I've been talking to you as though you were still babies in this Christian life. I can't talk to you as though you were filled with the Spirit.
Wow---I remember the days when I was a new Christian. I was told to memorize scripture and get into Bible study. After that the Lord surrounded me with people who led me into the Baptism of the Holy Spirit. That's how we receive power to live the life of a Christian and get into the deeper truths of God.
Here in 1 Cor. chapter 3, the Lord is rebuking those who haven't moved on into Spiritual things. Was God lying to us in Mark 16:17-18?
"17And these are the signs that follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues;.....
The Bible says this is what a Christian does. A 3rd of Jesus's ministry was casting out demons. And we're to pray without ceasing. (1 Thess 5:17) We can't pray without ceasing unless we have the gift of tongues. And how do we have effective intercessory prayer without the gift of tongues? With tongues, The Holy Spirit is doing the praying through us. Without that gift, our educated intellectual brains get in the way. (ICor.3:18-19
Chapter 4----We can't trust our own educated intellectual brains when we try to obey the Lord because we want to rationalize everything. That will cause us to miss the blessings of God. We need to obey what our master says and report the results. The number one hindrance to obedience to God is the paralyses of analyses (words I used to hear all the time as a new Christian)
Paul is fighting the age old battle of jealousy and concept (didn't Lucifer begin this battle in heaven?) "Your thinking and values are still a lot like the thinking and values of the world" boy that's true -- even in childhood, it's dog eat dog - "make the grade", "how do you measure up" world philosophy.
I like Paul's healthy view in 3:22 "We're not competitors, but each one is working in his own way for your good!"
and 4:3 "It doesn't matter to me what you think of me or how the church there judges me. I don't even try to judge myself . . . I'll let God decide." It reminds me of Jesus' refusal to put His trust in man. When God fills your life and changes your life - you are able to step past the demands, expectations, shame, or labels that man tries to put on you -- and you live in His presence.
4:5 "He'll bring to light what is done in darkness, including a man's motives" Here's where the rubber meets the road -- with God involved, there is no pretending, no masks, no airs -- He will judge the "real" us. there's nothing that we can hide - -
but, if I surrender to His Holy Spirit, let Him remake me; lean on Him for that change; I'll welcome Him into the very person He's worked so hard on to shape.
What if there was only 1 person that everyone needed to hear from to hear the Truth? Pretty sad for those who never heard? God, in His wisdom gives different gifts to different individuals to plant & water the seeds.
When we start to compare the things that God has used to bring us to Him & we make others feel like their walk is inferior because they didn't get the same gifts or receive the same instructions, we hurt God.
In His mercy He's created us differently & given different talents, gifts of the HS & personalities to each of us. It's to unify us, not pull us apart. We should encourage the different talents & gifts He's given each one of us instead of comparing ourselves to each other & creating levels of greatness. Judging each other & comparing ourselves amongst ourselves only displays the lack of growth in us.
We are God's workmanship, Paul says, we're His bldg. (3:9). It's God that grows us, not the planter or waterer. It's all God, not people. He's in charge of our spiritual growth & development. They are just there to help, not get in the way. We're the ones that keeps putting things or people in the way of God.
I didn't know I was causing anyone to feel inferior. These 9 gifts are available to all believers.
The very first line in 1 Corinthians 12:7-11 (where the 9 gifts of the Spirit are listed) says: “But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all:.."
The gifts of the Holy Spirit help and aid not only me or you in our own personal walk with the Lord, but many of them are also used to help other people when they have needs or circumstances arise in their lives.
The Bible tell us that these 9 gifts are available to all believers. And the Bible takes it one step further and tells us that we should actually try and stir up these gifts.
My intent wasn't to offend. I just always thought that after a believer asks the Lord into their life that the next step was to ask the Lord for the gifts. My comments weren't meant to sound arrogant---I just thought that all believers want to seek everything that the Lord has to offer.
No offense taken on my part Sher -- I'm all for understanding God's gifts from different angles, and it seems like there's always different angles when God deals with us! Like Jesus' stories and illustrations -- they can mean different things to different people, and bring a point home for one person -- and another point home for a different person.
We ALL have different viewpoints -- that's what makes this journey SO interesting.
But thank you for your explanations on how you view these gifts:) Hugs!
I wonder what Shelah was thinking as he was growing up & realizing that he was going to marry an older woman just to give his brother an heir. I wonder what the age difference was.
I am again reminded, as I read Joseph's story, about how important our decisions are when circumstances are against us. We can wallow in self pity or surrender to God what we can't control & refuse bitterness or self-preservation.
If Joseph had chosen those 2 things, how different the outcome would have been. He probably would have been killed by Potiphar. He probably would have slept with P's wife too. Who knows. Those 2 things can definitely lead us away from God.
I guess ultimately, it's impossible to control our circumstances. It causes too much stress & worry. Surrendering to God, gives us peace & strength. Again, totally contrary to human logic.
Sherrie, I didn't take your comments that way. I was referring to what Paul was saying about the divisions in the church & applying them to today & what I've seen.
I was trying to figure out why the story of Judah and Tamar was stuck right in the middle of Joseph's story? It's so filled with sadness to me - - so many people hurt and manipulated; and once again -- the disregard for women's rights.
Joseph -- at 17, he was a misfit; the family outcast (at least as far as his brother's were concerned) His trip to Egypt seems to have changed him.
I love 39:2 "Joseph determined to be faithful to the Lord no matter what, and the Lord was with him". and yeah -- he really did get a no matter what. I wonder if this is another Jobian story, except we don't see the Satan accuser like we see in Job. Accused (and I don't think the other servants or P believed P's wife at all -- I can just imagine them rolling their eyes and shaking their heads at her hissy fit), thrown in prison -- and still - - Joseph determined.
Yup -- it's the choices! and in order to make right choices, we have to determine before we get into the predicament. So those right choices come out of a heart of commitment that is put into place B4 the temptation.
(Apparently Judah hadn't made that commitment, as he was fooling around with the prostitutes!)
1:13 -- Naomi was putting her daughter-in-laws happiness ahead of her own. Maybe that's a clue why these girls loved her so very much.
Boaz has got to be one fine man. I like how he blesses his workers with joy! and then, he notices one poor woman at the end of the field. Sounds like everyone noticed her (vs 7) and then Boaz went out to here and talked to her, along with inviting her to lunch. I think he's simply being kind with no ulterior motives. He was way older than her, she was poor, a widow, a foreigner - - - nice guy
I got a bit more insight in this version as the the job of a kinsman-redeemer. 4:6 "If I bought it (the property) for her daughter-in-law, and when her first son was born it would belong to him. I would be paying for the property, onl to give it back"
Jesus is our kinsman-redeemer. He paid the price for our freedom, than gave that freedom back to us. He became our husband -- our kinsman redeemer; even though we are poor, foreigners, and in a helpless situation.
4:13 she was accepted by the townspeople as one of their own" and this is what heaven does for us through Jesus redemption - we're accepted; even though we are the ones that caused all the sacrifice.
In the lineage of David was the scandal of Tamar and Judah, and also the story of Ruth - a Moabite. God works with our weaknesses and brings out His plan.
Thanks for sharing those insights from Ruth. The thing that hit me was how much older Boaz was than Ruth & that just grossed me out. I did understand the kinsman-redeemer thing more from the NLT too.
In Psalms 27 is David talks about being surrounded by enemies, even attacked by them. I was thinking that our enemies aren't only physical or spiritual but also ourselves & the wrong habits/thought patterns we have developed. Those are definite enemies & they can surround & overwhelm us at times. We are under attack constantly, but God can break through anything, we just need to trust & ask Him.
David says (v3) he remains confident under attack, not fearful & stressed. As a warrior, you have to know your weapons & have confidence in them to work for you. I have to know God, not just intellectually, & know that He is going to defend me in order to have confidence & peace & not be afraid.
The only way you know your weapons won't fail you is to use them, not hide them in a closet until the big battle. They need to used so they're not rusted & frozen; you have to get familiar with any quirks of them & repair what is broken.
Same with God as our defender. We can just pull Him out of the prayer closet when the "big one" hits us. We need to be constantly walking with Him, learning the defects in us, our lack of faith/trust, & rely upon Him (use Him) in our daily small skirmishes so when something big side swipes us, we aren't blown off our foundation. We naturally turn to Him & remain calm.
I also like v8 which shows God calling to us to spend time with Him & listen to Him. I can so relate to David's heart responding, "Yes, I am coming". I just need some isolated, undistracted time with Him with no time constraints.
Wow! Job is actually having to plead with his friends to comfort him. He's kinda like a representation of Christ here. His family is gone, friends are gone & even his closest friends, the ones he thought he could count on in anything condemn him. He's all alone, kinda cut off in a way from any sympathy. He has only one glimmer of hope & he's hanging on with all he has when he says "I know my Redeemer lives". Incredible!
Is it just me or do you want to bust in on Zophar & tell him & his buddies to shut up & listen for once. They are all in the head & no heart. I felt like I wanted to bust some heads when I started reading his response. Such arrogance & self righteousness. I can see him all puffed out & bobbing around like a balloon in the wind. I want to stick a pin in him hear the POP!
Reminds me of the church at times. We see someone hurting & we start on them with doctrine & tell them to get their life straight & stop this & do this &..&...&. Jesus met the heart first. He told the paralytic that his sins were forgiven. That's as close as He came to doctrine. He didn't harp on him or Mary or anyone about what they'd done & what not to do. He just gave them hope. When you've been chewed up & spit out by people or circumstances that is what you need to take another step - hope.
They could tell He was listening to their heart & not judging them. They could see something that they hadn't seen in others. This is the kind of love that urges a response & they did respond.
If we could stop judging & swinging doctrine around like a overweight sword we have no control over (because it hasn't controlled us either) & present hope when we talk & interact with each other; then, THEN we might actually connect with people on a heart level & be able to point them to Jesus. Then there might be questions on Bible doctrine & who knows where it will lead.
Thanks Chris for the thought about using your weapons and not stashing them in the closet for the emergencies! I read Psalms yesterday, but didn't get to comment; they were very comforting to me -- David has a gift of speaking simply about human emotions.
Job really spells it out -- he's feeling abandoned and scored by everyone (I think Jesus had these same feelings on the cross) but He trusts in the Redeemer - He trusts in his understanding of what happens once his Master comes again and makes all things that are unfair, unhealthy, cruel, ugly, evil; HE will make things right. My Redeemer Lives -- what a battle cry from one so stomped down in the dirt.
I couldn't even read Zophar's Sermon -- past verse 3 where Zophar is all worried about his honor and reputation -- what a skunk. All worried about himself when Job is going through such tough times.
Hee hee Chris -- just read the balloon/pop comment! Loved it -- and yes, you are so right about how Jesus met people, bringing them hope not hurt -- so beautiful the way He carries us.
There's a song we've been singing on Tues nites. Part of the chorus says "You make everything glorious & I am Yours. What does that make me?" It's a rhetorical question.
I was thinking about it this week & the enemy was saying it's just a song, it's not Scripture so it's not true...among other things.
But here in 55:5 God says "...I, the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, have made you glorious." No wonder I was feeling like I didn't want to read Isaiah this morning! I'm glad I did.
Appreciated the reminder in 53 of how Christ was treated & attacked. Lies spread about Him, His background, His motives, everything twisted, when He was just seeking to reflect His Father. The more we seek a closer relationship with the Father, Jesus & the HS, the fiercer the attacks of the enemy.
So hard sometimes, to take my focus off of looking up & pick up the sword & start fighting to defend myself. Then I get overwhelmed easily & wonder what's happening, but if I hadn't picked up the sword in the first place....I am my own worst enemy sometimes!
Jesus just kept His focus & never thought of Himself. Never defended Himself...just His Father & His relationship with His Father. Great reminder for me.
And I was just thinking how satan started up persecution against the church BUT that just made the Message go farther & spread more as the disciples left Jerusalem.
Look back on your life & see if it isn't true in your life too. Maybe someone or something happened that hurt you & caused a shift, change or even a move from one thing, one location, one job, etc., to another. But didn't that open you up to new growth? Didn't that result in a positive thing once you stopped feeling sorry for yourself or mourning your loss?
I'm thinking of Joseph here. God just brought back some things to my mind about my life too & I can see that if such & such hadn't of happened...then I don't know if I'd be here in LV right now. I don't know...just thinking out loud.
O YEAH! I'm SO glad you are in Longview right now! I feel like it's been a real growth for me spiritual to process the Bible and spiritual matters with you Chris! You've sure been a BLESSING to me:):)
I think that is a HOOT how you were downplaying the glorious word from the song, and then God said -- "SEE! it's IS true -- it's right here in Isaiah 55!" Take THAT devil! My version says that He honors us (wow -- and we don't deserve it at all)
51:7 "Don't be afraid of what people say about you. Don't be hurt by their insults" I get hurt so easily -- I just have to center in Christ. in verse 8 He says "My power to save will last forvever" Yup - He's mighty to save!!
Random thought -- I've been listening to the CD you gave me Chris - while painting. I love the Esther song; and it reminds me of your thoughts on circumstances working to get the MESSAGE out. I have to listen to the song again - but I think Esther found that true!
vs 11 Everlasting Joy -- Joy that never ends; sounds too good to be true!
vs 16 "Ive covered you with the shadow of my hand" I think I want to live in that shadow today.
Half way through 53 and 54 -- I just keep wondering what Jesus thought as a young boy and man as he went over these texts again and again. Realizing what was spelled out for Him, but also -- the bigger picture, the joy and reward after the very tough road ahead.
55:1 -- He simply wants us to come
55:3 - - He simply wants us to listen (as opposed to talk!!)
55:6 - - He simply wants us to seek
So come, listen, seek; much easier to do in the shadow of His hand; again, my goal to day is to picture myself in that shadow; He will make everything glorious:):)
26:13 "This act of hers will always be part of the gospel story. . . it is an expression of her gratitude for being forgiven and healed". To me, this is OUR part of the gospel story -- the gratitude for what He's done. It must make His heart sing when we are grateful for His gift and don't take it for granted - - as if we deserve it for what we've done (yikes -- what an ugly trap we veer toward; salvation by works)
I am amazed at how gently Jesus reminds them at every turn that the countdown is on and what to expect. They really tune Him out; but He keeps reminding them.
In my version 26:39 has a beautiful twist: "please relieve me of this burden! The separation from you is almost unbearable!" I believe that IS what Jesus dreaded; separation from His Father -- you see it again when Jesus cries out, "Why have you forsaken me" There was no cry about pain, or it's not fair -- it was all about that separation.
"I know that your spirit is willing, but the body is weary and weak" If they HAD prayed, I wonder if Peter would have been so self-reliant (thinking of myself here). Maybe things would have turned out better for him.
Jesus meets his betrayers/accusers head on ("Come, I can hear the footsteps of my betrayer . . . Let's go meet them." reminds me of our discussion last night -- how it's better to meet the challenge head on, as opposed to skirting around to avoid it.
Ahhhhh -- there it is! "Put your sword away!" Those who fight with swords get killed with swords (my way ISN"T the best way) How many times have I thought of the put your sword away advice this week!!!
Also, in that same verse, Jesus said that yes, He could have called for the miracle at that time, but God had a bigger plan. I need to trust God's bigger plan when things don't go my way.
Peter ran back to the shack (O - I mean the garden in verse 75) -- he threw himself to the ground (just like the story last night)
Must have been pretty tense and revealing when Judas proclaimed Jesus' innocence and threw the blood money back at the priests. Their response (along with their response to the soldiers story at the end of our reading) shows how cold-blooded they were. It was all about jealousy, nothing about integrity. Scarey how low jealousy can send you.
I am Barabbas -- Jesus took my place.
I like the picture this version painted of Simon "who expressed sympathy for Jesus" and when ordered "he gladly did" I wonder if Simon knew of Jesus before this, or if he was just a compassionate man.
27:41 the scribes and elders scoffed at Him, "at His illegitimate birth, and at the claim of His mother's virginity" That must have been very difficult for Jesus -- to have his mother's reputation ground in the dirt because of Him; I see that as Satan's tactic to bring Him down.
I didn't remember reading before that Jesus met the women on the way back to the city (28:9, 10)
Go and tell that good news -- pretty clear that He wanted the news spread:)
I was thinking of how Judas heard Him say that He was going to be betrayed. Even when Jesus confirmed that Judas was the betrayer, Judas still pushed on headstrong in his plan. His plan was all about selfishness. Jesus' surrender to the Father's plan was all about selfLESSness & redemption.
I think since your version is a paraphrase, it's taking some liberties in destinations. But it is a paraphrase & the thought is interesting that Peter may have gone to the garden or that the women were headed to the city or Jesus was, whichever. Peter going back to the garden or shack is more interesting.
I was just thinking today, a lot actually, of how people's plans have "failed" because God had other ideas. If those dreams or plans had panned out...history could be different in many areas. Then came the thought...am I willing to "fail" in my dreams or plans to be part of the bigger picture, God's picture. Or will I fight tooth & nail for what I want. Fighting is very taxing!
I don't see (at least from this side of history) that God's way is cake either, but at least God is on my side. Esther maybe thought that her life was to be nice & easy for a change. And from what little we know, she probably deserved it. But then, confrontation is required, a huge risk is required.
A parade of people came to mind today as I thought about this concept. I know...maybe these people aren't all in the reading today. Just a lot of thinking going on.
I've been talking to you as though you were still babies in this Christian life. I can't talk to you as though you were filled with the Spirit.
ReplyDeleteWow---I remember the days when I was a new Christian. I was told to memorize scripture and get into Bible study. After that the Lord surrounded me with people who led me into the Baptism of the Holy Spirit. That's how we receive power to live the life of a Christian and get into the deeper truths of God.
Here in 1 Cor. chapter 3, the Lord is rebuking those who haven't moved on into Spiritual things. Was God lying to us in Mark 16:17-18?
"17And these are the signs that follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues;.....
The Bible says this is what a Christian does. A 3rd of Jesus's ministry was casting out demons. And we're to pray without ceasing. (1 Thess 5:17) We can't pray without ceasing unless we have the gift of tongues. And how do we have effective intercessory prayer without the gift of tongues? With tongues, The Holy Spirit is doing the praying through us. Without that gift, our educated intellectual brains get in the way. (ICor.3:18-19
Chapter 4----We can't trust our own educated intellectual brains when we try to obey the Lord because we want to rationalize everything. That will cause us to miss the blessings of God. We need to obey what our master says and report the results. The number one hindrance to obedience to God is the paralyses of analyses (words I used to hear all the time as a new Christian)
Paul is fighting the age old battle of jealousy and concept (didn't Lucifer begin this battle in heaven?) "Your thinking and values are still a lot like the thinking and values of the world" boy that's true -- even in childhood, it's dog eat dog - "make the grade", "how do you measure up" world philosophy.
ReplyDeleteI like Paul's healthy view in 3:22 "We're not competitors, but each one is working in his own way for your good!"
and 4:3 "It doesn't matter to me what you think of me or how the church there judges me. I don't even try to judge myself . . . I'll let God decide." It reminds me of Jesus' refusal to put His trust in man. When God fills your life and changes your life - you are able to step past the demands, expectations, shame, or labels that man tries to put on you -- and you live in His presence.
4:5 "He'll bring to light what is done in darkness, including a man's motives" Here's where the rubber meets the road -- with God involved, there is no pretending, no masks, no airs -- He will judge the "real" us. there's nothing that we can hide - -
but, if I surrender to His Holy Spirit, let Him remake me; lean on Him for that change; I'll welcome Him into the very person He's worked so hard on to shape.
What if there was only 1 person that everyone needed to hear from to hear the Truth? Pretty sad for those who never heard? God, in His wisdom gives different gifts to different individuals to plant & water the seeds.
ReplyDeleteWhen we start to compare the things that God has used to bring us to Him & we make others feel like their walk is inferior because they didn't get the same gifts or receive the same instructions, we hurt God.
In His mercy He's created us differently & given different talents, gifts of the HS & personalities to each of us. It's to unify us, not pull us apart. We should encourage the different talents & gifts He's given each one of us instead of comparing ourselves to each other & creating levels of greatness. Judging each other & comparing ourselves amongst ourselves only displays the lack of growth in us.
We are God's workmanship, Paul says, we're His bldg. (3:9). It's God that grows us, not the planter or waterer. It's all God, not people. He's in charge of our spiritual growth & development. They are just there to help, not get in the way. We're the ones that keeps putting things or people in the way of God.
well said:)
ReplyDeleteI didn't know I was causing anyone to feel inferior. These 9 gifts are available to all believers.
ReplyDeleteThe very first line in 1 Corinthians 12:7-11 (where the 9 gifts of the Spirit are listed) says: “But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all:.."
The gifts of the Holy Spirit help and aid not only me or you in our own personal walk with the Lord, but many of them are also used to help other people when they have needs or circumstances arise in their lives.
The Bible tell us that these 9 gifts are available to all believers. And the Bible takes it one step further and tells us that we should actually try and stir up these gifts.
My intent wasn't to offend. I just always thought that after a believer asks the Lord into their life that the next step was to ask the Lord for the gifts. My comments weren't meant to sound arrogant---I just thought that all believers want to seek everything that the Lord has to offer.
No offense taken on my part Sher -- I'm all for understanding God's gifts from different angles, and it seems like there's always different angles when God deals with us! Like Jesus' stories and illustrations -- they can mean different things to different people, and bring a point home for one person -- and another point home for a different person.
ReplyDeleteWe ALL have different viewpoints -- that's what makes this journey SO interesting.
But thank you for your explanations on how you view these gifts:) Hugs!
I wonder what Shelah was thinking as he was growing up & realizing that he was going to marry an older woman just to give his brother an heir. I wonder what the age difference was.
ReplyDeleteI am again reminded, as I read Joseph's story, about how important our decisions are when circumstances are against us. We can wallow in self pity or surrender to God what we can't control & refuse bitterness or self-preservation.
If Joseph had chosen those 2 things, how different the outcome would have been. He probably would have been killed by Potiphar. He probably would have slept with P's wife too. Who knows. Those 2 things can definitely lead us away from God.
I guess ultimately, it's impossible to control our circumstances. It causes too much stress & worry. Surrendering to God, gives us peace & strength. Again, totally contrary to human logic.
Sherrie, I didn't take your comments that way. I was referring to what Paul was saying about the divisions in the church & applying them to today & what I've seen.
ReplyDeleteI was trying to figure out why the story of Judah and Tamar was stuck right in the middle of Joseph's story? It's so filled with sadness to me - - so many people hurt and manipulated; and once again -- the disregard for women's rights.
ReplyDeleteJoseph -- at 17, he was a misfit; the family outcast (at least as far as his brother's were concerned) His trip to Egypt seems to have changed him.
I love 39:2 "Joseph determined to be faithful to the Lord no matter what, and the Lord was with him". and yeah -- he really did get a no matter what. I wonder if this is another Jobian story, except we don't see the Satan accuser like we see in Job. Accused (and I don't think the other servants or P believed P's wife at all -- I can just imagine them rolling their eyes and shaking their heads at her hissy fit), thrown in prison -- and still - - Joseph determined.
Yup -- it's the choices! and in order to make right choices, we have to determine before we get into the predicament. So those right choices come out of a heart of commitment that is put into place B4 the temptation.
(Apparently Judah hadn't made that commitment, as he was fooling around with the prostitutes!)
PS -- I can also understand the feelings of rejection that J's brothers felt when their father favored Joseph and gave him gifts.
ReplyDeleteThis rejection caused their jealousy, hatred, lying, greed. So -- I feel that Jacob had a big part in causing the family disunity.
1:13 -- Naomi was putting her daughter-in-laws happiness ahead of her own. Maybe that's a clue why these girls loved her so very much.
ReplyDeleteBoaz has got to be one fine man. I like how he blesses his workers with joy! and then, he notices one poor woman at the end of the field. Sounds like everyone noticed her (vs 7) and then Boaz went out to here and talked to her, along with inviting her to lunch. I think he's simply being kind with no ulterior motives. He was way older than her, she was poor, a widow, a foreigner - - - nice guy
I got a bit more insight in this version as the the job of a kinsman-redeemer. 4:6 "If I bought it (the property) for her daughter-in-law, and when her first son was born it would belong to him. I would be paying for the property, onl to give it back"
Jesus is our kinsman-redeemer. He paid the price for our freedom, than gave that freedom back to us. He became our husband -- our kinsman redeemer; even though we are poor, foreigners, and in a helpless situation.
4:13 she was accepted by the townspeople as one of their own" and this is what heaven does for us through Jesus redemption - we're accepted; even though we are the ones that caused all the sacrifice.
In the lineage of David was the scandal of Tamar and Judah, and also the story of Ruth - a Moabite. God works with our weaknesses and brings out His plan.
Thanks for sharing those insights from Ruth. The thing that hit me was how much older Boaz was than Ruth & that just grossed me out. I did understand the kinsman-redeemer thing more from the NLT too.
ReplyDeleteIn Psalms 27 is David talks about being surrounded by enemies, even attacked by them. I was thinking that our enemies aren't only physical or spiritual but also ourselves & the wrong habits/thought patterns we have developed. Those are definite enemies & they can surround & overwhelm us at times. We are under attack constantly, but God can break through anything, we just need to trust & ask Him.
David says (v3) he remains confident under attack, not fearful & stressed. As a warrior, you have to know your weapons & have confidence in them to work for you. I have to know God, not just intellectually, & know that He is going to defend me in order to have confidence & peace & not be afraid.
The only way you know your weapons won't fail you is to use them, not hide them in a closet until the big battle. They need to used so they're not rusted & frozen; you have to get familiar with any quirks of them & repair what is broken.
Same with God as our defender. We can just pull Him out of the prayer closet when the "big one" hits us. We need to be constantly walking with Him, learning the defects in us, our lack of faith/trust, & rely upon Him (use Him) in our daily small skirmishes so when something big side swipes us, we aren't blown off our foundation. We naturally turn to Him & remain calm.
I also like v8 which shows God calling to us to spend time with Him & listen to Him. I can so relate to David's heart responding, "Yes, I am coming". I just need some isolated, undistracted time with Him with no time constraints.
Wow! Job is actually having to plead with his friends to comfort him. He's kinda like a representation of Christ here. His family is gone, friends are gone & even his closest friends, the ones he thought he could count on in anything condemn him. He's all alone, kinda cut off in a way from any sympathy. He has only one glimmer of hope & he's hanging on with all he has when he says "I know my Redeemer lives". Incredible!
ReplyDeleteIs it just me or do you want to bust in on Zophar & tell him & his buddies to shut up & listen for once. They are all in the head & no heart. I felt like I wanted to bust some heads when I started reading his response. Such arrogance & self righteousness. I can see him all puffed out & bobbing around like a balloon in the wind. I want to stick a pin in him hear the POP!
Reminds me of the church at times. We see someone hurting & we start on them with doctrine & tell them to get their life straight & stop this & do this &..&...&. Jesus met the heart first. He told the paralytic that his sins were forgiven. That's as close as He came to doctrine. He didn't harp on him or Mary or anyone about what they'd done & what not to do. He just gave them hope. When you've been chewed up & spit out by people or circumstances that is what you need to take another step - hope.
They could tell He was listening to their heart & not judging them. They could see something that they hadn't seen in others. This is the kind of love that urges a response & they did respond.
If we could stop judging & swinging doctrine around like a overweight sword we have no control over (because it hasn't controlled us either) & present hope when we talk & interact with each other; then, THEN we might actually connect with people on a heart level & be able to point them to Jesus. Then there might be questions on Bible doctrine & who knows where it will lead.
Thanks Chris for the thought about using your weapons and not stashing them in the closet for the emergencies! I read Psalms yesterday, but didn't get to comment; they were very comforting to me -- David has a gift of speaking simply about human emotions.
ReplyDeleteJob really spells it out -- he's feeling abandoned and scored by everyone (I think Jesus had these same feelings on the cross) but He trusts in the Redeemer - He trusts in his understanding of what happens once his Master comes again and makes all things that are unfair, unhealthy, cruel, ugly, evil; HE will make things right. My Redeemer Lives -- what a battle cry from one so stomped down in the dirt.
I couldn't even read Zophar's Sermon -- past verse 3 where Zophar is all worried about his honor and reputation -- what a skunk. All worried about himself when Job is going through such tough times.
Hee hee Chris -- just read the balloon/pop comment! Loved it -- and yes, you are so right about how Jesus met people, bringing them hope not hurt -- so beautiful the way He carries us.
ReplyDeleteThere's a song we've been singing on Tues nites. Part of the chorus says "You make everything glorious & I am Yours. What does that make me?" It's a rhetorical question.
ReplyDeleteI was thinking about it this week & the enemy was saying it's just a song, it's not Scripture so it's not true...among other things.
But here in 55:5 God says "...I, the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, have made you glorious." No wonder I was feeling like I didn't want to read Isaiah this morning! I'm glad I did.
Appreciated the reminder in 53 of how Christ was treated & attacked. Lies spread about Him, His background, His motives, everything twisted, when He was just seeking to reflect His Father. The more we seek a closer relationship with the Father, Jesus & the HS, the fiercer the attacks of the enemy.
So hard sometimes, to take my focus off of looking up & pick up the sword & start fighting to defend myself. Then I get overwhelmed easily & wonder what's happening, but if I hadn't picked up the sword in the first place....I am my own worst enemy sometimes!
Jesus just kept His focus & never thought of Himself. Never defended Himself...just His Father & His relationship with His Father. Great reminder for me.
And I was just thinking how satan started up persecution against the church BUT that just made the Message go farther & spread more as the disciples left Jerusalem.
ReplyDeleteLook back on your life & see if it isn't true in your life too. Maybe someone or something happened that hurt you & caused a shift, change or even a move from one thing, one location, one job, etc., to another. But didn't that open you up to new growth? Didn't that result in a positive thing once you stopped feeling sorry for yourself or mourning your loss?
I'm thinking of Joseph here. God just brought back some things to my mind about my life too & I can see that if such & such hadn't of happened...then I don't know if I'd be here in LV right now. I don't know...just thinking out loud.
O YEAH! I'm SO glad you are in Longview right now! I feel like it's been a real growth for me spiritual to process the Bible and spiritual matters with you Chris! You've sure been a BLESSING to me:):)
ReplyDeleteI think that is a HOOT how you were downplaying the glorious word from the song, and then God said -- "SEE! it's IS true -- it's right here in Isaiah 55!" Take THAT devil! My version says that He honors us (wow -- and we don't deserve it at all)
51:7 "Don't be afraid of what people say about you. Don't be hurt by their insults" I get hurt so easily -- I just have to center in Christ. in verse 8 He says "My power to save will last forvever" Yup - He's mighty to save!!
Random thought -- I've been listening to the CD you gave me Chris - while painting. I love the Esther song; and it reminds me of your thoughts on circumstances working to get the MESSAGE out. I have to listen to the song again - but I think Esther found that true!
vs 11 Everlasting Joy -- Joy that never ends; sounds too good to be true!
vs 16 "Ive covered you with the shadow of my hand" I think I want to live in that shadow today.
Half way through 53 and 54 -- I just keep wondering what Jesus thought as a young boy and man as he went over these texts again and again. Realizing what was spelled out for Him, but also -- the bigger picture, the joy and reward after the very tough road ahead.
55:1 -- He simply wants us to come
55:3 - - He simply wants us to listen (as opposed to talk!!)
55:6 - - He simply wants us to seek
So come, listen, seek; much easier to do in the shadow of His hand; again, my goal to day is to picture myself in that shadow; He will make everything glorious:):)
oh yeah...that hurt text. It's so true in me too. Nice thought about the shadow of His hand. I wanna sit there too.
ReplyDeleteBtw it was Satan saying to to me, not me. I was listening tho...my weakness.
ReplyDelete26:13 "This act of hers will always be part of the gospel story. . . it is an expression of her gratitude for being forgiven and healed". To me, this is OUR part of the gospel story -- the gratitude for what He's done. It must make His heart sing when we are grateful for His gift and don't take it for granted - - as if we deserve it for what we've done (yikes -- what an ugly trap we veer toward; salvation by works)
ReplyDeleteI am amazed at how gently Jesus reminds them at every turn that the countdown is on and what to expect. They really tune Him out; but He keeps reminding them.
In my version 26:39 has a beautiful twist: "please relieve me of this burden! The separation from you is almost unbearable!" I believe that IS what Jesus dreaded; separation from His Father -- you see it again when Jesus cries out, "Why have you forsaken me" There was no cry about pain, or it's not fair -- it was all about that separation.
"I know that your spirit is willing, but the body is weary and weak" If they HAD prayed, I wonder if Peter would have been so self-reliant (thinking of myself here). Maybe things would have turned out better for him.
Jesus meets his betrayers/accusers head on ("Come, I can hear the footsteps of my betrayer . . . Let's go meet them." reminds me of our discussion last night -- how it's better to meet the challenge head on, as opposed to skirting around to avoid it.
Ahhhhh -- there it is! "Put your sword away!" Those who fight with swords get killed with swords (my way ISN"T the best way)
How many times have I thought of the put your sword away advice this week!!!
Also, in that same verse, Jesus said that yes, He could have called for the miracle at that time, but God had a bigger plan. I need to trust God's bigger plan when things don't go my way.
Peter ran back to the shack (O - I mean the garden in verse 75) -- he threw himself to the ground (just like the story last night)
Must have been pretty tense and revealing when Judas proclaimed Jesus' innocence and threw the blood money back at the priests. Their response (along with their response to the soldiers story at the end of our reading) shows how cold-blooded they were. It was all about jealousy, nothing about integrity. Scarey how low jealousy can send you.
I am Barabbas -- Jesus took my place.
I like the picture this version painted of Simon "who expressed sympathy for Jesus" and when ordered "he gladly did" I wonder if Simon knew of Jesus before this, or if he was just a compassionate man.
27:41 the scribes and elders scoffed at Him, "at His illegitimate birth, and at the claim of His mother's virginity" That must have been very difficult for Jesus -- to have his mother's reputation ground in the dirt because of Him; I see that as Satan's tactic to bring Him down.
I didn't remember reading before that Jesus met the women on the way back to the city (28:9, 10)
Go and tell that good news -- pretty clear that He wanted the news spread:)
I was thinking of how Judas heard Him say that He was going to be betrayed. Even when Jesus confirmed that Judas was the betrayer, Judas still pushed on headstrong in his plan. His plan was all about selfishness. Jesus' surrender to the Father's plan was all about selfLESSness & redemption.
ReplyDeleteI think since your version is a paraphrase, it's taking some liberties in destinations. But it is a paraphrase & the thought is interesting that Peter may have gone to the garden or that the women were headed to the city or Jesus was, whichever. Peter going back to the garden or shack is more interesting.
I was just thinking today, a lot actually, of how people's plans have "failed" because God had other ideas. If those dreams or plans had panned out...history could be different in many areas. Then came the thought...am I willing to "fail" in my dreams or plans to be part of the bigger picture, God's picture. Or will I fight tooth & nail for what I want. Fighting is very taxing!
I don't see (at least from this side of history) that God's way is cake either, but at least God is on my side. Esther maybe thought that her life was to be nice & easy for a change. And from what little we know, she probably deserved it. But then, confrontation is required, a huge risk is required.
A parade of people came to mind today as I thought about this concept. I know...maybe these people aren't all in the reading today. Just a lot of thinking going on.