I've been absent a few days, but still constantly researching topics on my heart, because that it what I am led to do. As you might imagine, coming across as much information as we're sometimes able to can be too much to say the least.
It's funny, right after my last post, as I was so convinced that food was the best place to enter in to learning about God's Torah, I found some information called, "The Mosaic Law: It's Function and Purpose in the New Testament." This article attempted to prove, scripturally, in great detail, about why the law is something we don't need to follow anymore. His points were well backed up with scripture and generally, it is what I have heard in Christian circles. I spent a while reading it though, and it is still pulled up on my computer. http://bible.org/article/mosaic-law-its-function-and-purpose-new-testament
I may have gotten the scripture from this article or not, but, Hebrews 13:9 cut through some of the muck and mire for me, as it reads: Do not be carried away by various strange teachings; for what is good is for the heart to be strengthened by grace, not by foods. People who have made these the focus of their lives have not benefited thereby. This was a relieving statement, but does it mean that we can do away with Torah altogether? Also, there is a young (but very wise) girl's blog, who I've been browsing for some time now, who is dedicated to the Messiah, Jeshua, Jesus! And also she is dedicated to keeping the Torah. Her arguments are also biblical and make a lot of sense. And in fact, she just posted and article yesterday that seems to also address questions on my heart. It seemed like it was almost written just for me! Her article is here:http://aponderingheart.com/blog/?p=4830
In all this study, I know, I must remember, God's Word is true and constant, it is the final authority, and it does not contradict itself, though people have derived so many differing opinions from it! So how will I know that my understanding is the correct understanding? Probably I need to start reading God's Word (to me) a little more than other blogs about it! Even good ones =P Now that I'm not on my 30-day schedule, I have definitely not been spending the amount of time there I was before.
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
My Starting Place - God and Food
So, my study in God's Word thus far has brought me this far!
First, I learned that in order to be at peace/ ease with God's we had to obey His Word / His commands.
Then, I learned that God's Word taught that obeying the commands is not enough, but the God truly desires a relationship with us through His son, Yeshua, Jesus the Messiah.
I'm learning that we, as children of the New Covenant in Jesus, must live first from the place of being set at ease / having our sin atoned for. Then, we must follow His commands, because we love Him. Following His commands, shows Him and others that we love and seek to follow after God.
A bit of personal info about me - I'm always searching out the newest food guidelines that I can find. Growing up, my mom was a nutritionist, and I think that's where I get some of it from. But, I took it on myself, and enjoy discovering what are the best, most nutritious foods to eat for optimal health of the body.
As one could imagine, I've come across TONS of information over the years, much of it conflicting. If you've ever researched nutrition, you know what I mean! New studies are always coming out and new trials always being run.
So, as I really long to dig into God's Law of Life (His commands, His Torah) I thought what better place to start than to investigate what God says about food! I've been so ready and eager to follow every and any advice of man. I think I have a pretty good handle on most of the conventional wisdom that is out there today. It's time to see how that all compares to what God has to say.
Next I'll start with what God began teaching me from His Word about sugar! :) Stay tuned. (I know I will, since on most days I'm the only one who reads this) hehe :)
First, I learned that in order to be at peace/ ease with God's we had to obey His Word / His commands.
Then, I learned that God's Word taught that obeying the commands is not enough, but the God truly desires a relationship with us through His son, Yeshua, Jesus the Messiah.
I'm learning that we, as children of the New Covenant in Jesus, must live first from the place of being set at ease / having our sin atoned for. Then, we must follow His commands, because we love Him. Following His commands, shows Him and others that we love and seek to follow after God.
A bit of personal info about me - I'm always searching out the newest food guidelines that I can find. Growing up, my mom was a nutritionist, and I think that's where I get some of it from. But, I took it on myself, and enjoy discovering what are the best, most nutritious foods to eat for optimal health of the body.
As one could imagine, I've come across TONS of information over the years, much of it conflicting. If you've ever researched nutrition, you know what I mean! New studies are always coming out and new trials always being run.
So, as I really long to dig into God's Law of Life (His commands, His Torah) I thought what better place to start than to investigate what God says about food! I've been so ready and eager to follow every and any advice of man. I think I have a pretty good handle on most of the conventional wisdom that is out there today. It's time to see how that all compares to what God has to say.
Next I'll start with what God began teaching me from His Word about sugar! :) Stay tuned. (I know I will, since on most days I'm the only one who reads this) hehe :)
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Laws and Relationship
Yesterday, I left my blog entry dangling with quite the question in my heart about the role of Torah (the Law) in a born-again, Spirit-filled person's life, who has accepted the sacrifice of her Savior, Yesuah, Jesus, the Messiah, and become grafted into the Vine.
Whew!
I don't listen to radio that much. Yesterday, I flicked it on and the first thing that I heard caught my attention:
"Rules without relationship...lead to rebellion." Honestly, the second part is fuzzy in my memory, but the first part was clear. Rules without relationship
...lead to rebellion...
...don't last
...don't work
...are weak
...have not accountability, enforcement, hold no true weight.
Hmmm...I sort of like that last one.
If I follow all the laws of God as best I can, but have no regard for the One who put the laws there, what do I profit? Maybe the Israelites had a difficult time consistently keeping the laws of God, because they had such a difficult time keeping close to the God who made them.
Whew!
I don't listen to radio that much. Yesterday, I flicked it on and the first thing that I heard caught my attention:
"Rules without relationship...lead to rebellion." Honestly, the second part is fuzzy in my memory, but the first part was clear. Rules without relationship
...lead to rebellion...
...don't last
...don't work
...are weak
...have not accountability, enforcement, hold no true weight.
Hmmm...I sort of like that last one.
If I follow all the laws of God as best I can, but have no regard for the One who put the laws there, what do I profit? Maybe the Israelites had a difficult time consistently keeping the laws of God, because they had such a difficult time keeping close to the God who made them.
Monday, March 7, 2011
What Role Do God's Command's Play in My Life?
Matthew 6:25 "Therefore, I tell you, don't worry about your life -- what you will eat or drink; or about your body -- what you will wear. Isn't life more than food and the body more than clothing?"
merimna (care, anxiety) - mérimna (see 3307 /merízō, "divide") – properly, a part, separated from the whole; (figuratively) worry (anxiety), dividing and fracturing a person's being into parts. See 3309 (merimnaō). (http://strongsnumbers.com/greek/3308.htm)
We're talking about literally being divided or distracted. What causes me to be divided or distracted? So many things.
What causes me to be made whole? Understanding with conviction. Being convinced, and walking it out.
I see division when I see 5 different tabs open on my internet screen researching one topic, trying to pull me in 5 different directions. Let God's Word Be True.
So now the question on my heart is, What role do God's commands play in our life?
Matthew 5
17 "Don't think that I have come to abolish the Torah or the Prophets. I have come not to abolish but to complete. (accomplish, complete, fulfill)
From pleres; to make replete, i.e. (literally) to cram (a net), level up (a hollow), or (figuratively) to furnish (or imbue, diffuse, influence), satisfy, execute (an office), finish (a period or task), verify (or coincide with a prediction), etc. -- accomplish, X after, (be) complete, end, expire, fill (up), fulfil, (be, make) full (come), fully preach, perfect, supply. http://strongsnumbers.com/greek/4137.htm
18 Yes indeed! I tell you that until heaven and earth pass away, not so much as a yud or a stroke will pass from the Torah -- not until everything that must happen has happened. 19 So whoever disobeys the least of these mitzvot and teaches others to do so will be called the least in the Kingdom of Heaven. But whoever obeys them and so teaches will be called great in the Kingdom of Heaven. So if the Law is fulfilled, why does it matter if we disobey it? 20 For I tell you that unless your righteousness is far greater than that of the Torah-teachers and P'rushim, you will certainly not enter the Kingdom of Heaven! 21 "You have heard that our fathers were told, `Do not murder,'l and that anyone who commits murder will be subject to judgment. 22 But I tell you that anyone who nurses anger against his brother will be subject to judgment; that whoever calls his brother, `You good-for-nothing!' will be brought before the Sanhedrin; that whoever says, `Fool!' incurs the penalty of burning in the fire of Gei-Hinnom! And, it seems like it's becoming even harder to literally obey it! Matthew 13 Just as the weeds are collected and burned up in the fire, so will it be at the end of the age. 41 The Son of Man will send forth his angels, and they will collect out of his Kingdom all the things that cause people to sin and all the people who are far from Torah; (other translations say "who practice lawlessness".) 42 and they will throw them into the fiery furnace, where people will wail and grind their teeth. 43 Then the righteous will shine forth like the sun in the Kingdom of their Father. Whoever has ears, let him hear! This is very interesting to investigate. Until I hear otherwise (that's sort of a joke), I remain steadfastly considering that Jesus, Yeshua, completely filled the law, and did not diminish or abolish it.
merimna (care, anxiety) - mérimna (see 3307 /merízō, "divide") – properly, a part, separated from the whole; (figuratively) worry (anxiety), dividing and fracturing a person's being into parts. See 3309 (merimnaō). (http://strongsnumbers.com/greek/3308.htm)
We're talking about literally being divided or distracted. What causes me to be divided or distracted? So many things.
What causes me to be made whole? Understanding with conviction. Being convinced, and walking it out.
I see division when I see 5 different tabs open on my internet screen researching one topic, trying to pull me in 5 different directions. Let God's Word Be True.
So now the question on my heart is, What role do God's commands play in our life?
Matthew 5
17 "Don't think that I have come to abolish the Torah or the Prophets. I have come not to abolish but to complete. (accomplish, complete, fulfill)
From pleres; to make replete, i.e. (literally) to cram (a net), level up (a hollow), or (figuratively) to furnish (or imbue, diffuse, influence), satisfy, execute (an office), finish (a period or task), verify (or coincide with a prediction), etc. -- accomplish, X after, (be) complete, end, expire, fill (up), fulfil, (be, make) full (come), fully preach, perfect, supply. http://strongsnumbers.com/greek/4137.htm
18 Yes indeed! I tell you that until heaven and earth pass away, not so much as a yud or a stroke will pass from the Torah -- not until everything that must happen has happened. 19 So whoever disobeys the least of these mitzvot and teaches others to do so will be called the least in the Kingdom of Heaven. But whoever obeys them and so teaches will be called great in the Kingdom of Heaven. So if the Law is fulfilled, why does it matter if we disobey it? 20 For I tell you that unless your righteousness is far greater than that of the Torah-teachers and P'rushim, you will certainly not enter the Kingdom of Heaven! 21 "You have heard that our fathers were told, `Do not murder,'l and that anyone who commits murder will be subject to judgment. 22 But I tell you that anyone who nurses anger against his brother will be subject to judgment; that whoever calls his brother, `You good-for-nothing!' will be brought before the Sanhedrin; that whoever says, `Fool!' incurs the penalty of burning in the fire of Gei-Hinnom! And, it seems like it's becoming even harder to literally obey it! Matthew 13 Just as the weeds are collected and burned up in the fire, so will it be at the end of the age. 41 The Son of Man will send forth his angels, and they will collect out of his Kingdom all the things that cause people to sin and all the people who are far from Torah; (other translations say "who practice lawlessness".) 42 and they will throw them into the fiery furnace, where people will wail and grind their teeth. 43 Then the righteous will shine forth like the sun in the Kingdom of their Father. Whoever has ears, let him hear! This is very interesting to investigate. Until I hear otherwise (that's sort of a joke), I remain steadfastly considering that Jesus, Yeshua, completely filled the law, and did not diminish or abolish it.
Sunday, March 6, 2011
Mitzvah & Torah
It's my understanding that Mitzvah (Mitzvot -pl.) translates to commands, or deeds, and Torah is the Law a whole. Also it is the first 5 books of the Bible: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy.
Mitzvah - There are 613 total mitzvah in scripture. There are 248 positive (as in, do this) and 365 negative (as in, don't do this).
ex: "You are to have no other gods before me," (Exodus 20:3)
"You are not to make for yourselves a carved image or any kind of representation of anything in heaven above, on the earth beneath or in the water below the shoreline," (Exodus 20:4). Torah - The Law (first 5 books of the Bible). But, the Torah can also refer to the entire Jewish scriptures, the whole "Old Testament," (The Law, The Prophets, and The Writings). Scripture verses including "mitzvah" and "Torah" together
- Joshua 22:5 - "Only take great care to obey the mitzvah and the Torah which Moshe the servant of ADONAI gave you - to love ADONAI your God, follow all his ways, observe his mitzvot, cling to him, and serve him with all your heart and being."
- Proverbs 6:23 - For the mitzvah is a lamp, Torah is light, and reproofs that discipline are the way to life. - Mark 12:28-31 - "One of the Torah-teachers came up and heard them engaged in this discussion. Seeing that Yeshua answered them well, he asked him, "Which is the most important mitzvah of them all?" 29 Yeshua answered, "The most important is, `Sh'ma Yisra'el, ADONAI Eloheinu, ADONAI echad [Hear, O Isra'el, the LORD our God, the LORD is one], 30 and you are to love ADONAI your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your understanding and with all your strength.' 31 The second is this: `You are to love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no other mitzvah greater than these." http://www.jewfaq.org/613.htm http://www.jewfaq.org/torah.htm
Mitzvah - There are 613 total mitzvah in scripture. There are 248 positive (as in, do this) and 365 negative (as in, don't do this).
ex: "You are to have no other gods before me," (Exodus 20:3)
"You are not to make for yourselves a carved image or any kind of representation of anything in heaven above, on the earth beneath or in the water below the shoreline," (Exodus 20:4). Torah - The Law (first 5 books of the Bible). But, the Torah can also refer to the entire Jewish scriptures, the whole "Old Testament," (The Law, The Prophets, and The Writings). Scripture verses including "mitzvah" and "Torah" together
- Joshua 22:5 - "Only take great care to obey the mitzvah and the Torah which Moshe the servant of ADONAI gave you - to love ADONAI your God, follow all his ways, observe his mitzvot, cling to him, and serve him with all your heart and being."
- Proverbs 6:23 - For the mitzvah is a lamp, Torah is light, and reproofs that discipline are the way to life. - Mark 12:28-31 - "One of the Torah-teachers came up and heard them engaged in this discussion. Seeing that Yeshua answered them well, he asked him, "Which is the most important mitzvah of them all?" 29 Yeshua answered, "The most important is, `Sh'ma Yisra'el, ADONAI Eloheinu, ADONAI echad [Hear, O Isra'el, the LORD our God, the LORD is one], 30 and you are to love ADONAI your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your understanding and with all your strength.' 31 The second is this: `You are to love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no other mitzvah greater than these." http://www.jewfaq.org/613.htm http://www.jewfaq.org/torah.htm
Saturday, March 5, 2011
Blessings and Curses
My dear husband encouraged me to investigate this topic as a starting point to address the question on a few of the girls hearts I am mentoring:
"Where was God when these terrible things happened to me?"
A tough question to say the least. One you are inclined to give an easy, comforting answer to. But I will not insult the Father by presuming to speak for Him. I will seek His heart in the matter.
In Deuteronomy Chapter 28, God explains part of His system to man. He explains how it is to live in Covenant Blessing, by obeying the commands of the Lord. Is this system still in action today though? I think we'd better be careful before we say it isn't...
Simply put, we either live in covenant with God and therefore receive the privilege of His protection and blessings, or we live far from Him so that He is not our covering - and how can He protect us?
Choice #1. The Blessing - "If you listen closely to what ADONAI your God says, observing and obeying all his mitzvot (commands) which I am giving you today, ADONAI your God will raise you high above all the nations on earth and all the following blessings will be yours in abundance - if you will do what ADONAI your God says," (Deuteronomy 28:1-2)...and He goes on to list blessings. Choice #2. The Curse - "But if you refuse to pay attention to what ADONAI your God says, and do not observe and obey all his mitzvot (commands) and regulations which I am giving you today, then all the following curses will be yours in abundance," (Deuteronomy 28:15)...and He goes on to list curses, which is a much longer and more comprehensive list, maybe to dissuade us from choosing this option all the more!
I believe this is a point that a lot of "Christians" miss. It is a choice to know God, follow Him, and obey His commands. And there are consequences for our choices:
"I call on heaven and earth to witness against you today that I have presented you with life and death, the blessing and the curse. Therefore, choose life, so that you will live, you and your descendants, loving ADONAI your God, paying attention to what he says and clinging to him - for that is the purpose of your life! On this depends the length of time you will live in the land ADONAI swore he would give to your ancestors Avraham, Yitz'chak and Ya'akov (Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob." A great website, talking more about the importance of keeping God's commands can be found here:
http://www.therefinersfire.org/missed_point.htm
"Where was God when these terrible things happened to me?"
A tough question to say the least. One you are inclined to give an easy, comforting answer to. But I will not insult the Father by presuming to speak for Him. I will seek His heart in the matter.
In Deuteronomy Chapter 28, God explains part of His system to man. He explains how it is to live in Covenant Blessing, by obeying the commands of the Lord. Is this system still in action today though? I think we'd better be careful before we say it isn't...
- We can be sure we know Him if we keep His commands - 1 John 2:3
- If we love Him we will keep His commands - John 14:15
Simply put, we either live in covenant with God and therefore receive the privilege of His protection and blessings, or we live far from Him so that He is not our covering - and how can He protect us?
Choice #1. The Blessing - "If you listen closely to what ADONAI your God says, observing and obeying all his mitzvot (commands) which I am giving you today, ADONAI your God will raise you high above all the nations on earth and all the following blessings will be yours in abundance - if you will do what ADONAI your God says," (Deuteronomy 28:1-2)...and He goes on to list blessings. Choice #2. The Curse - "But if you refuse to pay attention to what ADONAI your God says, and do not observe and obey all his mitzvot (commands) and regulations which I am giving you today, then all the following curses will be yours in abundance," (Deuteronomy 28:15)...and He goes on to list curses, which is a much longer and more comprehensive list, maybe to dissuade us from choosing this option all the more!
I believe this is a point that a lot of "Christians" miss. It is a choice to know God, follow Him, and obey His commands. And there are consequences for our choices:
"I call on heaven and earth to witness against you today that I have presented you with life and death, the blessing and the curse. Therefore, choose life, so that you will live, you and your descendants, loving ADONAI your God, paying attention to what he says and clinging to him - for that is the purpose of your life! On this depends the length of time you will live in the land ADONAI swore he would give to your ancestors Avraham, Yitz'chak and Ya'akov (Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob." A great website, talking more about the importance of keeping God's commands can be found here:
http://www.therefinersfire.org/missed_point.htm
Friday, March 4, 2011
Messiah does not impose religion
Colossians 2(Complete Jewish Bible) 1 For I want you to know how hard I work for you, for those in Laodicea, and for the rest of those who have not met me personally. 2 My purpose is that they may be encouraged, that they may be joined together in love, and that they may have all the riches derived from being assured of understanding and fully knowing God's secret truth, which is - the Messiah! 3 It is in him that all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge are hidden. 4 I say this so that no one will fool you with plausible but specious arguments. 5 For although I am away from you physically, I am with you in spirit, rejoicing as I see the disciplined and resolute firmness of your trust in the Messiah. 6 Therefore, just as you received the Messiah Yeshua as Lord, keep living your life united with him. 7 Remain deeply rooted in him; continue being built up in him and confirmed in your trust, the way you were taught, so that you overflow in thanksgiving. 8 Watch out, so that no one will take you captive by means of philosophy and empty deceit, following human tradition which accords with the elemental spirits of the world but does not accord with the Messiah. 9 For in him, bodily, lives the fullness of all that God is. 10 And it is in union with him that you have been made full - he is the head of every rule and authority. 11 Also it was in union with him that you were circumcised with a circumcision not done by human hands, but accomplished by stripping away the old nature's control over the body. In this circumcision done by the Messiah, 12 you were buried along with him by being immersed; and in union with him, you were also raised up along with him by God's faithfulness that worked when he raised Yeshua from the dead. 13 You were dead because of your sins, that is, because of your "foreskin," your old nature. But God made you alive along with the Messiah by forgiving you all your sins. 14 He wiped away the bill of charges against us. Because of the regulations, it stood as a testimony against us; but he removed it by nailing it to the execution-stake. 15 Stripping the rulers and authorities of their power, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by means of the stake. 16 So don't let anyone pass judgment on you in connection with eating and drinking, or in regard to a Jewish festival or Rosh-Hodesh or Shabbat. 17 These are a shadow of things that are coming, but the body is of the Messiah. 18 Don't let anyone deny you the prize by insisting that you engage in self-mortification or angel-worship. Such people are always going on about some vision they have had, and they vainly puff themselves up by their worldly outlook. 19 They fail to hold to the Head, from whom the whole Body, receiving supply and being held together by its joints and ligaments, grows as God makes it grow. 20 If, along with the Messiah, you died to the elemental spirits of the world, then why, as if you still belonged to the world, are you letting yourselves be bothered by its rules? - 21 "Don't touch this!" "Don't eat that!" "Don't handle the other!" 22 Such prohibitions are concerned with things meant to perish by being used [not by being avoided!], and they are based on man-made rules and teachings.b 23 They do indeed have the outward appearance of wisdom, with their self-imposed religious observances, false humility and asceticism; but they have no value at all in restraining people from indulging their old nature.
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Day 31 Reviewed
**A quick disclaimer about this blog...
If you happen to stumble across this blog at this point in time, there are a few things I want you to know. Right now, I'm reviewing my 30 days of reading. Most posts are jumbled to say the least. They are mostly quick thoughts, unedited, of what stood out to me in each day's passage. Also, keep in mind, my thoughts usually have something to do with being "at ease," or being "at peace," because that's the theme I looked for specifically as I read this time! **
Hebrews 11 - Revelation 22
Last day of reviewing this 30 days!! Let's dive right in...
Hmmmm....at the same time, no jot or tittle discontinued? "But one who looks intently at the perfect law, the law of liberty (oh wait), and abides by it, not having become a forgetful hearer but an effectual doer, this man shall be blessed in what he does," (James 1:25).
I've tended to hear myself say a lot lately, I do not like organized religion! James says, "If anyone thinks himself to be religious, and yet does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this man's religion is worthless. This is pure and undefiled religion in the sight of our God and Father, to visit orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world," (James 1:26-27).
"JUDGMENT will be merciless to one who has shown no mercy, mercy triumphs over judgment," (James 2:13).
"Even so faith, if it has no works, is dead, being by itself...You see that faith was working with his works, and as a result of the works, faith was perfected...You see that a man is justified by works, and not faith alone," (James 2:17, 22, 24).
And be careful..." You have lived luxuriously on the earth and led a life of wanton pleasure; ; you have fattened your hearts in a day of slaughter," (James 5:5). Yucko.
"Be patient, therefore, brethren, until the coming of the Lord. Behold, the farmer waits for the precious produce of the soil, being patient about it, until it gets the early and late rains. You too be patient; strengthen your hearts, of the coming of the Lord is at hand. Do not complain, brethren, against one another, that you yourselves may not be judged; behold, the Judge is standing right at the door," (James 5:7-9).
"...to every human institution," (1 Peter 2:13)
"...wives...to your own husbands," 3:1)
"...let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit," (3:4)
"...sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence," (3:15)
"There is no FEAR IN LOVE,"!!! (4:18).
"And they overcame him became him because of the blood of the Lamb and because of the word of their testimony, and they did not love their life even to death," (12:11).
The time will come...woah, "And another angel came out of the temple, crying out with a loud voice to Him who sat on the cloud, "Put in your sickle and reap, because the hour to reap has come, because the harvest of the earth is ripe," (14:15).
"Woe, woe, the great city, in which all who had ships at sea became rich by her wealth, for in one hour, she has been laid waste! Rejoice over her, O heaven, and you saints and apostles and prophets, because God has pronounced judgment for you against her...And in her was found the blood of prophets and of saints and of all who have been slain on the earth," (18:19-20, 24).
"Hallelujah! For the Lord our God, the Almighty reigns. Let us rejoice and be glad and give the glory to Him, for the marriage of the Lamb has come and His bride has made herself ready," (19:7).
"And there shall no longer be any curse; and the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it, and His bond-servants shall serve Him; and they shall see His face," (22:3-4).
If you happen to stumble across this blog at this point in time, there are a few things I want you to know. Right now, I'm reviewing my 30 days of reading. Most posts are jumbled to say the least. They are mostly quick thoughts, unedited, of what stood out to me in each day's passage. Also, keep in mind, my thoughts usually have something to do with being "at ease," or being "at peace," because that's the theme I looked for specifically as I read this time! **
Hebrews 11 - Revelation 22
Last day of reviewing this 30 days!! Let's dive right in...
- Faith
Hmmmm....at the same time, no jot or tittle discontinued? "But one who looks intently at the perfect law, the law of liberty (oh wait), and abides by it, not having become a forgetful hearer but an effectual doer, this man shall be blessed in what he does," (James 1:25).
I've tended to hear myself say a lot lately, I do not like organized religion! James says, "If anyone thinks himself to be religious, and yet does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this man's religion is worthless. This is pure and undefiled religion in the sight of our God and Father, to visit orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world," (James 1:26-27).
"JUDGMENT will be merciless to one who has shown no mercy, mercy triumphs over judgment," (James 2:13).
"Even so faith, if it has no works, is dead, being by itself...You see that faith was working with his works, and as a result of the works, faith was perfected...You see that a man is justified by works, and not faith alone," (James 2:17, 22, 24).
- Stay Away
And be careful..." You have lived luxuriously on the earth and led a life of wanton pleasure; ; you have fattened your hearts in a day of slaughter," (James 5:5). Yucko.
"Be patient, therefore, brethren, until the coming of the Lord. Behold, the farmer waits for the precious produce of the soil, being patient about it, until it gets the early and late rains. You too be patient; strengthen your hearts, of the coming of the Lord is at hand. Do not complain, brethren, against one another, that you yourselves may not be judged; behold, the Judge is standing right at the door," (James 5:7-9).
- 1 Peter
"...to every human institution," (1 Peter 2:13)
"...wives...to your own husbands," 3:1)
"...let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit," (3:4)
"...sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence," (3:15)
- 2 Peter
- 1 John
"There is no FEAR IN LOVE,"!!! (4:18).
- 2 John
- Revelation
"And they overcame him became him because of the blood of the Lamb and because of the word of their testimony, and they did not love their life even to death," (12:11).
The time will come...woah, "And another angel came out of the temple, crying out with a loud voice to Him who sat on the cloud, "Put in your sickle and reap, because the hour to reap has come, because the harvest of the earth is ripe," (14:15).
"Woe, woe, the great city, in which all who had ships at sea became rich by her wealth, for in one hour, she has been laid waste! Rejoice over her, O heaven, and you saints and apostles and prophets, because God has pronounced judgment for you against her...And in her was found the blood of prophets and of saints and of all who have been slain on the earth," (18:19-20, 24).
"Hallelujah! For the Lord our God, the Almighty reigns. Let us rejoice and be glad and give the glory to Him, for the marriage of the Lamb has come and His bride has made herself ready," (19:7).
"I saw thrones, and the sat upon them, and judgment was given to them. And I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded because of the testimony of Jesus and because of the word of God, and those who had not worshiped the beast or his image, and had not received the mark upon their forehead and upon their hand; and they came to life and reigned with Christ for a thousand years. The rest of the dead did not come to life until the thousand years were completed. This is the first resurrection. Blessed and holy is the one who has a part in the first resurrection; over these the second death has no power, but they will be priests of God and of Christ and will reign with Him for a thousand years," (20:4...) Ok, I got carried away. I could really type this whole thing out. So interesting."And I saw no temple in it, for the Lord God, the Almighty, and the Lamb, ARE ITS TEMPLE...city has no need for sun or of the moon to shine upon it, for the glory of God has illuminated it, and its lamp IS THE LAMB," (21:22-23).
"And there shall no longer be any curse; and the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it, and His bond-servants shall serve Him; and they shall see His face," (22:3-4).
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Day 30 Reviewed
**A quick disclaimer about this blog...
If you happen to stumble across this blog at this point in time, there are a few things I want you to know. Right now, I'm reviewing my 30 days of reading. Most posts are jumbled to say the least. They are mostly quick thoughts, unedited, of what stood out to me in each day's passage. Also, keep in mind, my thoughts usually have something to do with being "at ease," or being "at peace," because that's the theme I looked for specifically as I read this time! **
Galatians 1- Hebrews 10
Be calm, child. Be at ease.
"And because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into our heart, crying, 'Abba! Father!'" (4:6). Yes! and "like Isaac, (we) are children of promise," (4:28). Wow. Like Isaac.
Be calm, be at ease...
"Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, this he will also reap," (6:7).
"Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us," (Ephesians 3:20).
"For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain," (Philippians 1:21).
Be "in NO WAY ALARMED by your opponents - which is a sign of destruction for them but of salvation for you," (1:28).
"Not that I speak from want; for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need. I CAN DO ALL THINGS THROUGH HIM WHO STRENGTHENS ME," (4:11-13 emph mine). And, "My God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus," (4:19).
"Therefore, let no one act as your judge in regard to food or drink or in respect to a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath day -- things which are a mere shadow of what is to come; but the substance belongs to Christ," (2:16-17). And for good measure, "Let NO ONE keep defrauding you of your PRIZE by delighting in SELF-ABASEMENT and the worship of the angels, taking his stand on VISIONS he has seen, inflated without cause by his fleshly mind," (2:18). hmmmmmmm...
"Let us therefore draw near with CONFIDENCE to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and may find grace to help in time of need," (Hebrews 4:16 emph mine).
A NEW COVENANT!!!!!!!!!!
"who does not need daily, like those high priests, to offer up sacrifices, first for His own sins, and then for the sins of the people, because this He did ONCE FOR ALL when He offered up Himself. For the Law appoints men as high priests who are weak, but the word of the oath, which came after the Law, appoints a Son, made perfect forever," (7:27-28).
Interesting truth. I don't think I would have had the guts to call something God did imperfect, the Word says, "For if that first covenant had been faultless, there would have been no occasion sought for a second," (8:7) and quotes the prophet Isaiah.
Because gifts and sacrifices cannot make the worshipper perfect :) (9:8).
If you happen to stumble across this blog at this point in time, there are a few things I want you to know. Right now, I'm reviewing my 30 days of reading. Most posts are jumbled to say the least. They are mostly quick thoughts, unedited, of what stood out to me in each day's passage. Also, keep in mind, my thoughts usually have something to do with being "at ease," or being "at peace," because that's the theme I looked for specifically as I read this time! **
Galatians 1- Hebrews 10
- Foolish (Galatians)
Be calm, child. Be at ease.
"And because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into our heart, crying, 'Abba! Father!'" (4:6). Yes! and "like Isaac, (we) are children of promise," (4:28). Wow. Like Isaac.
Be calm, be at ease...
"Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, this he will also reap," (6:7).
- Ephesians
"Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us," (Ephesians 3:20).
- Philippians
"For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain," (Philippians 1:21).
Be "in NO WAY ALARMED by your opponents - which is a sign of destruction for them but of salvation for you," (1:28).
"Not that I speak from want; for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need. I CAN DO ALL THINGS THROUGH HIM WHO STRENGTHENS ME," (4:11-13 emph mine). And, "My God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus," (4:19).
- Colossians
"Therefore, let no one act as your judge in regard to food or drink or in respect to a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath day -- things which are a mere shadow of what is to come; but the substance belongs to Christ," (2:16-17). And for good measure, "Let NO ONE keep defrauding you of your PRIZE by delighting in SELF-ABASEMENT and the worship of the angels, taking his stand on VISIONS he has seen, inflated without cause by his fleshly mind," (2:18). hmmmmmmm...
- 1 Thessalonians
- 1 Timothy
- Titus
- Hebrews
"Let us therefore draw near with CONFIDENCE to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and may find grace to help in time of need," (Hebrews 4:16 emph mine).
A NEW COVENANT!!!!!!!!!!
"who does not need daily, like those high priests, to offer up sacrifices, first for His own sins, and then for the sins of the people, because this He did ONCE FOR ALL when He offered up Himself. For the Law appoints men as high priests who are weak, but the word of the oath, which came after the Law, appoints a Son, made perfect forever," (7:27-28).
Interesting truth. I don't think I would have had the guts to call something God did imperfect, the Word says, "For if that first covenant had been faultless, there would have been no occasion sought for a second," (8:7) and quotes the prophet Isaiah.
Because gifts and sacrifices cannot make the worshipper perfect :) (9:8).
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Day 29 Reviewed
**A quick disclaimer about this blog...
If you happen to stumble across this blog at this point in time, there are a few things I want you to know. Right now, I'm reviewing my 30 days of reading. Most posts are jumbled to say the least. They are mostly quick thoughts, unedited, of what stood out to me in each day's passage. Also, keep in mind, my thoughts usually have something to do with being "at ease," or being "at peace," because that's the theme I looked for specifically as I read this time! **
Romans 1 - 2 Corinthians 13
We've made it!
The law is NOT nullified, it is to be established. But no man is justified by it, in case Paul doesn't make this completely clear :)
"What then? That which Israel is seeking for, it has not obtained, but those who were chosen obtained it, and the rest were hardened; just as it is written,
God gave them a spirit of stupor,
eyes to see not and ears to hear not,
down to this very day," (Romans 11:7-8).
Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor;
not lagging behind in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord;
rejoicing in hope, persevering in tribulation, devoted to prayer,
contributing to the needs of the saints, practicing hospitality.
Bless those who persecute you; bless and curse not.
Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep.
Be of the same mind toward one another; do not be haughty in mind, but associate with the lowly. Do not be wise in your own estimation.
Never pay back evil for evil to anyone.
Respect what is right in the sight of all men.
If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men.
Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written, 'Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,' says the Lord"....................
.......and the whole rest of chapters 12 and 13, I'm not going to type them all out!
Except, the fulfillment of the law : to love your neighbor as yourself. wow. I'm still working through this one. It fulfills the law, but we are still to establish the law?
How about this..."One man regards one day above another, another regards every day alike. Let each man be fully convinced in his own mind. He who observes the day, observes it for the Lord, and he who eats, does so for the Lord, for he gives thanks to God; and he who eats not, for the Lord he does not eat, and gives thanks to God," (14:5-6). We don't live or die for ourselves, it says...
"If one of the unbelievers invites you, and you wish to go, eat anything that is set before you, without asking questions for conscience' sake," (10:27).
"Now the Lord is the Spirit; and WHERE THE SPIRIT OF THE LORD IS, THERE IS LIBERTY," (3:17 emph mine).
"...by evil report and good report; regarded as deceivers and yet true; as unknown yet well-known, as dying yet behold, we live; as punished yet not put to death, as sorrowful yet always rejoicing, as poor yet making many rich, as having nothing yet possessing all things," (6:8-10).
"And God IS ABLE to make all grace abound to you, that ALWAYS having ALL sufficiency in EVERYTHING, you may have an ABUNDANCE for every good deed...He scattered abroad, He gave to the poor, His righteousness abides forever...Now He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food, will supply and MULTIPLY your seed for SOWING and increase the harvest of your righteousness; you will be enriched in everything for ALL LIBERALITY, which through us is producing thanksgiving to God," (9:8-11 emph mine).
If you happen to stumble across this blog at this point in time, there are a few things I want you to know. Right now, I'm reviewing my 30 days of reading. Most posts are jumbled to say the least. They are mostly quick thoughts, unedited, of what stood out to me in each day's passage. Also, keep in mind, my thoughts usually have something to do with being "at ease," or being "at peace," because that's the theme I looked for specifically as I read this time! **
Romans 1 - 2 Corinthians 13
We've made it!
"being justified as a gift by His grace through the redemption which is in Christ J E S U S; whom God displayed publicly as a propitiation in His blood through faith. This was to demonstrate His righteousness, because in the forbearance of God He passed over the sins previously committed; for the demonstration, I say, of His righteousness at the present time, that He might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus. WHERE THEN IS BOASTING? It is excluded. BY WHAT KIND OF LAW? Of works? NO, BUT BY A LAW OF FAITH. For we maintain that a man is justified by faith apart from the LAW," (Romans 3:24-28 emph mine).Therefore, God is the God of the Jews AND the Gentiles.
The law is NOT nullified, it is to be established. But no man is justified by it, in case Paul doesn't make this completely clear :)
"What then? That which Israel is seeking for, it has not obtained, but those who were chosen obtained it, and the rest were hardened; just as it is written,
God gave them a spirit of stupor,
eyes to see not and ears to hear not,
down to this very day," (Romans 11:7-8).
- Good, Practical Advice for Living (Romans 12-13)
Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor;
not lagging behind in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord;
rejoicing in hope, persevering in tribulation, devoted to prayer,
contributing to the needs of the saints, practicing hospitality.
Bless those who persecute you; bless and curse not.
Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep.
Be of the same mind toward one another; do not be haughty in mind, but associate with the lowly. Do not be wise in your own estimation.
Never pay back evil for evil to anyone.
Respect what is right in the sight of all men.
If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men.
Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written, 'Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,' says the Lord"....................
.......and the whole rest of chapters 12 and 13, I'm not going to type them all out!
Except, the fulfillment of the law : to love your neighbor as yourself. wow. I'm still working through this one. It fulfills the law, but we are still to establish the law?
How about this..."One man regards one day above another, another regards every day alike. Let each man be fully convinced in his own mind. He who observes the day, observes it for the Lord, and he who eats, does so for the Lord, for he gives thanks to God; and he who eats not, for the Lord he does not eat, and gives thanks to God," (14:5-6). We don't live or die for ourselves, it says...
- 1 Corinthians
"If one of the unbelievers invites you, and you wish to go, eat anything that is set before you, without asking questions for conscience' sake," (10:27).
- 2 Corinthians
"Now the Lord is the Spirit; and WHERE THE SPIRIT OF THE LORD IS, THERE IS LIBERTY," (3:17 emph mine).
"...by evil report and good report; regarded as deceivers and yet true; as unknown yet well-known, as dying yet behold, we live; as punished yet not put to death, as sorrowful yet always rejoicing, as poor yet making many rich, as having nothing yet possessing all things," (6:8-10).
"And God IS ABLE to make all grace abound to you, that ALWAYS having ALL sufficiency in EVERYTHING, you may have an ABUNDANCE for every good deed...He scattered abroad, He gave to the poor, His righteousness abides forever...Now He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food, will supply and MULTIPLY your seed for SOWING and increase the harvest of your righteousness; you will be enriched in everything for ALL LIBERALITY, which through us is producing thanksgiving to God," (9:8-11 emph mine).
Monday, February 28, 2011
Day 28 Reviewed
**A quick disclaimer about this blog...
If you happen to stumble across this blog at this point in time, there are a few things I want you to know. Right now, I'm reviewing my 30 days of reading. Most posts are jumbled to say the least. They are mostly quick thoughts, unedited, of what stood out to me in each day's passage. Also, keep in mind, my thoughts usually have something to do with being "at ease," or being "at peace," because that's the theme I looked for specifically as I read this time! **
John 21 - Acts 28
The first thing that stood out to me in the book of Acts was the statement, "And there is salvation in no one else; for there is no other name under heaven that has been given among men, by which we must be saved," (Acts 4:12).
Period.
The Eunuch flat out asked for help, and so Phillip "opened his mouth, and beginning from this Scripture he preached Jesus to him," (Acts 8:34). I love that it says he opened his mouth, first of all!!!
That is the first step in most cases. Or, perhaps, opening a blank email :)
God has been showing me lately how judgmental my heart is. So this verse, in particular speaks to me, "Now therefore why do you put God to the test by placing upon the neck of the disciples a yoke which neither our father nor we have been able to bear? But we believe that we are saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus, in the same way as they also are," (Acts 15:10-11 emph mine). Except that I have tended to place judgment on people who aren't even disciples. Just in my heart. Without them even knowing. Yucky :(
He just went ahead and told his whole tale, and concluded with quoting from the prophet Isaiah! And, "Let it be know to you therefore, that this salvation of God has been sent to the Gentiles; they will also listen," (Acts 28: 28).
Bam!
If you happen to stumble across this blog at this point in time, there are a few things I want you to know. Right now, I'm reviewing my 30 days of reading. Most posts are jumbled to say the least. They are mostly quick thoughts, unedited, of what stood out to me in each day's passage. Also, keep in mind, my thoughts usually have something to do with being "at ease," or being "at peace," because that's the theme I looked for specifically as I read this time! **
John 21 - Acts 28
The first thing that stood out to me in the book of Acts was the statement, "And there is salvation in no one else; for there is no other name under heaven that has been given among men, by which we must be saved," (Acts 4:12).
Period.
- Ethiopian Eunuch
The Eunuch flat out asked for help, and so Phillip "opened his mouth, and beginning from this Scripture he preached Jesus to him," (Acts 8:34). I love that it says he opened his mouth, first of all!!!
That is the first step in most cases. Or, perhaps, opening a blank email :)
- Peter and Cornelius
- Continually Joy-Filled
God has been showing me lately how judgmental my heart is. So this verse, in particular speaks to me, "Now therefore why do you put God to the test by placing upon the neck of the disciples a yoke which neither our father nor we have been able to bear? But we believe that we are saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus, in the same way as they also are," (Acts 15:10-11 emph mine). Except that I have tended to place judgment on people who aren't even disciples. Just in my heart. Without them even knowing. Yucky :(
- Paul on Trial - Just Tell it Like it is
He just went ahead and told his whole tale, and concluded with quoting from the prophet Isaiah! And, "Let it be know to you therefore, that this salvation of God has been sent to the Gentiles; they will also listen," (Acts 28: 28).
Bam!
Day 27 Reviewed
**A quick disclaimer about this blog...
If you happen to stumble across this blog at this point in time, there are a few things I want you to know. Right now, I'm reviewing my 30 days of reading. Most posts are jumbled to say the least. They are mostly quick thoughts, unedited, of what stood out to me in each day's passage. Also, keep in mind, my thoughts usually have something to do with being "at ease," or being "at peace," because that's the theme I looked for specifically as I read this time! **
Luke 18 - John 20
At the end of the chapter, He says something marvelous..."FOR JUDGMENT I CAME INTO THIS WORLD, THAT THOSE WHO DO NOT SEE MAY SEE; AND THOSE WHO SEE MAY BECOME BLIND," (9:39).
I love paradoxical reality!!!
If you happen to stumble across this blog at this point in time, there are a few things I want you to know. Right now, I'm reviewing my 30 days of reading. Most posts are jumbled to say the least. They are mostly quick thoughts, unedited, of what stood out to me in each day's passage. Also, keep in mind, my thoughts usually have something to do with being "at ease," or being "at peace," because that's the theme I looked for specifically as I read this time! **
Luke 18 - John 20
- Zaccheus
- John
As (Jesus) passed by, He saw a man blind from birth. And His disciples asked Him, saying, 'Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he should be born blind?' Jesus answered, 'It was neither that this man sinned, nor his parents; but it was in order that the works of God might be displayed in him," (John 9:1-3).How powerful! So that the works of God might be displayed in him! So that we could see that regardless of the cause, the Lord's will is for healing, to the glory of His Name!
At the end of the chapter, He says something marvelous..."FOR JUDGMENT I CAME INTO THIS WORLD, THAT THOSE WHO DO NOT SEE MAY SEE; AND THOSE WHO SEE MAY BECOME BLIND," (9:39).
I love paradoxical reality!!!
Day 26 Reviewed
**A quick disclaimer about this blog...
If you happen to stumble across this blog at this point in time, there are a few things I want you to know. Right now, I'm reviewing my 30 days of reading. Most posts are jumbled to say the least. They are mostly quick thoughts, unedited, of what stood out to me in each day's passage. Also, keep in mind, my thoughts usually have something to do with being "at ease," or being "at peace," because that's the theme I looked for specifically as I read this time! **
Mark 10 - Luke 17
In Mark, when Jesus is questioned by the high priest, He is asked flat out if He is the Christ, the "Son of the Blessed One?" (Mark 14:61). He answers simply, "I am; and you shall see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of power, and coming with the clouds of heaven," (14:62). How many live today as if this claim is as crazy as some tried to treat it then?
Lineage. There's something to be said about the Divine Hand in creating generation after generation with no mistake, hiccup, or interruption on down through Christ's lineage. I think about how sons and daughters come about today. Some "wanted," some desperately prayed for, some out of less than optimal circumstances. I can't help but imagine it was like that all the way down the line, but somehow (actually it's no mystery how - but still blows me away!!) everything lined up. My not in the Bible over chapter 3 was: "God did this."
Simon, James, and John were just trying to run a business and make ends meet. The Lord shows up and prospers them in an instant. Still, He tells them of even greater things he wants to do in and through their lives. They don't hesitate. They follow! (Luke 5:11).
Something I'm interested in is the law. the Torah. Yes, I know we are not under the law, but the "New Covenant," but the Messiah did not wipe away the law, He taught from it and fulfilled it, but what are the implications for us as He still calls us to follow His commands? Matthew chapter 6 gives a good overview of this. "But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High; for He Himself is kind to ungrateful and evil men," (6:35 emph mine).
Martha, Martha :) "you are worried and bothered about so many things; but only a few things are necessary, really only one," (10:42). Only One. One. Only. Lord open my eyes to the One.
"Watch out that the light in you may not be darkness," (11:35). Because the lamp of the body is the eye. The eye. Oh what am I putting in front of my eye? I know well what I've been putting their lately. "When your eye is clear, your whole body is full of light (11:34). I can't say that I've been, ahem, full of light, lately. Something to consider :)
DO NOT BE AFRAID. "Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has chosen gladly to give you the kingdom," (12:32).
And, (do not be afraid) on that day..."let not one who is on the housetop and whose goods are in the house go down to take them away; and likewise let not the one who is in the field turn back. Remember Lot's wife. Whoever seeks to keep his life shall lose it, and whoever loses his life shall preserve it," (17:31). So many thoughts, such simple words My Messiah. Let them sink deep and ponder.
If you happen to stumble across this blog at this point in time, there are a few things I want you to know. Right now, I'm reviewing my 30 days of reading. Most posts are jumbled to say the least. They are mostly quick thoughts, unedited, of what stood out to me in each day's passage. Also, keep in mind, my thoughts usually have something to do with being "at ease," or being "at peace," because that's the theme I looked for specifically as I read this time! **
Mark 10 - Luke 17
In Mark, when Jesus is questioned by the high priest, He is asked flat out if He is the Christ, the "Son of the Blessed One?" (Mark 14:61). He answers simply, "I am; and you shall see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of power, and coming with the clouds of heaven," (14:62). How many live today as if this claim is as crazy as some tried to treat it then?
- Luke
Lineage. There's something to be said about the Divine Hand in creating generation after generation with no mistake, hiccup, or interruption on down through Christ's lineage. I think about how sons and daughters come about today. Some "wanted," some desperately prayed for, some out of less than optimal circumstances. I can't help but imagine it was like that all the way down the line, but somehow (actually it's no mystery how - but still blows me away!!) everything lined up. My not in the Bible over chapter 3 was: "God did this."
Simon, James, and John were just trying to run a business and make ends meet. The Lord shows up and prospers them in an instant. Still, He tells them of even greater things he wants to do in and through their lives. They don't hesitate. They follow! (Luke 5:11).
Something I'm interested in is the law. the Torah. Yes, I know we are not under the law, but the "New Covenant," but the Messiah did not wipe away the law, He taught from it and fulfilled it, but what are the implications for us as He still calls us to follow His commands? Matthew chapter 6 gives a good overview of this. "But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High; for He Himself is kind to ungrateful and evil men," (6:35 emph mine).
Martha, Martha :) "you are worried and bothered about so many things; but only a few things are necessary, really only one," (10:42). Only One. One. Only. Lord open my eyes to the One.
"Watch out that the light in you may not be darkness," (11:35). Because the lamp of the body is the eye. The eye. Oh what am I putting in front of my eye? I know well what I've been putting their lately. "When your eye is clear, your whole body is full of light (11:34). I can't say that I've been, ahem, full of light, lately. Something to consider :)
DO NOT BE AFRAID. "Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has chosen gladly to give you the kingdom," (12:32).
And, (do not be afraid) on that day..."let not one who is on the housetop and whose goods are in the house go down to take them away; and likewise let not the one who is in the field turn back. Remember Lot's wife. Whoever seeks to keep his life shall lose it, and whoever loses his life shall preserve it," (17:31). So many thoughts, such simple words My Messiah. Let them sink deep and ponder.
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Day 25 Reviewed
**A quick disclaimer about this blog...
If you happen to stumble across this blog at this point in time, there are a few things I want you to know. Right now, I'm reviewing my 30 days of reading. Most posts are jumbled to say the least. They are mostly quick thoughts, unedited, of what stood out to me in each day's passage. Also, keep in mind, my thoughts usually have something to do with being "at ease," or being "at peace," because that's the theme I looked for specifically as I read this time! **
Matthew 10 - Mark 9
Matthew chapter 10 stood out to me as "Discipleship Training." I should refer to this when attempting to be an effective disciple as well as trying to guide someone in the Way.
The next thing that stood out here in the New Testament was to see truth with ease. To keep truth easily accessible so that it does not become hidden or convoluded. Not to stray far from the truth. Make sense? "Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart; and you shall find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My load is light," (Matthew 11:28-30).
Be at ease, God will judge, God will divide. "Allow both (tares and wheat) to grow together until the harvest; and in the time of the harvest I will say to the reapers, 'First gather up the tares and bind them in bundles to burn them up; but gather the wheat into my barn,'" (13:30).
Like Solomon, seek understanding. Understanding brought this woman from the outside in. And in what way am I different than her? Not hardly! She was a Canaanite and He was the One sent to the lost sheep of Israel. "Yes, Lord; but even the dogs feed on the crumbs which fall from their masters' table," (15:27). Jesus called her faith great and her daughter was healed.
It's easy to follow the rules and look good on the outside. "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs which on the outside appear beautiful, but inside they are full of dead men's bones and all uncleanness," (23:27).
I had a sense that it was good to use our gifts the way of the expensive perfumes. "'For this perfume might have been sold for a high price and the money given to the poor.' But Jesus, aware of this, said to them, 'Why do you bother the woman? For she has done a good deed to Me,'" (26:9). This may be presumptuous on my part. Something to ponder.
To the accusations, "He did not answer him with regard to even a single charge, so that the governor was quite amazed," (27:14). Be at ease. If it's God's work, He will accomplish His will. Even if I don't understand. They mocked Him...spat on Him...beat Him on the head...took His robe off...took Him away to crucify Him. Chapter 27.
The Lord is showing me this one repeatedly lately: "Take care what you listen to. By your standard of measure it shall be measured to you; and more shall be given you besides," (Mark 4:24). The first part especially, and I'm not even close to having the full understanding.
Even in fear and trembling, tell Him the whole truth, and be made well, be at peace, be healed of your affliction. "Who touched Me?" "But the woman fearing and trembling aware of what had happened to her, came and fell down before Him, and told Him the whole truth," (5:33).
You (me!) use your resources! I will multiply! (like fish and loaves 6:37-44).
If you happen to stumble across this blog at this point in time, there are a few things I want you to know. Right now, I'm reviewing my 30 days of reading. Most posts are jumbled to say the least. They are mostly quick thoughts, unedited, of what stood out to me in each day's passage. Also, keep in mind, my thoughts usually have something to do with being "at ease," or being "at peace," because that's the theme I looked for specifically as I read this time! **
Matthew 10 - Mark 9
- Matthew
Matthew chapter 10 stood out to me as "Discipleship Training." I should refer to this when attempting to be an effective disciple as well as trying to guide someone in the Way.
The next thing that stood out here in the New Testament was to see truth with ease. To keep truth easily accessible so that it does not become hidden or convoluded. Not to stray far from the truth. Make sense? "Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart; and you shall find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My load is light," (Matthew 11:28-30).
Be at ease, God will judge, God will divide. "Allow both (tares and wheat) to grow together until the harvest; and in the time of the harvest I will say to the reapers, 'First gather up the tares and bind them in bundles to burn them up; but gather the wheat into my barn,'" (13:30).
Like Solomon, seek understanding. Understanding brought this woman from the outside in. And in what way am I different than her? Not hardly! She was a Canaanite and He was the One sent to the lost sheep of Israel. "Yes, Lord; but even the dogs feed on the crumbs which fall from their masters' table," (15:27). Jesus called her faith great and her daughter was healed.
It's easy to follow the rules and look good on the outside. "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs which on the outside appear beautiful, but inside they are full of dead men's bones and all uncleanness," (23:27).
I had a sense that it was good to use our gifts the way of the expensive perfumes. "'For this perfume might have been sold for a high price and the money given to the poor.' But Jesus, aware of this, said to them, 'Why do you bother the woman? For she has done a good deed to Me,'" (26:9). This may be presumptuous on my part. Something to ponder.
To the accusations, "He did not answer him with regard to even a single charge, so that the governor was quite amazed," (27:14). Be at ease. If it's God's work, He will accomplish His will. Even if I don't understand. They mocked Him...spat on Him...beat Him on the head...took His robe off...took Him away to crucify Him. Chapter 27.
- Mark
The Lord is showing me this one repeatedly lately: "Take care what you listen to. By your standard of measure it shall be measured to you; and more shall be given you besides," (Mark 4:24). The first part especially, and I'm not even close to having the full understanding.
Even in fear and trembling, tell Him the whole truth, and be made well, be at peace, be healed of your affliction. "Who touched Me?" "But the woman fearing and trembling aware of what had happened to her, came and fell down before Him, and told Him the whole truth," (5:33).
You (me!) use your resources! I will multiply! (like fish and loaves 6:37-44).
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Day 24 Reviewed
**A quick disclaimer about this blog...
If you happen to stumble across this blog at this point in time, there are a few things I want you to know. Right now, I'm reviewing my 30 days of reading. Most posts are jumbled to say the least. They are mostly quick thoughts, unedited, of what stood out to me in each day's passage. Also, keep in mind, my thoughts usually have something to do with being "at ease," or being "at peace," because that's the theme I looked for specifically as I read this time! **
Micah 3 - Matthew 9
"He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?" (Micah 6:8).
"Behold, I am going to deal at that time with all your oppressors, I will save the lame and gather the outcast, and I will turn their shame into praise and renown in all the earth. At that time I will bring you in, even at the time when I gather you together; indeed, I will give you renown and praise among all the people of the earth, when I restore your fortunes before your eyes," says the Lord (3:19-20).
"But for you who fear My name the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its wings; and you will go forth and skip about like calves from the stall. And you will tread down the wicked, for they shall be ashes under the soles of your feet on the day which I am preparing," says the Lord of hosts, (4:2-3).
~~~~~~~~~~THE NEW TESTAMENT~~~~~~~~~~
3:3 - People get ready, "Make ready the way"
3:12 - clear the threshing floor and gather His wheat
4:2-4 - Man shall not live on bread alone, but on EVERY WORD
4:10 - Be gone, Satan, and he left...
4:17 - Repent, Kingdom's at hand
4:20 - immediately the left their nets
5:18 - nothing of the Law shall pass away till all accomplished
5:25 - Make friends quickly with the opponent before you arrive (settle out of court!)
........Do you notice, things are moving quicker, it's not easier to obey, but harder, but there is a new way to fulfill the demands........
5:28 - You sin just by looking adulterously!
6:14 - Forgive, Be forgiven
6:33 - SEEK FIRST...
7:28-29 - Amazement at authority, unlike the learned (AUTHORITY WILL BE KEY)
8:3 - I am willing; be cleansed
8:9 - I, too, am a man under authority (GREATEST faith in Israel)
8:16 - cast out spirits with a WORD, healed ALL who were ill
8:17 - Isaiah 53 - TOOK infermities, CARRIED diseases
8:26 - Save us Lord! Why timid? Little faith...
9:29 - BE IT DONE TO YOU ACCORDING TO YOUR FAITH
If you happen to stumble across this blog at this point in time, there are a few things I want you to know. Right now, I'm reviewing my 30 days of reading. Most posts are jumbled to say the least. They are mostly quick thoughts, unedited, of what stood out to me in each day's passage. Also, keep in mind, my thoughts usually have something to do with being "at ease," or being "at peace," because that's the theme I looked for specifically as I read this time! **
Micah 3 - Matthew 9
- Micah
"He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?" (Micah 6:8).
- Habakkuk
- Zephaniah
"Behold, I am going to deal at that time with all your oppressors, I will save the lame and gather the outcast, and I will turn their shame into praise and renown in all the earth. At that time I will bring you in, even at the time when I gather you together; indeed, I will give you renown and praise among all the people of the earth, when I restore your fortunes before your eyes," says the Lord (3:19-20).
- Haggai
- Zechariah
- Malachi
"But for you who fear My name the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its wings; and you will go forth and skip about like calves from the stall. And you will tread down the wicked, for they shall be ashes under the soles of your feet on the day which I am preparing," says the Lord of hosts, (4:2-3).
~~~~~~~~~~THE NEW TESTAMENT~~~~~~~~~~
- Matthew
3:3 - People get ready, "Make ready the way"
3:12 - clear the threshing floor and gather His wheat
4:2-4 - Man shall not live on bread alone, but on EVERY WORD
4:10 - Be gone, Satan, and he left...
4:17 - Repent, Kingdom's at hand
4:20 - immediately the left their nets
5:18 - nothing of the Law shall pass away till all accomplished
5:25 - Make friends quickly with the opponent before you arrive (settle out of court!)
........Do you notice, things are moving quicker, it's not easier to obey, but harder, but there is a new way to fulfill the demands........
5:28 - You sin just by looking adulterously!
6:14 - Forgive, Be forgiven
6:33 - SEEK FIRST...
7:28-29 - Amazement at authority, unlike the learned (AUTHORITY WILL BE KEY)
8:3 - I am willing; be cleansed
8:9 - I, too, am a man under authority (GREATEST faith in Israel)
8:16 - cast out spirits with a WORD, healed ALL who were ill
8:17 - Isaiah 53 - TOOK infermities, CARRIED diseases
8:26 - Save us Lord! Why timid? Little faith...
9:29 - BE IT DONE TO YOU ACCORDING TO YOUR FAITH
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Day 23 Reviewed
**A quick disclaimer about this blog...
If you happen to stumble across this blog at this point in time, there are a few things I want you to know. Right now, I'm reviewing my 30 days of reading. Most posts are jumbled to say the least. They are mostly quick thoughts, unedited, of what stood out to me in each day's passage. Also, keep in mind, my thoughts usually have something to do with being "at ease," or being "at peace," because that's the theme I looked for specifically as I read this time! **
Daniel 4 - Micah 2
"Nevertheless, I will not totally destroy the house of Jacob," declares the Lord, "For behold, I am commanding, and I will shake the house of Israel among all nations as grain is shaken in a sieve, but not a kernel will fall to the ground.
"Do you have a good reason to be angry?" God says!! Ha!
If you happen to stumble across this blog at this point in time, there are a few things I want you to know. Right now, I'm reviewing my 30 days of reading. Most posts are jumbled to say the least. They are mostly quick thoughts, unedited, of what stood out to me in each day's passage. Also, keep in mind, my thoughts usually have something to do with being "at ease," or being "at peace," because that's the theme I looked for specifically as I read this time! **
Daniel 4 - Micah 2
- Nebuchadnezzar
- Hosea
"Come, let us return to the Lord, For He has torn us, but He will heal us. He has wounded us, but He will bandage us. He will revive us after two days; He will raise us up on the third day that we may live before Him. So let us know, let us press on to know the Lord. His going forth is as certain as the dawn; and He will come to us like the rain, Like the spring rain watering the earth," (Hosea 6:1-3).
- Joel
"'Yet even now,' declares the Lord, 'Return to Me with all your heart, and with fasting, weeping, and mourning; and rend your heart and not your garments.' Now return to the Lord your God, For He is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger, abounding in lovingkindness, and relenting of evil. Who knows whether He will not turn and relent, and leave a blessing behind Him..." (Joel 2:12-14).
- Amos
"Nevertheless, I will not totally destroy the house of Jacob," declares the Lord, "For behold, I am commanding, and I will shake the house of Israel among all nations as grain is shaken in a sieve, but not a kernel will fall to the ground.
- Jonah
"Do you have a good reason to be angry?" God says!! Ha!
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Day 22 Reviewed
**A quick disclaimer about this blog...
If you happen to stumble across this blog at this point in time, there are a few things I want you to know. Right now, I'm reviewing my 30 days of reading. Most posts are jumbled to say the least. They are mostly quick thoughts, unedited, of what stood out to me in each day's passage. Also, keep in mind, my thoughts usually have something to do with being "at ease," or being "at peace," because that's the theme I looked for specifically as I read this time! **
Ezekiel 21 - Daniel 3
"O Tyre, you have said, 'I am perfect in beauty,'" (Ezekiel 27:3). A city (not unlike a man), can become complacent with his high and secure status. But inevitably, their demise, "Now that you are broken by the seas In the depths of the waters, you have become terrified, and you will be no more," (27:34, 36).
Ezekiel too continues to speak those same, assuring words over Israel from the Lord, "When I gather the house of Israel from the peoples among whom they are scattered, and shall manifest My holiness in them in the sight of the nations, then they will live in their land which I gave to My servant Jacob. And they will live in it securely; and they will build houses, plant vineyards, and live securely, when I execute judgments upon all who scorn them round about them," (Ezekiel 28:25)...
.....OH Father, Father, Father! All for your ONE GREAT PURPOSE..."Then they will know that I am the Lord their God," (28:26).
"As for you, My sheep, the sheep of My pasture, you are men, and I am your God," declares the Lord, (34:31).
If you happen to stumble across this blog at this point in time, there are a few things I want you to know. Right now, I'm reviewing my 30 days of reading. Most posts are jumbled to say the least. They are mostly quick thoughts, unedited, of what stood out to me in each day's passage. Also, keep in mind, my thoughts usually have something to do with being "at ease," or being "at peace," because that's the theme I looked for specifically as I read this time! **
Ezekiel 21 - Daniel 3
"O Tyre, you have said, 'I am perfect in beauty,'" (Ezekiel 27:3). A city (not unlike a man), can become complacent with his high and secure status. But inevitably, their demise, "Now that you are broken by the seas In the depths of the waters, you have become terrified, and you will be no more," (27:34, 36).
Ezekiel too continues to speak those same, assuring words over Israel from the Lord, "When I gather the house of Israel from the peoples among whom they are scattered, and shall manifest My holiness in them in the sight of the nations, then they will live in their land which I gave to My servant Jacob. And they will live in it securely; and they will build houses, plant vineyards, and live securely, when I execute judgments upon all who scorn them round about them," (Ezekiel 28:25)...
.....OH Father, Father, Father! All for your ONE GREAT PURPOSE..."Then they will know that I am the Lord their God," (28:26).
"As for you, My sheep, the sheep of My pasture, you are men, and I am your God," declares the Lord, (34:31).
- The Holy Name
"But I had concern for My holy name, which the house of Israel had profaned among the nations where they went...It is not for YOUR SAKE, O House of Israel, that I am about to act, but for MY HOLY NAME, which you have profaned among the nations where you went. And I WILL VINDICATE THE HOLINESS OF MY GREAT NAME...(so)...I will SPRINKLE CLEAN WATER ON YOU, and you will be clean; I will CLEANSE YOU FROM ALL YOUR FILTHINESS...I will give you a NEW HEART and put a NEW SPIRIT within you; and I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put My Spirit within you and cause you to walk in My statutes, and you will be careful to observe My ordinances," (Ezekiel 36:21-27, emp mine)......And I will BLESS you on and on and on and on...but not for your sake, but because GOD is GOOD. That is such a lame way of putting it. Ha! I wish I could express more! :) I can only feel it well up inside of me!
- Daniel
Monday, February 21, 2011
Day 21 Reviewed
**A quick disclaimer about this blog...
If you happen to stumble across this blog at this point in time, there are a few things I want you to know. Right now, I'm reviewing my 30 days of reading. Most posts are jumbled to say the least. They are mostly quick thoughts, unedited, of what stood out to me in each day's passage. Also, keep in mind, my thoughts usually have something to do with being "at ease," or being "at peace," because that's the theme I looked for specifically as I read this time! **
Jeremiah 45 - Ezekiel 20
"'Therefore behold, the days are coming,' declares the Lord, 'when I shall send to him those who tip vessels, and they will tip him over, and they will empty his vessels and shatter his jars. And Moab will be ashamed of Chemosh, as the house of Israel was ashamed of Bethel, their confidence,'" (45:12-13) hmmm...?
Let's talk about complete peace and ease. Total resoration:
"'In those days and at that time,' declares the Lord, 'search will be made for the iniquity of Israel, but there will be none; and for the sins of Judah, but they will not be found; for I shall pardon those whom I leave as a remnant,'" (Jeremiah 50:20). NONE shall be FOUND.
Did find anything in the Lamentations.
An interesting, brief, summation of the history of His people Israel...Sad, and poignant too...
A reassuring thought - "Do I have any pleasure in the death of the wicked," declares the Lord God, "rather than that he should turn from his ways and live?" (18:23). Yes, Lord! "For I have no pleasure in the death of anyone who dies," declares the Lord God. "Therefore, repent and live," (18:32).
If you happen to stumble across this blog at this point in time, there are a few things I want you to know. Right now, I'm reviewing my 30 days of reading. Most posts are jumbled to say the least. They are mostly quick thoughts, unedited, of what stood out to me in each day's passage. Also, keep in mind, my thoughts usually have something to do with being "at ease," or being "at peace," because that's the theme I looked for specifically as I read this time! **
Jeremiah 45 - Ezekiel 20
- Moab
"'Therefore behold, the days are coming,' declares the Lord, 'when I shall send to him those who tip vessels, and they will tip him over, and they will empty his vessels and shatter his jars. And Moab will be ashamed of Chemosh, as the house of Israel was ashamed of Bethel, their confidence,'" (45:12-13) hmmm...?
Let's talk about complete peace and ease. Total resoration:
"'In those days and at that time,' declares the Lord, 'search will be made for the iniquity of Israel, but there will be none; and for the sins of Judah, but they will not be found; for I shall pardon those whom I leave as a remnant,'" (Jeremiah 50:20). NONE shall be FOUND.
Did find anything in the Lamentations.
- Ezekiel
An interesting, brief, summation of the history of His people Israel...Sad, and poignant too...
"As for your birth, on the day you were born your navel cord was not cut, nor were you washed with water for cleansing, you were not rubbed with salt or even wrapped in cloths...No eye looked with pity on you...When I passed by you and saw you squirming in your blood, I said to you while you were in your blood, 'Live!'...I made you numerous like plants of the field...I bathed you...I clothed you...I adorned you...Then your fame went forth among the nations...you trusted in your beauty and played the harlot...you sacrificed (sons and daughters) to idols...you slaughtered my children...now, I have stretched out my hand against you to diminish your rations and I delivered you up to the desire of those who hate you, the daughters of the Philistines," (Ezekiel 16).God said He must now gather, judge...and at the end of the WHOLE deal, says He will yet establish His covenant with them! This makes me want to cry!...And says things like, "On the high mountain of Israel I shall plant it, that it may bring forth boughs and bear fruit, and become a stately cedar. And birds of every kind will nest under it; they will nest in the shade of its branches," (17:23). Might I be one of those birds?
A reassuring thought - "Do I have any pleasure in the death of the wicked," declares the Lord God, "rather than that he should turn from his ways and live?" (18:23). Yes, Lord! "For I have no pleasure in the death of anyone who dies," declares the Lord God. "Therefore, repent and live," (18:32).
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Day 20 Reviewed
**A quick disclaimer about this blog...
If you happen to stumble across this blog at this point in time, there are a few things I want you to know. Right now, I'm reviewing my 30 days of reading. Most posts are jumbled to say the least. They are mostly quick thoughts, unedited, of what stood out to me in each day's passage. Also, keep in mind, my thoughts usually have something to do with being "at ease," or being "at peace," because that's the theme I looked for specifically as I read this time! **
Jeremiah 11 - Jeremiah 44
Jeremiah confirms what other prophets have implored of the Israelites..."Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord and whose trust is in the Lord. For he will be like a tree planted by the water, that extends its roots by a stream and will not fear when the heat comes; but its leaves will be green, and it will not be anxious in a year of drought nor cease to yield fruit," (Jeremiah 17:7-8). Nor cease to yield fruit!!! Yeah!! I love those pictures of bounty :)
And the famous, "I know the plans that I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope," (Jeremiah 29:11). BUT WHY?? "Then you will call upon Me and come and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart. And I will be found by you, declares the Lord, and I will restore your fortunes and will gather you from all the nations and from all the places where I have driven you, declares the Lord, and I will bring you back to the place from where I sent you into exile," (29:12-14).
He wants RELATIONSHIP. He WANTS THEM BACK.
For real.
Listen to this: "Is Ephraim My dear son? Is he a delightful child? Indeed, as often as I have spoken against him, I certainly still remember him; Therefore My heart yearns for him; I will surely have mercy on him, declares the Lord," (31:20 emph mine).
"'Behold, days are coming,' declares the Lord, 'when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah, not like the covenant which I made with their fathers in the day I took them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt, My covenant which they broke, although I was a husband to them,' declares the Lord. 'But this is the covenant which I will make with the house of Israel after those days,' declares the Lord, 'I will put My law within them, and on their heart I will write it; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people.'
'And they shall not teach again, each man his neighbor and each man his brother saying, 'Know the Lord,' for they SHALL ALL KNOW ME, from the least of them to the greatest of them,' declares the Lord, 'for I will forgive their iniquity, and their sin I WILL REMEMBER NO MORE.' (Jeremiah 31:31-34).
They'll have "one heart and one way, that they may fear Me always, for their own good, and for the good of their children after them," (32:39).
And it will be "an everlasting covenant with them that I will not turn away from them, to do them good; and I will put the fear of Me in their hearts so that they will not turn away from Me,"(32:40).
And He will "rejoice over them to do them good," (32:41).
And He will "faithfully plant them in this land with all My heart and with all My soul," (32:41).
If you happen to stumble across this blog at this point in time, there are a few things I want you to know. Right now, I'm reviewing my 30 days of reading. Most posts are jumbled to say the least. They are mostly quick thoughts, unedited, of what stood out to me in each day's passage. Also, keep in mind, my thoughts usually have something to do with being "at ease," or being "at peace," because that's the theme I looked for specifically as I read this time! **
Jeremiah 11 - Jeremiah 44
Jeremiah confirms what other prophets have implored of the Israelites..."Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord and whose trust is in the Lord. For he will be like a tree planted by the water, that extends its roots by a stream and will not fear when the heat comes; but its leaves will be green, and it will not be anxious in a year of drought nor cease to yield fruit," (Jeremiah 17:7-8). Nor cease to yield fruit!!! Yeah!! I love those pictures of bounty :)
And the famous, "I know the plans that I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope," (Jeremiah 29:11). BUT WHY?? "Then you will call upon Me and come and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart. And I will be found by you, declares the Lord, and I will restore your fortunes and will gather you from all the nations and from all the places where I have driven you, declares the Lord, and I will bring you back to the place from where I sent you into exile," (29:12-14).
He wants RELATIONSHIP. He WANTS THEM BACK.
For real.
Listen to this: "Is Ephraim My dear son? Is he a delightful child? Indeed, as often as I have spoken against him, I certainly still remember him; Therefore My heart yearns for him; I will surely have mercy on him, declares the Lord," (31:20 emph mine).
- The Days Are Coming!!!
"'Behold, days are coming,' declares the Lord, 'when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah, not like the covenant which I made with their fathers in the day I took them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt, My covenant which they broke, although I was a husband to them,' declares the Lord. 'But this is the covenant which I will make with the house of Israel after those days,' declares the Lord, 'I will put My law within them, and on their heart I will write it; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people.'
'And they shall not teach again, each man his neighbor and each man his brother saying, 'Know the Lord,' for they SHALL ALL KNOW ME, from the least of them to the greatest of them,' declares the Lord, 'for I will forgive their iniquity, and their sin I WILL REMEMBER NO MORE.' (Jeremiah 31:31-34).
They'll have "one heart and one way, that they may fear Me always, for their own good, and for the good of their children after them," (32:39).
And it will be "an everlasting covenant with them that I will not turn away from them, to do them good; and I will put the fear of Me in their hearts so that they will not turn away from Me,"(32:40).
And He will "rejoice over them to do them good," (32:41).
And He will "faithfully plant them in this land with all My heart and with all My soul," (32:41).
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Day 19 Reviewed
Isaiah 43 - Jeremiah 10
**A quick disclaimer about this blog...
If you happen to stumble across this blog at this point in time, there are a few things I want you to know. Right now, I'm reviewing my 30 days of reading. Most posts are jumbled to say the least. They are mostly quick thoughts, unedited, of what stood out to me in each day's passage. Also, keep in mind, my thoughts usually have something to do with being "at ease," or being "at peace," because that's the theme I looked for specifically as I read this time! **
Isaiah 43:26 - "I, even I am the one who wipes out your transgressions for My own sake; And I will not remember your sins." And then, "Put me in remembrance; let us argue our case together, state your cause, that you may be proved right." God goes on to say that their first forefather sinned, but He loves them unconditionally, He still wants them to come close. Close enough for repentance and willingness to work through this deal together. And then, total forgiveness, total restoration.
Isaiah 55:10:11 - "For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return there without watering the earth, and make it bear and sprout, and furnishing seed to the sower and bread to the eater; So shall my word be which goes forth from My mouth; It shall not return to Me empty, without accomplishing what I desire, and without succeeding in the matter for which I sent it."
Something God mentions a number of times throughout the Word so far is that God will satisfy all our needs as we satisfy others.
Isaiah 58:10-11 - "And if you give yourself to the hungry, and satisfy the desire of the afflicted, then your light will rise in darkness, and your gloom will become like midday. And the Lord will continually guide you, and satisfy your desire in scorched places., and give strength to your bones; and you will be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water whose waters do not fail..."
I have questions about Isaiah 65:17...Is this for now, or for future? Mental note for me to return to :)
**A quick disclaimer about this blog...
If you happen to stumble across this blog at this point in time, there are a few things I want you to know. Right now, I'm reviewing my 30 days of reading. Most posts are jumbled to say the least. They are mostly quick thoughts, unedited, of what stood out to me in each day's passage. Also, keep in mind, my thoughts usually have something to do with being "at ease," or being "at peace," because that's the theme I looked for specifically as I read this time! **
- Forgiveness
Isaiah 43:26 - "I, even I am the one who wipes out your transgressions for My own sake; And I will not remember your sins." And then, "Put me in remembrance; let us argue our case together, state your cause, that you may be proved right." God goes on to say that their first forefather sinned, but He loves them unconditionally, He still wants them to come close. Close enough for repentance and willingness to work through this deal together. And then, total forgiveness, total restoration.
- Foreshadowing of our Peace - Isaiah 53
"He has no stately form or majesty that we should look upon Him, nor appearance that we should be attracted to Him. He was despised and forsaken of men, a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief; And like one from whom men hide their face, He was despised, and we did not esteem Him.
Surely our griefs HE HIMSELF BORE, And our sorrows HE CARRIED; Yet we ourselves esteemed Him stricken, Smitten of God, and afflicted. But He was PIERCED THROUGH FOR OUR TRANSGRESSIONS, He was CRUSHED FOR OUR INIQUITIES; the chastening for OUR WELL-BEING was upon Him, And by His scourging WE ARE HEALED...He Himself bore the sin of MANY..." (Isaiah 53:2-5, 12 emph. mine...but basically, read the whole thing!!!)Isaiah 55:1,2 - "Every one who thirsts, come to the waters; and you who have no money come, buy and eat...Listen carefully to Me, and eat what is good, and delight yourself in abundance." YES!!
Isaiah 55:10:11 - "For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return there without watering the earth, and make it bear and sprout, and furnishing seed to the sower and bread to the eater; So shall my word be which goes forth from My mouth; It shall not return to Me empty, without accomplishing what I desire, and without succeeding in the matter for which I sent it."
Something God mentions a number of times throughout the Word so far is that God will satisfy all our needs as we satisfy others.
Isaiah 58:10-11 - "And if you give yourself to the hungry, and satisfy the desire of the afflicted, then your light will rise in darkness, and your gloom will become like midday. And the Lord will continually guide you, and satisfy your desire in scorched places., and give strength to your bones; and you will be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water whose waters do not fail..."
I have questions about Isaiah 65:17...Is this for now, or for future? Mental note for me to return to :)
Friday, February 18, 2011
Day 18 Reviewed
Isaiah 3 - Isaiah 42
We are making a lot of decisions in a short amount of time right now, there are scriptures we've already gone through, that I'm going to cling to! I love this command to Isaiah...
"And you are not to fear what they fear or be in dread of it. It is the Lord of hosts whom you should regard as holy," (Isaiah 8:12). You are not to fear what they fear!! What does the world fear? Ha! What do they not? Market collapse, financial devastation, sickness, disease, discomfort, death...you name it! "And He is to be your fear, And He is to become your dread," (8:13). I know this sounds strange, but I believe it means...why fear what the world fears, if God is far above it. If we should dread or fear anything, it should be Him, who is strong enough to bring death to death itself!! "And He shall become a sanctuary," (8:14). He is the safest place to be.
Did I mention He is destroying death?! God told His people that they had made a pact with death! He says: "Because you have said, 'We have made a covenant with death, And with Sheol we have made a pact. The overwhelming scourge will not reach us when it passes by, For we have made falsehood our refuge and we have concealed ourselves with deception,'" (Isaiah 27:15).
Therefore, God said:
Look. to. Him. And be in refuge, safe, secure...
And finally, good, solid prophecy!
We are making a lot of decisions in a short amount of time right now, there are scriptures we've already gone through, that I'm going to cling to! I love this command to Isaiah...
"And you are not to fear what they fear or be in dread of it. It is the Lord of hosts whom you should regard as holy," (Isaiah 8:12). You are not to fear what they fear!! What does the world fear? Ha! What do they not? Market collapse, financial devastation, sickness, disease, discomfort, death...you name it! "And He is to be your fear, And He is to become your dread," (8:13). I know this sounds strange, but I believe it means...why fear what the world fears, if God is far above it. If we should dread or fear anything, it should be Him, who is strong enough to bring death to death itself!! "And He shall become a sanctuary," (8:14). He is the safest place to be.
Did I mention He is destroying death?! God told His people that they had made a pact with death! He says: "Because you have said, 'We have made a covenant with death, And with Sheol we have made a pact. The overwhelming scourge will not reach us when it passes by, For we have made falsehood our refuge and we have concealed ourselves with deception,'" (Isaiah 27:15).
Therefore, God said:
Behold, I am laying in Zion a stone, a tested stone, A costly cornerstone for the foundation, firmly placed. He who believes in it will not be disturbed. And I will make justice the measuring line, And righteousness the level; Then hail shall sweep away the refuge of lies, And the waters shall overflow the secret place. And your covenant with death shall be canceled, And your pact with Sheol shall not stand; When the overwhelming scourge passes through, Then you become its trampling place. 'As often as it passes through, it will seize you." (Isaiah 27:16-18).The choices are God's side or death's side.
Look. to. Him. And be in refuge, safe, secure...
"Look upon Zion, the city of our appointed feasts; Your eyes shall see Jerusalem an undisturbed habitation, A tent which shall not be folded, Its stakes shall never be pulled up Nor any of its cords be torn apart. But there the majestic One, the Lord, shall be for us A place of rivers and wide canals, On which no boat with oars shall go, And on which no boat with oars shall go, And on which no mighty ship shall pass -- For the Lord is our judge, The Lord is our lawgiver, The Lord is our king; He will save us --- Your tackle hangs slack; It cannot hold the base of its mast firmly, Nor spread out the sail. Then the prey of an abundant spoil will be divided; The lame will take the plunder. And no resident will say, 'I am sick'; The people who dwell there will be forgiven their iniquity," (Isaiah 33:20-24).
And finally, good, solid prophecy!
Behold, My Servant, whom I uphold; My chosen one in whom My soul delights. I have put My Spirit upon Him; He will bring forth justice to the nations. He will not cry out or raise His voice, Nor make His voice heard in the street. A bruised reed He will not break, And a dimly burning which He will not extinguish; He will faithfully bring forth justice. He will not be disheartened or crushed, Until He has established justice in the earth; And the coastlands will wait expectantly for His law," (Isaiah 42:1-4).
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Day 17 Reviewed
Proverbs 8 - Isaiah 2
More of the "paradoxical" coolness of God. "There is one who scatters, yet increases all the more, And there is one who withholds what is justly due, but it results only in want. The generous man will be prosperous, and he who waters will himself be watered," (Proverbs 11:24-25, emph. mine). Of course we see this sort of thing all throughout the gospels when Jesus Christ comes and begins teaching, and fulfilling the law. But this is early wisdom of Solomon. God surely did give him the understanding he prayed for!!
I've been noticing especially passages about "bearing fruit," and "becoming fruitful." This one, for example, "A man will be satisfied with good by the fruit of his words," (Proverbs 12:14). I'm becoming more and more aware of the power of the mouth, the tongue, words, etc!! How interesting and how true -- that what we say can actually have a profound effect on the outcome of our lives.
"A tranquil heart is life to the body, but passion is rottenness to the bones," (Proverbs 14:30). I love the wisdom of God. It is so unnatural to how I am tempted to think. Yet, so proven!! There is scientific study after scientific study that tells us this same thing :) They may phrase it something like, Lowering stress level reduces heart attacks, etc.
Another good one, Oooooh so proven in marriage, "A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger," (Proverbs 15:1). Oh how well things go when I cling to this truth!!
ok ok ok I digress. "So, remove vexation fro your heart and put away pain from your body, because childhood and the prime of life are fleeting," (Eccl. 11:10). I guess you could consider these things, at least what pop-culture media calls, the 'prime of life.' Yuck yuck yuck. Prime nothing.
You want prime passion, read the Song of Solomon and embrace God's love for his bride (church) as a man embraces his wife. This is the real stuff!
I am my Beloveds and He is mine.
More of the "paradoxical" coolness of God. "There is one who scatters, yet increases all the more, And there is one who withholds what is justly due, but it results only in want. The generous man will be prosperous, and he who waters will himself be watered," (Proverbs 11:24-25, emph. mine). Of course we see this sort of thing all throughout the gospels when Jesus Christ comes and begins teaching, and fulfilling the law. But this is early wisdom of Solomon. God surely did give him the understanding he prayed for!!
I've been noticing especially passages about "bearing fruit," and "becoming fruitful." This one, for example, "A man will be satisfied with good by the fruit of his words," (Proverbs 12:14). I'm becoming more and more aware of the power of the mouth, the tongue, words, etc!! How interesting and how true -- that what we say can actually have a profound effect on the outcome of our lives.
"A tranquil heart is life to the body, but passion is rottenness to the bones," (Proverbs 14:30). I love the wisdom of God. It is so unnatural to how I am tempted to think. Yet, so proven!! There is scientific study after scientific study that tells us this same thing :) They may phrase it something like, Lowering stress level reduces heart attacks, etc.
Another good one, Oooooh so proven in marriage, "A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger," (Proverbs 15:1). Oh how well things go when I cling to this truth!!
- Proverbs 31
Her worth is far above jewels...her husbands heart trusts in her...she does him good, not evil...she works with her hands in delight...she brings her food...considers and buys in business...strengthens herself...is not afraid...makes coverings...SMILES AT THE FUTURE...the teaching of kindness is on her tongue...I love it! I don't want to be her, I want to be me! The awesome woman God created me to be, not missing out on any of the benefits or good things God has planned! (Remember Ps. 103??) I can live out of that place in my household and the world.
- Ecclesiastes
ok ok ok I digress. "So, remove vexation fro your heart and put away pain from your body, because childhood and the prime of life are fleeting," (Eccl. 11:10). I guess you could consider these things, at least what pop-culture media calls, the 'prime of life.' Yuck yuck yuck. Prime nothing.
You want prime passion, read the Song of Solomon and embrace God's love for his bride (church) as a man embraces his wife. This is the real stuff!
I am my Beloveds and He is mine.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Day 16 Reviewed
Psalm 94 - Proverbs 7
PS 94 - Look what causes relief from the days of adversity: learning God's law! (94:12-13).
PS 97 - Again we see Righteousness...Righteousness and justice are the very foundations of His throne! I understand this to mean that is where He begins!! (97:3).
PS 103 - Bless the Lord, O my soul; And all that is within me, bless His holy name...And forget NONE of His benefits...who PARDONS all your iniquities, who HEALS all your diseases...who REDEEMS your life from the pit...who CROWNS you with lovingkindness and compassion...who SATISFIES your years with good things... Praise the Lord!!!
PS 104 - Even the earth "is satisfied with the fruit of His works." (104:13).
PS 113 - He makes the barren woman "abide in the house"!!!! As a joyful mother of children :)
(113:9).
PS 119 - God's word sets things right! They are a "delight...conselour...reviver...strengthener...I shall run in they way of Thy commandments, For Tho wilt ENLARGE my heart," (119:24-32) I think I need my heart enlarged!! His commandments ARE righteousness (119: 172).
PS 127 - "Unless the Lord builds the house," it is done in vain! For He is able to do, even as we sleep! (127:1-2). And children -- what God says about them is so different than what the world says :) (127:3-5).
PS 132 - The Lord has chosen Zion as his resting place forever. (132:13-14) In fact, He has desired it!! Does HE rest in US?? hmmm.
and the PROVERBS...Basically their entire theme is LAW (WORD) OF THE LORD = EASE/PEACE= j e s . . . :)
...more to come
PS 94 - Look what causes relief from the days of adversity: learning God's law! (94:12-13).
PS 97 - Again we see Righteousness...Righteousness and justice are the very foundations of His throne! I understand this to mean that is where He begins!! (97:3).
PS 103 - Bless the Lord, O my soul; And all that is within me, bless His holy name...And forget NONE of His benefits...who PARDONS all your iniquities, who HEALS all your diseases...who REDEEMS your life from the pit...who CROWNS you with lovingkindness and compassion...who SATISFIES your years with good things... Praise the Lord!!!
PS 104 - Even the earth "is satisfied with the fruit of His works." (104:13).
PS 113 - He makes the barren woman "abide in the house"!!!! As a joyful mother of children :)
(113:9).
PS 119 - God's word sets things right! They are a "delight...conselour...reviver...strengthener...I shall run in they way of Thy commandments, For Tho wilt ENLARGE my heart," (119:24-32) I think I need my heart enlarged!! His commandments ARE righteousness (119: 172).
PS 127 - "Unless the Lord builds the house," it is done in vain! For He is able to do, even as we sleep! (127:1-2). And children -- what God says about them is so different than what the world says :) (127:3-5).
PS 132 - The Lord has chosen Zion as his resting place forever. (132:13-14) In fact, He has desired it!! Does HE rest in US?? hmmm.
and the PROVERBS...Basically their entire theme is LAW (WORD) OF THE LORD = EASE/PEACE= j e s . . . :)
...more to come
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Day 15 Reviewed
Psalm 37 - Psalm 93
More good psalms!
PS 37 - (Love the verbs in this one, notice:) trust, do good, dwell in the land, cultivate faithfulness. Delight in the Lord, and He will give the desires of your heart. Rest, Wait patiently, Cease from anger, forsake wrath, Do not fret (37:1-11).
And this one speaks to me about being at ease, "Better is the little of the righteous than the abundance of many wicked...the Lord sustains the righteous," (37:16-17).
PS 38 - Neat imagery about giving NO place to dis-ease or worry, "they devise treachery all day long. But I, like a deaf man, do not hear; and I am like a dumb man who does not open his mouth. Yes, I am like a man who does not hear, and in whose mouth are no arguments. For I hope in Thee, O Lord," (38:12-15). Sounds like even a little foreshadowing of the cross!
PS 40 - HE brought me out of the pit, HE set my feet upon a rock, HE put a new song in my mouth...and people will see and and trust because of this (40:1-3).
PS 44 - no trust in human strength or means, God saves, period (44:6).
PS 45 - I have started noticing the word righteous all over the pages of the psalms! I love the word righteous! Righteousness - such a misunderstood word too. It has nothing to do with how good a person is, or how good a person looks, acts, talks ect. It has everything to do with ones standing with God. Those who have been set at ease, made right, are righteous!!
"Thous hast loved righteousness, and hated wickedness (which has more to do then, with being separated from God, having gone ones one way) Therefore God, Thy God, has anointed Thee With the oil of joy about Thy fellows. All Thy garments are fragrant with myrrh and aloes and cassia; Out of ivory palaces stringed instruments have made Thee glad. Kings' daughters are among Thy noble ladies; At Thy right hand stands the queen in gold from Ophir," (45:6-9). Wasn't planning on writing it all out, especially the end, is so flowery. But awesome! (Wow have a come a long way in my thinking of what is awesome, ha!) The oil of joy - oil makes things flow, easy, like the anointing, like...J e s . . . Oh, I know we'll get there, but I can hardly wait!
Please read verses 13-17 too. More flowery goodness :)
PS 46 - no fear despite changing earth and mountains moving. ok. (46:1-3). Cease striving and know that I'm God, (46:10).
PS 49 - Let's revisit what Job know at the beginning!! "No man can by any means redeem his brother, Or give to God a ransom for him -- for the redemption of his soul is costly," (49:7-9). Who can pay such a price!!!!???
PS 51 - Another note, is that I feel like David somehow understood sin, and justification a little bit. Maybe I already mentioned that, but I'll say it again. "Against Thee, Thee only, have I sinned, and done what is evil in They sight," (51:4). "Restore me to the joy of Thy salvation," (51:12). And this incredible insight: "For Thou dost not delight in sacrifice, otherwise I would give it; Thou art not pleased with burnt offering. The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise," (51:16-17) He must have known God to know that God desire more than just sacrifices of offerings, but his heart!!!
PS 54 - So he says easily, "Willingly I will sacrifice to Thee," (54:6).
PS 61 - David expounds on this. He believed that praise (the offering of his heart) was his best sacrifice, "Let me dwell in Thy tent forever; Let me take refuge in the shelter of They wings...So I will sing praise to Thy name forever, That I may pay my vows day by day," (61:4,8). How cool is that?? Pay his vows by singing!!
PS 65 - David understood how/why to be NEAR (ascloseaspossible) to God! "How blessed is the one whom Thou dost choose, and bring near to Thee, To dwell in thy courts. We will be satisfied with the goodness of Thy house," (65:4).
PS 73 - Again, don't be deceived by what appears to be the "easy way," "As I saw the prosperity of the wicked...no pains in their death...body is fat...not plagued like mankind...set their mouth against the heavens...how they are destroyed in a moment," (73:3-20).
More good psalms!
PS 37 - (Love the verbs in this one, notice:) trust, do good, dwell in the land, cultivate faithfulness. Delight in the Lord, and He will give the desires of your heart. Rest, Wait patiently, Cease from anger, forsake wrath, Do not fret (37:1-11).
And this one speaks to me about being at ease, "Better is the little of the righteous than the abundance of many wicked...the Lord sustains the righteous," (37:16-17).
PS 38 - Neat imagery about giving NO place to dis-ease or worry, "they devise treachery all day long. But I, like a deaf man, do not hear; and I am like a dumb man who does not open his mouth. Yes, I am like a man who does not hear, and in whose mouth are no arguments. For I hope in Thee, O Lord," (38:12-15). Sounds like even a little foreshadowing of the cross!
PS 40 - HE brought me out of the pit, HE set my feet upon a rock, HE put a new song in my mouth...and people will see and and trust because of this (40:1-3).
PS 44 - no trust in human strength or means, God saves, period (44:6).
PS 45 - I have started noticing the word righteous all over the pages of the psalms! I love the word righteous! Righteousness - such a misunderstood word too. It has nothing to do with how good a person is, or how good a person looks, acts, talks ect. It has everything to do with ones standing with God. Those who have been set at ease, made right, are righteous!!
"Thous hast loved righteousness, and hated wickedness (which has more to do then, with being separated from God, having gone ones one way) Therefore God, Thy God, has anointed Thee With the oil of joy about Thy fellows. All Thy garments are fragrant with myrrh and aloes and cassia; Out of ivory palaces stringed instruments have made Thee glad. Kings' daughters are among Thy noble ladies; At Thy right hand stands the queen in gold from Ophir," (45:6-9). Wasn't planning on writing it all out, especially the end, is so flowery. But awesome! (Wow have a come a long way in my thinking of what is awesome, ha!) The oil of joy - oil makes things flow, easy, like the anointing, like...J e s . . . Oh, I know we'll get there, but I can hardly wait!
Please read verses 13-17 too. More flowery goodness :)
PS 46 - no fear despite changing earth and mountains moving. ok. (46:1-3). Cease striving and know that I'm God, (46:10).
PS 49 - Let's revisit what Job know at the beginning!! "No man can by any means redeem his brother, Or give to God a ransom for him -- for the redemption of his soul is costly," (49:7-9). Who can pay such a price!!!!???
PS 51 - Another note, is that I feel like David somehow understood sin, and justification a little bit. Maybe I already mentioned that, but I'll say it again. "Against Thee, Thee only, have I sinned, and done what is evil in They sight," (51:4). "Restore me to the joy of Thy salvation," (51:12). And this incredible insight: "For Thou dost not delight in sacrifice, otherwise I would give it; Thou art not pleased with burnt offering. The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise," (51:16-17) He must have known God to know that God desire more than just sacrifices of offerings, but his heart!!!
PS 54 - So he says easily, "Willingly I will sacrifice to Thee," (54:6).
PS 61 - David expounds on this. He believed that praise (the offering of his heart) was his best sacrifice, "Let me dwell in Thy tent forever; Let me take refuge in the shelter of They wings...So I will sing praise to Thy name forever, That I may pay my vows day by day," (61:4,8). How cool is that?? Pay his vows by singing!!
PS 65 - David understood how/why to be NEAR (ascloseaspossible) to God! "How blessed is the one whom Thou dost choose, and bring near to Thee, To dwell in thy courts. We will be satisfied with the goodness of Thy house," (65:4).
PS 73 - Again, don't be deceived by what appears to be the "easy way," "As I saw the prosperity of the wicked...no pains in their death...body is fat...not plagued like mankind...set their mouth against the heavens...how they are destroyed in a moment," (73:3-20).
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