Impurity clung to her inside the cover of her clothes. She refused to consider anything but the present, never expecting her impurity would be revealed. Nobody came forward with comfort - no one.
Observation
God continually warns the Judean's of what is to come if she doesn't confess her sins and turn from them. Lady Jerusalem believes that she has hidden her iniquity well enough that there is nothing to fear. In fact the iniquity has been apart of her so long, that she has grown used to it and has even forgotten all about it. By God's command Jeremiah continually is pointing her sin out, teaching her that no matter how many layers she puts over their iniquity, God still sees it all.
Now, just like they were warned, the garment that they were covering their sin with has been ripped off and their shame and guilt is there for everyone to see. No one comes to their rescue, no one covers her up; she is left alone, wallowing in despair.
Application
Although this is a sad passage, there is a part of me that rejoices at the uncovering of sin. See I know what it is like to cover up sin. I didn't even know that I was doing it. Just like Judah, people came and told me, I just didn't listen.
What was my sin? Pride. Just thinking about how sick I was breaks my heart. The day I was laid bare before God was one of the greatest days of my life. I continually cried, lamented, just like this book is entitled. I mourned over my sin, and each tear shed God used to cleanse me and restore me, just like He does with Israel. Now I'm diligent about praying that God keep me pure before Him, never trying to cover up my junk.
The truth is we all have junk, it is just that some are better at covering it up than others. But those who have their masks ripped off, those who are laid bare, are truly blessed.
Prayer
Thank You Lord for ripping off my mask. I know that in me, I would easily fall into wearing that mask again. Please guide my steps and my heart, so that I am always pure before You.
Monday, December 31, 2012
Friday, December 28, 2012
Jeremiah 44:17b-18 Walking By Faith
Back then we had plenty to eat, and no harm came to us. But ever since we stopped burning incense to the Queen of heaven and pouring out our drink offerings to her, we've not had enough of anything. Besides that, we are being finished off by war and famine.
Observation
The queen of heaven was a Babylonian title Ishtar; whose worship involved acts of immorality (Halley's Bible Handbook). Even after all the prophecies that Jeremiah had spoken had come true, the Judean's still refuse to repent and be obedient to God. They are blinded by pride and selfishness. Jeremiah is still persecuted because the Judean's only want to hear the words that will allow their sinful lifestyle to continue.
Application
I was initially dumbfounded when reading these verses, because I was thinking " how could the Judean's be so stupid". It didn't take long for the Holy Spirit to show me His truth in passages. We are all that stupid when we measure success or failure based on external circumstances. The Judean's measured success on lack of war and famine. That is not how God measures it. He very often uses difficult external circumstances to create success within in us. These verses are a great reminder to me, that whether things are going great or they are going poorly, I need to ask God for His truth and follow His direction. I am not to rely one the way things appear to me. Isaiah 11 says And He will not judge by what His eyes see, Nor make a decision by what His ears hear; But with righteousness He will judge the poor, And decide with fairness for the afflicted of the earth; this is who Jesus is and who God is making me to be.
Prayer
Father, I am so grateful that my success is not defined by external circumstances or my performance, but by Your righteousness that covers me. I ask that You be more in me, and I be less.
Observation
The queen of heaven was a Babylonian title Ishtar; whose worship involved acts of immorality (Halley's Bible Handbook). Even after all the prophecies that Jeremiah had spoken had come true, the Judean's still refuse to repent and be obedient to God. They are blinded by pride and selfishness. Jeremiah is still persecuted because the Judean's only want to hear the words that will allow their sinful lifestyle to continue.
Application
I was initially dumbfounded when reading these verses, because I was thinking " how could the Judean's be so stupid". It didn't take long for the Holy Spirit to show me His truth in passages. We are all that stupid when we measure success or failure based on external circumstances. The Judean's measured success on lack of war and famine. That is not how God measures it. He very often uses difficult external circumstances to create success within in us. These verses are a great reminder to me, that whether things are going great or they are going poorly, I need to ask God for His truth and follow His direction. I am not to rely one the way things appear to me. Isaiah 11 says And He will not judge by what His eyes see, Nor make a decision by what His ears hear; But with righteousness He will judge the poor, And decide with fairness for the afflicted of the earth; this is who Jesus is and who God is making me to be.
Prayer
Father, I am so grateful that my success is not defined by external circumstances or my performance, but by Your righteousness that covers me. I ask that You be more in me, and I be less.
Thursday, December 27, 2012
Jeremiah 42:21-22 Conditional Surrender
So today I have given you His answer, but I can see that you have no intention of obeying the Eternal your God, regardless of what He sends me to tell you. So you will surely die from war, famine, and disease in that place where you are determined to go.
Observation
The remnant left after Babylonian capture had hoped for peace, but sin and destruction continue when the official put in charge, Gedaliah, along with all in his house, as well as innocent worshippers in the city are slaughtered at the hands of Ishmael.
Those who were spared and saved are terrified of Chaldean wrath, and they are now seeking God's direction through Jeremiah. They promise Jeremiah that they will do whatever God tells them to do, good or bad. However, it is clear that they already have a plan set in their hearts and they are just looking for God's blessing over it.
Application
Conditional surrender, that is what the Judean's are offering God. Oh how I have done the same so many times. My conditional surrender sounds something like this, "Oh God, help me please, I will do anything you ask of me as long as you do this, this, and this." The problem is that we convince ourselves that we are seeking to please God, but the truth is we are just trying to get what we want through God.
I see this in ministry all the time as well, and it just breaks my heart. People are in a pit, they want out, but they want out the quick and easy way. Or they just want God to bless their sinful lifestyle or decisions, when that blessing doesn't come they leave the church. I empathize with Jeremiah's pain. I seek God in prayer in how to advise others, and after that counsel is given I watch their far fall, because it is not what they wanted. Not long after that they begin to drift away.
Prayer
Father, I know that I have used You and have broken your heart numerous times. For that, my heart saddens terribly. Please reveal if there is any remnant of that behavior left in me, and cleanse me from this lack of faith and love. Father, I lift up those who are seeking You conditionally right now. Please show them Your truth as well as Your goodness and grace to both hold and carry them through whatever trial they are facing.
Observation
The remnant left after Babylonian capture had hoped for peace, but sin and destruction continue when the official put in charge, Gedaliah, along with all in his house, as well as innocent worshippers in the city are slaughtered at the hands of Ishmael.
Those who were spared and saved are terrified of Chaldean wrath, and they are now seeking God's direction through Jeremiah. They promise Jeremiah that they will do whatever God tells them to do, good or bad. However, it is clear that they already have a plan set in their hearts and they are just looking for God's blessing over it.
Application
Conditional surrender, that is what the Judean's are offering God. Oh how I have done the same so many times. My conditional surrender sounds something like this, "Oh God, help me please, I will do anything you ask of me as long as you do this, this, and this." The problem is that we convince ourselves that we are seeking to please God, but the truth is we are just trying to get what we want through God.
I see this in ministry all the time as well, and it just breaks my heart. People are in a pit, they want out, but they want out the quick and easy way. Or they just want God to bless their sinful lifestyle or decisions, when that blessing doesn't come they leave the church. I empathize with Jeremiah's pain. I seek God in prayer in how to advise others, and after that counsel is given I watch their far fall, because it is not what they wanted. Not long after that they begin to drift away.
Prayer
Father, I know that I have used You and have broken your heart numerous times. For that, my heart saddens terribly. Please reveal if there is any remnant of that behavior left in me, and cleanse me from this lack of faith and love. Father, I lift up those who are seeking You conditionally right now. Please show them Your truth as well as Your goodness and grace to both hold and carry them through whatever trial they are facing.
Wednesday, December 26, 2012
Jeremiah 35:18-19 Obedience Pays
The Eternal, Commander of heavenly armies and God of Israel, has this message for you and your families: "Because you obeyed your ancestors Jonadab and faithfully followed his instructions for all these years, I promise that Jonodab (son of Rechab) will always have descendants who serve me"
Observation
Babylon is attacking Judean towns outside of Jerusalem. The nomadic clan known as the Rechabites have run to the the city of Jerusalem for refuge. The Rechabites are simple people, whose customs are not suited for city lifestyle. However, their faithfulness to their customs are held up as an example to Jerusalem and cause the clan to be blessed by God.
Application
God desires obedience more than sacrifice and the story of the Rechabites are an example of this desire. I was lead to reflect on why the Rechabites remained obedient to the custom of their ancestors while the rest of the Israelites didn't; what made them different? If these verses the name Jonadab in particular stands out. It seems to me that the Rechabite ancestors did an outstanding job of stressing the importance of obedience to their children and grandchildren; so much so that when the temptation to do differently came against them they were able to stand. Jonadab specifically is honored by God. That same blessing can be mine to, if I diligently train my children up in the Lord's ways.
Prayer
Father, thank You for the Rechabite example in Your word today. I long to plant those same seeds in my children. Although I am willing, I need Your Spirit to make these seeds grow, for I am nothing without You. May my children grow up in Your word and remain faithful to follow them all the days of their lives.
Observation
Babylon is attacking Judean towns outside of Jerusalem. The nomadic clan known as the Rechabites have run to the the city of Jerusalem for refuge. The Rechabites are simple people, whose customs are not suited for city lifestyle. However, their faithfulness to their customs are held up as an example to Jerusalem and cause the clan to be blessed by God.
Application
God desires obedience more than sacrifice and the story of the Rechabites are an example of this desire. I was lead to reflect on why the Rechabites remained obedient to the custom of their ancestors while the rest of the Israelites didn't; what made them different? If these verses the name Jonadab in particular stands out. It seems to me that the Rechabite ancestors did an outstanding job of stressing the importance of obedience to their children and grandchildren; so much so that when the temptation to do differently came against them they were able to stand. Jonadab specifically is honored by God. That same blessing can be mine to, if I diligently train my children up in the Lord's ways.
Prayer
Father, thank You for the Rechabite example in Your word today. I long to plant those same seeds in my children. Although I am willing, I need Your Spirit to make these seeds grow, for I am nothing without You. May my children grow up in Your word and remain faithful to follow them all the days of their lives.
Friday, December 21, 2012
Psalm 4:3-4 Anger
You can be sure of this: The Lord set apart the godly for himself. The Lord will answer when I call to him. Don’t sin by letting anger control you. Think about it overnight and remain silent.
Observation
What things in life can you be sure of? Death and the sun coming up each day. But God tells the believer to add to his/her list to be sure that God sets thems apart. Being set apart comes with certain rewards, one of which is listed right here "The Lord will answer when I call to him". God hears all prayer, but only promises to answer the believer. It doesn't mean he won't answer the unbeliever, but the promise is for His children.
David meditates on these promises so that anger will not control him. He is being persecuted and ridiculed, but instead of focusing on the injustice, he focuses on God.
Application
Anger is a powerful force, once planted it takes root quickly and can easily lead to sin. I struggle with anger when injustice is prevailed upon me. One time God reminded me that I too was unjust, that I too had done evil in His sight. I was broken when I realized the bitterness that I had sown in my own heart, when I was just as much of a sinner as those who I had hurt me,
Now I know to get that anger out immediately. God shows me how in these verses...turn my thoughts over to Him.
Prayer
Father, I praise You that I can run to You; You are a mighty shelter and refuge for the weak. Oh Lord and I am weak. Father, I praise You that my coming to You is not dependent upon my own righteousness, but solely and completely upon You, and who You are.
Observation
What things in life can you be sure of? Death and the sun coming up each day. But God tells the believer to add to his/her list to be sure that God sets thems apart. Being set apart comes with certain rewards, one of which is listed right here "The Lord will answer when I call to him". God hears all prayer, but only promises to answer the believer. It doesn't mean he won't answer the unbeliever, but the promise is for His children.
David meditates on these promises so that anger will not control him. He is being persecuted and ridiculed, but instead of focusing on the injustice, he focuses on God.
Application
Anger is a powerful force, once planted it takes root quickly and can easily lead to sin. I struggle with anger when injustice is prevailed upon me. One time God reminded me that I too was unjust, that I too had done evil in His sight. I was broken when I realized the bitterness that I had sown in my own heart, when I was just as much of a sinner as those who I had hurt me,
Now I know to get that anger out immediately. God shows me how in these verses...turn my thoughts over to Him.
Prayer
Father, I praise You that I can run to You; You are a mighty shelter and refuge for the weak. Oh Lord and I am weak. Father, I praise You that my coming to You is not dependent upon my own righteousness, but solely and completely upon You, and who You are.
Wednesday, December 19, 2012
Psalm 3:1-2 Our God Is Greater
O Lord , how my adversaries have increased! Many are rising up against me. Many are saying of my soul, "There is no deliverance for him in God." Selah.
Observation
We often feel like the world is against us, but for David, the world really was against him. The soon to be King, was hiding in caves and running for his life; everyday could be his last. He sees the adversaries before him and becomes scared, but then he looks up and sees the God that goes before him and realizes that he has nothing to fear. It is God that causes him to awaken everyday, God who protects him in battle, and God who blesses him.
Application
I have been through times in my spiritual walk, where on the outside it looked like God was mad at me because I was falling apart. Even if it weren't true, it certainly felt like everyone was mocking me. But God sustained me through those times, then once through them, He blessed me beyond all that I could hope for or imagine. The biggest blessing I have ever received is a closer and deeper walk with Him through it. David knows who His God is because God is drawing David closer while sustaining him in trial. Trials have also caused me to know and love God in a deeper way, so I'm grateful for the heartache and humiliation.
Prayer
Father, thank You for moving heaven and earth to draw me deeper into You. I praise You for the trials and heartache. Continue to saturate me in You, I want to fall more in love with You each day.
Observation
We often feel like the world is against us, but for David, the world really was against him. The soon to be King, was hiding in caves and running for his life; everyday could be his last. He sees the adversaries before him and becomes scared, but then he looks up and sees the God that goes before him and realizes that he has nothing to fear. It is God that causes him to awaken everyday, God who protects him in battle, and God who blesses him.
Application
I have been through times in my spiritual walk, where on the outside it looked like God was mad at me because I was falling apart. Even if it weren't true, it certainly felt like everyone was mocking me. But God sustained me through those times, then once through them, He blessed me beyond all that I could hope for or imagine. The biggest blessing I have ever received is a closer and deeper walk with Him through it. David knows who His God is because God is drawing David closer while sustaining him in trial. Trials have also caused me to know and love God in a deeper way, so I'm grateful for the heartache and humiliation.
Prayer
Father, thank You for moving heaven and earth to draw me deeper into You. I praise You for the trials and heartache. Continue to saturate me in You, I want to fall more in love with You each day.
Tuesday, December 18, 2012
Jeremiah 34:4-5 Honor Your Leaders
Yet hear the word of the Lord , O Zedekiah king of Judah! Thus says the L ord concerning you, 'You will not die by the sword. You will die in peace; and as spices were burned for your fathers, the former kings who were before you, so they will burn spices for you; and they will lament for you, "Alas, lord!"' For I have spoken the word," declares the Lord .
Observation
Zedekiah was a terrible king for Jerusalem. He did not follow the ways of The Lord. He even oppressed Jeremiah, punishing him for speaking the truth. He never listened to God's warnings. Yet God still shows himself merciful to Zedekiah. He promises that Zedekiah will be mourned, and die in peace. I imagine when Zedekiah was taken captive, those words must have brought incredible comfort to him. And these were the words that came from a prophet he despised and a God he rejected. God's grace and mercy is so very humbling.
Application
I'm struck by the fact that God shows extreme grace and mercy to our leaders, but we don't. God who has every reason to hold a grudge and every reason to reject, does neither. Yet, when we don't agree with a leaders decision, we dishonor our leader, and many times we wrap God's name around those actions.
I don't agree with many of the decisions the president has made, in fact, my heart breaks over some of those decisions frequently. However, he is still president, and still deserves to be honored as such.
Prayer
Father, I'm sorry for the times I have dishonored those who are leaders. From the president to my own husband, I have been critical. Please forgive me. Help me to be honoring with word and deed to those You have put over me. I know ultimately I will honor You if I honor them.
Observation
Zedekiah was a terrible king for Jerusalem. He did not follow the ways of The Lord. He even oppressed Jeremiah, punishing him for speaking the truth. He never listened to God's warnings. Yet God still shows himself merciful to Zedekiah. He promises that Zedekiah will be mourned, and die in peace. I imagine when Zedekiah was taken captive, those words must have brought incredible comfort to him. And these were the words that came from a prophet he despised and a God he rejected. God's grace and mercy is so very humbling.
Application
I'm struck by the fact that God shows extreme grace and mercy to our leaders, but we don't. God who has every reason to hold a grudge and every reason to reject, does neither. Yet, when we don't agree with a leaders decision, we dishonor our leader, and many times we wrap God's name around those actions.
I don't agree with many of the decisions the president has made, in fact, my heart breaks over some of those decisions frequently. However, he is still president, and still deserves to be honored as such.
Prayer
Father, I'm sorry for the times I have dishonored those who are leaders. From the president to my own husband, I have been critical. Please forgive me. Help me to be honoring with word and deed to those You have put over me. I know ultimately I will honor You if I honor them.
Saturday, December 15, 2012
Jeremiah 33:25-26 God Keeps His Promises
But again, this is what the Eternal promises: "Just as I am not about to stop ruling the universe with fixed laws so that they day and night become confused, I will likewise keep My promises to the descendants of Jacob and David, My servant; I will not reject them. I will not forget the covenant I made with David that one of his descendants will rule over the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. I will restore their fortunes and have mercy on them.
Observation
Imagine the scene as this message to Jeremiah unfolds. Jeremiah is held prisoner by the king of Judah. He is shackled and surrounded by guards in the kings court. Meanwhile Jerusalem lay under siege of the Chaldeans. Each day that passes by Jerusalem is losing hope of escaping the ever tightening grip of Babylon. The king, is taking out the his frustration on Jeremiah. See, Jeremiah prophesied that such things would come to pass because of the immense wickedness and rebellion that God's chosen had embraced.
In humiliation Jeremiah sits, and a message of hope comes to him. God reminds Jeremiah that this is just a moment. One day He will bring His people back, they will have peace and stability. They will be ruled by one of David's descendants; they will have a new king who will be a Faithful Shepherd. Then God sends two more messages to Jeremiah sharing the certainty of His promise to the children of Israel. This promise is the rope that Jeremiah and those for generations to come will hold on to.
Application
When life gets tough, we need reassurance of God's promise. Yesterday 18 children were shot at an elementary school in CT. Such tragedy! We need reassurance of God's promise. This week a man carved a pentagram in his sons back, because demons told him to. We need reassurance of God's promise. A little boy in Elena's class was diagnosed with inoperable brain cancer. We need reassurance of God's promise.
In a little over a week, we will be celebrating one of God's most incredible and world changing promise come to fruition, the birth of Christ. God reassured Jeremiah in the midst of incredible uncertainty, God reassures us today the same way. I am choosing to allow tragedy to create a deeper longing for Christ in my heart. Because there is another promises I am looking forward too, the coming of Christ. God gives us reassurance that His promises are sure, hold fast to them my friends.
Prayer
Father, thank You for Your promises and how they give us hope. Thank You for reminding me that I can hold on to Your promises, because they are solid and sure. I pray for the families who lost their sweet babies, I pray for the parents whose children are suffering in the hospital and those dealing with extreme loss and tragedy; please surround them with Your hope and comfort, that through terrible tragedy they would experience a deeper relationship with the One who always holds, loves, and cares for them. May Your goodness be seen in the midst of such atrocities.
Observation
Imagine the scene as this message to Jeremiah unfolds. Jeremiah is held prisoner by the king of Judah. He is shackled and surrounded by guards in the kings court. Meanwhile Jerusalem lay under siege of the Chaldeans. Each day that passes by Jerusalem is losing hope of escaping the ever tightening grip of Babylon. The king, is taking out the his frustration on Jeremiah. See, Jeremiah prophesied that such things would come to pass because of the immense wickedness and rebellion that God's chosen had embraced.
In humiliation Jeremiah sits, and a message of hope comes to him. God reminds Jeremiah that this is just a moment. One day He will bring His people back, they will have peace and stability. They will be ruled by one of David's descendants; they will have a new king who will be a Faithful Shepherd. Then God sends two more messages to Jeremiah sharing the certainty of His promise to the children of Israel. This promise is the rope that Jeremiah and those for generations to come will hold on to.
Application
When life gets tough, we need reassurance of God's promise. Yesterday 18 children were shot at an elementary school in CT. Such tragedy! We need reassurance of God's promise. This week a man carved a pentagram in his sons back, because demons told him to. We need reassurance of God's promise. A little boy in Elena's class was diagnosed with inoperable brain cancer. We need reassurance of God's promise.
In a little over a week, we will be celebrating one of God's most incredible and world changing promise come to fruition, the birth of Christ. God reassured Jeremiah in the midst of incredible uncertainty, God reassures us today the same way. I am choosing to allow tragedy to create a deeper longing for Christ in my heart. Because there is another promises I am looking forward too, the coming of Christ. God gives us reassurance that His promises are sure, hold fast to them my friends.
Prayer
Father, thank You for Your promises and how they give us hope. Thank You for reminding me that I can hold on to Your promises, because they are solid and sure. I pray for the families who lost their sweet babies, I pray for the parents whose children are suffering in the hospital and those dealing with extreme loss and tragedy; please surround them with Your hope and comfort, that through terrible tragedy they would experience a deeper relationship with the One who always holds, loves, and cares for them. May Your goodness be seen in the midst of such atrocities.
Friday, December 14, 2012
Jeremiah 32:39 Why do we worship God?
I will unite them behind a single desire and purpose: to revere and worship Me forever for their own good and the good of all who will come after them.
Observation
The Israelites were not short on worship, they were short on wisdom. They poured out offerings to the wrong gods. They never revered and truly worshipped the One and Only God. God promises that after the exile He will bring His people back and they be united under one single purpose; to revere and worship Him. But He adds an interesting tag at the end, He says it is for our good and the good of those who follow that we do.
Why is worshipping Him for our good, but not worshipping others? Is it because He can take away our life? He certainly can, but I don't think that is necessarily why it is for our good. I believe it is for our good, because if our mind is on Him, then all of our being will follow Him and His ways, and His ways are good! We are naturally selfish and sinful creatures, it is imperative that we get our minds off of ourselves and on to Him, so that His life can infuse us.
Application
I must confess, when I think of worshipping another, I think that I am doing something good for them and not necessarily for myself. But God points out this distortion through His word this morning. Worshipping God is good for me and it is good for you. Moreover, it is good for my children to see me worship God. They may struggle with selfishness and the flesh now, but seeds of worshipping the One True God are being planted in their lives.
Prayer
Father, You are Everlasting and Gracious. You are the Great Commander of Heavens Armies. You give strength to the weak, sight to the blind, and loose the chains of the prisoners. There is no one like You. I choose You and set my heart and mind to worship You all of my days. May my children choose and do the same. Bless You Papa.
Observation
The Israelites were not short on worship, they were short on wisdom. They poured out offerings to the wrong gods. They never revered and truly worshipped the One and Only God. God promises that after the exile He will bring His people back and they be united under one single purpose; to revere and worship Him. But He adds an interesting tag at the end, He says it is for our good and the good of those who follow that we do.
Why is worshipping Him for our good, but not worshipping others? Is it because He can take away our life? He certainly can, but I don't think that is necessarily why it is for our good. I believe it is for our good, because if our mind is on Him, then all of our being will follow Him and His ways, and His ways are good! We are naturally selfish and sinful creatures, it is imperative that we get our minds off of ourselves and on to Him, so that His life can infuse us.
Application
I must confess, when I think of worshipping another, I think that I am doing something good for them and not necessarily for myself. But God points out this distortion through His word this morning. Worshipping God is good for me and it is good for you. Moreover, it is good for my children to see me worship God. They may struggle with selfishness and the flesh now, but seeds of worshipping the One True God are being planted in their lives.
Prayer
Father, You are Everlasting and Gracious. You are the Great Commander of Heavens Armies. You give strength to the weak, sight to the blind, and loose the chains of the prisoners. There is no one like You. I choose You and set my heart and mind to worship You all of my days. May my children choose and do the same. Bless You Papa.
Thursday, December 13, 2012
Luke 1:66 Everyone Has A Plan For You
People were certain that God's hand was on this child, and they wondered what sort of person John would turn out to be when he became a man.
Observation
Already John's birthday didn't fit any normal circumstances. First an Angel of the Lord tells Zacharias that they will have a son. Then John is born to Zacharias and Elizabeth when they are too old to expect a child. The abnormalities continue when Elizabeth and Zacharias shake up the community by choosing the name John for the child instead of a name in their family. All of these shake ups cause people to question and set expectations of who John would become.
The bible doesn't really tell us what is what like for John to grow up in a community where his birth lead to speculation and expectation, but I can imagine it would have been a challenge. John obviously rises to the occasion with the power of the Holy Spirit, but I think we would be remiss if we don't stop and think about the challenges he faced trying to please God, when those around him had agendas for his life.
Application
I have no doubt that when Jesus was growing up that He faced the same challenges as John. Why do I believe that? Because the bible tells me that Jesus faced the same temptations that you and I face. We all hit a point where we have to make a choice to either be who others say we are or who Christ says we are. You can't say that you define who you are, because it is the influences around you that really define you, but you can certainly choose what will influence you.
For most of my life, I have tried to meet the expectations of others...EXHAUSTING! What I have found is that I work best when I'm just being obedient to Christ. But I'm comforted with knowing that both John and Jesus had to fight the temptation to please others instead of God and they overcame. The same Spirit that lives in them lives in me!
I think it is normal to have expectations for our children. As they grow up we get excited about all the possibilities of who they could become. As a parent, however, I need to make sure that my children know that pleasing God and following His plan is WAY MORE IMPORTANT than following my plan.
Prayer
Father, thank You for Your great plan for me and for my children. Thank You for giving me Your Spirit and helping me resist the temptation to please others above You. You are amazing! Father, please help me to hold on loosely to my own expectations and plans for Devin and Elena. Your plans are greater and I want them to always seek to please You above all.
Observation
Already John's birthday didn't fit any normal circumstances. First an Angel of the Lord tells Zacharias that they will have a son. Then John is born to Zacharias and Elizabeth when they are too old to expect a child. The abnormalities continue when Elizabeth and Zacharias shake up the community by choosing the name John for the child instead of a name in their family. All of these shake ups cause people to question and set expectations of who John would become.
The bible doesn't really tell us what is what like for John to grow up in a community where his birth lead to speculation and expectation, but I can imagine it would have been a challenge. John obviously rises to the occasion with the power of the Holy Spirit, but I think we would be remiss if we don't stop and think about the challenges he faced trying to please God, when those around him had agendas for his life.
Application
I have no doubt that when Jesus was growing up that He faced the same challenges as John. Why do I believe that? Because the bible tells me that Jesus faced the same temptations that you and I face. We all hit a point where we have to make a choice to either be who others say we are or who Christ says we are. You can't say that you define who you are, because it is the influences around you that really define you, but you can certainly choose what will influence you.
For most of my life, I have tried to meet the expectations of others...EXHAUSTING! What I have found is that I work best when I'm just being obedient to Christ. But I'm comforted with knowing that both John and Jesus had to fight the temptation to please others instead of God and they overcame. The same Spirit that lives in them lives in me!
I think it is normal to have expectations for our children. As they grow up we get excited about all the possibilities of who they could become. As a parent, however, I need to make sure that my children know that pleasing God and following His plan is WAY MORE IMPORTANT than following my plan.
Prayer
Father, thank You for Your great plan for me and for my children. Thank You for giving me Your Spirit and helping me resist the temptation to please others above You. You are amazing! Father, please help me to hold on loosely to my own expectations and plans for Devin and Elena. Your plans are greater and I want them to always seek to please You above all.
Tuesday, December 11, 2012
Jeremiah 31:2-3, 9 Coming Back Home
My people who survived the sword found grace as they wandered in the wilderness. when Israel went in search for rest, I appeared to them far away and said: "I have loved you with an everlasting love-out of faithfulness I have drawn you close......Listen, as they come home weeping and repenting, praying for direction, pleading mercy as I bring them back. In that day I will lead them beside quiet streams of water and take them upon a straight path where they will not stumble. Why? Because I am Israel's Father, and Ephraim is My first born.
Observation
Judah is now under siege by Babylon. All that God has warned of through Jeremiah is coming to pass. The people of Israel are soon to see their sin and repent. Their wandering will give them new insight and they will find grace there. They find His grace when they have lost everything. In the light of His grace they realize that they don't deserve to come back home, they don't deserve for Him to love them. They humble themselves and say "I was wrong, I sinned against You God".
Yet it was God who was drawing them all along, it is His everlasting love for them that has held them even in the wilderness. When they finally see His love and submit to it,
God gives them the sweetest gift of all....peace; He quiets their soul. He refreshes and heals them, from then on each step they take is with Him.
What incredible encouragement this must have been to Jeremiah, who had only been given bad news up to this point. This truth will be an anchor for generations to come.
Application
This is my own story. When did I find Christ? When all that I wanted was ripped from me, when everything I touched turn to ash, when I was rejected and ridiculed, when I knew without a shadow of a doubt that I was lost; lost in the wilderness.
As it turns out, I was always lost, I just didn't know it. Just like Israel, my life of sin hadn't gotten bad enough for me to change. But God's grace found me in the wilderness and showed me what I had been doing to myself and to Him. In horror of what I saw, I cried out to Him. His promise of quiet streams and a straight path are sure, I am living proof. There are times when my heart is disquieted and my foot unsteady, but He is always there, ready to quiet my soul and help me take the next step.
Prayer
Father, I praise You for Your everlasting love. I praise You for drawing me, beckoning me to come to You. I praise You that I didn't have to clean up or figure out the next step. You have always been there, even when I couldn't see You. I am always home with You!
Observation
Judah is now under siege by Babylon. All that God has warned of through Jeremiah is coming to pass. The people of Israel are soon to see their sin and repent. Their wandering will give them new insight and they will find grace there. They find His grace when they have lost everything. In the light of His grace they realize that they don't deserve to come back home, they don't deserve for Him to love them. They humble themselves and say "I was wrong, I sinned against You God".
Yet it was God who was drawing them all along, it is His everlasting love for them that has held them even in the wilderness. When they finally see His love and submit to it,
God gives them the sweetest gift of all....peace; He quiets their soul. He refreshes and heals them, from then on each step they take is with Him.
What incredible encouragement this must have been to Jeremiah, who had only been given bad news up to this point. This truth will be an anchor for generations to come.
Application
This is my own story. When did I find Christ? When all that I wanted was ripped from me, when everything I touched turn to ash, when I was rejected and ridiculed, when I knew without a shadow of a doubt that I was lost; lost in the wilderness.
As it turns out, I was always lost, I just didn't know it. Just like Israel, my life of sin hadn't gotten bad enough for me to change. But God's grace found me in the wilderness and showed me what I had been doing to myself and to Him. In horror of what I saw, I cried out to Him. His promise of quiet streams and a straight path are sure, I am living proof. There are times when my heart is disquieted and my foot unsteady, but He is always there, ready to quiet my soul and help me take the next step.
Prayer
Father, I praise You for Your everlasting love. I praise You for drawing me, beckoning me to come to You. I praise You that I didn't have to clean up or figure out the next step. You have always been there, even when I couldn't see You. I am always home with You!
Monday, December 10, 2012
Psalm 2:7-9, 12b Ransom for many, Lord of all!
I am telling all of you the truth. I have heard the Eternal's decree. He said clearly to me, "You are my Son. Today I have become your Father. The nations shall be yours for the asking and the entire earth will belong to you. They are yours to crush with an iron scepter, yours to shatter like fragile clay pots.".....but blessings await all who trust in Him. They will find God a gentle refuge.
Observation
Psalm 2 describes the rebellion of nations and the pride of people. Arrogantly nations mock God, they don't think God is going to do anything about it and they don't think there will be consequences for their actions. But God sends Jesus. He sends Jesus as both the ransom of many and The Lord of all!
Psalm 2 describes 2 natures of our King; one is just and the other is gentle. Those who don't trust God will never know the gentle side of God, not because God isn't gentle with them, but because their eyes are not open to what God is doing around them. They will instead only know His justice.
Application
It is hard for me to think about the wrath of God. I like to only dwell on His goodness and grace. But if I limit my understanding of Him to just the feel good stuff, then I am missing out on truly knowing Him.
God is just, and there are consequences for sin. However, God is also good and for His children, He mixes mercy with His justice; He disciplines us, but only for our good.
Prayer
Father, I confess it is hard for me to see Your wrath, yet countless times I have seen You show mercy when I or others didn't deserve it. Your ways are so much higher than my own, but I want to know You more.
Observation
Psalm 2 describes the rebellion of nations and the pride of people. Arrogantly nations mock God, they don't think God is going to do anything about it and they don't think there will be consequences for their actions. But God sends Jesus. He sends Jesus as both the ransom of many and The Lord of all!
Psalm 2 describes 2 natures of our King; one is just and the other is gentle. Those who don't trust God will never know the gentle side of God, not because God isn't gentle with them, but because their eyes are not open to what God is doing around them. They will instead only know His justice.
Application
It is hard for me to think about the wrath of God. I like to only dwell on His goodness and grace. But if I limit my understanding of Him to just the feel good stuff, then I am missing out on truly knowing Him.
God is just, and there are consequences for sin. However, God is also good and for His children, He mixes mercy with His justice; He disciplines us, but only for our good.
Prayer
Father, I confess it is hard for me to see Your wrath, yet countless times I have seen You show mercy when I or others didn't deserve it. Your ways are so much higher than my own, but I want to know You more.
Sunday, December 9, 2012
Luke 1:46-50 Blessed Among Women
My soul lifts up the Lord! My spirit celebrates God, my Liberator! For though I'm God's humble servant , God has noticed me. Now and forever, I will be considered blessed by all generations. For the Mighty One has done great things for me; holy is God's name! From generation to generation, God's lovingkindness endures for those who revere Him.
Observation
Mary has had some amazing encounters. She has been visited by an angel and has been greeted by her cousin with blessings for the child that she will bear. This is a song of worship; Mary just can't contain her gratefulness and excitement. Mary understands that she doesn't deserve this gift and that people around her could list a dozen reasons why she shouldn't be the mother of Christ. But Instead of listening to those thoughts, she praises God for using the humblest of servants to complete His plan.
Mary knows that she is blessed. Where others might have been afraid of what the town people, her parents, or even Joseph would say, Mary can only see the great things that God has done for her. Mary has extreme faith and hope as she looks to the future. She knows that even if those around her can't see it now, she is blessed and will be called blessed by all generations.
Application
I had to ask myself when reading this scripture if I would have rejoiced the way that Mary did, or would I have complained about the opinions others had of me? It is sad to say, but I think I would have complained. My history certainly says I would. I can't say that I like it much when people are upset with me and have a low opinion of me. It has taken me a long time to not change who I am to suit people. Now I need to stop complaining when they don't like me. I want to be like Mary, and see how I am blessed among women, look to the future and proclaim His greatness towards me in faith.
Prayer
Father, You have done great things for me. I have nothing that I can boast of in myself. Please forgive me for complaining when things get hard, I limit my thinking with those complaints and can't see how incredibly blessed I am to have You as my Liberating King. Thank You for choosing me, including me, and loving me.
Observation
Mary has had some amazing encounters. She has been visited by an angel and has been greeted by her cousin with blessings for the child that she will bear. This is a song of worship; Mary just can't contain her gratefulness and excitement. Mary understands that she doesn't deserve this gift and that people around her could list a dozen reasons why she shouldn't be the mother of Christ. But Instead of listening to those thoughts, she praises God for using the humblest of servants to complete His plan.
Mary knows that she is blessed. Where others might have been afraid of what the town people, her parents, or even Joseph would say, Mary can only see the great things that God has done for her. Mary has extreme faith and hope as she looks to the future. She knows that even if those around her can't see it now, she is blessed and will be called blessed by all generations.
Application
I had to ask myself when reading this scripture if I would have rejoiced the way that Mary did, or would I have complained about the opinions others had of me? It is sad to say, but I think I would have complained. My history certainly says I would. I can't say that I like it much when people are upset with me and have a low opinion of me. It has taken me a long time to not change who I am to suit people. Now I need to stop complaining when they don't like me. I want to be like Mary, and see how I am blessed among women, look to the future and proclaim His greatness towards me in faith.
Prayer
Father, You have done great things for me. I have nothing that I can boast of in myself. Please forgive me for complaining when things get hard, I limit my thinking with those complaints and can't see how incredibly blessed I am to have You as my Liberating King. Thank You for choosing me, including me, and loving me.
Saturday, December 8, 2012
Psalm 1 Promises for the Righteous
God's blessings follow you and await you at every turn: when you don't follow the advice of those who delight in wicked schemes, when you avoid sin's highways, when judgement and sarcasm beckon you, but you refuse. For you, the Eternal's word is your happiness. It's our focus from dusk to dawn. You are like a tree, planted by flowing cool streams of water that never run dry. Your fruit ripens in its times; your leaves never fade or curl in the summer sun. No matter what you do, you prosper.
For those who sin, the story is different. They are like a fallen husk of wheat, tossed by an open wind, left deserted and alone. In the end the wicked fall in judgement; the guilty will be separated from the innocent. Their road suddenly will end in death, yet the journey of the righteous has been charted by the Eternal.
Observation
God gives several promises to both the righteous and wicked alike. His word is filled with these promises. But Psalm one seems to take all those promises and condense it down to this short black and white picture.
God say's it this way "make Me your center, make Me your happiness, and here is what you can count on..."
Here is what He promises to those who are for Him:
1. His blessings will follow you
2. His blessings wait for you to arrive
3. You will not be shaken
4. You will always be instant to what God wants to do in you and through you. God says your fruit will ripen at the right time. So there will be times when you or others will not see a specific fruit in your life, but God will ripen that fruit in its specific season.
5. You never fade, you just get brighter and brighter. I can think of several older Christians who are a bright light to me. They are proof of this promise!
6. No matter what you do, you will prosper. That's a pretty amazing promise. We an see the same promise in Romans 8:28, God is working all things together for good for those who love Him (have made Him the center) and have been called according to His purpose.
7. God will chart your journey. You don't have to worry about figuring out the next step because God has the map; He knows. When you think of writing your story, whose hand would you like on the pen? I can think of no one greater than the sovereign God of the universe!
Application
Psalm 1 is great encouragement to stay in God's word and continue seeking His face. Several years ago I chose to make Christ the center of my life. Is He? Well there are certainly areas where I wonder if He truly is, but this scripture reminds me that His promise is sure and that the areas where I doubt He is the center because I struggle so, are the ones where the fruit has not ripened yet.
I love the beginning where it says that God's blessings follow me and wait for me. This translation can only be found in the Voice, the other versions say "blessed is". Both scriptures mean the same thing, but the Voice paints a beautiful picture of what God is doing for me everyday. The truth is I rarely turn around to recall blessings, and I'm not expectant for the blessings are to come my way tomorrow. But I should be. A great way for me to apply this specific portion of scripture is to make a list of blessings at the end of every day, then praying each morning that God open my eyes to the blessings He has waiting for me in the day, and in all of that THANK HIM!
Prayer
Father, what sweet encouragement! Thank You for yesterday and today's blessings. Thank You for charting my course, for being the living water that nourishes my soul. Thank You for prospering me and making my light grow brighter and brighter. Thank You for giving me a passion for Your word. I am wicked without You, but Your robe of righteousness covers me. I Love You!
For those who sin, the story is different. They are like a fallen husk of wheat, tossed by an open wind, left deserted and alone. In the end the wicked fall in judgement; the guilty will be separated from the innocent. Their road suddenly will end in death, yet the journey of the righteous has been charted by the Eternal.
Observation
God gives several promises to both the righteous and wicked alike. His word is filled with these promises. But Psalm one seems to take all those promises and condense it down to this short black and white picture.
God say's it this way "make Me your center, make Me your happiness, and here is what you can count on..."
Here is what He promises to those who are for Him:
1. His blessings will follow you
2. His blessings wait for you to arrive
3. You will not be shaken
4. You will always be instant to what God wants to do in you and through you. God says your fruit will ripen at the right time. So there will be times when you or others will not see a specific fruit in your life, but God will ripen that fruit in its specific season.
5. You never fade, you just get brighter and brighter. I can think of several older Christians who are a bright light to me. They are proof of this promise!
6. No matter what you do, you will prosper. That's a pretty amazing promise. We an see the same promise in Romans 8:28, God is working all things together for good for those who love Him (have made Him the center) and have been called according to His purpose.
7. God will chart your journey. You don't have to worry about figuring out the next step because God has the map; He knows. When you think of writing your story, whose hand would you like on the pen? I can think of no one greater than the sovereign God of the universe!
Application
Psalm 1 is great encouragement to stay in God's word and continue seeking His face. Several years ago I chose to make Christ the center of my life. Is He? Well there are certainly areas where I wonder if He truly is, but this scripture reminds me that His promise is sure and that the areas where I doubt He is the center because I struggle so, are the ones where the fruit has not ripened yet.
I love the beginning where it says that God's blessings follow me and wait for me. This translation can only be found in the Voice, the other versions say "blessed is". Both scriptures mean the same thing, but the Voice paints a beautiful picture of what God is doing for me everyday. The truth is I rarely turn around to recall blessings, and I'm not expectant for the blessings are to come my way tomorrow. But I should be. A great way for me to apply this specific portion of scripture is to make a list of blessings at the end of every day, then praying each morning that God open my eyes to the blessings He has waiting for me in the day, and in all of that THANK HIM!
Prayer
Father, what sweet encouragement! Thank You for yesterday and today's blessings. Thank You for charting my course, for being the living water that nourishes my soul. Thank You for prospering me and making my light grow brighter and brighter. Thank You for giving me a passion for Your word. I am wicked without You, but Your robe of righteousness covers me. I Love You!
Friday, December 7, 2012
2 Timothy 4:5 Stay The Course
But you, be sober in all things, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry
Observation
Paul is exhorting Timothy to keep on preaching, encouraging, and reproving. To not look for opportune times, but to just do it. He tells Timothy that people won't want to hear it, they will want to run to the teachers and leaders that approve their lifestyle. But Paul shouts "STAY THE COURSE TIMOTHY!"
What I find interesting is that Paul tells Timothy to endure the hardships, not celebrate in them, not have a great attitude in them, not act like they are not there at all, but endure; hold on. He reminds Timothy of the mission he has been called to and encourages him to stay the course.
Application
I cried when I read this word today. We are going through hardships at the Flask house. I keep telling myself that things could be worse and remind myself of the many, many, blessings I have. Yet I'm weary. When I get to this point I start to get disappointed with myself which only makes things worse. This morning, I didn't want to get up, so I prayed and told God how I was feeling and asked Him to encourage me. And here His word is, right on time. He is telling me "stay the course Hope, press on!". He is reassuring me that I'm on the right track, that He is in my corner, that Has a mission for me, and to not worry about the things falling apart around me. Because things will always fall apart around me. People will get tired of me telling them to seek God, to seek Him in His word, people will get frustrated with my failures, cars will brake down, money will run out, my body will fail, but press on to the prize!
Prayer
Father thank You so much for this sweet encouragement today. I'm so grateful that You allow me to do Your work with You. I know You don't need me, I'm sure I slow things down quite a bit, and I'm messy, but You let me be apart of it anyway. You enjoy spending time with me and Father, I enjoy spending time with You!
Observation
Paul is exhorting Timothy to keep on preaching, encouraging, and reproving. To not look for opportune times, but to just do it. He tells Timothy that people won't want to hear it, they will want to run to the teachers and leaders that approve their lifestyle. But Paul shouts "STAY THE COURSE TIMOTHY!"
What I find interesting is that Paul tells Timothy to endure the hardships, not celebrate in them, not have a great attitude in them, not act like they are not there at all, but endure; hold on. He reminds Timothy of the mission he has been called to and encourages him to stay the course.
Application
I cried when I read this word today. We are going through hardships at the Flask house. I keep telling myself that things could be worse and remind myself of the many, many, blessings I have. Yet I'm weary. When I get to this point I start to get disappointed with myself which only makes things worse. This morning, I didn't want to get up, so I prayed and told God how I was feeling and asked Him to encourage me. And here His word is, right on time. He is telling me "stay the course Hope, press on!". He is reassuring me that I'm on the right track, that He is in my corner, that Has a mission for me, and to not worry about the things falling apart around me. Because things will always fall apart around me. People will get tired of me telling them to seek God, to seek Him in His word, people will get frustrated with my failures, cars will brake down, money will run out, my body will fail, but press on to the prize!
Prayer
Father thank You so much for this sweet encouragement today. I'm so grateful that You allow me to do Your work with You. I know You don't need me, I'm sure I slow things down quite a bit, and I'm messy, but You let me be apart of it anyway. You enjoy spending time with me and Father, I enjoy spending time with You!
Monday, December 3, 2012
Jeremiah 23:22 False Prophets
If only they had stood in My presence and heard My voice, then they would have spoken My words to My people! They would have turned this nation back from its evil ways and evil deeds.
Observation
The false prophets did the following according to chapter 23:
Scattered God's flock
Failed at giving His sheep care
They were negligent
They pawned their words off as God's
They inspired and encouraged people to sin
They promised peace for acts of evil, even though God promises destruction for evil.
They never asked God what He wanted, they never paid attention to His word, they never sought the Lord's presence!
Because of that they have broken God's heart. He says in verse 9 that deep in His chest, God's heart is broken. There is nothing worse then breaking the heart of God, which by the way, I know I have done.
Application
No one ever thinks of themselves as a false prophet, yet the bible promises us that more and more false prophets will appear. These verses offer guidelines on how to see if you are really caring for God's people or just for yourself. I understand the difficulty. People don't want to hear that their choices are leading them on a path of destruction. They want to hear peace and prosperity. Jeremiah is the only brave one that stands up and even he considers the message a burden. This is why James tells us that not many of us should want to become teachers.
It all comes down to pleasing God or people. I know in me I will choose people every time if I don't seek the presence of God passionately! I don't want God to use an "if only" statement when He talks of me.
Prayer
Father, I'm so grateful that Your presence aligns me with Your will. I confess that I am weak minded and unfaithful, but You are greater in me each day. I choose to please You, to seek Your presence and will above all else. Please help me to lead others to You, speaking Your truth even when it feels like a burden. I love You!
Observation
The false prophets did the following according to chapter 23:
Scattered God's flock
Failed at giving His sheep care
They were negligent
They pawned their words off as God's
They inspired and encouraged people to sin
They promised peace for acts of evil, even though God promises destruction for evil.
They never asked God what He wanted, they never paid attention to His word, they never sought the Lord's presence!
Because of that they have broken God's heart. He says in verse 9 that deep in His chest, God's heart is broken. There is nothing worse then breaking the heart of God, which by the way, I know I have done.
Application
No one ever thinks of themselves as a false prophet, yet the bible promises us that more and more false prophets will appear. These verses offer guidelines on how to see if you are really caring for God's people or just for yourself. I understand the difficulty. People don't want to hear that their choices are leading them on a path of destruction. They want to hear peace and prosperity. Jeremiah is the only brave one that stands up and even he considers the message a burden. This is why James tells us that not many of us should want to become teachers.
It all comes down to pleasing God or people. I know in me I will choose people every time if I don't seek the presence of God passionately! I don't want God to use an "if only" statement when He talks of me.
Prayer
Father, I'm so grateful that Your presence aligns me with Your will. I confess that I am weak minded and unfaithful, but You are greater in me each day. I choose to please You, to seek Your presence and will above all else. Please help me to lead others to You, speaking Your truth even when it feels like a burden. I love You!
Sunday, December 2, 2012
Jeremiah 20:13 Expectant
Sing the the Eternal God! Praise the Eternal now for what He will soon do. For a troubled soul is snatched from the wicked.
Observation
From a human stand point, Jeremiah has no reason to praise The Lord. He has been publicly punished, betrayed by his friends, and ridiculed by so many all because God wants him to share a warning with the Israelites.
Jeremiah pours out his heartbreak and pain to God; he has no one else. Jeremiah wishes he was never born, never chosen by God to be a mouthpiece. Yet he comforts himself with a song of God's promise of vindication for him.
Application
I've always thought to praise God in every circumstance, you had to find the good in that circumstance. But for Jeremiah, there is no good in his circumstance, yet he is still able to praise The Lord, why? Because he knows God's promises are sure, so Jeremiah decides to praise God for what He will do. A great reminder for me, that when I can't see any good in my current situation, to remember that God is working all things for good (Romans 8:28), and I can praise Him.
Prayer
Father, I praise You for Your promises are sure. I praise You for Your unfailing love for me. No one and nothing can snatch me from Your hand. It doesn't matter what my circumstances are, because Your promises are not conditional to my circumstances, they are sure! I turn my heart to praise You, now and always!
Observation
From a human stand point, Jeremiah has no reason to praise The Lord. He has been publicly punished, betrayed by his friends, and ridiculed by so many all because God wants him to share a warning with the Israelites.
Jeremiah pours out his heartbreak and pain to God; he has no one else. Jeremiah wishes he was never born, never chosen by God to be a mouthpiece. Yet he comforts himself with a song of God's promise of vindication for him.
Application
I've always thought to praise God in every circumstance, you had to find the good in that circumstance. But for Jeremiah, there is no good in his circumstance, yet he is still able to praise The Lord, why? Because he knows God's promises are sure, so Jeremiah decides to praise God for what He will do. A great reminder for me, that when I can't see any good in my current situation, to remember that God is working all things for good (Romans 8:28), and I can praise Him.
Prayer
Father, I praise You for Your promises are sure. I praise You for Your unfailing love for me. No one and nothing can snatch me from Your hand. It doesn't matter what my circumstances are, because Your promises are not conditional to my circumstances, they are sure! I turn my heart to praise You, now and always!
Saturday, December 1, 2012
Jeremiah 17:5-10, 24 QT with God
Cursed is the one who trusts in human strength and the abilities of mortals. His very heart strays from the Eternal. He is like a little shrub in the desert that never grows; he will see no good thing come his way. He will live in a desert wasteland, a barren land of salt where no one lives. But blessed is the one who trusts in Me alone; the Eternal will be his confidence. He is like a tree planted by water, sending out it's roots to the stream. It does not fear the heat or even the drought. It's leaves stay green and its fruit is dependable, no matter what it faces. The heart is the most devious and incurably sick. Who can understand it? It is I the Eternal One, who probes the innermost thoughts. I will compensate each person justly, according to his ways and by what his actions deserve....But if you will listen to My words, and obey Me by not carrying your loads through these city gates on the Sabbath, if You live differently on the Sabbath, differently from the rest of your week by not working on it, I promise Jerusalem I will be Your home forever.
Observation
Israel's heart had faded from God and how they have kept the Sabbath proves it. They are working on the Sabbath, the specific day that God said to keep holy. By not working on the Sabbath we are showing God that we trust Him as our provider. Moreover, when we trust Him we have a promise of being like a tree whose roots go out to the stream, who always has fruit. When we trust Him, we are never afraid, because we know He is the one who holds us. However, when we trust the work of our own hands, we never grow. We can call ourselves Christians, but never grown, because we never really take that step forward by trusting Him.
The Sabbath is a day to ask God to give you a heart check. You and I can't know our hearts. Our hearts are full of lies; lies that we have believe and live as truth. God is the only One who can reveal these lies and lead us into truth. There are many benefits to keeping the sabbath holy, but for me this is one of the greatest.
Application
I struggle with keeping the Sabbath holy because of a long "to-do" list that haunts me. God in His graciousness and mercy is showing me how destructive it is to go full-throttle all the time and never quiet myself before him. I have regular quiet time with Him each morning, but I need more than that. I can't begin to know what more I need, except to say that I need more of Him, and the Sabbath allows me have just that, more of Him!
Prayer
I want more of You Jesus. Help me to keep the Sabbath holy. In me I would mess it all up, but in You I can do all things. So I cling to You!
Observation
Israel's heart had faded from God and how they have kept the Sabbath proves it. They are working on the Sabbath, the specific day that God said to keep holy. By not working on the Sabbath we are showing God that we trust Him as our provider. Moreover, when we trust Him we have a promise of being like a tree whose roots go out to the stream, who always has fruit. When we trust Him, we are never afraid, because we know He is the one who holds us. However, when we trust the work of our own hands, we never grow. We can call ourselves Christians, but never grown, because we never really take that step forward by trusting Him.
The Sabbath is a day to ask God to give you a heart check. You and I can't know our hearts. Our hearts are full of lies; lies that we have believe and live as truth. God is the only One who can reveal these lies and lead us into truth. There are many benefits to keeping the sabbath holy, but for me this is one of the greatest.
Application
I struggle with keeping the Sabbath holy because of a long "to-do" list that haunts me. God in His graciousness and mercy is showing me how destructive it is to go full-throttle all the time and never quiet myself before him. I have regular quiet time with Him each morning, but I need more than that. I can't begin to know what more I need, except to say that I need more of Him, and the Sabbath allows me have just that, more of Him!
Prayer
I want more of You Jesus. Help me to keep the Sabbath holy. In me I would mess it all up, but in You I can do all things. So I cling to You!
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