Banquet With The King

Monday, March 9, 2015

More Dried Bones

Then He said to me, "Son of man, these bones are the whole house of Israel; behold, they say, 'Our bones are dried up and our hope has perished. We are completely cut off.' "Therefore prophesy and say to them, 'Thus says the Lord GOD, "Behold, I will open your graves and cause you to come up out of your graves, My people; and I will bring you into the land of Israel. Then you will know that I am the LORD, when I have opened your graves and caused you to come up out of your graves, My people. I will put My Spirit within you and you will come to life, and I will place you on your own land. Then you will know that I, the LORD, have spoken and done it," declares the LORD.'" Ezekiel 37:11-14

Back to the bones. I’ve been reading that these dried bones Ezekiel prophesied about being resurrected are not people, but political and spiritual resurrections within Israel prior to Christ’s Second Coming. That is exciting when combined with a literal translation of so many Jews returning to Israel—their homeland—and that is a promise from God. See verse 12… I will bring you into the land of Israel. Coming out of their graves could indicate a new spiritual birth. Will the nation know that Jesus Christ is their Messiah? He came first to the Jews and then to the Gentiles. Politically things would change if Jesus were their Messiah—their hope fulfilled. They are still looking for that hope, not as individuals, but as a nation. For Gentiles, Jesus fulfills a personal hope—a promise of an eternal life with Him in Heaven…and a bright future with His enduring presence in our lives…Now! Have you put your hope in Jesus…or are you waiting for something in the future? If so…what are you waiting for? His promise is our hope for TODAY!

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit—please give us grace to see You for who You are, the Helper sent by Jesus. "I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may be with you forever….” John 14:16. Our hope is in Jesus as our personal Savior. Jesus promised that He would never leave us or forsake us…and in You, dear Holy Spirit, that promise is fulfilled. Thank you for Your obedience.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

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

Sunday, March 8, 2015

Show Reverence for The Lord

In the second year of Darius the king, on the first day of the sixth month, the word of the LORD came by the prophet Haggai to Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, governor of Judah, and to Joshua the son of Jehozadak, the high priest, saying, "Thus says the LORD of hosts, 'This people says, "The time has not come, even the time for the house of the LORD to be rebuilt."'" Then the word of the LORD came by Haggai the prophet, saying, "Is it time for you yourselves to dwell in your paneled houses while this house lies desolate?" Now therefore, thus says the LORD of hosts, "Consider your ways!" …Then Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, and Joshua the son of Jehozadak, the high priest, with all the remnant of the people, obeyed the voice of the LORD their God and the words of Haggai the prophet, as the LORD their God had sent him. And the people showed reverence for the LORD. Haggai 1: 1-5, 12

So this time the people—the Israelites—showed reverence for the Lord. Did they actually “consider their ways?” and because of that realize that they needed to show reverence for the Lord? Can we do the same? Consider your ways. Are they pleasing and show reverence to the Lord? The choice is yours. God gives us free will…choose this day whom you will serve. "If it is disagreeable in your sight to serve the LORD, choose for yourselves today whom you will serve: whether the gods which your fathers served which were beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you are living; but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD." Joshua 24:15. Choose.

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, Father God, Jesus…I choose You. May my thoughts, words and actions reverently show that I do choose You. You alone are worthy of my praise and adoration. You are my God.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

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

Saturday, March 7, 2015

Can These Dry Bones Live?

The hand of the LORD was upon me, and He brought me out by the Spirit of the LORD and set me down in the middle of the valley; and it was full of bones. He caused me to pass among them round about, and behold, there were very many on the surface of the valley; and lo, they were very dry. He said to me, "Son of man, can these bones live?" And I answered, "O Lord GOD, You know." Again He said to me, "Prophesy over these bones and say to them, 'O dry bones, hear the word of the LORD.' Thus says the Lord GOD to these bones, 'Behold, I will cause breath to enter you that you may come to life.'" Ezekiel 37:1-5

Resurrection! Those dried, dusty bones were called back to life. Ezekiel was filled once again with the Holy Spirit…and told to prophesy to those bones that they would come back to life. They will be resurrected by the Holy Spirit from the battlefield of dried bones. They were once hopeless and helpless. That this is to happen at the Second Coming of Jesus is so exciting! Bones rising up rattling—instantly covered by flesh and skin and then the whole army of soldiers breathing air again. What a miracle that will be! Do you believe in resurrection? Do you believe in the Second Coming of Christ? It will happen as He said. Therefore be on the alert, for you do not know which day your Lord is coming. But be sure of this, that if the head of the house had known at what time of the night the thief was coming, he would have been on the alert and would not have allowed his house to be broken into. For this reason you also must be ready; for the Son of Man is coming at an hour when you do not think He will. Matthew 24:42-44.

Jesus told us to be ready. Are you ready? Ready or not…here He comes!

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, help me, my family, friends and neighbors be ready for Jesus’ return. Bring to our mind the things we need to remember and know to “be ready”.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

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

Friday, March 6, 2015

Obadiah - Ruin on the Way

The vision of Obadiah. This is what the Lord GOD has said about Edom:

We have heard a message from the LORD; a messenger has been sent among the nations:

“Rise up, and let us go to war against her.” Look, I will make you insignificant among the nations;

you will be deeply despised.

Do not gloat over your brother in the day of his calamity; do not rejoice over the people of Judah in the day of their destruction; do not boastfully mock in the day of distress.

Do not enter the gate of My people in the day of their disaster. Yes, you — do not gloat over their misery in the day of their disaster and do not appropriate their possessions in the day of their disaster. Do not stand at the crossroads to cut off their fugitives, and do not hand over their survivors in the day of distress. For the Day of the LORD is near, against all the nations. As you have done, so it will be done to you; what you deserve will return on your own head. Obadiah1:1-2, 12-15.

So here we have another prophet--Obadiah blessed by the Holy Spirit and proclaiming God's word to Israel. Not much good to say. They had presumptuous hearts and the Lord was bringing them down--putting them in their place. They didn't choose to humble themselves--so God was humbling them. Will God do the same to us? Can we apply this to our lives? God wants us to put Him first--But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be provided for you. Matthew 6:33 (HCSB). He wants four things from those who love Him--and He promises three things. If My people who are called by My name humble themselves, pray and seek My face, and turn from their evil ways, then I will hear from heaven, forgive their sin, and heal their land. 2 Chronicles 7:14 (HCSB). Good trade--great promises from God--hearing us, forgiving us, and healing. What more could we ask for?

Are you willing to...

Humble yourself--putting God first instead of your own desires?

Pray?

Seek God--face to face--that would be looking Him in the eye?

Turn from any evil-thoughts, deeds, or actions--in your life?

Not much to ask for--but everything to give to God.

Prayer – My beloved God, just as You taught...do unto others as you would have them do unto you. I humbly place myself into Your capable hands—putting You first. Trading my humble self—continuing to give up evil ways—and offering prayers I seek Your face and your ways. I claim your promise to forgive my sin and ask that You would heal this land in which I live. May more people humbly come each day to seek and find salvation in You, Jesus, and be filled with Your Holy Spirit.

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

God wants us to humble ourselves. 2 Chronicles 7:14. Can you eat Humble Pie?

Humble Pie

3 large eggs

½ cup butter, melted and cooled

1½ cups sugar

2 Tbsp flour

2 Tbsp vinegar

1 Tbsp vanilla

1 unbaked pie crust

Beat eggs. Add melted butter, sugar, flour, vinegar and vanilla. Mix well. Pour into pie shell and bake 45 minutes at 300 degrees.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

Thursday, March 5, 2015

Sci-fi Visions

Then the cherubim lifted up their wings with the wheels beside them, and the glory of the God of Israel hovered over them. The glory of the LORD went up from the midst of the city and stood over the mountain which is east of the city. And the Spirit lifted me up and brought me in a vision by the Spirit of God to the exiles in Chaldea. So the vision that I had seen left me. Then I told the exiles all the things that the LORD had shown me. Ezekiel 11:22-25

Ezekiel had quite an interesting time as a prophet—filled with the Holy Spirit. The visions that he had rival present day sci-fi movies. Flying cherubim—angels—with wheels. Can you imagine how the Jews in exile reacted when they heard Ezekiel’s stories? Do you think that they believed him? Angels flying around in wheeled vehicles. Really!?! If those stories were told today on the big screen people would be sitting on the edge of their chairs with their mouths hanging open waiting to see what would happen next. But then there are more extravagant plots and stories out there that would make Ezekiel’s stories boring and mundane. The Holy Spirit filled and guided Ezekiel. When the vision left him, he was sent to tell the exiles what the Lord showed him. Ezekiel was obedient—unlike the rebellious Israelites.

Which are you like…Ezekiel or the Israelites?

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, I get it that obedience is important. Guide me that I would be obedient like Ezekiel.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

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

Wednesday, March 4, 2015

The Lord Knows Israel

Then the Spirit of the LORD fell upon me, and He said to me, "Say, 'Thus says the LORD, so you think, house of Israel, for I know your thoughts. ...” Now it came about as I prophesied, that Pelatiah son of Benaiah died. Then I fell on my face and cried out with a loud voice and said, "Alas, Lord GOD! Will You bring the remnant of Israel to a complete end?" Then the word of the LORD came to me, saying, "Son of man, your brothers, your relatives, your fellow exiles and the whole house of Israel, all of them, are those to whom the inhabitants of Jerusalem have said, 'Go far from the LORD; this land has been given us as a possession.'" Therefore say, 'Thus says the Lord GOD, though I had removed them far away among the nations and though I had scattered them among the countries, yet I was a sanctuary for them a little while in the countries where they had gone."' "Therefore say, 'Thus says the Lord GOD, I will gather you from the peoples and assemble you out of the countries among which you have been scattered, and I will give you the land of Israel."' Ezekiel 11:5, 13-17

"Alas, Lord GOD! Will You bring the remnant of Israel to a complete end?" Netanyahu spoke to the US Congress about the Iranian desire to have nuclear arms which could bring an end to the nation of Israel and any hope for peace around the world. The enemy of your enemy is your enemy. Israel is strong in itself. It will defend itself and it doesn’t stand alone. Netanyahu spoke with hope of the United States standing with Israel—because we all stand against tyranny. He closed his speech with a statement that message Moses gave. “Be strong and resolute. Neither fear or dread them.” May God Bless Israel and the United States of America.

Where do you stand in regard to Middle East policy? Should Iran be allowed to have nuclear weapons? Who will stop them? God is in control.

Prayer ~ God, we trust that You have a plan—for Your people in Israel and for everyone around the world. We do ask Your blessing on Israel and the United States. Please give wisdom to those making decisions about nuclear arms for Iran.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

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

Tuesday, March 3, 2015

Respect in Worship

It came about in the sixth year, on the fifth day of the sixth month, as I was sitting in my house with the elders of Judah sitting before me, that the hand of the Lord GOD fell on me there. ... He stretched out the form of a hand and caught me by a lock of my head; and the Spirit lifted me up between earth and heaven and brought me in the visions of God to Jerusalem, to the entrance of the north gate of the inner court, where the seat of the idol of jealousy, which provokes to jealousy, was located. And behold, the glory of the God of Israel was there, like the appearance which I saw in the plain. Ezekiel 8:1, 3-4

Visions from the Holy Spirit. Ezekiel had an earlier vision a little more than a year before this that was his initial call into his prophetic ministry. The Spirit then entered me and made me stand on my feet, and He spoke with me …. Ezekiel 3:24. God sent him to the rebellious Israelites.

In this passage the Holy Spirit gives Ezekiel another vision of Jerusalem—lifting him up between earth and heaven. Ezekiel had a preview of the Israelites worshiping idols and other Gods. Kneeling down in the inner court of Temple, facing the east prostrating themselves in worship. What does that image bring to mind? Facing the east in a prostrate worship position. Sounds like a group of Islamic worshipers today. It is disrespectful to worship another god in the Temple. Respect is everything…even in a vision. Are you respectful in your worship of our God—Father, Son and Holy Spirit? We don’t have to face the Temple…or where the Temple once stood to worship the true God. Respect begins with a humble and obedient heart. Consider this scripture…A son honors his father, and a servant his master. Then if I am a father, where is My honor? And if I am a master, where is My respect? says the LORD of hosts to you, O priests who despise My name. But you say, 'How have we despised Your name?' Malachi 1:6. Think about how you worship the Lord…is it just with singing, praying and listening to a sermon? Or do you worship daily by reading His Word, praying, maybe singing…and offering Him your undivided attention?

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, accept my worship for You are the true God—worthy of my praise.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

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

Monday, March 2, 2015

Habakkuk and the Holy Spirit Speaks

This is the message that the prophet Habakkuk received in a vision. ... Must I forever see these evil deeds? Why must I watch all this misery? Wherever I look, I see destruction and violence. I am surrounded by people who love to argue and fight. ... O LORD my God, my Holy One, you who are eternal--surely you do not plan to wipe us out? O LORD, our Rock, you have sent these Babylonians to correct us, to punish us for our many sins. But you are pure and cannot stand the sight of evil. Will you wink at their treachery? Should you be silent while the wicked swallow up people more righteous than they? Are we only fish to be caught and killed? Are we only sea creatures that have no leader? Must we be strung up on their hooks and caught in their nets while they rejoice and celebrate? Habakkuk 1:1, 3, 12-15 NLT

Habakkuk had a couple of problems—good questions that you may have asked too…when you consider the Israel’s history. One was “Why does God allow wicked practice to continue in Judah?” and the second was, “Why will God use wicked people to punish Judah?” Both were good questions…and God, as the Holy Spirit, spoke in a vision to Habakkuk to answer him. Then the LORD answered me and said, "Record the vision and inscribe it on tablets, that the one who reads it may run. For the vision is yet for the appointed time; it hastens toward the goal and it will not fail. Though it tarries, wait for it; for it will certainly come, it will not delay.” Habakkuk 2:2-3.

After he receives the answers to his questions, Habakkuk writes a beautiful tribute to God because of his faith—and trust in God, no matter what happens.

Though the fig tree should not blossom and there be no fruit on the vines, though the yield of the olive should fail and the fields produce no food, though the flock should be cut off from the fold and there be no cattle in the stalls, yet I will exult in the LORD, I will rejoice in the God of my salvation. The Lord GOD is my strength, and He has made my feet like hinds' feet, and makes me walk on my high places. Habakkuk 3:17-19

Do you have that faith like Habakkuk? Are you willing to praise and exult the Lord no matter what happens? Do you feel that it is God who gives you strength?

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, continue to guide and direct me even when things get tough—when there is no fruit on the vine, no cattle in the barn and the cupboards seem empty. I praise You God—my Lord and Savior for You are my shield and my strength.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

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

Sunday, March 1, 2015

Lamentations – Mourning for Jerusalem

See, O LORD, for I am in distress; my spirit is greatly troubled; my heart is overturned within me, for I have been very rebellious. In the street the sword slays; in the house it is like death. They have heard that I groan; there is no one to comfort me; all my enemies have heard of my calamity; they are glad that You have done it. Oh, that You would bring the day which You have proclaimed, that they may become like me. Lamentations 1:20-21

Where is the Holy Spirit in Lamentations? Jeremiah wrote these five poems crying out about the destruction of Jerusalem and the Temple when the Babylonians overtook the city and took many of the inhabitants into captivity. There is no one to comfort me…. Jeremiah felt that there was no one to comfort him in his mourning over the loss in Jerusalem. Was the Holy Spirit comforting him? The LORD'S lovingkindnesses indeed never cease, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness. "The LORD is my portion," says my soul, therefore I have hope in Him." The LORD is good to those who wait for Him, to the person who seeks Him. It is good that he waits silently for the salvation of the LORD. Lamentations 3:22-26. I think that the Holy Spirit was comforting Jeremiah. That is one of the jobs—the responsibilities of the Holy Spirit. To comfort. Like Isaiah…The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is upon me, for the LORD has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to comfort the brokenhearted and to proclaim that captives will be released and prisoners will be freed. Isaiah 61:1 NLT. Have you been “set free” and saved—claimed your salvation in the Lord? If not—choose today who you will serve…God (Father, Son & Holy Spirit) or yourself? I chose to serve God.

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, I praise You and claim the promise that Your compassion is new every morning. I am greatful forYour lovingkindness to me. It is new every morning. As I fall asleep…grant me the strength to continue to lift up my brothers and sisters in the Lord—that they would be blessed—free from pain. Keep us all in your watchful care.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

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

Saturday, February 28, 2015

Jeremiah Listened – Do We?

The LORD gave me this message: "I knew you before I formed you in your mother's womb. Before you were born I set you apart and appointed you as my prophet to the nations." "O Sovereign LORD," I said, "I can't speak for you! I'm too young!" The LORD replied, "Don't say, 'I'm too young,' for you must go wherever I send you and say whatever I tell you. And don't be afraid of the people, for I will be with you and will protect you. I, the LORD, have spoken!" Then the LORD reached out and touched my mouth and said, "Look, I have put my words in your mouth! ... I will pronounce judgment on my people for all their evil—for deserting me and burning incense to other gods. Yes, they worship idols made with their own hands! Get up and prepare for action. Go out and tell them everything I tell you to say. Do not be afraid of them, or I will make you look foolish in front of them. ... They will fight you, but they will fail. For I am with you, and I will take care of you. I, the LORD, have spoken!" Jeremiah 1:4-9, 16-17, 19 NLT

Youth. They can be so afraid…but then can’t we all. Are you comfortable speaking in front of a large group of people? Even a small group of people—especially with a message from the highest one? Do you think you’ll make a fool of yourself? God was giving Jeremiah the words to say—and once again, He promised to be with Jeremiah and take care of him. The Holy Spirit spoke to and through Jeremiah for more than forty years. What a message he had to deliver to the people of Israel—doom and judgment. Other nations were prophesied against also including Egypt, the Philistine, Moab, Ammon, Edom, Damascus, Arabia, Elam and Babylon. God said to “tell them everything I tell you to say.” God was speaking—and He wasn’t being soft or joking—He was serious about what He expected from the Israelites and was deeply offended by the people of the other countries, too.

For the LORD of Heaven's Armies has not abandoned Israel and Judah. He is still their God, even though their land was filled with sin against the Holy One of Israel. Jeremiah 51:5 NLT. What a promise! God’s army of heavenly angels has not abandoned—given up on—Israel. God makes promises that He WILL keep. He is still the God of Israel…and like He has promised those who love and serve Him…He will never leave or forsake them—even if they’ve sinned again Him. He is God—He is in control. Everyone has choices—and there are repercussions for making poor or selfish choices. We still live by the opportunities for choices and consequences now. Will you choose to honor God today with your thoughts, words and actions?

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, Jeremiah was reluctant at first to speak for You—but he was obedient. Help me to be obedient, too.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted. Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm

Friday, February 27, 2015

Zephaniah Who?

Be silent before the Lord GOD! For the day of the LORD is near, for the LORD has prepared a sacrifice, He has consecrated His guests. Zephaniah 1:7

Zephaniah who…or maybe that should be where? Zephaniah means “he who the Lord has hidden.” The Lord consecrated His guests—did that mean that they were filled with the Holy Spirit? Consecrated—set apart. The day of the Lord is that day, that terrible day… For see, the day of the LORD is coming—the terrible day of His fury and fierce anger. The land will be made desolate, and all the sinners destroyed with it. Isaiah 13:9 NLT. That day is near—always near. The Lord continued the prophesy on Judah through Zephaniah saying… It will come about at that time that I will search Jerusalem with lamps, and I will punish the men who are stagnant in spirit, who say in their hearts, 'The LORD will not do good or evil!' Zephaniah 1:12. Men who are stagnant…sluggish or apathetic…will be punished. Can we apply this to people of our times and place, too? Apathetic spirits, not caring about God? God is in our midst—whether we know it or not. He cares about us…about mankind—whether we want and seek His love or not. The LORD your God is in your midst, a victorious warrior. He will exult over you with joy, He will be quiet in His love, He will rejoice over you with shouts of joy. Zephaniah 3:17. Give God joy in your life…seek Him. Don’t be apathetic. The day of the Lord is near. Are you ready for Him?

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, consecrate my life. May I be a guest at Your table and bring You honor and glory in all that I think, do and say as the day of the Lord draws near.

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

Since February is National Heart Month, it is a good time to consider eating good foods and exercising. Exercise at least 20 minutes every day and then feast on the bounty God has provided for us. Here are some healthy heart foods to consider in your menu planning:

· Chick peas – hummus, minestrone soup

· Sardines and salmon – high in omega 3’s

· Leafy greens – contain magnesium essential to a healthy heart – includes spinach, kale, Swiss chard, broccoli, romaine lettuce

· Wine – in moderation if your religion and personal conviction allow. Adults only, dilute if you wish, but do serve your kiddos concord grape juice, no sugar added.

· Milk – even almond or coconut milk – high in calcium and Vitamin D

· Almonds

· Oats

· Fresh fruits – in the colors of the rainbow

What can you do with these food items? How about a spinach salad with salmon, almonds, chick peas and a red wine vinegar and olive oil dressing? A little oatmeal with fresh blueberries, cinnamon, honey, and milk for breakfast rounds out the food list. So choose some healthy foods and feast on them, not just today or during February, but include good fresh foods at every meal all year around. Shop the outside aisles of your supermarket—that’s where the fresh foods are located. Enjoy a Banquet at the Lord’s Table.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted. Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm

Thursday, February 26, 2015

The Holy Spirit for All Mankind

Blow a trumpet in Zion, and sound an alarm on My holy mountain! Let all the inhabitants of the land tremble, for the day of the LORD is coming; surely it is near…. Joel 2:1

Thus you will know that I am in the midst of Israel, and that I am the LORD your God, and there is no other; and My people will never be put to shame. It will come about after this that I will pour out My Spirit on all mankind; and your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, your young men will see visions. Even on the male and female servants I will pour out My Spirit in those days. Joel 2:27-29

The day of the Lord will be an unexpected, horrific day…with the Lord’s anger released in a dark and confusing world.

For see, the day of the LORD is coming--the terrible day of His fury and fierce anger. The land will be made desolate, and all the sinners destroyed with it. Isaiah 13:9 NLT

Yes, the day of the LORD will be dark and hopeless, without a ray of joy or hope. Amos 5:20 NLT

The sun will become dark, and the moon will turn blood red before that great and glorious day of the LORD arrives. Acts 2:20 NLT

But the day of the Lord will come as unexpectedly as a thief. Then the heavens will pass away with a terrible noise, and the very elements themselves will disappear in fire, and the earth and everything on it will be found to deserve judgment. 2 Peter 3:10 NLT

On that day God will pour out His Spirit on all mankind. What a promise! Not that the Holy Spirit would be on everyone who is good…or rich…or kind…but on everyone. God’s people—Israel—would never be put to shame. Another awesome promise. Most of the world is so bent now on destroying Israel…either physically or just politically. So few stand behind and beside them. Even within the United States there are strong opinions to for the US to be neutral with Israel and Palestine (www.counterpunch.org) while Israel is developing strong economic ties with China and India. God will always be on Israel’s side in the end. They are still His chosen people. The Holy Spirit anointed and spoke through Joel not only to Israel, but to the whole world.

"At the time of those events," says the LORD, "when I restore the prosperity of Judah and Jerusalem, I will gather the armies of the world into the valley of Jehoshaphat. There I will judge them for harming my people, my special possession, for scattering my people among the nations, and for dividing up my land. ... But Judah will be filled with people forever, and Jerusalem will endure through all generations. I will pardon my people's crimes, which I have not yet pardoned; and I, the LORD, will make my home in Jerusalem with my people." Joel 3:1-2, 20-21 NLT

Where do you stand in regards to Israel? Will you pray for them? Are you ready for the day of the Lord?

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, guide our hearts, thoughts, minds, words and actions that all we think, say and do in regards to You and Your chosen people would honor You. May we live to serve You…and the people You love…the Christians and the Jews.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted. Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm

Wednesday, February 25, 2015

Message Through Hosea

The LORD gave this message to Hosea son of Beeri during the years when Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah were kings of Judah, and Jeroboam son of Jehoash was king of Israel. Hosea 1:1 NLT

Hear the word of the LORD, O people of Israel! The LORD has brought charges against you, saying: "There is no faithfulness, no kindness, no knowledge of God in your land. Hosea 4:1 NLT

The Holy Spirit speaks to the people of the Northern Kingdom—Israel or Ephraim—through Hosea for fifty years. He uses Hosea’s life and marriage to a harlot to influence His people—to show them their own way. My people consult their wooden idol, and their diviner's wand informs them; for a spirit of harlotry has led them astray, and they have played the harlot, departing from their God. Hosea 4:12. Through all the prophesies of Hosea, God does not give up on His chosen people—Israel. God declares… I will not execute My fierce anger; I will not destroy Ephraim again. For I am God and not man, the Holy One in your midst, and I will not come in wrath. Hosea 11:9. God shows His love and mercy to Israel. May we all heed the advice given to Israel. Let those who are wise understand these things. Let those with discernment listen carefully. The paths of the LORD are true and right, and righteous people live by walking in them. But in those paths sinners stumble and fall. Hosea 14:9 NLT. May we be wise and understand these things.

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, give us wisdom and understanding that we would live to please You and honor You in all that we think, say and do.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted. Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm

Tuesday, February 24, 2015

Amos the Prophet

The words of Amos, who was among the sheepherders from Tekoa, which he envisioned in visions concerning Israel in the days of Uzziah king of Judah, and in the days of Jeroboam son of Joash, king of Israel, two years before the earthquake. Amos 1:1

Amos was given a vision by the Holy Spirit to guide him as to what to tell the people of Israel and of the neighboring countries. He was just an ordinary guy—a sheep breeder, but obedient to the Lord.

Amos didn’t consider himself a prophet, but God had other ideas. Then Amos replied to Amaziah (the priest of Bethel), "I am not a prophet, nor am I the son of a prophet; for I am a herdsman and a grower of sycamore figs. But the LORD took me from following the flock and the LORD said to me, 'Go prophesy to My people Israel.'" Amos 7:14-15. The Holy Spirit gave Amos several prophesies about Israel with the final one foretelling about the last days and a future blessing. It is this prophesy that tells about restoring the captivity of His people, rebuilding the cities and replanting the land. Permanently. That is exciting news for the Jews that has encouraged them for centuries. Do you pray regularly for the nation of Israel?

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, just as You gave Amos a vision for Israel, give us insight for understanding of the nation of Israel. God chose Israel to be His chosen people, so I pray that You would bless and guide them and give the people there the strength that they need to face the challenges ahead for them. Just as Moses told Israel…"Be strong and courageous, do not be afraid or tremble at them, for the LORD your God is the one who goes with you. He will not fail you or forsake you." Deuteronomy 31:6.

Happy Birthday, Debbie. May God continue to richly bless you as you serve Him and create such wonderful quilting projects using the gifts with which He has so amazingly blessed you!

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted. Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm

Monday, February 23, 2015

Humbly Honored by the Lord

David became greater and greater, for the LORD God of hosts was with him. ... And David realized that the LORD had established him as king over Israel, and that He had exalted his kingdom for the sake of His people Israel. 2 Samuel 5:10, 12

Wow! What an awesome revelation to David—chosen and exalted by the Lord God Himself. How humbling. The LORD said, "I have made a covenant with David, my chosen servant. I have sworn this oath to him: 'I will establish your descendants as kings forever; they will sit on your throne from now until eternity.'" Psalm 89:3-4 NLT.

All Christians today can claim to be chosen…For God knew His people in advance, and He chose them to become like His Son, so that His Son would be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. And having chosen them, He called them to come to him. And having called them, He gave them right standing with himself. And having given them right standing, He gave them His glory. What shall we say about such wonderful things as these? If God is for us, who can ever be against us? Romans 8:29-31 NLT

We always thank God for all of you and pray for you constantly. As we pray to our God and Father about you, we think of your faithful work, your loving deeds, and the enduring hope you have because of our Lord Jesus Christ. We know, dear brothers and sisters, that God loves you and has chosen you to be his own people. 1Thessalonians 1:2-4 NLT. Chosen and set apart. Of all the billions of people in the world over all the ages…and He has chosen you and chosen me to be His children. So you have not received a spirit that makes you fearful slaves. Instead, you received God's Spirit when He adopted you as His own children. Now we call Him, "Abba, Father." Romans 8:15 NLT. David didn’t have to be “adopted”—he was part of Abraham’s family so he was under the original covenant. Those of us who are not Jews have to be chosen…adopted to be part of God’s family. What an honor—a privilege. Are you part of God’s family?

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, thank you for choosing me, as well as members of my family and friends, to be part of Your family. I am humbled and honored to be a child of the King. Help me to live today in such a way as to bring glory and honor to You.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted. Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm

Sunday, February 22, 2015

Glory in the Inner Court

The glory of the LORD entered the temple by way of the gate that faced east. Then the Spirit lifted me up and brought me to the inner court, and the glory of the LORD filled the temple. While the man was standing beside me, I heard someone speaking to me from the temple. He said to me: "Son of man, this is the place of My throne and the place for the soles of My feet, where I will dwell among the Israelites forever. The house of Israel and their kings will no longer defile My holy name by their religious prostitution and by the corpses of their kings at their high places. Ezekiel 43:4-7 HCSB

Imagine the Spirit of God picking you up and putting you in the inner court of the Temple…and the Glory of God surrounding you. Like Ezekiel. How awesome would that be?! The omnipresent power of God enveloping you with His strength and energy—a radiant light of virtually all colors moving and whirling about the inner court space. A warmth and love speaking to you—and you hear Him with more than your ears…with your whole being. He is holy. You want to fall on your face. He is speaking to you about “forever”…forever He will dwell—live…reside…inhabit—in this land with the Israelites. Forever. Forever seated on His throne with His feet on the earth…on Israeli soil. Blessed are those people who will see the Lord on His throne. Blessed are those who feel His presence daily. Do you feel His presence in your life? Practice that. Feeling His presence. Enter into His Holy Inner Court and worship Him. The choice is yours. Life is a series of choices…you choose.

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, I choose You. To know You more fully and to serve You more completely. Please reveal more of Yourself to me every day.

Happy 6th Birthday, Grandson Isaac!

Happy Birthday, Vicky. Blessings.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

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

Ask For Help

Save me, O God, by Your name, and vindicate me by Your power. Hear my prayer, O God; give ear to the words of my mouth. For strangers have risen against me and violent men have sought my life; they have not set God before them. Selah. Behold, God is my helper; The Lord is the sustainer of my soul. He will recompense the evil to my foes; destroy them in Your faithfulness. Willingly I will sacrifice to You; I will give thanks to Your name, O LORD, for it is good. For He has delivered me from all trouble, and my eye has looked with satisfaction upon my enemies. Psalm 54:1-7

David wrote this while hiding from Saul—and being revealed by the treacherous Ziphites. (See 1 Samuel 23.) He was asking God—the Holy Spirit—to save him from his enemies. A little later God’s promise is shown in 2 Samuel 5 when David becomes king over Israel. God certainly did bless David, as He rescued him from his enemies—before and after he became king.

Who are your enemies? I’ve decided that I am my own worst enemy…my attitude and selfish desires—dare I say rebellious—to have my own time…to do my own will—have set me up to be a victim of a lack of time. Time to do God’s work—to serve and encourage other.

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit—please continue to help me surrender my attitude towards others and my selfish desires that I would be in step with Your will…walking down Your path. I know there will be troubles in this world…but I know that You have promised to be with us…to never leave us or forsake us (Deuteronomy 31:6,8). Help me, my family, friends and neighbors to be strong and courageous as we face the circumstances of life. May we all rejoice in knowing You and Your lovingkindness.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted. Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm

Saturday, February 21, 2015

Calling Out to the Holy Spirit

Then Solomon stood before the altar of the LORD in the presence of all the assembly of Israel and spread out his hands toward heaven. He said, "O LORD, the God of Israel, there is no God like You in heaven above or on earth beneath, keeping covenant and showing lovingkindness to Your servants who walk before You with all their heart, who have kept with Your servant, my father David, that which You have promised him; indeed, You have spoken with Your mouth and have fulfilled it with Your hand as it is this day." 1 Kings 8:22-24

This doesn’t look like a filling of the Holy Spirit—but Solomon is offering a praise to God—there is no God like our God. God in His lovingkindness revealed Himself as the God of Israel. Covenant. That word appears 316 times in the NASB version of the Bible. Keeping a covenant is a very honorable thing…and God made that covenant with Abram—it wasn’t Abram chasing after God to get Him to make a covenant. God made the covenant—an alliance—a divine promise that He would provide for Abram and his offspring. Read Genesis 15. Later God changes Abram’s name to Abraham. So here Solomon is remembering the covenant that God had made with Abraham. He was part of Abraham’s family…and most recently God promised to establish the throne of David forever…Solomon’s father’s throne…that was now his throne. Solomon’s prayer continues on to ask God for His continued presence and protection. Protection that would be provided by the Holy Spirit. How often do we ask for protection from the Holy Spirit? Every time we ask for traveling mercy…for safety for ourselves, our family and friends. When we are afraid of something we call out to God…protect us. Yes. We call out to God…to the Holy Spirit.

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, please protect me, my family, friends and neighbors. Help us to make good decisions and put a hedge of protection around us as trouble draws near—as it inevitably will. Thank You for Your quiet love, guidance and security.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted. Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm

Friday, February 20, 2015

Lovingkindness

When your days are complete and you lie down with your fathers, I will raise up your descendant after you, who will come forth from you, and I will establish his kingdom. He shall build a house for My name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever. I will be a father to him and he will be a son to Me; when he commits iniquity, I will correct him with the rod of men and the strokes of the sons of men, but My lovingkindness shall not depart from him, as I took it away from Saul, whom I removed from before you. Your house and your kingdom shall endure before Me forever; your throne shall be established forever. 2 Samuel 7:12-16

Nathan spoke these words of God to David. So it would be David’s son who would build God’s house—not David. Not only that, but God promised that His lovingkindness—that of the Holy Spirit. Lovingkindness is a word that combines goodness, kindness, and faithfulness. Those are part of the fruit of the Spirit—see Galatians 5:22… But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. Galatians 5:22-23. What a promise—lovingkindness would not depart from David’s son! But Solomon didn’t live up to God’s standards. God is still faithful in His love for even His unfaithful followers. David wrote about God’s lovingkindness…The LORD is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in lovingkindness. He will not always strive with us, nor will He keep His anger forever. He has not dealt with us according to our sins, nor rewarded us according to our iniquities. For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is His lovingkindness toward those who fear Him. Psalm 103:8-11. God is worthy of our love and respect. How are you showing Him respect and sharing with others God’s lovingkindness today?

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, shower me with Your lovingkindness. I am unworthy, but like David, I am repentant. I do not want to hold onto anger. I deeply respect, love and honor You all the days of my life and I look forward to dwelling in Your house forever.

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

Are you giving up something for Lent? Some people have the Lenten custom of giving up sweets, favorite foods, coffee, sodas, a meal each day, sleeping in a comfortable bed, or a favorite television programs. Are they doing this in devotion to Jesus? If you abstain from those or other things will that help you focus on Jesus, His life, ministry and His death? Consider a meatless or fish meal for today.

Grilled Fish Salad
1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon ground ginger
¼ teaspoon dried parsley flakes
¼ teaspoon pepper
4 fish fillets (6 ounces each) – salmon, cod, halibut, tilapia or other fish
1 package (5 ounces) spring mix salad greens
1 large cucumber, chopped
1 large tomato, chopped

½ cup crumbled goat cheese

¼ cup red wine vinaigrette

Rinse and dry fish. Sprinkle with lemon juice. Combine the seasonings; sprinkle over fish. Moisten a paper towel with cooking oil; using long-handled tongs, lightly coat the grill rack. Place fish skin side down on grill rack. Grill, covered, over medium heat or broil 4 in. from the heat for 10-12 minutes or until fish flakes easily with a fork.

In a large bowl, combine the salad greens, cucumber, tomato and goat cheese; divide among four plates. Top with fish; drizzle with vinaigrette. Yield: 4 servings.

Adapted from: http://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/feta-salmon-salad#ixzz3SEfhRuGB

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted. Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm

Thursday, February 19, 2015

The Holy Spirit Guiding the Prophet

But in the same night the word of the LORD came to Nathan, saying, "Go and say to My servant David, 'Thus says the LORD, are you the one who should build Me a house to dwell in?'" ... In accordance with all these words and all this vision, so Nathan spoke to David. 2 Samuel 7:4-5, 17

These verses and the verses in between (vv. 6-16) illustrate how God used the prophet Nathan to convey His message to David. God spoke to Nathan and gave him a vision. Now days when someone has a vision it is more likely that they are just seeing the purpose or “big picture” of something—but this may have been a real vision. Technicolor? Surround sound? At any rate, Nathan was guided by God—the Holy Spirit—to speak to David. David really wanted to build a house for God…to keep the Ark of the Covenant and to provide a permanent place to worship God. Nathan revealed God’s message to David…and then David spoke to God himself. David had really been through too much as a warrior—too much killing for God to allow him to build a sacred and holy temple for the Lord. God requires holiness—purity. With all the sin that David had committed—even though he repented—he was still too unclean to prepare a holy place for the living God. Keep on reading more of 2 Samuel 7. David acknowledges how awesome our God is…For this reason You are great, O Lord GOD; for there is none like You, and there is no God besides You, according to all that we have heard with our ears. 2 Samuel 7:22. So do you recognize God as awesome…that there is no other God like Him?

Are you looking for God—for the Holy Spirit—during this season of Lent?

You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart. Jeremiah 29:13.

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, I am searching for You with all of my heart. Please continue to reveal Yourself to me…and to guide me in all that I think, say and do.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted. Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm