Wow its been a while. I'm starting a Wednesday night series on Isaiah. Here are my thoughts so far. Its background info and chapter 1.
First a prayer.
Oh Lord thank you for Your Word. The many generations of faithful hands that have obeyed Your leading to bring us this book. We praise You for Your hand in preserving this record, and may You use it to lead us into submission to Your Will and a walk that is where You desire each of us to go. Help us to hear Your voice. In the name of Your son Jesus thank You, Amen.
Isaiah's background -son of Amoz - King's son, but not in the line to the throne. This certainly gave him access to the palace and meant he was probably well educated and had access to scripture.
Interestingly he wrote books referred to in scripture but not left for us- God didn't think it necessary. What God decided was necessary for us was more like his journal. Isaiah's writings of his walk with God and his experiences - probably unedited and unpolished is what has persevered. He recorded his experiences and probably not as they happened. We all have certain insights we get that we may or may not record and they probably aren't in the order they were received. We like Isaiah may record our thoughts and experiences of our walk with God - God may use them.
The Bible is Sixty six books of a walk with God- not a study but a relationship. What was going on around him? What did he do? What did God show him? What did he record? How does that compare to today? Our actions? and what God shows us?
What did Isaiah experience in his lifetime? The Assyrians were on the scene and he witnessed them taking the Northern most part of the country - then Israel (Samaria) - leaving only Judah. Then they invaded Judah. Then they put a siege on Jerusalem. In other words Israel/Judah were in definite decline throughout his life. Some of that anguish he felt, maybe the helplessness prepared him for God to show him what He had in mind for Israel. The tradition is that Isaiah was sawn asunder (in two) by Mannasseh- It is believed he is the one referred to in Hebrews 11:37.
In preparing this I can tell there are people praying for me, I ask they keep it up. I also ask that they pray that I am faithful in delivering what God gives me through studying this. I would also ask that each of you read it and ponder it, pray about what it means for each of your lives, and share that with the group. We are all special, and God works with us in different ways. We each though have a contribution. I have really been impressed by the following.
We were made of dust by God and He gave us life. A bucket of dust (add water) and we have mud, God makes a person. Its interesting that the potter and the clay are talked about in this book. It has been very strong though, it doesn't mean we are nothing and undeserving (as false humility could lead us to believe) but rather God has made each of us uniquely and specially- He wants us, (parents sometimes don't want their kids) He always does. Our very life is a gift from Him, and so are all the things we treasure. Too bad we too often put created things ahead of our creator.
Isaiah was a bucket of dust that God made a person out of for that place and time. He recorded what God told him, and God saved it for us. The book of Isaiah was one of the dead sea scrolls (so we got a copy that dates back to 200 BC).
Ch 1 v2 and 3- as a parent rears children so has the Lord reared Israel. He has like a parent the very best of hope for them, but they have rejected Him. Become prodigal. Farm animals know their allegiances, but people with the "knowledge of good and evil" miss or ignore His leading, and don't seek or abide by His guidance. Apart from Him we are nothing (dust), He gives us life and the choice whether to serve Him or go our own way. Either way He is still our Creator and the Creator of what is around us.
Animals know their owners, but that "knowledge" has made us so smart, so prideful- we just don't understand. We are blinded by our pride. In Isaiah's day as ours we are blind, prideful and un-acknowledging of the role of God in our lives.
Israel in Isaiah's day turned away, and we turn away - I doubt I'm fully submitted to God are you? Here's a test- think of something dear to you: house, car, job, activity, sport, land, boat, child, health, fitness, church, Krispy Kremes - are you really willing to give them up? I like to hike- if God says no more, would I sulk? would I say - You know best God. Children just make me shudder to think about.
He wants our full submission, not just when its easy. He gave us the choice to submit, just like He gave breath to our bodies. Some of us may not be ready in some areas, and most of us probably aren't ready in an area or two. God is our Father and He knows where we are at. Just like us with our children there may be things they aren't ready for yet and us parents "cover". God covers us with His love. Anyone who thinks they have arrived are probably not being honest.
To Study Isaiah I want to refer to Proverbs 1:24-33 The Lord calls out, the people reject (again- the Lord calls out, and the people reject). When that happens they can expect calamity, fear and dread- exactly what Israel was facing in those days. Is the world facing that in these days?
V7 Leviticus keep commandments and statutes and prevent invasions, strangers devouring fields is invasion.
Calamity brings about sacrifice- we run to God in crisis, they did in that day, we do today (9/11) filled churches for a small season. Calamity or crisis makes us abandon the things we treasure when things are going well. Do you really care about your car if a loved one is seriously ill? The Lord was tired of sacrifices- He wanted them to do justice.
Worthless offerings- offerings to God should cost us something. Something that requires sacrifice on our part. time (time away from favorite shows, but probably deeper- time away from family. Where is the proper mix- God before family, family before God. Offerings should cost us money- something I think we all value. What things do we value? The things we have a hard time submitting to God. Same list- we must put Him before them to show our earnestness. Saul captured sheep to sacrifice to God- what did it cost him?
They had festivals and feasts He did not ordain, they put those celebrations before service to Him. He will hide His eyes from seeing us pray, He will not listen.
In doing our own thing, our own way, our hands bloodstained. They become that way just as how it was in Isaiah's day. He warns us verse 16 -turn from your way put God first. Cleanse yourself- this means acknowledge the dirt and wash it off. Would we take baths if we didn't think we were dirty? We must quit doing evil- remove it from His sight
Where can God see?- Everywhere- so then to remove something from His sight we must? STOP doing it.
Learn to do good- learning is a two step process. 1st gain the knowledge, and then put it into practice refining the practice through experience. Do parents feel more confident of their ability to parent when the second child comes along- as opposed to the first? Does the person who has cooked spaghetti a thousand times feel more confident about how it will turn out than the one trying for the first time?
Repetitively doing good takes practice- some care must be taken against pride here, doing good doesn't make us good.
V17 seek justice
reprove (correct) the ruthless
defend the orphan
plead for the widow (Compare to Micah 6:8)
v19 our basic choice:
trust His judgement- have faith in Him
or
Rely on our knowledge of what is good and evil and do as we see fit
His way is life
Our way is death
Grace- no matter where we are, or how far we have fallen, He is calling us back- the decision to follow Him must be first.
A decline of the city is described. Clear choices have been given by God and yet some will choose other than God. It like us is His city, on His earth and He will redeem it. Repentant ones with righteousness.
Oaks and gardens chosen- things we feel we control but our really idols- creation not the Creator
Men's strength will leave (our strength comes from God- are we not dust otherwise?)
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Monday, July 21, 2008
I am heart broken. Some people would say I am depressed and in reading the Bible you might think "depression" is a natural state. I think it certainly is something used by God.
I forgot which great preacher in history talked about depression as a precursor to the moving of God. There was one.
How can anyone not be depressed, I see so many people "spinning their wheels", "pushing a chain" - working diligently at going nowhere. There are so many examples of hunger in this world, injustices against one human by another, and yet a general acceptance of that as normal. Its not normal, it is the result of sin in our lives as humans. Selfishness, wanting our way, promoting our agenda.
We can't legislate it, we can't make people do it, they have to decide to put others first, then we can solve problems. I see the answers to the problems as a need for more gospel, but that notion is rejected out of hand as not being for me, I want to do it my way (selfish).
I see people struggle, looking for and easy way, a quick fix. They don't want to invest the effort or time into real solutions. They don't want to serve others. They want their gratification now.
I also am experiencing joy. God is big enough to bring about change, and one day things will be different. There will be a other focused world and not a self focused one. He will establish His world over the course of 7 years, so truly nobody should be left behind. It will be their choice. Its interesting that Moses charged the Israelites with reading the law to everyone every 7 years -Deut 31:10-11.
Imagine a world where people do look out for each other, do make sure their neighbor is fed, do place resources where they are needed. I so long for that world. A world where children can play, there are no wars, and everyone encourages each other. Thy Kingdom come.
I'm starting Joshua, I normally associate crossing the Jordan with going to heaven, I love the song "Elijah" and the artist that did that is gone. But Joshua can be considered an entering into God's blessings, or accepting His promises. The Israelites knew of God in the dessert, but didn't accept Him. It took them forty years (actually an entire generation) for God to get them to a position where He could bless them. Well that isn't exactly true- God is not time limited- my point however is that the stiff-necked people weren't ready to receive what God wanted to give them.
A new believer is like that in some respects, he/she knows of God and wants the things of God but hasn't crucified their flesh or their non-Godly (fleshly) ways. Therefore they can't truly receive His blessings and His best for them. It may take (and probably does) years for God to work in a life to prepare a person to truly walk with Him. Again its not because God is limited but that we are "stiff-necked". God has the "time" and it is His nature to be ready when we are. He stays ready- we have to come to Him.
Well back to Joshua and God's charge to Joshua in getting ready to cross the Jordan. Verse 3 for the ready Christian everywhere we step foot God has given to us- powerful, awesome, amazing. This means to me that any Christian ready to receive God's blessing - He promises it.
Verse 5 No man will be able to stand before you ... I will not fail you or forsake you. That is the thing I struggle with the most, I can see His Hand in my life in the past but I still entertain fear of the future and His continuing presence. Yet the Bible is full of promises just like that one. No person can hinder God's work in our lives or the blessings He has for us- WOW.
Be strong and courageous-its repeated a couple times, meditate on His word. I feel I have one down- the habit of reading and meditating, the strong and courageous part I need His help. Don't look at circumstances, people, but trust Him.
May I be strong and courageous in my continued walk with Him, accepting what He wants to give me and fearing no man. Please Lord help us in our weak areas.
I forgot which great preacher in history talked about depression as a precursor to the moving of God. There was one.
How can anyone not be depressed, I see so many people "spinning their wheels", "pushing a chain" - working diligently at going nowhere. There are so many examples of hunger in this world, injustices against one human by another, and yet a general acceptance of that as normal. Its not normal, it is the result of sin in our lives as humans. Selfishness, wanting our way, promoting our agenda.
We can't legislate it, we can't make people do it, they have to decide to put others first, then we can solve problems. I see the answers to the problems as a need for more gospel, but that notion is rejected out of hand as not being for me, I want to do it my way (selfish).
I see people struggle, looking for and easy way, a quick fix. They don't want to invest the effort or time into real solutions. They don't want to serve others. They want their gratification now.
I also am experiencing joy. God is big enough to bring about change, and one day things will be different. There will be a other focused world and not a self focused one. He will establish His world over the course of 7 years, so truly nobody should be left behind. It will be their choice. Its interesting that Moses charged the Israelites with reading the law to everyone every 7 years -Deut 31:10-11.
Imagine a world where people do look out for each other, do make sure their neighbor is fed, do place resources where they are needed. I so long for that world. A world where children can play, there are no wars, and everyone encourages each other. Thy Kingdom come.
I'm starting Joshua, I normally associate crossing the Jordan with going to heaven, I love the song "Elijah" and the artist that did that is gone. But Joshua can be considered an entering into God's blessings, or accepting His promises. The Israelites knew of God in the dessert, but didn't accept Him. It took them forty years (actually an entire generation) for God to get them to a position where He could bless them. Well that isn't exactly true- God is not time limited- my point however is that the stiff-necked people weren't ready to receive what God wanted to give them.
A new believer is like that in some respects, he/she knows of God and wants the things of God but hasn't crucified their flesh or their non-Godly (fleshly) ways. Therefore they can't truly receive His blessings and His best for them. It may take (and probably does) years for God to work in a life to prepare a person to truly walk with Him. Again its not because God is limited but that we are "stiff-necked". God has the "time" and it is His nature to be ready when we are. He stays ready- we have to come to Him.
Well back to Joshua and God's charge to Joshua in getting ready to cross the Jordan. Verse 3 for the ready Christian everywhere we step foot God has given to us- powerful, awesome, amazing. This means to me that any Christian ready to receive God's blessing - He promises it.
Verse 5 No man will be able to stand before you ... I will not fail you or forsake you. That is the thing I struggle with the most, I can see His Hand in my life in the past but I still entertain fear of the future and His continuing presence. Yet the Bible is full of promises just like that one. No person can hinder God's work in our lives or the blessings He has for us- WOW.
Be strong and courageous-its repeated a couple times, meditate on His word. I feel I have one down- the habit of reading and meditating, the strong and courageous part I need His help. Don't look at circumstances, people, but trust Him.
May I be strong and courageous in my continued walk with Him, accepting what He wants to give me and fearing no man. Please Lord help us in our weak areas.
Friday, July 11, 2008
Isaiah is a walk with God, studying the Bible doesn't have to be Bible study in the conventional experience. He recorded his experience with God, what are yours? Its about seeing his relationship, the insight given to him that is available to everyone that asks (and seeks diligently).
Not having wisdom is because you haven't made it a goal, and sought it out. To deny God is to deny wisdom, think of the people who make questionable decisions (not that we should judge them) but is it an indicator of their relationship with God. Worldly folks have the same opinion of us, some of our decisions seem questionable- like why go to church when you can sleep in?
World's problem are the result of the lack of relationship with the Lord, I can't think of one that isn't.
Competition - no need - we should be cheering each other on.
How can my faith be expressed in a way that isn't considered "threatening" ? My position makes me more of a threat to students than any other possible influence. As far as being a Christian we are not a threat to anyone. We have the heart that all should come to know the Lord, so harming anyone is contrary to that belief. Any threat anyone feels from a Christian is not from that particular person, and so to say things like the Bible are "hate speech" shows the condition of the world.
I am not a threat! I am a sinner just like everyone else. A person that has somewhat grasped the vision that God's way is the best way, and that God wants the best for everyone.
Not having wisdom is because you haven't made it a goal, and sought it out. To deny God is to deny wisdom, think of the people who make questionable decisions (not that we should judge them) but is it an indicator of their relationship with God. Worldly folks have the same opinion of us, some of our decisions seem questionable- like why go to church when you can sleep in?
World's problem are the result of the lack of relationship with the Lord, I can't think of one that isn't.
Competition - no need - we should be cheering each other on.
How can my faith be expressed in a way that isn't considered "threatening" ? My position makes me more of a threat to students than any other possible influence. As far as being a Christian we are not a threat to anyone. We have the heart that all should come to know the Lord, so harming anyone is contrary to that belief. Any threat anyone feels from a Christian is not from that particular person, and so to say things like the Bible are "hate speech" shows the condition of the world.
I am not a threat! I am a sinner just like everyone else. A person that has somewhat grasped the vision that God's way is the best way, and that God wants the best for everyone.
Saturday, July 5, 2008
This week you get the notes I'm speaking off of tomorrow night.
We can't have enough knowledge of God.
Slide 1
God created the earth and everything in it, He also created us. May He come soon and establish is kingdom. In establishing His kingdom he doesn't need us, but He did charge us with taking the gospel to the ends of the earth. How are we doing?
Slide 2
Do we even know the Gospel, do we even know God's heart? How do we get to know someone- spend time with them.
__________________________
In listening to people's thoughts over the last month or so the most discussed issues don't even have a God element or influence. If there is one it is along the lines "the Bible says that is a sin". In industry I used to hear we do it that way "because that is the way we've always done it". That frustrated me terribly because it isn't an answer, so to quote the Bible and to say "because ... God said so" is correct, but God has His reasons, and we should search them out, Get to know Him and learn the whys.
We must get fed regularly, and we must be God focused- I was struck recently by the following:
__________________________
Slide 3
Numbers 13:2 (God speaking to Moses) Send out for yourself men so that they may spy out the land of Canaan, which I am going to give to the sons of Israel...
Moses got the twelve and sent them out saying (13:18) see what the land is like, AND whether the people who live in it are strong or weak. The types of cities they have... make an effort to get some fruit.
Slide 4
The report back verse 27 the land flows with milk and honey NEVERTHELESS the people are strong. The Lord promised them the land, but the bad report was people focused.
Focus on God not people, He promised them the land what/why did they care about the people?
___________________________
As a result of the report, those people never entered the promised land (except two- read what they said about the land and the people), instead they wandered about in the wilderness. Where are we?
___________________________
Slide 5
Hosea 4:1 Listen to the word of the Lord, O sons of Israel, For the Lord has a case against the inhabitants of the land, Because there is no faithfulness or kindness Or knowledge of God in the land.
verse 3 Therefore the land mourns...
Verse 6 My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge, Because you have rejected knowledge, I also will reject you from being My priest. Since you have forgotten the law of your God, I also will forget your children.
____________________________
We can't have enough knowledge of God.
____________________________
Slide 6
everything we have is from God- we don't deserve anything good on our own merit. We can't praise Him enough
Hosea 6:1-3 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.
6:6 I delight in loyalty rather than sacrifice, and in the knowledge of God rather than burnt offerings.
____________________________
10:12 Sow with a view to righteousness, reap in accordance with kindness; break up your fallow ground, for it is time to seek the Lord until He comes to rain righteousness on you.
____________________________
Slide 7
want to serve God?- want to get to know Him? -so many distractions
be His light , be people that reflect Him. It will flow freely out of an even closer relationship with Him.
_____________________________
We'll fulfill the great commission.
prayer earnestly- Dogback Mtn.
_______________________________
Icebreaker question - who has read the Bible through. I wonder how over the years the number of people who might answer that question has changed? Is it becoming less?
We can't have enough knowledge of God.
Slide 1
God created the earth and everything in it, He also created us. May He come soon and establish is kingdom. In establishing His kingdom he doesn't need us, but He did charge us with taking the gospel to the ends of the earth. How are we doing?
Slide 2
Do we even know the Gospel, do we even know God's heart? How do we get to know someone- spend time with them.
__________________________
In listening to people's thoughts over the last month or so the most discussed issues don't even have a God element or influence. If there is one it is along the lines "the Bible says that is a sin". In industry I used to hear we do it that way "because that is the way we've always done it". That frustrated me terribly because it isn't an answer, so to quote the Bible and to say "because ... God said so" is correct, but God has His reasons, and we should search them out, Get to know Him and learn the whys.
We must get fed regularly, and we must be God focused- I was struck recently by the following:
__________________________
Slide 3
Numbers 13:2 (God speaking to Moses) Send out for yourself men so that they may spy out the land of Canaan, which I am going to give to the sons of Israel...
Moses got the twelve and sent them out saying (13:18) see what the land is like, AND whether the people who live in it are strong or weak. The types of cities they have... make an effort to get some fruit.
Slide 4
The report back verse 27 the land flows with milk and honey NEVERTHELESS the people are strong. The Lord promised them the land, but the bad report was people focused.
Focus on God not people, He promised them the land what/why did they care about the people?
___________________________
As a result of the report, those people never entered the promised land (except two- read what they said about the land and the people), instead they wandered about in the wilderness. Where are we?
___________________________
Slide 5
Hosea 4:1 Listen to the word of the Lord, O sons of Israel, For the Lord has a case against the inhabitants of the land, Because there is no faithfulness or kindness Or knowledge of God in the land.
verse 3 Therefore the land mourns...
Verse 6 My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge, Because you have rejected knowledge, I also will reject you from being My priest. Since you have forgotten the law of your God, I also will forget your children.
____________________________
We can't have enough knowledge of God.
____________________________
Slide 6
everything we have is from God- we don't deserve anything good on our own merit. We can't praise Him enough
Hosea 6:1-3 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.
6:6 I delight in loyalty rather than sacrifice, and in the knowledge of God rather than burnt offerings.
____________________________
10:12 Sow with a view to righteousness, reap in accordance with kindness; break up your fallow ground, for it is time to seek the Lord until He comes to rain righteousness on you.
____________________________
Slide 7
want to serve God?- want to get to know Him? -so many distractions
be His light , be people that reflect Him. It will flow freely out of an even closer relationship with Him.
_____________________________
We'll fulfill the great commission.
prayer earnestly- Dogback Mtn.
_______________________________
Icebreaker question - who has read the Bible through. I wonder how over the years the number of people who might answer that question has changed? Is it becoming less?
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Week of June 27, 2008 thoughts.
It has been a while (about two weeks). I took my mother for her HS reuinion out of state and we had a marvelous time. I personally don't believe in coincidenses although sometimes I use the term (out of habit), but rather I believe its the favor of God. She called them "God winks" so I looked the term up Biblically and wink doesn't have too much of a positive connotation. We certainly experienced His favor. My thoughts are at the end.
Numbers 14:18 our iniquity affects our children and grandchildren and great grandchildren. Actions have consequences which is the way God made it (of course He can change those things, we cannot). He doesn't harm our children because of what we did - we do, it is a consequence of our actions.
Numbers 14:41, the people see that they have missed their chance at the promised land and God told them they had. They decide to go anyway. They even confessed their sin, but their not entering the promised land is a consequence of their previous actions. We also can't be God and do what we want, its still about what the Lord says.
Numbers 20:4-5 the Israelites ask why they left Egypt to die in the wilderness. They died in the wilderness out of their choices and actions having seen the cloud by day and the fire by night. Imagine being able to walk not very far and seeing the presence of the Lord. This statement is interesting because some people don't want to leave their bondage, they want to be slaves.
Balak and Balaam, talking donkey. Donkey saw angel of the Lord, Elisha (or Elijah- I need to look that up) saw the hosts of heaven that were there for us but his servants did not. It would be nice to see the angels working for us.
Daniels visions - after mourning three weeks, no tasty food. Tremendous visions- after a sacrifice (of sorts) and a centering on God.
Hosea 1:8 Good things for Israel come from God, good things for us from God.
What did I see on the trip to NY? A room full of people apprehensive of the future. The economy, the election, the .... References to past, lots of well wishing, Public acknowledgement of God was very rare, and it is something that isn't just in NY but everywhere I go. Sure we hear "God forbid" but that is habitual, a saying we pick up, it is seldom thought about. But I saw the favor of God constantly, and I prayed that He would bless those we came across.
A show came on TV where to gay men where raising children. A woman that did not believe this should be allowed was going to spend time there "getting to know", its all for TV and I'm sure she got paid in some way. It struck me that the real issues aren't discussed. God made it to where it takes a man and a woman to have a child (a blessing on their union) and legislation calling them a family or parents cannot change that fact. The other fact is that you can't legislate morality, preventing these people from raising (someone else's unwanted or inconvenient children) isn't going to happen just because we pass a law. Loop holes will be found. So the show focused on the woman's belief that it was wrong -although she couldn't articulate it, versus their belief that being part of this family was better than foster care. They cared for their children deeply.
Today's sermon was wonderful- submit to Christ and let Him use us as He will. I so needed that, and that we are living in His kingdom now.
It has been a while (about two weeks). I took my mother for her HS reuinion out of state and we had a marvelous time. I personally don't believe in coincidenses although sometimes I use the term (out of habit), but rather I believe its the favor of God. She called them "God winks" so I looked the term up Biblically and wink doesn't have too much of a positive connotation. We certainly experienced His favor. My thoughts are at the end.
Numbers 14:18 our iniquity affects our children and grandchildren and great grandchildren. Actions have consequences which is the way God made it (of course He can change those things, we cannot). He doesn't harm our children because of what we did - we do, it is a consequence of our actions.
Numbers 14:41, the people see that they have missed their chance at the promised land and God told them they had. They decide to go anyway. They even confessed their sin, but their not entering the promised land is a consequence of their previous actions. We also can't be God and do what we want, its still about what the Lord says.
Numbers 20:4-5 the Israelites ask why they left Egypt to die in the wilderness. They died in the wilderness out of their choices and actions having seen the cloud by day and the fire by night. Imagine being able to walk not very far and seeing the presence of the Lord. This statement is interesting because some people don't want to leave their bondage, they want to be slaves.
Balak and Balaam, talking donkey. Donkey saw angel of the Lord, Elisha (or Elijah- I need to look that up) saw the hosts of heaven that were there for us but his servants did not. It would be nice to see the angels working for us.
Daniels visions - after mourning three weeks, no tasty food. Tremendous visions- after a sacrifice (of sorts) and a centering on God.
Hosea 1:8 Good things for Israel come from God, good things for us from God.
What did I see on the trip to NY? A room full of people apprehensive of the future. The economy, the election, the .... References to past, lots of well wishing, Public acknowledgement of God was very rare, and it is something that isn't just in NY but everywhere I go. Sure we hear "God forbid" but that is habitual, a saying we pick up, it is seldom thought about. But I saw the favor of God constantly, and I prayed that He would bless those we came across.
A show came on TV where to gay men where raising children. A woman that did not believe this should be allowed was going to spend time there "getting to know", its all for TV and I'm sure she got paid in some way. It struck me that the real issues aren't discussed. God made it to where it takes a man and a woman to have a child (a blessing on their union) and legislation calling them a family or parents cannot change that fact. The other fact is that you can't legislate morality, preventing these people from raising (someone else's unwanted or inconvenient children) isn't going to happen just because we pass a law. Loop holes will be found. So the show focused on the woman's belief that it was wrong -although she couldn't articulate it, versus their belief that being part of this family was better than foster care. They cared for their children deeply.
Today's sermon was wonderful- submit to Christ and let Him use us as He will. I so needed that, and that we are living in His kingdom now.
Saturday, June 14, 2008
What a tumultuous week, lots of ups and downs and a bout with depression. All of it was about things of this world. I read the end of Leviticus and the start of Daniel. I needed reminding from Daniel this week, but it did not necessarily make it easy.
Leviticus- Don't wrong one another- that scripture spoke very clearly concerning something happening at work, and my skepticism concerning motives. That was then followed by don't make for yourselves idols. In contemplating that it occured to me that we should God first (which isn't news) and then His creation (specifically other humans), and then the things we create like institutions, and houses and cars. Putting a creation of man before a creation of God's, or anything before God Himself is idolatry. I saw real examples of that this week, well maybe its better to say I suspected it strongly.
The end of Leviticus is very comforting- if we walk in His statutes and keep His commandments, He will dwell with us walk with us. If we don't then sudden terror, invasion, fear and being ruled by those that hate us will be the reality. If your life is full of fear- embrace Him closer, until you feel Him dwelling with you and walking with you. Its interesting the fear and upleasantness is brought about by our not being obedient. Even though things are difficult he won't reject us, but our lives may not be as pleasant as we wish. Our wickedness leads to punishment but not rejection. Finally another verse on tithes. A tenth is the Lords, but if we want it back (for somethings that is possible) we must add 20% to the value to redeem it or buy it back.
Now Daniel- I rejected a promotion offer initially this week then had thoughts of reconsideration come to mind. This was followed by colleagues telling me I should reconsider. Then I got to read about Daniel. Nebuchadnezzar had a fearful dream and commanded that people not only interpret the dream but tell him what it was. I think as a manager getting those under you to state your concerns is an interesting concept. They have to be tuned in to you, and forget their own agendas. As far as knowing dreams of others that is clearly in the realm of God, and it took Daniels three friends praying for God to share the dream and its interpretation- otherwise they were going to be killed. Once God answered the prayer Daniel praised Him, something we don't do enough (or at least me).
I like to blanket praise and say anything good in me is the work of God, but specifically He does lead me, for which I am truly thankful.
Daniels interpretation of Nebuchadnezzar's dream assure him long life and success. I think that led to pride in Nebuchadnezzar's case. The entire next chapter is about the golden image he had made and ordered everyone to worship. But its another reminder of why God doesn't tell us our future. If we knew in most cases our pride would take over and we would do things whereby God would have to intervene, we would be tempted to put Him to the test. He'll give us knowledge and discernment if we ask, but seldom tell us our futures. The only exception I see to that is when our death is imminent. Many people in the Bible knew that their death would be soon, because God told them.
The golden image came about due to his pride, but the miracle of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego didn't turn him completely from his pride. An example of how we all must personally experience things that lead us to change. It wasn't until his pride caused God to make him lose his mind and he realized it that he dealt with his pride. The greatest king in history acknowledged that God could humble even him. That Belteshazzar is the next story is a reminder for us parents that our kids may know our story, but they need their own experiences to develop their behavior.
On a side note, I was reminded this last week of the lack of personal knowledge many people have of God. I sent what I thought was a blessing to people and received some surprising responses. I was also reminded in the form of an immediate prayer request that our priorities often get out of order.
My prayer is that God will bless everyone, and the people He has given me as friends to know personally I specifically remember prayerfully from time to time.
Leviticus- Don't wrong one another- that scripture spoke very clearly concerning something happening at work, and my skepticism concerning motives. That was then followed by don't make for yourselves idols. In contemplating that it occured to me that we should God first (which isn't news) and then His creation (specifically other humans), and then the things we create like institutions, and houses and cars. Putting a creation of man before a creation of God's, or anything before God Himself is idolatry. I saw real examples of that this week, well maybe its better to say I suspected it strongly.
The end of Leviticus is very comforting- if we walk in His statutes and keep His commandments, He will dwell with us walk with us. If we don't then sudden terror, invasion, fear and being ruled by those that hate us will be the reality. If your life is full of fear- embrace Him closer, until you feel Him dwelling with you and walking with you. Its interesting the fear and upleasantness is brought about by our not being obedient. Even though things are difficult he won't reject us, but our lives may not be as pleasant as we wish. Our wickedness leads to punishment but not rejection. Finally another verse on tithes. A tenth is the Lords, but if we want it back (for somethings that is possible) we must add 20% to the value to redeem it or buy it back.
Now Daniel- I rejected a promotion offer initially this week then had thoughts of reconsideration come to mind. This was followed by colleagues telling me I should reconsider. Then I got to read about Daniel. Nebuchadnezzar had a fearful dream and commanded that people not only interpret the dream but tell him what it was. I think as a manager getting those under you to state your concerns is an interesting concept. They have to be tuned in to you, and forget their own agendas. As far as knowing dreams of others that is clearly in the realm of God, and it took Daniels three friends praying for God to share the dream and its interpretation- otherwise they were going to be killed. Once God answered the prayer Daniel praised Him, something we don't do enough (or at least me).
I like to blanket praise and say anything good in me is the work of God, but specifically He does lead me, for which I am truly thankful.
Daniels interpretation of Nebuchadnezzar's dream assure him long life and success. I think that led to pride in Nebuchadnezzar's case. The entire next chapter is about the golden image he had made and ordered everyone to worship. But its another reminder of why God doesn't tell us our future. If we knew in most cases our pride would take over and we would do things whereby God would have to intervene, we would be tempted to put Him to the test. He'll give us knowledge and discernment if we ask, but seldom tell us our futures. The only exception I see to that is when our death is imminent. Many people in the Bible knew that their death would be soon, because God told them.
The golden image came about due to his pride, but the miracle of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego didn't turn him completely from his pride. An example of how we all must personally experience things that lead us to change. It wasn't until his pride caused God to make him lose his mind and he realized it that he dealt with his pride. The greatest king in history acknowledged that God could humble even him. That Belteshazzar is the next story is a reminder for us parents that our kids may know our story, but they need their own experiences to develop their behavior.
On a side note, I was reminded this last week of the lack of personal knowledge many people have of God. I sent what I thought was a blessing to people and received some surprising responses. I was also reminded in the form of an immediate prayer request that our priorities often get out of order.
My prayer is that God will bless everyone, and the people He has given me as friends to know personally I specifically remember prayerfully from time to time.
Saturday, June 7, 2008
Its been an interesting week reading in Leviticus. I used to think of sacrifice as something we lost in giving it to God, but considering in the old testament the animal gave up its life, the sacrifices of time and effort on a personal level is what God is after. Its a this world sign acknowledging our belief, an action to back up words. If your sacrifice doesn't cost you anything, then it isn't a sacrifice.
For instance if it is flour you bring for sacrifice it must be fine flour- finely ground -which takes longer more effort either personally or more cost associated in having someone grind it to that condition. The sacrifices were to be without honey or leaven (things we don't make)- bread rises without our effort, and bees make honey. If its an animal it had to be without defect- a choice animal good for reproducing and continuing income, also young so many offspring possibilities.
In the light of those kinds of sacrifices how do they compare to ours of today? Has it cost you time and physcical effort to sacrifice, are you giving Him future wealth possibilities. Now we have to be careful, He would rather have obedience than sacrifice, so like most things we can concentrate too much on sacrifice and comparing ours to other's and miss the point.
The poor are told to sacrifice, so it is possible for everyone to give up something as a sacrifice to God. I also wondered how many people who could afford sheep sacrificed turtledoves or pigeons. I'm guessing the poor would have had to make the effort to catch the birds.
Lev 14:34 is interesting, the Lord can put a mark of leprosy on a house, which will mean it will have to be inspected by the priest, and possibly reinspected. Clean and unclean and atonement, live cleanly and make atonement for uncleaness- this is going to fit later with the command to "be holy". The scapegoat also had the sins of Israel confessed over it (Verbally).
We are not supposed to eat blood or the fat. Blood is life, what is the fat??? I'm looking for that one as I read.
Most of Leviticus is defining sin and rules for living. In the book the steps of sin are clearly stated: knowledge of, confession of, sacrifice, restitution (20%) and forgiveness of those that sin against you is very important. Confession -do we confess our sins like they were told to do over the scapegoat? as we discover them verbally? Do we make sacrifice based on our transgression showing our desire to turn from our ways? Do we make restitution? Do we forgive those that sin against us?
Leviticus 17- a prescribed way to sacrifice, offer it to the Lord, you are to offer the sacrifice in a way that you don't control how the Lord uses it. Some folks sacrificed in their own way and the Lord said to cut them off from the assembly. In other words we are to give up control.
Leviticus 18 is a do and don't list, but in reading it this year it struck me that it is also God telling the Israelites what happens when people don't acknowledge Him and His ways. He is also forewarning them of the how the people in the promised land will be. They followed what they thought was good in their own eyes, and wound up sacrificing their kids. We call that behavior abortion. They became me focused and not other focused so they tried all kinds of things. God told the Israelites to follow His ways, perform His judgements, keep His statutes. Is it "hate speech" on our part when we say that our God has stated very clearly that homosexuality is not a good idea? It isn't hate to warn people who are breaking a statute of God, but rather actually an act of love, its not our opinion but His, and we recognize He will deal with those that continue or don't repent. Also its interesting that the way God prescribes things has a logical basis and in depth research supports what God has said. For example - children need a father.
Do what the Lord says, just because someone else does it, does NOT justify it. If we follow the ways of men it will be a trap.
In Leviticus 19 we are to be personally Holy just as our Father is Holy, and we are striving to walk with Him. In harvesting don't glean it all, but leave some. Leave others an opportunity, don't strive to be perfectly efficient and watch out for greed. In verse 17 correct your neighbor, but do not hate them. First fruits, first part of income or the first part of the blessings received from God are His for us to sacrifice and give back. Then there is the verse don't profane daughters and make them play the harlot and I am reminded of all the youthful pictures we see on magazine covers.
EZE 33:13 The Lord tells someone they will live due to their righteousness, and then the person trusts in the righteousness (not God)and commits iniquity. We must trust in the Lord and realize that any righteous we exhibit comes from Him. Once we get satisfied that we are righteous, then pride and iniquity is at the door.
EZE 33:14 The Lord tells the wicked they will die, and the wicked turns and becomes righteous and makes restitution- then they live. I think the key to this verse is realizing and acknowledging God holds our lives in His hand so if he tells us we will die we can believe it. Restitution is true repentance.
EZE 34:2 Shepherds should feed the flock and not themselves. The Lord will feed the flock. As part of the flock I enjoy sharing what I discover with each of you. I hope its encouraging, some of what has been shared with me has increased my desire to keep studying and going deeper.
Question -is the city described in Ezekiel former or future (it sounds like New Jerusalem, but there will be sacrifices???)?
For instance if it is flour you bring for sacrifice it must be fine flour- finely ground -which takes longer more effort either personally or more cost associated in having someone grind it to that condition. The sacrifices were to be without honey or leaven (things we don't make)- bread rises without our effort, and bees make honey. If its an animal it had to be without defect- a choice animal good for reproducing and continuing income, also young so many offspring possibilities.
In the light of those kinds of sacrifices how do they compare to ours of today? Has it cost you time and physcical effort to sacrifice, are you giving Him future wealth possibilities. Now we have to be careful, He would rather have obedience than sacrifice, so like most things we can concentrate too much on sacrifice and comparing ours to other's and miss the point.
The poor are told to sacrifice, so it is possible for everyone to give up something as a sacrifice to God. I also wondered how many people who could afford sheep sacrificed turtledoves or pigeons. I'm guessing the poor would have had to make the effort to catch the birds.
Lev 14:34 is interesting, the Lord can put a mark of leprosy on a house, which will mean it will have to be inspected by the priest, and possibly reinspected. Clean and unclean and atonement, live cleanly and make atonement for uncleaness- this is going to fit later with the command to "be holy". The scapegoat also had the sins of Israel confessed over it (Verbally).
We are not supposed to eat blood or the fat. Blood is life, what is the fat??? I'm looking for that one as I read.
Most of Leviticus is defining sin and rules for living. In the book the steps of sin are clearly stated: knowledge of, confession of, sacrifice, restitution (20%) and forgiveness of those that sin against you is very important. Confession -do we confess our sins like they were told to do over the scapegoat? as we discover them verbally? Do we make sacrifice based on our transgression showing our desire to turn from our ways? Do we make restitution? Do we forgive those that sin against us?
Leviticus 17- a prescribed way to sacrifice, offer it to the Lord, you are to offer the sacrifice in a way that you don't control how the Lord uses it. Some folks sacrificed in their own way and the Lord said to cut them off from the assembly. In other words we are to give up control.
Leviticus 18 is a do and don't list, but in reading it this year it struck me that it is also God telling the Israelites what happens when people don't acknowledge Him and His ways. He is also forewarning them of the how the people in the promised land will be. They followed what they thought was good in their own eyes, and wound up sacrificing their kids. We call that behavior abortion. They became me focused and not other focused so they tried all kinds of things. God told the Israelites to follow His ways, perform His judgements, keep His statutes. Is it "hate speech" on our part when we say that our God has stated very clearly that homosexuality is not a good idea? It isn't hate to warn people who are breaking a statute of God, but rather actually an act of love, its not our opinion but His, and we recognize He will deal with those that continue or don't repent. Also its interesting that the way God prescribes things has a logical basis and in depth research supports what God has said. For example - children need a father.
Do what the Lord says, just because someone else does it, does NOT justify it. If we follow the ways of men it will be a trap.
In Leviticus 19 we are to be personally Holy just as our Father is Holy, and we are striving to walk with Him. In harvesting don't glean it all, but leave some. Leave others an opportunity, don't strive to be perfectly efficient and watch out for greed. In verse 17 correct your neighbor, but do not hate them. First fruits, first part of income or the first part of the blessings received from God are His for us to sacrifice and give back. Then there is the verse don't profane daughters and make them play the harlot and I am reminded of all the youthful pictures we see on magazine covers.
EZE 33:13 The Lord tells someone they will live due to their righteousness, and then the person trusts in the righteousness (not God)and commits iniquity. We must trust in the Lord and realize that any righteous we exhibit comes from Him. Once we get satisfied that we are righteous, then pride and iniquity is at the door.
EZE 33:14 The Lord tells the wicked they will die, and the wicked turns and becomes righteous and makes restitution- then they live. I think the key to this verse is realizing and acknowledging God holds our lives in His hand so if he tells us we will die we can believe it. Restitution is true repentance.
EZE 34:2 Shepherds should feed the flock and not themselves. The Lord will feed the flock. As part of the flock I enjoy sharing what I discover with each of you. I hope its encouraging, some of what has been shared with me has increased my desire to keep studying and going deeper.
Question -is the city described in Ezekiel former or future (it sounds like New Jerusalem, but there will be sacrifices???)?
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