I love the transparency of Paul -- not trying to please everybody -- but rather God - - who examines the motives. He didn't sandwich truth between cunning compliments - he told it straight; often harder to hear, but usually more effective, as the listener hears what they need to hear; and - - very unlike worldly-wise; he didn't make a single cent off of you - - that really gets people's attention - it really means; a servant heart.
The mentor, Paul, tells them that he knows they have been chosen by God - very encouraging words to hear. Then he shares the reason, their life has been changed. Also good to hear your progress from a different perspective, it reminds you where you have come from and what God has been doing in your life. At times in our walk, we forget that and get weighed down with what we are struggling with currently. Very encouraging to hear that others have noticed the changes God is making in our lives.
It is truly amazing that EVERY single place Paul went he encountered hostilities and yet, he kept on. He saw them for what they were - not attacks by people, but attacks from satan. He loved the people. His perspective had changed from a personal one to a godly one. This is what I desperately need. Not my will God, but Yours - all Yours. Please take over.
"Thank Me in the midst of the crucible. When things seem all wrong, look for growth opportunities. Especially look for areas where you need to let go, leaving your cares in My able hands. Do you trust Me to orchestrate your life events as I choose, or are you still trying to make things go according to your will? If you keep trying to carry out your intentions while I am leading you in another direction, you deify your desires." JC 140 Another page said thanking God for my trial switches it from the negative focus of a problem and it ceases to have the power to trip me up.
I like these 2 thoughts today. Keeps bringing me back to the song He is With Us - by Love & the Outcome
Ahhhh Chris -- those words were good for me to hear today! Thank you; much more interesting and practical than Leviticus!!!
BUT - I do appreciate how God watches out for the poor, the neighbor, the hired hand and the disabled -- if He does it, and we're his children, I'm sure He's hoping we'll follow His example and not just think God's got it covered.
"Do not seek revenge or hod a grudge against any of your people. Instead, love your neighbor as you love yourself" It was neat to see where Jesus quoted this from; it reminds me that he carefully went through Lev - I found myself nodding off through part of it, but I'm guessing He did not . . .
So why do you suppose they couldn't plant two different sorts of seed in the fields?? It has to be some kind of symbol, wonder how they worked getting different crops?
And not happy with the way the slave woman was treated in vs 20-22 -- I'm guessing this is why there were so many Southern slave women that were sexually abused back in the 1800s.
I love how God says - trust me and I will make your fruit trees be productive; I wonder how many other survival stages of life that works for - and we don't even think about it.
Some things we take, something we leave: we leave of the trimming of beards in vs 27 and pick up the stand in respect for the older people in 32 (at least we used to do this) Wonder who decides what works for today and what to leave behind - - - seems kind of fickle, like it should be all or none
Not too much for me out of Kings today. In regards to Hezekiah's story, the commentators brought out that a historian said there were rats and a plague that invaded the enemy camp besieging Jerusalem. Was that in lieu of the angel that killed everyone or in conjunction with? Wasn't really clear to me.
O, I did have 1 thought with Hezekiah being told he would die and then him pleading with God and getting 15 more years. It doesn't seem like God minds us dialoguing/asking Him for something different than what He gives. BUT to know when to stop asking and to surrender to His will is crucial.
Abraham asked for Sodom/Gomorrah. Moses asked for the Israelites numerous times; Paul asked 3 times for something to be taken from him and then submitted to God's will. Jesus asked 3 times for Him not to go to the cross, but He submitted as well - Thank You Jesus for saving me!
I think listening is the key, less talking - on my part anyway.
O wow Chris - good thought about ok to ask, but listen to know when to surrender; thanks for that!
The scribe in chpt 17 seems to get pretty steamed up about the unholy actions of the Israelites and Judels and did not heed the warning. They were stubborn . . . )
Fickle people too: "They feared Him while at the same time honoring the gods of the nations" seems like they were trying to cover all their bases -- all about "do" instead of worshiping/trusting in One!
Boy howdy - reading about Hezekiah is like a breath of fresh air -- it seemed like his subjects really respected him too -- (quiet at the wall when he told them to be) He must have been a very amazing leader, and so willing to give God all the glory. I love how it says the Eternal One's blessings covered Hezekiah.
I think the angel set the rats loose in the camp! Must have been like bubonic plague or something.
I love the word pic of H spreading that letter out in front of God and then recounting His power, His abilities -- if I would do the same with my problems . . .
Loved the freedom and exuberance expressed in 87:7 "Those who sing and those who dance will say together, "All my fountains of JOY are in You!"
Duane's brother Daryl came to mind as I read 88 "I am in a trap and cannot be free" "Since the days of my youth, I have been sick and close to death" He was 21 when he had the motorcycle accident - - now he's 56 - - 35 years is a long time to be trapped in a body - - I can't say I fully understand the despair that would lead to; the questions of why for God -- all I can think from the outside of that horror is that God has a bigger picture where in the end, the wrong will be made right.
89 sure had a switch in attitude (noted also in the comments)
So - focusing on the first part - 15 & 16 jumped out at me: How happy are those . . . who journey through life by the light of Your face! Every hour of the day, they rejoice at the sound of Your name." Those are inspiring words to me -- I don't live them, but it's how I want to live -- and HE promises if I am thirsty, He'll give me water without cost from the fountain of the water of life!! Lord - I'm parched!
Good stuff in Proverbs today; good to review! Lot about being careful with what you say before you say it -- keep the mouth shut; listen!!
Also -- several references to "those well advised" and "wise instruction" another reminder to seek wisdom -- arrogance and pride are HUGE roadblocks
I'm sure 13:11 was quoted by DR -- reminded me of the tortoise and the hare and how hard it is to let go of Uncle Ben!!
Hope postponed grieves the heart; but when a dream comes true, life is full and sweet -- a good text for me today. A grieved heart is not a bad thing -- and sweet that the hope is only postponed -- be patient dear Linda, I'll work it out in My time!
finally - had an epiphany on spare the rod, spoil the child -- I guess I've always thought of that as "the belt" and too harsh for my liking. But with the "spare the rod of discipline - quick to correct version, I thought of the shepherd. A shepherd uses the rod to redirect, to hook and save - he doesn't smash the rod down on the sheep; I like this new thought!
Pilot released the wicked; and killed the innocent - our world is so mixed up with evil; with peer pressure, with thirst for power. Thank you Jesus for Your sacrifice so that we have a hope of better days ahead.
"They put Jesus' cross on Simon's shoulders, and he followed behind Jesus" I was thinking this may be an illustration for our lives - - also thinking of that line in Revelation 14 "They followed the Lamb wherever He goes"
Jesus mindset is so different - Father Forgive them (the enemy) and healing the ear (the enemy back in the garden) Our world is filled with dominance, with power - - again, we are so upside down!
Love the way it talked about Joseph of A, doing what he could to write a terrible wrong.
Something I'd missed about Peter before; when everyone else doubted the women's stories - Peter checked it out, and the other thing -- when the 2 Emmaus guys returned, everyone said that Jesus had appeared to Peter. Now, when did that happen? I don't remember Peter having a one on One with Jesus until Jesus appeared in the room -- hmmmm, something to think on.
I love how Jesus asked the 2, what are you talking about? He knew exactly what they were talking about, but He wanted to hear their take on it -- hear them express their thoughts; then He had something to work with. Obviously, from their reply - they'd thrown in the towel -- now Jesus was only a mighty prophet to them. And I appreciate Jesus not throwing in the towel on them (us) when we waver (Like in the Shack) He works with us where we are - putting people, thoughts, experiences in our way, and uses the "rod" to guide us back on the path:)
Why are your hearts so sluggish -- thinking of slugs -- nothing pretty about them, nothing speedy about them - - nothing seems to move them any faster than their sluggy pace
Their eyes were finally opened, and He vanished. I think it's because He wanted them to share with others what had happened as opposed to focusing on His presence - - He wanted the good news to spread - - He still wants that to happen:)
It's when they were sharing the good news, that Jesus shows up -- hmmmm, wonder if that's still true?
The disciples returned again and again to the temple to celebrate God -- WOWOWOW - that's how church should be today!
I love the transparency of Paul -- not trying to please everybody -- but rather God - - who examines the motives. He didn't sandwich truth between cunning compliments - he told it straight; often harder to hear, but usually more effective, as the listener hears what they need to hear; and - - very unlike worldly-wise; he didn't make a single cent off of you - - that really gets people's attention - it really means; a servant heart.
ReplyDeleteThe mentor, Paul, tells them that he knows they have been chosen by God - very encouraging words to hear. Then he shares the reason, their life has been changed. Also good to hear your progress from a different perspective, it reminds you where you have come from and what God has been doing in your life. At times in our walk, we forget that and get weighed down with what we are struggling with currently. Very encouraging to hear that others have noticed the changes God is making in our lives.
ReplyDeleteIt is truly amazing that EVERY single place Paul went he encountered hostilities and yet, he kept on. He saw them for what they were - not attacks by people, but attacks from satan. He loved the people. His perspective had changed from a personal one to a godly one. This is what I desperately need. Not my will God, but Yours - all Yours. Please take over.
"Thank Me in the midst of the crucible. When things seem all wrong, look for growth opportunities. Especially look for areas where you need to let go, leaving your cares in My able hands. Do you trust Me to orchestrate your life events as I choose, or are you still trying to make things go according to your will? If you keep trying to carry out your intentions while I am leading you in another direction, you deify your desires." JC 140
ReplyDeleteAnother page said thanking God for my trial switches it from the negative focus of a problem and it ceases to have the power to trip me up.
I like these 2 thoughts today. Keeps bringing me back to the song He is With Us - by Love & the Outcome
Ahhhh Chris -- those words were good for me to hear today! Thank you; much more interesting and practical than Leviticus!!!
ReplyDeleteBUT - I do appreciate how God watches out for the poor, the neighbor, the hired hand and the disabled -- if He does it, and we're his children, I'm sure He's hoping we'll follow His example and not just think God's got it covered.
"Do not seek revenge or hod a grudge against any of your people. Instead, love your neighbor as you love yourself" It was neat to see where Jesus quoted this from; it reminds me that he carefully went through Lev - I found myself nodding off through part of it, but I'm guessing He did not . . .
So why do you suppose they couldn't plant two different sorts of seed in the fields?? It has to be some kind of symbol, wonder how they worked getting different crops?
And not happy with the way the slave woman was treated in vs 20-22 -- I'm guessing this is why there were so many Southern slave women that were sexually abused back in the 1800s.
I love how God says - trust me and I will make your fruit trees be productive; I wonder how many other survival stages of life that works for - and we don't even think about it.
Some things we take, something we leave: we leave of the trimming of beards in vs 27 and pick up the stand in respect for the older people in 32 (at least we used to do this) Wonder who decides what works for today and what to leave behind - - - seems kind of fickle, like it should be all or none
That's all for today!
Not too much for me out of Kings today. In regards to Hezekiah's story, the commentators brought out that a historian said there were rats and a plague that invaded the enemy camp besieging Jerusalem. Was that in lieu of the angel that killed everyone or in conjunction with? Wasn't really clear to me.
ReplyDeleteO, I did have 1 thought with Hezekiah being told he would die and then him pleading with God and getting 15 more years. It doesn't seem like God minds us dialoguing/asking Him for something different than what He gives. BUT to know when to stop asking and to surrender to His will is crucial.
Abraham asked for Sodom/Gomorrah. Moses asked for the Israelites numerous times; Paul asked 3 times for something to be taken from him and then submitted to God's will. Jesus asked 3 times for Him not to go to the cross, but He submitted as well - Thank You Jesus for saving me!
I think listening is the key, less talking - on my part anyway.
O wow Chris - good thought about ok to ask, but listen to know when to surrender; thanks for that!
ReplyDeleteThe scribe in chpt 17 seems to get pretty steamed up about the unholy actions of the Israelites and Judels and did not heed the warning. They were stubborn . . . )
Fickle people too: "They feared Him while at the same time honoring the gods of the nations" seems like they were trying to cover all their bases -- all about "do" instead of worshiping/trusting in One!
Boy howdy - reading about Hezekiah is like a breath of fresh air -- it seemed like his subjects really respected him too -- (quiet at the wall when he told them to be) He must have been a very amazing leader, and so willing to give God all the glory. I love how it says the Eternal One's blessings covered Hezekiah.
I think the angel set the rats loose in the camp! Must have been like bubonic plague or something.
I love the word pic of H spreading that letter out in front of God and then recounting His power, His abilities -- if I would do the same with my problems . . .
Loved the freedom and exuberance expressed in 87:7 "Those who sing and those who dance will say together, "All my fountains of JOY are in You!"
ReplyDeleteDuane's brother Daryl came to mind as I read 88 "I am in a trap and cannot be free" "Since the days of my youth, I have been sick and close to death" He was 21 when he had the motorcycle accident - - now he's 56 - - 35 years is a long time to be trapped in a body - - I can't say I fully understand the despair that would lead to; the questions of why for God -- all I can think from the outside of that horror is that God has a bigger picture where in the end, the wrong will be made right.
89 sure had a switch in attitude (noted also in the comments)
So - focusing on the first part - 15 & 16 jumped out at me: How happy are those . . . who journey through life by the light of Your face! Every hour of the day, they rejoice at the sound of Your name." Those are inspiring words to me -- I don't live them, but it's how I want to live -- and HE promises if I am thirsty, He'll give me water without cost from the fountain of the water of life!! Lord - I'm parched!
Good stuff in Proverbs today; good to review! Lot about being careful with what you say before you say it -- keep the mouth shut; listen!!
ReplyDeleteAlso -- several references to "those well advised" and "wise instruction" another reminder to seek wisdom -- arrogance and pride are HUGE roadblocks
I'm sure 13:11 was quoted by DR -- reminded me of the tortoise and the hare and how hard it is to let go of Uncle Ben!!
Hope postponed grieves the heart; but when a dream comes true, life is full and sweet -- a good text for me today. A grieved heart is not a bad thing -- and sweet that the hope is only postponed -- be patient dear Linda, I'll work it out in My time!
finally - had an epiphany on spare the rod, spoil the child -- I guess I've always thought of that as "the belt" and too harsh for my liking. But with the "spare the rod of discipline - quick to correct version, I thought of the shepherd. A shepherd uses the rod to redirect, to hook and save - he doesn't smash the rod down on the sheep; I like this new thought!
Who is DR? I like that epiphany as I always think of the belt too.
ReplyDeleteDR - Dave Ramsy
ReplyDeletePilot released the wicked; and killed the innocent - our world is so mixed up with evil; with peer pressure, with thirst for power. Thank you Jesus for Your sacrifice so that we have a hope of better days ahead.
"They put Jesus' cross on Simon's shoulders, and he followed behind Jesus" I was thinking this may be an illustration for our lives - - also thinking of that line in Revelation 14 "They followed the Lamb wherever He goes"
Jesus mindset is so different - Father Forgive them (the enemy) and healing the ear (the enemy back in the garden) Our world is filled with dominance, with power - - again, we are so upside down!
Love the way it talked about Joseph of A, doing what he could to write a terrible wrong.
Something I'd missed about Peter before; when everyone else doubted the women's stories - Peter checked it out, and the other thing -- when the 2 Emmaus guys returned, everyone said that Jesus had appeared to Peter. Now, when did that happen? I don't remember Peter having a one on One with Jesus until Jesus appeared in the room -- hmmmm, something to think on.
I love how Jesus asked the 2, what are you talking about? He knew exactly what they were talking about, but He wanted to hear their take on it -- hear them express their thoughts; then He had something to work with. Obviously, from their reply - they'd thrown in the towel -- now Jesus was only a mighty prophet to them. And I appreciate Jesus not throwing in the towel on them (us) when we waver (Like in the Shack) He works with us where we are - putting people, thoughts, experiences in our way, and uses the "rod" to guide us back on the path:)
Why are your hearts so sluggish -- thinking of slugs -- nothing pretty about them, nothing speedy about them - - nothing seems to move them any faster than their sluggy pace
Their eyes were finally opened, and He vanished. I think it's because He wanted them to share with others what had happened as opposed to focusing on His presence - - He wanted the good news to spread - - He still wants that to happen:)
It's when they were sharing the good news, that Jesus shows up -- hmmmm, wonder if that's still true?
The disciples returned again and again to the temple to celebrate God -- WOWOWOW - that's how church should be today!