Lamb of God/Deliverer--Day 31 of Through the Bible

                                      My grandmother and mother "pulled galax" and sold them
                                      in order to help provide for the basic needs of their families.


January 31

The gleanings from these studies are as personal as we are. At times they seem to flow while at other times it seems we must "pull" them. Through this study it is becoming more evident to me the extent that God is involved in our lives—more so than I have perhaps understood up until now. Throughout the Bible God reveals Himself to us by His names. He never changes--we continue to experience His hand of deliverance in our lives today. He offers deliverance to the world from sin just as He delivered the nation of Israel from Egypt. God reveals in Exodus how He knows who His people are and He can meticulously separate us out. His greatness is further revealed as He targeted the firstborn of people and animals in Egypt.

God’s ways are far above our ways—His ordinances and plans span eternity! More than fourteen hundred years before Jesus ate the Passover with His twelve disciples, God instituted this ordinance which is rich with spiritual symbolism. Jesus and His disciples would observe this 1400 year ordinance on the eve of His death with new meaning. He would institute a memorial of his death with symbols of unleavened bread and wine that represent His body and His blood given for the salvation of the world. The Lamb of God lived the perfect life without sin. The lamb that was chosen for each family in Egypt was also to be without blemish. Not a bone of the Passover lamb was to be broken—not a bone in Jesus’ body was broken during the unmerciful beating of His body and crucifixion. The door posts and lintels of Israel's houses had been smeared with blood by using hyssop as God instructed them. (Hyssop is an herb that was used for cleaning sacred places. The Israelites were instructed to dip hyssop in the lamb’s blood and smear it on their doors. In John 19:29, during Jesus’ crucifixion, hyssop is also mentioned, “and they filled a sponge with vinegar, and put it upon hyssop, and put it into his mouth”.)

After Moses instructed the elders in what they were to do in order to prevent the death of the firstborn in Israel, Exodus 12:27, says, “So the people bowed their heads & worshiped”. David also worshiped the Lord in Psalm 18, when God delivered him from Saul. He exalts God in this Psalm by saying, “The Lord is my fortress and my deliverer; My God, my strength, in whom I will trust”.  He spares our lives (we all have our stories), and God ultimately gives us the promise of eternal life. David’s despair in Psalms 18:1-6, was answered by God in one of the most passionately written passages in the Bible. David was facing death and called out to God in His distress. I love this part: “He heard my voice from His temple, and my cry came before Him, even to His ears”. God’s response to David is described as follows:

“Then the earth shook and trembled, the foundations of the hills also quaked and were shaken, because He was angry. Smoke went up from His nostrils, and devouring fire from His mouth; coals were kindled by it. He bowed the heavens also, and came down with darkness under His feet. And He rode upon a cherub, and flew; He flew upon the wings of the wind. He made darkness His secret place; His canopy around Him was dark waters and thick clouds of the skies. From the brightness before Him, His thick clouds passes with hailstones and coals of fire”. 

Oh, that we could get a glimpse of God’s passion when He rescues us—it would surely ignite our passion for Him!  No wonder Israel bowed their heads and worshiped! God was delivering them from four hundred and thirty years of captivity and had devastated Egypt during the process. God had His hand on them as they no doubt witnessed plague after plague that devastated Egypt. How thankful to God they must have been when God instructed them in what to do in order to be spared from the death of their firstborn.

The "Lamb of God^" atoned for the sins of the world. God provided this sacrifice for us from the foundation of the world (Rev. 13:8). He will never attempt to force us to accept His sacrifice for our sins, however, He does advise us in Deuteronomy 30:19, to choose life!

Unwitting Agents and God's Grace - Day 30 Through the Bible

The award-winning Parkway Playhouse in our historic hometown of Burnsville, NC - the oldest continuously operating summer theater in North Carolina

The Great Drama Before Us and Lessons Learned

1) "God uses His enemies and ours as unwitting agents in accomplishing His Will." (Author Unknown) - Ex. 9:16 God speaking to Pharaoh -But indeed I have raised you up, that I may show My power in you, and that My name may be declared in all the earth.  We will see this throughout our year of study.  We know He uses His people in the Bible - and us - today, but He also uses His enemies and ours.  Am I able to look at difficult people from this perspective?  Can I view the lives of those who have deliberately, intentionally, malevolently harmed me as being used by God for a greater good - as part of His overall Plan?  This should make it much easier for me to rest in "Vengeance is Mine, says the LORD."

2)  God brings us out of bondage to serve Him. (Ex. 9:1 and stated numerous times throughout the Exodus saga) Let My people go, that they may serve Me (emphasis mine). Songs and quotes used in our culture based on this Biblical account almost invariably leave off the second part of the command.  My salvation is free - of grace only.  But my works - my service back to God - is evidence of that salvation and my devotion to Him. (James 2:26)  As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead. And recall this from Jesus in our study this week (Matt 16:27): For the Son of Man will come in the glory of His Father with His angels, and then He will reward each according to His works. Is my service to Him - or for others or myself?  Is my life being used to bring glory to God?

3) Arise, O LORD...Confront...Cast down....Deliver (Ps. 17:18-15) This is a daily prayer of mine - that God will bring down corruption in all its forms, in all places in our nation and around the world while keeping us as believers "under the shadow of His wing, as the apple of His eye."  Am I renewing my mind daily with God's Word and walking in His light - in every conversation, situation, decision of my life?  Am I following the Holy Spirit's leading in each moment - both for intercessory prayer on behalf of others and in keeping my walk pure before God?

4) God sees the oppression of His people.  He WILL act, in His time, in His Way, for His glory.  Just as with the Israelites in Egypt, with Joseph in His trials, from Day 1 of this study through the Bible and throughout our lives, God is omniscient, omnipresent, omnipotent.  He loves us.  We are the "apple of His eye."  His Master Plan is to bring us into a closer relationship with Him for all eternity.  For the ways of man are before the eyes of the LORD, and He ponders all his paths. (Proverbs 5:21-23)  The world will always try to pull us away from this eternal perspective.  Only my most treasured times alone with Him keep me in this truth.  How, then, could He allow all this to happen me?  For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, unless you grow weary and become discouraged in your souls. Heb. 12:3  Turn your eyes upon Jesus.

5) Amazing Grace- Matthew 10:1-16 When I look at this teaching of Jesus from an economic perspective, it screams unfairness.  We see way too much of this today with those who do the most efficient, effective work getting less than those who might even bring corporations down and walk away with millions in bonuses.  Again, I have to strip away the veneer of the world to get down to the meat of the gospel.  It is not about money - imagine this!  It is about grace.  It is about there being enough of His marvelous, amazing grace for those who have believed from childhood, to those coming to Him as an adolescent, as an adult, as an elderly person, as a person lying on his deathbed - at every hour, at every stage and age of life.  It is, I believe, also about those first sent out into kingdom work, those not yet chosen..it is about me...it is maybe about you.  "Many are called, but few are chosen", Jesus says (the doctrine of election again).  Are we standing where we need to be...ready for Him to choose us...to send us into His vineyard to work...to bring in His harvest...to glorify Him?

Drink From the Cup--Day 29 of Through the Bible

                              One of many Yancey County creeks to be enjoyed during a hike.

January 29

In a previous study, God was angry with Moses because he kept coming up with excuses and finally just told God to get someone else. In Exodus 7:1, it seems God may be smiling when He tells Moses, "See, I have made you as God to Pharoah, and Aaron your brother shall be your prophet". God is very patient with us and remembers we are "dust" (Psalms 103:14). Thankfully, His love covers a multitude of our sins (I Peter 4:8) and weaknesses!

God told Moses up front that He planned to harden Pharoah's heart and multiply His signs and wonders in Egypt so that they would know He is the Lord when He brought Israel out of Egypt. God wants people to know Him and know His power. In His wisdom He chooses how He reveals Himself to us.

The Egyptian magicians were able to replicate some of the signs God did through Moses. They turned water into blood and brought up frogs on the land. (Wasn't that ridiculous--adding to the problems they already had!)  Things went exactly according to God's plan; even the magicians realized, "This is the finger of God". It's also worth noting that God did not clean up the mess for them. They had to gather the dead frogs together into heaps out of the houses, courtyards, and fields--and the land stank. Hopefully, when we have to clean up enough of what our sins have wrought, we will begin to get the message. There's a reason God allows us to reap what we sow. (Unfortunately, our culture is now out of control due to not understanding this principle; children at a young age need to be taught that what they do has consequences so that they will make wise choices in their behavior as they grow into adulthood.) David said in Psalms 17:4, "I have kept away from the paths of the destroyer". I have found it amazing how our daily readings sometimes mesh. God's principles never change; they apply in a multitude of scenarios.

In Proverbs 5, Solomon discusses "moral boundaries" with his son. This certainly applies to the reader also, as "All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness" (2 Tim. 3:16). Again, there is a connection with this scripture in Proverbs and the scriptures in Matthew 19, regarding divorce and adultery. As Dr. Stanley points out in Life Examples--people tend to ask the wrong questions. Many times our motives become obvious by our questions. The Pharisees asked Jesus whether it was lawful to get a divorce for just any reason. He knew, of course, that they were testing Him (v. 3). After Jesus answered the Pharisees, the disciples came to the conclusion that it might be better not to marry. Jesus went on to explain that some are able to remain single, but some are not able to do so. We are created physically equipped for marriage and God said it was not good for man to be alone, however, He allows us to choose whether we marry or remain single.

I found it interesting that when asked "which" commandments, Jesus only addressed the last six commandments with the rich young ruler. The first four of the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20) addresses our relationship with God, while the last six address our relationships with each other. The young man said he had kept (the last six) from his youth and asked what he lacked doing in order to have eternal life. Jesus told him if he wanted to be perfect to sell all he had, give it to the poor and he would have treasure in heaven, and to come follow Him. However, he went away sorrowful because he had great possessions--he evidently knew this was not an option for him.

As Dr. Stanley brings out, people want to know what they can DO, in order to be saved. We cannot DO anything that will give us salvation. We are born into sin and it is not possible for us to not sin--it is our nature. The rich young ruler needed his sins paid for and he was talking to the God-Man who was destined to die in his place in order to do just this. He went away sorrowful because he had asked the wrong question. If he had asked, "how can my sins be forgiven", he could have left rejoicing. Instead, he left discouraged--this is where we find ourselves when we try to earn salvation. Recognizing our need for a Savior changes our focus as we realize there is nothing WE can do to be saved. We can have many possessions, yet salvation belongs to the Lord and He has made it available to "whosoever believes in Him (John 3:16).  The Psalmist said in Psalms 116:13, "I will take the cup of salvation, and call upon the name of the Lord".

Biblical vs. World Perspective - Day 28 Through The Bible

 We have more artists, per capita, in Yancey and Mitchell Counties than anywhere else in America.  We are the home to the world-renowned Penland School of Crafts.  Many of our artists are nationally and internationally acclaimed and many have had their work in the Smithsonian.  Art media - including glass blowing, pottery, basket weaving, textiles, handmade jewelry (Matt Willig above) trashformation art (Rolf Holmquist) and more can be enjoyed at our bi-annual TRAC Open Studio Tours.

Gleanings from Today's Readings

1) World Perspective vs. Christian perspective (Gen 5:1 - 6:30)  Greed and power (money) are the gods of the ages.  Unless I constantly put first things first, I will be engulfed in this.  There is no such thing as "enough" from the world's standard - always "more" is needed.  Many other sins follow this idolatry - including oppression and abuse of others to maintain one's control.  I must constantly put God and my relationship with Him first in my life.  I must move away from the world system's domination of my life.  I have done this the past 4 1/2 years by having no TV connection, carefully choosing books, movies, and other information sources that have an insidious way of desensitizing us to immorality and promoting consumerism.  My daily prayer is that God will change my thinking and desires to His.  Matthew 6:33  Seek ye first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you.  We are called to be holy, separate.  Am I obeying this in all ways?

2) True Joy and Wisdom Come From the LORD (Psalm 16:7-11) He gives me counsel, instructs me...I always set Him before me...because He is at my right hand I shall not be moved, be glad, rejoice, rest in hope, be shown the path of life, have fullness of joy and pleasure forevermore.  The Bible makes a distinction between "happy" as the world views it, and Biblical "joy."  The latter to me is more of a resting in Him - knowing that the trials and sufferings of this present age for the believer have a very different eternal perspective and purpose.  THIS is the most difficult "renewing of the mind."  Just as the trials and oppression of the Israelites increased with God's intervention, they would lead - ultimately - to His greatest blessings.  Their part was obedience and trusting Him.

3) Called Apart - (Proverbs 5:7-14) and the Genesis reading - Things would not change for the Israelites until they separated themselves from the Egyptians, and this would not be an easy thing because they were the means of the great wealth of the Egyptians - their labor force.  This is also the warning of Proverbs.  A father warns his children to hear, not depart from, remove your way far from, do not go near (immorality)...OR you will give your honor to others, your years to the cruel one, aliens will be filled with your wealth, your labors will go the house of a foreigner, you will mourn, and your flesh and your body will be consumed...WHY? You hated,...despised, did not not obey, did not incline your year to instruction and were on the verge of total ruin.  Am I heeding these warnings in my own life, willing to forego monetary advantage, relationships (familial or other) that pull me away from God's instructions?

4) Forgiveness and Separation (Matthew 18:21-35) Here Jesus says to forgive the brother who has sinned against us 70 times 7 - with the implication to not limit our forgiveness.  So how does this go with Jesus's command in yesterday's reading on the steps to restore relationships (Matt. 18: 15-17) - go the offending brother alone, then take witnesses, then go the church, then count him as a heathen, if he refuses to hear?  The difference I see is in the repentant, hearing heart of the offender. The servant in the parable fell before the master asking for patience, promising to repay all (v 26).  This contrite spirit moved the master to compassion, to release and forgiveness of the debt. (v. 27).  Then we are given the contrasting scene of the repentant sinner and the oppressive, unforgiving fellow servant.  Our warning is to forgive others - from the heart - if we expect God to forgive us.  To forgive with compassion and yet to be holy/separate from the world...it is a difficult - impossible - journey without the enabling of the Holy Spirit.

5) The Holy Spirit - When you surrender to the control of God's Spirit, you'll find Him producing amazing things in you--things that are entirely of His doing. Paul calls those marvelous blessings the fruit of the Spirit, and they are: "love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control" (Gal. 5:22-23). The person who is Spirit-filled and who bears the Spirit's fruit is the person who belongs to Christ and who has "crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live by the Spirit," Paul continued, "let us also walk by the Spirit" (Gal. 5:24-25). To be filled by and walk in the Spirit is to fulfill your ultimate potential of your life on earth as one of God's children.  John MacArthur - Grace to You.org

Professing vs. Possessing Faith - Day 27 Through the Bible

Town Square in our historic hometown - Burnsville, NC - the site of  our community prayer gatherings

My Lessons and Applications from Today's Readings

1) Burning Bush Experiences - Moses deliberately turned aside to contemplate this phenomenon (Gen. 3:3)  This is where the Angel of the Lord (most NT scholars believe this to be the pre-incarnate Christ) appeared and spoke to Moses.  This was evidently a normal day, doing his everyday job of shepherding the flock.  God calls him to a different flock to shepherd - His people, Israel.  Am I watching and listening for God in the routine of daily life?  Am I doing "my utmost for His highest" where I am, understanding that this may be a preparation time for another calling?  Lesson:  "Work as unto the Lord", but never let work take precedence over my relationship and time with the Lord.  Look for Him everywhere in all things.

2) Humility or Obstinacy - Ex. 3-4 Here I am, Lord.  Send Aaron! Both the Genesis and Matthew readings today give great lessons in humility.  Moses was called the most humble/meek man on earth (Numbers 12:3).  But even he roused the Lord's anger with his hesitancy/self-debasement - "Who am I?...(It's not who you are, Moses, but Who I AM) but suppose they will not believe me, suppose they say...(What's that in your hand - OK, Moses, here's a miracle and 2 others for you to convince them)...but I'm not eloquent...slow of speech and tongue...(I made you, "I will be with your mouth and teach you what to say"(v. 11)..oh, Lord, please - send somebody else (v. 13)...the anger of the Lord was kindled against Moses (v 14).  Why will I not take God at His Word?  Why do I continue to want more signs and more proof that this is a calling from Him? (Matthew 12:39 - a wicked and adulterous generation wants more signs.)  Jesus says we must be converted to be as humble as a young child to be the greatest in heaven - this doesn't come naturally - we must change - learn to trust Him. (Matthew 18: 2-5)

3) Warnings - Both the Proverbs and Matthew readings have warnings regarding certain human relationships.  In Proverbs 5:1-6 a father warns his son of the danger and destruction of an immoral woman and the essence of hearing, obeying, preserving, keeping wisdom, discretion, understanding and knowledge to avoid this pitfall.  Jesus warns against the eternal damnation of anyone causing "any of these little ones who believe in Me to sin...Take heed, that you do not despise one of these little ones, for I say to you that in heaven their angels always see the face of My Father who is in heaven.  (Matt. 18:6,10)  

Am I maintaining this perspective of avoiding the pitfalls of immorality and making sure that my actions and words do not cause children or others to sin?

4) Evangelism - "For the Son of Man has come to save that which was lost." (Matt 3:11)  Are we reaching out to our families, our community, our nation, our world - not to condemn - but to bring the gospel to all people (adults and children) - of every nation, tribe, language and people? (Rev 5:9)

5) Restoring Relationships in the Church - (Matt 18:15) Jesus says the first step is to go and tell the brother that sinned against you - "between you and him alone."  If he will not hear, then take 1 or 2 witnesses; if that fails, then take it to the church.  If that fails, the relationship is to become as with a heathen.  This is severe in its final stage and is Romans 1:24-32 in God's dealing with unrepentant sin. Charles Spurgeon pinpointed a stark distinction in Christendom - professing vs. possessing Christianity.    Do my words, my actions, my life show my possession (not merely the profession) of the gospel of Christ?  Am I willing to restore relationships when possible (in and through Christ) and let them go when not?  Do I follow this mandate of Christ?

6) Binding and Loosing...(Matt. 18:18) - "Assuredly, I say to you whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose one earth, will be loosed in heaven." This was also Jesus's statement to Peter (Matt 16:19) I have read and heard different sermons on this that are not in agreement as to the meaning.  More prayer, meditation and study needed on this to know what the lesson and application might be...

7) Heavenly Impact of Communal Prayer/Gathering (Matt 18:19) "where two of you agree...where two or three or gathered together... Do I remember how sacred and holy worship time is?  Do I recognize that Jesus is there in the midst of us?  Do I remember and utilize the power of prayer - in my own "closet" or together with another believer?  

Be ready for the sudden surprise visits of God.  A ready person never needs to get ready.  Think of the time we waste trying to get ready when God has called!  The burning bush is a symbol of everything that surrounds the ready soul; it is ablaze with the presence of God.  Oswald Chambers - My Utmost for His Highest.

Great Faith--Day 26 of Through the Bible

                     Table Rock, located in Burke County and situated on the east rim of Linville Gorge,
                                            is the most recognizable prominent peak in this area.
                          It is visible from many locations in the area including the Blue Ridge Parkway.
                                        It is a popular attraction for hikers as well as rock climbers.
                      

January 26

Let’s begin in Proverbs verse 25 & 26, and focus on two admonitions, and apply them to the subject of faith (belief), “Let your eyes look straight ahead”. “And let all your ways be established”.

These Scriptures have a connection with our study in Matthew for Jan. 24^th. This is too good not to review, especially in light of these verses in Proverbs. In Matt 15:21-28, it became clear to me, for the first time, what Jesus is teaching in this passage. (I’m using present tense--is teaching--because He continues to teach us today.) A Gentile woman asked for healing for her daughter. Jesus ignored her—“He answered her not a word”. She asked again & He said he was only sent to the lost sheep of Israel. Then she came & worshiped Him & asked Him to help her. Again, He did not help her, but told her it wasn't appropriate to take the children's bread & give it to the little dogs. She even agreed with what He said, but told him “yet even the little dogs get a few crumbs which fall from their masters’ table”. He said, “O woman, great is your faith! Let it be to you as you desire, and her daughter was healed from that very hour".

I've read this passage many times; however I now see it in a new light. What this woman did is an example of great faith—Jesus said it was; therefore, we can hopefully better understand faith by understanding what was going on in this passage. What did she do that showed great faith? She believed Jesus could heal her daughter and she remained focused on this--she did not allow anything that was said or done to discourage her. She could have focused on the fact that Jesus ignored her, become discouraged, and could have just gone away. Or, she could have accepted any of the reasons He gave that it was not appropriate for Him to heal her daughter.

Nevertheless, her focus remained on Jesus healing her daughter. She did not give in to circumstances. She did not give up! She knew He could heal her daughter. She let nothing deter her. Regardless of circumstances that said her daughter could not be healed, she continued to pursue healing. She remained focused on what she knew Jesus could do. Her eyes looked straight ahead and she was obviously established in her faith (Proverbs 4:25, 26). This was great faith in action! And, because of her unwavering faith, her persistence in the face of opposition, her daughter received healing. This is an eye-opening lesson that reveals unwavering, persistent faith.

Also, if she had placed her trust in anyone or anything besides Jesus, her daughter would not have been healed. Her faith was in Jesus—the Almighty God, the only one who can actually heal. Faith is not blind—faith focuses on God!

Until Shiloh Comes - Day 25 Through the Bible

Historic Altapass Orchard - located just off the Blue Ridge Parkway - near Mt. Celo Church - heritage apples, clogging (NC dance), BBQ, local crafts for purchase, hayrides and more - preserving the past for future generations

My Lessons and Applications from Today's Readings

1) Heritage - The Blessing of a Patriarch to Future Generations - Israel (Jacob):  "Gather together that I may tell you what shall befall you in the future."  Gen.49:1  Most of this is not too surprising since the past will impact the future:

• Reuben, the eldest - Loss of blessing because of sexual sin  - Progeny:  Andrew, the apostle
• Simeon and Levi - Curse because of uncontrolled anger -   Levitic tribe has a blessing restored for their faithfulness in the wilderness.  Simeon's Progeny:  apostle Thomas; Levi's Progeny: Moses*, Aaron, Eli, and John the Baptist, apostle Matthew (*Note:  some dispute about the lineage of Moses - After the Davidic kingdom Judah, Benjamin and Levi form the southern kingdom of Israel.  The rest of the tribes form the northern kingdom.  More on this with our future readings.
• Judah - Great Blessing - "From the prey you have gone up"(v 9) - Progeny: David, Jesus Christ and Peter are of this tribe "The scepter shall not depart from Judah nor a lawgiver between His feet until Shiloh comes".  Messianic prophecies follow this (v 8-13)
• Zebulun - Blessing - Progeny: apostle Thaddeus
• Issachar - Loss of Blessing - Slavery -  Progeny:  apostle James A.
• Dan - Blessing - judge of his people - Progeny: Samson (*see note for others)
• Gad, Asher Naphtali - Lesser Blessings - Progeny: apostles James Z, John Z and Philip, respectively
• Joseph - Great Blessings - "By the hands of he Mighty God of Jacob (From there is the Shepherd, the Stone of Israel),"  God used Joseph to preserve the line of Christ.  Progeny of Joseph: Joshua, Gideon and Samuel, apostle Simon (the Zealot); apostle Bartholomew from Manasseh
• Benjamin - Blessings - Progeny: Saul, Mordecai, Esther and Paul (*see note for other)

*Note:  The apostles Matthias and Judas (the betrayer) are listed with both the tribes of Dan and Benjamin in the source I used (see below).  

2) Evil/Adversity/Good - Joseph's great statement of faith to his brothers who sold him into slavery: "You meant it for evil, but God meant it for good".  (Gen. 50:20)  What looks so hopeless in the world's eyes, God often uses for the greatest good.  Joseph's life is one example.  The life of Christ - his crucifixion and resurrection as the Substitute for our sins - is the greatest example.

3) Depravity of Man/The Need for a Savior (The Importance of Studying the Old Testament to Understand the New Testament) - Ps. 14:1-7) ..."all have turned aside, together they have become corrupt, none who does good, no not one...but the LORD is his refuge...oh, that the salvation of the Lord would come out of Zion, when the LORD brings back the captivity of His people, let Jacob rejoice and Israel be glad."

4) A Daily Reminder - Importance of Studying God's Word (Proverbs) - "give attention to...incline your ear to...do not let them depart...keep them (my words, my sayings)...they are life and health...keep your heart with all diligence for out of it springs the issues of life...put away deceit and perversity..."

5) Remember/Discern/Follow Christ - (Matt 16:1-8)  The disciples forgot Jesus' miracles right after they occurred.  Do I remember/recall His faithfulness to me when I am discouraged?  I am to discern the times - until Shiloh comes.  He is the Christ, the Son of the Living God.  His command to me as a follower: Deny myself, take up my cross, follow Him...it is no profit to gain the whole world and lose my soul..keep the eternal perspective...For the Son of Man will come in the glory of His Father with His angels, and then He will reward each according to his works." (v 27)

O Jesus, if You do not come in person to Your waiting church today, then come through Your Spirit to my longing heart and make it "sing for joy."  (Ps. 67:4) Morning by Morning by Charles Spurgeon

Sources

12 Tribes of Israel and Their Important Descendants

Bible Tribes - 12 Apostles

Until the Lord Returns - Korean Christian vocalist So Hyang singing in Korean - the world awaits His return

Family Relations 101--Day 24 of Through the Bible

                             A favorite mountain tradition are family reunions centered around               

                                        an annual "Decoration Day at the family cemetery.          

                            Families place flowers on loved ones graves, meet friends and family

                                             and then enjoy a picnic or meal together.

January 24

Genesis 47:29-30

The subject of today’s study in Genesis might easily be titled, Family Relations 101. Jacob knew the end of his life was drawing near and even his plans for his own burial included his desire for his body to be buried alongside his deceased family members. He made Joseph promise he would not bury him in Egypt. This family was large and had been through a great deal, yet the family was intact when Jacob came to the end of his life.

Lesson: There is a blessing in being able to trust family members.

How to apply it: Set an example of honesty and integrity for my family; uphold these values in all that I undertake. Develop a reputation of  being trustworthy. Speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15). Always keep my word!

Verse 3: Jacob recognized God’s hand in his life and recounted the ways God had blessed him.

Lesson: It is important to see God’s hand in our lives and to remember the ways He has blessed us. Recounting our blessings creates an increased awareness of God and keeps us from drifting away from Him, as well as increasing our faith.

How to apply it: Make a point of recognizing blessings and answers to prayer; write them in a journal along with the date. Give thanks to God for all He does for us.

Verse 10: Jacob kissed his grand sons & embraced them.

Lesson: Show affection to family members.

How to apply it: Intentionally be affectionate to my family. Tell them how much I love them and how special they are to me. Make amends where needed and never hesitate to be the first to say "I'm sorry". Always say  goodbye to each and every one before leaving a family get-together. It could be my last opportunity to tell someone how much I appreciate and love them.

Verse 11: And Israel said to Joseph, “I had not thought to see your face; but in fact, God has also shown me your offspring”.

Lesson: God goes above and beyond what we expect. God is generous!

How to apply it: Practice generosity in what I do for others, especially where my family is concerned. Surprise them on occasion with unexpected acts of kindness. Seek to be known as a generous person.

Verse 21: Then Israel said to Joseph, “Behold, I am dying, but God will be with you and bring you back to the land of your fathers”.

Lesson: I will one day have to say goodbye to my earthly family; I can experience peace knowing I am leaving them in God’s care.

How to apply it: Recognize that my life will have an end. Use my time wisely. Ask God to help me live in such a way that should I die unexpectedly there will be no unfinished business with anyone—especially a family member. Pray for each family member on a regular basis; ask God to take care of them and bless them especially when I am gone.

Transforming Evil into Good - Day 23 of Through the Bible

Crabtree Falls off of the Blue Ridge Parkway near Mt. Celo Church - a favorite hike

Lessons I learned from Today's Readings

1) The Sovereignty and Providence of God - Joseph told his brothers to not be angry with themselves for selling him into slavery because "God sent me before you to preserve life...to preserve a posterity for you in the earth, to bring about a great deliverance." Gen. 45:5,7). Joseph never blamed God through all his trials and oppression.  He obeyed God in all things and left the consequences to Him."So now it was not you who sent me here, but God, and He has made me father...ruler...lord over all Egypt." (Gen. 45: 8)

2) The Machinations and Manipulations of Man - When I get discouraged, I recall the length of time it was before God acted on behalf of two of his most blessed servants:  David's anointing to his crowning as king - 7 long years of horror; Joseph - 12 + years before the tables were turned on his brothers.  I now underline this length of time as I study the Bible-  the 400 years (Jews in Egypt), the 40 years (Moses in the desert), 20 years (Jacob serving Laban), etc - to keep my own patience in waiting for "the LORD's arising".  Of course, as Dr. Stanley points out in his "Answers to Life's Questions", this wait may be our own sin or waiting on God's own plan or purposes.  Either way, He has not forgotten.A warning - from today's Proverbs (4:4-1) Do not enter the path of the wicked..do not walk in...avoid it...do not travel on...turn away from...pass on...from the wicked...for they do not sleep unless they have done evil, and their sleep is taken away unless they make someone fall.  For they eat the bread of wickedness,and drink the wine of violence.For the oppression of the poor, for the sighing of the needy, Now I will arise, says the LORD.  I will set him in the safety for which he yearns.  Psalm 12:5 from our Readings today.

3) Transforming Evil into Good  - one of the first and great lessons in Genesis (which, of course, means "beginning") is that believers have to understand that this world has dimensions/meanings/purposes beyond the here the now.  What happens to God's people is part of His overall plan - with Joseph "to preserve a posterity."  This is the line of Christ (Judah) being saved as we will see again and again throughout our year of study.  (Recall the promises God made to Abraham, Issac, Jacob, Joseph - they are all being fulfilled.) BUT this is certainly no "easy believism" - not in these saints' lives or in ours. But as for you, you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, in order to bring it about as it is this day, to save many people alive.  (Genesis 50:20)

4) But God...I heard a sermon on these two words once, and it changed the way I read and understood the Bible.  Man has one way of doing things, but God has another and has interceded throughout the malevolent history of man to bring man back into a relationship with Him - here using Joseph to preserve and restore his sinful brothers...to preserve and restore us as sinners later through Jesus Christ. For My thoughts are not your thoughts,
Nor are your ways My ways,” says the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth,
So are My ways higher than your ways,
And My thoughts than your thoughts. Isaiah 53: 8-9

5) Origin/Importance/Impact of Words - we saw the impact and difference of the words from Joseph's brothers at the time of the crime, their words in repentance now, and Joseph's words of braggadocio as a young favored son juxtaposed to his words now as a godly and tried soul before God.  Our Psalm, Proverb and Matthew Readings all deal with the impact and origin of words and why we should be careful before we speak.  Even more importantly, our minds and hearts have to be transformed, renewed by our study of God's Word (Romans 12:2) before our words and actions will be in obedience to God. They speak idly everyone...with flattering lips and a double heart they speak...speak proud things..who said with our tongue we will prevail our lips are our own...the words of the LORD are pure words..You shall keep them, O LORD, You shall preserve them from this generation forever. (Ps. 12:1-8);  These people draw near to Me with their mouth, and honor Me with their lips, but their heart is far from Me, and in vain they worship Me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.  (Jesus quoting Isaiah) Matt. 15: 8-9 Hear and understand, Jesus says, not what goes into the mouth defiles a man, but what comes out of the mouth - this defiles a man...but those things which proceed out of the mouth come from the heart, and they defile a man.  For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies.  These are the things which defile a man, but to eat with unwashed hands does not defile a man.  Matt. 15: 10-16


Out of the heart proceed . . . — Matthew 15:18-20

We begin by trusting our ignorance and calling it innocence, by trusting our innocence and calling it purity; and when we hear these rugged statements of Our Lord’s, we shrink and say – But I never felt any of those awful things in my heart. We resent what Jesus Christ reveals.  Oswald Chambers - My Utmost for His Highest

Grow in Faith--Day 22 Through the Bible

January 22

(If you are wondering why there were 2 posts for Jan 21, it was due to a "senior moment" on my part.)

I would like for us to consider the Growing in Our Faith commentary written by Dr. Stanley in today's study. In Romans 13:3, God says He has dealt a measure of faith to every person. This might remind us of the parable of the talents where each person was given a reward comparable to the increase of their lord's investment. Could it be God has given us a measure of faith and we are responsible for seeing that it grows?
(How we dread the word "responsibility"! However, let's push past the thoughts that originate in our human nature and listen to what God is teaching us through this study.)

We see that Jesus expects us to USE our faith--to exercise it--which results in increased faith. Just as using our muscles can increase their size, even so--exercising our faith can increase the amount of faith we have. Dr. Stanley says that: "We grow in faith when we:
1) Hear from God
2) Obey what He says, and then
3) Acknowledge God's faithfulness to His word in our lives."

Romans 10:17, teaches us that "faith comes by hearing the word of God". We must obey what we "hear" God saying or else we obviously do not believe what He is telling us in His Word. If we really believe Him, we will without doubt, follow up on what His word says with some type of action (James 2:17, says,"faith without works is dead".) Acknowledging God's faithfulness to His word in our lives serves to open our eyes to the fact that God is involved in our lives and that He does what He says He will do. When we acknowledge what He has done for us, it creates expectation. In other words, when we read God's word (hear) and follow what He says (obey), we will begin to anticipate what God is going to do for us.

Dr. Stanley goes on to say, "A faith challenge requires:
consistency,
endurance,
perseverance,
and watchfulness.
We must continue to stand in faith until the thing for which God challenged us to believe comes to pass."
Dr. Stanley completes his commentary by saying, "Endure until you see the fulfillment of God's Word".

This, indeed is a challenge for us to be intentionally focused on what God says in His Word until we see His will take shape in an amazing way in our lives. Like Peter, we must not lose our focus and become distracted by the storm around us. We must keep our eyes on Jesus. The more we know Him, the more our eyes can be opened to why we can trust Him. It is NOT a matter of "blind faith"! It is faith that is based on knowing God's faithfulness and knowing He loves us even more than a father who treasures his children and would give his life in place of theirs. That is exactly what God has done for us.

God desire for us is that we enjoy a wonderful relationship with Him--to have a life where "goodness and mercy shall follow (us) all the days of (our) lives and (we) will dwell in the house of the Lord forever" (Psalm 23:6)!  What an incentive to grow our faith! Psalm 11:1, reminds us: "In the LORD I put my trust". And, verse 4 reminds us how great is our God: "The LORD is in His Holy Temple, The LORD's throne is in heaven; His eyes behold."

Our God of Compassion--Day 21 Through the Bible

     Compassion--sympathetic consciousness of others' distress together with a desire to alleviate it.

 (Merriam-Webster)

                         

January 21

“Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free, the wretched refuse of your teeming shore.” You no doubt probably recognize the words of this sonnet written by Emma Lazarus, and know that these words are written on a plaque that is mounted in the base of The Statute of Liberty.

Our study today has a common thread that runs through Genesis, Psalms, and Matthew. That thread is compassion. When Joseph saw his brothers for the first time after many years, he was moved with compassion for them. He watched and listened while they verbalized their fear and frustration as they dealt with their dilemma. He listened as they expressed regret for having sold him into slavery, and as they bemoaned the fact that now they were paying for it. He finally had to remove himself from their presence so that he could weep.

Matthew 14: “And when Jesus went out He saw a great multitude; and He was moved with compassion for them, and healed their sick”. Later, the disciples came to Jesus and suggested sending the multitudes away so they could buy themselves food. This seemed like a practical idea. “But Jesus told His disciples, “They do not need to go away. You give them something to eat”. He proceeded to miraculously feed more than 5,000 people besides women and children. In our daily reading in Psalms 10, God is said to be “the helper of the fatherless” and “(does) justice to the fatherless and the oppressed, that the man of the earth may oppress no more”.

On occasion, during times of waiting, I have had the opportunity to observe people coming and going. This usually results in a sense of sadness for me. Without the hope of something better, our lives are left with much to be desired. Even if we make it through life with our needs met, we will ultimately face the end of our lives. We are each a part of the huddled mass of humanity. While we may receive a little compassion from others in times of sickness, loss, and neediness, we are born with an overwhelming spiritual need that can only be filled by the compassion of a loving God.

Psalms 86:15, tells us “But you, O Lord, are a God full of compassion, and gracious, patient, and plenteous in mercy and truth”. We should be so thankful and grateful to God for His plan of salvation and the hope this brings to all, as we recognize the ultimate sad state of humankind. We should also, without hesitation, share this Good News with those we meet. Our hearts should emanate compassion for the spiritual need of “the huddled masses”. We should never send people away to get spiritual help elsewhere. As Believers, we know where to find eternal life. We should be filled with a sense of joy that we have the privilege of telling others about the God of Compassion and the hope that He offers them through salvation and a relationship with Him!

Headliners and Heroes- Day 21 Through the Bible

"Assault on Mt. Mitchell" - a 63-mile ride UP (6,683 ft) to Mt. Mitchell State Park off the Blue Ride Parkway.  Some cyclists begin in Spartanburg, SC; others begin in Marion, NC.  July 21, 2013 is the next grueling ride, but it is already 75% filled as of this writing. Mt. Celo Church is on 80 S - an NC state scenic highway and a Top 10 Ride for cyclists (both bicycle and motorcycle) according to some lists.

Recent headlines of an international scandal, give us pause to consider:

1) But if you do not do so, then take note, you have sinned against the Lord; and be sure your sin will find you out. Numbers 32:23  There is a whole sermon on this alone and the Biblical account preceding this statement.  But for our Bible readings today...Joseph's brothers were able to conceal their scheming for over a dozen years.  Now, not only is their sin found out, but they stand before the very brother they sold into slavery.  The recent scandal is said to have gone on for over 20 years.  God's timing is not ours.

2) "We are truly guilty concerning our brother, for we  saw the anguish of his soul when he pleaded with us, and we would not hear; therefore distress has come upon us. (Gen. 42:21)...Their hearts failed them and they were afraid, saying to one another, What is this that God has done to us?" (Gen. 42: 28)  Often the anguish of the soul is not in the one who committed the crime but in the souls of the family members, employees, friends...others close to the one(s) committing the crime.

3 And the king was sorry; nevertheless, because of the oaths and because of those who sat with him, he commanded it to be given to her." (Matt. 14:9)  This was, of course, Herod speaking.  He had ordered the beheading of John the Baptist (even though he was sorry to do so) as a "gift" to his new wife's daughter.  John had told Herod it was unlawful for Herod to marry his brother's wife.  There is a high price to be paid for speaking the truth even today.  Jesus was crucified and tortured, John the Baptist was beheaded, the disciples were martyred (according to tradition) except for John, who was exiled, most of the prophets were killed.  Many of the people who spoke out against this recent scandal were sued and their professional and private lives seriously damaged.

4) "All these things are against me." Gen. 42:36  This is Jacob, the father of Joseph and the scheming brothers.  Yet, all these things were working together for good for Jacob and for Joseph - the betrayed.  Even more, God used these things to bring about the repentance of the brothers (not just saying they were sorry - but changed lives) and the restoration/reconciliation of the family.  This is important for Judah, the line/tribe of Jesus is within the guilty group.  It is in the midst of these sins and crimes that Judah will step forward as the "savior/leader."Gen 44.   New leaders are born out of adversity.  Truth can begin the way for healing.  That is our prayer for our nation, for the souls of the people involved in this international scandal.

5) "Pride goeth before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall."  Proverbs 16:18  Enough said.

6) "Do not be misled: “Bad company corrupts good character." 1 Cor 15:33 Judah (and even Reuben) seemed to understand that their lives would continue in the downward spiral unless they stepped away from the evil influence of their brothers.  Unfortunately, Herod chose the evil influence of his adulterous wife and the daughter chose to grant her murderous mother's wish.  We may have to move away from family, friends, co-workers, businesses, employers who lead us into sin or corruption.
The more we read about this recent scandal we see that family was betrayed, a believing spouse divorced, "friends" lied to and ruined when speaking the truth.  We see corporations and governing bodies aiding and abetting the scandal.  The short-term choice may be very difficult.  We, as believers, must always keep the eternal perspective.

7) When Jesus heard it, He departed from there by boat to a deserted place by Himself...when the multitudes heard it, they followed Him...when Jesus saw the great multitude, He was moved with compassion for them, and healed their sick. (Matt 14: 13- 18)  This was the response to Jesus hearing of the beheading of John the Baptist.  The passage continues with the feeding of the 5000 plus women and children.  This is our hope, our healing, our sustenance in the fallout of our lives.  When we follow the wrong heroes, or our own unwise choices, we are led down a slippery slope. We come to Jesus in these times of disillusionment, of being forsaken, of being found out in our sin...and we feed on His Word and are comforted.  But more...we are transformed and are sent out to impact the world for Christ.  And, oh, how we and the world are in need of Him!

Secularism teaches us that we ought to look to this world. Christianity teaches us that the best way to prepare for this world is to be fully prepared for the next.  Charles H. Spurgeon