I appreciate and admire the courage of Paul -- not just physical courage, but emotional courage. "Do you think I care about eh approval of men or about the approval of God?" He goes toe to toe with the opposers; but also with Paul -- someone who had walked/talked with Jesus -- one of the big 3, one who had been an apostle long before Paul - - that takes a different kind of courage. I admire Paul's passion.
I died to the law. Now I have found the freedom to truly live for God!
The law keeps sin in check until the time is right for the saving justice that comes through faith in Jesus. The law is a tutor" - - this all makes sense. Different avenues for different time periods and situations to lead us to an abundance guilt-free life:)
Summed up: "it is your faith in the Anointed Jesus that makes all of you children of God" Whooooo-hooooooo! Doable for everyone!
This reading brought back a lot of thoughts from the Culture of Honor book I was reading yesterday. Not sure I can pull it together concisely enough for here though.
I do appreciate the call to live what I believe instead of just saying it, depending who's in the room with me. Paul says in Romans, that he's not ashamed of the gospel of Christ. He is fearless because he appreciates (is grateful) for what it cost Christ. He is totally won over by the overwhelming love shown to him when he did not deserve it.
That too, is part of what I was reading yesterday. True repentance when confronted = God restoring us, not punishing us. Yet as men, because we fear what people will think, have a "process" that needs to happen. God's restoration process doesn't make sense to us humans. But He sees a bigger picture, a heavenly one. Consequences are what they are, but we don't need to add to them. We need to have the mind of Christ - fully. That'd provoke some conversation!
God finally got the Israelites attention when He said -- I'm not going on with you -- that would strike fear to my heart too. They stopped wearing their jewelry; I don't understand the significance of that -- maybe their jewelry was fashioned as part of their idolatry? not sure
love this line "the Eternal spoke with Moses face-to-face, just as a friend speaks to another friend" and it was neat that his (Moses) skin glowed -- another sign to the Israelites just how close Moses was to God.
the commentator made it clear about the tent outside the camp that was set up -- again, God was saying that he couldn't be in the middle of rebellion -- it was interesting to watch Moses passion of mediation -- I know that Moses felt insecure going forward without God in the middle of it all.
To see the back of God -- that'd be awesome; certainly life-changing forever -- and to know that His hand was physically covering you -- I always picture myself in God's arms and under His wings (if He has wings) - - but this was a very specific covering.
I will claim this promise today in verse 14 "My presence will travel with you, and I will give you rest" Rest from the worries and the unknowns - that's what we all long for
To carry up stone 7,497 feet (I looked it up) is no small task for an old man -- no complaining tho -- up Moses goes!
I spent some time on God's name for Himself -- a good thing to remember (verse 7) "abundant in loyal love" "full of compassion and mercy" "slow to anger" traits that are really un-human (without God-intervention)
"Offer only the best of your harvest when you bring a gift" this shows who we are serving; ourselves or our God -- where is our heart?
The abundance of the Israelite giving shows me that they had truly repented; and I liked the commentator's take that God wanted free, from-the-heart service - - they'd just come out of slavery, and he wanted no hint of forced obligatory serving -- same as today! It's all from the heart, the loyalty -- as His name is: abundant in loyal love
I think you mentioned this last time, how Joshua was able to stay behind in the tent after Moses/God had talked. Sometimes we have to go out from God's Presence to the duties He has given us as Moses did. Other times, we're able to linger and worship more. Seems as long as Moses knew God was with him, he was fearless.
Good to know also, that Moses wanted confirmation from God. He didn't get it from his earthly father due to circumstances and definitely not from Pharoah. Pharoah condemned him. It was good for me to see my Father's heart there. He didn't criticize Moses' weakness, He understood it and did something to confirm His love to Moses. Very touching. We just don't know the story behind why people come at us the way they do. So important to have God's eyes and heart to know how to proceed.
I also noticed how the skills the people learned were during slavery. During hard times and in circumstances they wanted out of and felt out of control. God was always in control however. Good application for me today, this year. He's the One doing the directing and weaving of all the threads to make the beautiful fabric of my life. I need to stop whining so much, relax and trust Him. It's a design I would never, could never, come up with on my own.
Abishag was a Shunammite girl -- I'm guessing that when David died, she was part of Solomon's harem - maybe she is the one in Song of Solomon . . . anyway - seems to me, David's servants should have thought of one of his wives to be his nurse - - those men back then didn't seem to think highly of marriage commitment, that's all I have to say.
Adonijah . . . one word about him --- busted!
I love the humility of David "He has allowed me to live long enough to see the day when another sits on my throne" how many kings said THAT in their lifetime? They were too busy trying to protect their thrones. David bowed on his bed b4 Solomon -- that must have been a humbling experience for Solomon.
I appreciate the honor Sol bestows upon his mom -- hard to believe that Bath would even let Adonijah approach her - - but then, maybe there was a elephant herd instinct in the kings court of wives - who knows.
I love this simple line "Solomon's heart belonged to the Eternal" that is something I would love to be known for -- but my heart deceives me all the time -- when it says "work out your salvation" in the NT, to me that means -- keep focusing on God and who He is and what He's done. Get your eyes off yourself and your needs and focus on what He needs and wants.
It is very amazing that King Saul realized that with youth and inexperience comes mistakes - - "Please give Your servant a listening heart" and God leaped for joy that someone would ask for the ability to understand justice! I'm thinking again of Micah 6:8 Do justly, love mercy, walk humbly - - if Saul hadn't been swayed l8r, what an awesome ruler he would have been his whole life . . .
40,000 horse stalls -- I can't even comprehend that! I shoveled horse manure for 2 horses when I was younger -- took a lot of time! Wonder what they did with all the horse manure from 40,000 horses (this is a random thought I know, but just thinking about the piles we had around our barn)
I had the same thought as to why they wouldn't just get one of the wives. Hadn't put the 2 together that Abishag could have been the one in SOS. It does say she was very beautiful here.
I don't know what you mean by the elephant herd mentality, but I was surprised that Bathsheba didn't see right through Adonijah's scheme. Maybe she was intimidated by him and was scared.
Joab finally gets his. Justice may be delayed, but it is always meted out in the end. He was just one to go where the power was, if Absalom had waited until David was older, Joab might have sided with him then as well.
People seeking power always destroy something or someone. Just the opposite of how God works. He builds up, He sacrifices to give us power, not keep it for Himself. Just amazing.
Yes, I definitely love that line that Solomon's heart belonged to the Eternal. Solomon showed discernment even before God granted him superior wisdom and understanding.
So in an elephant herd, all the matriarchs surround and protect the baby elephants no matter if it is there babe or not -- I'm thinking Adonijah grew up in the court, maybe they had a mom's co-op group where they rotated one mom took care of all the kids so the other mom's could have the day off or something and she viewed Ad as one of "her kids" I just can't figure whey she would give him the time of day otherwise - - but maybe it was a court respect thing or something.
ok, I see what you're saying, that makes sense. Maybe she was also flattered that he would approach her, acknowledging that her son was in power and she allowed that flattery to go to her head
Really loved psalms today. Seeing God's power talked about just made me picture sitting back and snuggling in Papa's strong arms that protect me. He gave me the thought once again, that even in death I am protected because I am His. What can man do to me?
I was thinking last night of how Jesus slept through the storm in the boat until the disciple's panic woke Him up. Ties in nicely with the reading today.
The first few verses of 63 I correlated to the lack of the HS. Being dry and parched and longing for the soaking rain of His Presence which He promised in the HS. I don't believe that's just for "the end" in one big monsoon. I believe we are to realize Him every day in our lives. We should long for the HS like we do water. I don't think we even realize that we are dehydrated spiritually.
I just love the wording in v6 "Often at night I lie in bed and remember You, meditating on Your greatness till morning smiles through my window." I love that God wakes me up instead of an annoying beeping sound. He's so gentle and the thoughts that He wakes me with, do bring a smile to my face. I love watching the daybreak with Him.
I guess it was while reading 64 that He reminded me of being protected in death. Don't be afraid when people threaten me, my job, my family, my dreams. Do I give them control by fear? God is in control and I need to remember that.
65 talks about people being astonished by the power of God and talking about it. Gives the impression of spreading the news about what He has done.
The nations around Israel did the same thing, but they didn't believe it to the point where it changed them, or made them want something more. It just made them afraid. I don't want to just talk about God and things He's done. I want Him to change me. I want something More. I want Him.
"I seek You with every fiber of my being" I know that is not always true in my case - but it is what I long for.
"I will bless You with every breath of my life; I will lift up my hands in praise to Your name" what a great picture of both individual worship and corporate worship.
"Often at night I lie in bed and remember You, meditating on YOur greatness till morning smiles through my window" love the personification - and the reality that thinking back over His greatness and leading leads to the sweet sleep of gratitude.
"My soul clings to you; Your right hand reaches down and holds me up" again -- the personification and reference to a child and a parent - - awesome that the Great God would reach down and hold us!
65: "You hear us pray in words and silence" so many thought prayers - so wonderful to know that they are heard as well.
"You invite us near, drawing . . ." leaving it there -- I want to experience the drawing
I did love those words that created the pictures special to my relationship with God. Each one of us has our own picture of our relationship with God. It's neither right nor wrong, it simply personifies the relationship.
Wow - only 1 chapter today! Yeah! Packed full of good stuff though.
I liked the 1st 6 verses the most. Shows that we all can change; we all can grow. We don't have to remain where we are in our understanding of Who God is and how close He wants to be with us.
I don't know if I truly value discipline yet, at least not in the moment. It's usually after the fact, when I see the benefits of it. But what if I don't see the benies right away? I tend to whine and fuss, like a baby Christian instead of a mature one. Still growing, but I can only go up! :D
WOOT! on to Proverbs! I gave a big smile when I saw that. WORSHIP is the first step toward knowledge. Worshipping is acknowledging that He's God and I'm not - He's got the answers, He is due all the praise (protecting me from pride) Maybe we don't spend enough time worshipping - maybe that's why we struggle with wisdom?
Lady wisdom contrasts the seductive woman; one wanting to pull us down, the other to build us up -- why would that be so hard? and why is it so hard for us to receive advice? we want nothing to do with advice and correction (Lady Wisdom says) so I need to keep watch and be listening . . .
skimmed over all the smaller empire woes and read the woes to Babylon. These woes were given (according to the commentator) at the height of B power. Everyone was thinking Jer was nuts -- how could this be? Look at how strong B is? Just like when the disciples thought Jesus was wrong about the temple walls -- a good warning for us.
There was counsel from Jer to leave B as it would soon fall. I wonder if the exiles to B had that choice, or if they were prisoners there?
There was even the direct prophecy that the fall would come from the Medes - wonder why B didn't take that a bit seriously and keep careful watch on the Medes; no doubt pride (as with all of us) we're warned where our pitfalls will be (proverbs) and we ignore it, thinking we are strong enough or wise enough to not get caught up in Satan's traps.
I finished a very good, interesting and troubling book yesterday called "The Loss of Innocence" about a young Cambodian girl who was sold into prostitution -- it was so very horrible; unspeakable -- yet she was taken in, when possible by a very kind family who did everything they could for her. There was a point where she turned her back on this "father" yet he still loved her - in the end she turned back to the family and helped them. There is so much more to this story -- but it was an illustration to me of my Father's love -- how he loves me through my guilt and shame. Worth reading - - a very precious story of how God can use all of our experiences and loves us for who we are . . . not who we wished we were
Good stuff in your comments yesterday - thank you.
I don't know where to begin commenting on today's reading in Luke. So much there.
I think what impressed me the most throughout Jesus' interaction with people and nature was His trust relationship with His Father. It had grown to a level that there was no panic when things seemingly spiraled out of control and He was in an unknown situation.
Was that part of those 18 years toiling as a simple carpenter, when He kept learning that He was destined for so much more? As He read the Scriptures and saw what the Messiah could do and what would happen to Him, did He have to daily surrender that to God? Did they have conversations about what all He could do if He started earlier?
The Bible doesn't say. But it does give me a LOT to ponder on. Trust in a relationship is built over time - we all know that. I also believe that it can be built in a moment; when there's a choice to make and you just have to "jump" into the arms of Someone you hope will catch you. When He does, you never forget that. Either way, the relationship is crucial. Hmmm and hmmmmm.
I was struck in chpt 8 with the 4 people(s) who didn't know what to do: the disciples, the demonic, the synagogue official, the woman. The disciples told Jesus what to do -- they shook Him; get up - save us (not really the most humble approach) The other 3 fell at His feet. In one case His response was, "where is your faith?" do you trust God even in the middle of the storm to decide your fate?
What a contrast to the demoniac who was totally out of control - screaming at Jesus; yet somehow through that possession, he still fell at His feet. The demoniac was so grateful that he stayed put when his one desire was to be physically close to Him -- and isn't it interesting that he was the FIRST to get sent out (before the 12! coming up in chpt 9)
The synagogue - fell at His feet - even though he was an official, used to the respect of others.
The woman was scorned - - she fell with total gratitude
There is something very special about falling in submission at His feet.
Chris! Speaking of great observations - YES! Jesus daily submission at the carpenter's shop -- so once He started His new mission, submission was an extension of his daily practice (by the way -- did you notice that mission and submission are very similar??)
I appreciate and admire the courage of Paul -- not just physical courage, but emotional courage. "Do you think I care about eh approval of men or about the approval of God?" He goes toe to toe with the opposers; but also with Paul -- someone who had walked/talked with Jesus -- one of the big 3, one who had been an apostle long before Paul - - that takes a different kind of courage. I admire Paul's passion.
ReplyDeleteI died to the law. Now I have found the freedom to truly live for God!
The law keeps sin in check until the time is right for the saving justice that comes through faith in Jesus. The law is a tutor" - - this all makes sense. Different avenues for different time periods and situations to lead us to an abundance guilt-free life:)
Summed up: "it is your faith in the Anointed Jesus that makes all of you children of God" Whooooo-hooooooo! Doable for everyone!
This reading brought back a lot of thoughts from the Culture of Honor book I was reading yesterday. Not sure I can pull it together concisely enough for here though.
ReplyDeleteI do appreciate the call to live what I believe instead of just saying it, depending who's in the room with me. Paul says in Romans, that he's not ashamed of the gospel of Christ. He is fearless because he appreciates (is grateful) for what it cost Christ. He is totally won over by the overwhelming love shown to him when he did not deserve it.
That too, is part of what I was reading yesterday. True repentance when confronted = God restoring us, not punishing us. Yet as men, because we fear what people will think, have a "process" that needs to happen. God's restoration process doesn't make sense to us humans. But He sees a bigger picture, a heavenly one. Consequences are what they are, but we don't need to add to them. We need to have the mind of Christ - fully. That'd provoke some conversation!
God finally got the Israelites attention when He said -- I'm not going on with you -- that would strike fear to my heart too. They stopped wearing their jewelry; I don't understand the significance of that -- maybe their jewelry was fashioned as part of their idolatry? not sure
ReplyDeletelove this line "the Eternal spoke with Moses face-to-face, just as a friend speaks to another friend" and it was neat that his (Moses) skin glowed -- another sign to the Israelites just how close Moses was to God.
the commentator made it clear about the tent outside the camp that was set up -- again, God was saying that he couldn't be in the middle of rebellion -- it was interesting to watch Moses passion of mediation -- I know that Moses felt insecure going forward without God in the middle of it all.
To see the back of God -- that'd be awesome; certainly life-changing forever -- and to know that His hand was physically covering you -- I always picture myself in God's arms and under His wings (if He has wings) - - but this was a very specific covering.
I will claim this promise today in verse 14 "My presence will travel with you, and I will give you rest" Rest from the worries and the unknowns - that's what we all long for
To carry up stone 7,497 feet (I looked it up) is no small task for an old man -- no complaining tho -- up Moses goes!
I spent some time on God's name for Himself -- a good thing to remember (verse 7) "abundant in loyal love" "full of compassion and mercy" "slow to anger" traits that are really un-human (without God-intervention)
"Offer only the best of your harvest when you bring a gift" this shows who we are serving; ourselves or our God -- where is our heart?
The abundance of the Israelite giving shows me that they had truly repented; and I liked the commentator's take that God wanted free, from-the-heart service - - they'd just come out of slavery, and he wanted no hint of forced obligatory serving -- same as today! It's all from the heart, the loyalty -- as His name is: abundant in loyal love
I think you mentioned this last time, how Joshua was able to stay behind in the tent after Moses/God had talked. Sometimes we have to go out from God's Presence to the duties He has given us as Moses did. Other times, we're able to linger and worship more. Seems as long as Moses knew God was with him, he was fearless.
ReplyDeleteGood to know also, that Moses wanted confirmation from God. He didn't get it from his earthly father due to circumstances and definitely not from Pharoah. Pharoah condemned him. It was good for me to see my Father's heart there. He didn't criticize Moses' weakness, He understood it and did something to confirm His love to Moses. Very touching. We just don't know the story behind why people come at us the way they do. So important to have God's eyes and heart to know how to proceed.
I also noticed how the skills the people learned were during slavery. During hard times and in circumstances they wanted out of and felt out of control. God was always in control however. Good application for me today, this year. He's the One doing the directing and weaving of all the threads to make the beautiful fabric of my life. I need to stop whining so much, relax and trust Him. It's a design I would never, could never, come up with on my own.
Abishag was a Shunammite girl -- I'm guessing that when David died, she was part of Solomon's harem - maybe she is the one in Song of Solomon . . . anyway - seems to me, David's servants should have thought of one of his wives to be his nurse - - those men back then didn't seem to think highly of marriage commitment, that's all I have to say.
ReplyDeleteAdonijah . . . one word about him --- busted!
I love the humility of David "He has allowed me to live long enough to see the day when another sits on my throne" how many kings said THAT in their lifetime? They were too busy trying to protect their thrones. David bowed on his bed b4 Solomon -- that must have been a humbling experience for Solomon.
I appreciate the honor Sol bestows upon his mom -- hard to believe that Bath would even let Adonijah approach her - - but then, maybe there was a elephant herd instinct in the kings court of wives - who knows.
I love this simple line "Solomon's heart belonged to the Eternal" that is something I would love to be known for -- but my heart deceives me all the time -- when it says "work out your salvation" in the NT, to me that means -- keep focusing on God and who He is and what He's done. Get your eyes off yourself and your needs and focus on what He needs and wants.
It is very amazing that King Saul realized that with youth and inexperience comes mistakes - - "Please give Your servant a listening heart" and God leaped for joy that someone would ask for the ability to understand justice! I'm thinking again of Micah 6:8 Do justly, love mercy, walk humbly - - if Saul hadn't been swayed l8r, what an awesome ruler he would have been his whole life . . .
40,000 horse stalls -- I can't even comprehend that! I shoveled horse manure for 2 horses when I was younger -- took a lot of time! Wonder what they did with all the horse manure from 40,000 horses (this is a random thought I know, but just thinking about the piles we had around our barn)
I had the same thought as to why they wouldn't just get one of the wives. Hadn't put the 2 together that Abishag could have been the one in SOS. It does say she was very beautiful here.
ReplyDeleteI don't know what you mean by the elephant herd mentality, but I was surprised that Bathsheba didn't see right through Adonijah's scheme. Maybe she was intimidated by him and was scared.
Joab finally gets his. Justice may be delayed, but it is always meted out in the end. He was just one to go where the power was, if Absalom had waited until David was older, Joab might have sided with him then as well.
People seeking power always destroy something or someone. Just the opposite of how God works. He builds up, He sacrifices to give us power, not keep it for Himself. Just amazing.
Yes, I definitely love that line that Solomon's heart belonged to the Eternal. Solomon showed discernment even before God granted him superior wisdom and understanding.
So in an elephant herd, all the matriarchs surround and protect the baby elephants no matter if it is there babe or not -- I'm thinking Adonijah grew up in the court, maybe they had a mom's co-op group where they rotated one mom took care of all the kids so the other mom's could have the day off or something and she viewed Ad as one of "her kids" I just can't figure whey she would give him the time of day otherwise - - but maybe it was a court respect thing or something.
ReplyDeleteok, I see what you're saying, that makes sense. Maybe she was also flattered that he would approach her, acknowledging that her son was in power and she allowed that flattery to go to her head
DeleteReally loved psalms today. Seeing God's power talked about just made me picture sitting back and snuggling in Papa's strong arms that protect me. He gave me the thought once again, that even in death I am protected because I am His. What can man do to me?
ReplyDeleteI was thinking last night of how Jesus slept through the storm in the boat until the disciple's panic woke Him up. Ties in nicely with the reading today.
The first few verses of 63 I correlated to the lack of the HS. Being dry and parched and longing for the soaking rain of His Presence which He promised in the HS. I don't believe that's just for "the end" in one big monsoon. I believe we are to realize Him every day in our lives. We should long for the HS like we do water. I don't think we even realize that we are dehydrated spiritually.
I just love the wording in v6 "Often at night I lie in bed and remember You, meditating on Your greatness till morning smiles through my window." I love that God wakes me up instead of an annoying beeping sound. He's so gentle and the thoughts that He wakes me with, do bring a smile to my face. I love watching the daybreak with Him.
I guess it was while reading 64 that He reminded me of being protected in death. Don't be afraid when people threaten me, my job, my family, my dreams. Do I give them control by fear? God is in control and I need to remember that.
65 talks about people being astonished by the power of God and talking about it. Gives the impression of spreading the news about what He has done.
The nations around Israel did the same thing, but they didn't believe it to the point where it changed them, or made them want something more. It just made them afraid. I don't want to just talk about God and things He's done. I want Him to change me. I want something More. I want Him.
Psalms 63 has so many beautiful word pics
ReplyDelete"I seek You with every fiber of my being" I know that is not always true in my case - but it is what I long for.
"I will bless You with every breath of my life; I will lift up my hands in praise to Your name" what a great picture of both individual worship and corporate worship.
"Often at night I lie in bed and remember You, meditating on YOur greatness till morning smiles through my window" love the personification - and the reality that thinking back over His greatness and leading leads to the sweet sleep of gratitude.
"My soul clings to you; Your right hand reaches down and holds me up" again -- the personification and reference to a child and a parent - - awesome that the Great God would reach down and hold us!
65: "You hear us pray in words and silence" so many thought prayers - so wonderful to know that they are heard as well.
"You invite us near, drawing . . ." leaving it there -- I want to experience the drawing
I did love those words that created the pictures special to my relationship with God. Each one of us has our own picture of our relationship with God. It's neither right nor wrong, it simply personifies the relationship.
ReplyDeleteWow - only 1 chapter today! Yeah! Packed full of good stuff though.
I liked the 1st 6 verses the most. Shows that we all can change; we all can grow. We don't have to remain where we are in our understanding of Who God is and how close He wants to be with us.
I don't know if I truly value discipline yet, at least not in the moment. It's usually after the fact, when I see the benefits of it. But what if I don't see the benies right away? I tend to whine and fuss, like a baby Christian instead of a mature one. Still growing, but I can only go up! :D
WOOT! on to Proverbs! I gave a big smile when I saw that. WORSHIP is the first step toward knowledge. Worshipping is acknowledging that He's God and I'm not - He's got the answers, He is due all the praise (protecting me from pride) Maybe we don't spend enough time worshipping - maybe that's why we struggle with wisdom?
ReplyDeleteLady wisdom contrasts the seductive woman; one wanting to pull us down, the other to build us up -- why would that be so hard? and why is it so hard for us to receive advice? we want nothing to do with advice and correction (Lady Wisdom says) so I need to keep watch and be listening . . .
skimmed over all the smaller empire woes and read the woes to Babylon. These woes were given (according to the commentator) at the height of B power. Everyone was thinking Jer was nuts -- how could this be? Look at how strong B is? Just like when the disciples thought Jesus was wrong about the temple walls -- a good warning for us.
ReplyDeleteThere was counsel from Jer to leave B as it would soon fall. I wonder if the exiles to B had that choice, or if they were prisoners there?
There was even the direct prophecy that the fall would come from the Medes - wonder why B didn't take that a bit seriously and keep careful watch on the Medes; no doubt pride (as with all of us) we're warned where our pitfalls will be (proverbs) and we ignore it, thinking we are strong enough or wise enough to not get caught up in Satan's traps.
I finished a very good, interesting and troubling book yesterday called "The Loss of Innocence" about a young Cambodian girl who was sold into prostitution -- it was so very horrible; unspeakable -- yet she was taken in, when possible by a very kind family who did everything they could for her. There was a point where she turned her back on this "father" yet he still loved her - in the end she turned back to the family and helped them. There is so much more to this story -- but it was an illustration to me of my Father's love -- how he loves me through my guilt and shame. Worth reading - - a very precious story of how God can use all of our experiences and loves us for who we are . . . not who we wished we were
Good stuff in your comments yesterday - thank you.
ReplyDeleteI don't know where to begin commenting on today's reading in Luke. So much there.
I think what impressed me the most throughout Jesus' interaction with people and nature was His trust relationship with His Father. It had grown to a level that there was no panic when things seemingly spiraled out of control and He was in an unknown situation.
Was that part of those 18 years toiling as a simple carpenter, when He kept learning that He was destined for so much more? As He read the Scriptures and saw what the Messiah could do and what would happen to Him, did He have to daily surrender that to God? Did they have conversations about what all He could do if He started earlier?
The Bible doesn't say. But it does give me a LOT to ponder on. Trust in a relationship is built over time - we all know that. I also believe that it can be built in a moment; when there's a choice to make and you just have to "jump" into the arms of Someone you hope will catch you. When He does, you never forget that. Either way, the relationship is crucial. Hmmm and hmmmmm.
I was struck in chpt 8 with the 4 people(s) who didn't know what to do: the disciples, the demonic, the synagogue official, the woman. The disciples told Jesus what to do -- they shook Him; get up - save us (not really the most humble approach) The other 3 fell at His feet. In one case His response was, "where is your faith?" do you trust God even in the middle of the storm to decide your fate?
ReplyDeleteWhat a contrast to the demoniac who was totally out of control - screaming at Jesus; yet somehow through that possession, he still fell at His feet. The demoniac was so grateful that he stayed put when his one desire was to be physically close to Him -- and isn't it interesting that he was the FIRST to get sent out (before the 12! coming up in chpt 9)
The synagogue - fell at His feet - even though he was an official, used to the respect of others.
The woman was scorned - - she fell with total gratitude
There is something very special about falling in submission at His feet.
That is such a great observation Linda, thank you!
DeleteChris! Speaking of great observations - YES! Jesus daily submission at the carpenter's shop -- so once He started His new mission, submission was an extension of his daily practice (by the way -- did you notice that mission and submission are very similar??)
ReplyDelete