great God and King) He doesn't just order us around, but he sparks enthusiasm and encourages us! HE is our cheer leader!
Yes Chris - I thought the same thing -- don't be discouraged by the outward beauty of the temple, because the INWARD will be blessed with my physical God-became-flesh presence. It's like ourselves -- don't be discouraged if the outward is not as beautiful as you hope for, because if God is living in us, our bodies will be more beautiful than if we were beautiful only on the outside -- and (vs 6) it's true in both cases: I will bring peace!!
oh thanks Linda, that last paragraph was a great encourager & refocus for me!
ReplyDeleteActs 13/14 today remind me of Heb 12:15 where it says just a thistle or 2 can ruin a garden in no time.
ReplyDeleteThere was acceptance of The Message in the towns Paul/Barnabas went to BUT a whisper here, a misrepresentation there & soon the town threw them out or beat them up. Instead of studying things out for themselves, they listened to people & rejected the Truth.
Unfortunately, this is repeated over & over again today. Where ever Truth is presented satan always has people who are start rumors, talk behind people's back, incite jealousy, or just speak lies & twist the Bible to their own ideas.
Goes along real well with Pastor Mike's "Truish" series of sermons right now.
But when you're standing on The Bible, you don't have to back down, great encouragement in 13:46,47. We're just doing what God commanded. God's followers have always been the minority throughout history. But because they were following God & not man, God always blessed their efforts. They maybe lost their lives, but that was inconsequential to them. God was paramount.
14:21,22 Confirms this too. That's why Paul/Barnabas encouraged everyone. But gave them fair warning. "...urging them to stick with what they had begun to believe and not quit, making it clear to them that it wouldn't be easy: Anyone signing up for the kingdom of God has to go through plenty of hard times."
The nice thing is that Jesus has been through it all & knows how to comfort, strengthen us in each trial, even when they seem like they are gonna break us. He is enough.
13:1 the HOly Spirit said . . . I would love to hear the H.S. voice! I often feel directed and guided by Him, but how blessed to hear Him speak!
ReplyDeleteJealousy sure plays a huge part in Satan's tactics -- ya see it twice in today's reading, and you see it all around us today.
Saul/Paul -- so bold! Look at the boldness in 13:9,10. I believe that is God working again - as God was after the governor's heart, and He doesn't take it lightly when someone blocks that!
Apparently if the Sabbath had changed to Sunday in honor of the Lord's ressurection -- someone forgot to tell the disciples!! (13:14)
Lot of information about what happens when one dies in 13: 34 - 37.
I love the message of the gospel in 13:38-39 and what a great reaction! the people begged for more:)