2 Samuel 19:1-23 - David Returns to Jerusalem

2 Samuel 19:1-23

Then Joab came into the house to the king and said, "Today you have covered with shame the faces of all your servants, who today have saved your life, and the lives of your sons and daughters, the lives of your wives, and the lives of your concubines." (verse 5)

Message: David Returns to Jerusalem

Time: Second Samuel is set in the land of Israel during the reign of David and follows the course of his forty years as king of Israel (1011–971 BC). It chronicles the establishment of the Davidic dynasty and the expansion of Israel under God’s chosen leader. 

What the Lord is Saying: The battle has been completed with Absalom and his people and Israel can return to being a nation completely now under the kingship of David. And yet the beginning of this chapter continues a theme of transition. In chapter 18 Absalom's army was defeated, Absalom was killed and then this news is brought to David. It was a process in determining how to bring the news to David, but eventually Ahimaaz, the son of Zadok, one of the high priests and a swift messenger brought the news to David and also a Cushite which is probably an Ethiopian. The news came and at the end of chapter 18 David is in great grief. 

Chapter 19 begins with the words "Then it was told, "Behold, the king is weeping and mourns for Absalom." Mourning is not bad and grieving is not bad. It is a part of the process of a person's death. But with Absalom there was something more as David is conflicted between justice and mercy. And this grief was known in his kingdom by the people. But in verse 3 it mentions an issue because generally as people returned from battle they were excited and joyful but with David's mourning it overshadowed their military success. 

Joab in verse 5 speaks to David and tells him he has done a disservice in being all about this mourning and forgets his people and brings shame upon them for being all consumed in grief and missing out on the the joy of battle. 

This immediately in some way reminds me of my dad and the aftermath of my mom. He is so absorbed in his own grief, there is sometimes an absence or an inability to celebrate the life of my mom and the fact that we believe she is in heaven united with God. His grief is so huge and intense and constantly resurfacing and present that even speaking of my mom and any joy we had with her sends him into more grief. He can only at times see what he is missing and not who she was. 

Through Joab, David needs to realign his priorities and realize that he needs to appreciate the loyalty of his followers. In verse 7 Joab says, "Now, therefore arise, go out and speak kindly to your servants..." Joab tells David there is urgency in this because he is risking losing the allegiance of his people for good. In verse 8 therefore David sits at the gate and the gate being a central point for legal matters and announcements meant David was sitting himself before his people as their leader. 

There are still some of Israel that had moved their allegiance to Absalom. And thus there are words which David appeals to the elders of Judah in establishing his place as king over all the people. David appeals to Amasa, whom Absalom had chosen to be over his army, to now replace Joab as the leader of the army. 

In verse 15, David returns to Jerusalem going across the Jordan. He will return now to restore order to his kingdom. The men from the tribe of Benjamin come down to meet David including Shimei who had previously cursed David. This speaks to previous foes seeing that the king has been established and the people will now surrender to him. 

Summary: Joab encourages David to show his people they are important and to gain their acceptance he appoints Amasa as commander of his army. 

Promise: Show appreciation for those who assist us.

Prayer: Lord, I am reminded here of the importance of not becoming so self-absorbed that I forget what is going on around me. Safeguard me in this Lord. Help my father to appreciate and celebrate my mom. Help us Lord to agree with the leaders you have appointed and support them even when they are not my first choice. Help me to get behind them. 

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

Judges 8 - Gideon's Short-Lived Revival

Judges 8
Gideon made it into an ephod, and placed it in his city, Ophrah, and all Israel played the harlot with it there, so that it became a snare to Gideon and his household. - verse 27

Message: Gideon's Short-Lived Revival

Time: Judges covers about 250 years from death of Joshua to birth of Samuel (1360-1110 BC). The people of Israel largely divided with different local triable judges. It was a period of stirring interventions by the Lord and also great disobedience on the part of the Israelites. Without a king, everyone did right in their own eyes (Judges 21:25). 

What the Lord is Saying: Well, I ended up teaching in my Sunday School class on Sunday, June 22, and I chose to teach through these lessons I have slowly been going through since October - Joshua and Judges. It was a good time to do that teaching and I learned a lot but I had already been sort of struggling through these lessons, going at them slow, but at the same maybe that was a good thing, to slowly get through these lessons. 

The focus of my lesson was really to highlight our mission today, to go and make disciples. But in that is big words of comfort - God is with us and He says to us, "I am with you." He has said those words to His people throughout the ages. I showed how he voiced these words to Joshua and later to Gideon. He gives us a task to do, but he is also ahead of us in doing that task. I mentioned the ark of the covenant being sent ahead of us in Joshua and him calling Gideon a valiant warrior before he was that person. But I also stressed the importance of us not making covenants with people in the World or anything in the world. Instead, whenever we have trouble, we need to simply ask God for help. Sometimes that is proof when he has asked us to do things. But we need to ask him and He will show us the way. This is our time right now. And we have a great opportunity to continue to be ambassadors for Him. 

Now I move on to Judges 8. This book starts in verse 1 with the men of Ephraim being bothered with Gideon. Despite the fact that God took the large number of warriors from 32,000 down to 300 in conquering the Midianites, the men of Ephraim are bothered that they weren't able to be a part of the large army. But in verse 3, Gideon does what is recorded in Proverbs 15:1, "A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." He tells the men of Ephraim the great work God has done in their lives. So it isn't that God has done nothing. He has. 

Another lesson here is that when the people of God see God doing something great, they want to jump on board. But often God is already doing something great in those people's lives. Gideon here reminds them of that, and he even tells them that what they were able to accomplish was greater than what God had done through Gideon. 

With the 300 men that conquered the Midianites in Judges 7, Gideon is still leading them now to conquer Zebah and Zalmunna, the kings of Midian. Along the way, he is looking for help with the people of the land - the leaders of Succoth, but he doesn't get help from. He asked for loaves of bread, but they gave nothing. Also the men of Penuel gave them nothing. Gideon, it seems possibly out of anger tells these leaders of Succoth and Penuel that if he has victor he will come back and do harsh things to them: verse 7, "I will thrash your bodies with the thorns of the wilderness and with briers." In verse 9, "I will tear down this tower." A little perplexing it seems that Gideon speaks words of retribution for not helping his people. Not thinking this is something to emulate and perhaps expresses the great need Gideon felt for his men at the time. 

Verse 10 mentions 135,000 Midianite men - 120,000 of which have already fallen and 15,000 that remain. Sobering numbers. I was speaking to a guy online yesterday and he was appalled thinking that God favors one people over another. God chooses people to be His. He does not choose others. But those individuals in not being chosen are still responsible for not turning to God in their behavior. These are hard lessons for us to see and listen to and read. These Midian people were not part of His chosen. 

Then Gideon goes back to Succoth and Penuel and "disciplined the men of Succoth...He tore down the tower of Penuel and killed the men of the city." Ouch. Harsh. 

After Zebah and Zalmunna are killed, in verse 22, the men of Israel ask Gideon to rule over them, but Gideon responds, "I will not rule over you, nor shall my son rule over you; the Lord shall rule over you.” Good answer. The Lord must do the work. The temptation to be an idol was presented here to Gideon but he refuses. Then in verses 24-27, Gideon asks that each person produce an earning from his spoil, almost like a tithe it would seem. It was an ornament that came together as an ephod - an ornament generally worn by the priesthood. That was his attention, to signify this as a piece worn and attributed to God. But the people turned it into an idol. It seems there was potential for this. Whether it was honorable in his intent to create it or not is not known, but it did result in some sort of idolatry. 

Idolatry is the most common sin it seems among Israel and others in the Old Testament times. God seems to always show that he is not to be shared. Yet, people so clearly and easily go down this path. I am not sure today even if we understand the intent of the way we live, as we often covet things in our lives and place them on equal footing or above God (entertainment such as movies, music, eating, drinking; obsessed with knowledge such as reading the newspaper or watching the news in the name of being informed; our electronic devices (phones, computers, TV, games); remaining healthy both by going to the gym, fitness and pursuing any remedy possible to preserve our health with the goal to escape from any trial; expanding wealth by adding to what we already have making our homes bigger, acquiring expensive cars, going to far away places for travel, even pursuing opportunities for our children). I wonder about all of these and their tendency to be idols in our lives. They most often take much time and besides simply being a form of rest in our lives, they often move to something greater - replacing time that we could be spending with God or sharing His good news with others. But I notice, all too often they are not talked about much and yet, as I speak to people in places in which people have so little, all of these things are not as possible. And so they can by synonymous with wealth. 

In the remaining verses, it mentions that period of restoration now for Israel - 40 years. 6:1 mentioned the time of discipline being 6 years. I notice that these times of restoration are always longer than discipline. Gideon, through his concubine, has a son - Abimelech, and then Gideon dies (verse 32). 

Then the people forget. With Gideon alive, they did well, but once he has died and they no longer have their leader, they fall away:

33 Then it came about, as soon as Gideon was dead, that the sons of Israel again played the harlot with the Baals, and made Baal-berith their god. 34 Thus the sons of Israel did not remember the Lord their God, who had delivered them from the hands of all their enemies on every side; 35 nor did they show kindness to the household of Jerubbaal (that is, Gideon) in accord with all the good that he had done to Israel.

Unfortunate, but I suppose expected. The cycle continues - evil, discipline, prayer, restoration - in this book, this time period. 

Summary: Gideon continues through Midian and takes down two more kings, and yet their are signs of idolatry. The people have restoration for 40 years, then Gideon dies, and the people go back to worshipping idols. 

Promise: There is danger in life to compromise. We must stay faithful all the days of our lives. Let us do this and encourage one another to do the same. 

Prayer: O God, you are rich in mercy. You are the anchor of our lives, the cornerstone. You are all that life is about and all of life is meant to be lived to glorify You. You are to be praised. It is all about You. Forgive me and even raising a family whereby we often replace times with you with other times of not living for you. In the name of opportunity and broadening horizons, I can see myself doing things that are beyond what you intended my life to be about. Our wealth very often has clouded our way. There is such a dichotomy in our world between the have's and have not's. I see the tendency in me. O God, wake me up. Get me focused more on what You are doing and coming alongside You in that work. May I seek to reach those that you have called me to and placed in my path with the truth of who You are. Help me to always encourage people in this. Thank you for Gideon and his great example, to keep pursuing You God even if that means questions and wanting confirmations. You are there and you will provide. 

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

Ephesians 4:12-14 - Our Arena for Growth

Ephesians 4:12-14 - To equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. 

Message: Our Arena for Growth

Time: Paul wrote the letter to the Ephesians sometime in AD 60–61, around the same time he wrote Colossians and Philemon. Ephesians deals with topics at the core of being a Christian - faith and practice, no matter the situation.

What the Lord is Saying:

This lesson begins a series of lessons on the purpose of Church. At is core, the purpose of the church is to bring God glory. Yet, in this passage today, after studying in the last 2 lessons of church offices - the next verse in Ephesians is Paul calling to the Church leaders the goal To equip the saints for the work of ministry. So it is in the church that we become equipped. I was in a church that mentioned this often and yet they had so many people on staff doing ministry, it made me wonder at times if they were really equipping or simply enabling the church people to depend on the pastors.  

I think my focus on church has often been from the words in Hebrews 10:24-25 -- And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near. I suppose it seems that while the leaders are equipping the body is being challenge while also being encouraged. Living in our world is a challenge on many levels. We strive to keep fighting the fight (I Timothy 6:12) and yet even in this we need encouragement from one another. 

I think our current church does a great job preaching and teaching. We are now in a large class after service. Again, great preaching and good people. And maybe the mere presence of being there is an encouragement but talking through life with one another, that remains a challenge. But no matter what,  there is something special about being in church versus being alone and I think this is what the writer's of Tabletalk are emphasizing here. It is the place that encourages us and anchors us in spiritual growth. I don't think this means that all of our spiritual growth occurs at church but even as I think about in my life, the fellowship and the people in my life that have resulted in my spiritual growth have all come from church. Many people stay away from church for reasons that I have experienced, not liking the leadership, not agreeing with it. And yet in the process we miss out on what remains important, being taught, shepherd and encouraged. 

Personal, individual study is good, but it is through fellowship with others and talking to others about these studies and being involved in life with others that growth happens. In my life, meeting with other men has been a church. Even my work in GMO is a church of sorts as we continue to engage in discussions around truth. I think there is even something mysterious about how this happens. There is an accountability that takes place. Overall, it is central to who we are. 

I see this further in this passage. Leaders will equip the saints for the work of ministry and in this time at church we are coming together for building up the body of Christ. A building is one of strength and the community of believers is meant to have a strength. As the passage continues, church life recognizes that Jesus is not walking with us in physical form and yet as we have each other and are with each other we have this goal of all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ -- all of those words speak of maturity; our goal is to grow and grow together - focusing on the Son of God. We are not meant to always be young, so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. We are meant to mature so that the cares of this world do not have a stronghold on us. 

Summary: It is at church, present, that we are to be equipped and build one another up in order to grow in maturity. 

Promise: No amount of study that we do on our own, however helpful it may be, can substitute for the benefit we receive by participating in the educational ministry of our local church

Prayer: O Father God, thank you for orchestrating life as you have. In all times, the church has been the place we need to be taught, encouraged, and grow. Thank you for knowing that we need this and giving me always that desire to be involved. Thank you for the people you have placed in my life to do the work of ministry and being in fellowship. You have given me always a great love for church. I'm so thankful for my mom and her love for it and showing us at an early age the importance of being with one another. I always think of those Sunday evening potlucks and doing life together. We still need this. I still need this. Help me to continue to invite others into our home and figure out a way to be with one another in these ways. 

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, Christ Alone; April, salvation by grace alone; March, the sovereign providence of God; February, the doctrine of revelation, Scripture; January, the doctrine of God. 

Christ's Body

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. - The Church We Can See - Belonging to a church is not optional, for anyone. We are meant to live in a community with other believers, to hear the Word of God preached, and to grow. The Church We Cannot See - What we see is the Visible church, the invisible church only God knows because He is omniscient and that is the Church we cannot see. 

Truths about the Church from the Apostles Creed

Church Unity - The church is bigger than our local assembly; there are core beliefs among the invisible church. One People Throughout History - God has only one people; throughout the world there are people that share doctrines and truths despite their being differences in where we attend or belong. God's Holy People - By being in Christ, though we still have a fallen nature, God has set us apart as holy, as his saints. True Catholocity - God's people includes men and women from every tribe and every tongue that hold to the biblical gospel. The Apostilic Church - we are fellow citizens with all people from all tribes and tongues throughout history, united by being built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets teaching, thus apostolic, with Christ Jesus being our cornerstone.

What the Church Does and Believes

Preaching Christ and His Commandments - A church needs to be committed to faithfully preaching the Word of God. Administering Sacraments - Sacraments (The Lord's Supper and Baptism especially) need to be part of a church existing, but they also need to be rightly administered. The Discipline of the Church - We need to be a people that encourage repentance to keep the church pure and set apart.

Church Leadership Offices

Prophets and Apostles - There is a foundation of how the church begins and that foundation is the apostles and prophets. Evangelists, Shepherds, and Teachers - Only mention of pastors in the New Testament. 

Ecclesiastes 12:11-12 - To Study or Not to Study

Ecclesiastes 12:11-12
11 The words of wise men are like goads, and masters of these collections are like well-driven nails; they are given by one Shepherd. 12 But beyond this, my son, be warned: the writing of many books is endless, and excessive devotion to books is wearying to the body.

Message: To Study or Not to Study

Time: The Book of Ecclesiastes does not directly identify its author. The conventional belief is that the author is Solomon. The book was likely written towards the end of Solomon's reign, approximately 935 B.C. It is a book of perspective whereby the speaker reveals the depression that inevitably results from seeking happiness in worldly things. Most every form of worldly pleasure is explored by the Preacher, and none of it gives him a sense of meaning. He accepts that life is brief and ultimately worthless without God and advises the reader to focus on an eternal God instead of temporary pleasure.

What the Lord is Saying:

Words of the Wise
This passage comes near the close of the book of Ecclesiastes. It seems to summarize what has been said to this point by the Preacher, emphasizing that the the words of wise men or the inspired words that are coming from Almighty God are like goads. For us today, a goad is a spiked stick or a board in which nails were embedded with their points exposed encouraging an animal such as a cow or ox to keep moving by the animal feeling a sharp pain. Thus, the words of the wise are seen as a goad. Wise words sometimes hurt and are partly unwelcome as we traverse through life, on our own, left to our devices. But, we need to be poked and reminded of our purpose. As seen in Psalm 23:1 (The Lord is my shepherd), the ancient Hebrews often referred to God as their "shepherd." Thus, these are words given by one Shepherd -- the Lord God.

Reminders are sometimes corrections that sting a little. We traverse through life often with an expectation of how things are to go and wise words at times assault us a little, prodding us or reminding us. I notice this often in my life as I often get corrected at work. I make a point that I think is appropriate and come to find out there is a rule that contradicts my point. Getting corrected continually is sort of tough. It hurts to the psyche, but it is necessary and I shouldn't resist it, though I do.

Excessive Reading
But beyond this, my son, be warned: the writing of many books is endless, and excessive devotion to books is wearying to the body. Here is a warning to be careful about how much time we spend studying and seeking information. We need to be people of action, not just study. I even see this as an application to pray for I notice my own tendency to spend a lot of time in study and gaining knowledge and not enough time praying or taking what I have learned and praying. Again, as has been talked about, I need that gentle prodding and reminder. The reason I study is to see how the Lord wants me to live. That is my purpose.

Promise: Seek Wisdom. Seek Godly wisdom, but also be a person of action not simply study. Welcome the wisdom from God, even it means getting corrected or reminded of what I need to do.

Prayer: Lord, thank you for this insight that I need, though I may not always want or desire. Getting corrected is a humbling experience. Help me to read what I need to read, but also be a person of action. Thank you for the wisdom of your Book. Thank you that it is what I need each and every day.

Proverbs 27:17 - Sharpening One Another

Proverbs 27:17

Iron sharpens iron,
So one man sharpens another.

Message: Sharpening One Another

Time: It seems that Proverbs was written and then compiled sometime between the tenth and sixth centuries B.C. Proverbs was probably written during the reign of Solomon, 971-931 B.C.

What the Lord is Saying: I have been privileged for the last 10 years to meet with 3 other guys weekly for prayer, accountability, and at times bible study or book study. It came about from a men's conference I attended that many years ago, put on by my former youth pastor now turned senior pastor. He was the pastor for 2 of the guys that would originally be a part of the group that we formed. A 3rd guy would get involved with us about 4 years later.

In my experience of my faith, it has been THE catalyst for my continued spiritual growth and development. These are guys that I can talk real with each and every week. If there is a sin I am struggling with, they help encourage me and keep me accountable and with 3 guys someone generally is struggling with that sin as well.

As my kids age and as we are fathers and husbands, those relationships need constant encouragement. We are supposed to be the spiritual leaders of our family and that needs encouragement. Honestly, without these guys and this time to simply talk about life and what is going on, I just don't know how I survive. Granted, I still sin. I still struggle but I always know that these guys have my back.

I have been fortunate enough to help start another men's group and that group just disbanded after being together for 5+ years. I think every man needs this. We are not 4 guys that are unique, but it is just common sense that we need each other. Yes, it is good to have friends you can talk with regularly and pray with regularly, but it is another thing to schedule that time week after week. It is just a normal routine part of our lives.

At times we study books to help encourage us further, but generally it is just talking about life and then challenging each other in the relationships that God has given us. I need these guys, every day, I need them more. As Hebrews 10:24-25 says, "and let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near." I've always taken this verse to mean that we need this encouraging every day a little bit more. As the day of Jesus' coming nears, we need each other more. 

It is true as the verse in Proverbs states, iron does sharpen iron. This is not a quick process. Tabletalk states here: 

Giving a tool the desired sharpness took time in the ancient world, as there were no electric whetstones or other sharpening devices. Persistent, careful striking of the tool against the sharpener was required, and the process lasted longer than a matter of seconds. Thus, the proverb is underscoring the importance of persistence in friendship. One man does not sharpen another with just one speech or dialogue, though words spoken in the right season can go quite far in helping improve another person. Instead, people sharpen one another over time, through years of friendship and all of the ins and outs that come with enduring relationships. A truly constructive friend is faithful over time to offer his criticism and instruction, and he does not give up the first time his friend does not heed his advice.

Promise: We all need others in our lives to sharpen us and encourage us.

Jesus Calling: December 8

Your needs and My riches are a perfect fit. I never meant for you to be self-sufficient. Instead, I designed you to need Me not only for daily bread but also for fulfillment of deep yearnings. I carefully crafted your longings and feelings of incompleteness, to point you to Me. Therefore, do not try to bury or deny these feelings. Beware also of trying to pacify these longings with lesser gods: people, possessions, power.
     Come to Me in all your neediness, with defenses down and with desire to be blessed. As you spend time in My Presence, your deepest longings are fulfilled. Rejoice in your neediness, which enables you to find intimate completion in Me.

Philippians 4:19
English Standard Version
And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.
 
Colossians 2:2-3
English Standard Version
² that their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love, to reach all the riches of full assurance of understanding and the knowledge of God's mystery, which is Christ, ³ in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.

My Prayer
Lord, you are my provider. Remind me that riches means much more than personal wealth but encompasses all aspects of the fruits of the Spirit, eternal life, peace, and rest. Jesus, Help Me. Surely you are in this place. So much of my world is focused on comfort, ease, entertainment, and enjoyment - to the point that sometimes I feel like I am not in need of You. But, keep me praising you and thanking you for everything in my life. Thank you for the encouragement you bring to life, even in the difficulties or rather especially in the difficulties. You have given me understanding and knowledge of You.

------------------------------------------------------------------

Note: The devotion and scriptures are from author Sarah Young. If you haven't already, please purchase the book and support the author.

Also, bookmark https://bibletags.blogspot.com/2019/06/jesus-calling-366-days.html to have an easy link to the entire year of these entries.

Romans 15:13 - Abounding in Hope

Romans 15:13 - May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.

Message: Abounding in Hope

Time: Written in AD 57 from Greece, to the Christians, both Gentile and Jewish in Rome


What the Lord is Saying:  

This statement here is a concluding admonition offered to the Gentiles which was the audience for verses 9-12. Jesus brought hope to the Gentiles. 

May the God of Hope
This verse is a prayer and word of encouragement that begins and ends with hope. God is the God of hope and His goal is to give hope to the believer. He orchestrates this through the Power of the Holy Spirit. I am filled with hope with joy and peace when I believe.  

God is the origin and object and giver of hope. Abounding in hope is only possible when the God of Hope moves in the life of a believer. Society may think they have hope, but it is a false hope. With God hope is a permanent state.

Fill you
This idea means literally to fill to the brim. Filling is to make something complete. When I fill a glass or container with something, I make that empty container complete with that substance. Here it is the idea of filling a person with all that they need. 

With all Joy and Peace in Believing
God is filling the person with joy and peace. The believers responsibility in this process is simple: to believe.  God will give the believer joy and peace. Joy is something we have that signifies our position in Christ. There is great joy in our salvation. But, that joy can go away at times, but peace will always hold. We need peace to be reminded that our condition of salvation is permanent. 

Joy is a state of knowing I belong to God. It looks past my sin and gives me joy. Peace makes this state a permanent thing. 

The act of believing is done when we consider something to be true. It is not enough to read the scripture. It is not enough to go through the motion of going to church. It is not enough to be in the habit of lifting up concerns to heaven. We must believe. A person is to believe. In believing, the floodgates are opened to joy and peace. Reading the Word, going to Church, and Praying are each important, but they all are only real under the umbrella of believing. 

I have seen this in my life. Sometimes I think that by just going through the motions of reading, church going, praying, listening to sermons or Christian music that it will make all things fine. But, my real issue is whether or not I really believe. Have I placed my trust in God?

By the Power of the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit is not an afterthought or this other option that is just there. The Holy Spirit has a real purpose and we cannot, as a Christian, live a life of power without the Holy Spirit living and working in our life. 

I saw this written on preceptaustin.org and it is is so perfect regarding the Holy Spirit and His Power:

Remember that when Jesus was on earth, having emptied Himself of His divine prerogatives (albeit still fully God - mystery of mysteries! See Phil 2:5, 6, 7-note), He presented us the perfect example of how to live a supernatural life. And what was Jesus' "secret"? Luke unfolds the beautiful truth that at the beginning of His ministry, "the Holy Spirit descended upon Him" (Luke 3:22, compare Isa 11:2, Isa 61:1, 2, 3, notice also the timing = Luke 3:23 "And when He began His ministry..."). Note what Luke is saying - Jesus receives the manifestation of the Holy Spirit and this event marks the inception of His powerful ministry over the next three years. Luke goes on to record that then "full of the Holy Spirit" (Luke 4:1, see  Paul's command to believers to be continually full of the Spirit, Eph 5:18-note), Jesus "was led about by the Spirit in the wilderness" (Luke 4:1b) which resulted in a period of intense temptation "by the devil " (Luke 4:2-17). In short, Jesus gives us His example for powerful ministry - filling with and submission or surrender to the Holy Spirit, the same Holy Spirit that now indwells all believers (Ro 8:9-note, 1Cor 6:19-note, 1Cor 6:20-note). In the book of Acts, Luke reiterates the vital role of the Holy Spirit in Jesus' ministry recording Peter's declaration...

You know of Jesus of Nazareth, how God anointed Him with the Holy Spirit and with power (dunamis), and how He went about doing good, and healing all who were oppressed by the devil; for God was with Him. (Luke 10:38)

Notice the association of the Holy Spirit with the presence of enabling power, power to accomplish the ministry the Father had assigned to His Son (Do you see the Trinity at work?). Now return to Luke 4 and notice that after His victorious temptation.

Jesus returned to Galilee in the power (dunamis) of the Spirit (Luke 4:14).

Jesus filled with the Holy Spirit, led by the Holy Spirit and empowered by the Holy Spirit began His ministry. In so doing, Jesus the perfect Man is providing us the pattern for powerful ministry! Have you learned the "secret" of the Holy Spirit's power in your life? Paul (1Cor 11:1), Peter (1Peter 2:21-note) and John (1Jn 2:6) all call on believers to follow in the steps of Jesus. While clearly there are some exceptions (Jesus' miracles of raising the dead, etc.), the basic pattern of power for supernatural ministry is provided - the secret is the Holy Spirit! Jesus' charge to His men in Acts 1:8 and playing out of that verse in the remainder of the book of Acts affirm the basic principle of the Holy Spirit's power  enabling us to live the Christian life as more than conquerors!

May God open the eyes of our heart to the surpassing greatness of the power of the Holy Spirit (Eph 1:18, 19-note) available in our lives so that we might experience an abundant, fruit filled life (Gal 5:22-note, Gal 5:23-note), in turn so that God the Father might be greatly glorified by the supernatural deeds the Spirit of grace (Heb 10:29b) enables us to perform (cp Mt 5:16-note, Jn 15:8) as we progressively learn more and more to yield to Him, to be filled with Him and to walk by Him (Eph 5:18-note, Gal 5:16-note).

You may abound in Hope
Hope here is not just the desire that something will happen in the future, but it is the assurance and confidence that it will indeed happen. We spoke to a man at the mall last night at the mall and it was clear in our discussion (eventually) that this man was in a permanent state of hope, believing that Jesus Christ did it all for him, and his confidence was not in his own ability to be obedient, but his confidence was in Christ and all his hope was in Him. He knew his future was secure not because of anything he had done, but because of what Christ had done for him. He was in a state of hope. 

Promise:  The promise to the Christian is by believing they receive the Power of the Holy Spirit and in their life, this gives them a Hope that never fades.

Romans 15:5-6 - Paul's Prayer for Harmony

Romans 15:5-6 - ⁵ May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, ⁶ that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Message: Paul prayers for the Christian to live in harmony and glorify God

Time: Written in AD 57 from Greece, to the Christians, both Gentile and Jewish in Rome

What the Lord is Saying: 

In my Bible, Chapter 14 has the heading of "Principles of Christian Liberty" and Chapter 15 is "Practices of Christian Liberty." I suppose I can see a difference in the language although Chapter 14 begins with a practice, "accept the one who is weak in faith," but it is true that most of the chapter has the language of principles. But, there are other words of practice. 

But 15 does begin with the idea of "bear the weaknesses of those without strength. Now, here in verse 5 and 6, Paul gives a prayer to each person in the church at Rome, the Jewish and Gentile Christians. In the prayer he gives the concluding thought. He has given the people many principles.

Also, what I see is the phrase "perseverance and encouragement" is repeated. In verse 4, it spoke of the instruction I am given from Scripture, namely the Old Testament, and here in this verse it is what God gives, though God gives us His Scripture, so He is the author of it in both verses. 

Believers are commanded to persevere. 

• James 1:25 - But the one who looks into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and perseveres, being no hearer who forgets but a doer who acts, he will be blessed in his doing.
• Ephesians 6:18 - keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints.
• I Timothy 6:11 - But as for you, O man of God, flee these things. Pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness, gentleness. (Perseverance is implied).

The bottom line is we have been given numerous commands, but Paul makes mention here that "God gives perseverance." He is the giver of perseverance. 

Perseverance, as in the previous verse, is defined as patience in respect to things or circumstances. Jerry Bridges states that endurance is the ability to stand up under adversity and perseverance is the ability to progress in spite of the adversity. 

Reading these definitions makes me think that it is clearly a gift that God gives. "God, grant me the perseverance to progress in my walk with You, toward sanctification, through the trials and challenges that get presented before me. I too often think I can do things on my own. Too often I think that I do not need help. But, Lord, remind me that you grant perseverance. I need it and each of my family members need it. Give it." 

Encouragement is the calling of one's side. Encouragement is our chief aim. Throughout chapter 14 the underlying thought is to give to your brother in Christ. I am to encourage my brother and so I must be careful that my actions properly encourage. And all the while I need to realize that God gives encouragement. My ability to comfort, to exhort, to bring solace, all comes from God. 

God is the giver for the purpose of:

• me being of the same mind with one another
• me glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ

This is my aim to be of the same mind with one another (love one another) and then glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ (love the Lord God with all of my heart, soul, mind, and strength). The message continues to be the same thought.  

Promise: Pray often for the peace and unity of the Body of Christ.  
 

Romans 15:4 - The Value of the Old Testament

Romans 15:4 - For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.

Message: The Value of All Scripture

Time: Written in AD 57 from Greece, to the Christians, both Gentile and Jewish in Rome

What the Lord is Saying: 

The Set Up
At first, verse 4 looks odd, but something I didn't note in the previous set of verses (15:1-3) was that verse 3 was a quote from the Old Testament. Quote from the Old Testament are always interesting. It is interesting to determine the context or the reason for the original writing. In this case, Psalm 69 is the chapter that is quoted and verse 9. This is not necessarily a chapter about Jesus. But, rather it appears to be a book to David and describing David's situation of a difficult situation and looking to God for help. Yet, verse 3 of Romans begins with Paul talking about Jesus, stating that Jesus did not please himself. Yesterday, the writing from Paul was about denying oneself and denying one's own personal enjoyment or convictions. Instead, do no please yourself, but please the other person. In the same way Jesus took on the reproaches (blame) of others.

Here is beginning of Psalm 69 from the Septuagint:

Save me, O God; for the waters have come in to my soul. I am stuck fast in deep mire, and there is no standing: I am come in to the depths of the sea, and a storm has overwhelmed me. I am weary of crying, my throat has become hoarse; mine eyes have failed by my waiting on my God. They that hate me without a cause are more than the hairs of my head: my enemies that persecute me unrighteously are strengthened: then I restored that which I took not away.

O God, thou knowest my foolishness; and my transgressions are not hidden from thee. Let not them that wait on thee, O Lord of hosts, be ashamed on my account: let not them that seek thee, be ashamed on my account, O God of Israel. For I have suffered reproach for thy sake; shame has covered my face. I became strange to my brethren, and a stranger to my mother’s children. For the zeal of thine house has eaten me up; and the reproaches of them that reproached thee are fallen upon me. And I bowed down my soul with fasting, and that was made my reproach. And I put on sackcloth for my covering; and I became a proverb to them. They that sit in the gate talked against me, and they that drank wine sang against me.

The phrase that is quoted in verse 3 is "the reproaches of them that reproached thee are falling upon me."  

In Psalm 69, David begins with the proclamation that he is hurting. He is overwhelmed. He has cried too many tears. He is hoarse from calling on God. And his enemies are numerous. There are many that hate him just because they desire to hate. He, however, does not think he is above being judged by what he has done. Yet, he has tried to honor God through his words and deeds. And that honoring has not resulted in goodness to his life. 

David is a spokesperson or messenger of God's. And the people know this and so blame God for their current situations, but do it towards this man, David. David is who the people see so he is the one that receives the blame. And this really should be true of a Christian. A Christian should be an ambassador and should be living their life in such a way that it is very distinct and different from the way other people live their lives. Jesus was different. Jesus lived a different sort of life. Jesus stood out. Jesus did not blend in with everyone else. He was not a chameleon. He stood out. And He stood as God's representative on earth. And so, like David, took the blows from people. Jesus bore our sin. David bore complaints. There is similarity and Paul takes this phrase, originally applied to David, and applies it to Jesus. 

Jesus bore the sin of mankind. He took on the evil of the world. 

Current Verse
This is the reference point for verse 4. "For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction." I am not to look past the words of the Old Testament. They are there to instruct me and add value to my faith and life. Don't look past them. 

And it is to give me hope. It is through the endurance of the Scriptures. They are not just for a period of time, but are meant to endure. The words of old show me that God has been working in people's lives throughout history, long before me. And they are to encourage us. They are to encourage me. 

Our Hope is in Him. 

Promise: There are not any unimportant parts of Scripture. It is all given for our edification. 

Romans 12:6-8 - Using our Gifts

Romans 12:6-8 -⁶ Since we have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, each of us is to exercise them accordingly: if prophecy, according to the proportion of his faith; ⁷ if service, in his serving; or he who teaches, in his teaching; ⁸ or he who exhorts, in his exhortation; he who gives, with liberality; he who leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness.

Message: Using the gifts God has given us

Time: Written in AD 57 from Greece, to the Christians, both Gentile and Jewish in Rome.

What the Lord is Saying:

Background
I have arrived here at the application part of Romans. Paul has presented the gospel. He has shown the Jews that they are all under sin and that man is accountable to God. There is no special heritage or special position of the Jew that will then make him/her acceptable to God. Yes, he is called, but his response to that calling isn't conditioned upon whether God has been faithful in calling them. And God's faithfulness isn't called into question because of the Jew's non-responsiveness. God is faithful, no matter what. He provided His Son as a substitution for us. And by trusting in Christ, God transfers or imputes God's righteousness to us. And so we have peace with God now. We have the same faith that our forefathers had. We have the same faith that Abraham and David had. Times have changed but God's ways have not. God calls and chooses people for Himself. Righteousness in our lives is faith based righteousness. It is not works based righteousness. Israel has been hardened. They do reject God, but there is a remnant coming. 

Therefore, we are to present ourselves daily to God. I am not to be conformed to this world. I am transformed by God through the renewing of my mind. I am set apart for His service. But, let it be clear that the gift of grace and faith I have received is all because of God and not because of me. God gives us a measure of faith. He gives us what we need to sustain Him in our daily lives. 

Exercise our Gifts
God has given each of His people gifts. Those gifts are to lie dormant. We are to use them. They are to be exercised in our life. Paul lists several gifts here: prophecy, service, teaching, exhortation, giving, leading, mercy. 

A spiritual gift is a means that the Holy Spirit provides to all His disciples to minister to the Body of Christ (the Church). 

We each have a gift and we are to exercise that gift. Exercise is a practice that is to be done with consistency in order to be effective to our person. And since our gifts are to be used to minister to others, our gifts are to be exercised regularly in order to have a benefit on others. I know this because of the experience I have exercising physically or participating in a sport. The more I exercise or the more I practice, the more a product results. There is a very small marginal effect when a work out once a week or practice once a week but if it is more consistent it is more beneficial. 

It is a gift. Often at Christmas time, when we are giving gifts, the receiver of the gift can at times unwrap their gift and then set it aside with "o thanks." We have a danger in gifts not meeting our expectations but we also have a danger with receiving a gift and then not using it. One Christmas, when I was in middle school, my mom got a gift for me for Christmas. My mom took her time to select gifts. She has always been thoughtful in selecting gifts. This particular Christmas she got me a science kit. It wasn't a very expensive item, but it was varied with many different parts. I think it had a plastic microscope and it has chemistry like parts to it. It looked kind of cool when I opened it, but I don't think I ever really used it. It kind of makes me sad that I didn't give it a try after I know my mom took time picking it out. Maybe she thought that it might result in something I enjoy and would one day even be a profession I would do. I'm sure she wasn't necessarily directing me in a certain direction but given me an opportunity to test those waters. 

Maybe we try doing certain gifts that are not the ones God has given us. But, maybe the gift that God has given us we aren't doing anything with at all. We are so busy pleasing ourselves that we are forgetting the impact God wants us to have on others.

Different Gifts 
God has also given us different gifts. We have been given grace, but our gifts are different. Our gifts have been given by God and God is fair. The gift that I have should not then result in me having pride about it or personal praise. I am not to think of myself as more special or significant or important than others because of the gift. 

Paul lists these gifts:

• prophecy - according to the proportion of his faith
• service - in his serving
• he who teachers - in his teaching
• he who exhorts - in his exhortation
• he who gives - with liberality
• he who leads - with diligence
• he who shows mercy - with cheerfulness

Prophecy - propheteia from pro = before or forth + phemi = to say or tell. It is to speak to someone or tell someone something in the future or based upon the past. Is the meaning here, regarding a gift, someone that speaks about future events that have not occurred? I think we must be careful to distinguish each gift from another. The popular explanation of the prophet is one that foretells future events. They also interpret divine thoughts or words. The prophet has an intimate relationship with the Lord and thereby clearly communicates the message of God. But, it is important to see that the prophet is not going to contradict the word of God or God's previous words. I Corinthians 13:8 gives the idea that the gifts of prophecy will be done away with, at some time. And so since the scripture is complete, the need for a prophet has ceased. It is replaced with a teacher that explains the scriptures. 

Service - diakonia is probably derived from dioko when means to be a follower of a person or attach oneself to a person. This is practical service. It is providing services, often of a humble or menial state It is mundane duties such as waiting on tables or caring for household needs. It is to have a servants heart. It is the ability to see things that need to be done and then to do them. This person is often not looking for any credit in the work that is done. In Greek life, diakonia is not very honorable or highly sought after. It is degrading. And so a person that goes to school and gets advanced learning and education does not generally do this with the goal of serving others, but to be served. 

Teaches - didasko from dao is to know or teach.  It is to provide instructions with the goal of understanding. It is systematic in its training. It is repeated. John MacArthur says it is the ability to pass on truth in a systematic progression so that someone receives it, implements it, and a change of behavior takes place. The prophet declares, but the teacher seeks to have the hearer understand completely. 

Exhorts - parakaleo from para or side of, alongside, beside and kaleo a call. To come alongside calling. It is coupled with teaching. We receive good instruction and then we need encouragement or help in accomplishing or applying the teaching. This is Paul's point by somewhat repeating the gift after he introduces it. "He who exhorts, in his exhortation." If you have the gift of encouragement then exercise encouragement toward others. Phillips calls this the stimulating of faith in others. Exhortation is to encourage people to practice what they have been taught.

Giving - this is not the usual word for giving, didomi, but it is metadidomi which takes on the adding meaning of sharing or imparting what is one's own. Paul used this in Romans 1:11 when he said he would give and impart some spiritual gift to them. All believers are expected to give as they have been given, but some people, and it doesn't matter their economic status (it could be they are rich or poor) have the extra attitude in their heart to freely given what is theirs. There is never an ulterior motive when these people give.

Leads - proistemi or before, over a place, stand. This is one who is standing over or before. This is to preside over people or direct, conduct, govern, superintend. So, this is a separate gift to being a teacher and a separate gift as the teacher is focused on educated the hearer in order to bring to understanding. To lead is to take over the direction of people. It is to be a protector or guardian and to give aid, assist, to care for or to be active in helping. It is an administrator. It is the gift of standing before a group of people and saying, "This is what we are going to do." And this gift is carried out with diligence or spoude which is eagerness, earnestness, willingness, or zeal. It is the attitude of doing something hurriedly and with intensity.

Mercy - eleeo or to show mercy, compassion, or help. This is not simply to express a feeling for the misfortunes of others, but it is more active to remove those miseries. This person has the resources and the action of helping to remove or lessen a person's afflictions. This person knows the right attitude. We are each called to be merciful toward others, but some people have a special gift and are not following a command, but their heart.  And this gift is carried out with cheerfulness or happiness or gladness. It is coming alongside another person with empathy and a gladness in helping.

So, we are to get to the task and understand our gifts and then work them out in our lives. I think of myself and mercy is something I know I have in part, but I also see myself being a leader and exhorting people or encouraging them to believe. I want to teach, but I am most focused on helping people believe.

Promise: Recognize your gift and work it out, for the glory of God. He has promised to use it. We are valued in Christ.

Romans 1:13-15 - Paul's Gospel Obligation

Romans 1:13-15 - 13 I do not want you to be unaware, brethren, that often I have planned to come to you (and have been prevented so far) so that I may obtain some fruit among you also, even as among the rest of the Gentiles. 14 I am under obligation both to Greeks and to barbarians, both to the wise and to the foolish. 15 So, for my part, I am eager to preach the gospel to you also who are in Rome.


Message: Eager to preach, eager to share

Time: Written sometime in AD 57-58, probably from Corinth, at the end of Paul's third missionary journey.

What the Lord is Saying:

Paul wants to assure the people living in Rome that he has wanted to come visit them, but has not been able to make that visit happen. And what he desires is to "obtain some fruit" among them. Fruit is a product of our spiritual growth in Christ. In verse 12, Paul remarks that he desires to be encouraged by the Christians living in Rome. So, into verse 13, his desire is to witness the fruit that has occurred from these people's lives. It is one thing to hear about what God is doing in the live's of His people, but quite another to actually witness what is being done.

From verse 14, we see that Paul acted out his faith out of obligation. Yes, he loved what he did. But, he didn't wait until he felt like being obedient to be obedient. He was commissioned and tasked to preach the gospel. Yes, we have duties and those duties can be delightful. (From Tabletalk, January 7, 2014)

Paul clearly wants to communicate that the Love of Christ and the preaching of the Word is to all people. There is no distinction. The Gospel is to be preached to all people. And I think the gospel is to continued to be preached. He desires to not only encourage these Christians in Rome, to be see their fruit, to pray with them, to thank them in Christ for their message, but he also wants to continue to preach the Gospel. The Gospel is something we just receive one time, but it is something we need to continue to hear preached.
Promise: The Gospel is open to all.

Romans 1:8-12 - Paul's Intent to Visit Rome

Romans 1:8-12:  ⁸ First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, because your faith is being proclaimed throughout the whole world. ⁹ For God, whom I serve in my spirit in the preaching of the gospel of His Son, is my witness as to how unceasingly I make mention of you, ¹⁰ always in my prayers making request, if perhaps now at last by the will of God I may succeed in coming to you. ¹¹ For I long to see you so that I may impart some spiritual gift to you, that you may be established; ¹² that is, that I may be encouraged together with you while among you, each of us by the other’s faith, both yours and mine.

Message: Paul encourages, is praying for and desires to visit Rome to share with them a message

Time: Written sometime in AD 57-58, probably from Corinth, at the end of Paul's third missionary journey.  
 
What the Lord is Saying: 

Paul begins with a thank you to these Christians living in Rome, for not just their faith, but for proclaiming their faith. And the fruit of that proclamation they are doing is affecting the entire world. 

And Paul is praying for them, despite probably not having seen most of them. By God's will, he hopes to succeed in visiting them, because he wants to share something with them. 

Other Key Thoughts:

Thankfulness - The first thing that Paul did in speaking to the church in Rome is offer thanks. How quick am I to offer thanks to God for everything in life? Often, the condition of my heart is wanting more and a desire to be better and improve. Those are good things, but they can often overshadow an attitude of thankfulness for all that God has done for me. But often I equate giving or providence with monetary blessing or even a healthy well-being. Yes, I am rich in these areas, but He has done so much for me, simply iin saving me. Help me Lord to not lose sight of this. Help me to not be so focused on self-improvement or self-betterment. Right now, I stare to much at my finances and constantly want more. There is such a danger then to not be grateful for all that we have and have been given. 

Faith proclaims - It is such a great thing that the first words about this church is thankfulness for how their faith is being proclaimed. They are not a church of yachting boats, but a church of fishing boats. Their first focus is on proclaiming the message of Jesus. I continue to see in my own life that proclaiming the Gospel, while something I believe in and like, is not something I live on my sleeve at all times. I look for appropriate times. I wait for people to speak to me about their faith. I wait for God to be brought up. I speak of God only at certain times. I am segmented in proclaiming the Lord. And yet, I think I am progressing in this. Right now, I don't speak words of eloquence. But, I'm asked to be faithful. I need to be loving towards those I work with at work. As a friend said, he has given me a ministry to those in my sphere of influence, whether it is my neighborhood or work associates.

Serve - Paul agrees with the service of the Gospel, echoing that he lives his life in the same manner. Service is sometimes translated worship in the NT. We are to serve God in a deep way, with our whole heart (affection), mind (inner thoughts), soul (devotion), strength (abilities) (Mark 12:30). Our service is not a part-time thing.  

Prayers - The word used for prayer in verse 10 is used 37 times in the New Testament. In the book of Acts (the early church) it is used 9 times. Preaching should be the result of prayer. 

Promise: There is encouragement in the Body of Christ

Daniel 10

Message: Daniel receives a vision and a visitor that gives him strength to hear.

Time: Third year of Cyrus the Persian (~535/536 BC)

What the Lord is Saying: Daniel has another vision concerning future times - war and hardship. The vision came at a time of mourning for Daniel.

The vision. Daniel was standing on the bank of the Tigris River with other men, but Daniel and only Daniel saw this:

A man dressed in linen clothing.
The man had a a belt of pure gold around his waist.
His body looked like a precious gem.
His face flashed like lightning.
His eyes flamed like torches.
His arms and feet shone like polished bronze.
His voice roared like a large group of people.

From: http://www.preceptaustin.org/daniel_10_commentary.htmThe apostle John gives a description of the glorified Christ which has five similarities to Daniel's vision which are included here in parenthesis...
Rev 1:12 And I turned to see the voice that was speaking with me. And having turned I saw seven golden lampstands; 13 and in the middle of the lampstands one like a son of man, clothed in a robe reaching to the feet, and girded across His breast with a golden girdle (waist girded with a belt of pure gold). 14 And His head and His hair were white like white wool, like snow (face had the appearance of lightning); and His eyes were like a flame of fire (eyes were flaming torches); 15 and His feet were like burnished bronze (feet like...polished bronze), when it has been caused to glow in a furnace, and His voice was like the sound of many waters (sound of his words like the sound of a tumult). (Rev 1:12-15-see notes)

And then this man spoke. When this happened Daniel fainted, no strength, pale and very weak, his face to the ground.

His words, "Don't be afraid. Your humble requests of prayer to God have been heard. I am here to answer your prayer. My way was blocked for 21 days by the spirit prince of the kingdom of Persia. Michael, the archangel, helped me. So, now I am here to speak to you."

Daniel was speechless. Then the man touched his lips and he could speak.

"Lord, I am in anguish from this vision I have seen. I am weak. It doesn't make sense that I could be speaking to you, the way I know myself."

But, he said to Daniel, "Don't be afraid. You are very precious to God. Have peace. Be encouraged. Be strong." As the man spoke, Daniel felt stronger and wanted to hear more as strength had come to him.

The man said, "I am here to fight against the spirit prince of the kingdom of Persia and after this the spirit prince of the kingdom of Greece. But first, I will tell you what is written in the Book of Truth."

Promise: God makes us strong. He is in control. We are his witnesses and get to witness what He is doing and how he is involved in the world we live in.

Hebrews 10:24-25 (NAS)

And let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more, as you see the Day drawing near.