Joshua 4-6 & Psalm 53

Psalm 53

Too bad we didn't read this Psalm a week ago on April Fool's Day..."The fool has said in his heart, 'There is no God.'" That is an utterly foolish statement...for there is a God. And He created the heavens and the earth. There is a God and He sustains all creation with rain and sunshine. There is a God for the birds follow His command and fly south for the winter and they are coming back now that spring has arrived. There is a God...and He loves you so much that He gave His son as a sacrifice for your sins so you can have eternal life in heaven. Take some time out and ponder upon the reality of God. Thank Him for being God...don't be a fool...believe in the God who loves you today!

Joshua 4-6

Considering the second battle Israel will face...Jericho...God wanted to ensure that they were all "right" with God. I have heard that expression "right" with God and I have wondered, "What does that mean?" I think I have figured it out as I have read through Joshua. After crossing the Jordan River, God instructs all of Israel to be circumcised. This was a "sign" proving that they were God's people. Why God didn't pick a different sign, I do not know. Back in Genesis 17, Abraham is told to be circumcised...and he did-he and all the males in his house. In Exodus 4, Moses is about to go to Egypt to plead to Pharaoh to let Israel go, and on the way the anger of the Lord burned against him for he had not been circumcised. Here the people who had been born in the wilderness have not yet been circumcised. So God instructs them to do so. It seems kind of a foolish sign in our eyes...but what about repentance? To say to God I am sorry for what wrong I have done...to make right what I have wronged, and make every effort not to do that wrong again....how foolish does that sound to the ears of a non-believer? In their minds, it might sound weird to "say you are sorry to a God you cannot see..." Or to go and make right what you have wronged...wouldn't it be easier to just not do it again...and not worry about what has been done in the past? Well, yes it would be easier...but we would not have made ourselves right before God. Besides...who can really right themselves...hasn't that already been done for us. God did that...by giving His son to die on the cross for us...so if He asks us to do something that may seem foolish in the eyes of man...then so be it. He is my God and I want to follow Him.

Joshua 1-3 & Psalm 52

Well its been nearly a month since I last posted some thoughts about our daily Bible reading...I hope you have not given up yet! We are nearly through the genealogies and divisions of the tribes of Israel. Deuteronomy summed up the Law of Moses one last time for us. We will have a brief summary of the law in Joshua with another division of the Promised Land at the end of Joshua as well. Stick with it! We are nearly one-third of the way through the year. Keep with your commitment and fulfill the challenge of reading through the Bible in a year!

Psalm 52

In this psalm, David contrasts one who follows and trusts God and one who does his own thing without God in his life. The result...God always wins. You can never expect to get through life working it yourself and against God. God will succeed and His people will always succeed with Him too!

Joshua 1-3

At the end of Deuteronomy, Moses dies, leaving the position for leadership of Israel vacant. God chooses one of the only men who crossed the Red Sea and is still alive. Joshua was one of the original spies who gave a report of the promised land back in Numbers 13-14. God allowed Joshua to live and enter the promised land contrary to everyone else who crossed the Red Sea. Can you imagine being asked by God to lead the people of Israel...their complaining...their rebellion...God is going to lead Israel into the land which He promised to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob...and He will use Joshua to lead the people to live righteous lives as well. God tells Joshua...he must be "strong and courageous". Three times God gives this encouragement to Joshua. God will prove Himself through the Israelites in a manner which removes all doubt that God is with them.

Their first battle...the Jordan River. Not a wide river by any means...however, during the harvest season, it floods making it very swift moving and deep in the certain places. It would have been impossible for more than 2 million people to cross it. So Joshua tells them to follow God (the ark of the covenant was where God's presence dwelt). They were to follow God (in the ark) from a distance of about 2000 cubits (or about 1/2 mile). This ensured that they truly followed God and not pass Him or go a different direction from where He is going. Think about this in your life...do you truly follow God...or are you leading attempting to have Him follow? Do you consult God every time you need something? Do you spend time with God in prayer before making a decision? Do you seek the Scriptures to determine if you life matches up? OR do you attempt life on your on?

The next battle...Jericho. We have heard this story a dozen times...they circle the city 7 times and on the 7th day they circle it 7 more times and the walls come tumbling down. Again, all they do is follow God and God ensures them a victory. It reminds me of what God encouraged Joshua..."be strong and courageous"....for what God is going to do is succeed by unnatural (but supernatural) means. Do you trust God to work in your life? Are you letting Him lead your life?

Numbers 12-14

Numbers 12-14

Many people have attempted to make accusations against a Godly person thinking that their actions surely must be wrong.  Can you recall any?  The number one that ought to come to mind would be Jesus.  What about Paul?  Any one of the 12 apostles who suffered for their faith and died because of the name of Jesus would be named in this company.  In Numbers 12 Moses is being ridiculed because of the ethnicity of his wife.  Remember Moses marrying Zipporah back in Exodus 2 whom we read in Exodus 18 is reunited with her husband after his dangerous dealings with Pharaoh in Egypt.  Remember at this point in the wanderings, the Israelites have just celebrated the second Passover (the first being in Egypt).  It could be understood that the Exodus 18 passage lines up closely with this passage in Numbers 12 when Aaron and Miriam find room of complaint against the Midianite (also known as Cushite) wife, Zipporah.  

But as we read the story, we find that there is more reason for complaint than just Moses' choice of a wife more than 40 years ago.  Miriam is really looking for more power from God.  But we learn of the humility and meekness of Moses (12:3).  To be humble or meek is harnessing power to do what is right for a given situation.  Picture a strong stallion.  Such a beast has the power to trample any human who attempts to harness it; however, by nature it chooses to submit to the owner's authority.  This is the picture of being meek.  Jesus said in Matthew 5 "Blessed are the meek...for they shall inherit the Kingdom of God."  Moses was a strong man with much God-given authority.  Rather than trample Aaron and Miriam for their opposition, he prayed to God and allowed God to handle the situation more appropriately.  In your life, what opportunities do you have to display God-given humility and meekness?

Numbers 13-14 offers us an explanation as to why this generation of people were left wandering and never allowed to enter the promised land.  Moses sent spies into the land to spy it out for 40 days so they could bring a report as to the demographics of the land.  He wanted them to report the type of land, the size of the cities, how developed the cities were, what kind of produce grew in the land, etc.  Their report came back mixed, however.  A group who opposed going to war and starting a conflict with the inhabitants falsely reported the land.  However, Joshua and Caleb reported accurately and assured the people that if God is on their side, who can oppose them?  The congregation's lack of faith angered God and nearly led Him to destory them all and start over--however, God knew His promises that He had made.  God never forgets His promise.  Moses had not calmed God down...rather God voiced what He "could have done" but remained true to His promise.  

Due to their distrust in God, God sentences them to a lifetime of wandering.  They will die in wandering.  Anyone who is 20 or older will never see the land flowing with milk and honey.  They will die eating manna and quail.  God will see to it that they be punished for their lack of trust in God.  

Numbers 8-11

Numbers 8-11

Continuing through the book of Numbers, we will occasionally read a review from the Laws taught to us in Exodus or Leviticus.  Using the dedication offerings given in chapter 7, the Tabernacle is built.  In chapter 9 we learn that the Israelites had now been out of Egypt for one year.  They are given the instructions to celebrate the second Passover in remembrance of God's deliverance from the bondage of Egypt.  I remember Bob Tuck sharing with us this Sunday the fact that we are memory bound creatures.  Our lives revolve around remembering the past or attempting to remember a coming up appointment.  We have numerous devices to aid us in our memory.  Isn't it special that God offered His people the memory device of Passover to celebrate each year and remember their salvation from Egypt.  We have that same memory device given to us every week when we celebrate the Lord's Supper.  

I find it hard to believe as I read through the wandering years of Israel that they would have reason to complain.  But in addition to being memory bound creatures, we are also created with "minds of our own" and unfortunately sometimes our minds do not always remain focused on the Creator.  Recall with me where Israel has been in the last 365 days...In Egypt, they were suffering under the oppression of the slave driving taskmasters...witnessing 10 plagues, God's reality was displayed...watching a fiery cloud distract the mighty Egyptian army while the 2 million Israelites cross through several miles of DRY sea bottom to safety...they physical hunger satisfied with bread from heaven twice a day...their leader Moses goes up on a mountain that is on fire, suffering earthquakes and lightening storms, and then he returns from the mountain with the words of God inscribed on tablets of stone with the laws by which they would now live...the fiery cloud that had distracted the Egyptians is now leading you through the desert-when it moves, you move and when it stops, you stop.  What a year!  

So many reasons to trust in God and in the leader He endorses.  But when  the manna gets too boring and there just are not enough ways to fix it so it tastes good, they began to complain.  What is wrong with that picture?  So they not only cry to their leader, but they cry to God.  Their whining gets to God and in anger, he allows flocks of quail to move into their area.  But in greed, the people gather too much and this burns the anger of the Lord even more.  Does our greed lead us to go for too much?  When can we ever be satisfied?  The answer: For earthly things, we will never be satisfied.  But when we wholey live in trust and obedience in God, when our thoughts are set on eternity with Him, we will be fully satisfied and will be content with all things.  

Numbers 1-7

Number 1-7

The book of Numbers makes it evident to us the precise order God took to lead His people through the 40 years of wandering and into the promised land.  In the second half of Exodus and throughout Leviticus, we are given precise instructions for how to live.  In addition, the exact instructions for the building of the Tabernacle are given.  The book of Numbers offers a more governmental (not political) aspect to Israel's life and function.  Chapters 1-3 instruct Moses how to organize the camps according to the 12 tribes (which were named after the sons of Israel). Judah would serve as the leading group.  The order in which the tribes is set up around the Tabernacle is important for when the Lord instructs them to move, the armies will march out in that order.  God gives instructions for His people to be governed with exactness!  We also learn that one of the tribes is to be left out of this order for their responsibility is for the care of the Tabernacle--the Levites.  Chapter 4 addresses with exact details the responsibilities for all of the Levites.  Each Levite male will serve for 20 years (from age 30-50) in the work of the Tabernacle.  Everyone had their part and they did it well.  Chapter 5 offers instructions on things to be avoided so that proper health and sanitation as well as sexual purity can be maintained in such a densely populated camp.  

Within its pages God instructs Moses and the priests on how to determine if a woman has committed adultery but there is no evidence to offer proof.  If a husband suspected his wife of adultery, he could make life completely miserable for her.  To prevent this, God gave Moses and the priests instructions of how to test the woman for purity.  It was a "put up, or shut up" measure for both the man and the woman.  If the woman passed the test, she was free from the ridicule her husband put her through.  If she failed the test, she would be punished.  And we remember from Leviticus that the punishment was death.  The priest would hold a pitcher of purified water in one hand, scoop up dust from the tabernacle floor in the other, and pour the dust into the water.  He would write on a scroll the offense and then dip the scroll into the water.  The water would now be contaminated with all sorts of bacteria for in the Tabernacle hundreds of animals are slaughtered daily and their remains would be tracked throughout the tent.  Such remains would make it into the water.  She would then be instructed to drink the water.  If over the course of time she experienced no affects, she would be free from guilt.  However, if she had been guilty, she would experience an illness in her ovarial organs that would cause her abdomen to swell and it would spread to her thighs and they would begin to rot.  She then would be proven guilty and be sentenced to death. 

Chapter 6 offers a section of "Things to be encouraged" such as the vow of a Nazarite.  A Nazarite was one who took a vow before God to live a holy life.  The nazarite vow included 3 parts: Abstain from 1) any fruit of the vine (grapes, wine, etc.), 2) Cutting any hair on your head (haircut or shave), and 3) anything dead.  It would be evident to others of your vow and you would take such extreme measures as your vow to God to be Holy.  

Chapter 7 describes the offerings of the people of Israel to the Tabernacle upon its completion.  Much like when a church is dedicated and begins its use, an offering to furnish it may be given, so is the Tabernacle.

Leviticus 5-27

*Due to my tardiness in posting comments for the remainder if Leviticus, I will offer a few thoughts for the duration of the book.  I have heard a few form the church comment on the lack of application from the book of Leviticus.  I would agree to some degree; however, after reading from Leviticus (especially after catching up on my reading today), I am brought to an attitude of praise for my God who has redeemed me by the death of Christ from the laws of the Israelites.  I no longer have to be concerned with the festivals and the rules of living quite like the Israelites were expected to!  I can live in freedom from the strangle that sin once had one me.  We should be moved to praise to God for Jesus rescuing us from the snare of the law!  

Secondly, I am reminded of who God is throughout the book of Leviticus.  Each time God instructed the Israelites to do something that seemed like it could be argued with as being too difficult, God reminded the people that "He is the Lord!"  In Leviticus 19 alone, the phrase "I am the Lord" is used 16 times.  Again, and again, God reminds the people of Israel that nothing it too difficult for His people for God will see it through!  We might need that reminder again today! 

Finally, I sum up the book of Leviticus with the passage from 26:12 which says "I will also walk among you and be your God, and you shall be My people."  God is taking the people of Israel from the Egyptian bondage in Exodus to wandering the desert for 40 years.  Now God is leading the His people back into the pagan land of Canaan where they will live forever in the land of their promise.  God is claiming the people of Israel as His own chosen people.  These rules and laws were not just intended as a way to keep a handle on the people.  They were meant to set apart the Israelite people as evidence that they belonged to God!  Think about this: In what ways does your life reflect your belonging to God and being set apart from other non-believing people? 

Day of Reflection

Today is Thursday, therefore, the day of the week in which we reflect upon what God has been teaching us in His Word.  Share any comments and/or questions you have concerning your lessons from the Bible.  

Leviticus 1-4 & Proverbs 14:1-8

Leviticus 1-4

The book of Leviticus begins where the book of Exodus ends.  The tabernacle has been completed with precise exactness to God's plans.  Upon its completion, the Israelites will remain at the base of Mount Sinai for about two years while they receive more instructions from God about right and holy living as God's people.  The book of Leviticus is a manual for worship of unholy people to a holy God.  As we read Leviticus, allows its laws and sacrificial instructions to transform your perception of our holy God.  

Leviticus was written primarily to the tribe of Levi (one of the 12 sons of Jacob which later became one of the 12 tribes of Israel.  Every priest that was set aside to serve in the tabernacle came from the tribe of Levi.  The Levites will follow this book even more closely to ensure that everyone else lives right with God.  

The first type of offering that we learn about is the BURNT Offering which is described in Leviticus 1.  It is a voluntary offering and it is not commanded by God on any occasion; however, you would offer it for your sins when you felt compelled to do so.  It would show one's true devotion to God.  

There will be an emphasis on the sacrifices being "without defect".  This would mean that they are strong and healthy animals.  They cannot be animals that are already dead, handicapped, bruised, or any other such "second-rate" offering.  The purpose of the sacrifice is that it hurts you when you give it up.  This is a substitution for your sins!  It must cost you something when you give it up!  The sacrifice that is "without defect" is a reflection of the ultimate sacrifice that was also "without defect", and that is Jesus.  

The second type of offering spoken of in Leviticus is the GRAIN Offering which is described in Leviticus 2.  It was a voluntary offering of true worship to God and would acknowledge to all that you and all that you had belonged to God.  The offering was to be made form "choice" ingredients.  There was no off-brand or out-of-date products used.  Only the best was offered.  Is your offering to God the best that you have to give?  Or could you give better to God?  

A "token portion" of the offering was burned for the sacrifice, while a large portion of the offering was kept by the priests as their food.  This was commanded by God because the priests and other Levitical workers had no other source of income for God put them to full-time labor of the people in the tabernacle.   

The third type of offering spoken of in Leviticus is found in the third chapter and it is a PEACE Offering.  This voluntary offering was to express gratitude and thanksgiving to God for His proper care for you and your family.  It was to express peace and fellowship with a holy God.  Since it was to symbolize peace with God, part of the offering could be eaten and shared with the priests as food to eat. 

The fourth type of offering described in Leviticus 4 is the SIN Offering.  For the first time we read "MUST" language.  The previous three offerings were voluntary and were spread with language such as "when you" or "if you" while this SIN Offering is compacted with the wording of "you must".  It sin occurs, and it will, then a sacrifice must be made as its atonement.  The Bible speaks highly that sin is a serious thing.  And when this serious action occurs, then serious measures must be taken.  Even with sin that was unintentional such as what is spoken of in Leviticus 4. 

Proverbs 14:1-18

The proverbs continue to offer for us the comparison between the fool and the wise one.  However, in some cases, we cannot read an "if, then" situation.  For example, we read in 14:5 that a truthful witness does not lie; a false witness breathes lies."  But there are some that do not give a stark comparison for instance, 14:7 we read of just a simple statement about the fool: "Stay away from fools, for you won't find knowledge there."  This verse gives an indication that when you seek wisdom, you will also find knowledge.  Wisdom is defined as knowledge applied and put into practice. We can have a wealth of knowledge as we are gaining from reading the Proverbs; however, if we never apply it and put it into practice, we remain but a smarter fool.  

Acts 26-28 & Proverbs 13:13-25

Acts 26-28

Before Festus and Agrippa II, Paul makes his defense and they two could find no fault with Paul.  So they sent him on to Rome to be tried before Caesar.  He went by boat with a roman guard watching over him.  Along the way, the boat made several stops.  At each stop, Paul was allowed to get off the boat and the companions with Paul saw to it that his needs were met.  The path the boat took is on the map below.  

As winter drew near, the water became rough to sail.  They had planned to stop for the winder on the island of Crete; however, the southern wind turned and a typhoon swelled up.  This made for terribly rough sailing.  The boat came near the island of Malta.  Just before setting to land, the boat ran aground and wrecked causing all aboard to abandon ship.  In Malta, the people were very courteous to the the seamen.  When the bought a new ship, they again set sail for Rome.  

When they arrive in Rome, Paul rents his own house to be inprisoned in.  This was the Roman custom if you were a roman citizen.  In his own rented house, a roman guard would watch over him.  However, Paul had the freedom to have visitors and so he called all of the Jews living in Rome at the time.  There, he gave his testimony of how Jesus was the Messiah.  Some believed him and some didn't.  Either way, what Jesus told Paul was true! "Be encouraged Paul.  Just as I have told the people about me here in Jerusalem, you must preach the Good News in Rome" (Acts 23:11).  

The church continued to spread and grow rapidly; even while Paul remained in prison for two more years.  Paul will write letters to the churches he had made visits to while on his missionary journeys while he is prison.  

Proverbs 13:13-25

Heed the advice of the wise for it will bring you success!  Tell the truth (this is a reoccurring proverb).  And I take to heart Proverbs 13:18--accept criticism and you will be honored.  Criticism is a hard pill to swallow sometimes.  In many cases, criticism is simply complaining in a proper form.  However, I believe that all criticism can be beneficial if when you receive it you are looking for the good in it.  Guard against hurt feelings and allow God to grow you in Him in all things.  

Acts 22-25 & Proverbs 13:1-12

Acts 22-25

Upon Paul's arrest, he requests to speak to the Jews in a public speech.  While he was still tied up, Paul makes an address that points out to the crowd: 1) Who he is; 2) What he did as a Pharisee,  3) Where he was born; 4) How he was converted to Jesus; 5) Jesus sent Paul to preach to the Gentiles.  At this remark, the Jews caused an even greater uproar.  The guard then were to take Paul to punish him; however, Paul made it known that he was a Roman citizen as well.  It is Roman law that if you are a citizen then you must receive a proper trial before being punished for breaking the law.  

Paul is taken before the Jewish High Council which was composed of Jewish religious leaders.  As they learned of a plot to kill Paul, Paul was moved to the Roman governor's headquarters in Caesarea (north of Jerusalem).  There, the governor of the Judean province heard Paul's defense.  He could find no wrong in his story (anything worthy of death anyway) but in response to the Jewish acqcuasations, he kept Paul in prison for two years.  

At the end of the two years,  a new governor is placed in office replacing Felix.  His name was Festus.  As Festus hears Paul's defense, he too believes there is no need for punishment and agrees to send Paul to stand trial back in Jerusalem; however, Paul is indignant to go back.  He makes a Roman citizen request to see Caesar, the Roman Emperor.  

Before being able to speak to Caesar, Festus calls on another governor named Agrippa II.  And Paul gives his defense to him. 

Proverbs 13:1-12

Again the chapter opens with the urge of the child to listen to the discipline of the parent.  Listen to the words of the wise man and heed them yourself!  

Acts 19-21 & Proverbs 12:15-28

Acts 19-21

Now we begin the reading of the details of Paul's third missionary journey.  This time, he will spend much of his time in the city of Ephesus (about two years).  Many of the cities that we read about Paul visiting and starting churches in bear some of the names of the letters that Paul wrote that later became other New Testament books in our bible.  The church of the Ephesians is one of those letters.  As Paul made many lasting relationships with the Christians in Ephesus, many people became Christians as a result.  The people of Ephesus worshipped the pagan goddess Diana (or also known as Artemis) who was the goddess of fertility.  Paul utilized these pagan temples as places for public preaching the Gospel.  

After making his way through Macedonia and Greece, Paul turned toward Jerusalem to return with an offering from the Asian churches.  Along the way, he made several stops and several of the churches urged Paul not to go to Jerusalem for they were told in their prophecies that if Paul did go, it would be the last time they would see him.  Paul went on against their urging for he felt strongly that God was sending him to Jerusalem. 

Upon his arrival in Jerusalem, some Ephesian Jews who witnessed Paul preaching in Ephesus, gathered a riot to beat up Paul.  An uproar ensued and caused the roman officials to arrest Paul.  Upon his arrest, Paul requested to speak to the crowd and they allowed him to do so. 

Proverbs 12:15-28

There is one proverb that jumps to my attention from this reading.  It is Proverbs 12:25--"Worry weighs a person down; an encouraging word cheers a person up."  I have always understood the first half of the proverb.  Worry is not a major weakness for me.  My philosophy has always been, "if I have no control, no worry is needed.  If I have control, then do what is in my power for that which I am tempted to worry."  But it is the second half of the proverb that jumps to me.  "An encouraging word cheers a person up."  Why would the writer place these two together?  Perhaps if someone you know is worrying, then we should do our part to encourage them and cheer them up.  Or else perhaps it is a challenge to do away with the daily worries and replace them with an encouraging word.  What do you think?  Post your comments.  

Acts 16-18 & Proverbs 12:1-14

Acts 16-18

After returning from Jerusalem conference with what the apostles and elders had decided on the matters of Jewish law, Paul set out on another mission not only to carry the letter, but also to preach the good news of Jesus to more gentiles.  This time, he and Silas set out on the journey.  Their travels are on the map below.  

Occasionally you will read a reference to "WE" for example in Acts 16:11 "We boarded a boat at Troas..."  The change in reference is probably due to at this point the author of Acts named Luke joins Paul in his journey.  Notice throughout the book where Luke joins.  This offers credibility to his written account for some of it is first-hand, eye witness accounts.  

Proverbs 12:1-14

Proverbs 12:1 opens with a charge for instruction: "To learn, you must love instruction; it is stupid to hate correction" (NLT).   As we have been reading through the Proverbs, are you yielding to the correction of the Scripture?  There is much application of God's word, especially in this book.  We can mold our lives to be like the "wise" one and not the "fool".  We can learn to become more generous, to guide our children, to listen to advice and, to speak the truth.

Acts 13-15 & Proverbs 11:16-31

**Due to the hospitalization of my Father-in-Law, I have been behind in many of my responsibilities including posting the blog.  I am now going to catch up my thoughts and reflections concerning our daily readings in the Bible.  I apologize for my being behind.  God bless you in your reading! 

Acts 13-15

As Paul and Barnabas had finished their work in Jerusalem, they returned to the church in Antioch which lied North of Jerusalem in the province of Syria.  It served as a hub for Paul in his missionary journeys westward into Central Asia and Western Europe.  The church in Antioch was the first non-Jewish church which believed strongly in the mission of bringing the Gospel to Gentile people.  It was in Antioch that the name "Christian" was given to followers of Christ (Acts 11:19-26).  Following the map below, you can see the path that Paul chose on his first missionary journey throughout Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey).  He circled through cities, first going to the Jewish synagogues to share the good news.  Why do you think this was his method?  Probably because these people already had a belief in one God and a foundational belief in the coming Messiah.  Paul's message is clear: "The Messiah you are looking for is Jesus!" (Acts 18:28)

In Acts 15, there is a dispute between Jewish Christians who believed that in order to be saved, you must keep the whole Jewish Law and be circumcised.  Therefore, a council consisting of the Apostles and the Elders of the church at Jerusalem and they drafted a response letter to all churches explaining what would be the requirements regarding the Jewish law for Christians. Disputes arise in churches today many times as a result of ignorance to what God's word says concerning the matter in dispute.  In many cases, the dispute is not even concerning a matter in God's word, but instead a personal preference.  In such cases, men of God who have been selected to serve in positions of leadership in the church assist in resolving such matters.  Wisdom and prayer should always be exercised.  The goal is not a compromise; however, the goal is what is to resolve the conflict in a healthy manner.

Proverbs 11:16-31

As we continue to read the themes and proverbs in this book, continue to note bits of wisdom applicable for your life and the lives of your children.  The theme continues to be a comparison between the wise and the fools.  

Acts 10-12 & Proverbs 11:1-16

Acts 10-12

Until this chapter, the church remained in and around Jerusalem with its members only being Jews.  The Jewish law made it mandatory that Jews remain a distance and do not associate with non-Jews (Gentiles).  This chapter is a pivotal point in the history of the church.  Cornelius is a Gentile Roman Army official who oversees 100 roman soldiers.  His wealth and power would be great.  However, in his time spent outside Jerusalem in the coastal city of Joppa, he began to fear the God of the Jews.  In a vision, God instructs him to send for Peter who is north a few miles in the city of Caesarea.  While this is going on, Peter has a vision of his own.  In his vision, God makes it known that there are no longer "unclean" foods such as pork and other animals that were by law not allowed to be eaten.  This was a preparation for Peter's mindset to be changed concerning association with gentiles as well.  When Peter meets with Cornelius and his household, he begins to preach and many of the same evidences of God pouring out His spirit on the Christians of Jerusalem occurred in Cornelius' house.  

What were  they for?  In the beginnings of the church, there was not yet  the New Testament Bible for the Christians to know God's teachings.  Therefore, God would offer certain spiritual gifts to the Christians to have divine revelation as to what God wanted Christians to know.  They would be coupled with other gifts possessed by other people.  For instance, if one person had the gift of speaking in tongues, it was the gift of someone else to interpret the tongues therefore keeping one man from being able to warp the revelation from God.  

These in and of themselves did not save people though.  As they were showing signs that they had received the gifts of the Spirit, Peter still instructed them to be baptized-which will forgive their sins (Acts 2:38).  

When he left there, he met with the church leaders in Jerusalem to explain how God is now converting gentiles as well as jews.  And about this time, a famine began to spread throughout the land.  There was a church north in a town called Antioch which will send assistance to the church in Jerusalem for the were badly hurting from the famine.  God always uses Christians to help fellow Christians.  We must remember that we do not only belong to the church in our local community; however, we also belong to the global church that is ONE and is GOD'S.

From there, the church in Jerusalem sends more people back to Antioch to spread the good news.  This will begin the first missionary journey by Paul (formerly Saul) in Acts 13.  

  

Proverbs 11:1-16

Many of the proverbs in this chapter offer God's perspective on the consequences and the blessings of right living.  For instance, when one is honest, they are guided and they please God.  However, when they lie and cheat, it angers God and they will be destroyed.  In our society, however, is this always the case?  It seems that people teach more today that if you lie and steal to get ahead, it is okay so long as you do not get caught.  In recent news, there was a Wall Street scandal in which one man squandered $50 Billion of investors money...but he was caught and now it is devastating his life!  Remember the theme of sin in the Bible--it always has its consequences, although not always immediate, they will always see to happen.    I have been writing proverbs on a notecard that I hope to one day spend time teaching my children.  I hope you can find lasting value in some practical application like this for your children or even for yourself! 

Acts 7-9 & Proverbs 10:17-32

Acts 7-9

Upon Stephen's arrest in Acts 6, he is given the opportunity to testify for himself.  When he could have made right the witnesses that were false, he chose instead to tell the crowd which had gathered about Jesus.  His presentation of God's Transforming Story began in the beginning of the Old Testament with Abraham and he built upon the Old Testament teachings to the present day when the people before him persecuted and put Jesus on the cross.  When Stephen made mention of Jesus being in heaven sitting at God's right hand, the Jews became outraged and led in a revolt to stone Stephen.  As he was being stoned, the witnessing Temple Official was Saul.  

Chapter 8 begins the second part of Acts.  Chapters 1-7 was the account of The Church began in JERUSALEM.  Chapter 8 begins the section of the Church spread into JUDEA and SAMARIA.  As persecution grew with intensity against the Christians, many of them left Jerusalem and moved throughout the Roman world.  As they went, they shared the message that Jesus was the Messiah!  One of the guys chosen to serve the tables in chapter 6 was Philip.  Philip left Jerusalem and set out north into Samaria where he spoke of Jesus to everyone he could.  Crowds gathered as he performed miracles which caused the people to believe what he was saying (Acts 8:6).  Philip preached the good news always and it caused many people to believe and be baptized.  

Meanwhile, while Christians began to scatted out of Jerusalem, Saul left to go north to the town called Damascus which was about 150 miles north of Jerusalem.  He wanted to head off the growth of Christianity and stop its growth.  Upon the road while traveling, Jesus appeared in spirit form before Saul and demanded that Saul believe and stop persecuting Christians who believe in Jesus.  He was blinded, given instructions to go into Damascus, and there a Christian helped to restore his sight.  After regaining his sight, Saul was baptized and he too began to preach the good news to people in Damascus and then in Jerusalem when he returned there.  God is going to use Saul to take the Gospel to non-Jewish people (Gentiles) so the church will grow world-wide!  

Proverbs 10:17-32

The proverb continues the contrast between the wise and the fool.  One of the keys to being wise is knowing when to talk and when to shut up (10:19-20).  One of the verses I have taken to heart is Proverbs 10:20 which speaks of blessings from God do not include sorrow.  Many times we consider something a blessing (especially large purchases we make with credit) and it soon becomes a curse.  If this is the case it was never a blessing from God, but it was something you yourself brought on calling it a blessing.  

Acts 4-6 & Proverbs 10:1-16

Acts 4-6

In Acts 3, when the crowd gathered around Peter and John who were preaching following the healing of the lame man, word soon got to the Temple officials and they arrested Peter and John for their speaking out.  This time Peter owns up to the fact that he knew Jesus and that he was preaching the good news (contrary to when he denied it and the rooster crowed three times).  The decision of the Temple officials was for the apostles to be quiet and stop preaching.  Peter and John's response: "We cannot stop speaking of the wonderful things we have seen and heard" (Acts 4:20).   Christians today are too quick to shut up when they are threatened by higher-ups who think they have a voice.  Schools say that students cannot pray or read the Bible in the school when there is no such law.  The teachers cannot lead the teaching of the Bible or the public prayer, but students can on their own!  When Government says one thing--God says another...obey God! 

In Acts 5, why would God strike Ananias and Sapphira dead for only giving half the offering they could have given?  Is it because God is greedy?  No.  Ananias and Sapphira promised all of the land money....not half.  If they had promised half, and then given half, we would not read this in Acts today.  Because they lied, and when given opportunity to tell the truth and lied again, then it angered God and an example was shown to everyone else that this is not acceptable!

When the apostles continued to teach in the name of Jesus, the Temple officials again brought them before them, arrested them, and told them NOT to teach about Jesus any longer.  When they flogged (physically abused) them, they rejoiced that they were persecuted for Jesus.  This sounds weird; however, it was told to the apostles that they would be beaten in the same manner that Jesus Himself would be.  They rejoice because Jesus' words came true.  Also, it was a joy to share in the suffering that Jesus suffered.  

As teh church growed larger and larger, the needs of the people of the church also grew.  The people of the church noticed that some of the needs were being overlooked and so they approached the Apostles about the need.  In response, the Apostles delegated the responsibilities to men who were full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom and gave them charge over taking care of the daily distribution of food.  It has always been a part of the church's responsibilities to care for not only the spiritual needs of the Christians but also the physical needs when the arise.  

One of these men that were chosen was Stephen.  Stephen was a man full of God's power and when he was encountered by some deceiving jews, he was arrested based on false accusation.  Although it was unjust, Stephen used this as an opportunity to share the message of Jesus!  We should always look at our lives circumstances as opportunities to share Jesus with people.  

Proverbs 10:1-16

This is a second collection of Proverbs from King Solomon.  In the first collection (chapters 1-9) we found a real basis for wisdom: Wisdom comes only from God; the opposite of wisdom is folly; the immoral acts one engages himself (herself) in is the extreme of a fools behavior and this person truly lacks all wisdom.  This collection will include short snippets of wisdom.  There is a distinct contrast between the wise (also called godly) and the fools (also called wicked).  Are there any comparisons that speak to you?  Do you have children and the proverbs based on youth are helpful?  Do the proverbs pertaining to wealth speak to you?  Highlight and/or write down the proverbs that speak to you to encourage you to live right for God.  

Acts 1-3 & Proverbs 9

Acts 1-3

The book of Acts serves as a history of how the church got its start.  To summarize the entire book, many scholars use Acts 1:8 to serve as an outline for the book: Jesus said, "You will be My witnesses in JERUSALEM and in all JUDEA and SAMARIA, and to the ends of the EARTH."  A good outline for the book of Acts will be this:

1) The church began in JERUSALEM

2) The church spread into JUDEA and SAMARIA

3) The church spread to the ends of the EARTH

To fully grasp the locations, you may need a map:

Jerusalem was the local town--the people they knew.

Judea and Samaria were the larger context-perhaps the county or even the state.

The ends of the earth means the churches with different cultures throughout the world.

Acts 1:1-5

Following his resurrection from the dead, Jesus appears multiple times to many different people to prove his resurrected to new life and overcoming death.  In the 50 days that span between the Jewish holiday of Passover (when Jesus was put to death) and the Jewish holiday of Pentecost (when the church began), Jesus spent 40 of those days walking, talking, and encouraging his followers for what was to soon come...the outpouring of God's Spirit on the people.  He told his 11 disciples (minus Judas the traitor) to remain in Jerusalem until this happened.  This language was somewhat foreign to the disciples except for the time they heard John the Baptist refer to it as Jesus noted in Acts 1:5.  

Acts 1:6-23

Peter steps up to take on the first act of business as a leader for the group.  He felt that Judas needed to be replaced with a new disciple.  When  they began the selection process, they began with prayer.  Each year we as a church have the opportunity to select from among our congregation men to serve as leaders.  It can be tempting to select people who are good leaders, strong workers, or popular among the people.  And while these qualities are good and needed, we must always begin our selection with prayer.  God must have the ultimate voice in who we choose!

Acts 2

Ten days following the ascension of Jesus, the promises is fulfilled when there was a large influx of people in Jerusalem celebrating the Day of Pentecost.  The Festival called Pentecost was celebrated by the command of God in Exodus 23:16 & 34:22 for the purpose showing joy and thankfulness for the Lord's blessing of harvest.  At this festival, the first fruits of the grain harvest were presented as a offering to God.  Jews from all over the Roman world would travel to Jerusalem to make their offerings in the Temple.  It was during this holiday when all work had ceased for a time that God chose to send His spirit! 

As people were crowded in Jerusalem to make their offering, God's Spirit came on the 12 apostles (disciples) and it looked as if flames burned on their heads.  Peter began to preach the first sermon in the common Jewish language of Aramaic.  While he spoke, the other eleven translated the sermon into the tongues of other people present: people from all over the known Roman world (Acts Acts 2:9-11).  At the conclusion of the sermon, the people began to ask "What now?"  They needed instructions on how to respond.  And Peter's instructions (led by God's Spirit) was to 1) turn from your sins (repent) and be immersed (baptized) into water and the result would be 1) your sins will be forgiven and 2) God's Spirit will live inside you.  

The result of the sermon: Over 3000 people were baptized.  They began living in a community with a common belief and sharing in the things of God.  They shared when people had need for many of them had come from other parts of the world.  

Acts 3

This is the second of sermons Peter preached in Acts.  This time, his attention grabber was his healing a man who could not walk.  When people noticed the man could walk, they wondered what was happening which gave Peter the opportunity the opportunity to preach.  He now had an audience.  The purpose of miracles, whether by Jesus or the Apostles, was always offer credit for the message they had to preach.  This was the case here with Peter.  The result of this message, another 2000 people were baptized.  

Proverbs 9

Wisdom and foolishness is again compared. The key verse here is found in Proverbs 9:10--Wisdom comes when we truly have a healthy fear of God.  Fear=Respect.  When we fear snakes, we respect them enough to stay away from them.  We have a negative connotation of fear today however; to be afraid is somehow a bad thing.  Replace "fear" with "respect" and you will understand the gist of this verse.  The beginning of wisdom is when we respect God for sho He is and who we are not.   

Exodus 38-40 & Proverbs 8

Exodus 38-40

In the concluding chapters of Exodus, the Tabernacle is to be completed.  You may noticed the repetition of the explanation of the articles to be built in the Tabernacle.  As we read, 1) God explains the plan to Moses, 2) Moses explains the plan to the people of Israel, 3) The people of Israel act out the plan 4) as a summary, Moses inspects to see that the plan is accurate to God's original plan.  

One more time, in order to help with the mind's eye of what you are reading, here is the picture of the Tabernacle in completion according to how God planned it:

Proverbs 8

Wisdom is compared to a woman who guides us in a noble fashion.  In contrast with the immoral woman who guides us to the sins of her bedroom, wisdom is noted as one who guides us in the ways of understanding and who will make us succeed.  Her instruction is better than the most valuable of the precious metals and fine jewels.  God approves of the counsel that wisdom offers.  In fact it is said in Proverbs 8:36 that whoever finds true wisdom will "find life and approval from the Lord."  But the warning to heed is that the one who misses on finding wisdom "will find injury".  There is wonderful blessings when we live by the wisdom of the Lord!

Genesis 35-37 & Proverbs 7

Exodus 35-37

As I read the passage in Exodus 35-37, Moses makes a plea for materials for the building of the Tabernacle.  This plea however, is not a cry for anyone to bring anything.  Rather, it is a request for those who have the proper materials of th

e best quality to provide them.  Likewise, h

e asks for assistance from people to assist in building the Tabernacle.  Moses does not ask for the same 20% of people who do everything to com

e and do more as is common in the church tod

ay.  Rather, he asks for those who are skilled in carpentry to help construct the Tabernacle; for those who are skilled in sewing to help sew the curtains; for those who are skilled in smithing to help beat the gold to its proper shape.  Moses asks for everyone to offer their best and to do what they are gifted at with their best effort.  I take from this that if you are skilled at a certain area, then do that for God.  If you are not, the

n don't.  We all have a place in God's church to offer Him our best!  We just have to decide for ourselves where and how that is...not wait for so

meone else to recruit us!  

The descriptions of the Tabernacle articles are very descriptive; however, I find it best to see a picture so that I better identify with it.  Here are some to help.  

Ark of the Covenant (left) 

Table in the Tabernacle (above)

Lamp stand (below) 

Incense Alter (above)

Proverbs 7

An echo of Proverbs 5 reminding the son (or daughter) of the dangers of sex outside of a marriage relationship.  It is not okay.  There are consequences.  The one who gives in to such temptation is called a simple-minded man without common sense (verse 7).  The leading of sexual sin is awfully enticing; however, we must understand and teach our young ones the danger it brings with it.  Heed these warnings and you will be wise.  

Day of Reflection

Today is the weekly Day of Reflection.  If you are caught up in our schedule, then take some time and review what you have read or read something a second time.  Take some time to meditate on a passage or memorize a verse of Scripture.  If you need today to do some catching up, then do so.  I would love to see how you are progressing and what you are thinking...so please post a comment letting me know how you are doing!  

Exodus 32-34 & Proverbs 6

Exodus 32-34

Moses has been atop Mount Sinai speaking with God for 40 days and 40 nights.  Think in terms of how long that is...it is more than a month.  The Israelite people were growing restless in desert below the mountain as they ate their manna and quail.  Aaron could not offer any answers.  Soon complaining ensued and some from among the people began leading a revolt to try to do things their own way.  They were tired of waiting for Moses and God to talk things out...besides, what else is there to talk about?  Perhaps Moses got lost or died on top of the mountain?

So what did they do? They pressured their "interim" leader whom Moses obviously left in charge; the new Temple priest-Aaron.  And they began speaking in his language--persuading him to create an opportunity to worship.  They melted down much of the gold that they plundered from the Egyptians and in the words of Aaron (Exodus 32:24) a shape of a cow is what came out!  Whatever the circumstances, God was furious with the people for their short-term memories and lack of patience to wait on God and he again (in accordance with His justice) wanted to wipe them all out and start over.  However, at the prayers of Moses, God decided that He would not (in accordance with His mercy).  Moses did not change God's mind with His prayers; however, God changed his actions according to His character (He is both Just and Merciful).  

Moses went down the mountain, threw the tablets God had been writing the Law on, and had many words with the rebellious and idolatrous people.  After spending time with God in the Tent of Meeting, He again trekked back up the Mountain for another 40 days and 40 nights to rewrite the Law on tablets of stone again.  And when Moses returned, He found a patient people waiting for his return.  What they saw was a man who had been with God!  His face was glowing and they could tell who He had spent time with.  For some application, can your family and friends tell by your attitude when you have spent time with God in His word and prayer?  Can you tell the difference between a day when you did spend time with God and a day when you failed to make the time to do so?  If not, then consider what you are doing when you pray--you are talking to GOD!  Consider what you are doing when you are reading the Bible--GOD is speaking to YOU!  This should affect you everyday.  Think about that. 

Proverbs 6

Proverbs chapter 6 offers good daily wisdom for a young adult.  It is as it the Father is having that one last conversation with his college grad who is moving off on his own.  So what kind of advice does the Father give?  Is this advice that we too need to yield?  I would encourage you to make a list of lessons that you will take from Proverbs that you will be sure to teach your child one day! 

1) Do not guarantee someone else's debt!  If you have, get out of it NOW! 

2) Work HARD when it is time to work.  The rest well when it is time to rest! 

3) Reflect often on the good and wise teachings of your parents.  

(that is remember previous proverbs) 

4) Again: Stay away from immorality and the adulterous woman!  You will suffer its consequences! 

Exodus 28-31 & Provers 5

Exodus 28-31

In the chapters of Exodus 28-31, we read of God's continued instructions for the worship of the people of Israel to God.  He offers specific instructions for the clothing that the priests will wear, to how the alter works, to how the census tax will be used, to how they were to celebrate the Sabbath day.  As you read Exodus 28, God directs Moses' brother, Aaron, and his sons to be the priests for the Tabernacle.  Such a wonderful and humbling responsibility is truly fitting to the man who spoke on behalf of Moses to the Egyptian people much of the time.  Now, He will have the honor of speaking to God on behalf of the people.  

He will wear a garment that looks like the picture to the left which is made with exact directions given from God.  There are so many memory devices in the garment that allow Aaron to remember to speak to God on behalf of the 12 tribes of Israel.  

Again, we reiterate the fact that God gives so precise directions for the people to prepare for worship of God.  God wanted there to be no room for excuses or inability to perform their worship.  It was necessary for a Just God to accept the worship of a sinful people without the mercy of a Savior! 

Proverbs 5

Such wise counsel every father should offer his son!  There are two warnings within this wise proverb: 1) To the son-do not go near the adulterous woman; and 2) to the daughter-do not be the adulterous woman.  Now you can even flip the roles (son do not be adulterous man; daughter-do not go near the adulterous man).  But this is a teaching that needs to be sounded from the roof top everyday for our world to hear!  Why even the Superbowl commercials speak of adultery in a manner not something to worry about.  It is interesting that Proverbs 4 spoke of a "Godly wisdom" conversation before the father has the "birds and bees" conversation.  Proverbs 5:7--"No my son, listen to me, do not stray from what I am about to say."  A wise charge-FATHERS SPEAK TO YOUR SONS PROUDLY AND MOTHERS SPEAK TO YOUR DAUGHTERS THIS WARNING!!!!!!!!!!  IT IS SO IMPORTANT!!!!!   NO MATTER THERI AGE OR PAST EXPERIENCES!!!!!  IT IS IMPORTANT FOR GOD TO LIST IT HERE!!!!!   IT IS IMPORTANT FOR YOU TO TELL IT TO YOUR KIDS!!!!!!

Adultery (of any kind-extramarital, premarital, pornography) will always catch up!  It will haunt you!   5:9-It will cause you to lose your honor.  5:11-in many cases it will cause disease.  Statistics show today that 1 in 4 teens who are sexually active contract an STD.  5:15-"Drink water from your own well"--sleep and only think of sex with your own spouse.  If you are unmarried, leave the water alone!  5:18--Let YOUR WIFE (or husband) be a fountain of blessing for you.  

This is a graphic chapter in proverbs for a reason.  Sex outside of a marriage has always been a problem.  The primary way to prevent it: Fathers and Mothers-speak to your kids about it and share the wisdom of God with them.  This is the way they will make good choices that will make you proud and glorify God!  

Exodus 25-27 & Proverbs 4

Exodus 25-27

Exodus 25-27 describes for us the instructions that God has given to Moses for the Hebrew people to build a tabernacle.  Its to be built on the offerings of the people (25:1-3).  God requests that the offerings be only the best materials of only the finest quality.  (Think: Are our gifts and offerings to God given with the best and finest that we can?)  The Tabernacle was to be the holy place for Hebrew worship.  In it, offerings will be given to God.  In it, prayers will be spoken by the priests on behalf of the people.  And in it, God will dwell in the Holy of Holies.  There are specific and exact plans given from God for the people to build.  It must be exact.  God does not give us these kind of plans for the church today--because the church is not a building.  The church is a people.  We are given exact practices and ways of living to obey (baptism, Lord's Supper, fellowship, prayer).  

According to the New Testament book of Hebrews 8-9, it is taught that the Tabernacle was built to be a small scale version of what Heaven will be like.  There will be an alter for sacrificial worship, there will be a place where only God lives, there will be a place for congregating, etc.  Above is a picture of what the tabernacle may have looked like according to the specifications given in Exodus 25-27.

Proverbs 4

There is a very simple message found in Proverbs 4--Get Wisdom (verse 5, 6, 7, 8, 12).  Proverbs 4 is a wealth of instructions from a father to his son.  This is one of those "Father-Son" special conversations.  I have encountered several fathers that are nervous about the real "birds and the bees" talk that they must have with their son.  Although that is vitally important, the charge of  a father to his son to seek and hold tight to God's wisdom is even more vital!  For with God's wisdom, the son can become a man who will make good choices that will not only make a father proud but will also bless God!  Fathers--teach your sons this wisdom!  Fathers--follow this wisdom yourself!  Mothers and daughters--follow this wisdom yourself!  Mothers--instill within your daughters a desire to marry a man who follows such wisdom!  

Exodus 21-24 & Proverbs 3

Exodus 21-24

In Exodus 20 we read of the 10 commandments.  Contrary to popular (non-Biblical) thought, these were not the only laws the Israelites were to follow.  Exodus 21-24 begins the first installment of the Book of Law prescribed by God and commanded through Moses to the Israelite people.  These laws cover various aspects of right living according to God such as "How to treat your slave" to "How to treat widows and orphans" to "How to deal with certain crimes" to "How to show hospitality to strangers".  Many of the laws are incredibly specific making sure there is no room left for guessing.  In our American eyes, many of these laws may seem very strange; however, in the eyes of the wandering Israelites, they would be very practical as well as very useful in the future when God gives them the Promised land.  

A question comes to my mind regarding the Jewish law in light of the church today.  Why is God so specific with the Israelites and it seems He leaves so much for judgment for Christians today?  First of all, we need to acknowledge that He is the very same God today that He was then!  We need to understand that.  

Second of all, we need to understand that in the Law system (the Book of Law that is given here in Exodus 21-24, the 10 commandments, etc) there was no method of God issuing unconditional mercy and grace because Jesus had not yet forgiven all sin.  God instead issued a system of law to follow because His justice MUST be satisfied.  Under the law of grace (Jesus), God's justice was satisfied in the death of Jesus.  Therefore, God offers black & white guidelines for right living with the Israelites because the unconditional grace was not yet available.

Third of all, God was preparing a people that would have the Messiah living among them.  In a world of pagan and idol worshipping nations, it would not work for God to send the One True God into a world that worships many Gods.  These laws would prepare the people to be a nation of worshippers for one God not many gods so that the message of the Messiah will be heard.  

Proverbs 3

One of my all time favorite verses of Scripture is found in Proverbs 3.  It is a treasure of wisdom that I would encourage you to remember always in your heart.  Proverbs 3:5-6 "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.  Seek God first, and in all your ways, and He will direct your paths."  This is the thrust of a Christian life fully devoted to God.  It is my goal that every morning I wake up and say to God, "Lord today I will trust You!"  And as I go about my day, when I encounter a decision, even of the lightest value, I pause and ask God, "What do you think Lord?"  Even though there are some decisions that God would not be concerned with either choice, (like should I have chili or a sandwich for lunch?) but in doing this, I place myself in a habit of always submitting my life before God.  I lean not on my own understanding!  

 

Exodus 18-20 & Proverbs 2

Exodus 18-20

Moses is greeted by his father-in-law named Jethro.  Understand that Jethro is not an Israelite.  He was a priest for a pagan religion in Median (the location where Moses ran to when he ran from Egypt).  Jethro came to bring Moses wife and two sons back to him since the work he did against Egypt was probably thought to be unsafe.  When Moses shared the news of what the Lord God had done against Egypt and for Israel, it caused this pagan priest to worship the Lord.  It is true that what God does in our lives can be used as a tool to share God with our non-believing friends.  Our story could change someone else's life!  

Exodus 20 is where we get the 10 commandments.  The first 4 are in reference to our worship of God and the last 6 are in reference to our everyday life.  These are the basics of right living according to God.  It has been said that if we refrain from breaking the first two, that we will never break the last 8.  Think about this for a moment: By commiting adultery, lying, coveting, etc, we are making something else our god rather than the one true God.  At any rate, there is a misconception that if we obey the 10 commandments that we will be fine in getting to heaven.  Understand that the last 6 are easy to not break.  It is the first 4 that take effort and really take a real and lasting relationship with Jesus in order to attain.  Think about that for a minute. 

Proverbs 2

As we read today's proverb, we come to really 2 main points of thought.

1) Wisdom comes from God's Word.  If we want to gain wisdom, we must study God's         word.

2) There is a adulterous woman mentioned.  This woman will be mentioned several more times throughout Proverbs.  She can mean up to two different things.  The adulterous woman may be literal and in order to avoid sexual sin, we must exercise the wisdom that comes from God's word.  Or it may not be literal and she may refer to the opposite of wisdom, what proverbs calls folly.  If we want to not be fools, then we must gain the wisdom from God's word.  Either way, read God's word, soak in its wisdom, and refrain from temptation to sin by using God's word in your life.  

Exodus 15-17 & Proverbs 1

Exodus 15-17

Exodus 14 leaves us with the Egyptians being drowned in the Red Sea by the power of God and the Israelites finally putting their full trust in God and in Moses (for now).  Exodus 15 is a "song of deliverance" as it is called in the heading of my Bible.  So, in response to God's delivery of Israel from Egypt, they praised God in song.  We do that today don't we.  Singing songs of worship is not just reserved for the scheduled song service during the church service.  Sometimes, when you are overwhelmed with praise and thanks to God, a song can express your feelings better to God than you could put into words.  This is why I only listen to Christian music like the radio station K-Love (97.3 fm) or The Wave (105.9 fm) or listen to christian radio on the internet because I love singing songs of worship to God.  I do this all day every day-not just on Sunday mornings.  I give you these radio stations so you too can take advantage of singing worship to God all the time!  

It was not long (three days) before the people turned against Moses again.  They had not had water to drink for three days and began to cry out to Moses "What are we going to drink?"  God provided another miracle and made bitter (possible salt water) into water good to drink.  He tested the Israelites faithfulness in this saying to them, "If you trust me, if you obey me, I will take care of you."  Does God ever say that to you?  Not verbally, but do you ever get the sense that God has said to you, "Trust me"?  

As they left Elim with the clean water and shaded palm trees, the Israelites entered into the desert where again they began to complain against the leadership of Moses and Aaron.  They began wishing they were back in Egypt under the slavery of Egypt for at least they had food to eat.  Have we ever looked at our past and wished things would be like they once were?  At least life was a little more comfortable and I didn't have to be stretched by God.  At least I didn't have to sacrifice a portion of my paycheck to God.  Our grumbling can sometimes distract us from what God is really doing.  We need to keep our eyes open to God and watch as He always will marvel us at what He can do when we trust Him!   

So God heard their cries and answered by provided food.  Each morning when the dew fell, flakes were left on the ground which were called "manna" which translated means "What is it?".   It was a flake that would be milled or crushed and boiled and cakes made from it that tasted like wafers made with honey.  In addition, in the evening, flocks of quail would come through the camp and provide protein for the Israelites.  The miracle of this is that each family took what they needed for the day, and anything left over would instantly attract maggots and a terrible odor.  However, on Friday, a double batch would be gathered and on Saturday, the manna would be good to eat.  God provided in a mighty way for the Israelites in the desert. 

As the Israelites moved from place to place, they came to an area called Rephidim in which there was no drinking water.  The Israelites should know by now that God will provide if they would only ask and trust Him.  We will be reminded of this fact over and over again.  Instead, they grumble and complain again to Moses.  So Moses prayed to God and God told Moses to strike a large rock and out from the rock water came gushing out.  

While Israel was still in Rephidim, the army from Amalek came to fight against Israel for they preyed on other groups of people to kill and plunder from their possessions.  The Amaleks were nomadic and they gained their livelihood from stealing from other groups of people.    Moses calls on Joshua-the military leader of the Israelites.  We will later see how his military background will serve him well for God.  Joshua gathers men for the army of Israel to fight teh Amalekites.  Another miracle of God occurs for as long as Moses kept the staff held in the air, the Israelites were winning; however, when he dropped his hands, they began losing.  So Moses brother Aaron and Hur stood by Moses to keep him strong.  We too need to stand beside our fellow brother and sisters in Christ to hold them strong.  That's God's purpose: to help one another in this life together as God's people.  And by doing so, Israel won its first battle!  

Proverbs 1

So today we will take a break from the Psalms for a month and read through the Proverbs.  So what is a Proverb anyway?  According to Haley's Bible Handbook, "A proverb is a brief, popular statement that expresses a general truth.  Most of the book consists of of unconnected proverbs.  Proverbs are designed primarily for teaching compact, practical statements that stick in the mind."  Chapter one is a sort of preface for the rest of the book.  As chapter one opens, it issues the books purpose; which is to promote wisdom, discipline, understanding, righteousness, justice, equity, prudence, knowledge, discretion, learning, and guidance.  Much of the book of Proverbs are written from King Solomon (King David's son and heir to the Kingdom of Israel).  The continuing challenge is to LISTEN to these proverbs.   Packed in them are wise instruction for right living.  But the starting point for knowledge and wisdom is this (verse 7): "Fear of the Lord is the beginning!"  Fear=honor and respect for God, to live in awe of His power, and to obey His Word found in the Bible.  Do you truly fear the Lord?     

Day of Reflection

Today is the Day of Reflection!  If you have possibly missed a day of reading or are behind, use today to get one day caught up.  Otherwise, read through something that caught your attention last week.  So what are you reflecting upon today?  Please post your reflection status!

Exodus 12-14 & Psalm 23

Exodus 12-14

As God had instructed the Israelites through Moses, each family selected a 1 year old lamb without defects and slaughtered it for a meal.  Using its blood, the smeared their doorposts to prevent the death angel from coming in with the tenth and final plague.  To the Israelites, this would be a joyous festival to celebrate; however, to the Egyptians this would be a disastrous tragedy that they wished would never had happened.  Don't you see how when one hardens his heart before God and rejects the Word of the Lord what the evil in his heart can do?  God instructed the Israelites with precise details how to celebrate the festival.  

After the death angel swept through Egypt, Pharaoh (after the death of his son) and all of Egypt forcefully sent the Israelites away.  However, it was not long (three days) before Pharaoh's heart was hardened again and sought after the Israelites to bring them back.  This was a 2 million person slave force.  Without them, the economy in Egypt would be drastically different!  

But when the people of Israel noticed that Pharaoh's army was quickly approaching, all of God's miracles were forgotten and they cried out to Moses to go back willingly so that they would not die in the desert.  How quickly do we forget God's work in our lives when it seems that we are on our own?  The truth is that we are never on our own.  God is always on the side of those who place their full trust in Him!  

And God saw them through.  This is another mighty miracle as the people crossed the Red Sea on DRY GROUND!  2 million+ people cross the Red Sea on DRY GROUND!  The ground underneath a creek bed takes weeks to dry out in the drought of summer.  This happened overnight in a SEA!  

Even more astounding than this, is that in the same 24 hour period, after the 2 million+ Israelites had crossed on dry ground, God closed in the walls of the Red Sea and all of Pharaoh's army drowned!  Think about this: we are told that Pharaoh sent 600 chariots (14:7) and countless other horsemen and foot soldiers.  A likely army of several thousand!  If they all drowned,  (not a single one survived) then they would have had to have been too far from shore to swim for safety.  Understand that with their heavy armor one would probably sink to the bottom anyway.  The mighty miracle of our Creator God is incredible to comprehend.  But as Israel watched on, and as dead Egyptian soldiers washed up to shore, they placed their full trust in God and in Moses (for now).  

Psalm 23

This is probably one of the most well known chapters in all of the Bible.  It has been used for joyous occasions and somber occasions alike.  Its words were written by David probably when he was still a shepherd boy before he was ever chosen by God to be king of Israel.  David was a shepherd in the fields of Bethlehem.  So the words are penned with the landscape of his work in mind.  The green meadows and quiet streams that are described are the prime locations any shepherd would like for his sheep to graze and enjoy.  So to, in the New Testament, Jesus is referred to as the good shepherd (John 10:11); the great Shepherd (Hebrews 13:20); and the head Shepherd (1 Peter 5:4).  Jesus, our Shepherd desires to lead us where we would be the best taken care of and where we would be the most satisfied.  Instead, when we wander astray from the good Shepherd's guidance, we also wander from the protection and comfort of the Shepherd.  But He promises to leave the other 99 to find the 1 (Luke 15).  It is really interesting to think that as David pens these words, little did he know that 1000 years later the angels would announce to the shepherds in these same fields the birth of the head Shepherd, the Messiah, Jesus.  

Exodus 9-11 & Psalm 22:12-31

Exodus 9-11

Exodus 9 continues with the plagues of God upon Egypt and its Pharaoh.  God has caused Pharaoh's heart to be hardened against the Plagues because He wants to be the God of all.  So God continues to show that the gods of Egypt are worthless in these plagues.

The fifth plague of the death of all of Egypt's livestock.  But none of Israel's livestock will suffer.  The day this happened, all of Egypt's horses, cattle, donkeys, camels, and sheep fell dead.  But none of Israel's were harmed.  The cow in Egypt were the supreme gods in their pagan worship.  The cow was the head goddess who oversaw all mothers.  The bull was the "creator" god who was also the god of fertility.  But God put to death both of these gods with this plague and Pharaoh was still refusing to allow Israel to go.

The sixth plague was the plague of boils.  Upon the skin of both humans and animals that were left alive, boils broke out with great pain.  With this plague, God put to death the god of medicine for the Egyptians for this was something no medicine could cure.  Even the magicians broke out in boils and yet Pharaoh still would not let Israel go. 

The seventh plague was preceded with a warning.  A great hailstorm will begin and the people of Egypt were challenged to seek cover or they will die.  Some had feared God enough that they listened; but, there were still some who had no respect for God's word and they were left out and died.  When we do not obey the word of the Lord, it will have great consequences on our lives! The hailstorm was so great that it left Egypt in ruins.  God showed them all that their pagan gods of the sky, the goddess of life, and the god who protected the crops were useless. Pharaoh finally confessed his sin.  But confession is not enough is it.  For even though Pharaoh admitted his sin, he still refused to allow the Israelites to leave.

The eighth plague is of the locusts.  Even when the palace officials to Pharaoh advised the Pharaoh allow the Israelites to go, he still refused.  But rather, he tried to strike a deal with Moses.  "Who will go?"  Pharaoh asked.  "I will allow just the men,"  He said.  But since they all could not go, Moses lifted his staff and the locusts came and ate all that was green and all plant life died as a result.  Again, God showed that the goddess of life and the god who protected the crops were of no match of the God of the universe!   "I have sinned," Pharaoh said again.  And the locusts was blown away; but, Pharaoh still had a hard heart and would not let them go.

The ninth plague was the plague of darkness.  It became utterly dark for three days.  No one could see.  God showed to Egypt that they sun gods were of no match for the God of the heavens.  With this plague, Pharaoh attempted once more to compromise and allow all of Israel to go but to leave their cattle.  This was not what God has said, so Pharaoh's heart was hardened and would not allow them to go.

Then Moses announced the tenth and final plague to Pharaoh.  He said to him that the spirit of God will pass through Egypt and every firstborn will die.  The firstborn child of the families and the first born animal.  Egypt will suffer greatly.  But the Israelites will not suffer.  For God has made a distinction between Egypt and Israel.  This will put to death the gods that Egypt worshipped--the god who is the giver of life; and Pharaoh who was worshipped as a god among the Egyptians.  The God of heaven is greater that all other gods that Egypt had worshipped.  

Psalm 22:12-31

As we pick up in this Psalm that we began yesterday, we can sense the real agony that David must feel.  He feels abandoned by God.  He feels completely surrounded by his enemies.  Psalm 22:16-18 again is a prophecy of Jesus' death on the cross.  According to Matthew 27:35, Jesus' hands and feet were pierced with nails as he was nailed to the cross.  In addition Mark 15:24 tells us that the roman soldiers gambled for the clothing of Jesus.  The reference to the enemies being "dogs", "lions", and "wild oxen" makes me picture the sheer violence and viciousness of those oppressing David (as were the roman soldiers who persecuted Jesus).  Psalm 22:22 takes a turn in attitude.  Where David was crying out to God not to ignore him, beginning in verse 22, David beings praising God for not ignoring him.  God never did ignore him.  Although God may not always answer our prayers the way we believe that He should; He listens and He hears.  God's plan may differ from ours.  Therefore, we must submit to God to be ruler and authority over our situations and trust in His plan.  Only then can we truly come from trials praising God for His intervention!  

 

Exodus 5-8 & Psalm 22:1-11

Exodus 5-8

Moses has been instructed to go back to Egypt and gain the support of the Israelites and then go to Pharaoh and request him to allow God's people to go and worship Him and leave Egypt.  After gaining the support of the Israelites in Exodus 4, Moses then goes before Pharaoh in Exodus 5.  He and Aaron (his brother) say this to Pharaoh, "God says, 'Let my people go, for they must go into the wilderness to worship me.'"  Pharaoh in his disbelief in God and in his selfish contempt for Israel, refuses to allow them to go and on top of that, he doubles their workload.  This causes great hostility among the Israelites and causes Moses to doubt the mission God has sent him on.  We should know that when God challenges us with a task, the way will not always be paved smooth and the road be easy to travel.  

God has caused Pharaoh's heart to harden and not listen to Him.  Why would God have done this?  I believe that it was exactly what God said in Exodus 7:3-so that God can prove Himself to the Israelites and the Egyptians.  If Pharaoh were to immediately give in, then the Israelites might have placed their full trust and worship in Moses.  But God must have the credit for this miracle!

The Plague of blood, although duplicated by the magicians of Pharaoh's palace, was devastating for it poisoned all drinking and cleaning water.  Not only that, but all of the living in the water were killed!  This put a drastic end to the most popular food to be eaten.  Finally this brought devastation upon the Egyptian pagan worship for part of the worship was for the River god and the gods of the great alligators who lived in the river.  

The second plague was the plague of the frogs.  This was an insult to the Egyptian god of resurrection who watched over childbirth who was in the form of a frog.  Again, God takes aim at their worship and announces that He is a mightier God!  Pharaoh was convinced and allowed Israel to go tomorrow; but he soon changed his mind after the frogs had all died.

The third plague was of gnats. The dust of the ground became swarms of gnats which was probably more of a annoyance than anything.  When the magicians could not imitate this plague, they told Pharaoh that this certainly was of God and that Pharaoh should give in.  But his heart remained hard and refused.

The fourth plague is of flies.  This time God caused the miracle to single out only the Egyptians.  The flies would not swarm around the Israelite homes. only the Egyptians.  When this happened, Pharaoh called for Moses and Aaron and attempted to compromise with them.  "Offer your sacrifices here in Egypt."  We cannot be tempted to compromise the word of God.  If God says something, do just that.  If God says do not lie, then do not compromise and think that avoiding the truth is a good idea.  Compromising God's standard will never do.  Pharaoh gives in and says that he will allow the Israelites to go, but hs soon changes his mind and hardens his heart. 

Psalm 22:1-11

This is a Psalm that as you read, you will picture Jesus on the cross.  In fact, much of this Psalm is a direct prophecy of Jesus' suffering on the cross.  Psalm 22:1 speaks for itself, "My God, My God, why have you forsaken me." Obviously David is enduring some great trial here.  And this is not a cry of doubt to God; rather, it is a cry of appeal to God of "HELP!"  This is what Jesus said on the cross (Matthew 27:46).  We have probably found ourselves in such a difficult trail that we have said to God, "Where are you?"  "I need you!"  "Why are you not listening to me?"  Don't you know that God is a big enough God to hear our cries like this?  He can handle our criticism such as this. Although we end today's Psalm reading in an awkward place, we can be assured that God does hear our cries!  Sometimes we may feel that He is ignoring them; but He hears them and He will answer them (we will read that in Psalm 22:24)!