Banquet With The King

Tuesday, July 18, 2017

Just Say the Word

When Jesus returned to Capernaum, a Roman officer came and pleaded with him, "Lord, my young servant lies in bed, paralyzed and in terrible pain." Jesus said, "I will come and heal him." But the officer said, "Lord, I am not worthy to have you come into my home. Just say the word from where you are, and my servant will be healed. I know this because I am under the authority of my superior officers, and I have authority over my soldiers. I only need to say, 'Go,' and they go, or 'Come,' and they come. And if I say to my slaves, 'Do this,' they do it." When Jesus heard this, He was amazed. Turning to those who were following Him, He said, "I tell you the truth, I haven't seen faith like this in all Israel! And I tell you this, that many Gentiles will come from all over the world—from east and west—and sit down with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob at the feast in the Kingdom of Heaven. But many Israelites—those for whom the Kingdom was prepared—will be thrown into outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth." Then Jesus said to the Roman officer, "Go back home. Because you believed, it has happened." And the young servant was healed that same hour. Matthew 8:5-13

Just say the word…. That Roman officer totally believed in Jesus’ power to heal. Jesus didn’t even have to touch his servant…or be in the same room. Just say the word.

Do you have that kind of faith? When you pray do you just say the word asking, expecting and trusting Jesus to provide physical, spiritual or emotional healing to you, a family member, friend or neighbor? Your prayers may be more powerful than you realize. Faith—like that of the Roman officer—is the key. Ask, believe and you will receive. Isn’t that what Jesus said in one of His last discussions with His disciples.

You haven't done this before. Ask, using my name, and you will receive, and you will have abundant joy. John 16:24

Message etched on an empty vessel in Jerusalem

As a believing Gentile I am excited about Jesus statement that many Gentiles will come and sit down with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob at the feast in the Kingdom of Heaven. Life centers around food—and so this Banquet with the King and His chosen people is going to be extra special. It gives my heart and my face joy just to think about that celebration. I anticipate that Roman officer and his servant will be at that feast also. I pray for those Israelites who were originally chosen—for whom the Kingdom was prepared—that they would choose to know Jesus as their personal Messiah. I don’t want any of them to be thrown into the outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. Such sadness. An eternity of rejection and loneliness. Please pray for them. No one should have to endure eternity without God.

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, please reveal Yourself to the Israeli people that they would know You as their Messiah. They are so blessed to have been chosen—may they know You as their Savior, Redeemer and Friend.

Daily Bible Reading: Isaiah 23-27

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm.

Monday, July 17, 2017

I Just Don’t Know How to Pray….

But if we hope for what we do not see, with perseverance we wait eagerly for it. In the same way the Spirit also helps our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we should, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words; and He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. Romans 8:25-27 NASB

Statue at Capernaum Israel

The Message describes groaning very clearing as wordless sighs… Meanwhile, the moment we get tired in the waiting, God’s Spirit is right alongside helping us along. If we don’t know how or what to pray, it doesn’t matter. He does our praying in and for us, making prayer out of our wordless sighs, our aching groans. Romans 8:26 The Message. How many times have you been at a loss for words when you are praying? That has certainly been my experience when praying for myself and for dear friends who are going through terrible circumstances. That’s when I’ve found myself praying in the Spirit—He gives me the words to say. Turning my aching groans into very comforting words. The Spirit intercedes for us. Read Romans 8:34… Who then will condemn us? No one—for Christ Jesus died for us and was raised to life for us, and He is sitting in the place of honor at God's right hand, pleading (interceding) for us. NLT. We are uniquely blessed! We have Jesus Christ AND the Holy Spirit both interceding for us. Even in times—or especially—of trial and distress we can be assured that our prayers are being taken to the Father in a mighty way. Do you trust the Lord…the Holy Spirit…with your prayers even when you don’t know what to say?

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit—know my heart and hear the groaning of soul. I trust you to speak to the Father for me…and for my family and friends. May all that I think, say and do be acceptable to You, God—for I live to please You.

[Recycled from September 24, 2015]

Daily Bible Reading: Isaiah 18-22

Happy Birthday, Melissa!

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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Sunday, July 16, 2017

First Love

There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves punishment, and the one who fears is not perfected in love. We love, because He first loved us. 1 John 4:18-19 NASB

Do you remember your first love? Their face is probably imbedded into your brain somewhere!

Do you remember how you felt about Jesus the first time you heard about Him? Or what is your earliest memory of Jesus…or church? I remember story time in the nursery before I turned five and got to go to the Kindergarten classroom…and then Vacation Bible School when I was only five or six years old. But my most important memory of Jesus was when I was in the sixth grade and we were studying the Lord’s Prayer. That was the first time that Jesus became really real to me. “Give us this day our daily bread.” He is the Bread of Life. We need to have Him in our lives every day. Thank you, Mrs. Howe, for teaching me that. Jesus as my “daily bread” has now been a lifelong quest. He is my spiritual food. No fear of starving as I search the scriptures. No fear—just knowing that He loved me even before I was born. What a promise…Jesus loves me.

Teach that to your children, too. Jesus loves them. That song, “Jesus, Loves Me” is probably one of the best known songs—especially with my grandchildren. That along with songs I’ve made up for each of them…and of course, Silent Night.

Lord – I Love You. The song maybe “Jesus Loves Me,” but this is my song to You.

“I love Jesus, yes I do, for He’s strong and always true.

He will guide us through this day, show us that He’s The Way.

Yes. I love Jesus. Yes. I love Jesus. Yes. I love Jesus, because He first loved me.”

[Recycled from January 6, 2013]

Daily Bible Reading: Isaiah 13-17

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm.

Saturday, July 15, 2017

God Promised to Live Among the Israelites…and Never Leave Them

Temple Model in Jerusalem

Then the LORD gave this message to Solomon: "Concerning this Temple you are building, if you keep all my decrees and regulations and obey all my commands, I will fulfill through you the promise I made to your father, David. I will live among the Israelites and will never abandon my people Israel." So Solomon finished building the Temple. 1 Kings 6:11-14

What a wonderful promise that God made to David and to Solomon. He would live with them—the people of Israel—but not just with them but among them. I can imagine God walking and talking alongside the Israelites in His Temple in an intimate relationship with the promise that He would never abandon them. I think that is what God desired from His chosen people—to have a relationship with each of them like He had with Adam and Eve before their fall. There are expectations associated with a relationship. God told Solomon that he needed to follow all God’s decrees and regulations and obey all His commands. Solomon thought he could live up to God’s expectations, so he finished building the Temple. At that point in his life he was obedient to God and his commandments.

Are people today much like Solomon—wanting to obey God’s commandments? Are you like Solomon?

Prayer ~ Lord, help me be obedient to You and to Your commandments.

Daily Bible Reading: 2 Chronicles 28; 2 Kings 16-17

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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Friday, July 14, 2017

Pure White

In the vision of Isaiah—the Lord spoke…

When you lift up your hands in prayer, I will not look. Though you offer many prayers, I will not listen, for your hands are covered with the blood of innocent victims. Wash yourselves and be clean! Get your sins out of my sight. Give up your evil ways. Learn to do good. Seek justice. Help the oppressed. Defend the cause of orphans. Fight for the rights of widows. "Come now, let's settle this," says the LORD. "Though your sins are like scarlet, I will make them as white as snow. Though they are red like crimson, I will make them as white as wool. If you will only obey me, you will have plenty to eat. But if you turn away and refuse to listen, you will be devoured by the sword of your enemies. I, the LORD, have spoken!" Isaiah 1:15-20

Pure White Flowers - Sinless Before the Throne

Changed from red to pure white. Life without sin—sparkling white. This is a classic passage. Every new Christian has probably heard this verse (v.18). God was addressing the rulers of Sodom and people of Gomorrah—yet His message is for all mankind. Everyone has sinned.

For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God's glorious standard. Romans 3:23

To those who hear His voice—His message--and respond, God is faithful.

If we say that we have no sin, we are deceiving ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:8-9 NASB

Cleansed—purified. Imagine yourself dazzling white as snow—clean, pure, stunningly beautiful or handsome standing before the Lord. Only the pure and righteous will stand before God the Father’s throne in Heaven. Jesus Christ has been tasked with pronouncing judgment. I think the judgment process is confusing—but read and study “judgment” in the Bible for yourself.

But you, why do you judge your brother? Or you again, why do you regard your brother with contempt? For we will all stand before the judgment seat of God. For it is written, "As I live, says the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall give praise to God." (Isaiah 45:23) So then each one of us will give an account of himself to God. Romans 14:10-12 NASB

But remember that they (everyone) will have to face God, who will judge everyone, both the living and the dead. 1 Peter 4:5

God has spoken—He has promised. If you will only obey me, you will have plenty to eat…If you turn away and refuse to listen…you will die at the hand of your enemies. Everyone has to make their own decision. Obey…or not obey. The choice is yours.

Prayer ~ Lord God, I chose to listen to Your word and follow Your ways. Help me to focus on the things that matter to You, knowing that it is written in scripture…If I listen to these regulations and faithfully obey them, You, the LORD my God, will keep Your covenant of unfailing love, as just as You promised with an oath to my ancestors. From Deuteronomy 7:12.

Daily Bible Reading: Micah

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

I love lemony foods and used to make Lemon Curd standing at the stove for almost an hour stirring these same ingredients in a double boiler. Now with the help of a microwave oven it is quick and easy to enjoy a special treat at a tea party or brunch.

Lemon Curd – Tea Party Pastry Cups

8 Tbsp butter

3 Tbsp lemon zest (from about three large lemons)

½ cup fresh lemon juice (from two to three large lemons)

1½ cups sugar

3 large eggs, lightly beaten

2 egg yolks, lightly beaten

One package of puff pastry cups, baked

Blueberries, for garnish

Fresh Mint leaves. For garnish

Heat the butter in a large glass bowl or measuring cup in the microwave for about 30 seconds so it is slightly, but not completely, melted. Whisk in the lemon zest, lemon juice, sugar, and then the eggs and egg yolks. Heat in the microwave for one minute intervals, whisking well in between until it coats the back of a spoon well. It should take three to four minutes. Strain through a sieve and refrigerate until cool or overnight. When cool fill pastry cups with Lemon Curd, top with blueberries and garnish with mint leaves.

Lemon curd can also be served with scones, pancakes, biscuits, or pound cake for a tea party treat.

[Adapted from wineandglue.com]

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm.

Thursday, July 13, 2017

Return to the Lord

Listen to this message that the LORD has spoken against you, O people of Israel and Judah—against the entire family I rescued from Egypt: …Amos 3:1

"I sent plagues on you like the plagues I sent on Egypt long ago. I killed your young men in war and led all your horses away. The stench of death filled the air! But still you would not return to me," says the LORD. "I destroyed some of your cities, as I destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah. Those of you who survived were like charred sticks pulled from a fire. But still you would not return to me," says the LORD. "Therefore, I will bring upon you all the disasters I have announced. Prepare to meet your God in judgment, you people of Israel!" For the LORD is the one who shaped the mountains, stirs up the winds, and reveals His thoughts to mankind. He turns the light of dawn into darkness and treads on the heights of the earth. The LORD God of Heaven's Armies is His name! Amos 4:10-13

I will…that is God’s promise. Through His prophet Amos, God announced disasters that He would bring about for the people of Israel. They needed to get ready. Doomed. They were doomed. Amos was reminding them of God’s power. Power that included plagues in Egypt and the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. The people of Israel needed to return to God—to follow Him. The message was for the people of Israel to… prepare to meet your God in judgment.

Do we hear the same message? Prepare to meet your God in judgment. God is all powerful—He formed the mountains, causes the wind to blow and reveals His thoughts to mankind through His word, the Bible. Jesus told us… prepare to meet your God in judgment. Know God by reading, studying and meditating on His word.

Do you know the Lord as your Lord and Savior? If not, seek Him with all of your heart, soul, mind and strength. If you already know Jesus Christ as your Messiah, have you drifted away? Return to Him.

Prayer ~ Lord God, I love You with all of my heart, soul, mind and strength. I hear the message… prepare to meet your God in judgment. Show me what I need to do to be spiritually ready for your return.

Daily Bible Reading: 2 Chronicles 27; Isaiah 9-12

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm.

Wednesday, July 12, 2017

Find Joy in God’s Commands

How I delight in Your commands! How I love them! I honor and love Your commands. I meditate on Your decrees. Psalm 119:47-48

God’s commands are His promises. Each command carries a promise of expectation including respect for God and others. David found joy…delight…in God’s commandments.

Ten Commandments

I am the Lord, your God. You shall have no other gods.
Thou shall bring no false idols before me.
Do not take the name of the Lord in vain.
Remember the Sabbath and keep it holy.
Honor thy father and thy mother.
Thou shall not kill (murder/or harm another’s character).
Thou shall not commit adultery.
Thou shall not steal.
Thou shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.
Thou shall not covet your neighbor's wife, or anything that belongs to your neighbor.

The Commandments can simply be summed up in Jesus response to the question, "What is the greatest commandment?"

Jesus replied, "'You must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. A second is equally important: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' The entire law and all the demands of the prophets are based on these two commandments." Matthew 22:37-40

Live up to those two commandments and God will be honored. Only thing is that Jesus also taught that as a person is as he thinks in his heart. Someone commits adultery if he just thinks about it. (See Matthew 5:27-30.) I think the same can apply to any of the commandments.

For as he thinks within himself, so he is. …. Proverbs 23:7a NASB

I’ve found once again that I need to carefully guard my tongue…and since my words start in my mind—I need to be careful about what I think as well as speak. God probably won’t condemn us to hell just for speaking without thinking…but words can hurt and I need to be careful what I think and say. I don’t intentionally want to hurt others—but it happens so easily and words can’t be taken back. An apology is just that…an apology. The memory of the hurtful words can’t be erased. Forgiveness can be attained, but the situation won’t be forgotten. I’m trying to speak carefully. With God all things are possible—so there is hope that I won’t always be such a fool with a wicked tongue.

The heart of the godly thinks carefully before speaking; the mouth of the wicked overflows with evil words. Proverbs 15:28

Such wisdom…tells me to keep my mouth shut. How about you? Are you able to think before speaking? I’d rather have joy from following God’s directives than regrets at destroying someone else’s character or my own when I stick my foot in my mouth.

Prayer ~ Lord God, I want to please You. Help me to bring You glory by thinking before I speak.

Daily Bible Reading: Amos 6-9

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm.

Tuesday, July 11, 2017

Heth - Wisdom, Righteousness, Grace and Life

Heth. The LORD is my portion; I have promised to keep Your words. I sought Your favor with all my heart; Be gracious to me according to Your word. I considered my ways and turned my feet to Your testimonies. I hastened and did not delay to keep Your commandments. The cords of the wicked have encircled me, but I have not forgotten Your law. At midnight I shall rise to give thanks to You because of Your righteous ordinances. I am a companion of all those who fear You, and of those who keep Your precepts. The earth is full of Your lovingkindness, O LORD; Teach me Your statutes. Psalm 119:57-64 NASB

Heth is the eighth letter in the Hebrew alphabet. It is the first letter in the Hebrew words for wisdom, righteousness, grace and life. The letter looks like a doorway. Does that represent a doorway to life? ח

One of many blue doors in Israel.

Will the "blue" really ward off evil?

A portion of this scripture passage in the New Living Testament includes the word mercy.

With all my heart I want your blessings. Be merciful as you promised. Psalm 119:58 NLT

Mercy. In Hebrew it is eleeo, meaning to be compassionate, to spare, or console. Gracious. Here the psalmist David is reminding God that He has promised to be merciful. Note that the psalmist also promises God that he will be obedient because he wants God’s blessings. Great motivation for obedience.

Psalm 119 is interesting to me for a couple of reasons—one, which with 176 verses it is the longest Psalm. Another reason is that this Psalm was written as an acrostic—in Hebrew of course. There are twenty-two letters in the Hebrew alphabet and each one is used to begin a new section of this Psalm. It loses that quality in the translation to English. Acrostics are like a puzzle—and it must have been a fun challenge for David to write this Psalm in that manner and then to sing it.

Are you in agreement with David?

Is the Lord yours?

Do you seek to please Him with all your heart?

Do you obey His words, i.e. the Ten Commandments? Promise?

Do remember His law—the directions by which He expects you to live?

Are you willing to get up in the middle of the night just to give thanks to the Lord?

Are your friends Christians who respect God and live according to His principles?

Are you teachable?

Prayer ~ Lord God, Be gracious to me according to Your word. I love You with all of my heart, soul, mind and strength. I want to keep Your commandment and live to please You in whatever I think, wherever I walk, and whatever I do. I Thank You morning, noon and night for Your goodness, love, and righteousness. Please continue to teach me more about yourself today…and every day, as long as I live.

Daily Bible Reading: Amos 1-5

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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Monday, July 10, 2017

Hope in Promises

Remember your promise to me; it is my only hope. Your promise revives me; it comforts me in all my troubles. The proud hold me in utter contempt, but I do not turn away from your instructions. I meditate on your age-old regulations; O LORD, they comfort me. Psalm 119:49-52

Columbia River at Richland, Washington

Promise of streams in the desert.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart…He keeps His promises.

So God has given both His promise and His oath. These two things are unchangeable because it is impossible for God to lie. Therefore, we who have fled to Him for refuge can have great confidence as we hold to the hope that lies before us. Hebrews 6:18

Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep His promise. Hebrews 10:23

Do you keep your promises to others, to yourself, and most importantly, to God?

And may the LORD make us keep our promises to each other, for He has witnessed them. 1 Samuel 20:23

When you make a promise to God, don't delay in following through, for God takes no pleasure in fools. Keep all the promises you make to Him. Ecclesiastes 5:4

Prayer ~ Lord God, I trust You to keep Your promises…and I vow to keep my promises to You. Just as You promised that You will never leave me or forsake me…I promise to never leave You or forsake You.

Daily Bible Reading: Isaiah 5-8

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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Sunday, July 9, 2017

Kneel and Worship…Or Else

King Nebuchadnezzar made a gold statue ninety feet tall and nine feet wide and set it up on the plain of Dura in the province of Babylon. Then he sent messages to the high officers, officials, governors, advisers, treasurers, judges, magistrates, and all the provincial officials to come to the dedication of the statue he had set up. So all these officials came and stood before the statue King Nebuchadnezzar had set up. Then a herald shouted out, "People of all races and nations and languages, listen to the king's command! When you hear the sound of the horn, flute, zither, lyre, harp, pipes, and other musical instruments, bow to the ground to worship King Nebuchadnezzar's gold statue. Anyone who refuses to obey will immediately be thrown into a blazing furnace." So at the sound of the musical instruments, all the people, whatever their race or nation or language, bowed to the ground and worshiped the gold statue that King Nebuchadnezzar had set up. But some of the astrologers went to the king and informed on the Jews. They said to King Nebuchadnezzar, "Long live the king! You issued a decree requiring all the people to bow down and worship the gold statue when they hear the sound of the horn, flute, zither, lyre, harp, pipes, and other musical instruments. That decree also states that those who refuse to obey must be thrown into a blazing furnace. But there are some Jews--Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego--whom you have put in charge of the province of Babylon. They pay no attention to you, Your Majesty. They refuse to serve your gods and do not worship the gold statue you have set up." Daniel 3:1 – 12

King Nebuchadnezzar built a gold statue, ninety feet high and nine feet thick. He set it up on the Dura plain in the province of Babylon. He then ordered all the important leaders in the province, everybody who was anybody, to the dedication ceremony of the statue. They all came for the dedication, all the important people, and took their places before the statue that Nebuchadnezzar had erected. A herald then proclaimed in a loud voice: "Attention, everyone! Every race, color, and creed, listen! When you hear the band strike up—all the trumpets and trombones, the tubas and baritones, the drums and cymbals—fall to your knees and worship the gold statue that King Nebuchadnezzar has set up. Anyone who does not kneel and worship shall be thrown immediately into a roaring furnace." The band started to play, a huge band equipped with all the musical instruments of Babylon, and everyone—every race, color, and creed—fell to their knees and worshiped the gold statue that King Nebuchadnezzar had set up. Just then, some Babylonian fortunetellers stepped up and accused the Jews. They said to King Nebuchadnezzar, "Long live the king! You gave strict orders, O king, that when the big band started playing, everyone had to fall to their knees and worship the gold statue, and whoever did not go to their knees and worship it had to be pitched into a roaring furnace. Well, there are some Jews here—Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego—whom you have placed in high positions in the province of Babylon. These men are ignoring you, O king. They don't respect your gods and they won't worship the gold statue you set up."

The other day I heard someone greet their friend, “How it going?” and the guy answered, “I’m living the dream.” Are you living your dream? It looks like King Nebuchadnezzar is trying to live out his dream with the golden headed statue which represented Babylon. In his dream only the head was golden, but here several years later he has a huge skinny idol constructed and overlaid with gold. Had he forgotten that he recognized Daniel’s God as the true god? Didn’t anyone tell him about God, specifically that our God is a jealous god, and that no one is to worship idols? For you shall not worship any other god, for the Lord, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God. Exodus 34:14. (NASB) King Nebuchadnezzar expects everyone to kneel and worship his idol—or else they’ll be thrown into the fiery furnace. Everyone! Who knows where Daniel is? He is not part of this well-known story, but his friends are right there in the midst of the gathering of dignitaries invited to the dedication of this golden statue.

Now Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego won’t worship Nebuchadnezzar’s idol. That is the right thing for men of integrity to do. Like Daniel, his friends are standing up for what is right and following the Hebrew teachings, which are actually God’s commandments. Our God is a jealous God and doesn’t want anything to be worshipped instead of Him. He is worthy of our worship and praise.

One of my favorite verses is Philippians 4:8, Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things. (NASB, emphasis mine) God is worthy of our praise. Through Him then, let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that give thanks to His name. Hebrews 13:15 (NASB). Fruit. Spiritual fruit spoken for the Lord.

Prayer ~ Lord, You are worthy of our praise. May we be people of integrity who stand up and offer praise to You no matter where we are.

[From July 9, 2012]

Daily Bible Reading: Isaiah 1-4

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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Saturday, July 8, 2017

Promise of Salvation…From What or From Whom?

LORD, give me your unfailing love, the salvation that you promised me. Then I can answer those who taunt me, for I trust in your word. Do not snatch your word of truth from me, for your regulations are my only hope. I will keep on obeying your instructions forever and ever. I will walk in freedom, for I have devoted myself to your commandments. Psalm 119:41-45

God promised…salvation. Salvation from what you may ask. From our sins—from the troubles of this world…from our enemies…or from our own selfish desires. God is loving, pure, kind, good, unchanging, truthful, protective, omnipotent, omnipresent, understanding, and keeps His promises. He is awesome. There is no god like our God. He is worthy of our praise and thanksgiving. I am in awe of Him always. In addition to the salvation that He has promised us, He has promised to give us the desires of our hearts.

Take delight in the LORD, and He will give you your heart's desires. Psalm 37:4

Is Salvation and New Life the Desire of Your Heart?

This verse is becoming a favorite of mine. I find it so encouraging that if I find joy—take delight—in the Lord, He will notice and give me what I so long for…my heart’s desires. Note that it is translated as plural “desires” not just “desire.” Desire in Hebrew is mish’alah meaning petition or request. God wants us to communicate with Him. We need to let Him know what our desire is. My greatest desire is to know God and to obey Him. The obedience part is the hard part. It means giving up the things I may want to do, an attitude, or a selfish desire. God isn’t going to give me something that isn’t good for me or for those around me. He will…as He promised…offer me—and anyone—salvation. The first time salvation is mentioned in the Bible is in the book of Genesis when Jacob is blessing His twelve sons right before he dies. This is part of the blessing of the tribe of Dan.

I trust in You for salvation, O LORD! Genesis 49:18

Trusting God is important…as is salvation. David wrote about salvation many times in Psalms. Some are also recorded in 2 Samuel. This verse below is one that David wrote after he was delivered from the hand of his enemy, Saul.

The LORD lives! Praise to my Rock! May God, the Rock of my salvation, be exalted! 2 Samuel 22:47 and Psalm 18:46

Have you ever experienced God rescuing you from an enemy or a terrible situation? Did you praise the Lord? The words trust and obey may be the keys to this scripture. When we trust God we have to take our eyes off ourselves and put them on Him. This creates a relationship between us and God…and give us an opportunity to choose to obey.

As the Scriptures tell us, "Anyone who trusts in Him will never be disgraced." Jew and Gentile are the same in this respect. They have the same Lord, who gives generously to all who call on him. For "Everyone who calls on the name of the LORD will be saved." But how can they call on Him to save them unless they believe in Him? And how can they believe in Him if they have never heard about Him? And how can they hear about Him unless someone tells them? Romans 10:11-14.

Tell someone today what God is doing in your life.

Prayer ~ LORD, You are my strength and shield. I trust You with all my heart. You help me, and my heart is filled with joy. I burst out in songs of thanksgiving. Psalm 28:7. Thank You, Lord, for all that you have done for me…and for my family, friends, and neighbors. My heart is overflowing with joy in knowing You…and knowing that You hear my prayers

Daily Bible Reading: 2 Kings 15; 2 Chronicles 26

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm.

Friday, July 7, 2017

Submission is Better Than Stubbornness

But Samuel replied, "What is more pleasing to the LORD: your burnt offerings and sacrifices or your obedience to His voice? Listen! Obedience is better than sacrifice, and submission is better than offering the fat of rams. Rebellion is as sinful as witchcraft, and stubbornness as bad as worshiping idols. So because you have rejected the command of the LORD, He has rejected you as king." 1 Samuel 15:22-23

King Saul was having a discussion with the prophet Samuel after Saul had disobeyed, yet again, the Lord’s command. Saul learned the hard way that partial obedience is the same as disobedience. [Read 1 Samuel 9-31 for King’s Saul story.] When God said to totally destroy the Amalekites, Saul didn’t totally obey. He let his own will rule over the situation and because he did things his own way…he lost his kingship. It was given to David, a man after God’s own heart.

We don’t have to fight battles and wipe out people like Saul was supposed to do—but we do have to be obedient to please God. Obedience is like a pleasing aroma to the Lord.

The priest must present part of this offering as a special gift to the LORD. This includes all the fat around the internal organs, ... and the priest will burn them on the altar. It is a special gift of food, a pleasing aroma to the LORD. All the fat belongs to the LORD. Leviticus 3:14, 16

This passage goes on to say that the people were not to eat fat. Hmmm. Some diets now are encouraging eating fat—to get rid of the fat in our bodies. Such a dilemma.

You must set aside a tithe of your crops—one tenth of all the crops you harvest each year. Bring this tithe to the designated place of worship—the place the LORD your God chooses for His name to be honored—and eat it there in His presence. This applies to your tithes of grain, new wine, olive oil, and the firstborn males of your flocks and herds. Doing this will teach you always to fear the LORD your God. Deuteronomy 14:22-23

Respect—or fear the Lord—and treat your body as His Temple. Only good fats allowed here. That is my desire—to submit to eating foods that are good for my body rather than stubbornly eating only what I want to eat.

Prayer ~ Lord, as we feast on the great variety of fresh foods that You created and that are so abundant during these summer months, help us to seek good foods that would bring health to our bodies and glory to Your name. I desire no fat in or on my belly!

Daily Bible Reading: Jonah

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

As usual every Friday is Feast Day—Feasting at the King’s Table. We can’t live on just spiritual food …nor can we live on bread alone. We’ve got to have some meat, veggies, fruit and fat. Don’t forget the good fats!

Israeli Market

Monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) are good for our bodies. Those contain antioxidants and actually help to lower cholesterol. Some of the foods that contain monounsaturated fats include: olive oil; avocados; nuts and seed—especially almonds, peanuts, and sunflower seeds; olives; and even chocolate. Try to have a MUFA with each meal, such as 2 tablespoons natural peanut butter, ¼ cup avocado, no more than 10 olives, 2 tablespoons raw nuts, ¼ cup semisweet chocolate chips, or 1 tablespoon olive oil. Watch the serving size of your MUFAs—the calories can add up and deter any weight loss you for which are striving.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm.

Thursday, July 6, 2017

Does God See You as a Treasured Possession?

"The LORD has today declared you to be His people, a treasured possession, as He promised you, and that you should keep all His commandments; and that He will set you high above all nations which He has made, for praise, fame, and honor; and that you shall be a consecrated people to the LORD your God, as He has spoken." Deuteronomy 26:18-19 NASB

Jordan River - Israel

Moses was speaking to the Israelites before he died…before they crossed the Jordan River into the Promised Land. God had once again told Moses to remind the Israelites that they were His chosen people…a treasure possession… and that they should keep His commandments. Jesus told His disciples and us that we should keep His commandments.

If you love Me, you will keep My commandments. John 14:15 NASB

We honor the Father and Jesus when we keep the commandments…but without His love and grace, that is impossible to do. Yet….I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength. Philippians 4:13. Do we need a reminder that…nothing is impossible with God." Luke 1:37? God gives us strength to be obedient…His grace is sufficient for us all…we just need to look to Him and ask for His help. I know that when I try to do things on my own, it never turns out as well as if I ask God for His help. He is my source of inspiration, wisdom and creativity.

Does God see you as His treasured possession? Do you rely on Him to guide you through all things in your life?

Prayer ~ Lord…I trust that You do see me as a Christian—devoted to You. Only through You can I do all things because You give me strength…as well as wisdom and creative ideas. You spark my heart to know when to speak…and when to be quiet. Thanks. I continually need more help everyday with that “when to be quiet” part of my life.

Daily Bible Reading: 2 Kings 14; 2 Chronicles 25

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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Wednesday, July 5, 2017

God Looks at the Heart

But the LORD said to Samuel, "Do not look at his appearance or at the height of his stature, because I have rejected him; for God sees not as man sees, for man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart." 1 Samuel 16:7 NASB

Dance and Rejoice - God Looks at the Heart

God was showing Samuel who would be the next King of Israel from among the sons of Jesse of Bethlehem. The older brothers were considered first—and they looked good to Samuel, but not to God. When David was brought before him, God indicated to Samuel that David was the one. So Samuel anointed him and the Holy Spirit came on him. David was the chosen one. He didn’t instantly become king—and he went through some spiritual warfare and was pursued by King Saul who wanted to kill him. Eventually David did become King of Israel…and God still found in him a man after His own heart. How’s your heart? Are you seeking God with all of your heart, soul, mind and strength? That is my desire in my own life.

Prayer ~ Lord God—just as You spoke to Israel through Moses…"Hear, O Israel! The LORD is our God, the LORD is one! You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. These words, which I am commanding you today, shall be on your heart." Deuteronomy 6:4-6 NASB. These words are on my heart, Lord, and I do love You with all of my heart, soul and might.

Daily Bible Reading: 2 Kings 12-13; 2 Chronicles 24

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm.

Tuesday, July 4, 2017

Promise of Freedom

Is there a conflict, then, between God's law and God's promises? Absolutely not! If the law could give us new life, we could be made right with God by obeying it. But the Scriptures declare that we are all prisoners of sin, so we receive God's promise of freedom only by believing in Jesus Christ. Galatians 3:21-22

Freedom means different things to different people…in different parts of the world and under various circumstances. Today is the day that the United States celebrates its “freedom” while our neighbors to the north, Canada, celebrated their 150^th anniversary of freedom on July 1^st. Both are free nations—but different…or we’d all be one country.

Is spiritual freedom the same for everyone? I think not because we are not all at the same level of spiritual maturity. Sin that binds us spiritually—holding us back from spiritual growth. Christ gives us freedom from sin just as God promised. So we are free. Christ means Messiah. Jesus is the Messiah for whom the Jews were searching and longing. The Savior. Who is Jesus Christ to you? Is He your promise Savior?

And now that you belong to Christ, you are the true children of Abraham. You are his heirs, and God's promise to Abraham belongs to you. Galatians 3:29

Enjoy your freedom in Christ! Set off some spiritual fireworks today—Rejoice and be glad!

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, Let all who seek You rejoice and be glad in You; Let those who love Your salvation say continually, "The LORD be magnified!" Psalm 40:16 NASB

Daily Bible Reading: 2 Kings 9-11

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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Monday, July 3, 2017

Can You Buy Freedom?

God sent Him (His Son, Jesus) to buy freedom for us who were slaves to the law, so that He could adopt us as His very own children. And because we are His children, God has sent the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, prompting us to call out, "Abba, Father." Now you are no longer a slave but God's own child. And since you are His child, God has made you His heir. Galatians 4:5-7.

The Spirit of the Lord

Spiritually, we are adopted by God. Romans 5:15-17 says, For you have not received a spirit of slavery leading to fear again, but you have received a spirit of adoption as sons by which we cry out, "Abba! Father!" The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, heirs also, heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him so that we may also be glorified with Him. As heirs of God we will receive our “inheritance” from our adopted Heavenly Father. That thought is a spiritual meal in itself! So much food for thought. What will our inheritance be? Are you among God’s adopted children? Do you realize that to be His adopted child is just as easy as confessing your sin, agreeing with God that you are a sinner—we all are! Then merely asking for His forgiveness, and accepting that forgiveness. It really is as easy as it sounds, but it takes a decision. What is your “decision”? What will be your inheritance? Can you buy freedom with your inheritance? Our freedom has been paid for by Jesus. God sent Him to buy freedom for us.

Prayer ~ Abba Father, it is such a privilege to be Your child. I praise You. Thank You, Jesus, that You were willing and obedient to pay the price for our freedom.

Daily Bible Reading: 2 Kings 5-8

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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Sunday, July 2, 2017

Use Your Freedom to Serve

For you have been called to live in freedom, my brothers and sisters. But don't use your freedom to satisfy your sinful nature. Instead, use your freedom to serve one another in love. For the whole law can be summed up in this one command: "Love your neighbor as yourself." But if you are always biting and devouring one another, watch out! Beware of destroying one another. So I say, let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. Then you won't be doing what your sinful nature craves. Galatians 5:13-16

God is love.

But anyone who does not love does not know God, for God is love. 1 John 4:8

He didn’t just give us this command to love our neighbor as yourselves in the New Testament. This came from God to mankind a long way back…all the way back to Moses and the Israelites.

The LORD also said to Moses, "Give the following instructions to the entire community of Israel. You must be holy because I, the LORD your God, am holy. …Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against a fellow Israelite, but love your neighbor as yourself. I am the LORD.” Leviticus 19:1-2, 18

God expects us to follow His directions…to be holy and to live by His commands. God is telling us in this passage from Galatians that we need to serve one another in love. To care for others the way that God Himself would care for those around us—our family, friends, co-workers, neighbors…and those whose paths cross ours in places like our favorite restaurant, the grocery store, gas station, doctor’s office or library. Serve others. To serve others transliterated in the Greek as douleuo, meaning to be in bondage, to serve or do service. Also, it is used as…to yield obedience. Who better to be obedient to than to God? That is my goal in life…to love God with all my heart, mind, soul and strength…and to obediently do what He says…summed up in love my neighbor as myself. That seems so simple…but I find it challenging since I often want to do things my way when I want to. But I hear God saying…“It’s My way or the highway, Sweetie!” Actually, He tells me to treat everyone like they are Jesus. Would I ignore Jesus like I’ve ignored my new neighbors? Of course not! I’ve no excuse. But as I tell my husband…Tomorrow is always a good day. It’s another day to do things I need to do for others—not for myself. Some other day will be my day…to do things my way. How about you? Are you doing things your way to please yourself, or God’s way to please Him?

Prayer ~ Lord God, You have called us to live in freedom, serving one another in love. Help me…help us…to love our neighbor as ourselves. May the Holy Spirit guide our lives…our very thoughts, words and actions that we would live lives pleasing and honoring You.

Daily Bible Reading: 2 Kings 1-4

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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Saturday, July 1, 2017

God’s Message at the Right Time

I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them. Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity. This is good and pleases God our Savior, who wants everyone to be saved and to understand the truth. For there is only one God and one Mediator who can reconcile God and humanity—the man Christ Jesus. He gave His life to purchase freedom for everyone. This is the message God gave to the world at just the right time. 1 Timothy 2:1-6

Statue of Liberty - Calling for Freedom

Freedom isn’t free. Someone purchases it…someone gives up something for others to be free. In the United States our military and police men and women give up their time, talents and often their homes so that they can safeguard our country. The USA is known for its freedom. Soon we will all be celebrating that freedom with parades, BBQs and fireworks. It’s time to gather family and friends to celebrate our liberty once again.

A price has been paid for our spiritual freedom, too. Jesus paid it all. He obediently went to the cross and died—as a sacrifice for our sin. When there is sin—someone or something has to pay. With Adam and Eve, God sacrificed an animal in the Garden of Eden to cover their shameful nakedness. God gave up His Son for us…Jesus was the sacrifice. Do you think you are without sin? Consider… For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God's glorious standard. Romans 3:23. Everyone sins…some worse than others…but everyone has sinned. We can’t ever stand before God, in His purity and righteousness if we have sinned. So Jesus took on our sin on Himself when He went to the cross. That means that we can go before God—pure and sin free. Safely home to God one day. What a great hope.

Christ suffered for our sins once for all time. He never sinned, but He died for sinners to bring you safely home to God. He suffered physical death, but He was raised to life in the Spirit. 1 Peter 3:18.

Pray for all people. Everyone needs to know this Good News that Jesus took on our sin…and because of Him we have a great hope to one day go safely home to God. This is a great message at the right time. Now!

Prayer ~ Thank You, Jesus, that You willingly and obediently took on our sins so that one day we can safely go home to God—pure and righteous.

Daily Bible Reading: Obadiah; Psalms 82-83

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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