What Enslaves Us?

O. T. #2098  "What Enslaves Us?"

Dec. 31, 2021

Amos 1-Part 4

LET IT GLOW

Psalm 135:3 tells us to Praise the LORD: for the LORD is good: sing praises unto His name; for it is pleasant.

In the Hebrew language, good means good in the wildest sense; precious; kindly; loving.

Verse 5 says, For I know that the LORD is great, and that our Lord is above all gods.

Great refers to exceedingly; mighty; noble.

Our God is so good that He is good in the wildest sense and so great that He is exceedingly above all. Is that your God? How is God to you, supreme over worthless idols and has sovereign power over all creation? Certainly He is incomparable!

So why do we fret and worry over things beyond our control? Our precious Savior can do all things, for Nothing is impossible for God. (Luke 1:37)

Dear one, God has got this. Sometimes we just need to be reminded, right?

LET IT GROW

The second nation that came under God's judgment was Gaza. (verses 6-8) God said, I will not turn away the punishment thereof.

What had Gaza done to God's people that resulted in His punishment?

• These major cities were in Philistia, located on the west side of Judah along the Mediterranean Coast. The Philistine armies raided communities, captured the people, and sold them as slaves to Edom. (verse 6) They were often the enemies of Israel.
• God condemns kidnapping and selling humans into slavery. (Exodus 21:16)
• God promised to curse those who curse His people. (Genesis 12:3)
• Gath had been destroyed earlier by King Uzziah, so it is not mentioned here. (2Chron. 26:6)

Amos's prophesy was literally fulfilled when Hezekiah smote the Philistines, even unto Gaza, and the borders, from the tower of the watchmen to the fenced city were smote. (2Kings 18:8)

The Gaza strip seems to always be challenged. God gave it to Israel, but the Arabs want it.

• Fire would descend upon the Philistine cities, and the people would perish. (Amos 1:7-8) [The Tony Evans Bible Commentary]

Have we become slaves to something? Our job, credit cards, government, people , or attitudes can make us slaves to them. Jesus came to set us free. He intends for us to be free financially so we can give freely to kingdom work.

 

LET IT GO

How good and great You are, our God Almighty!

You do exceedingly beyond all we can think or ask.

May we be found a faithful servant today.

Set us free from the financial chains.

Praise to our God most High!

How Are We Treating Others?

O. T. #2097 "How Are We Treating Others?"

Dec. 30, 2021

Amos 1-Part 3

LET IT GLOW

Psalm 134:1-2 is the last of those songs of the ascents, worshipers sang as they made their way to Jerusalem to worship God. The Levites served as watchmen of the Temple, protecting it day and night. This was an act of praising God in service, which was done reverently and responsibly. (Life Application Study Bible)

Behold, bless ye the LORD, all ye servants of the LORD, which by night stand in the house of the LORD. Lift up your hands in the sanctuary, and bless the LORD. The LORD that made heaven and earth bless thee out of Zion. (verses 1-3)

Is our job or responsibility in the church an act of praise? Do we do it with reverence to God? Are we honoring Him in our work and our attitude?

 

LET IT GROW

God was not going to relent from punishing 8 nations, 6 of which treated the people of Israel badly. Here we go, friend. Let's dive in and see what angered God against them. What had they done?

1. Judgment on Syria (verses 3-5)

Damascus was the capital city of Aram, modern Syria, which bordered Israel on the north. Their sin was the harsh treatment of Gilead, located east of the Jordan River. (Tribes of Reuben, Gad, and 1/2 of Manasseh lived there.)

It is believed that Syria used iron threshing instruments, sharp and used to beat out the grain, on the people of Gilead. The Israeli bodies were torn and mangled, threshed like grain stalks. Such barbarian and inhumane acts. Cruelty to the max, don't you think?

Fire represents the holiness and judgment of God. What happened to them?

• King Hazael and his son Benhadad were killed. (verse 4)
• Damascus lost its power, city gate where business was conducted, was destroyed. (verse 5)
• King Josiah defeated Ben-Hadad three times. (2 Kings 13:25)
• Assyrians finally subdued Syria and took them into captivity.

[Resources: The Wiersbe Bible Commentary, Liberty Bible Commentary]

There is no place to hide from God. He sees all. How well are we treating God's people? Are there secret sins we need to confess? Even though the sins of our neighbors may seem worse than ours, keep in mind that God is no respecter of persons. He judges all people fairly and impartially.

LET IT GO

May we be found praising our God, no matter what comes our way today.

Praise Him on our jobs, in our community, and in the worship service.

You are Good God Almighty!

Help us to love our neighbors, showing them kindness.

Empting My Can

O. T. #2096  "Empting My Can"

Dec. 29, 2021

Amos 1-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

Before we begin the doom and gloom for 8 nations, prophesied by Amos, let's look into Psalm 133:1, Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!

The word unity means alike, together, a unit.

This was true for the tribes of Israel back then and is true for God's people and churches today. How beautiful it is when believers in Christ gather for worship of the One True God and Savior!

How does David compare this unity?

• It is like precious ointment upon the head. When sheep get a sore upon their head, the shepherd would put oil/ointment upon it.
• It is like when oil was used to anoint Aaron as the high priest of Israel; it was abundantly and extravagantly ran down his beard and robe. He was consecrated for his God-appointed task. Unity among God's people brings divine consecration to them. (verse 2)
• It is like the dew that covered the mountains from north to south in Israel. So the brethren is blanketed with unity as they serve the Savior Jesus Christ. (verse 3)
• When unity and harmony is amidst God's church, He blesses them with peace, showing He is pleased. Do we desire blessings overflowing, showered upon us, refreshing us, even giving us life everlasting? (verse 3)

How pleasant and wonderful harmony and unity is in our church, family, and job. What do we need to do for this to happen? Are we all surrendered to do God's will God's way?

[Resource: The Tony Evans Bible Commentary, Liberty Bible Commentary] 

LET IT GROW

What do you do when you have had enough? I say that when my can is full, it is time to empty it. When I put up with something or someone over and over and over again, my patience runs out and I tell them why or what is wrong or unacceptable and it must stop. Don't get me wrong, I consider myself a fairly patient person, but there comes a point in which one must stand up for their self. In our lessons to come, God had had enough and was about to empty His can.

Amos jumps right in with both feet and warns 6 neighboring nations of Israel, saving Judah and Israel for last. (1:3-2:16) Each judgment of God begins with this phrase: For three transgressions of_____, and for four...

Transgressions refers to rebellion, sin, to break away, quarrel, revolt.

These nations were guilty of an incalculable number of offenses. God's cup was full of their sins and overflowing, so judgment must fall. Mathematically, 3 transgressions fill the cup and 4 can cause it to overflow. Judgment was inevitable and once announced, irrevocable. (Falwell)

These nations had maxed out on their sins. wickedness had reached its full measure, and they were ripe for judgment. It was time. We will get into each one of those nations individually.

LET IT GO

Jesus, pour love on us so it will overflow onto others.

May it be like jelly on a biscuit. May we share it with others, telling them about what Jesus did for you and me. If they reject the witness, it is on their head, not ours.

Give us patience, Lord to endure whatever so You are honored.

Give us strength to stand when it is time.

A Roaring Lion Has Our Back

O. T. #2095  "A Roaring Lion Has Our Back"

Dec. 28, 2021

Amos 1

LET IT GLOW

As I look back over the events of this year, sorrow and pain came (loosing 2 close brother preachers), blessings and good times were there (seeing our family together), as well as uncertainty. What a long year of waiting on the Lord to give specific directions as to where and what for us. Then doors crack open just a little bit. At times my faith was wavering, dangling from a thread. How about you, friend?

But God is faithful. He shares His strength to carry on, and we keep trusting that He knows what He is doing.  The Lord has not failed me yet. We cry out for help, and receive it with empty hands held up towards Him. Prepare us for what is on the read ahead, just around the bend.

Jesus shares His boundless love with no strings attached. We dig deeper in His Word and find love, His faithfulness. We lean on His everlasting arms wrapped around us. Help is on the way. We don't need to be afraid

We praise Jesus for coming to earth to be our Savior. Doing what we could not do for our self, saving us from our sins. 

God was reconciling the world to Himself in Christ, not counting men's sins against them. (2 Corinthians 5:19)

He is Good God Almighty. May we praise His name no matter what comes into our life. so we carry the light into a dark world; we take with us truth and the sword along our way wherever we go; we obey and follow the Savior, our peace; and joy swells up and spills over into a hurting world.; hope becomes real. Jesus is the answer to our whatever.

LET IT GROW

Hosea's message emphasized the love of God, but a God of love who also intends to judge. Amos spoke of the lofty justice and the inflexible righteousness of God which leads Him to judge. Although Amos was a country preacher from out yonder in the desert, he used the language of a Shakespeare. (McGee)

As mentioned previously, Amos was a shepherd and fig grower from the southern kingdom of Judah, but he prophesied to the northern kingdom of Israel. Israel was prosperous and powerful at that time. Idols were worshiped throughout the land, especially at Bethel, its religious center. God's people had descended into moral and religious corruption. Israel had cut themselves off from the temple in Jerusalem and worship of God. Around 60 years later, God sent Assyria to destroy Samaria and conquer Israel (722 BC). Jeroboam II reigned in Israel from 793-753 as king there.

Amos prophecies the judgments of God against 8 nations, including Israel. He shares the visions God gave him and the restoration to come.

How is God depicted in verse 2? He will roar as a lion from Zion, Jerusalem. The flock of sheep (people) in God's pasture was in danger. Israel needed to repent of their sins lest the Lion of Judah devours them.

A kingdom man can speak with boldness when he knows the source of his message. (Tony Evans)

Amos proclaimed the message God gave him. Are we doing the same? There is no need to fear when the Lion of Judah backs us up.

Is God shaking up your world, like He did two years later as an earthquake shook the land? (verse 1)

LET IT GO

Lord, You have our backs, so may we proclaim salvation in Jesus.

Jesus, be our strength and refuge.

Fill us with Your love, faith, peace, and joy.

An Insignificant Man With a Significant Job

O. T. #2094  "An Insignificant Man With a Significant Job"

Dec. 27, 2021

The words of Amos, who was among the herdmen of Tekoa, which he saw concerning Israel in the days of Uzziah king of Judah, and in the days of Jeroboam the son of Joash king of Israel, two years before the earthquake. (Amos 1:1)

Introduction to Amos

The Author:

The meaning of this minor prophet of God, Amos, means Burdensome, in the Hebrew language, according to Strong's concordance. Commentaries say it means burden-bearer.

It was a sacrificial time for this sheep breeder and herder to leave his hill country of Tekoa, a village located about 10 miles south of Jerusalem. He was not a prophet by vocation. I like how J.Vernon McGee described Amos, "The Country Preacher Who Came to Town." Amos grew long wool for the cold wintertime.

Also, Amos was a gardener of sycamore trees, a fig grower if you please. This farmer would have been very rustic in appearance, a clumsy bumpkin sort of man, turned country preacher.

Setting:

Amos was a contemporary with Jonah and Hosea, who were prophets in the northern kingdom of Israel, and with Isaiah and Micah, who were prophets in the southern kingdom of Judah. He prophesied in the eighth century BC, during the reigns of King Uzziah (792-740BC) of Judah and King Jeroboam II (793-753 BC) of Israel.

The village where Amos was born and grew up, Tekoa, was located on a hilly ridge overlooking a desert wilderness that continue along the edge of the Dead Sea. Wild animals howled at night and the scenery was not a resort sort. Nomads and vagabonds of the desert moved through that area.

Historically, a woman from Tekoa had helped reconcile David and his rebellious son, Absalom. (2 Samuel 14)

Purpose:

Amos was sent with a message from God to awaken Israel and its surrounding nations to show them that they were responsible and accountable for their sins.

Outline:

1. Introduction to the Prophecy (1:1-2)
2. Judgment upon the Nations (1:3-2:16)
3. Four Messages of Condemnation (3:1-6, 14)
4. Five Symbolic Visions of Judgment (7:1-9:10)
5. The Vision of Summer Fruit (8:1-14)
6. the Vision of the Lord Standing by the Altar (9:1-10)
7. The Conclusion of the Prophecy: The Restoration of the Davidic Kingdom (9:11-15)

[Resource: Liberty Bible Commentary]

 

Spiritual Lessons:

Although Amos raised sheep, which was not a particularly spiritual job, became a channel of God's message to others. Do we feel our job is insignificant nor successful? It is as vital when we work in the place God wants us to be. He can work through us to do extraordinary things, no matter how ordinary our occupation.

Are we faithful in teaching God's Word to children week after week? Do you take care of grandchildren? It is essential part of Kingdom work. Don't forget it, dear believer.  

 

 

What is Eating Up Your Joy?

O. T. #2093 "What is Eating Up Your Joy?"

Dec. 24, 2021

Summary of Joel

LET IT GLOW

... and let thy saints shout for joy. (Psalm 132:9b)

What produces joy in your life? Do you have something to shout for joy about? Is your joy found in Jesus? Or is it found in things and money? Is our desire to love God with all of our heart, serve Him will all of our will, doing  His will?

God sent down love to us when Jesus came. Have you found this love? Are we living by faith our by sight today? Jesus told us how we should live-love God and love others as our self. Are we?

Things to ponder today.

LET IT GROW

One more time let us take a look at what god said through His prophet Joel. One of the things that stands out to me is the warning that a locust plague was coming. Although Joel did not specifically name the sins of Israel, it is understood-idolatry.

Did you know that locust are grasshopper-like insects? They eat up green plants when a swarm attacks an area. I recall seeing grasshoppers everywhere in several summers. Not only was their noise bad to put up with, but their devouring the plants was also.

So that leads us to so some serious thinking as we have the close of 2021 coming. Do we have locusts in our life? If we were to make a Can we make a list of what kind of locusts eat up our joy, what would be on it? Is a critical spirit there? How about worry for our future? How about the health of our loved ones or our self? How about the pressures to buy gifts for everyone in our circle?

So as we live in a joyous time of year, is Jesus our joy?

 

LET IT GO

Keep our focus on You, Lord Jesus Christ.

You alone can give us inner peace and everlasting joy amidst troubles.

Please bless all who read this with salvation and joy today!

Merry Christmas everyone!

Hope in Weariness

O. T. #2092 "Hope in Weariness"

Dec. 23, 2021

Summary of Joel

LET IT GLOW

Dear friend, where is your hope today?

I wait for the LORD, my soul doth wait, and in His Word do I hope. (Psalm 130:5)

Let Israel hope in the LORD: for with the LORD there is mercy, and with Him is plenteous redemption. (verse 7)

Need some hope? Here is where we get it-Jesus, the Savior of the world. He has mercy and redemption. May He bless you exceedingly abundantly above all we think or ask.

 

LET IT GROW

As we look back over just three chapters which contain the prophecies of Joel, what did we learn?

• Joel's name in Hebrew means Johovah (is his) God. What a fitting name for Joel, for he proclaimed Almighty God was/is in charge of events in this world and His children.
• Joel's message was to Israel, warning them to repent of their idolatry and immorality, lest judgment would come-the plague of locust and the Day of the Lord.
• Israel did not head the warnings and the Assyrian empire was sent to wipe out the ten Northern Tribes, their land, and treasures.
• It was 210 years later that Babylon conquered Judah and Jerusalem because of the same sins.
• When all human hope is gone, Jesus is there.
• Then Jesus will return to earth to reign as King and cleanse all of sin,.

Joel 2:32 says, And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the LORD shall be delivered...

Have you called on Jesus, asking forgiveness of your sins, and be your Savior?

Are you choosing to follow, obey, and worship God alone as your Sovereign Lord?

And rend your heart, and not your garments and turn unto the LORD your God: for He is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and repenteth Him of the evil. (Joel 2:13)

Our God is gracious and merciful and has great kindness. Will you turn to Him today?

LET IT GO

It's all about You, Jesus.

You are our hope of salvation, hope of eternal life.

There is no other.

Are You Blessed?

O. T. #2091    "Are You Blessed?"

Dec. 22, 2021

Joel 3-Part 5

LET IT GLOW

Blessed is every one that feareth the LORD; that walketh in His ways. (Ps. 128:1)

Behold, that thus shall the man be blessed that feareth the LORD. (verse 4)

Four times a form of the word blessed appears in this chapter. In verse 1, blessed means happy; happiness; while in verse 4, blessed means to bless God as an act of adoration, praise, thank.

Feareth refers to reverent, which appears twice.

So in verse 1, we are being told, if we want to be happy, then we should reverent the LORD and follow His ways. When we praise, thank, adore, and reverence the LORD Jesus, we will enjoy the fruit of our labor, and we will be blessed with children and grandchildren.

God works through individuals and families. Our love should extend into the church and our community. Are we watching for His working and blessings?

LET IT GROW

Looking at verses 17-21, we read what will happen after judgment is poured out. Everything will change after King Jesus returns to reign. Joel promises:

• a Holy City, Jerusalem; Eight times this phrase is used in Scriptures, so Jerusalem will be cleansed of the evil ones and sin.(verse 17)
• a restored land; It will be as a land flowing with milk and honey, in addition to water and wine. (verses 18-19)
• a cleansed people; Their sins will be forgiven and God will restore them Himself.
• a Glorious King will dwell there-Jehovah Shammah, The LORD is There.

Joel's prophecy begins with tragedy and ends with triumph as the King of kings and LORD of lords reigns. And Christ shall forever and ever. (Rev. 11:15) The rider on the white horse, Jesus Christ, will come and set all things right. (Rev. 19:11) Come Lord Jesus.

 

LET IT GO

Thank You Jesus for coming to earth, endured temptations and harsh treatment. What a Wonderful Savior, the Lamb of God who takes away our sins!

We honor, love, and adore You, Holy One of Israel.

Such grace and mercy You show us everyday.

Thank You for the abundant life You alone provide.

We are looking to the everlasting life that You, Jesus have for us.

Celebrating 20 Years of Life

Celebrating 20 Years of Life

But I have spared you for a purpose-to show you My power and to spread My fame throughout the earth. (Exodus 9:16 NLT)

Today is a special day for me. It was 20 years ago that I was in the hospital as I had a hysterectomy. Everything went well during the surgery, so I went into a patient room. I recall being groggy, trying to wake up. A nurse told me about the morphine button for pain medication. I guess I was thinking she told me to push it, which was not true, so I did. Either I had too much in my body already or the medicine was not regulated correctly, anyway, it resulted in my stopping to breath.

Whenever my husband came in to see me, my lips were turning blue. He went out in the hall and yelled for help. A nurse rushed into my room, saw what was happening, and called for code blue. My family doctor and gynecologist came. They knew what to give me to counteract the morphine. Obviously it worked. Now I don't believe in coincidences. I believe the Lord had my help available at the right place and at the right time.

When I awoke, the medical team and family surrounded my bed. I was groaning  from the pain. I thought how privileged I was to have such a caring team.  The doctor said it was a beautiful sound to him, and that he could not give me anything for the pain yet. It was not beautiful to me.

So I thank God for extending my life that day, December 21, 2021. (Obviously, He was not through with me here on earth.) Now during that experience, I did not have an out-of-body experience. I was sleeping.

Had I died that day, there were so many things I would have missed out on. Mostly, my walk with Christ, having Him with me during trying times, rejoicing times, and not-understanding times. So today I thank God for life and breath. 

Friend, are you ready to go to your everlasting life? Will it be with Jesus or in darkness? Jesus came down to earth to live with mankind, and to become our sacrifice for our sins. Is He your Savior today?

Psalm 138:8 NLT says, The Lord will work His plans for my life-for Your faithful love, O Lord, endures forever.  

 

 

Hope in Darkness

O. T. #2089  "Hope in Darkness"

Dec. 17, 2021

Joel 3-Part 3

LET IT GLOW

Before His ministry, Jesus was a carpenter. (Mark 6:3) He is currently building His church in this world. (Matt. 16:18) Jesus calls us to build our lives, our homes, our churches, and the kingdom of God around the world. (The church is the people.) Without Jesus we can do nothing. (John 15:5)

Psalm 127:1a says, Except the LORD build the house, they labor in vain that build it...

A family without God can never experience the spiritual bond God brings to relationships. Evil and corruption are allowed inside to tear down the home and family.

Is God our highest priority in our home and family? Are we letting Him do the building of faith, love, purity, hope, and trust? Do our children see us praying and reading God's Word? Are we instilling those in their lives, too?

LET IT GROW

Need some hope today as we live in this messed up world? Continue reading.

Joel continues to warn the people of the Day of the Lord and the Great Tribulation to come. Even when darkness surrounds us, we can still have hope in our life. Look at verses 15-17.

... but the LORD will be the hope of His people, and the strength of the children of Israel. (verse 16c)

Hope means a shelter, refuge, trust.

Is the Lord Jesus your hope of eternal salvation? Is He your hope as you live in the world?

Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful. (Hebrews 10:23)

Hope in the Christian's life is not wishful thinking. It is confident expectation. The Lord of the universe is also over every circumstance we experience. We can live with confidence because our hope is in One who is faithful. (Blackaby)

LET IT GO

Jesus, You alone are our hope.

We place our trust in You, our Savior and King.

Strengthen us as we go throughout this day.

Glory to God in the Highest!

What a wonderful Gift!

O. T. #2090   "What a Wonderful Gift!"

Dec. 20, 2021

Joel 3-Part 4

So shall ye know that I am the LORD your God dwelling in Zion, My holy mountain: then shall Jerusalem be holy, and there shall no strangers pass through her any more. (verse 17)

LET IT GLOW

Can you think back to the times you have listened/watched children programs at Christmastime? What a sweet sound as precious innocent ones sing about our Savior and His praises. They seem to be able to touch hearts like no other, right?

In looking at Psalm 127 again, we find that children are a blessing and gift from the Lord, a reward.

Lo, children are an heritage of the LORD: and the fruit of the womb is His reward. As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man; so are children of the youth. Happy is the man that hath his quiver full of them. (verses 3-5a)

Children should be treated as a wonderful inheritance, who are given loving care and training. Unfortunately, it is too common that children are a burden instead of a blessing, a treasure. Society often looks down on a family of 4 or more children. (Our daughter has 6 and niece has 5.)

If we do not teach our children to know and love the Truth in God's Word, who will? Then in years to come, who will plant the seeds of Truth and fight the battles against evil? If parents do not shape their children with Christian qualities, and aim them in the right direction (toward Jesus), who will? If they do not see moms and dads live depending upon God by faith, where will they find it?

Not every couple is blessed with children. However, they can value, pray for, be examples, protect and give spiritual teachings to other children.

Too many wrong examples are being exposed to our precious children of sinful lifestyles nowadays. We must point out to them what is right and wrong according to God's Word. Protect them as much as we can from sinful influences.

So next time we see a mother with several children at the grocery store, let's offer them a helping hand, encourage them, let them know how blessed they are to have those priceless gifts hanging onto their leg.

LET IT GROW

Joel is speaking in the third chapter of the coming promises of restoration of Judah and Jerusalem, as well as the Day of the Lord, the Great Tribulation period, and judgment upon the enemies of them.

When the sun and moon darken everything, and He roars out of Zion, and earth shakes, look up, for your Redemption is nigh. Jesus will be the hope and strength of His people.

What are the effects upon Jerusalem and Judah when God pours out His judgment?

• They will know that Jehovah is God.
• They will know He is in their midst.
• Jerusalem will be holy
• Strangers will not violate Jerusalem and Judah anymore. [Liberty Bible Commentary]

Wow! What a contrast of the fate of Israel and the nations. Isaiah 51 described Jerusalem, the Holy City, and Israel as a desert turned into a garden, where there will be thanksgiving and melodies of praise sung to Jesus and joy and gladness will be.

Folks, we don't have to wait for Jesus to return, for He is here with us right now in the form of the Holy Spirit. He can give us joy and gladness overflowing as we rejoice in a Savior being born, dying on a cross, and rising from the dead so we can have live forevermore with Him.

Dear one, do you know this Blessed Savior Jesus? Have you admitted your sins to Him and asked His forgiveness yet? He loves you so much and is waiting to give you His gift.

LET IT GO

Thank You Jesus for coming as a baby, living a perfect and sinless life among a sinful mankind.

May we never get over such a miraculous and wonderful gift You have given!

Thank You for the blessings of children in our families and churches and communities. May we raise them in the admiration of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Great Things

O. T. #2088   "Great Things"

Dec. 16, 2021

Joel 3-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

Psalm 126 contains two outstanding verses:

The LORD hath done great things for us; whereof we are glad. (verse 3)

They that sow in tears shall reap in joy. He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him. (verses 5-6)

There was a time that God did great things for the Jews and they gave Him the glory.

If you can explain what is going on, God did not do it. (Dr. Bob Cook)

Have you been utterly astonished by events that have taken place in your life? Some things can only be explained by God did it.

I think of the recent surgery and recovering of our dear sister in law. She was told she had cancer in a large tumor on her ovary. Later, she was told it was an 80% chance it was not cancerous. Hope arose for our family. We all kept praying for her, and God answered with a cancer-free diagnosis. Tears of joy ran down my face. It was a God-thing, He did it with His mercy. Thank You Heavenly Father.

Have you had any God-things lately in your life or family?

It pleases the Lord when we water with our tears the seed of the Word that we sow. We cannot reap if we do not first sow the seed, and the seed must be watered with our tears and our prayers. some blessings God sends suddenly, and some come in the course of time, and some come as we patiently sow and weep. (Wiersbe)

In due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. (Galatians 6:9)

Are you ready to reap what you have sown?

 

LET IT GROW

In verses 9-14, we find that God will deal with His enemies. They will prepare for war with God. Judgment will come, eventually and completely. The enemies that God will judge are almost numberless; they are multitudes. The Great Tribulation period will culminate with the death of every last unbelieving human being on the face of the earth.

Multitudes will be in the Valley of Decision. Will they repent of their sins, believe in, and surrender to Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior before it is too late?

What about you dear friend? Are you in the Valley of Decision right now? It will be too late once you die, so turn to Jesus and be saved from the penalty of your sins right now. Jesus loves you so much that He took your place in order for you (and me) to not have to pay for your sins eternally. Jesus is the only way to heaven.

Believer, will you pray with me that all who read this will come to know Jesus as their Savior?

LET IT GO

Heavenly Father, thank You for such a wonder plan, becoming a man, one of us, so we can have everlasting life in heaven with You. We are sinners in need of a Savior today.

We owe You our all, our breath of life and beat of our heart, as well as salvation by faith in Jesus.

Such love demonstrated when You came down in Jesus Christ to die on a cross for our sins, our Sacrificial Lamb that takes away the sins of the world.

I pray all who read this will surrender to You, Jesus, admitting they are sinners in need of a Savior. Give them faith to believe in You today.

You alone are God, and can do great things.

Refresh Your children today.

Glory to God in the Highest!

Praise to Jesus the Only Savior!

Peace is Available

O. T. #2087 "Peace is Available"

Dec. 15, 2021

Joel 3

LET IT GLOW

If there is one thing we need in our lives, homes, nation, and world, it is peace. Here are a few verses that use the word peace.

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: they shall prosper that love thee. (Ps. 122:6)

The word peace, in Hebrew is the shalluwn (shaw-lome'), means safe, well, happy, friendly, rest, all is well, be well, wholly.

The world cannot provide this kind of peace. Real peace comes from faith in God. To find peace of mind and peace with others, you must find peace with God.

The psalmist was not praying for his own peace and prosperity, but for his friends and family in Jerusalem. Isn't this intercessory prayer? How often do we neglect praying for others, but focus on our own needs and desires?

We are to pray for Jerusalem, also, for it is the Lord's beloved city and people. It is the place He chose for His King Jesus and for the worship of His name. (Ultimately, those prayers will be answered when Jesus comes back to reign as King, and it will be in Jerusalem.

[Resource: Life Application Study Bible; The Tony Evans Bible Commentary ]

In Isaiah 9:6, Jesus is the Prince of Peace. The book of John tells us about peace:

Jesus said, Peace I leave with you, My peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. (John 14:27)

This word peace, means rest, quietness, prosperity, in the Greek language.

Other verses in John includes 16:33; 20:19, 26; Luke 2:14, 29; Galatians 6:22.

A heart for God will surely be a heart filled with praise and prayer.(Wiersbe)

Dear one, do you have the peace that only God can give?

 

LET IT GROW

The beginning of Joel 3 speaks about the judgments coming upon Israel. God will deal with the nations of the world for the way they have treated His people Israel.

Joel gives three important announcements:

1. Nations prepare for judgment!
2. Nations prepare for war!
3. Nations prepare for defeat!

What the nations have done to the Jews is scattering them, selling them into slavery, plundering the land of its wealth, and taking what belonged to the Lord using it for their own gods. This happened with Babylon, Assyria, the Greeks and Romans.

A great future battle will take place in the Valley of Jehoshaphat (the Lord judges), which is  the Battle of Armageddon, according to Revelations 16:16) Nations will unite against the Lord and His Christ (Ps. 2:1-3) but we know who wins-the Lamb of God who becomes the Lion of Judah and Victor.

So believers need to pray for peace of Jerusalem and witness to them that Jesus is indeed their Messiah and Lord.

[Resource: The Wiersbe Bible Commentary]

LET IT GO

Prince of Peace, fill us with Your joy and peace.

You have everything under control.

Thank You, Jesus, for leaving Your home in heaven so it can  one day be our home. such love and sacrifice.

Glory to God in the Highest!

And peace to you, friend.

Let Us Go

O. T. #2086 "Let Us Go"

Dec. 14, 2021

Joel 2-Part 9

LET IT GLOW

I hope it has encouraged you to read through the psalms while studying this year the great prophets of Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Daniel, Hosea, and now Joel. It has been tough to hear of the coming judgments of God upon His people due to their idolatry, as well as straying away from the Word. So thank you for continuing with me.

Now take a look at Psalm 122, which David wrote. One verse I have highlighted in my Bible is:

I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the LORD. (verse 1)

David expressed his excitement as he anticipated worshiping with the people of Israel in the tabernacle in Jerusalem. (The temple was not yet built.) The Jews were to come together to worship the God of Israel during specified times of feasts. They were to give Him thanks. Jerusalem was also the city of the king, the location of the thrones of the house of David. (verse 5) The Messiah would come through this royal family, and did, might I add.

What is our attitude when it is time to go into the house of the Lord? Is it  an enjoyable time, one that stirs up eagerness to hear from the Word of God? Or is it a duty to be filled? Is there unconfessed sin or has our love for God cooled?

LET IT GROW

Before we continue into chapter 3, I realized there was something I overlooked. In this book of Joel, there is one time that he used the word Almighty (Shadday/Shaddai) used to describe their God. It is found in 1:15 when referring to the destruction to come to Israel. 

Our God is all-sufficient One, the bountiful One, the God who can do anything-El Shaddai. This descriptive word of God is used 48 times in the Old Testament, 31 times in Job, and 8 times in Revelation.

Joel believed El Shaddai could, had the ability, to stop the invasion of the locust (Assyrian army), but would only do so if Israel repented of their sins.

So many times we read of the all-powerful God doing miraculous tings that only He could do-creating the world, parting the Red Sea and Jordan River, defeating armies for Israel, delivering them from slavery in Egypt, and giving Elizabeth and Mary baby sons.

Friend, do you believer in the virgin birth of Jesus Christ? (Sorry for the bluntness.) He chose to come to earth as a baby, without sin in His life, to be the sacrifice for our sins (having lived a sinless life).

For God so loved us that He sent His only Son, to be the Messiah and Savior. Christ is the Lamb of God that takes away our sins. We cannot come to God except through Him. He is our door to heaven. This is why we worship the risen Savior.

Will you trust in Him today as your Savior? It is my prayer that you will. 

LET IT GO

Is there something we need to let go of before we bow before our Savior, the Newborn King, to be reborn spiritually?

Come let us gather together with believers to worship the Risen Savior. Come let us adore Him, Christ the Lord this season.

We give You praise and thanksgiving for loving us so much that You would leave heaven to walk among sinful men, endure temptations and pain on the cross so we can be with You in heaven, Jesus!

Fill us with Your love today and help us share Your love with others today.

 

Prophesies, Dreams, and Visions

O. T. #2085  "Prophesies, Dreams, and Visions"

Dec. 13, 2021

Joel 2-Part 8

LET IT GLOW

According to Psalm 121, God is our help, keeps and protects us, as well as preserving us. Look at verses 5-8:

The LORD is thy keeper: the LORD is thy shade upon thy right hand. The sun shall not smite thee by day, nor the moon by night. The LORD shall preserve thee from all evil: He shall preserve thy soul. The LORD shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore.

According to Wiersbe, my Father's creation is before me, His eyes are upon me, His presence is beside me, and His care is around me. While God is on His throne, He is at our side to shield us from harm.

He is our shade (defence) when we need it. So we need not fear life or death, today or tomorrow, time or eternity since we are in the loving care of our Father. His grace can turn things we think evil into good.

Casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you. (1 Peter 5:7)

Whatever you need, friend, God is there.

Who can mind the journey when the road leads home?

LET IT GROW

Before the judgment day or the Day of the Lord comes, what will happen according to verses 28-32? God will pour our His Holy Spirit. When that happens, what will occur?

• Sons and daughters will prophesy.
• Men shall dream dreams.
• Young men shall see visions. (verse 28)
• The male and female servants will have the Spirit poured out upon them. (verse 29)
• God will show great wonders in the heavens and on the earth. (verse 30)
• Before the great and terrible day of the LORD, the Great Tribulation, the sun will darken and the moon red. (verse 31)

Joel's prophecy has partially been fulfilled. After the death and resurrection of the Messiah, Jesus Christ, came the Holy Spirit. On the day of Pentecost when Peter preached (Acts 2), and God sent His Spirit upon the people. Peter quoted these verses in his sermon. Especially verse 32 of Joel 2:

And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call upon the name of the LORD shall be delivered...

There were about 3,000 souls that repented of their sins and were baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. (They were added unto the church that day.) 

When the Millennial Kingdom comes, Israel will be cleansed of their sins, believe in Jesus as the Messiah, and filled with the Holy Spirit. Mount Zion and Jerusalem will be delivered.

The church was established and has the Spirit of God to lead her. Paul quoted Joel 2:32 to the church at Rome in Romans 10:13:

For whosoever shall call upon the name of the LORD shall be saved.

Dear one, have you called upon the name of Jesus to save you from your sins and forgive you?

LET IT GO

Jesus, You can do amazing things.

May we forever be devoted to You.

Lead us in Your Kingdom work.

Please save the lost who read this.

Glory to God in the Highest!

Holy Spirit fill us so we tell of all the wondrous things You do for Your children.

Rejoice, for a Savior has come!

Restoration

O. T. #2084 "Restoration"

Dec. 10, 2021

Joel 2-Part 7

LET IT GLOW

Where do you look when you need help, strength to carry on,  even joy? Where will our help come from?

There are some wonderful words found in Psalm 121, telling us where to look:

I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the LORD, which made heaven and earth. He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: He that keepeth thee will not slumber. Behold, He that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep. (verses 1-4)

Our help comes from the LORD:

• the Maker of heaven and earth; The One who spoke everything into existence has the power to change our situation or strengthen us to make it through. (verses 1-2)
• the Protector of His people; There is no safer place to be than being where God wants you to be. (verses 3-4)
• the One who is shelter and keeper. He protects from all manner of evil-physical and spiritual. God guards his people from harm, day and night, where we are coming or going. (verses 5-8)

The Israeli pilgrims sang this song as they journeyed to Jerusalem to celebrate a Jewish feast. They needed safety on their journey through hills, dusty roads, hot days and chilly nights of camping out, even robbers that could swoop down on them.

He does not sleep nor slumber, but is available at any second, this second. The next time we see a mountain, recall this. Our help awaits.

Twice the psalmist uses these two words keepeth and preserve. The same word is found in Hebrew for both English words-shamar'. It means to hedge about; guard; protect; attend; take heed; keep; preserve; wait.

The Great I Am is available to do whatever we need as His children.

LET IT GROW

What do you need restored in your life, friend? Love, hope, joy, family, job?

Fear not, O land; be glad and rejoice: for the LORD will do great things. (verse 21)

 And I will restore to you the years that the locust hath eaten, the cankerworm, and the caterpillar, and the palmerworm, My great army which I sent among you. (verse 25)

If Israel truly repented, then disaster would not come as Joel warned. Same for us.

 God's blessings are promised only to those who sincerely and consistently follow Him. (Life Application Study Bible)

And ye shall know that I am in the midst of Israel, and that I am the LORD your God, and none else: and My people shall never be ashamed. (verse 27)

Is God in your midst this Christmas season? Do you know that there is no other god besides Jehovah God Almighty? Do you know Him personally?

For God so love the world (you and me) that He gave His only Son for us! We are the "whosover" when we believe in Jesus, that will have everlasting life.

Simply believe Jesus died on the cross to take away your sins. Admit you are a sinner in need of a Savior.

I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in Me, though he were dead, yet shall he live. (John 11:25)

For by grace are ye save through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. (Ephesians 2:8-9)

LET IT GO

Thank You Jesus for coming as a baby into this world to be our Savior!

Jesus, we bring our broken hearts and messed up lives to You.

Change us, mold us, make us into what You want us to be.

Renew our mind and hearts today.

To You be the glory, honor, and praise for ever.

Find the Light

O. T. #2083 "Find the Light"

Dec. 9, 2021

Joel 2-Part 6

LET IT GLOW

Where are you going my friend? Do you need a light for your path today? Here is where you can get it.

As we finish looking to Psalm 119 for encouragement, we see God's faithfulness in verse 90: Thy faithfulness is unto all generations: Thou hast established the earth, and it abideth.

Then in verse 89, we read of His faithful Word: For ever, O LORD, Thy Word is settled in heaven.

Verse 105 is a familiar verse about the Word of God: Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.

Finally, we find out how we can get great peace from verse 165: Great peace have they which love Thy law; and nothing shall offend them.

How precious is God's Word! It will last forever. It can illuminate and guide our path of life in this dark world. Is there great joy in loving and keeping the Word of God? Are we thanking Him for such a wonderful Word written to us, filling us with the love of God? Are we experiencing His peace as we obey His law, statutes, testimonies, and Word?

LET IT GROW

Starting in verse 15, Joel invites Israel to blow a trumpet in Zion again, to gather the people, to call for a fast and weeping before their God before judgment comes upon them.

As the priests and ministers come into the Lord's presence, they are to ask God to:

• Spare His people;
• Not let His special possession become an object of mockery;
• Not let them become a joke for unbelieving foreigners who ask, Has the God of Israel left them:"

When these things happen, what will God do?

• He will have pity on His people and guard the honor of His land; (verse 18)
• He would send grain, new wine, and olive oil to satisfy their needs; (verse 19)
• He will drive away the armies from the north, sending them into a parched wasteland. (verse 20)

After repentance would come restoration for Israel, but they would not come to God, admitting their sins of idolatry and immorality. God was waiting on His people so He could do great things for them. but they would not do so.

Is God waiting on us to come to Him in repentance? Is unbelief, unfaithfulness, or disobedience in our life? Are our prayers unanswered? We must turn to God, confessing our sins.

LET IT GO

 

The Light of the world is Jesus!

Come let us adore Him, Christ the LORD!

All glory be given to You!

Do You Have Hope?

O. T. #2082 "Do You Have Hope?"

Dec. 8, 2021

Joel 2-Part 5

LET IT GLOW

Now who could not us some hope today? Where is your hope? There is a place to find it, dear friend. Come along with me, for there is plenty of hope to go around.

In the Hebrew language, hope means to wait; to be patient; trust; tarry.

In wrapping up Psalm 119, we find the word hope appearing 4 times:

1. Remember the Word unto thy servant, upon which Thou hast caused me to hope. (verse 49)
2. My soul fainteth for Thy salvation: but I hope in Thy Word. (verse 81)
3. Thou art my hiding place and my shield: I hope in thy Word. (verse 114)
4. Uphold me according unto Thy Word, that I may live: and let me not be ashamed of my hope.

Where is our hope found? It is found in God's Word, for in God's Word we find hope.

I like how Webster's Dictionary defined hope: trust, reliance, belief in fulfillment.

Is Jesus your salvation? Is He your hope of eternal life in heaven? If so, then we rejoice in your hope. Let us live in our hope placed in Jesus. If not, today can be your day of salvation. Place your hope in the Son of God that takes away the sins of the world-Jesus Christ.

LET IT GROW

Verse 14 of Joel 1 says, Who knoweth if He will return and repent, and leave a blessing behind Him: even a meat offering and a drink offering unto the LORD your God?

If only Israel had repented of their sins, then they would not have been captives in Assyria. God is immutable, unchanging. It is man who needs to change, have a change of heart and a change of mind. He would have turned devastation into blessing if only they had.

Blessing means prosperity; present, in the Hebrew language.

Webster defines blessing as encouragement, approval.

Israel's land would not have been destroyed, but they would not turn away from idols and worship God. He would have stopped His plan of devastation in Israel , blessed them in the field and the vineyard so they could have offer a meat and drink offering unto God.

If you've held to prolonged unrighteous attitudes against God, you've made Him your enemy. But, don't run from Him because He's your only hope. (Tony Evans)

If we know of others that are there in their life, share their only hope with them-Jesus. It is by faith that He accepts us.

Paul wanted his life to be like a drink offering upon Christ. How about us?

LET IT GO

Place our hope in Jesus and He will not disappoint us, but give us more hope. Find hope in God's Word, for it is there.

Blessing and honor and praise be to the only Savior!

We believe and trust in You only!

Where to Find Hope and Delight

O. T. #2081 "Where to Find Hope and Delight"

DEC. 7, 2021

Joel 2-Part 4

LET IT GLOW

Are you weighed down by all there is on your to-do list this month? Join me as we discover what can lighten this list.

Continuing in Psalm 119, we read of several words that the psalmist uses for the Scriptures. Look at how many times they are used within these 176 verses:

• Word-38times
• testimonies-11 xs
• law-25 xs
• precepts-21 xs
• statutes-22 xs
• commandments 22 xs
• judgment-4xs

David sincerely and genuinely sought the blessings of God through obeying His Word. 

Word means promise.

In verse 11, he says, Thy Word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against Thee.

About 143 times those words from the list were used. What are we to do with them?

• Meditate on them;(verse 15, 78)
• Respect them; (verse 15)
• Delight in them; (verse 16, 77)
• Not forget them; (verse 16)
• Learn them; (verse 71)
• Be comforted by them; (verse 52
• Get understanding from them; (verse 104)
• Put our hope in them; (verse 114, 147)
• Respect them; (verse 117)
• Love them exceedingly; (verse 167)
• Get deliverance; (verse 170)
• Praise God for them.(verse 175)

God's Word was so very important to David, right? And so it should be to us. It is a road map to our God, since it is Truth.

 

LET IT GROW

What do we find when we rent our heart, not our garments, and turn unto the LORD our God? Verse 13b tells us we find He is gracious, merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness. (Israel would have had God not sending the plague of Assyria.)

God loves His people so much that He will cause them to face their sin and bring them to the place of repentance, confession, and restoration. (Falwell)

LET IT GO

Thank You Father for Your grace and mercy, slow anger, and great kindness. Especially grateful am I that my sister in law does not have cancer!

Help us to love Your Word and You more each day.

May our hope and delight be in Your Word.

 

How Do We Walk, Keep, and Seek?

O. T. #2080 "How Do We Walk, Keep, and Seek?"

Dec. 6, 2021

Joel 2-Part 3

LET IT GLOW

This chapter 119 is the longest psalm and chapter. It was probably was written by David. Immediately he wrote how we can be happy (blessed) and joyful. Who couldn't use some today? It instructs us how to stay pure and grow in faith.

Blessed are the undefiled in the way, who walk in the law of the LORD. Blessed are they that keep His testimonies, and that seek Him with the whole heart. They also do no iniquity: they walk in His ways. Thou hast commanded us to keep Thy precepts diligently. (verses 1-4)

Are we joyfully following the instructions of the LORD? Are we being joyful, especially this month in which we celebrate our Savior's birth? Are we people of integrity?  As we obey His laws are we joyful? do we search the Savior with all of our hearts?

I really had not thought about it this way before. If we are living uprightly, what have we to fear? Is our way of righteousness, pointing others to Jesus?

So the verbs here are walk, keep, and seek. So we are challenged today to do these things-live and walk uprightly, doing the right thing, keep God's Word so others can see it is the Truth, and seek the Lord with a whole heart so we can do His will, His way. Wow!

 

LET IT GROW

What did the Lord say in verses 12 and 13?

• Turn to Him with all our heart, with a fast, with weeping, and mourning. After repentance comes restoration and healing.
• Rend your heart and not garments. Grieve over your sinful ways, repenting. A broken heart God will not despise nor turn away from.
• Turn to the LORD your God. Idols will not help Israel when the Day of the LORD comes, for they have no power.

Do we just say a prayer of repetitive words going through the motions? Or is our heart sincere?

The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit, a broken and a contrite heart-these, O God, You will not despise. (Ps. 51:17 NKJV)

When we do as God says, we will experience His grace and mercy, slow anger, and great kindness. His unfailing love is waiting for us. He is eager to relent and not punish.

As we read of the character of God, we find His abounding love. We can depend on our God, for He never changes. When sinners repent and turn to Him, God is faithful to forgive us, not judge us.

LET IT GO

To You alone have we sinned, O God.

We ask Your forgiveness through Jesus.

Change our hearts and lives.

Keep us seeking You and walking after Your Word in our lives.

Fill us with joy today.

The King of kings has come!

The Messiah lives today!

Give honor and praise to Jesus Christ, the Son of God!

 

Hosanna in the Highest

O. T. #2079   "Hosanna in The Highest"

Dec. 3, 2021

Joel 2-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

Still looking into Psalm 118 for encouragement:

Blessed be He that cometh in the name of the LORD: we have blessed you out of (from)the house of the LORD. (verse 26)

In Matthew 21:9, we read the same words:

And the multitudes that went before, and that followed, cried, saying, Hosanna to the Son of David. Blessed is He that cometh in the name of the LORD; Hosanna in the Highest.

Jesus was entering Jerusalem riding on a donkey as some people recognized Him as the Messiah and King of the Jews. Look at this.

Hosanna, in the Greek language, means oh save! ; an exclamation of adoration.

Now that is something to get excited about, folks! Jesus Christ came to be our Savior. Is He your Savior? If not, He is waiting to be, for His work is complete for salvation. Simply believe in Him, ask Jesus to come into your heart, and ask forgiveness of your sins. Such love Jesus showed for you and me!

However, the religious leaders of Israel rejected Him and had Jesus put to death. Nevertheless, God vindicated Him and raised Jesus from the dead to be the Lord of all. Those with eyes of faith recognize this as wondrous. (verse 23)

Isn't it fantastic how God's plans came together! Our Savior is living!

 

LET IT GROW

Read through verses 3-11 in chapter 2.

Before the plague of locusts came, the earth looked like the Garden of Eden. The beautiful land had green and luxurious foliage. What was coming to change that is:

• Fire and flames will sweep over the land as the Assyrian army comes to the mountains; (verse 3)
• Fear will be on the faces of the people as anxiety and terror pains the inhabitants; (verse 6)
• Falling upon the sword, men will try to commit suicide and seek death, but will not be able to do so. (verse 8)

Such a catastrophic scene is pictured in verses 9-10, which is similar to Revelation 9 during the Great Tribulation, the Day of the Lord. Joel prepared the way for John's writings.

Under God's control, the Assyrian army marched upon Israel since they would not pray and repent and worship God alone.

Who can abide it? Except those days should be shortened, there should no flesh be saved. (Matt. 24:22)

J.V. McGee tells us the answer:

In Rev. 7, God will shut down the forces of nature, withholding the winds from blowing (God's judgment upon earth) until the two great companies of the redeemed are sealed and made secure. If God's people are going to make it through the terrible time of tribulation, they will have to be sealed.

Matthew Henry said: None can escape the arrests of God's wrath, can make head against the force of it, or hear up under the weight of it. (1 Samuel 6:20; Ps. 75:7)

What a horrific time! But our Hosanna has come-Jesus Christ the Savior and Messiah! He alone is hope during that time. He alone is our hope during this time in which we live.

LET IT GO

Jesus, You alone are The Savior,  The Messiah, The Way, The Truth, The Life.

Hosanna to God in the Highest!

Please save all who read this.

Trumpets

O. T. #2078  "Trumpets"

Dec. 2, 2021

Joel 2

LET IT GLOW

The LORD is my strength and song, and is become my salvation. (Psalm 118:14)

The LORD hath chastened me sore: but He hath not given me over unto death. (verse 18)

The stone which the builders refused is become the head stone of the corner. This is the LORD's doing; it is marvelous in our eyes. (verses 22-23)

Although Jesus was rejected by His people the Jews, He is now the "cornerstone", the most important part of the church. (Acts 4:11) The cornerstone is the foundation stone, holding the structure together. (Life Application Study Bible)

Is Jesus your strength, song, salvation, and cornerstone for your life?

This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it. (verse 24)

In spite of our mood, situation, sorrow, guilt, can we rejoice in Jesus? God has given us this day to live and to serve Him, so that is reason enough to rejoice!

Do we recognize Jesus as the Messiah? Is He our living hope?

Can you hear it?

 

LET IT GROW

Look at verses 1 and 2 of chapter 2, Blow ye the trumpet in Zion, and sound an alarm in My holy mountain: let all the inhabitants of the land tremble: for the day of the LORD cometh, for it is nigh at hand.

A day of darkness and of gloominess, a day of clouds and of thick darkness, as the morning spread upon the mountains: a great people and a strong: there hath not been ever the like, neither shall be any more after it, even to the years of many generations.

Judah must hear and heed the prophet's instructions:

• Blow the trumpet and sound the alarm in Jerusalem, which was used to call the congregation together for meetings, to usher in the beginning month, to note solemn days and festive occasions, warn them of war declared, as well as call a fast. Also, it was used to alert people to the seriousness of the crises.

Their weapons against the invading enemy would be repentance and prayer; the Lord would fight for them. However they would not do so, therefore, God would be in charge of this invasion, fulfilling His word.

• All human hope was gone, for the day of darkness and gloom, thick clouds, and deep blackness was coming, the terrible day of judgment.
• Nothing like it has been seen before or will ever be seen again.(There has never been anything like this, and never will be again.)
• The Assyrian army was coming to invade Israel, to ravage the land of Israel, the Northern Tribes.

Friend, are you ready for the trumpet of the Lord Jesus to be sound as He comes back to take His people home?

Have you made preparation? If the trumpet were to sound today, where would you spend eternity? Right now, will you ask Jesus to forgive your sins and be your Savior? He is only a prayer away.

LET IT GO

Jesus, we rejoice in this day You have made and allowed us to live in.

Thank You for Your salvation.

Nothing is impossible for You, Jesus.

Will you do miraculous things today?

Glory to God in the Highest!

The Day of The Lord

O. T. #2077  "The Day of The Lord"

Dec. 1, 2021

Joel 1-Part 5

LET IT GLOW

Dear one, are you fearful, in distress, trusting in people? Here is help.

In looking to Psalm 118 for encouragement, we read:

Let them now that fear the LORD say, that His mercy endureth for ever. (verse 4)

I called upon the LORD in distress: the LORD answered me, and set me in a large place. (verse 5)

The LORD is on my side; I will not fear: what can man do unto me? (verse 6)

It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man. (verse 8)

The Lord is merciful, so call upon Him and He will answer. He is on our side, so do not fear. Are we putting our trust in God or people?

God's love is unchanging in the midst of changing situations. This give us security.  If you can put your trust in planes, trains, cars, or buses to get you to your destination, are you willing to trust God to guide you here on earth and to your eternal destination? (Life Application Study Bible)

LET IT GROW

Alas for the day! for the day of the LORD is at hand, and as a destruction from the Almighty shall it come. (verse 15)

I like how J. Vernon McGee summarized this:

1. There is man's day, the day in which we are living now;
2. the Day of the Lord Jesus Christ, when He will take the church out of this world;
3. the Day of the Lord beginning with the Great Tribulation period.

As we live in man's day, man is the one who makes the judgments in courts, and ultimately to the Supreme Court. But we do not appeal to God, for we have forgotten Him altogether. Some use His name to swear by and to blaspheme. We see humanism abounding.

The phrase Day of the Lord appears 75 times in the entire Bible, with 5 times in the book of Joel. The prophets Isaiah, Ezekiel, Joel, Amos, Obediah, Zephaniah, and Malachi foretell its coming as a period of wrath and judgment uniquely belonging to the Lord. It will unveil the character of Jesus-might, power, and holiness.

Another day of coming is when the Day of the Lord Jesus Christ happens when He returns to rapture out His church. (1 Cor. 1:7-8; Phil. 1:6; 2 Thess. 2:2)

Then the Day of the Lord begins with night, with darkness in the Great Tribulation period. The destruction of the hand of Omnipotent God is coming. In the rest of the chapter, we read the results-man, animals, and plant kingdoms will be effected.

In verse 19, the only course of action in the light of such devastation is prayer to God. He is the only recourse. Everything else is gone. Man, beast, and nature join together in seeking God's favor for relief. (Liberty Bible Commentary)

LET IT GO

Jesus, You are our only hope in this world and eternity.

Help us share His love, forgiveness, mercy, and grace with others.

How marvelous You are, Almighty God!

We trust in You and surrender to Your will.

 

Merciful Kindness

O. T. #2076  "Merciful Kindness"

Nov. 30, 2021

Joel 1-Part 4

LET IT GLOW

Psalm 117:1-2 says, O praise the LORD, all ye nations, praise Him, all ye people. For His merciful kindness is great toward us: and the truth of the LORD endureth for ever. Praise ye the LORD.

This is the shortest of the psalms by an unknown writer. He is inviting people everywhere to turn to the Lord and join believers in praising Him.

Wiersbe gives us 4 privileges that belong to God's people:

1. Worshipping God-The first praise means hallelujah-praise the Lord; the second praise means to boast, to extol and laud. It refers to us tell God how great He is, and we brag on Him to others.
2. Sharing the Gospel-To the nations (Gentiles) and peoples (nationalities in the world). Israel failed at bringing blessings to all the earth and giving true knowledge of God, Scriptures, and Savior.
3. Depending on God's great love-We are saved by grace, not by our good works. (Eph. 2:8-9) While we deserved death and darkness, God showed His merciful lovingkindness through Jesus Christ.
4. Resting on Divine assurance-Truth or faithfulness refers to stability, certainty, trustworthiness, faithful, sure. The character of God cannot change and His promises will not change. Our assurance is in the Word of God and the God of the Word. 

*I am sorry this has taken so long to post. My electricity went off and I was not able to get back on this site. Thank the Lord it was not erased. 

 

LET IT GROW

Look at verses 13-15 of the first chapter of Joel. The Word of the Lord through the prophet Joel is addressing the priests in Israel. No one was able to bring proper sacrifices to the temple because there were no meal, wine, or animals available. The people and the Temple were in need. Nice there was such devastation, the only thing man could do was to repent and mourn.

The priests and ministers were to:

• exhort themselves with sackcloth as a sign of mourning, even those attending the altar at night;
• Lament means to bewail (weep, mourn);
• Sanctify means keep holy, purify to a fast;
• Gather the elders and inhabitants of the land into the Lord's house;
• Cry refers to assemble, call (together), cause to be proclaimed unto the Lord.

Those are the instructions during the devastation of the locust plague, before the armies of world's empires attacked.

The main things was for the people to repent of their sinful idolatry and turn back to God.

Will we sanctify, lament, and cry before the Lord our God? His mercy endureth forever.

 

LET IT GO

Jesus, the lives of Patty and R. E. are in your hands, as well as us.

Your mercy has no end. Great is Your faithfulness.

Please show mercy unto them as they deal with cancer that wants to destroy their life.

We realize we are but sinners in need of a Savior today. You alone are our hope, Jesus. We give thanks unto the Lord, for Your mercy endureth to all generations.

In Your hands we leave our sister and brother in Christ.

Show Yourself mighty in each situation, according to Your will.

To You be the glory for ever and ever. Amen

Rejoice, Return, Rapture

O. T. #2075 "Rejoice, Return, Rapture"

Nov. 29, 2021

Joel 1-Part 3

LET IT GLOW

Folks, Psalm 116 has a lot of good things to say to us believers in Jesus.

Gracious is the LORD, and righteous; yea, our God is merciful. The LORD preserveth the simple; I was brought low, and He helped me. (verses 5-6)

I will walk before the LORD in the land of the living. (verse 9)

Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of His saints. (verse 15)

I will offer to Thee the sacrifice of thanksgiving, and will call upon the name of the LORD. I will pay my vows unto the LORD now in the presence of all His people. (verses 17-18)

God is always available so His children can reach Him immediately with our prayers and cry out for help. He bends down and listens to our voice. He answers the prayers of His children so He can give us His best. We are so precious to Him that God even chooses carefully the time when He calls us into His presence through death. God sees and values each life. So much that He sent His only Son, Jesus, to die in our place in order for our sins to be forgiven. What a sacrifice! Have you accepted it yet?

Do we offer the sacrifice of thanksgiving unto the LORD?

LET IT GROW

Let's remember that Joel probably prophesied during the reign of King Joash in Judah (835-796 BC). It would have been about 210 years before Babylon conquered Judah.

The people were careless and concerned only with their sinful pleasures instead of pleasing God and only worshiping Him. Sin's shackles had them bound.

What was going to happen in the land of Judah?

• The locusts (conquering armies) would devour the grapes so the drunkards could have no wine. (verse 5)
• A great lion/nation was coming as a lion to lay waste the fig trees.(verses 6-7)
• There would be no meat and drink offerings for the priests to give the LORD. (verse 9)
• Cornfields would be a wasteland, thus no oil available. (verse 10)
• No wheat or barley would be harvested. (verse 11)
• The pomegranate, apple, and palm trees will wither. (verse 12a)

The entire population is affected.

Joy is withered away from the sons of men. (verse 12b)

Is our joy withered? Are we so bogged down with troubles and despair that we just go through the motions of each day?

Our Creator will return to earth and set free those in sin's shackles, and then the wilderness and the solitary place shall be glad... and the desert shall rejoice, and blossom like the rose. (Isaiah 35:1)

 

LET IT GO

Rejoice, for the Day of the Lord is coming!

Look up, for our Redemption draweth nigh!

One day Jesus will return and rapture us into heaven.

While we wait, let us rejoice, give thanks, and stay faithful to our King Jesus.