Proverbs 11:11 - Be a Blessing

Proverbs 11:11

By the blessing of the upright, 

     a city is exalted,

But by the mouth of the wicked

     it is torn down. 

Message: Be a Blessing

Time: Proverbs records multiple individuals as its author with Solomon as the principal author. Solomon died in 931 BC though most think the book was likely in its final form sometime before the end of Hezekiah’s reign in 686 BC. It is a book that instructs people on the path of wisdom. It speaks to all of life and living our lives under the authority and direction of God.

What the Lord is Saying: Yesterday in Sunday School we were talking about our words and paying complement to others and listening and smiling and how that helps give others joy. The focus was on joy in Sunday School and the first part of this verse speaks to this idea - when we pronounce a blessing on someone or encourage them, they are exalted. 

I notice this occurs also in prayer and when I pray for others. They are encouraged that I have taken the time to lift them up and their needs. The commentators that I like to read mention sincere prayers, and wise and wholesome counsels in regards to this verse. 

Prayer: Lord, these proverbs are simple words. Yet, I know they have strong meanings. I notice in me this need to be right or to speak truth or notice things in observation and to make those things known and think in the process that I am shedding light on the situation. I do this online throwing words out to people, to help correct situations and yet along the way it seems that it might make things worse. In these moments Lord I need to be careful with my words. Help me to encourage others. 

Ruth 4:13-22 - A Story of Hesed

Ruth 4:13-22

So Boaz took Ruth, and she became his wife, and he had relations with her. And the Lord enabled her to conceive, and she gave birth to a son...they named him Obed. He is the father of Jesse, the father of David. (v.13, 17)

Message: A Story of Hesed

Time: According to Jewish tradition, Samuel wrote the book of Ruth. The events of Ruth occurred sometime between 1160 BC and 1100 BC. This book stands as a ray of light, showing the power of the love between God and His faithful people, even during difficult times that were present. It is written from Naomi's point of view. Ruth is the gift God placed in Naomi's life. 

What the Lord is Saying: Well, Boaz now marries Ruth. "He went into her." She gave birth to a son as "the Lord enabled her." The women of Bethlehem or the area let Naomi know God has provided a redeemer. They call her "Blessed." God has provided. This is a blessing of the Lord - God's provision. Reminds me in the moment of what God has blessed me with and provided me. My wife Pamela, my children - Tyson, Megan, Derek. These are God's gifts. He provides these gifts and I need to be more appreciative - every day. Forgive me Lord. 

The women go on in verse 15 to continuing words of encouragement. These are good women and say things that need to be said and say things that God has done. He is "a restorer of life." Despite all that Naomi lost and Ruth lost by losing the men of their life, God brought her home and he has restored her life. He has been "a sustainer of your old age." Again, God supports and nourishes her and provides what she needs. "Your daughter-in-law, who loves you and is better to you than seven sons." Sons are more important than daughters always. This is how the name is carried on. And yet they exclaim that Ruth is better than 7 sons. Seven even being a number in the Bible that is often showing completeness or perfection. But, no, Ruth is better. 

Then the women name Ruth's son - Obed (v. 17). 

And then a history lesson is given: generations of Perez: Perez - Hezron - Ram - Amminadab - Nahshon - Salmon - Boaz - Obed - Jesse - David. 

Naturally, all culminates with David. 

Hesed is kindness, but it goes beyond mere kindness to a covenantal kindness. It is unwavering commitment and refers often to God's unchanging love for Israel and for David. Ruth showed this type of commitment to Naomi by staying with her, even after her husband died. Boaz showed this type of care and kindness by caring about Elimelech and his family name, above his own. These individuals showed a loyal love to one another, an unwavering commitment that culminates in the royal line of David. 

Summary: Boaz marries Ruth and they give birth to Obed. The women of Bethlehem speak blessings on Naomi. 

Promise: God has shown us unwavering covenant loyalty and love—hesed—and we are to show the same in return to Him and to His people.

Prayer: Oh Father, you are eternally blessing me and showing your favor on my life. You have provided for me and sustained me. You have an amazing commitment to me and I praise you. Thank you for these words and the blessing they are to me. Give me strength each day. Help me to love others and be committed to them as you have blessed me. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.

Proverbs 10:22 - True Riches

Proverbs 10:22

It is the blessing of the Lord that makes rich,

And He adds no sorrow to it. 

Message: True Riches

Time: Proverbs records multiple individuals as its author with Solomon as the principal author. Solomon died in 931 BC though most think the book was likely in its final form sometime before the end of Hezekiah’s reign in 686 BC. It is a book that instructs people on the path of wisdom. It speaks to all of life and living our lives under the authority and direction of God. 

What the Lord is Saying: Well, this Proverbs deviates a little from the previous verses in chapter 10 and seems to make a comment rather than a comparison or mentioning a vice or virtue. I felt like verse 15 of chapter 10 also was not heavy in contrasts when it said, "The rich person’s wealth is his fortress, the ruin of the poor is their poverty." Instead it was sort of making a comment. Now, here in this verse another comment is made and this time the Lord is mentioned directly for the first time in this chapter. I think you can infer the Lord in many of the other verses or all of them, but this is a more direct statement. 

The premise of this verse is - "What does it mean, really, to be rich?" At least, for the person of righteousness or the God-follower, to be rich is to be blessed of the Lord or receive blessing or be involved in all that which God blesses us. 

I think of Romans 5:1, "Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." And Psalm 29:11, "The Lord will give strength to His people; The Lord will bless His people with peace."

Psalm 145:6, "Blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the Lord his God." We have help. We have hope. 

Psalm 23:1, "The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing." 

Ephesians 3:20, "Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us."

Psalm 32:1, "How blessed is he whose wrongdoing is forgiven, whose sin is covered!"

These are a few verses that speak of blessings - peace, help, hope, lacking nothing, power in us, forgiven. 

And the verse mentions there is no sorrow with it. Hmm. There is potential sorrow with being rich? There is potential sorrow in getting rich improperly. I have spoken to people in Nigeria that mention many in the population use scams to earn money. Granted, the cost of living there is very hard and the people in that country do not have the basic needs we have, but to realize they are scamming people in order to gain funds. But gaining value in things improperly is a problem and can bring sorrow for all involved. 

It also seems at times that the rich have more pressure on them to provide compassion to people and to live within their means. I recall the Chick-Fil-A founder continued to live in a small house despite the enormous success of his business. There is such great temptation to live in very nice surroundings when you have more money. 

Overall, though, the key here is to realize the immense blessing that comes from God. The peace we have for now and today. The hope that we have for tomorrow. The knowledge that God is there to help and answer our prayers. Our sins are forgiven. There is amazing blessing because of the Lord being in our life. 

Prayer: O Father, make me content. Help me to be more satisfied with what it means to be in you and blessed by You. Let that be what I desire. Get me focused off of possessions and acquisitions.  

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.

Ruth 2:1-18 - Ruth Gleans in Boaz's Field

Ruth 2:1-18

May the Lord reward your work, and your wages be full from the Lord, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to seek refuge. - verse 12

Message: Ruth Gleans in Boaz's Field

Time: According to Jewish tradition, Samuel wrote the book of Ruth. The events of Ruth occurred sometime between 1160 BC and 1100 BC. This book stands as a ray of light, showing the power of the love between God and His faithful people, even during difficult times that were present. It is written from Naomi's point of view. Ruth is the gift God placed in Naomi's life. 

What the Lord is Saying: Been reading a book about the Old Testament and how much of the themes of the New Testament like redemption and atonement have their origin in the Old Testament. It references Ruth and Naomi returning to Bethlehem in chapter 5. Author says, "Naomi had gone out full, she said, and the Lord had brought her back empty (1:21)." Yet the author says "she went out and the Lord brought her back." And "the sovereign care, oversight, and detailed direction of our lives in the hands of a loving, provident God." I continue to think about and notice in the Bible that it calls attention so often to the work of God in our lives. That as it presents people and their lives, their coming and goings, it is all interlaced or spoke of as being the will of God. That he is at times disciplining them when they are experiencing affliction and sometimes there really isn't a cause that we are accustomed to thinking there must be. Like Paul in prison. God seems to have simply wanted him there. And my friend Bobby's cancer. Sometimes things happen with a purpose we don't understand and yet we can see how the Lord takes us through these events. 

Naomi and Ruth are in Bethlehem. Verse 1 of chapter 2 mentions a kinsman, a relative on her husband's side of the family - Boaz. Boaz is introduced. Ruth requests to go glean in the field (verse 2). As it states in Lev. 19:9–10 - "‘Now when you reap the harvest of your land, you shall not reap to the very edges of your field, nor shall you gather the gleanings of your harvest. And you shall not glean your vineyard, nor shall you gather the fallen grapes of your vineyard; you shall leave them for the needy and for the stranger. I am the Lord your God." To glean is to gather grain. The edges of your field will not be completely gleaned or extracted from the field, but some shall be left for the needy. 

I like this recognition that there are certain parts of our class that are in more need than others and it is our purpose to share with those in need. God made provision for these people. I just wonder at times if we are doing all we can to properly help those in need. Ruth comes across Boaz (verse 3). In verse 4 Boaz pronounces a blessing upon his workers. And the workers return the favor to Boaz as well. Boaz asks about Ruth. Ruth goes to serve with the reapers (v 7). 

Boaz remarks favor towards Ruth (v. 8-9). He asks her to remain with the other women, so as to be protected with those of the same sex as her. He orders the men reapers to stay far from her. He serves her and has his best interest in mind towards her. Ruth wonders why someone would be so kind to her, given that she is a Moabite and a stranger. Boaz remarks of how impressed he is of Ruth and all that she has done in supporting her mother-in-law and being with her. He remarks that she seeks refuge in the Lord and is serving him in this regard and seek refuge in him. The people of Boaz and Israel are different and Ruth is more interested in being a part of the people of Israel and so comes to be with Ruth and now Boaz. 

Boaz serves her at mealtime. She took the gleanings that Boaz had provided for her (v.16) and gave them to Naomi. All the time, Boaz was serving her, blessing her and protecting her. Boaz went over and above in providing for the needs of Ruth and Naomi. 

Summary: Ruth goes to glean in the field with Boaz looking on, admiring her, protecting her and blessing her. She brings back to Naomi extra gleanings provided by Boaz. 

Promise: Commandments of gleaning are there to encourage us to be more generous. 

Prayer: God, you are good and sovereign over all. Your ways are above our ways. You provide for people, all those in need and encourage me as well to be generous. Thank you for your scripture and your words and this time to study and learn from these books. Thank you for your divine guidance and showing me how you work. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.

John 7:37-39 - Rivers of Living Water

John 7:37-39

37 Now on the last day, the great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, "If any man is thirsty, let him come to Me and drink. 38 He who believes in Me, as the Scripture said, "From his innermost being shall flow rivers of living water." 39 But this He spoke of the Spirit, whom those who believed in Him were to receive; for the Spirit was not yet given, because Jesus was not yet glorified. 

Message: Rivers of Living Water

Time: John most likely wrote between A.D. 85 and 90. John's purpose in writing was, "that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing you may have life in His name (John 20:31)."

What the Lord is Saying: Jesus is still in Jerusalem and the Feast of Booths is happening and this verse mentions the last day of that festival or the 8th day. This means we can think of Chapter 7:10 till now to be 8 days. On this last day Jesus says words that he has spoken previously from John 4 about being the living water but He also seems to quote from Scripture. And John comments in verse 39 that Jesus is speaking of the Spirit, the Spirit that was coming to indwell in people. 

As a reminder, the Feast of Booths celebration was focused on remembering God's faithfulness in sheltering the people of Israel while in the wilderness. In Numbers 11, God promises through Moses that the Spirit will come upon the people of Israel. And the provision of water was also characteristic of God's work with the Israelites. 

And so Jesus, as He has spoken before, declares that the provision of water or the source of water is He Himself. One is to believe in Jesus. The quote that Jesus gives here is nowhere found in Scripture. And yet the thought is present in the Old Testament:

• Exodus 17:6 - “Behold, I will stand before you there on the rock at Horeb; and you shall strike the rock, and water will come out of it, that the people may drink.” And Moses did so in the sight of the elders of Israel.
• Numbers 20:11 - Then Moses lifted up his hand and struck the rock twice with his rod; and water came forth abundantly, and the congregation and their beasts drank.
• Psalm 114:8 - Who turned the rock into a pool of water, The flint into a fountain of water.
• Isaiah 44:3 - For I will pour out water on the thirsty land And streams on the dry ground; I will pour out My Spirit on your offspring And My blessing on your descendants;
• Isaiah 55:1 - “Ho! Every one who thirsts, come to the waters; And you who have no money come, buy and eat. Come, buy wine and milk Without money and without cost."
• Isaiah 58:11 - “And the LORD will continually guide you, And satisfy your desire in scorched places, And give strength to your bones; And you will be like a watered garden, And like a spring of water whose waters do not fail.
• Joel 2:23 - So rejoice, O sons of Zion, And be glad in the LORD your God; For He has given you the early rain for your vindication. And He has poured down for you the rain, The early and latter rain as before.
• Joel 3:18 - And in that day The mountains will drip with sweet wine, And the hills will flow with milk, And all the brooks of Judah will flow with water; And a spring will go out from the house of the LORD To water the valley of Shittim.
• Ezekiel 47:1 - Then he brought me back to the door of the house; and behold, water was flowing from under the threshold of the house toward the east, for the house faced east. And the water was flowing down from under, from the right side of the house, from south of the altar.
• Ezekiel 47:12 - “By the river on its bank, on one side and on the other, will grow all kinds of trees for food. Their leaves will not wither and their fruit will not fail. They will bear every month because their water flows from the sanctuary, and their fruit will be for food and their leaves for healing.”
• Zechariah 13:1 - “By the river on its bank, on one side and on the other, will grow all kinds of trees for food. Their leaves will not wither and their fruit will not fail. They will bear every month because their water flows from the sanctuary, and their fruit will be for food and their leaves for healing.”
• Zechariah 14:8 - And in that day living waters will flow out of Jerusalem, half of them toward the eastern sea and the other half toward the western sea; it will be in summer as well as in winter.

And so it is fitting that Jesus calls Himself the living water and yet He shows that He is the source of the living water. Water that everyone needs and wants and provides for us. And yet today, maybe it is hard for us to be affected by these words, especially in the western world, in which we have water in abundance and perhaps take it for granted. Because of that provision that is already overflowing, do we struggle comprehending the full meaning of this or maybe we miss the full impact because of all that we have? I wonder. 

The Rivers of Living Water is the abundant provision that will not come about until the Spirit descends into people's lives following Jesus' ascension. And it speaks in verse 38 that this provision of living water will be from his innermost being. Or in King James, from his belly. As such there will be spiritual blessings that will flow forth from the believer in Jesus. There will be good works of abundance coming from this person in Christ. We will be a people full of blessings, overflowing generosity. We will be a people helping other people in many ways, providing for their needs, their health and well-being. As in birthing hospitals and aiding people when disasters hit. While Christ is the source, the people of God will be the conduits. The people of God will be the working on this earth of all of this flowing river. Rivers are incredible to me because they are constantly in flow. The source is not always apparent but under the ground and yet it keeps coming. 

Summary: Jesus is the source of living water, providing life to those who believe in Him and the waters will flow in the form of blessings to many people, continually. 

Promise: We ourselves are not sources of living water, but Christ empowers us by His Spirit and works through us to bless others. 

Prayer: Lord, I want to be eager for You to use me in this way, blessing others, from the source of living water that You provide. I see rivers and streams and waterfalls that flow with power and flow continually and it reminds me of the power of giving and helping those in need. And providing others what they need. You are the source of giving and life and all that is good. Even as my atheist friend shares of the way he helps a young man with learning difficulties, you are still the source of all of this. Our spirit enjoys this and is impacted by this. Help him to realize the source of this giving. You work God, not only in believers, but continually in people's lives. May more people recognize You as the source of Life and believe in You. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.  

Exodus 12 - The Lord's Supper as Remembrance

Exodus 12 - 7 Moreover they shall take some of the blood and put it on the two doorposts and on the lintel of the houses in which they eat it...11d you shall eat it in haste--it is the Lord's Passover...13b and when I see the blood I will pass over you, and no plague will befall you to destroy you when I strike the land of Egypt...14 Now this day will be a memorial to you, and you shall celebrate it as a feast to the Lord; throughout your generations you are to celebrate it as a permanent ordinance. 

Message: The Lord's Supper as Remembrance

Time: Moses is the most likely author of this book. His education and early tradition make him the likely author and it says in Exodus 24:4 that he wrote what the Lord said. The title Exodus means departure of Israel from Egypt by the hand of God. The book covers 80 years, from 1526 to 1446 with the events at Mount Sinai. God fulfilling promises and his story of redemption are the central ideas.

What the Lord is Saying: John Calvin said, "The new covenant does not destroy the old in substance, but only in form." In today's lesson, we remember the Passover and we also see how the Lord's Supper is linked to it. We previously saw with the sacrament of baptism a link between it and circumcision. Thus, these sacraments differ in their administration, but their substance is the same. Baptism, like circumcision, points to regeneration while the Lord's Supper, like the Passover, points to redemption. 

As I have stated before and believe--God's redemption of His people does not change throughout history. One of the reasons I reject the claim that many today make that baptism is needed for salvation is I don't agree that salvation changes. The Bible has always pointed or looked forward to Jesus and His sacrifice. John 8:56 is an interesting verse by Jesus in which He says, "Your father Abraham rejoiced to see My day, and he saw it and was glad." Jesus even follows this up by saying, "Before Abraham was born, I am." Whoa! Jesus here is engaging with people about the relationship between Himself, God and Abraham, showing that He was promised by Abraham. And Abraham saw the future. And now today, as we live past Bible times, we look back to Jesus and His sacrifice. 

Before Christ and His final atonement there was the sacrifice of animals offering done to atone for sin. It was regular but through blood--sin was covered. In Christ, the perfect sacrifice, atonement is permanent, once for all (Hebrews 7:27). And Hebrews also records 10:18, "Now where there is forgiveness of these things, there is no longer any offering for sin." Jesus has forgiven sin once and for all. 

The text today refers to the old testament sacrament of atonement and redemption. The blood from an animal - a lamb - was placed on doorposts to signify that those within those walls would not receive judgement for their sin. God judged those in the land of Egypt, as Pharoah led these people to reject God. Blood in essence forgave people of their sin. I think this is important because sin was similar or the same in these people. But one was saved and the other not. This is also a sobering truth. For God does not save all. Some will reject Him and some will turn from God and His ways. All of the onus is  on God for what is occurring - saving some, not saving others. God is choosing. People may not like this. They make it think it unfair. So I think what man does then is set up a system of religion that is instead based upon the faithfulness or good deeds of a person. At least that is my thinking. Man has this desire to put the credit on himself. We like that plan. Our world works in this manner so we want things with God to work the same way. 

And yet does our world work this way? I often wonder why some people have good paying jobs while others do not. I mean God has granted me with gifts and I have utilized them and grown through the ranks to achieve what I have, getting paid in the process. I look at people that play sports or sing songs and the world pays them in huge riches. We are all different, each with different gifts. Not all of us can rise to this level so isn't all of life lived in God's sovereignty. Is He not in control of everything? And yet each person still has accountability to their lives. I think of people dealing drugs, trafficking women, abusing innocent people -- are these people under God's control as well. I've been reading Jeremiah and God uses Babylon as His instrument to judge others. Horrible things occur to nations. I'm sure somewhat innocent people are saved while others are redeemed. 

But again for this lesson, in reviewing the sacrament of the Lord's Supper. Sacraments, as I have seen are about remembrance of an event already that has occurred. The Passover was celebrated to remember God redeeming His people. The Lord's Supper therefore also is now celebrated, after Jesus paid for sin, forgiven sin, to remember that He has redeemed us. It was instituted prior to Him fully redeeming us. And yet for us now, we practice it after Jesus has fully redeemed us. 

Summary: The Passover remembered God saving the people of Israel from Egyptian bondage. The Lord's Supper remembers Jesus saving us all from eternal damnation because of our great rebellion to God. 

Promise: As we take the supper, let us remember that because Christ paid the price for us, we owe Him everything that we are. 

Prayer: O God, you are great. You are powerful. You are in charge. You have redeemed mankind and redeemed me. You have placed your Spirit in me so that I will know and worship You and make you known throughout this world, living as your vessel to encourage others in the same way. You have chosen me for this time. Each day is a gift from You. Each moment. I look at my wife and am amazed at the gift you have given to me in her. The joy of being with her. And thankful also for people you have placed in my life. Everyday is a celebration of your providence. Lord, you gave us the Lord's Supper a gift to come together and celebrate your great love for us in redeeming us not simply for a moment but for an eternity. Lord, would you help that observance time for me to be a sweet joy and a sweet time of remembering. Plant in that time I take the cup and the bread the realization that without You I am nothing. Lord, I think you know I seem to struggle with that time. I know it is needed and I want to do it, but often I miss or don't feel its connection or treat it as a celebration. Maybe I am a person that struggles with those type of events and yet simply enjoy the moment my moment of living with You as my Savior and Redeemer. I am not sure, but I do thank you for this time to spend in Your word and reflect on You and what You have done for me. I still don't know why I am so blessed. 

I John 2:19a - The Church We Can See

I John 2:19a - They went out from us, but they were not of us, for if they had been of us, they would have continued with us. 

Message: The Church We Can See

Time: The author of this book never was identified but contemporaries have attributed it to John and its dating is estimated to be 90 AD. John focused on three issues: the zeal of the believers, standing firm against false teachers, and reassuring the Christians that they have eternal life. 

What the Lord is Saying: 

I must admit, I read through this devotional one time yesterday and I was not sure what it was saying. So this morning, I opened up I John 2:19 and read it and looked at the context. It is speaking of the antichrist and proclaims -- 

They went out from us — Separated themselves from the communion of the true church of Christ. Hence it is one of the marks of antichrist, that he had been once in the Christian Church, and a teacher by profession, but had left it or apostatized; but they were not of us — When they went, their hearts were before departed from God; for if they had been of us — Had been inspired by the same spirit wherewith we are inspired; they would, no doubt, have continued with us — For upright men, of a pure intention, would never have seen any cause to leave us, and divine grace would have preserved such from being overcome by the temptations of these artful deceivers (Joseph Benson 1749-1821; one of the most eminent and influential Methodist ministers in England after the death of John Wesley).

Thus, the church as a community of believers coming together is needed. And yet those within the church are not all Christians. While the church is needed and important, it is also made up of people that are 'just visiting.' However, it is a community that is needed and the Word of God states it is not optional. I know many that are trying to navigate through life without it. They have served for a season and now think there lives don't need and can live away from it. 

From these verses we see that not everyone in the church is regenerate and yet the church is still relevant and needed and those unregenerate people still belong to a church. Thus, it is not only a place for regenerate people. Even unregenerate people can see the benefits of the church - a place to see the work of God's spirit living and active among people; a place to witness the blessings God gives to His church; and a place to hear the Word of God preached (Hebrews 6:4-5). 

It is true that none of us are omniscient (having complete understanding and insight into one another) and therefore knowing for sure the faith of one another. The church employs community by helping people see the importance of vowing to belong. This weekend, my wife and I are going to a church membership class. It is necessary to come together and know the importance of what the church believes and knowing what it means to belong. If we want to be involved, it is a requirement to serve. And often verification that one has been baptized is a condition of church membership or being involved in a local body for it signifies that we are all common believers. And in this process we corporately profess our faith. People acknowledge that they are committed to being together in the church. These are all good things and necessary things and things we are called to be about. Many will attend church and yet not partake of these things. The classes and profession and baptism are not required but offered and encouraged. 

But it is not only that we are called to become involved, but we are also privileged to be in a place where the Word of God is preached and receive the sacraments. Through this the Lord causes us to grow. Many a Sunday I am in church not feeling like being there, wondering what I am getting out of it, questioning things, evaluating the presentation, and yet I remain. I belong. God is growing me whether I see it or not, whether I acknowledge it or not. 

I Corinthians 10:16-18 - The cup of blessing that we bless, is it not a participation in the blood of Christ? The bread that we break, is it not a participation in the body of Christ? Because there is one bread, we who are many are one body, for we all partake of the one bread. Consider the people of Israel: are not those who eat the sacrifices participants in the altar? (Thoughts: We are one; we come together to have communion, to partake of the sacrifices and in the process we participate in the Body of Christ and are one body.)

Hebrews 5:14 - But solid food is for the mature, for those who have their powers of discernment trained by constant practice to distinguish good from evil. (Thoughts: The regular preaching of the Word of God is not optional but needed in our lives. I am thankful for our church where the pastor faithful preaches the word and then we go to Sunday School to examine it further together.)

I Peter 2:2 - Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation. (Food is not a one time thing in our life. It is needed multiple times a day and the Word of God is the same way. We need it to grow in our believing life, each and every day.)

And yet people who belong to a church, that are exposed regularly to the word of God, need to come to truth. They need to eventually be a believer of Christ, belonging, baptized. We know from God's word that some will leave. But we also know those who are near to this message and yet don't ever follow through will incur a greater judgment (Luke 12:35-48).

And that servant who knew his master’s will but did not get ready or act according to his will, will receive a severe beating. But the one who did not know, and did what deserved a beating, will receive a light beating. Everyone to whom much was given, of him much will be required, and from him to whom they entrusted much, they will demand the more.

Summary: Belonging to a church is not optional, for anyone. We are meant though to come to saving faith, to belong, to partake of the sacraments, to live in a community with other believers, to hear the Word of God preached, and to grow. It is not an option. It is also a privilege. 

Promise: Except in rare circumstances, Scripture knows nothing of a Christian who is not part of the local, visible church. 

Prayer: Thank you God for church. You know I've always loved church and see that it is a community set apart for You. Thank you for being about church and that so many are involved and yet give discernment to people to be in a body that is aligned with Your truths. I pray for my friends who are not involved right now that they would see they never graduate from not being involved and that it is necessary always as a follower of Yours and that we need it. Help me to always stay close to You in this way and encourage this in others. Thank you God. 

Note: I follow the readings from the Tabletalk Magazine devotional, though I am now working through 2017 devotionals. 2017 is a study of key biblical doctrines celebrating the 500th year of the Reformation. The month of August is about the Body of the Lord - the Church recovered in the Reformation; July was the right use of God's Law; June was justification by faith alone; May about solus Christus - Christ Alone; April, salvation by grace alone; March, the sovereign providence of God; February, the doctrine of revelation, Scripture that sola Scriptura seeks to preserve; January, the doctrine of God.  

The Body of Christ - The Church is the Body of Christ and Christ loves the church. We are to imitate Christ and see that the Church is how Christ carries out His purposes in the world. The Head of the Church - Christ is Head of the church and he only has final authority and gives life to the church. Life is found only in Jesus Christ our Lord.

Galatians 3:10-14 - Judaizing Legalism

Galatians 3:10-14

For as many as are of the works of the Law are under a curse; for it is written," “CURSED IS EVERYONE WHO DOES NOT ABIDE BY ALL THINGS WRITTEN IN THE BOOK OF THE LAW, TO PERFORM THEM." Now that no one is justified by the Law before God is evident; for, "THE RIGHTEOUS MAN SHALL LIVE BY FAITH." However, the Law is not of faith; on the contrary, "HE WHO PRACTICES THEM SHALL LIVE BY THEM." Christ redeemed us from the curse of the Law, having become a curse for us—for it is written, "CURSED IS EVERYONE WHO HANGS ON A TREE— in order that in Christ Jesus the blessing of Abraham might come to the Gentiles, so that we would receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.

Message: Judaizing Legalism

Time: Paul wrote to the churches in southern Galatia after having a hand in starting them on his first missionary journey to Asia Minor, making sure they were on the path of truth and not led off into deception. Paul wrote the book a few months before his attendance at the Jerusalem Council in AD 49.

What the Lord is Saying:

I started this study on the Law over 2 months ago. I haven't posted anything in the last month. I don't know why other than I wake up late and have been prioritizing a morning prayer walk and sometimes that is all the time I have to do something before I head off to work. Plus I've been working more. And trying to stay on top of my online missionary duties. And then I haven't been studying much lately on the weekend. 

But this has been an interesting study about the Law. Everyday it seems I engage with the Law in my life. The message this past Sunday was about the mission field. I got home last night so overwhelmed with work and wondering what I was doing of late to reach my mission field. And so I wrestle with these commands God has given me. At work, I'm trying to do the best I can with my job. But, I fail, continually. Life is about performance, doing things. I need the Law in my life to remind me what I shouldn't be doing and what I should be doing. 

I know often I wish at times there was no law and all I had to do each day was take it easy. I get used to rest. But after a while rest doesn't get me much and I wonder if I'm resting too much. 

This lesson today brings up the "law of Christ" as it is referenced in several New Testament verses. The thought by Ligonier is the moral commandments of the Mosaic law are included in this Law of Christ. There are 3 types of laws it seems mentioned in the Bible: Moral commandments or laws, Ceremonial Laws, and Civil Laws. All 3 laws are in the Old Testament but it is the Moral laws that are focused on in the New Testament and that Jesus mentioned and Paul later wrote about. 

I found this description of the three here and here. 

• First, are civil laws. These were specifically given for the culture of the Israelites, which includes everything from murder to restitution and dietary restrictions.
• Second, are ceremonial laws. This literally stands for the customs of a nation. These would have included sacrifices of perfectly good animals, and rejection of food sources such as pork and rabbits. These laws were specific only toward the Jews.
• Third, are God’s moral laws. These relate to justice and judgment. They are based on God’s own holy nature. As such, these ordinates are holy, just and unchanging.

The lesson from Ligonier's devotional today is that "believers are bound to the law of Christ (I Cor 9:21; Gal 6:2)." Those verses speak of the law of Christ. This "law of Christ includes the moral commandments of the Mosaic law (Matt. 5:21-30; Rom. 13:8-10; 1 John 3:12,15)." Matthew 5:21-30 is where Jesus brings up personal relationships and takes the Mosaic law to a new level or different level. Thus, it includes it, but Christ explains that the laws which have clear outward results when violated (you can see a person murdered, you can see adultery), but they also have a component that can't be seen as clearly (hatred and lust). 

This reminds me of something. Last week we discovered that one of our employees had been convicted of crime of rape. It was shocking to see how this one act changed their lives. But, I think we often stare at the acts and forget that there was a heart issue present. Sin begins in the heart in how we view women in this case and sex in this case. In this case, it starts with a desire that turns into an action that we have difficulty controlling. I think that is what Jesus is talking about here in Matthew 5 that we must look at our heart. And I John 3 further speaks to the idea that these internal acts are viewed in the same way as the outward acts, meaning that doing them negates your ability to make it to heaven. Once again showing that any disobedience results in losing the promise of eternal life. 

And so Paul rightfully takes this thinking that Jesus puts forth in the law of Christ to show us that overriding thought is one of love and how we love our neighbor. If we truly love people we will not break the commandments of adultery, murder, coveting, theft. Thus, we should desire to keep God's commandments -- in all of the ways they are presented. 

But, we must never think that law obedience then results in God's acceptance and salvation. God saved them from slavery and then gave them 10 commandments (Exodus 20:2). Our obedience is a response of God's love not a condition for receiving it. And so the idea that obedience brings about God's acceptance of us for salvation, this is the error of Judaizing legalism. And thus obedience is intertwined with justification. It is, but only Christ's obedience matters because only his obedience was without sin. Any sin nullifies our ability to be saved. But being obedient is how we live life. 

And so this leads us to today's passage in Galatians 3:10-14. If one subscribes to the idea that working the Law or working obedience then that person is under a curse. For a person is cursed because law obedience for salvation is based upon doing "all things written in the book of the law." Deuteronomy 27:26 records these words -- "Cursed is he who does not confirm the words of this law by doing them.’ And all the people shall say, ‘Amen.’ Thus, true righteousness is obtained in living by faith or being a person of faith. And law living is not faith living. What Christ did on the cross is He redeemed us from Law living; He redeemed us from this curse. We are cursed because law living is impossible. The curse got transferred to Christ and only Christ can fulfill the Law. 

To me, once someone acknowledges God this idea of Judaizing legalism enters lives in very subtle but profound ways. We must always re-focus ourselves on the idea of obedience in response to God's love and not as a condition for God's love. I think the area that I struggle with is whether obedience results in God's blessings for our life. I mean, once we understand salvation is by faith alone, does obedience impact blessing? Most definitely to receive any blessing we must be in Christ, surrendered to Him, accepting His justification. 

Promise: God saves us to make us obedient. We are not obedient in order to be saved. 

My Prayer: O God, the riches of your love and the riches of this message never ceases to amaze me. I have to place it at the forefront of my thinking all of the time because it is so opposite to the way in which life is lived in the world in which acceptance follows good work. But, you show us the better way. Help me to always keep this supreme in my thinking. And Lord help me to understand also your blessing and what it means to me and how obedience is related to normal day to day blessings. Lord, forgive me for letting the busyness of life get a hold of me. Help me to do my best at work while also do my best 

in the areas of ministry you have called me to be in. 

Note: I follow the readings from the Tabletalk Magazine devotional, though I am a little behind and working through 2017 devotionals. 2017 is a study of key biblical doctrines celebrating the 500th year of the Reformation. The month of July is about the right use of God's Law; June was justification by faith alone; May about solus Christus - Christ Alone; April, salvation by grace alone; March, the sovereign providence of God; February, the doctrine of revelation and the various aspects of the doctrine of Scripture that sola Scriptura seeks to preserve; January, the doctrine of God.

The Restraint of the Law - the law is given for lawless, unholy, disobedient people, to restrain us from acting on our sinful thoughts. Restraint and Guilt - the law is meant to restrain Christians and non-Christians alike; so that others may see Christ. The Law's Revelation of Sin - The Law reveals sin, at times making it more desirable, and show the sin which people commit and the complete standard it expects. The Law and Our Powerlessness - We are powerless over the Law and Sin revealed. It is in Christ that we receive forgiveness and the power to resist sin. The Law our Guardian - The law is not a tool of justifying me, but rather it is an instrument to bring me to Christ and show me my need for Him. The Guidance of the Law - The Law is a guide in our lives for what pleases God and what it looks like to walk in holiness. The Antinomian Error - We were slaves to sin, but now we are slave to obedience and righteousness. 

TABLETALK - June 2017 Articles

To Be Blessed - Buck Parsons (editor of Tabletalk magazine, copastor of Saint Andrew's chapel in Sanford, FL) - The idea of blessing by God has lost its meaning. Americans have treated "God Bless America" as a presumptuous declaration that God will bless us no matter what. God blesses according to His covenant with us. Only those in covenant relationship with Him are blessed, and as blessed ones we will strive to pursue the characteristics Jesus speaks of in the Beatitudes -- and as we demonstrate them in the world, we will be persecuted -- and if the Beatitudes are true of us, we are blessed. 

Loving God with Our Minds - R C Sproul (1939-2017 - former chairman of Ligonier ministries) - The human mind is incredible in its thinking, but it is still impacted by sin. People can still be brilliant, but those most brilliant, if they deny God, will actually go further away from God in their reasoning. Unbelievers seek the benefits of knowing God, but do not seek knowing God. Only the Holy Spirit can change our disposition to Know God. But the Christian, once changed, remains fallen and affected by this fallen nature and so lives life seeking to love God more with our minds; a renewed mind (Rom. 12:1-2). This love of God must begin in the mind, for increasing emotion, entertainment, and excitement will not increase our love for God. So we seek to understand Him more by reading scripture so our minds will love Him more. And in turn our praise and worship of Him intensifies. Begin with the mind. 

To Be Blessed - Brandon D. Crowe (Associate professor of NT at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia) - This article reminds us that we need to consider the context of Scripture as well as who we are as saved people before jumping into the beatitudes. 

As we read about “blessing” in the Beatitudes or Sermon on the Mount, because the use of that word has changed today or is thrown around, “blessing” may get lost in translation. This Sermon seeks to guide Christians to righteousness in practice. It must be read within the context of the entire Bible. 

As is mentioned in Psalm 1 which is the same word as the Beatitudes for blessing, the blessed one is the one who meditates on the law of God, knows it and does it. And then also in Deuteronomy, a book written to God's covenant people instructing them in covenantal obedience, are the words that as a people saved by the Lord, they are a Happy and Blessed people and are to live according to God's law. Thus the Beatitudes are given from an Old Testament emphasis on redemption and in the context of Matthew’s gospel in which Jesus will save His people from their sins (Matt 1:21). Redemption precedes living according to these Beatitudes. 

These blessings will reflect Jesus and how He lived.  

Indicative precedes Imperative Dynamic in Scripture. Indicative is “God’s great work of salvation to save His people.” Imperative is “the call to obedience in light of God’s saving work.”  Exodus followed by 10 commandments; God’s kingdom precedes the Law.

The Beatitudes- the blessings of those who are redeemed are called to live then in like manner. 

Blessed are the Poor in Spirit - Rev. D Blair Smith (associate professor at Reformed Theological Seminary in Charlotte) - We must first enter God's blessing empty so that we can be filled. Poor is not necessarily here poverty but needing God for everything physical and spiritual. Self must die if we are going to be filled with Christ. With a debt of sin and bankrupt before God, only He can wipe out our debt so we cry out to Him. Self-reliance, self-sufficiency, self-confidence misses often the blessing of God's presence. We never outgrow this first beatitude. "God, be merciful to me, a sinner" "Humble yourself" "Be poor in spirit." 

Blessed are Those who Mourn - Matt Smethurst (a managing editor of The Gospel Coalition) - A person can be poor in spirit and not mourn their sin, so blessed are those who recognize they have offended God by their deed. There is no fear in being exposed because God gives blessing (comfort) to those who repent. And Jesus does not just mourn over all people's sin, He conquers it. The comfort Jesus provides fulfills Isaiah's words in which God's suffering servant would bring comfort to God's exiled people (Isaiah 61:1-2). 

Blessed are the Meek - Rev. Ken Jones (pastor Glendale Missionary Baptist Church in Miami) - The Beatitudes are prophetic declarations of what God bestows on those whom He receives into His Kingdom. The ones who will gain the earth by inheritance are the meek  Meekness is humility and submission to God. In contrast, the goal of fallen humanity is to make a name for ourselves through accumulation, accomplishment, or through expanding our borders. Commit your way to the Lord and trust in Him (Ps. 37:5). Meekness is a virtue possessed by Christ in His humanity (Matt. 11:29), which means that it is part of His active righteousness that is credited to us for our justification. But on the other hand, meekness is a fruit of the Spirit that the Spirit causes us to manifest in our sanctification, as Galatians 5:23 tells us. 

Blessed are those who Hunger and Thirst for Righteousness - Dan Doriani (professor, vp, & dean of faculty at Covenant Theological Seminary in St Louis) - Reviewing the Beatitudes - 1. Poor in Spirit - we need and depend on God; 2. Those who mourn - know we are sinners and how we have sinned; 3. We the gentle/meek - not exalting self. And so we 4. Hunger and Thirst for Righteousness. (My thought: In these 4 beatitudes is the gospel - I am lost and in need of God for I am a sinner and so I look to Him. He makes me righteous.) 

Righteousness is our #1 need. 

This righteousness is 1. Legal - received through atoning work of Christ [justification] and 2. Personal - put aside our acts of sin; give to oppressors, love enemies [be like Jesus] > yearn for God to rule our lives >> thirst for God’s word >> thirst for God’s people. 3. Social - Seek God’s cleansing of Society and where we live. 

Blessed are the Merciful - Gary Steward (asst professor history at Colorado Christian University) -  Matthew 5:7 records - Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy. Mercy is not natural to our nature. Often we are self-absorbed and hardened toward others. But God's saving mercy towards us gives birth to a transformed people who will be kind to others in their suffering. "Be merciful, even as your Father is merciful" (Luke 6:36). God Himself is "rich in mercy" (Eph 2:4). The mercies of God references are throughout scripture. By experiencing God's mercy it demands that we show mercy in return. "Those who are characteristically unmerciful demonstrate that they have not received the mercy that comes from Christ in the gospel." Thus, we have the promise in this beatitude that those who are merciful will receive mercy. What a powerful promise.    

Blessed are the Pure in Heart - Michael Allen (associate professor at Reformed Theological Seminary in Orlando, FL) - A call to purity, social mores, behavior. Here, like the other beatitudes, is a gift or promise - the "pure in heart" are those who "shall see God." (1) Seeing God is a gift of the gospel. David prayed for this one thing - "to gaze upon the beauty of the Lord (Ps. 27:4)." Dwelling with God attests to this when old things have passed away and a divine desire to yearn for God (Rev. 21:3); loudly we "Behold" the very presence of God. And Jesus makes God visible (John 1:18; 2 Cor 4:6). (2) God is our hope as God reshapes behavioral purity. "All the fulness of God" (Eph. 3:19) is found in Him as God is the end of the gospel. Thus "pure in heart" ae only satisfied by the sight of God. Overall, this article focuses more on the result of being pure, seeing God, than defining purity.      

Blessed are the Peacemakers - Dirk Naves (chief creative office at Ligonier Ministries) - Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. This is one that engages conflict to resolve it, seeking justice, harmony, repentance, and reconciliation. Like Christ, we labor toward God and man, applying the gospel in (1) evangelism and (2) conflict resolution. We approach this from a place of peace with God and having been reconciled with God and seek others to share in this. We seek this peace with and for others. Grace brought about peace in our lives so grace must also be at the heart of our mission as we engage with others. It is hard, but the blessing is the distinction of being sons or children of God. Like Christ, peacemaking can be lonely and result in suffering as Jesus was led to the cross. But this is not the end, for the crown of life awaits.  

Blessed are Those who are Persecuted for Righteousness Sake - Michael J. Glodo (associate professor of biblical studies at Reformed Theological Seminary) - We begin beatitudes with God focused attitudes - die to self, mourn our sin, commit to the Lord instead of committing to make a name for yourself, yearn for His righteousness, seeking the things of God. Then shift to manward concerns - be kind to others, be God centered - pure, and seek peace with others. The persecution or suffering talked about here occurs when I am persecuted for doing the will of God, our Master. And receiving the kingdom of God is receiving his righteous way and rule, not necessarily what man values. Of note is persecution means we are living a godly life (2 Timothy 2:12) versus just thinking the world must think good of us (Luke 6:26). Bonhoeffer warns against exchanging discipleship for citizenship. Am I really seeking to gain only God's righteousness or am I too interested in man's acceptance of me? Being like Christ is sharing the things of Christ and Christ suffered and how he was rejected and reviled. 

Blessed are The Reviled - Rev. Donny Friederichsen (pastor of Covenant Presbyterian church in Short Hills, NJ) -   Being reviled for my faith or taking a stand for it is a difficult part of life, but it is also a reason for great rejoicing. Previously, all the other beatitudes addressed traits to have, but this one shifts and says, "Blessed are you..." It is the longest statement of any of the beatitudes. We will be assaulted for our beliefs. We must. Be not of this world (John 15:18-19)and share in the sufferings of Christ. Share with others before me (Matthew 5:12) and be a part of the best group of believers focused on future glory (2 Corinthians 4:17), realizing that future rewards await that will far outweigh this suffering now (Matthew 7:11). 

Growth by Degrees - Jason Helopoulos (associate pastor of Reformed Church in East Lansing, Michigan) - In Christ, we grow by degrees. Don't get discouraged if you think you are not progressing. The Master Architect and Great Builder has a plan and He knows what He is doing, but you can't always see evidence of it today. Growth in Christ happens by degrees, small alterations. Keep reading the Bible, praying, walking humbly, persevering, taking the sacraments. You are being changed. 

The Christian and Sin - Jeffrey K. Jue (provost/executive VP at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia) - As Christians, we are both justified righteous and a sinner. How does the Christian deal with the continuing presence of sin? Constantly remind ourselves who we are in Christ and what Christ has done for us. Be part of a church that preaches the gospel. Take seriously holy communion. We need the belt of truth, the breast place of righteousness, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit (Eph 6:10-20). The Holy Spirit will help us. 

Use Your Words Wisely - Melissa B. Kruger (women's mnistry coordinator at Uptown Church in Charlotte, NC) - Proverbs 12:18 - There is one whose rash words are like sword thrusts, but the tongue of the wise brings healing. -- 4 Ways to build up one another. 1. Encourage one another - praise people, provide thank you notes; let your thoughts move to action (Heb. 10:24); 2. Exhort one another in love. 2 Timothy 4:2 - reprove, rebuke, exhort, with great patience and instruction. At times, these words may cause pain our discomfort; 3. Give thanks in song (Eph 5:18-20) - Join with one another in corporate praise; 4. Words used to pray faithfully for one another (James 5:16) - we help one another as we cry out to God on another's behalf. 

The Joy of Church Membership - Jonathan Leeman (editorial director of 9marks) - Most of this article is witnessing one man coming alongside another and hearing that one pour his life out and seeing how God walks us through challenges of life. It immediately made me yearn for this, but also thinking of my friendship with Scott G and Bobby and Scott D and Fred and Lance at times and coming alongside these men and thinking about what God is doing in our lives. These guys have been my church. There is great joy in these relationships. We are body parts of one another, and unity in Christ, giving each other gifts (Luke 11:11-13). I am doing this with people online as well, encouraging them, walking with them. I need to remember this and remember the church He has given me that looks different from an actual local body, but serves the same purpose. 

Seeking Forgiveness - Erik Raymond (Lead pastor at Emmaus Bible Church in Omaha, Nebraska) - During the sermon of the mount, Jesus offers a curious teaching on forgiveness in Matthew 5:23-24. To the one that has offended another in their covenant community, Jesus says we are to go, urgently, and reconcile. Jesus prizes reconciliation in the Church and so states we must reconcile prior to offering sacrifices. Whether it is bible reading, gathering together, taking the sacraments, serving one another, or evangelism, this reconciling takes priority. Finding this true reconciliation is key, like Ephesians 4:26 mentions between a husband and wife. Forgiveness is precious and delightful. Yet, the reality is that it is uncomfortable to humble ourselves. Yet, at the cross, Jesus came to reconcile us with the Father (Colossians 1:21-22), though He had done nothing wrong and we had done everything wrong.  

A Detail-Oriented Church - Kevin Struyk (Associate pastor at Saint Andrews's Church in Sanford, Florida) Likening his time growing up in a family with a father who is an entrepreneur and keenly focused each day on going the extra mile and being detail oriented in being courteous to others and serving others, the church to reach a community with the gospel must be detail oriented in their (1) preaching teaching whereby the teach explains the test, how to apply it, and then gets out of the way so the Lord can speak; salvation by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone must be preached, (2) day-to-day ministering to the flock; people need to be noticed, caring for each other's needs by the church members who are being equipped to minister by a teacher and (3) outreach to the local community; know the needs of your community, who is meeting those needs, and how people can use their gifts to meet those needs. 

How Will We Live Now - R. Albert Mohler Jr (President of The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky) - 1976 and Al Mohler turned 17 and was given a copy of Francis Shaeffer's book How Should We Then Live? The Rise and Decline of Western Thought and Culture. He saw a new worldview taking shape with the threat of personal affluence and personal peace. He criticized the church's legacy of racism. Will Christians now believe and live authentic biblical Christianity?

Entering Adulthood - J. Derek Halvorson (President of Covenant College in Lookout Mountain, Georgia) - The college years are times when young people grapple with philosophical questions and what kind of person they want to be. Yet, many also leave the church during this time. Young people must feel they are a part of the church body. Rugged individualism is anti-Christ. Nothing can replace the church, not even attending a Christian college. So, invest in the lives of young people before they leave for college. Be empathetic toward them, pray for them, and invite them into our lives. God ordains growth and joy for your life through the church.  

Excerpts from

TABLETALK | JUNE 2017 | VOL. 41 | NO.6

Ligonier Ministries

This material may be protected by copyright.

A Decision that Led to Disaster - Abraham, Friend of God, Charles Swindoll Study Guide

Genesis 13

In my own words - Abram and Lot separate. They were traveling together and both had become very wealthy with many flocks and many tents. Seeing this, Abram mentions they should separate. Abram gives Lot first choice as to where to settle. Lot went to east, possibly because of the fertile, well-watered land, but he also ended up close to Sodom - a very evil place; the land was attractive, the people were evil. Abram went to the west, to Canaan. Following their separation, the Lord speaks to Abram, giving him a blessing of this land to Abram as far as his eye can see. His descendants, God says, will be numerous, as far as the eye can see. Abram followed this up by building an altar to the Lord. 

Wealth tests our decisions

The text says "and the land could not sustain them while dwelling together." Lot and Abram were between Bethel and Ai and as they grew in property something caused them to struggle being together. In our world, our borders are clearly defined - property lines do this to denote the separation of property and land. Where I grew up was at first an open area (Sandia Heights at the base of the Sandia Mountains) but as people came more in abundance, settled property lines were present but not clearly marked and I saw some people feeling a need to build walls while others left the open space as long as there was a clear distance between their area and others. 

Consequences follow our decisions

The text states that Abram stopped to spend time at the altar of the Lord (13:4). At times Abram has not made wise decisions but here the text brings attention to the fact that Abram goes to the altar of the Lord. He stops and spends time with God. Following this and the anxiety that he sees tells Lot he can choose the land he desires. And even after Lot chooses his land (looks good, but is near Sodom which will be an evil city), Abram then goes the other way and settles there and once again builds an altar to the Lord (13:18).  Application - I am encouraged to go to God when I am a crossroads and after sensing God's provision. Start with Him. End with Him. 

The title of this lesson is 'a decision that led to disaster' which speaks of the decision that Lot made in choosing the abundant that looked good to the eye. The decision he made on his own led to disaster. But Abram sough the Lord several times, before decisions and after decisions and God blessed him. In this text, both parties were already wealth with possessions. But what Abram received from God was a blessing of descendants and that the land that he would dwell would be fruitful. Abram received something that went beyond wealth. And again, what is most important to me in this passage is he went to God. 

Start with Him. End with Him.   

My Utmost for His Highest - October 23 - Not a Bit of It!

If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away. — 2 Corinthians 5:17

Our Lord never nurses our prejudices, He mortifies them, runs clean athwart them. We imagine that God has a special interest in our particular prejudices; we are quite sure that God will never deal with us as we know He has to deal with other people. “God must deal with other people in a very stern way, but of course He knows that my prejudices are all right.” We have to learn — “Not a bit of it!” Instead of God being on the side of our prejudices, He is deliberately wiping them out. It is part of our moral education to have our prejudices run straight across by His providence, and to watch how He does it. God pays no respect to anything we bring to Him; there is only one thing He wants of us, and that is our unconditional surrender. 

When we are born again, the Holy Spirit begins to work His new creation in us, and there will come a time when there is not a bit of the old order left; the old solemnity goes, the old attitude to things goes, and “all things are of God (2 Corinthians 5:18).” How are we going to get the life that has no lust, no self-interest, no sensitiveness to pokes, the love that is not provoked, that thinketh no evil, that is always kind (I Corinthians 13:4-5)? The only way is by allowing not a bit of the old life to be left, but only simple perfect trust in God, such trust that we no longer want God’s blessings, but only want Himself. Have we come to the place where God can withdraw His blessings and it does not affect our trust in Him? When once we see God at work, we will never bother our heads about things that happen, because we are actually trusting in our Father in Heaven Whom the world cannot see.

My Thoughts

• The goal is there is not a bit of my old life in my new life with Christ. 
• This means that we only want Himself and His blessings can even be withdrawn

Mark 14:22-25 - Jesus' Blood of the Covenant

Mark 14:22-25
22 While they were eating, He took some bread, and after a blessing He broke it, and gave it to them, and said, “Take it; this is My body.” 23 And when He had taken a cup and given thanks, He gave it to them, and they all drank from it. 24 And He said to them, “This is My blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many. 25 Truly I say to you, I will never again drink of the fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new in the kingdom of God.”

Message: Jesus' Blood of the Covenant

Time: Mark's personal connection with Peter gave him the source material for this book. This book was composed probably between AD 57 and AD 59. It's a book that is on the move, leading to the cross. 39 times is the word 'immediately' used. Mark reveals Jesus as God's servant, reaching into the lives of people and effecting physical and circumstantial change.

What the Lord is Saying:

Preface - It is Thursday, and the day before the Passover. Jesus is leading the disciples through the Lord's Supper, having prepared a place for them to gather. He has just stated that He will be betrayed by one of them. Each disciple responds in disbelief. That person's life will forever be remembered for that one act. Earlier in the day Jesus was anointed at the house of Simon the Leper.

The Lord's Supper is an interesting act that has been repeated by the church and His followers in services throughout history. This was the only Lord's supper that occurred prior to the Lord's crucifixion. Whether looking forward here or back, which is what we now do, it is all about remembering the atonement and resurrection.

As in most practices in Scripture, I notice that different belief systems practice different things about the Lord's Supper. The Roman Catholic Church believe that Christ is personally and physically present int he bread and wine and the invisible essence of the elements becomes Christ Himself, body and soul. I've also noticed many different frequencies of it being practiced. I remember the Church of Christ did it every single Sunday and can recall if you missed church Sunday morning, you had an opportunity to partake in it Sunday evening. Others do it quarterly or monthly (my church). I have a friend that is 7th Day Adventist and they bury the bread and wine not consumed after the service. There is also the belief that this practice is only for believers or those that have confessed Jesus as Lord of their life.

Matthew, Mark, and Luke's wording of the Lord's Supper is not very different, but Paul when speaking of it seems to add "as often as you do this." And therefore, the church has followed this practice is doing it often. Paul's account was probably about 20 years after the gospel narratives and was there to mention problems that seem to have arisen from its practice which means that it was a practice that was repeated after it was instituted by Jesus prior to his death. So he simply confirmed that it was an event to practice repeatedly.

As a person that has partaken of the Lord's Supper many times I must admit that it is a practice I follow but I struggle sometimes with feeling its significance. In the church service, worship takes on a meaning because I am giving of myself. As I sing, I praise the Lord. As I give tithe, I take what has been given me and return it, but I also make a conscious decision to not hold onto that which has been given, and even in the listening of the message I am seeking to learn from the Lord what I can take in and hopefully apply in my life going forward. But, the Lord's supper is taking a moment to remember what has been done and often it remains unclear what I am doing in that moment. Yes, I am thinking God for his specific sacrifice in shedding his blood, in having his body beaten. I am thankful and appreciative and His sacrifice was great, so I suppose this is why it needs to be repeated. But His body was broken once and I began living for Him and then continue to trust Him so how many times do I need to hear "The Body of the Lord broken for me?" In essence I just continue the practice because it seems to be a practice that has been practiced successively, frequently following its first occurrence. But, again, I suppose I expect that it should produce in me more of a feeling of significance as it occurs.

Perhaps what I need to see through this event is simply that my life is all about Christ and his sacrifice provided me life. Right now, my stomach is grumbling for food, but my stomach should also grumble each day for His word. I have been faithful of late, which seems to be a common practice for me in the winter times of the year. But, can i sustain this throughout the year.

While they were eating, - so to me this means that while they were eating the Passover meal or the Lamb and herbs, He took some bread, and after a blessing He broke it, and gave it to them, and said, “Take it; this is My body.” That must have been a radical experience for them. There is no mention of Judas not being there. Christ offers his body for all, his sacrifice for all. But the response to that offering differs. Jesus will soon offer his body as a physical sacrifice. He has already said he will be scourged and beaten. So he is saying that he is offering his body for us, for his followers.

And when He had taken a cup and given thanks, He gave it to them, and they all drank from it. And He said to them, “This is My blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many." These are also interesting words. This is not just my blood, but the blood of the covenant. By using these words Jesus seems to bring them back to the covenant Moses gave the people of God form Exodus 24:8 - Moses then took the blood, sprinkled it on the people and said, "This is the blood of the covenant that the LORD has made with you in accordance with all these words." Blood marked a sealing of an agreement between people. It is an act that is carried to this day. Often in western movies a person would cut his hand and then seal an agreement with another person through the blood. For Moses blood was sprinkled on the altar and then on the people and this married the two. Jesus is doing the same thing in stating this union now between His blood and many. Note, his blood is not poured out for all, but for many.

Truly I say to you, I will never again drink of the fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new in the kingdom of God. He takes the blood and now refers to it as the fruit of the vine. In the Gospel of John, Jesus referred to himself as the vine. It seems that the next time Jesus would share this Supper with his disciples would be in heaven when they arrive. His followers would practice until they are united again. Jesus is going away but one day we will be united again with Him.

Summary - While the disciples were eating the Passover meal, Jesus gives them his Body through bread and his blood through a cup and tells them His blood has been poured out for many. They were to take it. This was given in anticipation of his upcoming sacrifice. But, it is also a practice continued to be practiced until we return to Him in the Kingdom of God.

Promise: We need Christ more than food. Life itself is found in him.

Prayer: Lord, help me to remember you and your sacrifice for me. Your body was broken for me. Your blood sealed me forever with you. I trust in You. I believe in You and I live for you. Help me Lord to experience this Joy in You each time I take the Lord's Supper. Make that time special.

Psalm 144:9-15 - The Blessings of Having the Lord God

Psalm 144:9-15

9 I will sing a new song to You, O God;
Upon a harp of ten strings I will sing praises to You,
10 Who gives salvation to kings,
Who rescues David His servant from the evil sword.
11 Rescue me and deliver me out of the hand of aliens,
Whose mouth speaks deceit
And whose right hand is a right hand of falsehood.
12 Let our sons in their youth be as grown-up plants,
And our daughters as corner pillars fashioned as for a palace;
13 Let our garners be full, furnishing every kind of produce,
And our flocks bring forth thousands and ten thousands in our fields;
14 Let our cattle bear
Without mishap and without loss,
Let there be no outcry in our streets!
15 How blessed are the people who are so situated;
How blessed are the people whose God is the Lord!

Message: The Blessings of Having the Lord God

Time: Based upon authorship and subject matter, Psalms cover a range of centuries. David is mentioned 73 times, Solomon 2, Moses 1, and 50 designate no specific person. It is believed they were compiled around 537 BC. The psalms deal with such subjects as God and His creation, war, worship, wisdom, sin and evil, judgment, justice, and the coming of the Messiah.

What the Lord is Saying:

In review of the first 8 verses of this Psalm, David is crying out to the Lord recognizing first that God is great and the reality that he is small. God is the reason people see him as great. God is the reason he is a warrior in battle and is the reason he is the leader over his people. David also can't quite understand why God would even consider him of value. I know many times I have wondered why God would choose me. The peace I have seems almost unfair to what others have in our world. In light of this perspective, David calls on God to work in a mighty way.

This perspective or view point of God being the one that is capable of delivering and rescuing David continues in verse 9 forward.

His Determination
I will sing a new song to You, O God; upon a harp of ten strings I will sing praises to You. Here is David's crescendo proclamation that the Lord God is in charge. His song, his new song, his forever song to he Lord is to sing his praises. Victory is in Jesus, now and forever.

His Discernment: Destroys Them
Who gives salvation to kings, who rescues David His servant from the evil sword. David had been in many battles and yet he is not ever testifying of his own greatness, but all of his praise of being rescued from the evil sword resides in the Lord.

His Discernment: Defame Them
Rescue me and deliver me out of the hand of aliens, whose mouth speaks deceit and whose right hand is a right hand of falsehood. David has clearly seen the evil present in many people's lives. It is no fun to witness evil, but it is there. He may have even been thinking of the murder of Amasa by Joab recorded in 2 Samuel 20. Joab was a cold-blooded murderer. Just as there are truly good people we want to emulate their are bad people we detest. But being rescued and delivered belongs in the hands of God.

His Desire: For A Magnificent Population 
Let our sons in their youth be as grown-up plants, and our daughters as corner pillars fashioned as for a palace. David envisions a nation of youth drawing their strength from the Lord. These are people sure of their foundation. May we have youth in our country proud of our country, proud of our nation.

His Desire: For a Manifest Prosperity
Let our garners be full, furnishing every kind of produce, and our flocks bring forth thousands and ten thousands in our fields; Let our cattle bear. He thinks of a nation with a healthy economy, where production is high and the gross national product beyond all normal expectation. In many ways this is modern day America.

His Desire: For a Meaningful Peace
Without mishap and without loss, let there be no outcry in our streets! Here there are no invasions of our country by a foreign foe. Are we a nation of peace? Unfortunately, we have lost our way as a nation from this with the many killings that occur at our schools, our military bases, businesses -- there is nothing that is truly safe now. 9/11 also showed that we can be attacked. For a moment, after that, people returned to the Lord, but it was momentary. Afterwards, they returned to their ways. What is missing from people? A right relationship with the Lord.

His Desire: For a Mirthful People
How blessed are the people who are so situated; how blessed are the people whose God is the Lord! We have all the resources to be content, but somehow we aren't. We are often a people still wanting more or being told we need more. And being taught that our economy is focused on people getting more. We have a lot but in order to get it we must borrow. It's amazing where we are at.

Here is the statement that should be the hallmark of our lives -- How blessed (happy) are the people whose God is the Lord. We think we have made it on our own, but actually, our praise belongs to the Lord. We need to return to this.

Promise: David recognizes in this Psalm that the secret to life is no secret. It is very apparent that God is to be our Lord and King and we are happiest in all of life with him at the center. This psalm declares that everything good about man is from God. Our positions, our roles, our jobs, our families, our money, our possessions is all there when we place him in charge. Evil men will continue, but we an rest in the Lord being our rescuer and deliverer.

Prayer: Thank You God for saving us. Thank you for choosing me. Thank you for giving me life, abundance life, and peace, abundant peace. Help me to declare you and praise your name and acknowledge you as the reason for it all. I pray that you would be our peace. I pray that you would train us in how to be content and not simply focused on having more. Daily, bring back the joy of our salvation so we never lose that perspective of making you known in our world. Save me and save my family and friends. I praise you. And I thank you for what you have done so far. You are great.

Psalm 115:9-18 - Blessing The Lord Now and Forever

Psalm 115:9-18

9 O Israel, trust in the Lord;
He is their help and their shield.
10 O house of Aaron, trust in the Lord;
He is their help and their shield.
11 You who fear the Lord, trust in the Lord;
He is their help and their shield.
12 The Lord has been mindful of us; He will bless us;
He will bless the house of Israel;
He will bless the house of Aaron.
13 He will bless those who fear the Lord,
The small together with the great.
14 May the Lord give you increase,
You and your children.
15 May you be blessed of the Lord,
Maker of heaven and earth.
16 The heavens are the heavens of the Lord,
But the earth He has given to the sons of men.
17 The dead do not praise the Lord,
Nor do any who go down into silence;
18 But as for us, we will bless the Lord
From this time forth and forever.
Praise the Lord!

Message: Blessing The Lord Now and Forever

Time: Based upon authorship and subject matter, Psalms cover a range of centuries. David is mentioned 73 times, Solomon 2, Moses 1, and 50 designate no specific person. It is believed they were compiled around 537 BC. The psalms deal with such subjects as God and His creation, war, worship, wisdom, sin and evil, judgment, justice, and the coming of the Messiah.

What the Lord is Saying: 

As I continue to look at this Psalm, I saw in the first 8 verses a contrast between all praise to God and the folly of replacing God or instead worshiping idols. To God be the glory. He is the patient one despite many questioning that He is even there. But, God does as he wishes and He is to be glorified; He doesn't need me and He is sovereign over all. How narrow it is those that people can choose instead to worship a man-made idol and in so doing they get completely off track. It amazes me in life how easily we got off track and begin living for things that just don't matter. The Lord is to be praised above all. Daily I need reminders to remember God, seek Him, thank Him, praise Him.

People appraise God as being helpless and the Psalmist responds to show the stupidity of idolatry and finding rest in man-made things.

Appeal - The Covenant People
O Israel, trust in the Lord; He is their help and their shield. The first 8 verses sound like a prayer of praise to God, but verse 8 makes a shift to words maybe from a leader to the people, such as a choir leader to the congregation appealing to them to trust in the Lord. He is Israel's help and Israel's shield. He helps us and he protects us. Those are words I must not forget. Sunday, a man walked into a church service in Sutherland Heights, Texas and opened fire on a small church gathering killing 26 and wounding more. This tiny church now has lost half of its membership. It's hard to fathom, but it should remind us that people need the help of God daily in their lives. Without that help, we do not think properly. In all of life's situations he is our help and our shield. This doesn't mean that nothing bad will happen to us; his protection lasts for eternity.

Appeal - The Consecrated Priest
O house of Aaron, trust in the Lord; He is their help and their shield. Verse 9 appealed to Israel and this verse appeals to the priest. The people are to trust in the Lord, but also the priests. The priests should set the example for the masses that it is God who is our help and shield.

Appeal - The Converted Pagan
You who fear the Lord, trust in the Lord; He is their help and their shield. From Israel, to the Priest, to the person, or the pagan, all are to trust in the Lord. He is our help and shield no matter where we are at in life.

Application - Assurance of Blessing
The Lord has been mindful of us; He will bless us; He will bless the house of Israel; He will bless the house of Aaron. He will bless those who fear the Lord, the small together with the great. Our Lord is the business of blessing. And I need to be in the business of recognized those blessings. This doesn't mean everything will work out the way I want it. Help me, Lord, to see where you are working and thank you for it. You are mindful of me. You have given me Life, eternal life. You have given me breath. All the good that I have in my life is a gift from You. Each day that I can live is a gift from You. And my faithfulness, my measure of my fear is not contingent on the degree of blessing that I will receive. God simply blesses His people.

Application - Assessment of the Blessing
May the Lord give you increase, You and your children. May you be blessed of the Lord, Maker of heaven and earth. The Lord is able to bless anyone at anytime. Nothing is too difficult for Him. I need to trust in this each day. Forgive me Lord for thinking you are done with me.

Applause - The Globe
The heavens are the heavens of the Lord, but the earth He has given to the sons of men. Heaven is the home of the Lord. It is his home right now. Any time Scripture attempts a description of Heaven it resorts to symbolic language. The earth has been given to human beings. God came to this earth to redeem it. It needs redeeming, continually.

Applause - The Grave
The dead do not praise the Lord, nor do any who go down into silence; At this time, Jesus had not yet brought life to those in the grave. The Old Testament shares a gloomy picture of the grave. In contrast, the living are to praise the Lord.

Applause - The Godly

But as for us, we will bless the Lord from this time forth and forever. Praise the Lord! We are to bless the Lord forever. He is to be praised at any time, at all times. 

Promise: The Lord is about blessing His people and we are about blessing the Lord, praising His name forever.

Prayer: Lord, thank you that we are able to put our trust in You. Thank you for being our help and our shield. Help me to believe this each day and trust in You no matter what comes. As we experience difficulties and trials that we think are too big for us to deal with, remind us that we can trust in You, remain in You and you will help us and shield us from the world and its messages. Thank you for the way you have blessed me. I don't understand it, but I continually thank you for it. Help me to continue to recognize this in my life.