1 Samuel 27 -31
This was a really bizarre story and it most certainly raised quite a few questions.
Samuel died. It's doesn't really say much about it, other than, "all Israel had mourned for him." (28:3) Meanwhile, the Lord's spirit had left Saul and he needed advise for the upcoming battle. Since his adviser was dead, Saul went to see a medium (witch, psychic) to call up Samuel.
...and Samuel comes. What the heck? The first thing he says is, "Why have you disturbed me by calling me back?"
OK, first of of all, wow. Do psychics really talk to the dead? I've always been a skeptic when people claim to see or call up the dead. I mean, I realize there are psychics and I believe they really can communicate with the spirit world. But I guess I assumed it evil spirits. I thought it could be possible that the these spirits that have previously known some who are now dead, could know details about their lives and pretend to be them and speak through a "medium" who allows himself (or herself) to be used by those demon spirits.
Was this a one time event? Does this happen today? Do psychics really talk to the dead as the medium did in 1 Samuel?
Second thing, it makes no mention of this being wrong. It does say that Saul banned all mediums but nothing is mentioned in this context about how God feels or what He thinks about them. I know there is scripture that warns us about staying away from these practices, but this passage just tells that facts, as though it was an everyday occurrence and that there's really nothing wrong with it. That surprised me.
Then, Samuel tells Saul that he and his sons will be "here with me tomorrow". In other words they are going to die in battle, but will Saul really go to the same place Samuel has gone? Really?
Saul, whom the bible says, "God's spirit has left", is going to join Samuel, a man of God, a prophet? Where exactly is he? Is he in heaven? Does that mean Saul's going to heaven? ...or perhaps there's a pit stop where people are gathered and divided? I think somewhere in scripture it says that people "sleep" after they die, until Christ's return, but this is before Jesus walked the earth. And it's one of those things that you aren't really sure exactly how to interpret.
Gah!! So many questions!
Like I said, it's a bizarre little story that raises so many questions for me. It certainly doesn't make me question my faith in God, or my salvation through Jesus but I just kind of wonder about these things.
I'm a "question asker" to begin with. I don't just like to know how to do something, I want to know why it's done that way.
I believe that some of my questions will be answered as I dig in deeper to the word. But unfortunately, there are just some questions that I will never know...this side of heaven. And that's OK.
Because that, to me, is faith.
Not knowing everything, but still trusting.
Not seeing, but believing.
Friday, June 10, 2011
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Endless possibilites
1 Samuel 18 - 26
"...and David continued to succeed in everything he did because the Lord was with him." (18:14)
How many more "battles" would I attempt if only I fully believed that I could succeed in everything I do becuase He's with me.
Actually, better than that - He's in me.
King Saul instructs David to kill 100 men in order to marry his daughter - so David kills 200! He grows famous, Saul quickly turns into an enemy and wants him killed.
David becomes a fugitive, running for his life.
Because David is obedient and recognizes that Saul is the Lord's anointed one (still king) he demonstrates that a righteous person respects God's chosen leaders even when that leader fails.
He has opportunity to kill him, but he doesn't. He waits for the Lord to rescue him from Sauls' power instead.
He says (24:12) "Perhaps the Lord will punish you for what you are trying to do to me, but I will not harm you."
He isn't sure whether God will strike Saul dead or if he'll simply die from old age but he vows to leave in His hands.
He also believes that that God will reward him for doing good and being loyal.
"The Lord gives his own reward for doing good and for being loyal...now may the Lord value my life, even as I have valued yours today. May He rescue me from all my troubles." (26:23-24, speaking to Saul)
My spirit is encouraged and my faith strengthened when when I read a verse such as this (26:12), "the Lord put Saul's men in a deep sleep."
It always reminds me of the just how powerful God is, the length He will go to and how the possibilities are endless as to how He can come to our rescue if we just ask and believe.
"...and David continued to succeed in everything he did because the Lord was with him." (18:14)
How many more "battles" would I attempt if only I fully believed that I could succeed in everything I do becuase He's with me.
Actually, better than that - He's in me.
King Saul instructs David to kill 100 men in order to marry his daughter - so David kills 200! He grows famous, Saul quickly turns into an enemy and wants him killed.
David becomes a fugitive, running for his life.
Because David is obedient and recognizes that Saul is the Lord's anointed one (still king) he demonstrates that a righteous person respects God's chosen leaders even when that leader fails.
He has opportunity to kill him, but he doesn't. He waits for the Lord to rescue him from Sauls' power instead.
He says (24:12) "Perhaps the Lord will punish you for what you are trying to do to me, but I will not harm you."
He isn't sure whether God will strike Saul dead or if he'll simply die from old age but he vows to leave in His hands.
He also believes that that God will reward him for doing good and being loyal.
"The Lord gives his own reward for doing good and for being loyal...now may the Lord value my life, even as I have valued yours today. May He rescue me from all my troubles." (26:23-24, speaking to Saul)
My spirit is encouraged and my faith strengthened when when I read a verse such as this (26:12), "the Lord put Saul's men in a deep sleep."
It always reminds me of the just how powerful God is, the length He will go to and how the possibilities are endless as to how He can come to our rescue if we just ask and believe.
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
No armour for me please!
1 Samuel 16-18
God sends Samuel to find a replacement king in Chapter 16. He sends him to the home of a man named Jesse. When Samuel arrives he sees Jesse's son, Eliab, and assumes he must be the one.
But God tells him (vs7)
"Dont judge by his appearance or height for I have rejected him. The Lord doesn't make desisions the way you do! People judge by outward apprearance but the Lord looks at a person's thoughts and intentions." (Love that verse! I think every woman should have this posted to their bedroom mirrors....)
It turns out Jesse's youngest, (David) a shephard boy, is the one. He's "brave and strong, good judgement, a fine looking man! He can play the harp and (best of all) the Lord is with him."
Side note: It just so happened that King Saul was looking for a harp player to help with his depression. Coinsidence? I think not.
Now, the next few chapters deliver a familiar story about young David killing a giant named Goliath. Along with Daniel in the lion's den, this tale's got to be the sitting at the top of the "bible story charts". I've heard it so many times, beginning waaay back in the days my Sunday school teacher used to act it out with felt characters and it's been the topic of many sermons, devotions and songs.
But it's so much more than a story. It's courage. It's deliverence. Most of all it's a humble man giving all the glory to God.
It should be stated that the Isrealites were completely terrified - including the king and his army! These are strong men that have fought, and won, many battles in the past.
However, young David can't believe Goliath has the nerve to defy the army of the living God! He instructs Saul "not to worry about a thing".
He informs King Saul that the same God that saves him from the lions and bears while caring for his sheep will protect him with this giant.
So humble!
Instead of bragging about clubbing a lion to death he recognizes that it's God that has come to his rescue.
...and he believes God will do it again. He completely trusts God. In fact, he refuses to wear armour.
The best part is that David isn't going to battle for fame and glory - he announces that "God is going to conquer their enemy and the whole world will know there is a God in Israel!"
At the end of the day (after squashing the enemy) he gives credit where credit is due, saying "the battle is HIS, not ours!"
It's so true. We go about life with all these daily battles, that we were never meant to fight alone. Jesus didn't suffer so we would wake up every morning terrified to face a new Goliath.
We try to change people in our life that "need" changin'. I just need to tell that person everytime they do something wrong...otherwise they won't know!
We curse ourselves every time we give in to "that" tempatation, whether it be food, lust, gossip...
We claim it's going to be a bad day before we even get out of bed! Ugh...I have that boring meeting today, this day is going to be the worst day ever!
Whether our "Goliath's" are habits we need to overcome, difficult people in our lives, sickness and disease or perhaps even terrible loss...and how dare we let it defy the living God!
The battles is HIS! He'll come to our rescue every time.
"Cast ALL your anxieties on Him, becuase He cares for you." (1 Peter 5:7)
"Don't be afraid! Just stand where you are and let the Lord rescue you." (Ex 14:13)
From this day foward instead of seeing only giants when I open my eyes I will choose to "let the morning bring me word of His unfailing love, for I will put my trust in Him." (Psalm 143:8)
Goliath?? Oh yeah, that big guy that falls really hard.
I say, bring him on!
God sends Samuel to find a replacement king in Chapter 16. He sends him to the home of a man named Jesse. When Samuel arrives he sees Jesse's son, Eliab, and assumes he must be the one.
But God tells him (vs7)
"Dont judge by his appearance or height for I have rejected him. The Lord doesn't make desisions the way you do! People judge by outward apprearance but the Lord looks at a person's thoughts and intentions." (Love that verse! I think every woman should have this posted to their bedroom mirrors....)
It turns out Jesse's youngest, (David) a shephard boy, is the one. He's "brave and strong, good judgement, a fine looking man! He can play the harp and (best of all) the Lord is with him."
Side note: It just so happened that King Saul was looking for a harp player to help with his depression. Coinsidence? I think not.
Now, the next few chapters deliver a familiar story about young David killing a giant named Goliath. Along with Daniel in the lion's den, this tale's got to be the sitting at the top of the "bible story charts". I've heard it so many times, beginning waaay back in the days my Sunday school teacher used to act it out with felt characters and it's been the topic of many sermons, devotions and songs.
But it's so much more than a story. It's courage. It's deliverence. Most of all it's a humble man giving all the glory to God.
It should be stated that the Isrealites were completely terrified - including the king and his army! These are strong men that have fought, and won, many battles in the past.
However, young David can't believe Goliath has the nerve to defy the army of the living God! He instructs Saul "not to worry about a thing".
He informs King Saul that the same God that saves him from the lions and bears while caring for his sheep will protect him with this giant.
So humble!
Instead of bragging about clubbing a lion to death he recognizes that it's God that has come to his rescue.
...and he believes God will do it again. He completely trusts God. In fact, he refuses to wear armour.
The best part is that David isn't going to battle for fame and glory - he announces that "God is going to conquer their enemy and the whole world will know there is a God in Israel!"
At the end of the day (after squashing the enemy) he gives credit where credit is due, saying "the battle is HIS, not ours!"
It's so true. We go about life with all these daily battles, that we were never meant to fight alone. Jesus didn't suffer so we would wake up every morning terrified to face a new Goliath.
We try to change people in our life that "need" changin'. I just need to tell that person everytime they do something wrong...otherwise they won't know!
We curse ourselves every time we give in to "that" tempatation, whether it be food, lust, gossip...
We claim it's going to be a bad day before we even get out of bed! Ugh...I have that boring meeting today, this day is going to be the worst day ever!
Whether our "Goliath's" are habits we need to overcome, difficult people in our lives, sickness and disease or perhaps even terrible loss...and how dare we let it defy the living God!
The battles is HIS! He'll come to our rescue every time.
"Cast ALL your anxieties on Him, becuase He cares for you." (1 Peter 5:7)
"Don't be afraid! Just stand where you are and let the Lord rescue you." (Ex 14:13)
From this day foward instead of seeing only giants when I open my eyes I will choose to "let the morning bring me word of His unfailing love, for I will put my trust in Him." (Psalm 143:8)
Goliath?? Oh yeah, that big guy that falls really hard.
I say, bring him on!
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
What could be worse?
1 Samuel 12 - 16
It's not only important to understand that God has our back, but we must also learn to wait on Him. To trust that he'll deliver in HIS time.
...and God's timetable doesn't always make sense, either. It can be unbearable, waiting. But today as I read, I learned that there is something far worse than waiting for God.
...and that's wishing you had.
Saul's king now. His kingdom, the Israelites, forget, for the gazillionth (is that a word?) time, who they are and Who is going to battle for them. They lose their courage when they see the enemy and begin hiding in holes and caves. They even find tombs to take refuge! I don't know, but, when the only options are to face my enemy or hide in an old tomb...I gotta tell ya, the enemy is looking pretty good!
Needless to say, the Philistines are moving in....and Israel is quickly moving out.
As Saul watches his men scatter he starts getting really nervous. Samuel had not arrived on the scene, like he said he would, and seven days had gone by. Finally, when he can stand it no more, when he's reached the point that he can no longer sit by watching his men tremble with fear - he sacrifices burnt offerings to God.
He just goes ahead and does it himself.
...and it costs him his kingdom.
You see, only priests could burn offerings to God and Saul knew that. He was instructed by Samuel to wait, he knew he was coming back. "But how long must I wait? Fear is growing among my men, surely Samuel isn't aware of that! Things have changed since he left a week ago."
Saul took over the role of the priest and in the process, he disregarded one of God's commands.
I believe one of Saul's biggest downfalls was his pride. At one time, the bible teaches, the spirit of the Lord was upon him - giving him great power!
But with great power came pride, and at one point, he decided that God didn't necessarily know best or that His timing was a little messed up.
Instead of obeying God, he decided what God wanted.
He did seem to have good intentions, though, asking God for help through sacrifices and offerings.
Another time, God told him to completely destroy the entire Amalekite nation. However, Saul saved the best livestock, to offer to God. Again, his intention seemed to be to please the Lord, but all he was really doing was disobeying Him.
God told Samuel He was sorry He ever appointed Saul as king, which seems kind of funny to me because God knew what Saul was going to do even before He made him king...but anyway. A replacement king had to be found. A man after God's own heart.
Saul admitted he sinned, however he placed blame on everyone else but himself. (I've aways told my children that an apology doesn't count if it comes along with a "but")
Samuel told him, in not so many words, that it was too late, for "He who is the glory of Isreal will not lie, nor will he change his mind." (15:29)
The bible says the spirit of the Lord had left Saul and sent a tormenting spirit that filled him with depression and fear.
I honestly can't imagine anything worse. Losing his kingdom was one thing. Being filled with depression and fear, quite another. Far worse than any of that though, would be to lose the spirit of the Lord.
Indeed some things are far worse than waiting on God.
"Let all that I am wait quietly before God, for my hope is in him." (Ps 62:5)
It's not only important to understand that God has our back, but we must also learn to wait on Him. To trust that he'll deliver in HIS time.
...and God's timetable doesn't always make sense, either. It can be unbearable, waiting. But today as I read, I learned that there is something far worse than waiting for God.
...and that's wishing you had.
Saul's king now. His kingdom, the Israelites, forget, for the gazillionth (is that a word?) time, who they are and Who is going to battle for them. They lose their courage when they see the enemy and begin hiding in holes and caves. They even find tombs to take refuge! I don't know, but, when the only options are to face my enemy or hide in an old tomb...I gotta tell ya, the enemy is looking pretty good!
Needless to say, the Philistines are moving in....and Israel is quickly moving out.
As Saul watches his men scatter he starts getting really nervous. Samuel had not arrived on the scene, like he said he would, and seven days had gone by. Finally, when he can stand it no more, when he's reached the point that he can no longer sit by watching his men tremble with fear - he sacrifices burnt offerings to God.
He just goes ahead and does it himself.
...and it costs him his kingdom.
You see, only priests could burn offerings to God and Saul knew that. He was instructed by Samuel to wait, he knew he was coming back. "But how long must I wait? Fear is growing among my men, surely Samuel isn't aware of that! Things have changed since he left a week ago."
Saul took over the role of the priest and in the process, he disregarded one of God's commands.
I believe one of Saul's biggest downfalls was his pride. At one time, the bible teaches, the spirit of the Lord was upon him - giving him great power!
But with great power came pride, and at one point, he decided that God didn't necessarily know best or that His timing was a little messed up.
Instead of obeying God, he decided what God wanted.
He did seem to have good intentions, though, asking God for help through sacrifices and offerings.
Another time, God told him to completely destroy the entire Amalekite nation. However, Saul saved the best livestock, to offer to God. Again, his intention seemed to be to please the Lord, but all he was really doing was disobeying Him.
God told Samuel He was sorry He ever appointed Saul as king, which seems kind of funny to me because God knew what Saul was going to do even before He made him king...but anyway. A replacement king had to be found. A man after God's own heart.
Saul admitted he sinned, however he placed blame on everyone else but himself. (I've aways told my children that an apology doesn't count if it comes along with a "but")
Samuel told him, in not so many words, that it was too late, for "He who is the glory of Isreal will not lie, nor will he change his mind." (15:29)
The bible says the spirit of the Lord had left Saul and sent a tormenting spirit that filled him with depression and fear.
I honestly can't imagine anything worse. Losing his kingdom was one thing. Being filled with depression and fear, quite another. Far worse than any of that though, would be to lose the spirit of the Lord.
Indeed some things are far worse than waiting on God.
"Let all that I am wait quietly before God, for my hope is in him." (Ps 62:5)
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
En-courage, don't dis-courage!
1 Samuel 12
Samuel anoints Saul as king, in front of Israel.
Giving them just what they wanted.
He reminds them of all the great things God has done for them and informs them of a king's rights and duties.
"Yup, we know - it's just what we wanted."
They already had a king. An ever faithful king.
One who rescued them time and time again.
"Yeah, He was amazing but NOW we got what
we really wanted!"
Now, they have a "king" like other nations - a king that came with promises and warnings.
"If you and your king follow the Lord, all will be well." (12:14)
"Yes God! Thanks you SO much for giving us
what we...Wait. (record screech) What?"
Yup. So, isn't that just great. Now they don't just have to worry about what they are doing, but also their king.
"It's not enough that we need to fear and worship the Lord, but we need to make sure our king does as well? Or else...(gulp) your hand will be be heavy upon us?? Well, that's not what we asked for!"
You know, Samuel could have critized them. He knew what was going to happen - he was a prophet! He knew how dumb it was to reject God and ask for a king.
But instead, Samuel chose words to encourage them. He does confirm they were wrong - but he also tells them to move forward by doing what is right - worship God, alone - and don't turn away again.
He adds that he'll continue to pray for them.
I absolutely love what he says in verses 23-25 and will ask God to do the same in my life:
"Holy Spirit, teach me what is good and right, to fear the Lord and sincerely worship Him. Remind me of all the wonderful things He has done."
Samuel anoints Saul as king, in front of Israel.
Giving them just what they wanted.
He reminds them of all the great things God has done for them and informs them of a king's rights and duties.
"Yup, we know - it's just what we wanted."
They already had a king. An ever faithful king.
"Yes, praise the Lord but this is really what we wanted."
One who rescued them time and time again.
"Yeah, He was amazing but NOW we got what
we really wanted!"
Now, they have a "king" like other nations - a king that came with promises and warnings.
"If you and your king follow the Lord, all will be well." (12:14)
"Yes God! Thanks you SO much for giving us
what we...Wait. (record screech) What?"
Yup. So, isn't that just great. Now they don't just have to worry about what they are doing, but also their king.
"It's not enough that we need to fear and worship the Lord, but we need to make sure our king does as well? Or else...(gulp) your hand will be be heavy upon us?? Well, that's not what we asked for!"
You know, Samuel could have critized them. He knew what was going to happen - he was a prophet! He knew how dumb it was to reject God and ask for a king.
But instead, Samuel chose words to encourage them. He does confirm they were wrong - but he also tells them to move forward by doing what is right - worship God, alone - and don't turn away again.
He adds that he'll continue to pray for them.
I absolutely love what he says in verses 23-25 and will ask God to do the same in my life:
"Holy Spirit, teach me what is good and right, to fear the Lord and sincerely worship Him. Remind me of all the wonderful things He has done."
Smack dab in the middle!
1 Samuel 9-12
So, doing as he's told, Samuel sets out to find them a king - trusting in the Lord.
Now, I absolutely love how he "finds" a king! It's a beautiful reminder that God is always working behind the scenes, working in my life, even when I can't see how. Even when I don't feel like He is.
OK, so this is what happens:
1. There's this guy named Saul and his dad loses his donkey.
(Hmmmm....God moment #1?)
Lesson #1: Life's inconveniences might not be from the enemy but from God himself.
2. Saul and his servant go looking for the donkey. His servant "conveniently" remembers a man named, Samuel and thinks this guy might be able to tell them where to look for the donkey. He actually says, "Hey, I just thought of something!"
(God moment #2. Yeah right....God much? You just "thought" of something? You are looking for a donkey and you believe some random guy might be able to tell you where it is??)
Lesson #2: Learn to listen! It just might be a nudge from the Holy Spirit.
3. So they go to town, where Samuel "just happens" to come out and meet them. Apparently, God had told Samuel the previous day that a man would by coming by and that he was to become the first king of Israel.
(God moment #3 - How cool is that? OK - so God might not be as forward as that with us, but He does still speak)
Lesson #3: It's not enough to listen, but I need to act when God speaks.
So, there ya have it! God was at work, right smack dab in the middle!
God's still in the business of gettin' in the middle. He rolls up his heavenly sleeves and digs in as much today as He ever did. The bible says He's unchanging. "He's the same yesterday, today and forever", (Heb 13:8) so if He did it then, He does it now!
Maybe the difference is us. It doesn't say how God told Samuel. We assume God spoke to him in a supernatural vision or perhaps He wrote a divine message in the sand! Maybe, it was a dream!! Or maybe...Samuel's just a good listener.
Maybe we need to slow down a bit and learn to hear God when He speaks. Maybe we need to get more in tune with what God has to say to us. It could be a hunch, or something we read, or perhaps a word from a wise friend.
God still gets in the middle, today. But it's not enough to recognize that. It's not enough, even, to hear Him. We need to do what He says!
Samuel went out to meet Saul and his servant as they entered the city. I'm sure he felt a little weird about doing that. I'm guessing he probably had better things to do that day and wondered if he was just wasting his time. He may have even questioned as to whether or not anyone would even show up. But still, he chose to do as God told him to.
One of my favorite preachers, Joyce Meyer, always says, "You do what you can do and God will do what you can't."
Samuel walked out of the city to meet some men he really didn't know. That's what he could do. He couldn't cause them to lose their donkey. He couldn't tell them to go and look for it. He couldn't lead them to his region, Zuph. That was all stuff God had to do.
You do what you can and God will do what you can't.
He'll get in the middle today, the same way He did yesterday and the same way He will tomorrow.
So, doing as he's told, Samuel sets out to find them a king - trusting in the Lord.
Now, I absolutely love how he "finds" a king! It's a beautiful reminder that God is always working behind the scenes, working in my life, even when I can't see how. Even when I don't feel like He is.
OK, so this is what happens:
1. There's this guy named Saul and his dad loses his donkey.
(Hmmmm....God moment #1?)
Lesson #1: Life's inconveniences might not be from the enemy but from God himself.
2. Saul and his servant go looking for the donkey. His servant "conveniently" remembers a man named, Samuel and thinks this guy might be able to tell them where to look for the donkey. He actually says, "Hey, I just thought of something!"
(God moment #2. Yeah right....God much? You just "thought" of something? You are looking for a donkey and you believe some random guy might be able to tell you where it is??)
Lesson #2: Learn to listen! It just might be a nudge from the Holy Spirit.
3. So they go to town, where Samuel "just happens" to come out and meet them. Apparently, God had told Samuel the previous day that a man would by coming by and that he was to become the first king of Israel.
(God moment #3 - How cool is that? OK - so God might not be as forward as that with us, but He does still speak)
Lesson #3: It's not enough to listen, but I need to act when God speaks.
So, there ya have it! God was at work, right smack dab in the middle!
God's still in the business of gettin' in the middle. He rolls up his heavenly sleeves and digs in as much today as He ever did. The bible says He's unchanging. "He's the same yesterday, today and forever", (Heb 13:8) so if He did it then, He does it now!
Maybe the difference is us. It doesn't say how God told Samuel. We assume God spoke to him in a supernatural vision or perhaps He wrote a divine message in the sand! Maybe, it was a dream!! Or maybe...Samuel's just a good listener.
Maybe we need to slow down a bit and learn to hear God when He speaks. Maybe we need to get more in tune with what God has to say to us. It could be a hunch, or something we read, or perhaps a word from a wise friend.
God still gets in the middle, today. But it's not enough to recognize that. It's not enough, even, to hear Him. We need to do what He says!
Samuel went out to meet Saul and his servant as they entered the city. I'm sure he felt a little weird about doing that. I'm guessing he probably had better things to do that day and wondered if he was just wasting his time. He may have even questioned as to whether or not anyone would even show up. But still, he chose to do as God told him to.
One of my favorite preachers, Joyce Meyer, always says, "You do what you can do and God will do what you can't."
Samuel walked out of the city to meet some men he really didn't know. That's what he could do. He couldn't cause them to lose their donkey. He couldn't tell them to go and look for it. He couldn't lead them to his region, Zuph. That was all stuff God had to do.
You do what you can and God will do what you can't.
He'll get in the middle today, the same way He did yesterday and the same way He will tomorrow.
Friday, May 13, 2011
Just like everyone else
1 Samuel 8
Samuel's starting to get old so he appoints his sons as judges.
His greedy, money hungry, sons.
They're nothing like their father and Israel's sees right through them, they want nothing to do with them. Instead, they request a king so "they can be just like other nations".
Samuel's really upset. Heartbroken, he goes before God for advise. God's reply touches my heart, for it gives me a glimpse into His:
"Do as they say, for it's me they're rejecting. They don't want ME as their king anymore. Ever since I brought them from Egypt they have continually forsaken me and followed other gods." (8:7-8)
Ugh! It's too bad the Israelites didn't have giant shoes so they could have just kicked God in the mighty stomach! How sad! A loving father, being rejected by his children.
I have two kids, myself. One's a teen and the other a young adult. I admit I tend to get upset when they take me for granted. I feel a little sorry for myself, go hide in a corner and lick my wounds hopingno one someone will notice.
How much more would the sting of rejection be! MY children? Turning their back on me? After ALL I've done for them?
I can only imagine the grief God felt.
God still loves them and He does what any loving parent would do - he urges Samuel to send warnings of how a king will treat them.
But....Israel still wants a king.
They still want to be like other nations.
Once again, I see myself mirrored in an entire nation.
Everyday, there's a struggle within me over who I am....why can't I be like everyone else? Why can't I sing like the worship leader? It's not fair that my house isn't as nice as my friend's. I wish I were bold like that person? If only I were more soft spoken like that lady.
It's as though I size myself up upon entering a room, comparing myself to everyone around me....at least in some small way. Couldn't I just have the best parts of everyone all wrapped up...in me?
Prideful much? Really though, that's what insecurity is. It's a form of pride! I'm basically saying, the person who God created me to be, isn't good enough.
God had a wonderful plan for the Israelites - but they rejected His plan and came up with their own - so they can be just like everyone else.
"Lord, help me to be happy with who I am, exactly who I am. More importantly, help me see who I am going to become, through you. I pray that I will spend my energy being the best me, fulfilling the plans and purpose you have for me instead of striving to be something that I am not."
Samuel's starting to get old so he appoints his sons as judges.
His greedy, money hungry, sons.
They're nothing like their father and Israel's sees right through them, they want nothing to do with them. Instead, they request a king so "they can be just like other nations".
Samuel's really upset. Heartbroken, he goes before God for advise. God's reply touches my heart, for it gives me a glimpse into His:
"Do as they say, for it's me they're rejecting. They don't want ME as their king anymore. Ever since I brought them from Egypt they have continually forsaken me and followed other gods." (8:7-8)
Ugh! It's too bad the Israelites didn't have giant shoes so they could have just kicked God in the mighty stomach! How sad! A loving father, being rejected by his children.
I have two kids, myself. One's a teen and the other a young adult. I admit I tend to get upset when they take me for granted. I feel a little sorry for myself, go hide in a corner and lick my wounds hoping
How much more would the sting of rejection be! MY children? Turning their back on me? After ALL I've done for them?
I can only imagine the grief God felt.
God still loves them and He does what any loving parent would do - he urges Samuel to send warnings of how a king will treat them.
But....Israel still wants a king.
They still want to be like other nations.
Once again, I see myself mirrored in an entire nation.
Everyday, there's a struggle within me over who I am....why can't I be like everyone else? Why can't I sing like the worship leader? It's not fair that my house isn't as nice as my friend's. I wish I were bold like that person? If only I were more soft spoken like that lady.
It's as though I size myself up upon entering a room, comparing myself to everyone around me....at least in some small way. Couldn't I just have the best parts of everyone all wrapped up...in me?
Prideful much? Really though, that's what insecurity is. It's a form of pride! I'm basically saying, the person who God created me to be, isn't good enough.
God had a wonderful plan for the Israelites - but they rejected His plan and came up with their own - so they can be just like everyone else.
"Lord, help me to be happy with who I am, exactly who I am. More importantly, help me see who I am going to become, through you. I pray that I will spend my energy being the best me, fulfilling the plans and purpose you have for me instead of striving to be something that I am not."
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Hello? Anyone home?
1 Samuel 4-7
There are really only two things you can do with someone else's mistakes:
1. Learn from them.
2. Repeat them.
****************************************************
This is what the Daily Walk Bible has to say about Samuel's parenting skills:
"Samuel should have learned the necessity of proper parental discipline from his observance of Eli's failure with his sons. But apparently he did not because his owns sons were equally undisciplined. They were covetous, took bribes and perverted justice. How could such a tragic turn of events repeat itself? How could any generation not learn from it's predecessors?"
Exactly. That's what I want to to know! I mean, Samuel aside...What in the world was Israel thinking?
I just want to yell into the pages of my bible and knock on their heads! "Hello?....McFly!" (Remember the old Back to the Future Movie?)
Really though...it's getting old. I understand each generation has to learn to trust God for themselves, I do. They cant just ride on the coat tails of their ancestors faith. At some point they have to decide for themselves that God is who He says He is and He does what He says He'll do.
In saying that, though, you would think they would at least use their parents, or in some cases, grandparents' faith as a step stool to reach their own level of trust. Obviously, history was recorded. I'm sure they heard the stories of God's provision and protection - in fact I know they did - at least once a year during passover.
So, what's the deal? Why do they always have to get to the point where they're being defeated before they turn back to God? I mean, we're not talking a few years, here. We're talking 40-80 years in some cases! Hello? Anyone home??
So, off we go. History repeating itself...again. Israel's being defeated, this time by the Philistines. For 20 years Israel mourns because "it seemed" God abandoned them.
Yeah. It has nothing to do with the foreign gods and images in your homes, people, I'm sure of it.
Samuel urges them, "Obey the Lord! Get rid of your gods! He'll rescue you!"
It doesn't take a rocket scientist to predict what happens next.
They confess.
God shows up.
He speaks a mighty voice of thunder - it confuses the Philistines and Israel wins the battle!!
How many times does God need to show up before we'll trust Him once and for all?
There are really only two things you can do with someone else's mistakes:
1. Learn from them.
2. Repeat them.
****************************************************
This is what the Daily Walk Bible has to say about Samuel's parenting skills:
"Samuel should have learned the necessity of proper parental discipline from his observance of Eli's failure with his sons. But apparently he did not because his owns sons were equally undisciplined. They were covetous, took bribes and perverted justice. How could such a tragic turn of events repeat itself? How could any generation not learn from it's predecessors?"
Exactly. That's what I want to to know! I mean, Samuel aside...What in the world was Israel thinking?
I just want to yell into the pages of my bible and knock on their heads! "Hello?....McFly!" (Remember the old Back to the Future Movie?)
Really though...it's getting old. I understand each generation has to learn to trust God for themselves, I do. They cant just ride on the coat tails of their ancestors faith. At some point they have to decide for themselves that God is who He says He is and He does what He says He'll do.
In saying that, though, you would think they would at least use their parents, or in some cases, grandparents' faith as a step stool to reach their own level of trust. Obviously, history was recorded. I'm sure they heard the stories of God's provision and protection - in fact I know they did - at least once a year during passover.
So, what's the deal? Why do they always have to get to the point where they're being defeated before they turn back to God? I mean, we're not talking a few years, here. We're talking 40-80 years in some cases! Hello? Anyone home??
So, off we go. History repeating itself...again. Israel's being defeated, this time by the Philistines. For 20 years Israel mourns because "it seemed" God abandoned them.
Yeah. It has nothing to do with the foreign gods and images in your homes, people, I'm sure of it.
Samuel urges them, "Obey the Lord! Get rid of your gods! He'll rescue you!"
It doesn't take a rocket scientist to predict what happens next.
They confess.
God shows up.
He speaks a mighty voice of thunder - it confuses the Philistines and Israel wins the battle!!
How many times does God need to show up before we'll trust Him once and for all?
Friday, May 6, 2011
Good things DO come to those who wait!
1 Samuel Chapter 1 & 2
You know, I think it's kind of human nature to bargain with God. At least once in your life. I've done it. Especially back in the day when I was still trying to win God's love.
"God, if you make these tests come back negative, I'll quit smoking for sure this time."
"I promise, God, if I get this job, I'm going to to start giving more to others."
"God, I promise, if you heal my mother I will start going to church on a regular basis."
Don't act like you've never done it, too!
After reading the story of Hannah I thought about it for a bit. "I wonder if God made Hannah wait for a son, not to draw her closer to Him, or cause her to lean on Him - but so that she would make Him a promise?"
Every year, Hannah would go to Shiloh to worship and offer sacrifices to God and every year she'd pray for a son, something she wanted more than anything else in the world.
She couldn't eat, she cried - she was teased and taunted for her barrenness. The bible says she was in deep anguish. Deep. Right down to the pit of her stomach.
Year after year.
..after year.
Finally, out of desperation she cried out to God, "PLEASE, God! Give me a son! I'll do anything! I'll even give him back to you if that's what you want! His very life will be yours!"
Wowzers. Not sure if THAT'S the promise I would have given. I may have said, "Sure, I'll quit my job and be a stay at home mom", or, "I want a son so bad, I'm willing to (gulp) home school him...I promise to teach him all your ways", I might even go so very far as to say, "God, if you give me a child I will bring him to church every single day!"
But, give him back to God? Let another man raise him? I often wonder if Hannah found regret in the hidden corners of her heart.
Even her husband knew how difficult it would be saying, "May the Lord help you keep your promise." (1:23)
Bringing that boy to the temple and handing him over to a stranger was probably the most difficult thing Hannah had ever done, and would ever do.
But, Hannah, in the midst of her pain, instead of allowing her feelings and emotions rule her actions - worshiped her God instead.
Did I hear that correctly? Worshipped? She didn't fall down and cry? Admit to the Holy of Holies that she was didn't understand what she was committing to only a few short years ago? Beg Him to grant mercy on his lowly servant and change his mind?
Nope. She prayed an absolutely beautiful prayer. I grabbed a few of my favorite verses from the passage I wrote my own version of her prayer:
"My heart rejoices in the Lord, how He has blessed me! No one is holy like the Lord, there is no rock like our God! He lifts the poor from a pile of ashes, placing them in seats of honour. No one will succeed in strength alone, those who fight against the Lord will be broken. He gives mighty strength to his anointed ones."
Imagine! Her heart rejoices in the Lord, as she hands over her son to a priest named Eli.
God used Hannah because He knew her heart. He knew she had a spirit of obedience and loyalty to Him. He also knew that she would pass a firm foundation on to her boy in the few short years that it took to wean him.
Eli failed to discipline his sons and as a result they lived a life of disgrace before the Lord. In the very same house, the bible says that, "Meanwhile, Samuel grew up in the presence of the Lord." (2:21)
God had a plan, Samuel was destined to be the last judge of Israel, and that plan was fulfilled through an ordinary women of extraordinary faith.
Even though the bible dedicates two entire books to the the life of Samuel with little else said about his mother, the story was far from over for Hannah.
It turns out that some stories do have happy endings. That good things do come to those who wait....and to those who keep their word. Because Hannah was faithful and honoured her promise - God gave her five more children!
And although it doesn't say, I like to think Hannah was given one child for every year that she waited for Samuel.
...cause God's just like that.
You know, I think it's kind of human nature to bargain with God. At least once in your life. I've done it. Especially back in the day when I was still trying to win God's love.
"God, if you make these tests come back negative, I'll quit smoking for sure this time."
"I promise, God, if I get this job, I'm going to to start giving more to others."
"God, I promise, if you heal my mother I will start going to church on a regular basis."
Don't act like you've never done it, too!
After reading the story of Hannah I thought about it for a bit. "I wonder if God made Hannah wait for a son, not to draw her closer to Him, or cause her to lean on Him - but so that she would make Him a promise?"
Every year, Hannah would go to Shiloh to worship and offer sacrifices to God and every year she'd pray for a son, something she wanted more than anything else in the world.
She couldn't eat, she cried - she was teased and taunted for her barrenness. The bible says she was in deep anguish. Deep. Right down to the pit of her stomach.
Year after year.
..after year.
Finally, out of desperation she cried out to God, "PLEASE, God! Give me a son! I'll do anything! I'll even give him back to you if that's what you want! His very life will be yours!"
Wowzers. Not sure if THAT'S the promise I would have given. I may have said, "Sure, I'll quit my job and be a stay at home mom", or, "I want a son so bad, I'm willing to (gulp) home school him...I promise to teach him all your ways", I might even go so very far as to say, "God, if you give me a child I will bring him to church every single day!"
But, give him back to God? Let another man raise him? I often wonder if Hannah found regret in the hidden corners of her heart.
Even her husband knew how difficult it would be saying, "May the Lord help you keep your promise." (1:23)
Bringing that boy to the temple and handing him over to a stranger was probably the most difficult thing Hannah had ever done, and would ever do.
But, Hannah, in the midst of her pain, instead of allowing her feelings and emotions rule her actions - worshiped her God instead.
Did I hear that correctly? Worshipped? She didn't fall down and cry? Admit to the Holy of Holies that she was didn't understand what she was committing to only a few short years ago? Beg Him to grant mercy on his lowly servant and change his mind?
Nope. She prayed an absolutely beautiful prayer. I grabbed a few of my favorite verses from the passage I wrote my own version of her prayer:
"My heart rejoices in the Lord, how He has blessed me! No one is holy like the Lord, there is no rock like our God! He lifts the poor from a pile of ashes, placing them in seats of honour. No one will succeed in strength alone, those who fight against the Lord will be broken. He gives mighty strength to his anointed ones."
Imagine! Her heart rejoices in the Lord, as she hands over her son to a priest named Eli.
God used Hannah because He knew her heart. He knew she had a spirit of obedience and loyalty to Him. He also knew that she would pass a firm foundation on to her boy in the few short years that it took to wean him.
Eli failed to discipline his sons and as a result they lived a life of disgrace before the Lord. In the very same house, the bible says that, "Meanwhile, Samuel grew up in the presence of the Lord." (2:21)
God had a plan, Samuel was destined to be the last judge of Israel, and that plan was fulfilled through an ordinary women of extraordinary faith.
Even though the bible dedicates two entire books to the the life of Samuel with little else said about his mother, the story was far from over for Hannah.
It turns out that some stories do have happy endings. That good things do come to those who wait....and to those who keep their word. Because Hannah was faithful and honoured her promise - God gave her five more children!
And although it doesn't say, I like to think Hannah was given one child for every year that she waited for Samuel.
...cause God's just like that.
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Good things DO come in small packages!
Ruth - 1 - 4
Whoever said that good things come in small packages was right! The book of Ruth, only four brief chapters, was jammed full of love, loyalty, faithfulness, courage, and promise.
*************************************************
When I pulled my journal out to where I had written my thoughts on Ruth (back in Nov 2010) this is what I read:
"Ruth is a story about a lady that walked with God, shows kindness to others and is greatly rewarded."
I then quoted a verse:
"May the Lord, the God of Israel under whose wings you have come to take refuge, reward you fully." (2:12)
*************************************************
Wow. I had really out done myself on that one! I mean, did I even read the book? I don't exactly remember that morning, it was 6 whole months ago, but it looks as though I read the book, wrote my thoughts, hit "snooze" and went back to sleep!
It happens.
Needless to say, I decided yesterday to go back and read the book of Ruth again and, this time, listen to what God wanted to teach me through her story.
It's truly is a beautiful book! To make along short story even shorter, I've summarized in point form:
Ruth's decision to go with Naomi was literally a conversion. Her "speech" was a strong statement to her faith in "Israel's God."
"Where you will go, I will go. Where you stay, I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God. Where you die I will die and there I will be buried..."
It's very clear that Naomi put the needs of others before her own when she urges her daughters in law to stay behind for their own good. She even asks God to bless them with another marriage.
It's written that Naomi lived with her sons (and daughters in law) about 10 years before they died. I truly believe that in that time Naomi's example of love and compassion drew Ruth into a yearning to serve the one true God. Perhaps Ruth saw in Naomi, an overflow of God's love - a god that didn't "belong" to Ruth, but one that she was willing to abandon her own people for.
The book of Ruth holds many truths for us to hear. God often has more than one lesson for us to learn in a single verse, let alone a whole book!
I wasn't sure if I should focus in on the loyalty shown by Ruth to her mother in law or by Boaz in marring Ruth, as he was a kinsman-redeemer. (A close relative obligated to help when a family line or possessions were in danger)
I even thought of writing about courage - the courage it took for Ruth to step out in faith, not only to move away from her family but to go and lay at the feet of Boaz. (You REALLY must read this story to get all the details!)
But in the end, it was the less obvious choice - a lesson of testimony - that touched my heart. A message that could easily be lost in the book of Ruth.
To me, that is what it is all about - living your life so people see the lovingkindness of a God, under whose wings, they will come to take refuge.
A God they will very much want to call their own.
Whoever said that good things come in small packages was right! The book of Ruth, only four brief chapters, was jammed full of love, loyalty, faithfulness, courage, and promise.
*************************************************
When I pulled my journal out to where I had written my thoughts on Ruth (back in Nov 2010) this is what I read:
"Ruth is a story about a lady that walked with God, shows kindness to others and is greatly rewarded."
I then quoted a verse:
"May the Lord, the God of Israel under whose wings you have come to take refuge, reward you fully." (2:12)
*************************************************
Wow. I had really out done myself on that one! I mean, did I even read the book? I don't exactly remember that morning, it was 6 whole months ago, but it looks as though I read the book, wrote my thoughts, hit "snooze" and went back to sleep!
It happens.
Needless to say, I decided yesterday to go back and read the book of Ruth again and, this time, listen to what God wanted to teach me through her story.
It's truly is a beautiful book! To make a
- A man, along with his wife Naomi, and their two sons, move from Judah to Moab.
- The man dies and the two sons marry Moabite women, one named Orpah, the other, Ruth.
- The two sons also die.
- Having lost both husband and her sons, Naomi decides to return to her homeland, Judah.
- Orpah decides to stay in Moab. Ruth goes to Judah with Naomi, knowing she'll be considered an outsider.
- Poor and hungry, Ruth goes to pick up leftover grain in the fields of a man named Boaz.
- Boaz marries Ruth and they give birth to Obed, the grandfather of Kind David.
Ruth's decision to go with Naomi was literally a conversion. Her "speech" was a strong statement to her faith in "Israel's God."
"Where you will go, I will go. Where you stay, I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God. Where you die I will die and there I will be buried..."
It's very clear that Naomi put the needs of others before her own when she urges her daughters in law to stay behind for their own good. She even asks God to bless them with another marriage.
It's written that Naomi lived with her sons (and daughters in law) about 10 years before they died. I truly believe that in that time Naomi's example of love and compassion drew Ruth into a yearning to serve the one true God. Perhaps Ruth saw in Naomi, an overflow of God's love - a god that didn't "belong" to Ruth, but one that she was willing to abandon her own people for.
The book of Ruth holds many truths for us to hear. God often has more than one lesson for us to learn in a single verse, let alone a whole book!
I wasn't sure if I should focus in on the loyalty shown by Ruth to her mother in law or by Boaz in marring Ruth, as he was a kinsman-redeemer. (A close relative obligated to help when a family line or possessions were in danger)
I even thought of writing about courage - the courage it took for Ruth to step out in faith, not only to move away from her family but to go and lay at the feet of Boaz. (You REALLY must read this story to get all the details!)
But in the end, it was the less obvious choice - a lesson of testimony - that touched my heart. A message that could easily be lost in the book of Ruth.
To me, that is what it is all about - living your life so people see the lovingkindness of a God, under whose wings, they will come to take refuge.
A God they will very much want to call their own.
Monday, May 2, 2011
...the end of book seven.
Judges was a sobering reminder of how easily God can be taken for granted.
Although I found myself wondering how in the world God's children kept falling back into rebellion over and over again after deliverance from God, I had to remember that each generation had to learn their own lesson.
It's easy to fall into the trap of, "God will forgive me", and it's true. God WILL forgive me, if my heart is truly repentant. However, it's not about that. It's not about me, its about responding to a love that I will never come close to understanding this side of heaven.
It's about surrendering to the One who loves me so much that He allows Himself to be taken for granted over and over again.
It's about learning to love others with the same loyal, faithful and unfailing love that I have been shown.
"God has poured out His love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom He has given us." (Romans 5:5)
Oh, I just love that verse. Every time I read it I imagine God physically (and tenderly) sprinkling His love into my heart.
Pour it to the rim please! In fact...I think I'll have seconds!
Although I found myself wondering how in the world God's children kept falling back into rebellion over and over again after deliverance from God, I had to remember that each generation had to learn their own lesson.
It's easy to fall into the trap of, "God will forgive me", and it's true. God WILL forgive me, if my heart is truly repentant. However, it's not about that. It's not about me, its about responding to a love that I will never come close to understanding this side of heaven.
It's about surrendering to the One who loves me so much that He allows Himself to be taken for granted over and over again.
It's about learning to love others with the same loyal, faithful and unfailing love that I have been shown.
Oh, I just love that verse. Every time I read it I imagine God physically (and tenderly) sprinkling His love into my heart.
Pour it to the rim please! In fact...I think I'll have seconds!
Friday, April 29, 2011
Please! Just one more chance...
Judges 10 - 21
This book is like a merry go round! Same journey every time, different horse (translation: judge). It goes like this:
Israel does evil in the sight of the Lord. They are overcome by their enemies, God rescues them by raising up a judge. They live in peace until that judge dies.
But eventually, God reaches the end of His mighty rope. He's done. He tells them, "you've abandoned Me, serving other gods." (10:13) and announces that He's never going to rescue them again. He told them to cry out to their "gods" to rescue the, next time, in their hour of distress!
As a parent of a teenager, I can relate. "That's right, God! You tell 'em! They've turned their back on you one too many times! It's time to show them who's boss!"
But the Israelites pleaded.
"....and God was grieved by their misery." (10:16)
Again, I can relate.
The love of a parent is like no other. It doesn't matter how many times our children mess up. We always want to give them another chance. Another opportunity to change.
To obey.
To love.
So, God sends more judges and one of them is Samson.
"Hey, I know the story of Samson! Or at least a little something about him. He's the guy that grows his hair really long and gets his power from it, right?"
Kind of.
The "daily walk" bible describes his life "a study of unfulfilled potential."
How sad. God blesses Samson with superhuman strength and commissions him to rescue Israel from the Philistines, but Samson spends most of his life chasing his own passions - mostly women.
He ultimately ends up blind and in bondage. The bible says, "the Lord, had left him." (16:20)
Eventually, he comes to the place where he places full surrender of his life to God.
He prays, "Sovereign Lord, remember me again!" (16:28)
God, gives him one last portion of power and in his death Samson destroys more Philistines than during his entire life of compromise.
In the end, Samson embraced the power of love and rejected the love of power.
And once again, God proved to be faithful.
This book is like a merry go round! Same journey every time, different horse (translation: judge). It goes like this:
Israel does evil in the sight of the Lord. They are overcome by their enemies, God rescues them by raising up a judge. They live in peace until that judge dies.
But eventually, God reaches the end of His mighty rope. He's done. He tells them, "you've abandoned Me, serving other gods." (10:13) and announces that He's never going to rescue them again. He told them to cry out to their "gods" to rescue the, next time, in their hour of distress!
As a parent of a teenager, I can relate. "That's right, God! You tell 'em! They've turned their back on you one too many times! It's time to show them who's boss!"
But the Israelites pleaded.
"....and God was grieved by their misery." (10:16)
Again, I can relate.
The love of a parent is like no other. It doesn't matter how many times our children mess up. We always want to give them another chance. Another opportunity to change.
To obey.
To love.
So, God sends more judges and one of them is Samson.
"Hey, I know the story of Samson! Or at least a little something about him. He's the guy that grows his hair really long and gets his power from it, right?"
Kind of.
The "daily walk" bible describes his life "a study of unfulfilled potential."
How sad. God blesses Samson with superhuman strength and commissions him to rescue Israel from the Philistines, but Samson spends most of his life chasing his own passions - mostly women.
He ultimately ends up blind and in bondage. The bible says, "the Lord, had left him." (16:20)
Eventually, he comes to the place where he places full surrender of his life to God.
He prays, "Sovereign Lord, remember me again!" (16:28)
God, gives him one last portion of power and in his death Samson destroys more Philistines than during his entire life of compromise.
In the end, Samson embraced the power of love and rejected the love of power.
And once again, God proved to be faithful.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Mighty hero? Me?
Judges 6 - 13
True to it's name, I encountered many deliverers in this book. Deliverers that God called, "judges". I won't write about all of them but there were a few that stood out, mostly because their stories were fun to read!
Ehud - This guy was left handed, like me! He delivered tax money to King Eglon and one day he brought the king a secret message - a dagger to the belly! I especially found it amusing that God felt the need to mention that the king was so fat that Ehus lost his dagger!
Deborah - a great story! She believed God, NEVER doubting. She brought Israel to victory over Sisra, who had 900 chariots! Deborah, like Moses wrote a song for the Israelites so they would never forget all that God has done for them.
Those are just a two of the many judges that God used, but there is another man, one whose story reminds me that God always sees what we can become, not what we really are.
Gideon.
The angel refers to him as, "Mighty hero", when he first calls on him. He sure didn't think of himself that way. In fact, I think the last thing Gideon felt like was a mighty hero!
He reminded the Lord "my clan is the weakest in the whole tribe of Manasseh, and I am the least in my entire family!" (6:15)
Now, I don't don't know if "least" means youngest, or smallest or even weakest but one thing is for sure...Gideon did not have the confidence to be "a mighty hero."
And isn't it just like God to use him anyway?
God's response to him was, "I will be with you." (vs 16)
The treasure I loved in this story was -- Gideon was not the obvious choice.
...or sincere if you will. Raw. Sometimes we need to tell God exactly how we feel. I think God appreciates that. I believe it brings us to a deeper level with Him. Gideon had NO problem doing that, "if God's with us, why has all this happened to us? Where are all the miracles our ancestors told us about? The Lord has abandoned us." (6:13) Sarcasm much?
Finally believing that God is behind him, Gideon watches as God removes all of the props in which he might have trusted. His army was reduced from 32,000 to 300! His weapons were reduced to pitches, torches and trumpets and his strategy was but a single command, "Stand still!"
God's a pretty awesome multi-tasker. He was increasing Gideon's faith but at the same time, He also wanted to be sure that the Israelites couldn't boast, saying they saved themselves, by their own strength.
God saw the ending. He knew that Gideon would be a mighty hero. He also knew that Gideon would give all the glory to God.
Israel asked him to be their ruler. His response?
"The Lord will rule over you!" (8:23)
There was peace for 40 years - during the rest of Gideon's life.
I'm so glad that God loves us for who we are...but sees us for what we can be!
True to it's name, I encountered many deliverers in this book. Deliverers that God called, "judges". I won't write about all of them but there were a few that stood out, mostly because their stories were fun to read!
Ehud - This guy was left handed, like me! He delivered tax money to King Eglon and one day he brought the king a secret message - a dagger to the belly! I especially found it amusing that God felt the need to mention that the king was so fat that Ehus lost his dagger!
Deborah - a great story! She believed God, NEVER doubting. She brought Israel to victory over Sisra, who had 900 chariots! Deborah, like Moses wrote a song for the Israelites so they would never forget all that God has done for them.
Those are just a two of the many judges that God used, but there is another man, one whose story reminds me that God always sees what we can become, not what we really are.
Gideon.
The angel refers to him as, "Mighty hero", when he first calls on him. He sure didn't think of himself that way. In fact, I think the last thing Gideon felt like was a mighty hero!
He reminded the Lord "my clan is the weakest in the whole tribe of Manasseh, and I am the least in my entire family!" (6:15)
Now, I don't don't know if "least" means youngest, or smallest or even weakest but one thing is for sure...Gideon did not have the confidence to be "a mighty hero."
And isn't it just like God to use him anyway?
God's response to him was, "I will be with you." (vs 16)
The treasure I loved in this story was -- Gideon was not the obvious choice.
He was cynical
...or sincere if you will. Raw. Sometimes we need to tell God exactly how we feel. I think God appreciates that. I believe it brings us to a deeper level with Him. Gideon had NO problem doing that, "if God's with us, why has all this happened to us? Where are all the miracles our ancestors told us about? The Lord has abandoned us." (6:13) Sarcasm much?
He was skeptic
He needed a sign from God - not just once - but three times! He asked God, "please don't be angry with me but if you are truly going to use me...I need proof". (6:39) Fighting against the Midians could possibly mean life or death! He wanted to be absolutely sure that THIS WAS GOD!
He was scared
God asked him to tear down his father's alter that he had build for Baal, an idol. Although Gideon obeyed....he did it at night because "he was afraid of the other members of his father's household and the people of the town." (6:27)
Finally believing that God is behind him, Gideon watches as God removes all of the props in which he might have trusted. His army was reduced from 32,000 to 300! His weapons were reduced to pitches, torches and trumpets and his strategy was but a single command, "Stand still!"
God's a pretty awesome multi-tasker. He was increasing Gideon's faith but at the same time, He also wanted to be sure that the Israelites couldn't boast, saying they saved themselves, by their own strength.
God saw the ending. He knew that Gideon would be a mighty hero. He also knew that Gideon would give all the glory to God.
Israel asked him to be their ruler. His response?
"The Lord will rule over you!" (8:23)
There was peace for 40 years - during the rest of Gideon's life.
I'm so glad that God loves us for who we are...but sees us for what we can be!
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
How's THAT workin' for ya?
Judges 1-5
"How quickly they turned away from the path of their ancestors, who had walked in obedience to the Lord's commands."
(2:17)
Disappointed, but not surprised. It was foretold, after all.
After Joshua died and another generation rose up, they began to forget what God had done for them. They chased other gods and abandoned their Lord.
Now, a lot of their problem goes way back to when God told their ancestors to drive everyone out of the land when they moved in and took over.
But they didn't.
They forced some of the Canaanites to work as slaves for them. Hmmm - pride, greed, power - I wonder...what was their driving force? All of the above, perhaps?
But THAT was the old generation. Now, the new generation has the Canaanites living in their land, among them. Their gods a constant temptation.
So, God began to do exactly as He promised. When they went into battle - He fought against them.
But even then, God was faithful - even when His people were not. He took pity on them. He began to rise up men and women to rescue them. Judges, to deliver them.
And so a cycle begins:
It's too bad Dr. Phil wasn't around back then. I'm sure he would have asked them - "How's that workin' for ya?"
"How quickly they turned away from the path of their ancestors, who had walked in obedience to the Lord's commands."
(2:17)
Disappointed, but not surprised. It was foretold, after all.
After Joshua died and another generation rose up, they began to forget what God had done for them. They chased other gods and abandoned their Lord.
Now, a lot of their problem goes way back to when God told their ancestors to drive everyone out of the land when they moved in and took over.
But they didn't.
They forced some of the Canaanites to work as slaves for them. Hmmm - pride, greed, power - I wonder...what was their driving force? All of the above, perhaps?
But THAT was the old generation. Now, the new generation has the Canaanites living in their land, among them. Their gods a constant temptation.
So, God began to do exactly as He promised. When they went into battle - He fought against them.
But even then, God was faithful - even when His people were not. He took pity on them. He began to rise up men and women to rescue them. Judges, to deliver them.
And so a cycle begins:
- The Israelites fall into sin, and usually begin worshipping other gods.
- God gets mad and hands them over to kings. They stay under that king's rule for years.
- Israel cries out to God after years of oppression.
- God sees their renewed commitment and rises up judges - someone to rescue them.
- There is peace. Sweet salvation.
But, you'd think they would have noticed a pattern after about, oh say, a couple of hundred years...wouldn't ya?
It's too bad Dr. Phil wasn't around back then. I'm sure he would have asked them - "How's that workin' for ya?" Tuesday, April 19, 2011
...the end of book six.
So, the trek is finally over.
I've been a Christian for a over 20 years and this was the first time I've read the entire journey of the Israelites from start to finish. Starting before they were delivered from slavery in Egypt until the moment they stepped foot into the promised land.
I began reading my bible because I was searching. I wanted to understand more about God's love.
I've heard it taught for years:
"God IS love!"
"God loves us so much!
"God promises this, and God promises that."
"He'll deliver you!"
But I just wasn't feeling it. Oh, I believed it. But feel it? Not so much.
Most days I felt like a disappointment, falling short of what He called me to be. "He loves me no matter what?"
We live in a world of conditional love. Our love is selfish, "what can they do for me?" It's based on feelings, hormones and past experiences.
Even though I've been taught (and have read scripture to confirm these truths) that His love is unconditional it's still sometimes hard to swallow.
I believed it with my mind.
But, being only familiar with worldly love, I just couldn't feel it with my heart.
It can be a difficult thing to align your heart with your mind.
So began my journey. I started at the beginning, the Old Testemant. I figured I'd have to drudge my way through --marching ahead with my eyes locked on the New Testament...bring on Jesus!! Jesus IS love!!!
But what God has taught me about Himself and His love through these first six books in my bible has knocked my socks off!! (in the wise words of my great friend JD)
In watching Him respond to the Israelites, He's displayed a love that truly IS unconditional.
Finally! I could relate to this love! The Israelites, they were JUST LIKE ME! They've behaved, in so many ways, the way I do!
They were selfish - I tend to think about what's best for me.
They doubted - Yup, got TONS of doubts.
They rebelled - I don't like anyone telling me what to do!
They complained - I like things to go a certain my...my way.
I'm sure I could go one, but I've pretty much convinced myself that I got it covered. I'm just like 'em.
So...I waited for God to cast them away. To turn His mighty back on them! Forget about them. Move on to "better people", people that will appreciate what He does for them.
People that will be, do, serve, love, exactly the way He wants them to. But is there such thing?
We ALL fall short.
When they complained, God gave them exactly what they wanted (remember the quail story? one of my favs) until they were sick of it!
Whey they doubted, God reminded them that it was HIS battle and encouraged them to have faith!
When they rebelled, He corrected them.
When they were captive - HE delivered them through mighty miracles.
What an A-HA moment! I feel so blessed to have found out the secret to why He loves us! Finally! The "reason" I've been searching for!
There is no reason.
It's really not as complicated as I try to make it.
I finally understand that He loves me because He has decided to.
...and certainly not because of anything I do or do not do.
He loves me because that's just who He is and no matter what I do, say, think, hear, or see - I can't escape His Love.
Nor do I want to.
I've been a Christian for a over 20 years and this was the first time I've read the entire journey of the Israelites from start to finish. Starting before they were delivered from slavery in Egypt until the moment they stepped foot into the promised land.
I began reading my bible because I was searching. I wanted to understand more about God's love.
I've heard it taught for years:
"God IS love!"
"God loves us so much!
"God promises this, and God promises that."
"He'll deliver you!"
But I just wasn't feeling it. Oh, I believed it. But feel it? Not so much.
Most days I felt like a disappointment, falling short of what He called me to be. "He loves me no matter what?"
We live in a world of conditional love. Our love is selfish, "what can they do for me?" It's based on feelings, hormones and past experiences.
Even though I've been taught (and have read scripture to confirm these truths) that His love is unconditional it's still sometimes hard to swallow.
I believed it with my mind.
But, being only familiar with worldly love, I just couldn't feel it with my heart.
It can be a difficult thing to align your heart with your mind.
So began my journey. I started at the beginning, the Old Testemant. I figured I'd have to drudge my way through --marching ahead with my eyes locked on the New Testament...bring on Jesus!! Jesus IS love!!!
But what God has taught me about Himself and His love through these first six books in my bible has knocked my socks off!! (in the wise words of my great friend JD)
In watching Him respond to the Israelites, He's displayed a love that truly IS unconditional.
Finally! I could relate to this love! The Israelites, they were JUST LIKE ME! They've behaved, in so many ways, the way I do!
They were selfish - I tend to think about what's best for me.
They doubted - Yup, got TONS of doubts.
They rebelled - I don't like anyone telling me what to do!
They complained - I like things to go a certain my...my way.
I'm sure I could go one, but I've pretty much convinced myself that I got it covered. I'm just like 'em.
So...I waited for God to cast them away. To turn His mighty back on them! Forget about them. Move on to "better people", people that will appreciate what He does for them.
People that will be, do, serve, love, exactly the way He wants them to. But is there such thing?
We ALL fall short.
When they complained, God gave them exactly what they wanted (remember the quail story? one of my favs) until they were sick of it!
Whey they doubted, God reminded them that it was HIS battle and encouraged them to have faith!
When they rebelled, He corrected them.
When they were captive - HE delivered them through mighty miracles.
What an A-HA moment! I feel so blessed to have found out the secret to why He loves us! Finally! The "reason" I've been searching for!
There is no reason.
I finally understand that He loves me because He has decided to.
...and certainly not because of anything I do or do not do.
He loves me because that's just who He is and no matter what I do, say, think, hear, or see - I can't escape His Love.
Nor do I want to.
Sunday, April 17, 2011
...and now the rest of the story.
Joshua 22-24
I'm so excited to move on! It's done! God kept his promise, the battle is over. Now what?
Before Joshua dies, he does as Moses did and speaks to the people one last time. He doesn't waste his last days with small talk, that's for sure!
He points out that they didn't deserve ANY of what they got - land they didn't work for, vineyards they didn't plant. He's also quick to warn them, one last time, "Honor God! Serve Him! Follow His commands!"
...and he's going to follow his own advise in vs 15:
"But as for me and my family, we will serve the Lord."
The people agreed saying, "We would never forsake God! He's preserved us! We're determined."
So Joshua made a covenant between God and His people and for as long as those leaders that had personally experienced God's provision lived...Israel served the Lord.
I'm so excited to move on! It's done! God kept his promise, the battle is over. Now what?
Before Joshua dies, he does as Moses did and speaks to the people one last time. He doesn't waste his last days with small talk, that's for sure!
He points out that they didn't deserve ANY of what they got - land they didn't work for, vineyards they didn't plant. He's also quick to warn them, one last time, "Honor God! Serve Him! Follow His commands!"
...and he's going to follow his own advise in vs 15:
"But as for me and my family, we will serve the Lord."
The people agreed saying, "We would never forsake God! He's preserved us! We're determined."
So Joshua made a covenant between God and His people and for as long as those leaders that had personally experienced God's provision lived...Israel served the Lord.
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Manna vs honey. No brainer?
Joshua 21
A chapter of victory! Although most of the chapter is designated for "who got what land" there were a few concluding verses that could possibly be the most important verses of the first six books of the bible.
Verses 43-45 (in my words)
The Lord gave to Israel ALL the land He had promised their ancestors and they conquered and settled there. God gave them rest on every side, non of their enemies could stand against them. The Lord helped them conquer their enemies. ALL of the good promises CAME TRUE!
While I read these verses with my eyes - this is what I was reading with my heart:
The Lord gave to me ALL of the desires of my heart - love, acceptance, security, faith, grace, self-control, etc. God gave me rest, peace, and no matter what situation I found myself in -my enemies could not stand against me. The Lord helped me conquer my enemies - temptation, guilt, selfishness, shame, insecurity, laziness, the list goes on. ALL of the good promises CAME TRUE!
I, too, can live as victorious as the Israelites! I am saved, by the blood of Christ, that much is true. However, God wants me to live a life of victory! I can either stay back in the desert and eat manna (yuck) for the rest of my life or I can take a step of faith - cross over to the Jordan and eat *milk and honey! (*translation: cheesecake)
I am a child of the most high God and he's going to take care of me right where I am, every day. He's promised me that.
BUT:
I can stay comfortable, sporting my "never aging" sandals, enjoying the daily cloud of shade and warming fire at night. Yes, safe and sound in my own camp, with my own people, continually blocking the sound of God's voice telling me it's time to move on.
OR:
I can stand at the edge, expecting God to part the Jordan for me every day, so I can faithfully cross over on dry land and enjoy a feast! And not to forget, while I'm feasting there's rest on everyside! Life at it's best! Everything God intended for me! What an adventure!
Why would I want to "camp out" everynight when I can board a luxury cruise line?
That's what God wants to know....
A chapter of victory! Although most of the chapter is designated for "who got what land" there were a few concluding verses that could possibly be the most important verses of the first six books of the bible.
Verses 43-45 (in my words)
The Lord gave to Israel ALL the land He had promised their ancestors and they conquered and settled there. God gave them rest on every side, non of their enemies could stand against them. The Lord helped them conquer their enemies. ALL of the good promises CAME TRUE!
While I read these verses with my eyes - this is what I was reading with my heart:
The Lord gave to me ALL of the desires of my heart - love, acceptance, security, faith, grace, self-control, etc. God gave me rest, peace, and no matter what situation I found myself in -my enemies could not stand against me. The Lord helped me conquer my enemies - temptation, guilt, selfishness, shame, insecurity, laziness, the list goes on. ALL of the good promises CAME TRUE!
I, too, can live as victorious as the Israelites! I am saved, by the blood of Christ, that much is true. However, God wants me to live a life of victory! I can either stay back in the desert and eat manna (yuck) for the rest of my life or I can take a step of faith - cross over to the Jordan and eat *milk and honey! (*translation: cheesecake)
I am a child of the most high God and he's going to take care of me right where I am, every day. He's promised me that.
BUT:
I can stay comfortable, sporting my "never aging" sandals, enjoying the daily cloud of shade and warming fire at night. Yes, safe and sound in my own camp, with my own people, continually blocking the sound of God's voice telling me it's time to move on.
OR:
I can stand at the edge, expecting God to part the Jordan for me every day, so I can faithfully cross over on dry land and enjoy a feast! And not to forget, while I'm feasting there's rest on everyside! Life at it's best! Everything God intended for me! What an adventure!
Why would I want to "camp out" everynight when I can board a luxury cruise line?
That's what God wants to know....
Friday, April 15, 2011
What's YOUR story?
Joshua 14
(Verses 8-13)
I just had to make a special journal entry for this small passage of scripture.
I absolutely loved reading how Caleb boasted - in the Lord. He was so thankful that he was 85 years old and in as good shape as ever! He's even talking about "driving the Anakites out of their land"!
For some reason, it strikes me funny when "characters" in the bible say or do something that makes them more "human" - in my eyes. I truly believe the bible is the inspired word of God, the living word, and I fully trust that these people existed. They were real! But, I've been reading or hearing about these people and their stories since I was little and there are some cases that they almost become "fictional" to me.
That's why I appreciate hearing an old man bragging about being as strong as he was in his youth - that he can travel and fight as good as he did before! I just just see him kicking his leg up over a chair as he said it too, just in case they didn't believe him. Grampy used to do that...
There's a powerful message in his Caleb's testimony. At first he appears to be proud - a self-reliant soldier. Although he begins by saying what he had to "do" to maintain his health it quickly becomes apparent that he wasn't tooting his own horn. He said "for my part, I followed the Lord, my God, completely."
He was simply giving credit where credit was due! He continued by saying, "the Lord has kept me alive and well."
Indeed He did. Just as He had promised.
Caleb's testimony reminded me that when we are truly witnessing, we are not talking about ourselves, but about God.
God uses our stories, but all the glory is His! Amen!
(Verses 8-13)
I just had to make a special journal entry for this small passage of scripture.
I absolutely loved reading how Caleb boasted - in the Lord. He was so thankful that he was 85 years old and in as good shape as ever! He's even talking about "driving the Anakites out of their land"!
For some reason, it strikes me funny when "characters" in the bible say or do something that makes them more "human" - in my eyes. I truly believe the bible is the inspired word of God, the living word, and I fully trust that these people existed. They were real! But, I've been reading or hearing about these people and their stories since I was little and there are some cases that they almost become "fictional" to me.
That's why I appreciate hearing an old man bragging about being as strong as he was in his youth - that he can travel and fight as good as he did before! I just just see him kicking his leg up over a chair as he said it too, just in case they didn't believe him. Grampy used to do that...
There's a powerful message in his Caleb's testimony. At first he appears to be proud - a self-reliant soldier. Although he begins by saying what he had to "do" to maintain his health it quickly becomes apparent that he wasn't tooting his own horn. He said "for my part, I followed the Lord, my God, completely."
He was simply giving credit where credit was due! He continued by saying, "the Lord has kept me alive and well."
Indeed He did. Just as He had promised.
Caleb's testimony reminded me that when we are truly witnessing, we are not talking about ourselves, but about God.
God uses our stories, but all the glory is His! Amen!
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Take a look in the mirror, girlfriend.
Joshua 4-13
More miracles! God parted the Jordan and His people (once again) walked on dry ground! Honestly, it's hard to believe that they are going to turn away from God again. It's just a matter of when.
As I was reading this passage, I'm embarrassed to admit that I wasn't exactly cheering for the Israelites. I was fist pumping God, excited that He showed his power again but I couldn't help but think, "They don't deserve all that God has done for them."
Wow. Self-righteous much?
But really, I couldn't help but think about how much God has done for the Israelites. I mean, He did A LOT! And it's not just what He's done for them, but how many times He's forgiven them!
And Moses has already prophesied that they are going to turn their backs on God again! "Why, those ungrateful, disobedient, sandal wearing, cloud following...."
Then the light bulb flickered.
How have I been any different? How many times have I expected God to give me HIS best, when I was so unwilling to give him MY best?
It's caused me to change the way I look at obedience. It's made me want to please God.
Even though I know that God knows my heart inside and out...there are times when I don't. I know my salvation is not about acts but I kind of like having a "tangible" way to show God that I love Him back.
Boy, it's real easy to see the faults in others, eh? Maybe I ought to take the plank out of my eye next time I look in the mirror.
More miracles! God parted the Jordan and His people (once again) walked on dry ground! Honestly, it's hard to believe that they are going to turn away from God again. It's just a matter of when.
As I was reading this passage, I'm embarrassed to admit that I wasn't exactly cheering for the Israelites. I was fist pumping God, excited that He showed his power again but I couldn't help but think, "They don't deserve all that God has done for them."
Wow. Self-righteous much?
But really, I couldn't help but think about how much God has done for the Israelites. I mean, He did A LOT! And it's not just what He's done for them, but how many times He's forgiven them!
And Moses has already prophesied that they are going to turn their backs on God again! "Why, those ungrateful, disobedient, sandal wearing, cloud following...."
Then the light bulb flickered.
How have I been any different? How many times have I expected God to give me HIS best, when I was so unwilling to give him MY best?
It's caused me to change the way I look at obedience. It's made me want to please God.
Even though I know that God knows my heart inside and out...there are times when I don't. I know my salvation is not about acts but I kind of like having a "tangible" way to show God that I love Him back.
Boy, it's real easy to see the faults in others, eh? Maybe I ought to take the plank out of my eye next time I look in the mirror.
Is seeing the ONLY way to believe?
Joshua 1-3
The book of Joshua was only 24 chapters so I read them over a couple of days. Most of the book is an account of the wars that were fought and what land was given to which tribe.
I found myself skimming through a lot of Joshua. However, when I went back to begin journaling what I had underlined, I realized there were quite a few things that touched my heart and lessons to be learned in this great book.
First, I loved the little "pep talk" God gave, directly, to Joshua. He tells him three times "be strong and courageous!" He also tells him not to be discouraged, or afraid, and to keep His laws. He promises to be with him just as He was with Moses!
"I will not fail you or abandon you." (1:5)
That must have meant a lot to Joshua because I'm sure he questioned his ability to follow in the steps of Moses.
The people even assured him that they would "do what he commanded and go where he sends them" and mimicked the words of their God - "be strong and courageous!"
I imagine people were tempted to "compare" Joshua's leadership to that of Moses. In fact, the bible records moments when they said to him, "the Lord instructed Moses...."
Joshua could have fallen into a trap of self doubt but instead he marched on knowing that God was with him and that he had a very specific purpose!
Both he and Moses had their own part to play and Joshua must have been able to recognize that. He understood that the nation's true leader was God and THAT never changed.
Only the instrument He used.
True to his word (was there any doubt?) God went ahead and showed them favor long before the Israelites took their first step into battle.
Joshua sent two spies into the promise land much the way Moses did, to "size up" the competition. However, this time...the outcome was very different. They ran into a prostitute and this is what she told them:
1. I know the Lord has given you this land.
2. We are all afraid. EVERYONE is living in terror.
3. We have heard the Lord has made a dry path for you.
4. Our hearts are melted in fear!
5. NO ONE has the courage to fight.
6. Your God, is the supreme God.
7. Jericho will be conquered.
Imagine!!! Knowing you are going to war and the opposition is scared to death of you! They do not have the courage to fight!
God HAS gone before you!
Just as God said, waaaaay back in Exodus, people are hearing the great things He has done for them!
In chapter 2 verse 24 the spies went back to the people and told them, "the Lord is going to give us the whole land for sure! All of the people in the land are terrified of our people!!"
Um, yeah. Hasn't God been telling them that all along?
Why is we have to see for ourselves or even hear it from someone else before we believe that what God says is true?
The book of Joshua was only 24 chapters so I read them over a couple of days. Most of the book is an account of the wars that were fought and what land was given to which tribe.
I found myself skimming through a lot of Joshua. However, when I went back to begin journaling what I had underlined, I realized there were quite a few things that touched my heart and lessons to be learned in this great book.
First, I loved the little "pep talk" God gave, directly, to Joshua. He tells him three times "be strong and courageous!" He also tells him not to be discouraged, or afraid, and to keep His laws. He promises to be with him just as He was with Moses!
"I will not fail you or abandon you." (1:5)
That must have meant a lot to Joshua because I'm sure he questioned his ability to follow in the steps of Moses.
The people even assured him that they would "do what he commanded and go where he sends them" and mimicked the words of their God - "be strong and courageous!"
I imagine people were tempted to "compare" Joshua's leadership to that of Moses. In fact, the bible records moments when they said to him, "the Lord instructed Moses...."
Joshua could have fallen into a trap of self doubt but instead he marched on knowing that God was with him and that he had a very specific purpose!
Both he and Moses had their own part to play and Joshua must have been able to recognize that. He understood that the nation's true leader was God and THAT never changed.
Only the instrument He used.
True to his word (was there any doubt?) God went ahead and showed them favor long before the Israelites took their first step into battle.
Joshua sent two spies into the promise land much the way Moses did, to "size up" the competition. However, this time...the outcome was very different. They ran into a prostitute and this is what she told them:
1. I know the Lord has given you this land.
2. We are all afraid. EVERYONE is living in terror.
3. We have heard the Lord has made a dry path for you.
4. Our hearts are melted in fear!
5. NO ONE has the courage to fight.
6. Your God, is the supreme God.
7. Jericho will be conquered.
Imagine!!! Knowing you are going to war and the opposition is scared to death of you! They do not have the courage to fight!
God HAS gone before you!
Just as God said, waaaaay back in Exodus, people are hearing the great things He has done for them!
In chapter 2 verse 24 the spies went back to the people and told them, "the Lord is going to give us the whole land for sure! All of the people in the land are terrified of our people!!"
Um, yeah. Hasn't God been telling them that all along?
Why is we have to see for ourselves or even hear it from someone else before we believe that what God says is true?
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
...the end of book five.
So it turns out I really enjoyed the book of Deuteronomy. It was basically a review of the first four books of the bible.
It gave me many glimpses of God's character and how faithful His love is - even when we are stubborn and rebellious. There were a lot of great verses in this book about fear and loving God.
Jesus himself quoted this book a few times during his ministry. When he was asked by the Pharisees what the greatest commandment was, He answered them:
I also loved one of the messages that Moses tried to get through to the Israelites in this chapter. He explained to them that God didn't chose them as a nation because they were a great people but simply because He loves them and because He made a promise to their ancestors.
It's that simple.
God keeps His promises. Love Him with all your heart, mind and soul.
Yes, Deuteronomy was a great book.
It gave me many glimpses of God's character and how faithful His love is - even when we are stubborn and rebellious. There were a lot of great verses in this book about fear and loving God.
Jesus himself quoted this book a few times during his ministry. When he was asked by the Pharisees what the greatest commandment was, He answered them:
I also loved one of the messages that Moses tried to get through to the Israelites in this chapter. He explained to them that God didn't chose them as a nation because they were a great people but simply because He loves them and because He made a promise to their ancestors.
It's that simple.
God keeps His promises. Love Him with all your heart, mind and soul.
Yes, Deuteronomy was a great book.
A legacy worth living for....
Deuteronomy 12 - 34
The finish line is just around the bend! I can see the end of this book as I round the corner!
Although there have been many truths and encouraging passages in this book, there has also been an awful lot of rules and regulations for a time period that is really hard for me to relate to.
I found myself "skimming" as I read about how the Israelites weren't supposed to plow with an ox and a donkey together, or wear clothes made of wool and linen woven together.
Seriously?
Are we supposed to apply these rules today? Do we ignore them? Simply dismiss them as they are for people "a long time ago in a land far away...."?
What was their purpose? How do we decide which rules do apply today?
So many questions...and like I mentioned earlier - it makes for a long read.
That's why I get so excited when a passage, or a promise, such as the following, comes along!
"Do not be afraid as you go out to fight today! Do not lose heart or panic. For the Lord, your God, is going with you! He will fight for you against your enemies, and He will give you victory." (Chapter 20:3-4)
That, my readers, is a GREAT promise!
Moses is using the last days, weeks and months of his life to tell the Israelites over and over again, that God will either bless them greatly...or curse them greatly. It's their choice.
And just like we do as parents, he spends double time in warning mode - telling them in great detail of how they will be cursed.
He explains how easy it is and how it brings God great pleasure to bless them, if they only "love the Lord and keep His commands, laws and regulations by walking in His ways."
He reminds them that God's laws aren't secrets, or held in distant places but have been revealed in a very clear way.
He even writes a song for Israel to memorize! An easy way for them to remember his teachings! How funny is that? I used to do the same thing with my children when they were younger to help them study for tests!
Before He died, Moses made sure the people of Israel knew that Joshua was their new leader and a prophet. He wanted to be sure they knew they weren't going to be "shepherdless."
...and so ends the life of Moses. Just like that. I came to the paragraph and read of his death. Four verses.
Like a breath.
It reminded me that we are all the same. People will read of our death, in the paper - a couple of paragraphs (if we're lucky)....just like Moses.
Our life, like Moses', will be as a breath. A mere vapour in the big scheme of things.
Moses left a great legacy. He was a human instrument in the creation of the nation of Israel. He lead them our of slavery, unleashed the ten plaques against Egypt, he guided the freed slaves for 40 years, he carried down the law from Mount Sinai and he prepared God's people to enter the promised land.
But above all that, he was a man that loved and obeyed God.
I'm pretty sure I won't free a nation in my lifetime, (although that's for God to decide) but do pray that my legacy is that of Moses.
I want to be known as someone who loved and obeyed God.
...with ALL my heart.
The finish line is just around the bend! I can see the end of this book as I round the corner!
Although there have been many truths and encouraging passages in this book, there has also been an awful lot of rules and regulations for a time period that is really hard for me to relate to.
I found myself "skimming" as I read about how the Israelites weren't supposed to plow with an ox and a donkey together, or wear clothes made of wool and linen woven together.
Seriously?
Are we supposed to apply these rules today? Do we ignore them? Simply dismiss them as they are for people "a long time ago in a land far away...."?
What was their purpose? How do we decide which rules do apply today?
So many questions...and like I mentioned earlier - it makes for a long read.
That's why I get so excited when a passage, or a promise, such as the following, comes along!
"Do not be afraid as you go out to fight today! Do not lose heart or panic. For the Lord, your God, is going with you! He will fight for you against your enemies, and He will give you victory." (Chapter 20:3-4)
That, my readers, is a GREAT promise!
Moses is using the last days, weeks and months of his life to tell the Israelites over and over again, that God will either bless them greatly...or curse them greatly. It's their choice.
And just like we do as parents, he spends double time in warning mode - telling them in great detail of how they will be cursed.
He explains how easy it is and how it brings God great pleasure to bless them, if they only "love the Lord and keep His commands, laws and regulations by walking in His ways."
He reminds them that God's laws aren't secrets, or held in distant places but have been revealed in a very clear way.
He even writes a song for Israel to memorize! An easy way for them to remember his teachings! How funny is that? I used to do the same thing with my children when they were younger to help them study for tests!
Before He died, Moses made sure the people of Israel knew that Joshua was their new leader and a prophet. He wanted to be sure they knew they weren't going to be "shepherdless."
...and so ends the life of Moses. Just like that. I came to the paragraph and read of his death. Four verses.
Like a breath.
It reminded me that we are all the same. People will read of our death, in the paper - a couple of paragraphs (if we're lucky)....just like Moses.
Our life, like Moses', will be as a breath. A mere vapour in the big scheme of things.
Moses left a great legacy. He was a human instrument in the creation of the nation of Israel. He lead them our of slavery, unleashed the ten plaques against Egypt, he guided the freed slaves for 40 years, he carried down the law from Mount Sinai and he prepared God's people to enter the promised land.
But above all that, he was a man that loved and obeyed God.
I'm pretty sure I won't free a nation in my lifetime, (although that's for God to decide) but do pray that my legacy is that of Moses.
I want to be known as someone who loved and obeyed God.
...with ALL my heart.
If the shoe fits (and doesn't blister my feet)....
Deuteronomy 5-11
After reviewing the commandments, (you'd think they would know them off by heart by now) Moses, again, stresses that they need to be careful and obey all of them. He repeats, "if you love God with all of your heart - God will greatly bless you."
If they don't - they will be destroyed just as their enemies have been.
So, he's reminded them of the commandments, but now he's about to give them a set of regulations that will teach them how to demonstrate their unique relationship with God.
He explains to them, for the upteenth time, that these laws are for their own good. To help them prosper.
He warns them never to foget that it was God that brought them to where they now are.
I needed that reminder, too. It easy to forget (or take for granted) that when my "land" is flowing with milk and honey and things are going great, that it was God that brought me there.
I was born in an absolutely, beautiful, free country - - that was God.
My amazing childhood, surrounded by family that loved me no matter what - - God too!
My loyal friends that are so much fun to hang out with and allow me to lean on when I need support - - God.
Two beautiful children that I was blessed beyond measure with - my heavenly father.
A partner to share life's valley's and mountains with, someone who has my back, no matter what -- God planned that one, as well.
A home, car, money to buy food, clothing and whatever might come along - all God!
I could keep going...
Often times, the journey is rough along the way.
For the Isrealites, they were slaves but God delivered them. They were hungry - God fed them manna.
They were thirsty and water flowed from a rock - coincidence? I think not...
Moses taught them that those circumstances, those times of trials, were allowed by God to humble them so they would never think it was on their own strength and engery that made them wealthy.
He also noted that even when God disciplined them, He did it to help them...as a parent loves their child.
I find myself rereading little details that could be easily missed. Small details that uncover God's great power! "Their clothes didn't wear and their feet didn't blister and swell during the 40 years they were in the dessert!"
...and I'm sure they appreciated it!
Oh! How He loves us!
After reviewing the commandments, (you'd think they would know them off by heart by now) Moses, again, stresses that they need to be careful and obey all of them. He repeats, "if you love God with all of your heart - God will greatly bless you."
If they don't - they will be destroyed just as their enemies have been.
So, he's reminded them of the commandments, but now he's about to give them a set of regulations that will teach them how to demonstrate their unique relationship with God.
He explains to them, for the upteenth time, that these laws are for their own good. To help them prosper.
He warns them never to foget that it was God that brought them to where they now are.
I needed that reminder, too. It easy to forget (or take for granted) that when my "land" is flowing with milk and honey and things are going great, that it was God that brought me there.
I was born in an absolutely, beautiful, free country - - that was God.
My amazing childhood, surrounded by family that loved me no matter what - - God too!
My loyal friends that are so much fun to hang out with and allow me to lean on when I need support - - God.
Two beautiful children that I was blessed beyond measure with - my heavenly father.
A partner to share life's valley's and mountains with, someone who has my back, no matter what -- God planned that one, as well.
A home, car, money to buy food, clothing and whatever might come along - all God!
I could keep going...
Often times, the journey is rough along the way.
For the Isrealites, they were slaves but God delivered them. They were hungry - God fed them manna.
They were thirsty and water flowed from a rock - coincidence? I think not...
Moses taught them that those circumstances, those times of trials, were allowed by God to humble them so they would never think it was on their own strength and engery that made them wealthy.
He also noted that even when God disciplined them, He did it to help them...as a parent loves their child.
I find myself rereading little details that could be easily missed. Small details that uncover God's great power! "Their clothes didn't wear and their feet didn't blister and swell during the 40 years they were in the dessert!"
...and I'm sure they appreciated it!
Oh! How He loves us!
Monday, February 21, 2011
Because He first loved me.
Deuteronomy 4
In chapter 4, Moses begins getting into the laws and regulations the Israelites will be living by in the new land.
Before he digs into them, he tells the people one of the purposes of these laws. He says that if they obey them carefully, their wisdom and intelligence will be displayed to other nations.
He says, "What great nation has a god as near to them as the Lord our God is near to us whenever we call on Him?"
He also warns them - if they don't obey God, they will be scattered and destroyed, worshiping idols of other nations. Almost immediately his warning turns into prophesy. He's actually telling them that this will happen and when it does, when those bitter days have come upon them far into the future, they will finally return to the Lord and listen to what He tells them.
"For the Lord God is merciful - he will not abandon you or destroy you or forget the covenant He made with your ancestors." (4:30,31)
It really is a beautiful chapter outlining God's wonderful love and never ending faithfulness and how He's chose to reveal Himself to us through trials, miracles, wonders, awesome power, war and terrifying acts!
Moses asks them - "Has anything this great ever happened before? Has any nation heard the voice of their god - or been rescued by their god?" (4:32,33)
I think not! If only people (not just then, but now) would open their eyes and see for themselves how great is our God! They just can't get past the rules they have to follow and commands they are called to keep.
I was at small group last night and we talked about how people get so stuck in the past, to the point where they can't move forward. They chose to stay buried beneath the rubble of their hurts and sin. If only they knew the freedom that comes from letting God grab hold of their heart and heal them.
It's so sad to me the people that go through life without God. Without the hope of a brand new future and eternal life. Who wouldn't want that? They just can't understand that they can know the creator of the universe in a very real and personal way. They assume He's far off and distant and it's a "made up" relationship that we've created.
What they don't realize is the more you experience God in a personal way, the more you want to return that love. Following His commands is a way we can do that. We don't do it out of guilt (well, some do) and we don't do it to make others feel bad (unfortunately some do that too).
We follow Him because we love Him, we want to return His love.
It's like a friend that keeps on forgiving you over and over again. You've been caught talking behind her back numerous times. You've stood her up, ditching her for other plans or other friends. You use her, keep her around for what she can give you, lend you or do for you. You apologize, sometimes because you mean it...most times because you are just expected to.
And she forgives you. She continues to forgive you. She keeps loving you. Keeps giving you gifts, lending you things. Running errands for you, when you don't even ask. She sticks up for you and speaks greatly of you, even when you aren't around.
Eventually something inside you clicks and see what a great friend she truly is. In fact, never has there been as great of friend as she. For some reason, she loves you so much...and you just gotta love back.
You start doing things for her. You meet her for coffee, even when it might not be convenient. You take time out of your busy day to pick up some things for her when she's filling ill. You watch her kids. You drive her places. You lend her your car. You do all of these things because you love her.
Not so that she will love you.
...'cause she already did.
And that is why we follow God's commands. Not so that He will love us.
...but because He already does.
And eventually ya just gotta love back.
In chapter 4, Moses begins getting into the laws and regulations the Israelites will be living by in the new land.
Before he digs into them, he tells the people one of the purposes of these laws. He says that if they obey them carefully, their wisdom and intelligence will be displayed to other nations.
He says, "What great nation has a god as near to them as the Lord our God is near to us whenever we call on Him?"
He also warns them - if they don't obey God, they will be scattered and destroyed, worshiping idols of other nations. Almost immediately his warning turns into prophesy. He's actually telling them that this will happen and when it does, when those bitter days have come upon them far into the future, they will finally return to the Lord and listen to what He tells them.
"For the Lord God is merciful - he will not abandon you or destroy you or forget the covenant He made with your ancestors." (4:30,31)
It really is a beautiful chapter outlining God's wonderful love and never ending faithfulness and how He's chose to reveal Himself to us through trials, miracles, wonders, awesome power, war and terrifying acts!
Moses asks them - "Has anything this great ever happened before? Has any nation heard the voice of their god - or been rescued by their god?" (4:32,33)
I think not! If only people (not just then, but now) would open their eyes and see for themselves how great is our God! They just can't get past the rules they have to follow and commands they are called to keep.
I was at small group last night and we talked about how people get so stuck in the past, to the point where they can't move forward. They chose to stay buried beneath the rubble of their hurts and sin. If only they knew the freedom that comes from letting God grab hold of their heart and heal them.
It's so sad to me the people that go through life without God. Without the hope of a brand new future and eternal life. Who wouldn't want that? They just can't understand that they can know the creator of the universe in a very real and personal way. They assume He's far off and distant and it's a "made up" relationship that we've created.
What they don't realize is the more you experience God in a personal way, the more you want to return that love. Following His commands is a way we can do that. We don't do it out of guilt (well, some do) and we don't do it to make others feel bad (unfortunately some do that too).
We follow Him because we love Him, we want to return His love.
It's like a friend that keeps on forgiving you over and over again. You've been caught talking behind her back numerous times. You've stood her up, ditching her for other plans or other friends. You use her, keep her around for what she can give you, lend you or do for you. You apologize, sometimes because you mean it...most times because you are just expected to.
And she forgives you. She continues to forgive you. She keeps loving you. Keeps giving you gifts, lending you things. Running errands for you, when you don't even ask. She sticks up for you and speaks greatly of you, even when you aren't around.
Eventually something inside you clicks and see what a great friend she truly is. In fact, never has there been as great of friend as she. For some reason, she loves you so much...and you just gotta love back.
You start doing things for her. You meet her for coffee, even when it might not be convenient. You take time out of your busy day to pick up some things for her when she's filling ill. You watch her kids. You drive her places. You lend her your car. You do all of these things because you love her.
Not so that she will love you.
...'cause she already did.
And that is why we follow God's commands. Not so that He will love us.
...but because He already does.
And eventually ya just gotta love back.
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