7:10 sounds to me like if there is a separation or divorce (and I'm not talking about the case of abuse here) the two options are to remain single or be reconciled to the former spouse.
If that were really the case (seems like a lot of people get divorced because they've fallen in love with someone else, or they've fallen out of love with their present spouse) I wonder if the # of divorces would go down? What do you guys think?
Seems like the call here from Paul (and he keeps alluding to the persecution happening or that will happen) is (24) "in whatever place in life Christ found you, stay there for now, for God is with you." I think that's good advice if you're unsure - - stay put and pray for the next step. I can't imagine how confusing it would be to live through a time of persecution. I wonder if I would stand or cave? Guess I won't know until it happens, but I believe God will prepare me if I'm willing -- and as it says above, He'll be with me:)
7:29-31 is warning not to get attached and consumed by temporary things. And actually -- sounds like even family relations might be considered temporary in light of the persecution.
Here's the kernel: vs 32 "My concern is that you be as free from worry and problems as possible.
The CW made the food to idols topic more clear to me. Here's what it says: 8:7 "Some in your congregation still believe that idols can influence their lives for good or bad. It takes time to get over this. So naturally they'll hesitate to eat food offered to idols because when they do so, they feel that the idol will control them." I always thought eating the food was a form of worship, but from this version -- it sounds like it's a form of internalizing that idol and giving them control of your life.
I had a class once where the teacher said that some of these "traditions" like food to idols -- whether it was right or wrong -- depended on how your choice affected the people around you. That comes out in verse 11 "If you use your freedom and knowledge to teach your brother to ignor his conscience, and he does so, you're weakening his faith" You know -- I can see Jesus going along with some of man's traditions when He was here on earth - - even though those traditions didn't hold water in Heaven's eyes. But He would do everything in His power to connect with us, and move us closer to the truth.
Joseph knew he had changed & grown. He needed to see if his brothers had done the same. I'm sure he was praying & asking God what to do & how to know.
The brothers obviously had changed as well. I can imagine the condemnation, guilt & fear they had when Joseph revealed himself.
What Joseph says in 45:5-8 shows how much he had opened his heart to God. He had stopped fighting & was following. In order for him to be placed in the position he was...the changed had to have occurred way before. Otherwise, the power would have corrupted him.
I need to learn to follow in the small, humble things God puts in my way. If He has something greater, so be it. But to be faithful in the least (like the parable says), means I will be faithful in the great.
I think I'm learning right now where I'm fighting. And hopefully, I will continue to choose to follow instead. I trust You, Jesus.
The brothers all headed back to Egypt, even though the steward sad the rest of you can go free. Good to see them sticking by Ben, even though -- it could mean their own death or enslavement (remembering they had families and a father to support back home).
Judah takes a prominent role in the defense -- Judah was the one back in 37:26 that suggested selling Joseph. Judah must have been a leader, so it is good that he had a heart change. Positive leadership can influence and ripple out to all around. Notice that it was Judah that Jacob chose to ride ahead and let Joseph know that they'd arrived:)
Boy those brothers must have been TENSE when Joseph sent everyone out and then started crying so loud. I can only imagine the fear that gripped their hearts as they tried to figure out what was going on!
45:5 I just read this philosophy last night "you can't change the past, but you CAN change what happens in the future" Joseph seems to have bought into that when he tells them to stop condemning themselves over what they did in a fit of anger. and how gracious Jo was to tell them that God was the one to have sent him there. It's true -- some of our greatest blunders, God uses for his glory! He brings beautiful color out of our ugliest tints.
Nice that Jacob stopped (46:1) and worshiped God in the good times, the time when he was no doubt in a hurry to see his dreams fulfilled (seeing Jo). He stopped and worshiped and gave thanks. God honored Jacob's pausing to worship by speaking and reassuring him. How much we miss by moving on at a fast pace and not stopping to connect with Him.
Linda said:---"7:10 sounds to me like if there is a separation or divorce (and I'm not talking about the case of abuse here) the two options are to remain single or be reconciled to the former spouse."
Wow---I've been divorced 4 times and let me tell you I could write a book on this subject. I've been slandered, abused and bullied by so many Christians concerning my marriages that I still don't trust people that call themselves "Christian". I find there is so much Hypocrisy in many Christian marriages--- the state of pretending there is nothing evil going on in the marriage and the state of denial concerning sexual abuse of children, extra-marital affairs, etc etc---that I don't understand the ability to continue to live a "lie". My only experience with Seventh Day Adventists before I attended this church was with a male Physician. I was referred to him as a patient. After a few yrs, this married man and father would call me and tell me he was leaving the office and needed to stop by my house.
Hey Sher -- how does 7:10 read in your version about divorce? I'm still trying to figure it all out. I think there are some very legitimate reasons to divorce -- including the abuse and bullying that you talked about - - and infidelity.
The divorce that I think Paul is referring to here is about people not "feeling" in love anymore, or "falling in love with someone else" when they've committed themselves already to their marriage partner. I believe that marriage is a very serious commitment and takes daily choices of loyalty. Sometimes I think our world views marriage more as an optional choice, like - - - stay married unless something better comes along.
I believe that marriage is a blood covenant between you, God and your partner. There is the shedding of blood when a virgin has her first sexual encounter with her husband. God takes blood covenants very seriously and they should not be broken. (if possible)
However,--with that said--When I was divorced, I encountered shame, guilt and condemnation from the church. Divorced people are already in pain and I don't believe the church needs to add to that. There is an old saying---"Please don't shoot me, I'm already wounded."
I was in so much pain that I finally cried out to the Lord and told God I hated His people. He said to me---Who is the accuser of the brethren? I answered Satan. The Lord asked me if it was His people who would accuse me and hurt me more? He said to me-- What are the signs of those who believe? Luke 16:17-- They will cast out demons in my name, and they will speak in new languages. Are these the people who are accusing you? I answered Him, NO. He said not everyone who says to me Lord, Lord will enter into the Kingdom of Heaven. You will not find your accusers there.
And again, I must stop at the moment---But I am still not finished.
I wonder why, after the ark had been returned to Israel that Samuel didn't have it brought to Bethel?
Samuel's sons didn't fear God, they were greedy. Was that because of Samuel's parenting or was it their choice? The Bible doesn't say. I like to think Samuel had learned something from watching what Eli didn't do & how that displeased God. And after reading what I just wrote I realize we always have to make a choice for ourselves. Can't blame it on others or our parents. We are responsible for the choices we make.
The way God worked with Saul, gave him a new heart, gave him all those signs. How encouraging! I also am thankful for the freedom of choice. The test that is coming. God never forces us to follow Him. He wants an undivided heart.
I like how Samuel went to God for guidance when he felt like the people were rejecting him. He didn't have a pity party. He sought out God. Great example.
Somehow, I'm not real thrilled with the thought of gold tumors and rats!!
The contrast between the people of Beth Shemesh that continued their wicked ways and left the Ark out in the rain, and the people of Kiriath Jearim that loved the Lord and knew that His presence would be a blessing was interesting. I wonder why the ark was not taken back to the temple?? It sounded like in 10:25 that they had a "sanctuary"
Here I raise my Ebenezer -- I remember someone asking me what a Ebenezer was!! I love the name behind the name, "The Lord helped us before and He will help us again" The Israelites had just seen God in action. It wasn't an old story about Egypt, it was their story with the Philistines. I was thinking about a modern day application -- a WWII application, picturing myself surrounded by Hitler's troops. I can imagine raising an Ebenezer after being rescued by God.
I thought it was interesting that the King would demand the tithe off 8:15 tax you a tenth of your increase. Did those faithful to God give a tithe to the King and a tithe to the temple/God? It would be interesting to know. Anyway, the description of the king's requirements sounded suspiciously like a countries government. It'd be pretty cool not to have a government, but to be ruled by God - wouldn't it? Think of everyone paying tithe to God (no earthly tax), living by His rules, and being under His protection. Bother -- we've messed up a pretty good plan, wouldn't you say?
I spent some time trying to figure out the 3 signs Saul came across on his way home:
1) your donkeys have been found: God will take care of your emotional worries and concerns. 2) 2 loaves of bread: God will take care of your physical needs. 3) the Spirit of the Lord will come on you . . . the Lord will open your mind: God will take care of your spiritual needs and guide you.
Very cool that God gave Saul the "gift of leadership" and that he'd be a changed person! Yet Saul was still humble; hiding from the responsibility and being willing to wait for God's timing - - very cool.
Also -- I liked that God chose him for his compassion, in Samuel's words,"we need to talk some more about what's really on your heart (9:19) Vs 25 tells us that "In his heart Saul had been very much concerned about his country" On the other hand -- humans had only the right "look" in mind when it came to a king: (10:24) "no other man like him in all of Israel -- tall, strong and handsome"
One final thought: Saul must not have had the pre-reqs for being a prophet. But a wise man standing nearby (vs 12) pointed out that the important thing is that they've been called by the spirit of the Lord" Pre-reqs don't matter in God's eyes -- He can use, change, equip any of us if we remain open.
33:10,11 says that God frustrates the plans of nations & frustrates all their schemes. Sometimes I feel like he does that with me too. But it's because His plans can't be changed or frustrated. And I'm always happier in the end as I stop fighting & just relax & follow where He's leading.
I think the frustrating part is that I know where I was headed, but I can't see where He's headed & I wanna know! Well...sometimes I do. I think if I knew all the time, I definitely wouldn't want to go. Like I said tho, it's always better for me in the end.
I like the reminder at the end of 33 that my only true hope is in God alone.
34 reminded me of what Job's friends are saying. The good people are always blessed, the bad people are always punished. I can see saying this when things are going well for me, but if I'm in Job's position, I'd have to say it's not going to happen until Jesus comes. The trick for me is to not be quick to judge others if they are going thru a trying period in their life. To encourage them as God is putting them thru the furnace to purify them or whatever He is doing. Don't add to their misery.
33:4 & 5 The words of the Lord are dependable; He is faithful . . . the earth is full of His constant care. Who wouldn't want a ruler like that? Forget flashy and charisma -- give me dependablility, faithfulness, constant care!
vs 18 "The Lord's eye is on those who honor HIm, who place their hope in HIs love and trust themselves to His care. That's a daily discipline - - as I tend to place my hope in what I can see; I tend to trust myself to my own plans - - it's my natural human bend - - and it's so flimsy. Strength, confidence and peace come from His ruling my life! What a beautiful thought to know that He is watching me; awesome to think that He knows everything about me, even my ugly bent, motives, thoughts -- and He still loves me.
I was wondering if 18 - 20 was speaking of Jesus crucifixion? What got me to thinking was in 20 where it said not one of his bones will be broken? Maybe 18 and 19 was written for encouragement for his followers? and us today as well -- who has experienced being brokenhearted and crushed?
Yes -- 35 reminds me of Job's life -- and Jesus life too.
And now please, please allow me to interrupt the schedule one more time to finish the thoughts about divorce and remarriage.
I didn't need anyone to point out to me I had sinned by marrying 4 times--- I was already aware that I was a believer who needed healing. What I needed and what I received was the favor and mercy of God.
The Gospel of Christ is supposed to be such good news that it's almost too good to be true. It borders on the realm of fantasy, it's that good. And the goodness of God allowed me to receive His favor and mercy and to believe Him for the outrageous.
Linda said: "Sometimes I think our world views marriage more as an optional choice, like - - - stay married unless something better comes along."
I believe that if today's church displayed the outrageous power and favor of God, then believers wouldn't be concerned with following the ways of the world. We would be consumed with the Spirit of God.
Job refuses to allow his friends to misrepresent the character of his friend God. Obviously, Job has spent some time with God, he wasn't content to be spoon fed by the current belief system, but went way deeper; developed an actual relationship.
This is shown by what he says in 23:4-6 & the confidence displayed in v10,11. Job treasured his time with God more than his food (v12). That's how important his friendship was. Nothing could come between it.
He also knows the majesty & power of God, his closeness has not decreased his respect & worship of the Almighty; it has deepened it. In v13,14, Job acknowledges the power of God by saying who can change His mind? "...So He will do to me whatever He has planned. He controls my destiny." I don't see this as futile resignation. I see it as confident surrender. "This is what's best for me, surrender. I am at peace now, because He is in charge."
The end of 23 shows that Job is human too. He would love to know the plan. The awesome power of God & what He could do can be terrifying, especially when you know you've done all you could do & yet God is still allowing affliction. Why? It would definitely depress me if I were in Job's place. I can relate to the flipping back & forth shown here.
Why then (24) does the wicked get away? I can think of a LOT of people that should be punished, but they get off with nothing & I can think of a LOT of innocent people who get the shaft. Why? What's God up to? Why doesn't He act like I think He should right now?
I go back to Job's statement in 23:5 "...I would listen to His reply and understand what He says to me". God doesn't have to explain His actions to me. But when He does speak, I am silenced & can only be in awe of His wisdom & purpose driven decisions.
Makes me think of what I read today in Dear Jesus. This is Jesus speaking: "Walk with Me in holy trust, responding to My initiatives rather than trying to make things fit your plans."
Looked up initiative & like this definition: A beginning or introductory step; an opening move
Wow Chris -- what a GREAT quote from Dear Jesus -- especially tied in with the meaning of initiative!
I also liked your comparison of resignation and surrender. Surrender is positive; it's a choice - - we're willing putting our lives in His hands; really good.
I liked 23:5 too -- "I want to know HIs answers, and I would carefully consider what He had to say." Job didn't want to know God's answers so he could argue them down, change God's mind -- He wanted understanding. But Job had such a beautiful picture of God in vs 6 & 7 "He would graciously listen to everything I say. In His presence a man can present his case" Job had no fear of God -- God graciously listening to man -- that paints such a picture for me; especially when you consider how many of us there are and only one Sovereign God!!
Job goes back over his life: "I have always tried to keep His commandments and have treasured His word more than my daily bread" To me, this is once again a picture of resignation vs surrender. Job doesn't follow God's commands out of resignation with gritted teeth -- rather, he treasures God's ways, as Chris said, even more than physical food. This is a picture of a deep friendship between Job and God.
It is easy for me to feel betrayed by earthly friends; if they turn their back on me, I way too easily write them off. Job shows me a picture of grace towards God, his best Friend -- giving Him always the benefit of the doubt; never writing Him off -- but instead, trying to understand the big picture, the whole situation. I believe I need to be more gracious to people around me and always leave the results of friendships to God.
I feel I'm on this earth to grow and allow the Lord to change me. Sometimes I screw up and I allow another person to become my God and I look to them for feedback. Or I look to them to fill the emptiness inside of me. I allow them to control me and try to change me. That's not what God wants.
I can't expect everyone to share my values or understand my choices. So sometimes, I have to let them go and move away from the relationship for my own sanity. When I do, I put the person in my God-box. On a small piece of paper, I write their name, fold it up and say Lord---I give this person to you. They're in your hands now. And as Linda said---I need to leave the results of friendships to God.
Seems like at the end of 63 Isaiah is trying to put some blame back on God as in "Why have you given us stubborn hearts so we no longer fear you?" v17. Then starting 64, he wants God to come down in a mighty display similar to Sinai.
Truly though, I have felt the same way. It's not blame I'm trying to put on God, I'm just so frustrated at myself for being so stupid & being stubborn. Doing my own thing. Why would He give me freedom of choice when I'm so pig-headed? I know the answer, but I still ask the question sometimes. I am amazed at how patient He is with me.
Sometimes I also want God to just blast out & prove that He is to people who scoff or get away with stuff. But again, He wants us to serve Him because we WANT to, not are afraid not to. And justice is coming...in His time, not mine.
64:5 "We are constant sinners; how can people like us be saved?" Back to the stubbornness. And the next verse saying anything good we do is tainted with sin & it's all garbage! But then the pleading with God, because Isaiah knows Who he is dealing with. God cannot turn away...He wants to be with us way more than we want to be with Him. That's a love I just don't get...but I want it.
65:9 He always has a remnant. There are always some pocket of faithful ones He can save. Yet in the end, we will be millions in heaven. Wow!
62 shows God's love for His people; and to personalize it a bit -- His love for ME! How beautifully descriptive it is: " You will be like a jeweled crown in the hand of the Lord, a royal diadem in the hand of your God . . . the Lord will delight in you . . . as a bridegroom rejoices over his bride, so will the Lord rejoice over you"
63:7 "Stop and think of what the Lord has done for us and of the good things He has waiting for us" good to do, when you feel like your spinning your wheels, or that the weight of the world is on your shoulders.
63:9 "When they suffered, He suffered . . . In His love and mercy He lifted them up and carried them in His arms" what a beautiful word picture . . . what hope for anyone that is being treated unfairly.
Another word picture in 65:2 "Every day I've held out my hands to my people to welcome them (thinking of a parent to a child, or a grandparent to a grandchild), but they are a stubborn people who love to walk in their ow ways and do their own thing" That pretty much sums up human tendancy.
65:16 on: I love the promise of the bigger picture. The promise that the troubles of the past will be gone -- and also; forgotten!!
And what does God want from me? 66:2 "What I really look for are those who are humble and penitent in spirit, who listen in awe to my word and are eager to do my bidding" Lord -- help me, I am a sinner; saved only by Your grace.
and speaking of humbleness vs stubbornness, we have the spiritual leaders, set in their ways. They think they know everything & are open to nothing. Every thing has to be according to what they think. So when Jesus looks at them angrily & is saddened by their stubborn, hard, unteachable hearts, it ties in perfectly with Is 65:2.
I was thinking of how the disciples on the boat had seen Him cast out demons & heal people but they still didn't realize He was the Son of God. They were amazed/terrified that even the elements obeyed Him. In a way, their hearts were hardened or maybe just dull is a better word. The difference between them & the religious leaders though was that they were still teachable.
I was thinking that the shriveled hand was a parable of the shriveled hearts of the pharisees (and us) They sat there and said nothing. Jesus gave them the opportunity to think through why the Sabbath rest and blessing even existed! But (vs 5) their minds were already made up - shriveled; unable to live healthily -- basically dead minds. When the healing occurred, the "great minds" refused to heal with the hand -- refused to JOY in the healing and miracle; instead they left - ignored the apparent. No wonder it made Jesus sad -- how many times do I ignore or miss the miracles around me because my mind is already made up to focus on something else. Their focus was to "get rid of Jesus"
3:12 the people began to argue over who He was instead of listening to what He had to say. Distractions -- how the devil uses them on each of us. We have to force our focus back to His word, His voice -- follow His voice.
3:31 Jesus refused to manipulated by the demands of His family, but He was always respectful. He chose to go out to see them, but only once He had made it clear that His mission was not to please them, but to work for the people around Him.
4:12 Parables: "One reason is to separate those who want to know from those who don't. The HOly Spirit will help those who sincerely want to understand". I like the emphasis on sincere understanding; not understanding just to prove I'm right -- but understanding to know the heart of God.
oh, good analogy of the shrivel hand/hearts. I like that!
I also was thinking of how family can totally misunderstand & downplay God's calling in our lives & try to move us in a different direction or even flat out discourage us.
Your last sentence of trying to not just understand, but understand the heart of God reminds me of what Job was saying above.
7:10 sounds to me like if there is a separation or divorce (and I'm not talking about the case of abuse here) the two options are to remain single or be reconciled to the former spouse.
ReplyDeleteIf that were really the case (seems like a lot of people get divorced because they've fallen in love with someone else, or they've fallen out of love with their present spouse) I wonder if the # of divorces would go down? What do you guys think?
Seems like the call here from Paul (and he keeps alluding to the persecution happening or that will happen) is (24) "in whatever place in life Christ found you, stay there for now, for God is with you." I think that's good advice if you're unsure - - stay put and pray for the next step. I can't imagine how confusing it would be to live through a time of persecution. I wonder if I would stand or cave? Guess I won't know until it happens, but I believe God will prepare me if I'm willing -- and as it says above, He'll be with me:)
7:29-31 is warning not to get attached and consumed by temporary things. And actually -- sounds like even family relations might be considered temporary in light of the persecution.
Here's the kernel: vs 32 "My concern is that you be as free from worry and problems as possible.
The CW made the food to idols topic more clear to me. Here's what it says: 8:7 "Some in your congregation still believe that idols can influence their lives for good or bad. It takes time to get over this. So naturally they'll hesitate to eat food offered to idols because when they do so, they feel that the idol will control them." I always thought eating the food was a form of worship, but from this version -- it sounds like it's a form of internalizing that idol and giving them control of your life.
I had a class once where the teacher said that some of these "traditions" like food to idols -- whether it was right or wrong -- depended on how your choice affected the people around you. That comes out in verse 11 "If you use your freedom and knowledge to teach your brother to ignor his conscience, and he does so, you're weakening his faith" You know -- I can see Jesus going along with some of man's traditions when He was here on earth - - even though those traditions didn't hold water in Heaven's eyes. But He would do everything in His power to connect with us, and move us closer to the truth.
Joseph knew he had changed & grown. He needed to see if his brothers had done the same. I'm sure he was praying & asking God what to do & how to know.
ReplyDeleteThe brothers obviously had changed as well. I can imagine the condemnation, guilt & fear they had when Joseph revealed himself.
What Joseph says in 45:5-8 shows how much he had opened his heart to God. He had stopped fighting & was following. In order for him to be placed in the position he was...the changed had to have occurred way before. Otherwise, the power would have corrupted him.
I need to learn to follow in the small, humble things God puts in my way. If He has something greater, so be it. But to be faithful in the least (like the parable says), means I will be faithful in the great.
I think I'm learning right now where I'm fighting. And hopefully, I will continue to choose to follow instead. I trust You, Jesus.
The brothers all headed back to Egypt, even though the steward sad the rest of you can go free. Good to see them sticking by Ben, even though -- it could mean their own death or enslavement (remembering they had families and a father to support back home).
ReplyDeleteJudah takes a prominent role in the defense -- Judah was the one back in 37:26 that suggested selling Joseph. Judah must have been a leader, so it is good that he had a heart change. Positive leadership can influence and ripple out to all around. Notice that it was Judah that Jacob chose to ride ahead and let Joseph know that they'd arrived:)
Boy those brothers must have been TENSE when Joseph sent everyone out and then started crying so loud. I can only imagine the fear that gripped their hearts as they tried to figure out what was going on!
45:5 I just read this philosophy last night "you can't change the past, but you CAN change what happens in the future" Joseph seems to have bought into that when he tells them to stop condemning themselves over what they did in a fit of anger. and how gracious Jo was to tell them that God was the one to have sent him there. It's true -- some of our greatest blunders, God uses for his glory! He brings beautiful color out of our ugliest tints.
Nice that Jacob stopped (46:1) and worshiped God in the good times, the time when he was no doubt in a hurry to see his dreams fulfilled (seeing Jo). He stopped and worshiped and gave thanks. God honored Jacob's pausing to worship by speaking and reassuring him. How much we miss by moving on at a fast pace and not stopping to connect with Him.
Linda said:---"7:10 sounds to me like if there is a separation or divorce (and I'm not talking about the case of abuse here) the two options are to remain single or be reconciled to the former spouse."
ReplyDeleteWow---I've been divorced 4 times and let me tell you I could write a book on this subject. I've been slandered, abused and bullied by so many Christians concerning my marriages that I still don't trust people that call themselves "Christian".
I find there is so much Hypocrisy in many Christian marriages--- the state of pretending there is nothing evil going on in the marriage and the state of denial concerning sexual abuse of children, extra-marital affairs, etc etc---that I don't understand the ability to continue to live a "lie".
My only experience with Seventh Day Adventists before I attended this church was with a male Physician. I was referred to him as a patient. After a few yrs, this married man and father would call me and tell me he was leaving the office and needed to stop by my house.
Sorry have a crying baby---but I'm not finished
Hey Sher -- how does 7:10 read in your version about divorce? I'm still trying to figure it all out. I think there are some very legitimate reasons to divorce -- including the abuse and bullying that you talked about - - and infidelity.
ReplyDeleteThe divorce that I think Paul is referring to here is about people not "feeling" in love anymore, or "falling in love with someone else" when they've committed themselves already to their marriage partner. I believe that marriage is a very serious commitment and takes daily choices of loyalty. Sometimes I think our world views marriage more as an optional choice, like - - - stay married unless something better comes along.
What do you think?
I believe that marriage is a blood covenant between you, God and your partner.
ReplyDeleteThere is the shedding of blood when a virgin has her first sexual encounter
with her husband. God takes blood covenants very seriously and they should not
be broken. (if possible)
However,--with that said--When I was divorced, I encountered shame, guilt and
condemnation from the church. Divorced people are already in pain and I don't
believe the church needs to add to that. There is an old saying---"Please don't shoot
me, I'm already wounded."
I was in so much pain that I finally cried out to the Lord and told God I hated His
people. He said to me---Who is the accuser of the brethren? I answered Satan.
The Lord asked me if it was His people who would accuse me and hurt me more? He said to me--
What are the signs of those who believe? Luke 16:17-- They will cast out demons in my name,
and they will speak in new languages.
Are these the people who are accusing you? I answered Him, NO.
He said not everyone who says to me Lord, Lord will enter into the Kingdom of Heaven.
You will not find your accusers there.
And again, I must stop at the moment---But I am still not finished.
I wonder why, after the ark had been returned to Israel that Samuel didn't have it brought to Bethel?
ReplyDeleteSamuel's sons didn't fear God, they were greedy. Was that because of Samuel's parenting or was it their choice? The Bible doesn't say. I like to think Samuel had learned something from watching what Eli didn't do & how that displeased God. And after reading what I just wrote I realize we always have to make a choice for ourselves. Can't blame it on others or our parents. We are responsible for the choices we make.
The way God worked with Saul, gave him a new heart, gave him all those signs. How encouraging! I also am thankful for the freedom of choice. The test that is coming. God never forces us to follow Him. He wants an undivided heart.
I like how Samuel went to God for guidance when he felt like the people were rejecting him. He didn't have a pity party. He sought out God. Great example.
Somehow, I'm not real thrilled with the thought of gold tumors and rats!!
ReplyDeleteThe contrast between the people of Beth Shemesh that continued their wicked ways and left the Ark out in the rain, and the people of Kiriath Jearim that loved the Lord and knew that His presence would be a blessing was interesting. I wonder why the ark was not taken back to the temple?? It sounded like in 10:25 that they had a "sanctuary"
Here I raise my Ebenezer -- I remember someone asking me what a Ebenezer was!! I love the name behind the name, "The Lord helped us before and He will help us again" The Israelites had just seen God in action. It wasn't an old story about Egypt, it was their story with the Philistines. I was thinking about a modern day application -- a WWII application, picturing myself surrounded by Hitler's troops. I can imagine raising an Ebenezer after being rescued by God.
I thought it was interesting that the King would demand the tithe off 8:15 tax you a tenth of your increase. Did those faithful to God give a tithe to the King and a tithe to the temple/God? It would be interesting to know. Anyway, the description of the king's requirements sounded suspiciously like a countries government. It'd be pretty cool not to have a government, but to be ruled by God - wouldn't it? Think of everyone paying tithe to God (no earthly tax), living by His rules, and being under His protection. Bother -- we've messed up a pretty good plan, wouldn't you say?
I spent some time trying to figure out the 3 signs Saul came across on his way home:
1) your donkeys have been found: God will take care of your emotional worries and concerns.
2) 2 loaves of bread: God will take care of your physical needs.
3) the Spirit of the Lord will come on you . . . the Lord will open your mind: God will take care of your spiritual needs and guide you.
Very cool that God gave Saul the "gift of leadership" and that he'd be a changed person! Yet Saul was still humble; hiding from the responsibility and being willing to wait for God's timing - - very cool.
Also -- I liked that God chose him for his compassion, in Samuel's words,"we need to talk some more about what's really on your heart (9:19) Vs 25 tells us that "In his heart Saul had been very much concerned about his country" On the other hand -- humans had only the right "look" in mind when it came to a king: (10:24) "no other man like him in all of Israel -- tall, strong and handsome"
One final thought: Saul must not have had the pre-reqs for being a prophet. But a wise man standing nearby (vs 12) pointed out that the important thing is that they've been called by the spirit of the Lord" Pre-reqs don't matter in God's eyes -- He can use, change, equip any of us if we remain open.
33:10,11 says that God frustrates the plans of nations & frustrates all their schemes. Sometimes I feel like he does that with me too. But it's because His plans can't be changed or frustrated. And I'm always happier in the end as I stop fighting & just relax & follow where He's leading.
ReplyDeleteI think the frustrating part is that I know where I was headed, but I can't see where He's headed & I wanna know! Well...sometimes I do. I think if I knew all the time, I definitely wouldn't want to go. Like I said tho, it's always better for me in the end.
I like the reminder at the end of 33 that my only true hope is in God alone.
34 reminded me of what Job's friends are saying. The good people are always blessed, the bad people are always punished. I can see saying this when things are going well for me, but if I'm in Job's position, I'd have to say it's not going to happen until Jesus comes. The trick for me is to not be quick to judge others if they are going thru a trying period in their life. To encourage them as God is putting them thru the furnace to purify them or whatever He is doing. Don't add to their misery.
35:11-16 I can see Job saying too. And Jesus.
33:4 & 5 The words of the Lord are dependable; He is faithful . . . the earth is full of His constant care. Who wouldn't want a ruler like that? Forget flashy and charisma -- give me dependablility, faithfulness, constant care!
ReplyDeletevs 18 "The Lord's eye is on those who honor HIm, who place their hope in HIs love and trust themselves to His care. That's a daily discipline - - as I tend to place my hope in what I can see; I tend to trust myself to my own plans - - it's my natural human bend - - and it's so flimsy. Strength, confidence and peace come from His ruling my life! What a beautiful thought to know that He is watching me; awesome to think that He knows everything about me, even my ugly bent, motives, thoughts -- and He still loves me.
I was wondering if 18 - 20 was speaking of Jesus crucifixion? What got me to thinking was in 20 where it said not one of his bones will be broken? Maybe 18 and 19 was written for encouragement for his followers? and us today as well -- who has experienced being brokenhearted and crushed?
Yes -- 35 reminds me of Job's life -- and Jesus life too.
And now please, please allow me to interrupt the schedule one more time to finish the thoughts about divorce and remarriage.
ReplyDeleteI didn't need anyone to point out to me I had sinned by marrying 4 times--- I was already aware that I was a believer who needed healing. What I needed and what I received was the favor and mercy of God.
The Gospel of Christ is supposed to be such good news that it's almost too good to be true. It borders on the realm of fantasy, it's that good. And the goodness of God allowed me to receive His favor and mercy and to believe Him for the outrageous.
Linda said: "Sometimes I think our world views marriage more as an optional choice, like - - - stay married unless something better comes along."
I believe that if today's church displayed the outrageous power and favor of God, then believers wouldn't be concerned with following the ways of the world. We would be consumed with the Spirit of God.
Job refuses to allow his friends to misrepresent the character of his friend God. Obviously, Job has spent some time with God, he wasn't content to be spoon fed by the current belief system, but went way deeper; developed an actual relationship.
ReplyDeleteThis is shown by what he says in 23:4-6 & the confidence displayed in v10,11. Job treasured his time with God more than his food (v12). That's how important his friendship was. Nothing could come between it.
He also knows the majesty & power of God, his closeness has not decreased his respect & worship of the Almighty; it has deepened it. In v13,14, Job acknowledges the power of God by saying who can change His mind? "...So He will do to me whatever He has planned. He controls my destiny." I don't see this as futile resignation. I see it as confident surrender. "This is what's best for me, surrender. I am at peace now, because He is in charge."
The end of 23 shows that Job is human too. He would love to know the plan. The awesome power of God & what He could do can be terrifying, especially when you know you've done all you could do & yet God is still allowing affliction. Why? It would definitely depress me if I were in Job's place. I can relate to the flipping back & forth shown here.
Why then (24) does the wicked get away? I can think of a LOT of people that should be punished, but they get off with nothing & I can think of a LOT of innocent people who get the shaft. Why? What's God up to? Why doesn't He act like I think He should right now?
I go back to Job's statement in 23:5 "...I would listen to His reply and understand what He says to me". God doesn't have to explain His actions to me. But when He does speak, I am silenced & can only be in awe of His wisdom & purpose driven decisions.
Makes me think of what I read today in Dear Jesus. This is Jesus speaking: "Walk with Me in holy trust, responding to My initiatives rather than trying to make things fit your plans."
Looked up initiative & like this definition: A beginning or introductory step; an opening move
A lot of food for thought today...
Wow Chris -- what a GREAT quote from Dear Jesus -- especially tied in with the meaning of initiative!
ReplyDeleteI also liked your comparison of resignation and surrender. Surrender is positive; it's a choice - - we're willing putting our lives in His hands; really good.
I liked 23:5 too -- "I want to know HIs answers, and I would carefully consider what He had to say." Job didn't want to know God's answers so he could argue them down, change God's mind -- He wanted understanding. But Job had such a beautiful picture of God in vs 6 & 7 "He would graciously listen to everything I say. In His presence a man can present his case" Job had no fear of God -- God graciously listening to man -- that paints such a picture for me; especially when you consider how many of us there are and only one Sovereign God!!
Job goes back over his life: "I have always tried to keep His commandments and have treasured His word more than my daily bread" To me, this is once again a picture of resignation vs surrender. Job doesn't follow God's commands out of resignation with gritted teeth -- rather, he treasures God's ways, as Chris said, even more than physical food. This is a picture of a deep friendship between Job and God.
It is easy for me to feel betrayed by earthly friends; if they turn their back on me, I way too easily write them off. Job shows me a picture of grace towards God, his best Friend -- giving Him always the benefit of the doubt; never writing Him off -- but instead, trying to understand the big picture, the whole situation. I believe I need to be more gracious to people around me and always leave the results of friendships to God.
Wow Linda---
ReplyDeleteyour last paragraph is amazing.
I feel I'm on this earth to grow and allow the Lord to change me.
Sometimes I screw up and I allow another person to become my God and I look to them for feedback. Or I look to them to fill the emptiness inside of me. I allow them to control me and try to change me. That's not what God wants.
I can't expect everyone to share my values or understand my choices. So sometimes, I have to let them go and move away from the relationship for my own sanity.
When I do, I put the person in my God-box. On a small piece of paper, I write their name, fold it up and say Lord---I give this person to you. They're in your hands now.
And as Linda said---I need to leave the results of friendships to God.
Seems like at the end of 63 Isaiah is trying to put some blame back on God as in "Why have you given us stubborn hearts so we no longer fear you?" v17.
ReplyDeleteThen starting 64, he wants God to come down in a mighty display similar to Sinai.
Truly though, I have felt the same way. It's not blame I'm trying to put on God, I'm just so frustrated at myself for being so stupid & being stubborn. Doing my own thing. Why would He give me freedom of choice when I'm so pig-headed? I know the answer, but I still ask the question sometimes. I am amazed at how patient He is with me.
Sometimes I also want God to just blast out & prove that He is to people who scoff or get away with stuff. But again, He wants us to serve Him because we WANT to, not are afraid not to. And justice is coming...in His time, not mine.
64:5 "We are constant sinners; how can people like us be saved?" Back to the stubbornness. And the next verse saying anything good we do is tainted with sin & it's all garbage!
But then the pleading with God, because Isaiah knows Who he is dealing with. God cannot turn away...He wants to be with us way more than we want to be with Him. That's a love I just don't get...but I want it.
65:9 He always has a remnant. There are always some pocket of faithful ones He can save. Yet in the end, we will be millions in heaven. Wow!
62 shows God's love for His people; and to personalize it a bit -- His love for ME! How beautifully descriptive it is: " You will be like a jeweled crown in the hand of the Lord, a royal diadem in the hand of your God . . . the Lord will delight in you . . . as a bridegroom rejoices over his bride, so will the Lord rejoice over you"
ReplyDelete63:7 "Stop and think of what the Lord has done for us and of the good things He has waiting for us" good to do, when you feel like your spinning your wheels, or that the weight of the world is on your shoulders.
63:9 "When they suffered, He suffered . . . In His love and mercy He lifted them up and carried them in His arms" what a beautiful word picture . . . what hope for anyone that is being treated unfairly.
Another word picture in 65:2 "Every day I've held out my hands to my people to welcome them (thinking of a parent to a child, or a grandparent to a grandchild), but they are a stubborn people who love to walk in their ow ways and do their own thing" That pretty much sums up human tendancy.
65:16 on: I love the promise of the bigger picture. The promise that the troubles of the past will be gone -- and also; forgotten!!
And what does God want from me? 66:2 "What I really look for are those who are humble and penitent in spirit, who listen in awe to my word and are eager to do my bidding" Lord -- help me, I am a sinner; saved only by Your grace.
and speaking of humbleness vs stubbornness, we have the spiritual leaders, set in their ways. They think they know everything & are open to nothing. Every thing has to be according to what they think. So when Jesus looks at them angrily & is saddened by their stubborn, hard, unteachable hearts, it ties in perfectly with Is 65:2.
ReplyDeleteI was thinking of how the disciples on the boat had seen Him cast out demons & heal people but they still didn't realize He was the Son of God. They were amazed/terrified that even the elements obeyed Him. In a way, their hearts were hardened or maybe just dull is a better word. The difference between them & the religious leaders though was that they were still teachable.
I was thinking that the shriveled hand was a parable of the shriveled hearts of the pharisees (and us) They sat there and said nothing. Jesus gave them the opportunity to think through why the Sabbath rest and blessing even existed! But (vs 5) their minds were already made up - shriveled; unable to live healthily -- basically dead minds. When the healing occurred, the "great minds" refused to heal with the hand -- refused to JOY in the healing and miracle; instead they left - ignored the apparent. No wonder it made Jesus sad -- how many times do I ignore or miss the miracles around me because my mind is already made up to focus on something else. Their focus was to "get rid of Jesus"
ReplyDelete3:12 the people began to argue over who He was instead of listening to what He had to say. Distractions -- how the devil uses them on each of us. We have to force our focus back to His word, His voice -- follow His voice.
3:31 Jesus refused to manipulated by the demands of His family, but He was always respectful. He chose to go out to see them, but only once He had made it clear that His mission was not to please them, but to work for the people around Him.
4:12 Parables: "One reason is to separate those who want to know from those who don't. The HOly Spirit will help those who sincerely want to understand". I like the emphasis on sincere understanding; not understanding just to prove I'm right -- but understanding to know the heart of God.
oh, good analogy of the shrivel hand/hearts. I like that!
ReplyDeleteI also was thinking of how family can totally misunderstand & downplay God's calling in our lives & try to move us in a different direction or even flat out discourage us.
Your last sentence of trying to not just understand, but understand the heart of God reminds me of what Job was saying above.