Sounds like people were grumbling about supporting Paul! He was very eloquent; when he said "the only pay I need is to see you accept Him as your Savior! . . . I preach without pay, because the gospel can then be seen more clearly to be a gift!" Have you noticed how money so many times messes up relationships? Paul was willing to be supported by them, and if not -- he'd earn his own living. That kind of passion makes you WANT to explore what he's passionate about!
9:25 "They do it to win that laurel wreath (something like a spaghetti factory dinner) which will soon fade and die, while the prize we receive is the crown of eternal life which will last FOREVER!
Good counsel in 10: 7 "Don't slip into worshiping a god of your own making. and vs 10 "Don't grumble and complain, and finally vs 12 "don't become overly confident and think of yourselves as standing so firm that you can't fall (that reminded me of the sermon Saturday on Peter)
I love the promise of God's assistance in verse 13.
Finally, this is such a balanced view in my thinking: vs 33 "I try not to offend anyone in anything I do. I want to be as sensitive to others as I possibly can, not just doing what's good for me, but for others, so they may be drawn to Christ and be saved."
I liked how NLT put 10:13 "The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience..." It's easy to think we're the only one going thru something & satan wants us to think like that. But there are others & as we take God's out & conquer, we can encourage each other to do the same. So important for us to connect at a heart level in order to do that. We miss so much when we're superficial or unteachable.
Ohh, unteachable = unreachable. It just hit me & that's all the poetry I have in my system.
9:22 "...I try to find common ground with everyone, doing everything I can to save some." It's only as I listen to someone, that I'm able to find common ground with them. It's not when I approach them as their superior.
And then the last of v33 like you said Linda, not seeking what I want, but what's best for others, so that they may be saved. It's not about me, although I'm really good at making it that way. So glad God hasn't thrown in the towel on me yet!
Oh yeah, I have been that way too! That's why I can say it!
I'm bummed we're done with Genesis. There's so much more I want to know about these people. Can't wait til heaven when I can hear the stories 1st hand & get some blanks filled in.
I wonder if Jacob blessed the younger of Joseph's sons because of his own story or if that's what God impressed him to do.
Since the father's blessing was so huge in that culture, I wonder what Reuben, Levi & Simeon thought as they heard their histories brought up to them again. Those weren't really blessings they got. I always think of blessings as a positive thing.
In a way, I know it's important for sons today to get the blessing, the approval, from their fathers. They struggle in their God-given roles as head of the house without it.
It does seem like a repeat (the younger blessed over the older) I think it was God ordained/directed, as Jacob couldn't see well --
48:12 Joseph was so awed by the emotion in his father's words -- I wonder if Jacob was reserved in his words of love and affirmation. Maybe his "love language" was gifts (as in colorful coats)
I enjoyed reading Jacob's blessings -- it looks like the 3 oldest bullied their way to fame with strength and temper; but Judah had the respect of his brothers (remember that Judah was picked to tell Joseph the fam had arrived)
Simple things about the other brothers though, like: Zebulun loving the ocean, Issachar being a hard worker, Dan wanting badly to be a leader; Gad was a peacful man, Asher loved to farm, Naphtali loved the beauty of nature (he was going to be a forest ranger I think!) Benjamin was crafty -- and Joseph had blessing over blessing poured over him; but you know what? Joseph had lived a life of honesty, integrity, trust, willingness, generosity -- I'd say he deserved that blessing as evidenced in his spirit toward his brothers once dad died.
NLT didn't say anything about Joseph reacting to his father's words, just that he was upset in v17 that the younger had been blessed. Interesting, maybe Jacob was reserved in his emotions toward his children. Maybe after Joseph was gone? Didn't seem like he was before, since it was obvious to the others that Joseph was his favorite. Who knows?
For Saul, God gave him a new heart after he was anointed. But obviously, Saul chose not to follow after God with all his heart. The freedom of choice kicked in. So glad that God doesn't force obedience. It's our choice if we want to be saved or not, a daily choice.
I'm not sure what I would have done in Saul's place, seeing everyone around him unsure, Samuel not coming on time. I probably would have been antsy & may have done the same thing...sacrificed on my own. I know I am very impatient & want things done as I see fit. Especially if nothing is happening, it's so hard for me to wait for what I can't see. I have no clue what God is doing & I just feel like I'm in limbo until something pops.
Reminds me of the song "I will follow". I was thinking of those words yesterday & I think we all sing "if this life I lose" thinking it means physical death. But what if it's not? What if it's my dream of what I think I should do or where I should go? Will I still follow?
What about "where You stay, I'll stay"? I don't like to stay necessarily. I like to move. So impatient...so very impatient. (Big Sigh)
Interesting that Samuel mourned so much for Saul. Really shows his heart being wound up in what happened to people. He really cared about their hearts (salvation) & he knew where Saul was headed. Doesn't seem like God spared Samuel from knowing what was happening. I'm sure it gave him insight into the pain God must feel when we turn from Him. Really like seeing a leader's heart like that. We don't always get to look behind the scenes like that.
Boy Chris -- good comments on "I Will Follow" I'd never thought of it before -- that if this life I lose might be talking about our hopes and dreams! And -- yes, staying; waiting quietly for his plan to unfold - - - You make me think at a deeper level! So grateful for YOU!
and as long as we're talking songs, I think Samuel would have enjoyed the song "We Will Remember" in 12:7!! He takes them back to how the Lord fought for them, warned them.
I never noticed before that Samuel called for a thunderstorm as a sign from God.
Also -- Samuel, as Chris pointed out really loved his people - Saul included. This comes out in what I thought of as the "parent's prayer" in 12:23 "As for me, I'm not going to stop praying for you. I won't sin against the Lord and His people by brooding in disappointment over what you have done. I love you and will do all I can to help you and to teach you what is right" Doesn't that sound like something a parent would say?
Saul only made it through one year of humble kingship before it went to his head.
13:8 "This delay was a test of Saul's obedience and faith" How many times is delay a test for me?? "Where you stay, I'll stay!"
Wow -- the Philistines new how to control countries -- just take away their blacksmiths! During the civil war, they took away the roads; Today -- we'd take away their internet!!
I bet Jonathan and his armor bearer were the very best of friends. It seems that Jonathan was loved by everyone that came in contact with him. And what courage and faith he had! It is a shame that Saul messed it up for J to become king, because it sounds to me like he had excellent leadership qualities and trusted God with his very life. It was nice that God gave us this story about Jonathon's leadership and bravery and how very much the men surrounding him loved him.
14:35 "This was the first time Saul had ever built an altar to the Lord to express his thanksgiving" -- after all God had done for him! The first time to publicly show God gratitude? wow
15:21 -- aaaand Saul tries the blame game "the soldiers were the ones . . . sounds like the Adam and Eve trick (and, sigh -- the Linda trick many times!!)
vs 22 "It's our love and obedience that please Him, because that shows that we trust Him. I like how love comes before obedience -- to me, that says He wants an obedience that springs from a heart of love; what parent would not want it that way from their children?
Saul was mortified that Samuel would turn his back on the king in front of the people -- that's saying quite a bit for a "king" to fear public humiliation from God's man. vs 30
vs 33 -- Samuel must have been an old man when he struck down Agag. Agag was not only a cruel king, but he was also the visible evidence that Saul had failed to obey.
vs 35; Samuel and the Lord grieved over Saul - - how many stories does this reflect in earth's history?
Thought of the Third Day song again as I read 36:5 & on. Like the thought in v10 of justice for the honest in heart. Don't see that much here on earth. I admit I put a lot of the good things that will happen to God's faithful as happening when Jesus comes, not now. But yet, I know He is at work on behalf of His children. I see Him at work everyday, when I look up that is.
37:4 When I delight in God & knowing Him deeply, then He gives me the desires of my heart, which is to say, more of Himself. What woman wouldn't want to know more of her Lover & to be constantly in the Presence of One who delights in her? Especially when I look at what this world has to offer & it's so dingy in comparison.
I hadn't noticed before the wording of v6 "He will make your innocence radiate like the dawn, and the justice of your cause will shine like the noonday sun". He will defend me & vindicate me. I need to stop my feeble, frail & failing attempts. It goes back to the verse above it (5)...Trust Him, commit to Him. That is a constant choice for me. Doesn't come naturally, that's for sure.
I'm seeing/hearing so many things that are asking me to wait patiently. I am very hyperactive, spiritually speaking. Waiting has been optional in my spiritual life. And yet again in v7 "Be still in the presence of the Lord, and wait patiently for him to act". I only know how to be still AFTER I've climbed the mountain or AFTER I've driven to the ocean. He's asking me to be patient BEFORE I DO ANYTHING!!
Ever try to catch a piece of paper that's being blown around in a parking lot by a swirling wind? Kinda impossible, unless you can block it into a corner or something. I think God uses circumstances to block me in at times so I have to wait. Now doing it patiently is another conversation!
37:23 "The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives." Another look into a God that wants to be involved in every aspect of my life.
I was thinking that 38 was maybe written after David had sinned with Bathsheba & killed Uriah. What an incredible weight of guilt to carry. v8 says he is exhausted & completely crushed. Groaning from an anguished heart.
When you've been close with God & then do something to break that trust, that closeness, it weighs on you, pulls you down. Takes away your peace & affects your health. Look what it did to Christ on the cross.
I'm sure enemies of David were whispering (or maybe talking loudly) of their displeasure & starting all kinds of rumors. Wanting him out of office. Seems like what we do when we don't like our leaders, in the church, work or politics. We hope for their demise.
V15 - he's waiting for God to answer him (reminds me of Job). He's confessed his sin & is deeply sorry for what he has done v18. He doesn't want the relationship to end. He wants to repair it. Pleads with God to not abandon Him but to help Him. I've definitely been there.
The verse that spoke to me this am was 37:7, and you mentioned it too Chris! I liked the word pic of the paper in the parking lot -- I can relate.
"BE STILL before the Lord and WAIT patiently for Him to do things in His own time. God's time, not mine -- we live in a world that doesn't know, like, or tolerate waiting. I'm mixed up in those same feelings -- wanting things before they've had time to beautifully develop -- I can remember the disappointment as a child when I pulled open the bud of the iris (my favorite flower back then) to "help it along" and it looked awful! So are my feeble attempts at rushing through life -- I spoil the beauty of His unfolding plan. Lord help me to be more patient -- with myself, with others, with You!
Kinda felt left in the middle of a conversation with nothing resolved in today's reading. I did peek ahead & read 27 so I didn't stay hanging in the breeze, but I won't comment on it until next week :)
I read again in the book Dear Jesus. Check this out...
"I am calling you to walk with Me in holy trust. 'Holy' means 'set apart for sacred use'. Your primary purpose in this life is to be available for sacred use; ready to do My will. When you get so focused on your plans that you hardly see anything else, you are unavailable to Me."
Now really, if God asked you, would you tell Him, "oh, I'm sorry, I can't, I'm too busy or that day or that time doesn't work for me"? Not in a direct conversation maybe, but in my practical life of planning & schedules, I'd have to confess that I do this.
On the flip side, I can see how if some of my dreams/plans would have worked out, I wouldn't be available for some of the things He has me doing now.
So it must come down to a struggle of wills & trust. I want it this way or I think it should go down like.., vs whatever You want God, I'd like to help You in Your will. I trust You Jesus, You know what is best for me. Even if I don't get to... or am not considered for...
"[I] want to be free to respond to [Your] initiatives, joining in the things [You've] already set in motion." DJ pg 222-223
Man -- does DJ ever go for the juggler!! She nailed it once again; my book hasn't come yet, so ty for sharing it!
Short reading today -- both bildad and Job focused on the greatness of God; so as you say -- nothing seemed resolved.
Job asked Bildad in vs 4 "Whose spirit is coming out of your mouth?" I have to watch my mouth to make sure the spirit of discontent does not come out -- I have to ask God to take the spirit away from me, as I tend to want to complain and drag a situation down instead of lift it up. I think Job was feeling drug down in the dirt.
I like it when Job says in vs 14 "We hear only whispers of His greatness and see only shadows of what He has done" Reminds me of "eye has not seen nor ear heard . . ." If I could catch a glimpse of God or heaven, I KNOW the bright spots in this earth would be dusky dull. No wonder Moses asked to see His face. I know I don't comprehend the greatness of God.
I understand -- I have trouble in these spots too! Here's what I came up with
1:4 God knew us, selected us, and called us - - even before we were born. He knew where he could use ME in his grand scheme. Am I going to say (as Jeremiah did in vs 6 -- ah, you've got the wrong person?) Good to know that God can reassure even the most timid heart.
2:17 I've been reading a book about the minute by minute choices we make and how it can spin us up or spin us down -- maybe not immediately, but over the long term; that is what I see in this verse. "You've brought trouble on yourself! You left the Lord your God and the path along which He was leading you."
2:19 "Awe of me is no longer in your heart" I want to cultivate the "awe" of God daily in my heart -- I think distractions and fatigue, worldly glitz, worries -- all of those try to rob me of awe of God.
3:5 "you use my love for you to cover up all the evil you do" God is a God of Grace, but also He requires our whole heart of love and obedience (4:2). He knows we will fall -- that we can't, without His help, love completely -- but what He does want is in vs 12 "Return to me. . . I am full of compassion . . . acknowledge your guilt. Admit that you have sinned . . and I will bring you back home.
Being willing to surrender and turn with our whole heart . . . a daily discipline that leads to unending JOY!
4:4 "My discipline is like a fire that cannot be quenched until it does what it has been sent to do" Discipline is never fun -- but wouldn't it be wonderful to be freed from the weight of our burdens? We all have different burdens -- worries, guilt, greed, shame, pride - - you name it, I can relate to ALL of them! To be freed from ALL of THAT! Yet I still cringe to be disciplined - - to let the fire burn; I don't embrace discipline -- and did you notice that "disciple" and "discipline" are spelled quite similar???
Quite a change in Jerry from 1:6 "you know I can't speak well, I'm much to young for this" and 6:11 "I'm burning with zeal for you, Lord, and I can't hold it back any longer! What shall I do? Who will listen to me?" A-mazing what transformations the Lord can make in us if we let him use us!!!
I posted this & it was there. Then I logged out & came back & it was not. Maybe it'll stick this time.
thanks Linda, for bringing out those points. I like the thought about being in awe of God & how I get away from that. Also appreciate the thought about discipline. I too, fight against it.
Speaking of awe of God, the point that stood out to me about the reading today in Mark was in the feeding of the 5,000. The disciples were right there, involved in it, but it says in 6:50,51 that their hearts were too hard to understand that miracle. They didn't get it.
So I'm wondering what miracles I'm either involved in or that are happening around me & I'm missing them. Maybe I'm too wrapped up in my personal agenda to take significant notice or appreciate them as fully & deeply as I should.
To see God move in the heart of someone is an intense miracle. Who but God knows how long it has taken to get that individual to that specific place in time where they are ready to receive Him? I need to let that individual revel in what they are feeling, encouraging them to share or express their emotions about that time.
There's a pureness there & it takes me back to when I went thru that same thing. So it can be a time of renewal for me to, without interrupting or saying anything to take away from their current experience.
Reminds me of the story we heard last night of the breakthrough!! Gave me goose bumps!
Missing the miracles -- and probably the reason I'm missing them is that I'm so caught up in my agenda -- similar to the disciples caught up in the agenda of manipulating Jesus to be the next king. I need to remember to cooperate, not manipulate.
So I focused on chapter 5, and how the people in this chapter apply to me: the demon possessed men; Satan is constantly attacking me - - and I'm sure it's not just one demon, the spirit of discontent, the spirit of envy, the spirit of fear -- you name it. Yet the lesson is in vs 15; stay near to Jesus and vs 19 focus on how God has had compassion on you.
The townspeople -- how many times does Jesus comply with my wishes that He would not intrude on my life -- how many times do I miss out on the blessing of His presence because I have my own agenda. My version says in vs 18 "He had hoped that His ministry would help them to see that people were more important than pigs, but because He wasn't wanted . . . scarey thought -- not to want Jesus, but we all have to surrender our agenda's daily, hourly.
The parent -- begging Jesus to save his child; it looked like all hope was gone, but Jesus had a bigger plan - - he honored the parent's trust even though his faith was weak, because the father asked and hung in there.
The woman, worn out by her physical condition (sin), her one desire was in 28 "if I can only get close enough" THAT was her passion - - amazing faith -- she KNEW she'd be healed if she could get close enough - - Lord, create that passion in me, help me to realize how deadly my sin is.
Sounds like people were grumbling about supporting Paul! He was very eloquent; when he said "the only pay I need is to see you accept Him as your Savior! . . . I preach without pay, because the gospel can then be seen more clearly to be a gift!" Have you noticed how money so many times messes up relationships? Paul was willing to be supported by them, and if not -- he'd earn his own living. That kind of passion makes you WANT to explore what he's passionate about!
ReplyDelete9:25 "They do it to win that laurel wreath (something like a spaghetti factory dinner) which will soon fade and die, while the prize we receive is the crown of eternal life which will last FOREVER!
Good counsel in 10: 7 "Don't slip into worshiping a god of your own making. and vs 10 "Don't grumble and complain, and finally vs 12 "don't become overly confident and think of yourselves as standing so firm that you can't fall (that reminded me of the sermon Saturday on Peter)
I love the promise of God's assistance in verse 13.
Finally, this is such a balanced view in my thinking: vs 33 "I try not to offend anyone in anything I do. I want to be as sensitive to others as I possibly can, not just doing what's good for me, but for others, so they may be drawn to Christ and be saved."
I liked how NLT put 10:13 "The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience..." It's easy to think we're the only one going thru something & satan wants us to think like that. But there are others & as we take God's out & conquer, we can encourage each other to do the same. So important for us to connect at a heart level in order to do that. We miss so much when we're superficial or unteachable.
ReplyDeleteOhh, unteachable = unreachable. It just hit me & that's all the poetry I have in my system.
9:22 "...I try to find common ground with everyone, doing everything I can to save some." It's only as I listen to someone, that I'm able to find common ground with them. It's not when I approach them as their superior.
And then the last of v33 like you said Linda, not seeking what I want, but what's best for others, so that they may be saved. It's not about me, although I'm really good at making it that way. So glad God hasn't thrown in the towel on me yet!
man - did you ever hit the nail on the head saying that unteachable = unreachable. (guilty!)
ReplyDeleteOh yeah, I have been that way too! That's why I can say it!
ReplyDeleteI'm bummed we're done with Genesis. There's so much more I want to know about these people. Can't wait til heaven when I can hear the stories 1st hand & get some blanks filled in.
I wonder if Jacob blessed the younger of Joseph's sons because of his own story or if that's what God impressed him to do.
Since the father's blessing was so huge in that culture, I wonder what Reuben, Levi & Simeon thought as they heard their histories brought up to them again. Those weren't really blessings they got. I always think of blessings as a positive thing.
In a way, I know it's important for sons today to get the blessing, the approval, from their fathers. They struggle in their God-given roles as head of the house without it.
It does seem like a repeat (the younger blessed over the older) I think it was God ordained/directed, as Jacob couldn't see well --
ReplyDelete48:12 Joseph was so awed by the emotion in his father's words -- I wonder if Jacob was reserved in his words of love and affirmation. Maybe his "love language" was gifts (as in colorful coats)
I enjoyed reading Jacob's blessings -- it looks like the 3 oldest bullied their way to fame with strength and temper; but Judah had the respect of his brothers (remember that Judah was picked to tell Joseph the fam had arrived)
Simple things about the other brothers though, like: Zebulun loving the ocean, Issachar being a hard worker, Dan wanting badly to be a leader; Gad was a peacful man, Asher loved to farm, Naphtali loved the beauty of nature (he was going to be a forest ranger I think!) Benjamin was crafty -- and Joseph had blessing over blessing poured over him; but you know what? Joseph had lived a life of honesty, integrity, trust, willingness, generosity -- I'd say he deserved that blessing as evidenced in his spirit toward his brothers once dad died.
NLT didn't say anything about Joseph reacting to his father's words, just that he was upset in v17 that the younger had been blessed. Interesting, maybe Jacob was reserved in his emotions toward his children. Maybe after Joseph was gone? Didn't seem like he was before, since it was obvious to the others that Joseph was his favorite. Who knows?
ReplyDeleteFor Saul, God gave him a new heart after he was anointed. But obviously, Saul chose not to follow after God with all his heart. The freedom of choice kicked in. So glad that God doesn't force obedience. It's our choice if we want to be saved or not, a daily choice.
I'm not sure what I would have done in Saul's place, seeing everyone around him unsure, Samuel not coming on time. I probably would have been antsy & may have done the same thing...sacrificed on my own. I know I am very impatient & want things done as I see fit. Especially if nothing is happening, it's so hard for me to wait for what I can't see. I have no clue what God is doing & I just feel like I'm in limbo until something pops.
Reminds me of the song "I will follow". I was thinking of those words yesterday & I think we all sing "if this life I lose" thinking it means physical death. But what if it's not? What if it's my dream of what I think I should do or where I should go? Will I still follow?
What about "where You stay, I'll stay"? I don't like to stay necessarily. I like to move. So impatient...so very impatient. (Big Sigh)
Interesting that Samuel mourned so much for Saul. Really shows his heart being wound up in what happened to people. He really cared about their hearts (salvation) & he knew where Saul was headed. Doesn't seem like God spared Samuel from knowing what was happening. I'm sure it gave him insight into the pain God must feel when we turn from Him. Really like seeing a leader's heart like that. We don't always get to look behind the scenes like that.
Boy Chris -- good comments on "I Will Follow" I'd never thought of it before -- that if this life I lose might be talking about our hopes and dreams! And -- yes, staying; waiting quietly for his plan to unfold - - - You make me think at a deeper level! So grateful for YOU!
ReplyDeleteand as long as we're talking songs, I think Samuel would have enjoyed the song "We Will Remember" in 12:7!! He takes them back to how the Lord fought for them, warned them.
I never noticed before that Samuel called for a thunderstorm as a sign from God.
Also -- Samuel, as Chris pointed out really loved his people - Saul included. This comes out in what I thought of as the "parent's prayer" in 12:23 "As for me, I'm not going to stop praying for you. I won't sin against the Lord and His people by brooding in disappointment over what you have done. I love you and will do all I can to help you and to teach you what is right" Doesn't that sound like something a parent would say?
Saul only made it through one year of humble kingship before it went to his head.
13:8 "This delay was a test of Saul's obedience and faith" How many times is delay a test for me?? "Where you stay, I'll stay!"
Wow -- the Philistines new how to control countries -- just take away their blacksmiths! During the civil war, they took away the roads; Today -- we'd take away their internet!!
I bet Jonathan and his armor bearer were the very best of friends. It seems that Jonathan was loved by everyone that came in contact with him. And what courage and faith he had! It is a shame that Saul messed it up for J to become king, because it sounds to me like he had excellent leadership qualities and trusted God with his very life. It was nice that God gave us this story about Jonathon's leadership and bravery and how very much the men surrounding him loved him.
14:35 "This was the first time Saul had ever built an altar to the Lord to express his thanksgiving" -- after all God had done for him! The first time to publicly show God gratitude? wow
15:21 -- aaaand Saul tries the blame game "the soldiers were the ones . . . sounds like the Adam and Eve trick (and, sigh -- the Linda trick many times!!)
vs 22 "It's our love and obedience that please Him, because that shows that we trust Him. I like how love comes before obedience -- to me, that says He wants an obedience that springs from a heart of love; what parent would not want it that way from their children?
Saul was mortified that Samuel would turn his back on the king in front of the people -- that's saying quite a bit for a "king" to fear public humiliation from God's man. vs 30
vs 33 -- Samuel must have been an old man when he struck down Agag. Agag was not only a cruel king, but he was also the visible evidence that Saul had failed to obey.
vs 35; Samuel and the Lord grieved over Saul - - how many stories does this reflect in earth's history?
Hmm, some good thoughts Linda. I didn't realize about the T-storm either. Like the thoughts about Jonathan & parenting.
ReplyDeleteThought of the Third Day song again as I read 36:5 & on. Like the thought in v10 of justice for the honest in heart. Don't see that much here on earth.
ReplyDeleteI admit I put a lot of the good things that will happen to God's faithful as happening when Jesus comes, not now. But yet, I know He is at work on behalf of His children. I see Him at work everyday, when I look up that is.
37:4 When I delight in God & knowing Him deeply, then He gives me the desires of my heart, which is to say, more of Himself. What woman wouldn't want to know more of her Lover & to be constantly in the Presence of One who delights in her? Especially when I look at what this world has to offer & it's so dingy in comparison.
I hadn't noticed before the wording of v6 "He will make your innocence radiate like the dawn, and the justice of your cause will shine like the noonday sun". He will defend me & vindicate me. I need to stop my feeble, frail & failing attempts. It goes back to the verse above it (5)...Trust Him, commit to Him. That is a constant choice for me. Doesn't come naturally, that's for sure.
I'm seeing/hearing so many things that are asking me to wait patiently. I am very hyperactive, spiritually speaking. Waiting has been optional in my spiritual life. And yet again in v7 "Be still in the presence of the Lord, and wait patiently for him to act". I only know how to be still AFTER I've climbed the mountain or AFTER I've driven to the ocean. He's asking me to be patient BEFORE I DO ANYTHING!!
Ever try to catch a piece of paper that's being blown around in a parking lot by a swirling wind? Kinda impossible, unless you can block it into a corner or something. I think God uses circumstances to block me in at times so I have to wait. Now doing it patiently is another conversation!
37:23 "The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives." Another look into a God that wants to be involved in every aspect of my life.
I was thinking that 38 was maybe written after David had sinned with Bathsheba & killed Uriah. What an incredible weight of guilt to carry. v8 says he is exhausted & completely crushed. Groaning from an anguished heart.
When you've been close with God & then do something to break that trust, that closeness, it weighs on you, pulls you down. Takes away your peace & affects your health. Look what it did to Christ on the cross.
I'm sure enemies of David were whispering (or maybe talking loudly) of their displeasure & starting all kinds of rumors. Wanting him out of office. Seems like what we do when we don't like our leaders, in the church, work or politics. We hope for their demise.
V15 - he's waiting for God to answer him (reminds me of Job). He's confessed his sin & is deeply sorry for what he has done v18. He doesn't want the relationship to end. He wants to repair it. Pleads with God to not abandon Him but to help Him. I've definitely been there.
The verse that spoke to me this am was 37:7, and you mentioned it too Chris! I liked the word pic of the paper in the parking lot -- I can relate.
ReplyDelete"BE STILL before the Lord and WAIT patiently for Him to do things in His own time. God's time, not mine -- we live in a world that doesn't know, like, or tolerate waiting. I'm mixed up in those same feelings -- wanting things before they've had time to beautifully develop -- I can remember the disappointment as a child when I pulled open the bud of the iris (my favorite flower back then) to "help it along" and it looked awful! So are my feeble attempts at rushing through life -- I spoil the beauty of His unfolding plan. Lord help me to be more patient -- with myself, with others, with You!
oooo, I like that about the flower & spoiling the beauty of His plan. Good smack upside the head! :)
ReplyDeleteKinda felt left in the middle of a conversation with nothing resolved in today's reading. I did peek ahead & read 27 so I didn't stay hanging in the breeze, but I won't comment on it until next week :)
ReplyDeleteI read again in the book Dear Jesus. Check this out...
"I am calling you to walk with Me in holy trust. 'Holy' means 'set apart for sacred use'. Your primary purpose in this life is to be available for sacred use; ready to do My will. When you get so focused on your plans that you hardly see anything else, you are unavailable to Me."
Now really, if God asked you, would you tell Him, "oh, I'm sorry, I can't, I'm too busy or that day or that time doesn't work for me"? Not in a direct conversation maybe, but in my practical life of planning & schedules, I'd have to confess that I do this.
On the flip side, I can see how if some of my dreams/plans would have worked out, I wouldn't be available for some of the things He has me doing now.
So it must come down to a struggle of wills & trust. I want it this way or I think it should go down like.., vs whatever You want God, I'd like to help You in Your will. I trust You Jesus, You know what is best for me. Even if I don't get to... or am not considered for...
"[I] want to be free to respond to [Your] initiatives, joining in the things [You've] already set in motion." DJ pg 222-223
Man -- does DJ ever go for the juggler!! She nailed it once again; my book hasn't come yet, so ty for sharing it!
ReplyDeleteShort reading today -- both bildad and Job focused on the greatness of God; so as you say -- nothing seemed resolved.
Job asked Bildad in vs 4 "Whose spirit is coming out of your mouth?" I have to watch my mouth to make sure the spirit of discontent does not come out -- I have to ask God to take the spirit away from me, as I tend to want to complain and drag a situation down instead of lift it up. I think Job was feeling drug down in the dirt.
I like it when Job says in vs 14 "We hear only whispers of His greatness and see only shadows of what He has done" Reminds me of "eye has not seen nor ear heard . . ." If I could catch a glimpse of God or heaven, I KNOW the bright spots in this earth would be dusky dull. No wonder Moses asked to see His face. I know I don't comprehend the greatness of God.
I understand -- I have trouble in these spots too! Here's what I came up with
ReplyDelete1:4 God knew us, selected us, and called us - - even before we were born. He knew where he could use ME in his grand scheme. Am I going to say (as Jeremiah did in vs 6 -- ah, you've got the wrong person?) Good to know that God can reassure even the most timid heart.
2:17 I've been reading a book about the minute by minute choices we make and how it can spin us up or spin us down -- maybe not immediately, but over the long term; that is what I see in this verse. "You've brought trouble on yourself! You left the Lord your God and the path along which He was leading you."
2:19 "Awe of me is no longer in your heart" I want to cultivate the "awe" of God daily in my heart -- I think distractions and fatigue, worldly glitz, worries -- all of those try to rob me of awe of God.
3:5 "you use my love for you to cover up all the evil you do" God is a God of Grace, but also He requires our whole heart of love and obedience (4:2). He knows we will fall -- that we can't, without His help, love completely -- but what He does want is in vs 12 "Return to me. . . I am full of compassion . . . acknowledge your guilt. Admit that you have sinned . . and I will bring you back home.
Being willing to surrender and turn with our whole heart . . . a daily discipline that leads to unending JOY!
4:4 "My discipline is like a fire that cannot be quenched until it does what it has been sent to do" Discipline is never fun -- but wouldn't it be wonderful to be freed from the weight of our burdens? We all have different burdens -- worries, guilt, greed, shame, pride - - you name it, I can relate to ALL of them! To be freed from ALL of THAT! Yet I still cringe to be disciplined - - to let the fire burn; I don't embrace discipline -- and did you notice that "disciple" and "discipline" are spelled quite similar???
Quite a change in Jerry from 1:6 "you know I can't speak well, I'm much to young for this" and 6:11 "I'm burning with zeal for you, Lord, and I can't hold it back any longer! What shall I do? Who will listen to me?" A-mazing what transformations the Lord can make in us if we let him use us!!!
I posted this & it was there. Then I logged out & came back & it was not. Maybe it'll stick this time.
ReplyDeletethanks Linda, for bringing out those points. I like the thought about being in awe of God & how I get away from that. Also appreciate the thought about discipline. I too, fight against it.
Speaking of awe of God, the point that stood out to me about the reading today in Mark was in the feeding of the 5,000. The disciples were right there, involved in it, but it says in 6:50,51 that their hearts were too hard to understand that miracle. They didn't get it.
So I'm wondering what miracles I'm either involved in or that are happening around me & I'm missing them. Maybe I'm too wrapped up in my personal agenda to take significant notice or appreciate them as fully & deeply as I should.
To see God move in the heart of someone is an intense miracle. Who but God knows how long it has taken to get that individual to that specific place in time where they are ready to receive Him? I need to let that individual revel in what they are feeling, encouraging them to share or express their emotions about that time.
There's a pureness there & it takes me back to when I went thru that same thing. So it can be a time of renewal for me to, without interrupting or saying anything to take away from their current experience.
Reminds me of the story we heard last night of the breakthrough!! Gave me goose bumps!
ReplyDeleteMissing the miracles -- and probably the reason I'm missing them is that I'm so caught up in my agenda -- similar to the disciples caught up in the agenda of manipulating Jesus to be the next king. I need to remember to cooperate, not manipulate.
So I focused on chapter 5, and how the people in this chapter apply to me: the demon possessed men; Satan is constantly attacking me - - and I'm sure it's not just one demon, the spirit of discontent, the spirit of envy, the spirit of fear -- you name it. Yet the lesson is in vs 15; stay near to Jesus and vs 19 focus on how God has had compassion on you.
The townspeople -- how many times does Jesus comply with my wishes that He would not intrude on my life -- how many times do I miss out on the blessing of His presence because I have my own agenda. My version says in vs 18 "He had hoped that His ministry would help them to see that people were more important than pigs, but because He wasn't wanted . . . scarey thought -- not to want Jesus, but we all have to surrender our agenda's daily, hourly.
The parent -- begging Jesus to save his child; it looked like all hope was gone, but Jesus had a bigger plan - - he honored the parent's trust even though his faith was weak, because the father asked and hung in there.
The woman, worn out by her physical condition (sin), her one desire was in 28 "if I can only get close enough" THAT was her passion - - amazing faith -- she KNEW she'd be healed if she could get close enough - - Lord, create that passion in me, help me to realize how deadly my sin is.
that's exactly what I was thinking about...last night...when I wrote that.
ReplyDeleteSomehow, I knew you'd focus on 5. Really appreciated your comments.