Nov. 21, 2014
Friends,
I am sorry for not writing our Bible study yesterday and today. I have been sick and went to the doctor. I am taking medication to resolve the inflammation in my small intestine and eyes. Rest is very much needed because to the difficulty to sleep with the plain. I know God is in control and rest in Him.
I will work on Monday's lesson this weekend, so be sure and come back then.
Meanwhile, have a blessed weekend ya'll.
Be sure to thank God for all he has done, His grace and mercy.
Please pray for the Dugger family of 19 Kinds and Counting on TLC. They are being attacked by homosexuals trying to get their show off the air. They are a Christian family upholding God's principles and Word to the world located in my area. Pray for their protection and encouragement.
See you Monday.
In His Service,
Linda
Friday, November 21, 2014
Wednesday, November 19, 2014
He Captured My Heart
O. T. #411 "He Captured My Heart"
November 19, 2014
Deuteronomy 21-part 2
If you notice among the captives a beautiful woman and are attracted to her, you may take her as your wife. Deuteronomy 21:9 NIV
LET IT GLOW
I still see it as plain as day, during our senior year in high school, when Roger sat in the student center, watching the ping-pong games at lunch. When his presence caught my eye, I began watching this new guy at school instead of the games. Eventually, after dating and spending time with him, as well as seeking the Lord's will, he captured my heart. His physical appearance was ordinary, but he was different from the rest of the guys I knew. In seven days, we will celebrate our 42nd anniversary. I can truthfully say, he still captures my heart.
Did you know God gave Israel instructions on this topic?
Moses is continuing to give instructions to Israel concerning their new societal order in regards to human relationships. It is this second generation of the Israelites who are going to form a new nation. They are God's chosen children. He desires them to live the right way, to be an example before the heathen nations.
Moses touches on an unusual situation-What does a man do with a beautiful captured woman that has captured his heart?
Such a woman would be from a non-Canaanite city that Israel had captured (20:4) since all the Canaanites were to be killed (20:16).
According to ancient war customs, a female captive became the servant of the victors, a prisoner of war. If this beautiful woman's conqueror desired marriage with her, there were some procedures that he must follow:
We believing women are beautiful daughters of the King-King Jesus. We have captivated His heart, not by any thing we are or have done, but by His grace and love.
Ephesians 1:5 says, Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will.
Is our inner countenance showing us to be a beautiful spiritual woman? Is our loving, humble spirit what draws attention to us, others to us, or is it a shallow outward beauty? Are we striving to be a Proverbs 31 woman? How will we honor our Savior today? Has Jesus captured your heart?
LET IT GROW
What were the Israelites to do when their son was stubborn and rebellious? When he would not obey his parents' chastening?
If a man would not obey his parents, he would not obey God, nor was he likely to obey civil authority. It would be punishing crime in its embryonic form. (Falwell)
Plus, rebellion could spread throughout the town. Stoning put fear into people so they would put away evil ways. Do we want our sins on display?
The last two verses in this chapter speaks about men being hung on a tree until dead for certain crimes. After his execution, the man's body was to remain on the tree as a public display of the consequences of disobedience. It was to be removed and buried before sunset.
A man hanged was accursed of God, as verse 23 tells us.
Galatians 3:13-14 NIV says, Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us, for it is written: "Cursed is everyone who is hung on a tree." He redeemed us in order that the blessing given to Abraham might come to the Gentiles through Christ Jesus, so that by faith we might receive the promise of the Spirit.
Thank You Jesus for redeeming us Gentiles and making us Your child. Such mercy!
LET IT GO
Take any stubbornness and rebellion to Jesus for removal.
Allow Jesus to make me into a beautiful spiritual woman.
Thank Jesus for loving us Gentiles and redeeming us.
Share the love of Jesus with someone today.
November 19, 2014
Deuteronomy 21-part 2
If you notice among the captives a beautiful woman and are attracted to her, you may take her as your wife. Deuteronomy 21:9 NIV
LET IT GLOW
I still see it as plain as day, during our senior year in high school, when Roger sat in the student center, watching the ping-pong games at lunch. When his presence caught my eye, I began watching this new guy at school instead of the games. Eventually, after dating and spending time with him, as well as seeking the Lord's will, he captured my heart. His physical appearance was ordinary, but he was different from the rest of the guys I knew. In seven days, we will celebrate our 42nd anniversary. I can truthfully say, he still captures my heart.
Did you know God gave Israel instructions on this topic?
Moses is continuing to give instructions to Israel concerning their new societal order in regards to human relationships. It is this second generation of the Israelites who are going to form a new nation. They are God's chosen children. He desires them to live the right way, to be an example before the heathen nations.
Moses touches on an unusual situation-What does a man do with a beautiful captured woman that has captured his heart?
Such a woman would be from a non-Canaanite city that Israel had captured (20:4) since all the Canaanites were to be killed (20:16).
According to ancient war customs, a female captive became the servant of the victors, a prisoner of war. If this beautiful woman's conqueror desired marriage with her, there were some procedures that he must follow:
- The man was instructed to bring the woman into the Israeli man's house, giving her the rights of a daughter of Israel (Ex. 21:7).
- One month was to elapse before they married. It was a sign of cleansing (Lev. 14:8; Num. 8:7).
- This time allowed her to sorrow for the loss of her parents as she left home to marry a stranger.
- The typical signs of Jewish grief included: shaving the head, trimming the nails (signs of purification), removing her lovely, captive clothes (symbolic of passing out of the state of slavery).
- This action gave her opportunity to forget her natural affection for her people and for her father's house.
- However, if the Israelite husband found no delight in her, and decided divorce was appropriate, he could let her go; but he could not sell her as a slave. She would be set free completely.
We believing women are beautiful daughters of the King-King Jesus. We have captivated His heart, not by any thing we are or have done, but by His grace and love.
Ephesians 1:5 says, Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will.
Is our inner countenance showing us to be a beautiful spiritual woman? Is our loving, humble spirit what draws attention to us, others to us, or is it a shallow outward beauty? Are we striving to be a Proverbs 31 woman? How will we honor our Savior today? Has Jesus captured your heart?
LET IT GROW
What were the Israelites to do when their son was stubborn and rebellious? When he would not obey his parents' chastening?
- According to the fifth commandment (Ex. 20:120, the son was to be stoned to death by the men of the town, not the parents.
- The parents were to take this rebellious son to the elders at the gate of their town.(verse 19)
- They charge the son with being a glutton and a drunkard. (verse 20) It showed he was unmanageable.
If a man would not obey his parents, he would not obey God, nor was he likely to obey civil authority. It would be punishing crime in its embryonic form. (Falwell)
Plus, rebellion could spread throughout the town. Stoning put fear into people so they would put away evil ways. Do we want our sins on display?
The last two verses in this chapter speaks about men being hung on a tree until dead for certain crimes. After his execution, the man's body was to remain on the tree as a public display of the consequences of disobedience. It was to be removed and buried before sunset.
A man hanged was accursed of God, as verse 23 tells us.
Galatians 3:13-14 NIV says, Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us, for it is written: "Cursed is everyone who is hung on a tree." He redeemed us in order that the blessing given to Abraham might come to the Gentiles through Christ Jesus, so that by faith we might receive the promise of the Spirit.
Thank You Jesus for redeeming us Gentiles and making us Your child. Such mercy!
LET IT GO
Take any stubbornness and rebellion to Jesus for removal.
Allow Jesus to make me into a beautiful spiritual woman.
Thank Jesus for loving us Gentiles and redeeming us.
Share the love of Jesus with someone today.
Monday, November 17, 2014
An Unsolved Murder
O. T. #410 "An Unsolved Murder"
November 18, 2014
Deuteronomy 21-Part 1
So you will purge from yourselves the guilt of shedding innocent blood, since you have done what is right in the eyes of the LORD. Deuteronomy 21:9
LET IT GLOW
I have been watching the reruns of the old detective television show Matlock. They have the same scenario of a murder being committed, an innocent person accused of the murder, and this lawyer solves the situation of who did it. Did you know Israel was given instructions about the way to handle an unsolved murder? Read on.
What could happen in the land of Israel to make it polluted?
The answer is found in Numbers 36:33-34:33-34, where the LORD says, Bloodshed pollutes the land and atonement cannot be made for the land on which blood has been shed, except by the blood of the one who shed it. Do not defile the land where you live and where I dwell, for I, the LORD, dwell among the Israelites.
In the event that the guilty party of an unsolved homicide was unknown, justice could not adequately be serve. However, the people were still held responsible to deal with the crime. The elders were to break the neck of a heifer, indicating that the crime deserved to be punished. They washed their hands over the heifer, whose blood ran into a stream and not on the land. The priests were involved in the ceremony, but not performing the sprinkling of blood.
Verse 8 tells us that the elders of the city, after making a sacrifice of a heifer's blood, for an unsolved homicide occurring there, were to say: Our hands have not shed this blood, neither have our eyes seen it. Be merciful, O LORD, unto thy people Israel, whom thou hast redeemed, and lay not innocent blood unto my people of Israel's charge. and the blood shall be forgiven them.
In Hebrew language, the word redeemed means ransom; to release; preserve; rescue.
When the Levites and elders of the city of the location of the unsolved murder followed the instructions for the atonement of an unsolved murder, the Lord assures Israel in verse 9:
So you will purge from yourselves the guilt of shedding innocent blood, since you have done what is right in the eyes of the LORD.
When Israel followed God's instructions, He honored His Word by taking away their guilt of bloodshed through murder. It required a blood sacrifice, a substitutionary atonement, which was looking forward to the work of Jesus on the cross for sinners.
[Resources: Guzik's Bible Commentary, Liberty Bible Commentary, The MacArthur Bible Commentary]
Have we killed another person? I'm not referring to physically taking their life, but their witness. I am guilty today for saying something bad about another. I asked forgiveness of my Lord for that sin. I should have had better control of my tongue.
At the trial of Jesus, found in Matthew 27:24, Pilate saw that he was getting nowhere and an uproar of the crowd started. What did he do? Pilate took water and washed his hands in front of the crowd. It was an empty gesture. He said, I am innocent of this man's blood. It is your responsibility.
How did the crowd respond? Let his blood be on us and on our children!
And so it is-the Jews killed their own Messiah, Jesus Christ, the Son of the Living God.
Jesus gave His innocent blood to be shed as a sacrifice for sinners like you and me. Such love!
What am I willing to sacrifice for others to find the love of God?
LET IT GO
Do what is right in the eyes of the Lord.
Give to others so they experience the love of God.
Watch my mouth and control what comes out of it glorifies God.
November 18, 2014
Deuteronomy 21-Part 1
So you will purge from yourselves the guilt of shedding innocent blood, since you have done what is right in the eyes of the LORD. Deuteronomy 21:9
LET IT GLOW
I have been watching the reruns of the old detective television show Matlock. They have the same scenario of a murder being committed, an innocent person accused of the murder, and this lawyer solves the situation of who did it. Did you know Israel was given instructions about the way to handle an unsolved murder? Read on.
What could happen in the land of Israel to make it polluted?
The answer is found in Numbers 36:33-34:33-34, where the LORD says, Bloodshed pollutes the land and atonement cannot be made for the land on which blood has been shed, except by the blood of the one who shed it. Do not defile the land where you live and where I dwell, for I, the LORD, dwell among the Israelites.
In the event that the guilty party of an unsolved homicide was unknown, justice could not adequately be serve. However, the people were still held responsible to deal with the crime. The elders were to break the neck of a heifer, indicating that the crime deserved to be punished. They washed their hands over the heifer, whose blood ran into a stream and not on the land. The priests were involved in the ceremony, but not performing the sprinkling of blood.
Verse 8 tells us that the elders of the city, after making a sacrifice of a heifer's blood, for an unsolved homicide occurring there, were to say: Our hands have not shed this blood, neither have our eyes seen it. Be merciful, O LORD, unto thy people Israel, whom thou hast redeemed, and lay not innocent blood unto my people of Israel's charge. and the blood shall be forgiven them.
In Hebrew language, the word redeemed means ransom; to release; preserve; rescue.
When the Levites and elders of the city of the location of the unsolved murder followed the instructions for the atonement of an unsolved murder, the Lord assures Israel in verse 9:
So you will purge from yourselves the guilt of shedding innocent blood, since you have done what is right in the eyes of the LORD.
When Israel followed God's instructions, He honored His Word by taking away their guilt of bloodshed through murder. It required a blood sacrifice, a substitutionary atonement, which was looking forward to the work of Jesus on the cross for sinners.
[Resources: Guzik's Bible Commentary, Liberty Bible Commentary, The MacArthur Bible Commentary]
Have we killed another person? I'm not referring to physically taking their life, but their witness. I am guilty today for saying something bad about another. I asked forgiveness of my Lord for that sin. I should have had better control of my tongue.
At the trial of Jesus, found in Matthew 27:24, Pilate saw that he was getting nowhere and an uproar of the crowd started. What did he do? Pilate took water and washed his hands in front of the crowd. It was an empty gesture. He said, I am innocent of this man's blood. It is your responsibility.
How did the crowd respond? Let his blood be on us and on our children!
And so it is-the Jews killed their own Messiah, Jesus Christ, the Son of the Living God.
Jesus gave His innocent blood to be shed as a sacrifice for sinners like you and me. Such love!
What am I willing to sacrifice for others to find the love of God?
LET IT GO
Do what is right in the eyes of the Lord.
Give to others so they experience the love of God.
Watch my mouth and control what comes out of it glorifies God.
Trees
O. T. #409 "Trees"
November 17, 2014
Deuteronomy 20-Part 2
When you lay siege to a city for a long time, fighting against it to capture it, do not destroy its trees by putting an ax to the, because you can eat their fruit. do not cut them down. Deuteronomy 20:19a
LET IT GLOW
Trees. I take them for granted. I anticipate their green leaves in the early spring, after their baroness in the winter. Oh, the juicy apples, peaches, cherries, and pears to eat fresh. (Nothing like the variety of luscious fruits in the tropical countries.) Also, I enjoy the pecans and walnuts they produce in the fall just in time for holiday baking. Such beauty to see in our area of the array of colored leaves before they fall off. Just this morning I watched two huge red headed woodpeckers catch insects in our tree in the front yard. We are so blessed.
Did you know God gave Israel specific instructions dealing with trees? Continue to find out about it.
Have you ever thought about what the earth was like back in the Old Testament times? We would all agree that the Lord created trees. Did you know there were trees in the middle east area back then? Yes, God blessed the people with regular trees and fruit trees. I know this because He gave instructions to Israel involving the trees of the field in verses 19-20.
When besieging a city, armies in the ancient world would cut down the trees to build ramps and weapons, as well as facilities for the long siege. However, Israel was not to use fruit trees in the siege of a city so they could later enjoy the fruit of the land God had given to them (7:12,13) (MacArthur)
Do we even think about the value of trees? They provide shade in the hot summer, fuel in the cold winter, fruit and nuts for food, structure for buildings and furniture, beauty in the fall season, and decorating in the Christmas season. Also, trees provide homes and food for birds and squirrels. As I learned in school, the leaves take in the carbon dioxide that we give off, then give off oxygen that we breathe in, so there is a balance in our air and meeting our need. How wise is our God!
Now, I don't advocate going to extremes about loving trees, never cutting them down, nor making idols out of them. All of God's creation has its purpose. We are to worship the Creator, not the creation.
Are we thankful for the little things God provides for us? What kind of world would it be without them?
LET IT GROW
In this chapter, we read about the humanitarian principles which applied to time of war under the Mosaic law. We have discussed the duties of the priests encouraging the soldiers before hand, the officers and soldiers who were exempted from service.
What about the cities they were going to conquer in Canaan?
The cities in Canaan were not even offered peace, but were to be destroyed. God was protecting His children from the social, moral, and spiritual decay into idolatry. Did Israel obey these instructions for their battles? We will see in time.
Do we follow God's instructions from His Word? Do we trust Him to know what is best for us? Are we will to make sacrifices to be the example of being set apart from the world?
LET IT GO
Thank God for all His provisions. Appreciate the beauty of His creation.
Share His blessings with others.
Study His Word and follow His instructions for my life.
Joyfully sacrifice when it is required.
November 17, 2014
Deuteronomy 20-Part 2
When you lay siege to a city for a long time, fighting against it to capture it, do not destroy its trees by putting an ax to the, because you can eat their fruit. do not cut them down. Deuteronomy 20:19a
LET IT GLOW
Trees. I take them for granted. I anticipate their green leaves in the early spring, after their baroness in the winter. Oh, the juicy apples, peaches, cherries, and pears to eat fresh. (Nothing like the variety of luscious fruits in the tropical countries.) Also, I enjoy the pecans and walnuts they produce in the fall just in time for holiday baking. Such beauty to see in our area of the array of colored leaves before they fall off. Just this morning I watched two huge red headed woodpeckers catch insects in our tree in the front yard. We are so blessed.
Did you know God gave Israel specific instructions dealing with trees? Continue to find out about it.
Have you ever thought about what the earth was like back in the Old Testament times? We would all agree that the Lord created trees. Did you know there were trees in the middle east area back then? Yes, God blessed the people with regular trees and fruit trees. I know this because He gave instructions to Israel involving the trees of the field in verses 19-20.
When besieging a city, armies in the ancient world would cut down the trees to build ramps and weapons, as well as facilities for the long siege. However, Israel was not to use fruit trees in the siege of a city so they could later enjoy the fruit of the land God had given to them (7:12,13) (MacArthur)
Do we even think about the value of trees? They provide shade in the hot summer, fuel in the cold winter, fruit and nuts for food, structure for buildings and furniture, beauty in the fall season, and decorating in the Christmas season. Also, trees provide homes and food for birds and squirrels. As I learned in school, the leaves take in the carbon dioxide that we give off, then give off oxygen that we breathe in, so there is a balance in our air and meeting our need. How wise is our God!
Now, I don't advocate going to extremes about loving trees, never cutting them down, nor making idols out of them. All of God's creation has its purpose. We are to worship the Creator, not the creation.
Are we thankful for the little things God provides for us? What kind of world would it be without them?
LET IT GROW
In this chapter, we read about the humanitarian principles which applied to time of war under the Mosaic law. We have discussed the duties of the priests encouraging the soldiers before hand, the officers and soldiers who were exempted from service.
What about the cities they were going to conquer in Canaan?
- First, Israel was to offer the city a chance to surrender peacefully before they attacked. Included in this agreement was their tribute collected for Israel and their subservience to the nation of Israel. The surrendered city would open the gates to signify their decision. (verses 10-13)
- A city not surrendered was to be completely destroyed with the sword, including all men of war.
- The women, children, and cattle were to be saved as spoil for Israel to have. These were to have lived in cities very far off. (verse 15)
- Israel was not allowed to keep those if their cities were in the Promised Land, which God directed for six nations, to be destroyed. Since idolatry was the sins of these nations, this prevented such a constant temptation for Israel.
The cities in Canaan were not even offered peace, but were to be destroyed. God was protecting His children from the social, moral, and spiritual decay into idolatry. Did Israel obey these instructions for their battles? We will see in time.
Do we follow God's instructions from His Word? Do we trust Him to know what is best for us? Are we will to make sacrifices to be the example of being set apart from the world?
LET IT GO
Thank God for all His provisions. Appreciate the beauty of His creation.
Share His blessings with others.
Study His Word and follow His instructions for my life.
Joyfully sacrifice when it is required.
Friday, November 14, 2014
Preparing for Battles
O. T. #408 "Preparing for Battles"
November 14, 2014
Deuteronomy 20
For the LORD your God is he that goeth with you, to fight for you against your enemies, to save you. Deuteronomy 20:4
LET IT GLOW
Battles will come, that is for certain. It may come at work, at home, in the car, in the store. How do we get ready for a spiritual battle today? Is God with us, fighting for us? Are we prepared properly? I find that I fail when I fail to prepare. I can't live this Christian life on my own, so I must yield to Jesus before going out into the world to do battle. Even before I answer the phone early in the morning, I must have the Spirit leading me. Israel was told how to prepare for their battles so they could conquer their Promised Land. Will you read on with me?
This second generation of Israelites had seen and experienced some battles before they came to camp at the edge of the Jordan River.
These victories included:
What were Moses' encouraging instructions?
The role of the priests was to encourage the soldiers by God's promise, presence, and power to be strong in faith. A lack of trust in God's ability to fight for them would affect the strength of their will so that they would become fainthearted. Victory was linked to their faith in God. (MacArthur)
Later one, David challenged the Philistine champion, only nine foot and nine inches tall, giant Goliath as he cursed David by his gods. Mockery and fierceness of one giant did not shake David's confidence and faith in His God. We read how that turned out in 1 Samuel 17, with David killing the giant, armed with only 5 smooth stones and a sling shot.
Do we have that kind of faith as we fight spiritual battles in our life? Who do we trust in when we have financial problems, marital issues, shaky job situations, children going astray? Will we cower down or ask God for Him to give the victory?
LET IT GROW
The officers' duties included keeping geological tables, appointing men to battle, and releasing others from battle.
There were four exemptions of men serving in Israel's volunteer army, excusing them from battle:
Of course, the men needed to be fully committed to fighting for their land and nation and not be distracted by those things listed above.
What distracts us from reading God's Word and praying in the morning before we start our daily chores or work? Does our duties of our house, job, marriage? Are we prepared for a spiritual battle today or are we fearful? Will we run away from the fight for the right or stand firm in our faith?
Ephesians 6 tells us to put on the whole armor of God so we can stand against the ways of the devil.
Are we suited up for a spiritual battle today? We need salvation, righteousness, truth, peace, faith, and the sword of the Spirit, His Word.
God can give victory to us as He did to Israel.
Hang in there dear ones.
Ann Voskamp says, "Be a prayer warrior, not a panicked warrior."
such good advice.
LET IT GO
Keep God as my number one priority, serving Him daily.
Study His Word, growing in faith and obedience of my Lord Jesus Christ.
Be alert to the need to take a stand for Jesus against sin.
Allow God to give the victory when I am told to not fight.
Give God the glory for the victories.
Daily put on the armor of God.
*Thank you for praying for our mission team this week. Many were saved while they were in the Dominican Republic. Today they fly home, so please say a prayer of safety and strong health. I'll have more details next week, since I do not have any yet. Have a great weekend, ya'll.
November 14, 2014
Deuteronomy 20
For the LORD your God is he that goeth with you, to fight for you against your enemies, to save you. Deuteronomy 20:4
LET IT GLOW
Battles will come, that is for certain. It may come at work, at home, in the car, in the store. How do we get ready for a spiritual battle today? Is God with us, fighting for us? Are we prepared properly? I find that I fail when I fail to prepare. I can't live this Christian life on my own, so I must yield to Jesus before going out into the world to do battle. Even before I answer the phone early in the morning, I must have the Spirit leading me. Israel was told how to prepare for their battles so they could conquer their Promised Land. Will you read on with me?
This second generation of Israelites had seen and experienced some battles before they came to camp at the edge of the Jordan River.
These victories included:
- Amalek at Rephidim (Ex. 17:8-16),
- Amalek and Canaanites at Hormah (Num. 14:45),
- Arad at Hormah (Num. 21:1-3),
- Amorites at Jahaz (Num 21:21-15),
- Bashan at Edrei (Num. 21:33-35),
- Midian (Num. 31:1-12).
What were Moses' encouraging instructions?
- Even when it looks like the enemy has more horses, chariots, and people than they had, do not be afraid of them, for the LORD thy God is with thee. Remember He brought you out of Egypt. (verse 1)
- Trust in the Lord; He gives victory.
- Their priests were to give an exhortation before each battle. They were serving as chaplains to men facing death. (verse 2)
- They were to say, "Let not your hearts faint, fear not, and do not tremble, neither be ye terrified because of them." (verse 3) (Liberty Bible Commentary)
The role of the priests was to encourage the soldiers by God's promise, presence, and power to be strong in faith. A lack of trust in God's ability to fight for them would affect the strength of their will so that they would become fainthearted. Victory was linked to their faith in God. (MacArthur)
Later one, David challenged the Philistine champion, only nine foot and nine inches tall, giant Goliath as he cursed David by his gods. Mockery and fierceness of one giant did not shake David's confidence and faith in His God. We read how that turned out in 1 Samuel 17, with David killing the giant, armed with only 5 smooth stones and a sling shot.
Do we have that kind of faith as we fight spiritual battles in our life? Who do we trust in when we have financial problems, marital issues, shaky job situations, children going astray? Will we cower down or ask God for Him to give the victory?
LET IT GROW
The officers' duties included keeping geological tables, appointing men to battle, and releasing others from battle.
There were four exemptions of men serving in Israel's volunteer army, excusing them from battle:
- If any man built a new house and had not lived in it yet;
- If any man had planted a new vineyard and not eaten of its fruit (harvested);
- If a man was engaged and not yet married;
- If any man was fearful and cowardly, since he would discourage the other soldiers. (Falwell)
Of course, the men needed to be fully committed to fighting for their land and nation and not be distracted by those things listed above.
What distracts us from reading God's Word and praying in the morning before we start our daily chores or work? Does our duties of our house, job, marriage? Are we prepared for a spiritual battle today or are we fearful? Will we run away from the fight for the right or stand firm in our faith?
Ephesians 6 tells us to put on the whole armor of God so we can stand against the ways of the devil.
Are we suited up for a spiritual battle today? We need salvation, righteousness, truth, peace, faith, and the sword of the Spirit, His Word.
God can give victory to us as He did to Israel.
Hang in there dear ones.
Ann Voskamp says, "Be a prayer warrior, not a panicked warrior."
such good advice.
LET IT GO
Keep God as my number one priority, serving Him daily.
Study His Word, growing in faith and obedience of my Lord Jesus Christ.
Be alert to the need to take a stand for Jesus against sin.
Allow God to give the victory when I am told to not fight.
Give God the glory for the victories.
Daily put on the armor of God.
*Thank you for praying for our mission team this week. Many were saved while they were in the Dominican Republic. Today they fly home, so please say a prayer of safety and strong health. I'll have more details next week, since I do not have any yet. Have a great weekend, ya'll.
Thursday, November 13, 2014
A Witness
O. T. #407 "A Witness"
November 13, 2014
Deuteronomy 19-Part 2
And thine eye shall not pity; but life shall go for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot. Deuteronomy 19:21
LET IT GLOW
Yesterday, I went into a party store looking for ideas on decorations for our Vacation Bible School in the summer. A young man was checking me out. Somehow, during our chit-chat, he mentioned that he had been made to attend a Christian school. Also, both sets of grandparents forced him to their church on the weekends, one on Saturday and one on Sunday. He didn't have anything to do with either one now.
Without sounding too preachy, I tried to plant the seed for this confused guy. I encouraged him to not look at the people, because we are all sinners. Only one did not sin-Jesus. The Bible is not just a storybook, but is true and living Word of God. Faith in Jesus is what we need. I felt compassion for this mixed up guy. I asked his name and said I would pray for him.
Later, I thought of many things I could have shared with him, but obviously I was not supposed to water, but only plant the truth of Jesus. I pray others will come along and do that. Who knows, maybe he will be there the next time I go to that store and can witness more to that young man. I was happy to be a witness for Jesus.
Moses laid down the Law concerning false witnesses:
LET IT GROW
In verse 20, we read of the "law of retaliation." It was the principle of legal justice, given so the punishment of a criminal would not be too strict or too lenient. (Exodus 21:23-24; Leviticus 24:20)
Exodus 21:23-24 says, And if any mischief follow, then thou shalt give life for life. eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot.
This law limited the amount of retaliation. Certainly, a man could not be killed if he caused another to loose an eye, tooth, hand, or foot.
It was an exact punishment; it was fair; it was publicly administered; yet in many such cases a just and equitable fine or replacement of damaged property was accomplished. (Falwell)
Jesus confronted the Jews of His day for taking this law out of the courts and using it for purposes of personal vengeance (Matt. 5:38-42). (MacArthur)
In Matthew 5, Jesus tells us:
What kind of witness are we?
LET IT GO
Give and forgive.
Love.
Be Jesus' witness with my words and my life.
November 13, 2014
Deuteronomy 19-Part 2
And thine eye shall not pity; but life shall go for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot. Deuteronomy 19:21
LET IT GLOW
Yesterday, I went into a party store looking for ideas on decorations for our Vacation Bible School in the summer. A young man was checking me out. Somehow, during our chit-chat, he mentioned that he had been made to attend a Christian school. Also, both sets of grandparents forced him to their church on the weekends, one on Saturday and one on Sunday. He didn't have anything to do with either one now.
Without sounding too preachy, I tried to plant the seed for this confused guy. I encouraged him to not look at the people, because we are all sinners. Only one did not sin-Jesus. The Bible is not just a storybook, but is true and living Word of God. Faith in Jesus is what we need. I felt compassion for this mixed up guy. I asked his name and said I would pray for him.
Later, I thought of many things I could have shared with him, but obviously I was not supposed to water, but only plant the truth of Jesus. I pray others will come along and do that. Who knows, maybe he will be there the next time I go to that store and can witness more to that young man. I was happy to be a witness for Jesus.
Moses laid down the Law concerning false witnesses:
- One witness was not enough to convict an accused man of any crime or offense. (verse 15)
- The matter required 2-3 witnesses to settle his guilt. (verse 15)
- If one witness is proven wrong by two other witnesses, then that one is considered a false witness. They must stand in the presence of the Lord and before priests and judges. (verses 16-17)
- The judges thoroughly investigate the one's testimony. If he is proven to have been a liar in the matter, then they were to do to the false witness as he intended to do to his brother. (verses 18-19)
- Israel was to purge the evil from among them-capital punishment. It was so others would hear of the matter and no do the same. (verse 20)
LET IT GROW
In verse 20, we read of the "law of retaliation." It was the principle of legal justice, given so the punishment of a criminal would not be too strict or too lenient. (Exodus 21:23-24; Leviticus 24:20)
Exodus 21:23-24 says, And if any mischief follow, then thou shalt give life for life. eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot.
This law limited the amount of retaliation. Certainly, a man could not be killed if he caused another to loose an eye, tooth, hand, or foot.
It was an exact punishment; it was fair; it was publicly administered; yet in many such cases a just and equitable fine or replacement of damaged property was accomplished. (Falwell)
Jesus confronted the Jews of His day for taking this law out of the courts and using it for purposes of personal vengeance (Matt. 5:38-42). (MacArthur)
In Matthew 5, Jesus tells us:
- If someone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also.
- I someone wants to sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well.
- If someone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles.
- Give to the one who asks you.
- Do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.
What kind of witness are we?
LET IT GO
Give and forgive.
Love.
Be Jesus' witness with my words and my life.
Wednesday, November 12, 2014
Preparing for the Worst
O. T. #406 "Preparing for the Worst"
November 12, 2014
Deuteronomy 19-Part 1
Thou shalt prepare thee a way... Deuteronomy 19:2a
LET IT GLOW
My road of life has been filled with many challenges. Since I have an inflammatory disease called Crohns, there have been complications which effect my body due to it. Right now, I am trying to get the inflammation under control because it is effecting my right eye. I have floaters with strings, which can develop a detached retina. I sure don't want to have surgery to correct it. Seeing the potential seriousness of my situation, (pun intended) I am in need of my Savior preparing and helping me along this way He has me traveling on in my journey of life. I need His strength and love to continue on this rough road. I am getting ready for the worst scenario. Would you please remember me in prayer?
Israel was told to prepare a way. continue reading with me and find out to where it led.
Moses is giving instructions to Israel concerning interpersonal and human relationships, social and community order.
If the Israelites had been faithful in following the Lord fully, then He would have enlarged their territory in the boundaries promised in the Abrahamic covenant. (Gen. 15:18-21) (MacArthur)
If that had happened, then three more cities of refuge would have been needed, making a total of nine. There was to be established three east and three west of the Jordan River, first. (We read about the cities of refuge in Numbers 35.) These cities protected a murderer while waiting for their trial. This promise depended upon the faithfulness of Israel to God, described in verse 9. They were to love God, walk in His ways, and do His commands.
We seem to want the blessings without the obedience. It doesn't work that way.
LET IT GROW
Verse 3 says, Thou shalt prepare thee a way.
Israel was to build roads to these cities of refuge.
Clarke's Commentary explains this, "The Jews inform us that the roads to the cities of refuge were made very broad, thirty-two cubits; and even, so that there should be no impediments in the way; and were constantly kept in good repair."
John the Baptist was preaching in the wilderness of Judea, saying "Repent" and spoke of Isaiah 40, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the LORD, make His paths straight. That was what John was doing, as he was in reference to Jesus, the coming Messiah.
I recall hearing in the form of a beautiful Christmas song, Isaiah 40:4, Every valley shall be exalted, and every mountain and hill shall be made low; and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough places plain: And the glory of the LORD shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together; for the mouth of the LORD hath spoken it.
In John 14:6, Jesus reminds us that He is The Way.
Jesus goes before us, preparing our way, we are not alone along the way. Sometimes the way can seem lonely, too difficult, never ending, and rough to travel. We need to turn to Jesus to help us get out our ruts, out of the fog, out of our problems and trial. His outstretched arm is not too short, friend. He can find us, reach down to us and pull us out, up, into His loving arms. He can fill us with faith and courage to continue on the path He has assigned us to travel.
Removing stumbling blocks, mending bridges, filling in the potholes could have been needful in keeping the way to the cities of refuge. They can also be methods we should use in repairing relationships. Love goes a long way in fixing things. It can require us to have humility.
Are we showing people the way to Christ? Are we assisting them on their broken road? Will we help them find the faith they need to speedily come to Jesus?
LET IT GO
Let go of my fears, doubts, struggles, lack of faith.
Trust God that His way for me is best for me and for His glory.
Stay on that narrow path of faith and don't stray off in my own direction.
Follow Jesus on my road of faith.
November 12, 2014
Deuteronomy 19-Part 1
Thou shalt prepare thee a way... Deuteronomy 19:2a
LET IT GLOW
My road of life has been filled with many challenges. Since I have an inflammatory disease called Crohns, there have been complications which effect my body due to it. Right now, I am trying to get the inflammation under control because it is effecting my right eye. I have floaters with strings, which can develop a detached retina. I sure don't want to have surgery to correct it. Seeing the potential seriousness of my situation, (pun intended) I am in need of my Savior preparing and helping me along this way He has me traveling on in my journey of life. I need His strength and love to continue on this rough road. I am getting ready for the worst scenario. Would you please remember me in prayer?
Israel was told to prepare a way. continue reading with me and find out to where it led.
Moses is giving instructions to Israel concerning interpersonal and human relationships, social and community order.
If the Israelites had been faithful in following the Lord fully, then He would have enlarged their territory in the boundaries promised in the Abrahamic covenant. (Gen. 15:18-21) (MacArthur)
If that had happened, then three more cities of refuge would have been needed, making a total of nine. There was to be established three east and three west of the Jordan River, first. (We read about the cities of refuge in Numbers 35.) These cities protected a murderer while waiting for their trial. This promise depended upon the faithfulness of Israel to God, described in verse 9. They were to love God, walk in His ways, and do His commands.
We seem to want the blessings without the obedience. It doesn't work that way.
LET IT GROW
Verse 3 says, Thou shalt prepare thee a way.
Israel was to build roads to these cities of refuge.
Clarke's Commentary explains this, "The Jews inform us that the roads to the cities of refuge were made very broad, thirty-two cubits; and even, so that there should be no impediments in the way; and were constantly kept in good repair."
John the Baptist was preaching in the wilderness of Judea, saying "Repent" and spoke of Isaiah 40, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the LORD, make His paths straight. That was what John was doing, as he was in reference to Jesus, the coming Messiah.
I recall hearing in the form of a beautiful Christmas song, Isaiah 40:4, Every valley shall be exalted, and every mountain and hill shall be made low; and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough places plain: And the glory of the LORD shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together; for the mouth of the LORD hath spoken it.
In John 14:6, Jesus reminds us that He is The Way.
Jesus goes before us, preparing our way, we are not alone along the way. Sometimes the way can seem lonely, too difficult, never ending, and rough to travel. We need to turn to Jesus to help us get out our ruts, out of the fog, out of our problems and trial. His outstretched arm is not too short, friend. He can find us, reach down to us and pull us out, up, into His loving arms. He can fill us with faith and courage to continue on the path He has assigned us to travel.
Removing stumbling blocks, mending bridges, filling in the potholes could have been needful in keeping the way to the cities of refuge. They can also be methods we should use in repairing relationships. Love goes a long way in fixing things. It can require us to have humility.
Are we showing people the way to Christ? Are we assisting them on their broken road? Will we help them find the faith they need to speedily come to Jesus?
LET IT GO
Let go of my fears, doubts, struggles, lack of faith.
Trust God that His way for me is best for me and for His glory.
Stay on that narrow path of faith and don't stray off in my own direction.
Follow Jesus on my road of faith.
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