Psalm 97 - Perfect Hatred

Psalm 97

You who love the Lord, hate evil! (verse 10)

Message: Perfect Hatred

What the Lord is Saying: I was going through my mom's papers recently. She kept a lot of papers and was devoted to God in an intense way that I am still discovering. Her time dwelling in God's presence is significant. A couple of weeks ago I sat at her desk. She had a chair in the living room that I often saw her at when I came up the stairs in the morning to get my breakfast and get ready for school. She was in that chair in the early morning hour, praying and studying. But in the den area now, where there was a pool table when I grew up, is another round table which scripture cards on it, a basket with a prayer book devotion and also another one of Mom's bibles. She had multiple Bible's and all had many markings in them. She had multiple devotions. There was a lot of variation. I guess I am the same way. But she had many different devotionals where I have been using the same one for years - Tabletalk - though inching my way through it. As of right now, I am still focused on the 2019 issues. 

The paper I came across this time was a page taken out of the devotional book, "Our Daily Bread." There are two sides or two entries to the paper, so I am not sure which devotional my mom had saved this piece of paper. Haddon Robinson wrote the devotional and I think wrote many of the devotions for Our Daily Bread. She had me listen to a sermon or teaching that he had done one time. I also don't know when this came out, but the entry says, "October 21, Friday." Prior to my mom's death that date occurred in 2016. 

I don't find this particular devotion online anywhere. The devotion ends with a prayer. My mom prayed a lot and she often had prayer books. She gave me one for my birthday on September 4, 1988 when I turned 21, that she did in calligraphy from some prayers by Tozer. In one of this books, each chapter ended with a prayer. Well, each of these entries ends with a prayer. 

I suppose I am trying here to better understand my mom. I admired her and she helped me know God. And in her I saw someone that I wanted to be like. I think I am like her. There are truths here that she saw and that made an impact on her. There are remnants of this throughout the house. She encourages me. And helps me to know God better. 

The prayer reads: 

Dear Father, help us to handle hatred with utmost care. Help us to direct our hatred only at the things you despise. Teach us what it means to hate the sin and love the sinner. Amen. 

Simple. Direct. 

On the drive in yesterday I was thinking about me and my struggle to pray. And I thought of my mom and wondered if she had the same struggle. And even at times the same struggle to read the Bible and depend on it. I think she might have because she had so many 'help's' in her life to get her knowing God and knowing His truth.  

The lesson from this devotional is in loving the Lord I am to hate evil. 

Looking at this text - Psalm 97 - I refer to one of my books by Phillips, "Exploring the Psalms." I also take a moment to look on BibleHub at the summary stated of this chapter. The chapter begins with "The Lord Reigns." 

Phillips says this Psalm looks forward to a time when the Righteous One, the Beloved will return to Reign on this earth. It is a Psalm of Prophecy, looking forward in the future to the Millennial reign. He sees the first 9 verses as speaking of Jesus the Reigning One and those verses describe him ruling nature and ruling nations. The earth and with the clouds and darkness about Him, rolled away, and there is fire, burning up His enemies, lightning enlightens the world and the hills melt in His presence. This earth responds to His reign and surrenders to Him. And then in verses 6-9 the peoples respond to Him. All those with idols will see them as worthless. Instead "Worship Him." Zion or the Jewish people have often persisted in unbelief of Jesus but they will see that God is exalted and the Lord is most high. And then in verse 10-12 the lives of the people will be seen because the Lord not only reigns but is Righteous. And it is here the people are told to hate evil. Evil is in society but we are on the side of hating it at every turn. And we are delivered from its hand. There is light and gladness and we give thanks for His holy name. 

BibleHub isn't specific in its summary of this being prophetic but it is prophetic in that it showcases God's sovereign and just rule over all of the earth and all people at any time - past, present, and future. There is opposition of the Lord at times such as idols and enemies but there will be a point when these are no more. And the people of God are always to be about hating evil. Because we are those who love the Lord. So maybe this text is speaking about a future time when these situations which right now are ideal but not true because there are opposing forces, but one day there will be a earth that is only about God. So that is the hope. Right now, we are to be a people that hates evil, but right now we are back and forth in that regard. We are selfish and self-serving and defensive and not always only about good. I am to hate evil at every turn, but right now I don't and let it in at times. 

So I return to the prayer of this passage which I am thinking for my mom is found in this passage and Haddon Robinson also mentions Amos 5:15, "hate evil, love good." 

Prayer: I read the prayer again God - Dear Father, help us to handle hatred with utmost care. Help us to direct our hatred only at the things you despise. Teach us what it means to hate the sin and love the sinner. Help me God to only be about You. Don't let my personal feelings impact what you hate. I pray that I can read Your word each day and understand it and not read into it. Let me accept it and read it for what it is. God, I want to be that person that hates evil. I don't want to go along with it simply because others do. I want to stand up and be strong. O God, help me to truly be that person. I am to hate what you hate, but I admit a struggle with this so often and knowing what it is. Truth is hard for me often to come by. 

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

Proverbs 11:21 - Descendants of the Righteous

Proverbs 11:21

Assuredly, the evil man will not go unpunished,

But the descendants of the righteous will be delivered. 

Message: Descendants of the Righteous

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: At first glance this verse looks familiar. Verse 4, "Righteousness delivers from death." Verse 5, "The wicked will fall." Verse 6, "The righteousness of the upright will deliver them." Verse 8, "The righteous is delivered from trouble" and "through knowledge the righteous will be delivered." These verses continue to contrast the upright and the wicked with slight alterations in describing the outcomes of the evil man versus the righteous. 

Assuredly, the evil man will not go unpunished

Justice is a very important theme in the Bible. The word is more common in the Old Testament with few references in the New Testament. As I've studied the time of David and Saul and others in 1 and 2 Samuel I have noticed that the line between God rewarding people with safety in this present life is fairly close meaning there often isn't much different between those that receive life versus death. In other words, there is a clear contrast in the Bible between those that are favored versus those that are punished. And so Solomon here gives a clear contrast here with the evil man and righteous. 

The King James Version says, "Though hand join in hand" meaning that their is a collective effort by the wicked. NASB says "Assuredly." 

But the descendants of the righteous will be delivered. 

Beyond the righteous only, this verse now highlights the descendants. Thus, the actions of one generation impact the next. Most of what I am gleaning from these verses is found here. Like the statement, righteousness is often associated with faithfulness to God's commandments and a life lived in accordance with His will. 

This makes me think how I am actively living a life of righteousness. I hope our children are seeing us choose righteousness, not simply going along with the activities of our world but choosing activities that please God. Hopefully they see me investing in people's lives, both online and in real life. But righteous living is also seeking to glorify God in my activities, trusting God. And speaking of this in my life. I would like them to see someone that not only reads God words, but practices it. I hope they see my deep care for people and their well being. I hope they see that we need to be a people that gives to those in need. 

Ultimately, I want to see my descendants choosing God in their lives and making their relationship with God important in all the days of their lives, also having a devotion to God. I hope we are people in which our activities are spent doing things that glorify God. 

This morning I was listening to this song -- "It's the Truth" by Dogwood from 1975. It had this chorus:

It's the truth

My sin has made me just as good as dead

But Jesus said, "I took your place

On the cross I bore your shame and disgrace

So, child, with your face, it's all right

I heard you prayin' early in the night

I made it right, it's the truth

You don't have to suffer when you're dead"

He made it right. I don't have to suffer. Jesus has suffered for me. He took my place. He bore my shame and disgrace. Today is Easter / Resurrection Day. 

Prayer: Thank you God for giving this one person not what he deserves but giving me grace. Thank you for taking my place. O God, pass on any righteousness you have given me to my children. Remove evil from me, including any selfishness. 

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

Proverbs 11:19 - A Godly Lifestyle

Proverbs 11:19

He who is steadfast in righteousness [will attain] to life,

And he who pursues evil [will bring about] his own death. 

Message: A Godly lifestyle

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: The previous verse looked similar contrasting the wicked with the one pursuing righteousness and this verse takes on a similar idea. However, the person described here is not momentary in their pursuit of righteousness but steadfast or loyal or unwavering. This is a person with a track record of righteousness. The contrast is one that pursues evil. These two descriptions are contrasting not momentary decisions but multiple decisions over a period of time - with one person consistently righteous and the other pursuing evil. 

The righteous person attains life and life is what everyone is seeking - peace, prosperity, and spiritual fulfillment. It is doing things well. One of my favorite verses is I Timothy 4:8 which says, "bodily discipline is only of little profit, but godliness is profitable for all things, since it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come." Living for godliness, for righteousness is not only producing present day quality of life but a future life as well. That I might do things always that point in this direction. I want every moment of the day to go in this direction. 

It seems life is a matter of choosing righteousness and deciding what is really righteousness. It is about being unself and looking out for other's interests. Philippians 2:4, "do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others." Pleasing myself is the easy part of life and what I gravitate towards always. I need to be focused on others and meeting their needs. 

In contrast, pursuing evil leads to death. And specifically my own death. Romans 6:23 states, "For the wages of sin is death." Working sin results in death. Am I pursuing Godly ways in my life - reading His word, fellowshipping with others, praying, sharing the message of the Gospel. Death is separation from God. Life is being with God for all eternity, death is being away from God for all eternity. 

I notice a clear effort in business these days to be more in pursuit of serving others and being pleasant and attending to their needs and this is what the Christian is to be about, but not simply to make a business strong or to please a boss, but it is to glorify God. 

Several years ago, I read and did a study of Respectable Sins from Jerry Bridges. These are the sins of life that are sometimes socially acceptable, but often what we focus on is life is big sins like are mentioned in the Ten Commandments which we all know to avoid. And yet these sins are impacting our lives and how we associate with others.  

Ungodliness

Anxiety and Frustration

Discontentment

Unthankfulness

Pride

Selfishness

Lack of self-control

Impatience 

Irritability

Anger

Judgmentalism

Envy, Jealousy

Sins of the Tongue

Worldliness

I think the danger in life always is living lives that are the best they can be and not simply good lives. Being the best is difficult and challenging and selfless. It is staying focused always on others. It is making decisions that go beyond the basics of life. 

Prayer: God, I ask that I am someone in life that pursues righteousness, pursues good behavior, but not simply doing what everyone seeks, but am truly unselfish for the glory of You and seeing truth and seeking life always. Help me to not get comfortable and revert to pleasing myself. But to pursue righteousness always and consistently. Remind me of the principles I really want in my life - focusing on the big rocks of life and pursuing those big rocks. Lord, keep me uncomfortable and keep me focus on pursuing things that are good always, in all situations and let me do it always to glorify You. 

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

2 Samuel 11 - David Does Evil in the Eyes of the Lord

2 Samuel 11

But the thing that David had done was evil in the sight of the Lord. (verse 27b)

Message: David Does Evil in the Eyes of the Lord

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: I have been developing this habit for some time now. Every now and then I like to stop and reflect on it. The habit here is reading the Bible. Granted, in my bent towards heavy discipline I know I tend to get obsessed with making these posts each day, but the obsession is really getting into the word each day to be trained. I am seeking to be trained in Godliness and yet this simple reading and writing is the education. What I am trying to do is have these lessons transform me into living life differently and yet I know that is not automatic. I am begging the Holy Spirit to reshape me. I suppose not only this, but in other things in life, like regular involvement in online ministry or talking to others more intentionally, though I notice that at times being squandered often by the distractions of work. I also am reading more and it seems reading is a better pastime than sitting in front of the tube, though I drift back to the tube very often as it is mindless and I suppose I need that mindless activity at times. I suppose I want to make sure I am living within the margins of life, living in balance, and not too focused in any one area. 

Well, back to regular scheduled program. For the first time in my reading of I and II Samuel, I am now on a text in which I actually have substantial notes in my Bible. It seems at some point in my past Christian life of reading and study I have looked at these texts now beginning in Chapter 11. I am not sure of the time frame of these notes, but I would guess prior to 2012 and probably after 1997. So somewhere between 30 and 45. I am now 58. 

This chapter is 27 verses and in my Open Bible has the headings - "The Sin of Adultery", "Uriah Does not Sleep with Bathsheba", and "David Commands Uriah's Murder." 

The Sin of Adultery

In verse 1 it means that it is spring and this is occurring "at the time" as I have the note that only certain times would the state of the country permit the march of armies. Well, that is interesting, so marching of armies was not at any time, but at specific times. Nevertheless, David sent Joab (who is over his army) "and they destroyed the sons of Ammon and besieged Rabbah" while David "stayed at Jerusalem." The note I have is David stayed and exposed himself to the temptation of idleness. It is one thing to stop and think and ponder, but another simply to be idle and have no agenda with one's time. It is in this idleness that one is lured into temptation. 

The time is about 3pm and David got up and "walked around on the roof the king's house, and from the roof he saw a woman bathing; and the woman was beautiful in appearance." Something tells me this was not the first time David had seen this beautiful woman. One issue with temptation is once it is discovered in life, the tendency to return to it is very strong. Once pandora's box is opened, we know who is out there and so we return to it to repeat the feeling it gives. But at this time the text records she was bathing. Now the comment here I have is David had the right to claim unmarried women. He had wives and lots of them. It was in his power to have women. That is something to think about with the many people, including later his son Samson and that their position afforded them the opportunity to take unmarried women for himself. In essence, he wasn't breaking a law. He was going along with a prescribed advantage given him. And that advantage was now a normal occurrence in his life. 

David inquires of her and verse 3 states that from the inquiry someone said, "Is this not...the wife....?" The question was raised, but David chose to ignore the question. I think of I Corinthians 10:13 in this moment, "No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, that you may be able to endure it." David was given the way out. But he ignored it. His desire for her had been determined the moment he inquired about her. He wanted her and no response mentioned was going to change that. But he was given an opportunity and he ignored it. 

He go her, had sex, she returned home, and she became pregnant. 

Uriah Does not Sleep with Bathsheba

Moving to verse 6, I have an alternate title for this section -- David tries to hide his sin by deceiving Uriah. Once the sin has been conceived and performed, now the escape shows up. Though he has done something in his power, he did not have the power to take a married woman. And because of that sin, that known sin, he wants to find a way out from that circumstance. He wants to respond in the same way Cain responded to the Lord, "I do not know. Am I my brother's keeper." David is now going to seek to escape the clear consequences he knows is needed in this situation. 

David sent for Uriah. Uriah has returned from battle and David lets him know that his service is complete and tells him to return home. The pregnancy is now out and David wants to cover his tracks by having Uriah immediately go lie with with wife. He even sends him a valuable present, something a king would send. But Uriah doesn't go. He's a soldier and the soldier's responsibility is to his king. Uriah mentions something of the ark of the covenant and guarding it. His promise as a soldier is important. Now David must switch his plans so seeing Uriah's allegiance he seeks now to get him drunk so that he forgets his senses, but this doesn't work either. Darn it! This guy is ruining my plans for completing the act of deception. 

And isn't this what we do. We plan our escape route even I think, in the back of our mind, while we are performing the act of treason (toward God and ourselves) by engaging in the act of sin. Oh, that this lesson is too familiar. Oh that I have a problem with knowing about this and knowing how to document it too easily with these words. I have been guilty of the same, too often. I have followed the desire of looking away from my wife and instead fallen into the embrace of a picture that brings an enjoyment to rescue me from whatever was ailing me at the time. I sought the good feeling and got it but then planned the escape route. At times, I escape, but at other times I do not. O God, I am not a judge here, but a conspirator. 

David Commands Uriah's Murder

It is interesting in this story as to what time period this chapter encompasses. Probably something like weeks. Not sure, as verse 14 could be days or weeks later in which David writes a letter to Joab to give to Uriah to place Uriah in the line of fire. The phrase is different in verse 14 as it says, "and sent it by the hand of Uriah" which basically gives the idea that Uriah is commanding his own death sentence. David had tried to send Uriah home to be his wife, but that didn't work, so he got him drunk and send him home, but that did not work. So now he cannot be exposed. He can't let the sin simply be found out and face consequences, so he kills off the consequences. 

This is the other problem in all of this and that is the unwillingness to let consequences show up. We fear them. We like our sin and even as we plot an escape, if it doesn't work, we make sure it won't be found out. 

The reality is in this situation that the crime of adultery by a king would have been lightly pardoned, but David resorts to extreme measures rather than face the subject. Also, Joab could have refused. He knew what this was all about, so Joab, though not to blame, was not a person of nobility either. That was seen in the last chapter as well. 

So Uriah goes to the frontline and is killed. David find out about this through a messenger that Joab sends. The messenger though first talks about the battle and basically says, "Oh by the way, Uriah also died." I suppose Joab did this so that David wouldn't get reinforcement that his actions were premeditated to get Uriah killed. I guess we do this as well. Even after we seek out an escape route for our sin, we try to set it up like it isn't that bad or that we didn't actually have that horrible intention. 

The last verse concludes the episode as David brings Bathsheba to be his wife, they have the son, "But the thing that David had done was evil in the sight of the Lord."

I suppose that conclusion is needed as a reminder that - this is not right. This is evil. One could say David was successful in hiding his sin, but God knew differently.  God knows. 

Summary: David does not go with kings to battle and instead in idleness sees a woman on a roof, asks her to be brought to him, lays with her, she gets pregnant and he hides his sin by eventually having the husband killed, but God knows.

Promise: God sees everything.

Prayer: Lord, it is good to remember that in life you see everything. I confess I have hidden sin and tried to make it look like I have done nothing wrong, but you see it and you know. I think at times I have received consequences as well from my sin. And at times this still doesn't make me learn or change. Let me take my sin more seriously and that it would mean something that I have sinned against you. 

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

I Samuel 18:1-16 - David Ascendant

I Samuel 18:1-16

Now Saul was afraid of David, for the Lord was with him but had departed from Saul. (verse 12)

Message: David Ascendant

Time: This book is a biography of Samuel's life and career up to his death. It took place over a period of about 110 years, stretching from the closing days of the judges, when Samuel was born (ca. 1120 BC) through the death of Saul (1011 BC).

What the Lord is Saying: After David's victory over Goliath, the Philistine, David goes to Saul. 17:58 is still a rather baffling verse in which Saul says to David, "Whose son are you, young man?" Back in 16:21 it says "David came to Saul and attended him, and Saul loved him greatly; and he because his armor bearer." It seems from that verse that Saul knew David. I have read some commentaries on this, but nothing seems very compelling other than David maybe had aged as we don't know the time span between David being in Saul's court and the David that defeated Goliath. 17:12 mentions David having 8 children. So perhaps time has elapsed since he was playing a harp in Saul's court. That seems to be the most probable explanation. 

Chapter 18 begins with a proclamation of Jonathan's close bond with David stating "Jonathan loved him as himself." Both Jonathan and David were men that had a trust in the Lord. In verse 3 "Jonathan made a covenant with David" to cement their kindred spirit and close relationship. And then Jonathan gives David his noble dress - his robe and armor. David most likely was still dressed as a servant. He had previously refused the armor from Saul when it was offered to him prior to fighting Goliath in 17:38. But here, from the hand of Jonathan he accepts them. Suddenly David is looking like a member of the King's court. 

Jonathan in chapter 14 had conquered the Philistine garrison though in that story Saul also showed up and took most of the credit. But in this situation, the people seem to know more clearly that David was the victor of Goliath. In verse 7, "the women sang as they played and said, "Saul has slain his thousands, and David his ten thousands."" Saul does not like anyone else being in the limelight. And so verse 10 says, "Now it came about on the next day that an evil spirit from God, came mightily upon Saul." 

This seems to show that the Spirit of God moves in and out of people. There is the Holy Spirit that I believe is sent to believers in Christ after Jesus comes to the earth, but there is also the mention of the filling of the Spirt in a person's life as in Ephesians 5:18, "do not get drunk with wine, in which there is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit." It seems that this is the spirit that moved in Saul previously at his anointing (I Samuel 10:6), but that was the Spirit of the Lord and now the continued selfishness of Saul results in this evil spirit. The evil spirit I believe is the result of a disposition in man that is already focused more on self than pleasing God (as mentioned in Romans 1). 

Saul removes David from his presence and places him as his commander, undoubtedly also thinking that David may end up dying in battle. But even in this it backfires on Saul because David will now be seen even more before the people and they will see more of the person that he is. 

Summary: David is now in Saul's court. Jonathan and David's friendship is marked by a covenant between them. Saul does not like David being near and puts him in command of his army. 

Promise: Ask the Lord to enable us to rejoice in the success of others.

Prayer: Lord God, I am thankful for Jonathan and is friendship with David and his desire to support him and give him the best clothes off of his back. Their friendship began because of their commitment to You and is a reminder that this is the hallmark of good friendships. I thank you for the men that you have placed in my life and the special bond I have with each one. It is different from any other relationship and thank you for each one and the encouragement we can share, spurring one another on to love and good deeds. You are to be praised and adored as David and Jonathan both did and as you possess and are in others good things happen. Show me these victories Lord. I need this encouragement for sometimes I get to me-focused and getting my needs met. 

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

Proverbs 10:23 - Evil as a Sport

Proverbs 10:23 

Doing wickedness is like sport to a fool, and so is wisdom to a man of understanding. 

Message: Evil as a Sport

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: To do evil is like sport to a fool,
But a man of understanding has wisdom.

I’ve noticed in my life unfortunately times when evil has been like a sport or competition or obsession in my life. It does become a game because there is a right way of living and to choose an alternate path when all those around you prescribe the good way, then we have a tendency to make it a game. 

There is a competitive aspect to it - almost like you are outdoing one another. -- Enduring Word Commentary

Evil at some point in a persons life is done without shame or remorse or fear. Evil has become acceptable behavior. For me personally, the gay pride parades seem like evil. That we have moved to celebrating this alternative lifestyle seems like it has moved to a sport. It seems like it is a celebration in these parades as - look at me. Look at who I am. 

On the contrary a man of understanding which is our goal - is a man of wisdom. 

This person avoids evil. This person is to understanding what the evil man is to wickedness. 

This person has a pleasure in doing good. 

So instead of celebrating only me, the man of understanding seeks to celebrate others. The focus is not on self but on others. It is on Jesus and others.  I think of serving others and meeting other people’s needs. For many that becomes the sport. It is figuring out with my time how to make others first. 

Prayer: God, it is great to take these thoughts and concepts and analyze and think about them. It is interesting to think about what I value and then what is most important. Thank you for guiding me into truth. 

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

Judges 12 and 13 - The Birth of Samson

Judges 12 and 13

For behold, you shall conceive and give birth to a son, and no razor shall come upon his head, for the boy shall be a Nazirite to God from the womb; and he shall begin to deliver Israel from the hands of the Philistines. - Verse 5

Message: The Birth of Samson

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: In verse 1 of chapter 12, the men of Ephraim are bothered with Jephthah. He fought the Ammonites as the "Spirt of the Lord" came upon him and he subdued them "before the people of Israel" (11:33). The men of Ephraim wanted to go. This is reminiscent of chapter 8 when the men of Ephraim came also to Gideon bothered that they were not called when he fought Midian. Jephthah remarks that he did try to call them and they refused, but what is done is done. Ephraim continues to be bitter rather than celebrating the victories. Jephthah then conquered Ephraim. And eventually 42,000 died. I am not sure if the Lord was over this work Jephthah had done, but no reason to think he was not. Jephthah is recorded in Hebrews 11:32-33 as someone who by faith conquered kingdoms. He judged 6 years (12:8). And yet I am not sure the Hebrews verse gives the idea that any of those individuals were flawless as I don't think Jephthah was. He did exercise faith, but he might have also done things uncharacteristic of a man of faith as others might have done, but that's okay. God works in many different people's lives. 

I think of Ravi Zacharias. A man who was celebrated as a leading apologist and could debate well often and an evangelical minister, but following his death in 2020 it was discovered he a sexual harassment issues for many years of his ministry and just like that, all of his works were silenced. Definitely can't excuse his sin, but does that nullify all of his work? Can Ravi still be called a man of faith? 

The chapter ends with the mention of 3 more judges: Ibzan, Elon, and Abdon. Ibzan had 60 children and married them all. Jephthah had 1 child. Some are increased, others diminished; all is the Lord’s doing. Ibzan judged 7 years. Elon judged 10 years. No children mentioned. Abdon had 40 sons and judged 8 years. 

Chapter 13 begins with a familiar word, "the sons of Israel again did evil in the sight of the Lord, so that the Lord gave them into the hands of the Philistines forty years." After many years of having judges, the people once again acquiesce into the ways and manners of the people among them and start looking less like a servant of God and more like the people of the Word. The entire chapter chronicles the announcement of Samson to his father Manoah by an angel of the Lord. He would grow up and be blessed by the Lord (13:24). 

It is interesting as this entire chapter chronicles the angel of the Lord's announcement and the surprise of his father Manoah and all that the father wants to do in response of this announcement for the angel of the Lord. These angels of the Lord are often quite interesting in our Bible. Manoah was reluctant to believe. In many ways, like Gideon who wanted confirmations as well. But like Gideon, it did not matter with God - he was going to make it happen even through the questions of a person. He has a plan - a sovereign plan for people. It is a reminder once again that God works and He works often through imperfect people. And that is okay. 

Summary: Jephthah conquers Ephraim. Judges Ibzan, Elon, and Abdon follow. Then Israel does evil in the sight of the Lord and the angel of the Lord announces to Manoah and his wife the birth of Samson. 

Promise: People need to see that we believe in the Lord. But it is rarely a perfect belief. But let them sill see - our children and those around us. 

Prayer: God, you remind me in these verses to keep fighting the fight and keep continuing the faith. It is one of perseverance and endurance but it is rarely perfect. There are questions and it is important to pray through those questions, for your will in me and for me to know you better through life. I do pray for your intervention - your providence. 

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

Judges 6:1-32 - The Lord Calls Gideon

Judges 6:1-32

Then Gideon took ten men of his servants and did as the Lord had spoken to him; and because he was too afraid of his father’s household and the men of the city to do it by day, he did it by night (verse 27). 

Message: The Lord Calls Gideon

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: Chapter 6 begins with familiar footing - verse 1 - "Then the sons of Israel did what was evil in the sight of the Lord." This seems to be the theme of this book. Back and forth. Evil. Discipline. Prayer. Restoration. When we sin or abandon the Lord, we receive punishment. The evil that is done is defined by the Lord. Verse 1 - "and the Lord gave them into the hands of Midian seven years." 

But it seems like there is this cycle of life - we live and trust God and then we go wayward - falling in line with the way of the world. Our hearts and our minds become far from God. And perhaps bad times come to our lives. Though we often don’t characterize these times as God judging us. Life does seem to be hard because that’s the way it is and then also hard though because of us doing evil. 

Verse 2 begins to describe what this discipline looked like to Israel. Israel had to hide in the mountains and caves because Midian was so cruel to them. Israel planted crops and Midian attacked them, destroying the crops and leaving them with nothing to eat. Eventually, the land was stripped bear. Israel was starving. Verse 6, "and the sons of Israel cried to the Lord." The Midianite people in stealing produce and taking livestock is partly the result of the oppression of Israel. 

We are like this. We get into the consequences of our actions, get disciplined and it begins to hurt us so much and at this low point we cry out to the Lord. "Please God - take this away." 

A nameless prophet is sent to Israel to speak to them on behalf of the Lord, telling them or reminding them of the works of God and how God had rescued them - "I who brought you up from Egypt and brought you out from the house of slavery." God did these things for us. God was faithful and delivered them (us). God directed them and told them what to do but they did not listen. It is important to God that his people underhand their wayward ways. We need to be convicted. God wants to get personal with us. 

The angel of the Lord visits Gideon and says in verse 12, "The Lord is with you, O valiant warrior." Gideon though doesn't understand for if God is with them then why have all of these bad things been happening to them. The hard times we experience could be God looking at all of us as a body rather than simple as individuals. In verse 14 the Lord says to Gideon, "deliver Israel from the hand of Midian." This will be the role of Gideon - to deliver the people. Again Gideon wonders and again the Lord says to him (verse 16), "Surely I will be with you." And Gideon asks for a sign of confirmation. 

I took a moment to study this idea of God speaking to the prophet and saying that He was with him. The prophet Isaiah foresaw the virgin birth of Messiah - stating Immanuel which means "God with us." Jesus is God with us. God had been with His people always—in the pillar of cloud above the tabernacle, in the voice of the prophets, in the ark of the covenant. Yes, prophets have been needed and they are a part of our history. But once Jesus came on the scene - God with us. God is with us. You and I have direct access to God. The writer of Hebrews said it, "God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son." Jesus is all we need now, but then we needed prophets to help us. 

Gideon asks for a sign from the angel of the Lord. He prepares a young goat, flour, and unleavened bread and brings it out to the angel of the Lord in a pot. He is told to lay them out on a rock, pouring broth over them. The angel put a staff out and fire sprung up and consumed the bread and meat. Gideon had received his confirmation. Yet even in this story we see the weakness of Gideon in not simply trusting the Lord. 

Verse 25 records direction from the Lord for Gideon to pull down the altar of Baal (sun god) and the nature goddess Asherah as these were important to his father and the entire community. Baal's altar must be overthrown before God's altar can be built. He does this by taking his father's bull and then another bull that is 7 years old and throwing it down upon the altar. He seemed to be exercising the sin of his father and the people. Following taking these down he built an altar to the Lord. But Gideon does it at night rather than be seen by all during the day. He is obedient but he will define how he will be obedient. The next day thought the men of the city arose and saw what had been done and upon inquiry discovered it was Gideon. The men want Gideon's father Joash to deliver Gideon over to them, but Joash somewhat refuses and saved his sons life in the process. Rather than the men killing him, the father states that Baal has the power to do it.  And his father names Gideon, "Jerubbaal" which means that he will contend with Baal. 

Judges is recording the trust that people place in other gods. Again, there is a difference among people - those that are saved and those that are not saved. There is clearly an opposition in the world of the things of God. We should not be surprised. What we can find comfort in is that God will care for us and always rescue us and always provide a way out of these non-Godly situations. 

Summary: The people are recorded once again as doing evil in the sight of God. God disciplines then and then provides Gideon to correct them though Gideon is stubborn in His trust of God. 

Promise. Let us continually guard against being feared by man. 

Prayer. God you are God and Lord. You are holy and my creator. You are faithful and my provider. You are persistent in caring for me and you continue to correct me so that I will fear you. I am a sinner. Thank you for these lessons and helping me see the condition of man that does not change despite different environments. Thank you for providing all that you have to help me be obedient but still I must act. Still I must trust You Lord. Thank you for giving me rest continually. And providing so many good opportunities for that. But help me to live in a manner that honors You continually. 

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

John 19:12-16 - Pilate Sentences Jesus to Death

John 19:12-16

12 As a result of this Pilate made efforts to release Him, but the Jews cried out, saying, "If you release this Man, you are no friend of Caesar; everyone who makes himself out [to be] a king opposes Caesar." 13 When Pilate therefore heard these words, he brought Jesus out, and sat down on the judgment seat at a place called The Pavement, but in Hebrew, Gabbatha. 14 Now it was the day of preparation for the Passover; it was about the sixth hour. And he said to the Jews, "Behold, your King!" 15 They therefore cried out, "Away with [Him], away with [Him], crucify Him!" Pilate said to them, "Shall I crucify your King?" The chief priests answered, "We have no king but Caesar." 16 So he then delivered Him to them to be crucified. 

Message: Pilate Sentences Jesus to Death

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: It remains interesting in this act of Jesus going to the cross as to how it was all orchestrated. It was not simply God making a statement from heaven for him to go to the cross, as a perfect man, without sin, and bear the punishment for sin. I know that idea and message is coming in a study future I would think I would have - the atonement - for it is the crux it seems for the Christian faith. 

But overall these verses in chapter 18 and 19 which tell of Jesus and what led to Him being crucified show that He was viewed as a criminal and therefore subject to consequences and in this case, that consequence was to be crucified. 

The Jewish officials knew that they had to present to Pilate an accusation of Jesus that Pilate would find worthy of crucifixion. Pilate struggled to see the application but the Jewish officials remained persistent and today in verse 12 is the accusation that as King, even though the claim was only of the Jews, as King, Jesus then opposed Caesar. In other words, it is clear, nothing was going to prevent Jesus from being found guilty. The Jewish people were going to try at all costs to get him crucified. The desire for his demise was too great. And yet, it had to be in order to save us sinners eventually from eternal separation from God. 

Then in verse 15, Pilate asks, "Shall I crucify your King?" and the Jewish people answer that Caesar is their king. And so what takes place is the mocking moniker on Jesus that He is King of the Jews. Jesus had to die. I suppose what is interesting is we don't need to be mad at anyone. God used the events of the world to send His Son to the cross to then die for our sins. 

Other Verses
Genesis 50:20 - As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good in order to bring about this present result, to preserve many people alive. - Interesting verse that is quoted often. People are responsible for their actions but God still uses the good and bad actions of people alike to still accomplish his purposes. 

Mark 15:6-15 - In these verses we have a similar retelling of Jesus crucifixion and Pilate presenting Jesus to the Jewish officials but with the words, "what evil has He done?” Pilate makes the case but not to the degree that he will enforce it. He still gives into the demands of the Jewish contingent. 

Summary: Jesus is presented as King of the Jews in order to show He is somewhat equal to Caesar as King and incite in Pilate to crucify Him which the Jews continue to want. 

Promise: The crucifixion of Jesus is the supreme example that God is working in all things for the good of His people. 

Prayer: O God, You are sovereign which means that you orchestrate the events of life for Your good, allowing the choices of man to bring about your good. You are in control and by this prayer I acknowledge that You are in control and yet I plea, I beg, I request that You work and that Your will be done. Thank you for giving us the answer that You want this of us and we are involved with You in Your works. Continue to teach me about prayer. Thank you for the salvation gift of Jesus that I don't deserve. You are in control. 

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

John 17:14-16 - Staying in the World

John 17:14-16

14 I have given them Thy word; and the world has hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. 15 I do not ask Thee to take them out of the world, but to keep them from the evil [one]. 16 They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. 

Message: Staying in the World

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: As I mentioned in the last lesson, this prayer by Jesus does not so far have much intercession. Instead it is him speaking to God and describing his relationship with God and who He is in relation to God and who the disciples are as well. The actual requests for people are not predominant, but instead through these words are truths and promises that he is speaking. I continue to find this interesting. Most of my prayers or the prayers I heard are so focused on God doing something in our lives. I mean, it is good I guess that we come to God admitting we need his help. Like at our small group meeting yesterday, as I listened to the requests and how focused they are on making our lives better. There was some praise which was good. There is mention of people that are important to us and we don't want to see them hurt. 

And yet, as I listened to this and then also read this prayer I see so little intercession. Yesterday in the lesson, there were two thoughts of request -- "Holy Father, keep them in Thy name" and "that they may have My joy made full in themselves." Every other word is acknowledging truths. 

In our home group, Bill had us read Psalm 47. This is only a Psalm of praise. No requests. Just thankful to God. Interesting. 

Hated by the world - So today's passage begins (v. 14) with Jesus stating that He has given His disciples God's words. And the world does not like them because of this. With God's word with them, they are not popular before the world. Why are they hated? Because they are not of the world. They are not living according to its ways. Wow. We see this often. And yet we are baffled by this. It seems by our comments that we expect the world to live in a Godly way or manner. They are the world. Our job is to save them, not to complain about them purely. If we see a problem, then we do something about it. 

Stay in the world - In verse 15 we have 2 requests that I see. First they are to stay in the world. Jesus wants us in the world. "I do not ask Thee to take them out of the world." He wants us in the world. He wants us to be a light, to shine brightly. I just wonder in all of our complaining about the world, if we are really shining brightly in this world of ours. Are we really being a bright light to our world? 

I started reading a book called, "Sharing Jesus [without freaking out]" and in the beginning of the book he offers what I saw was a 3 fold description of why we are sharing the gospel with people. We can (1) help people see that their life matters, (2) that their passion to live comes from God, and (3) that the good news of Jesus can rescue them from pain. I love these words because of what is said - life matters, living is from God, and Jesus rescues us from the pain. There is pain living in the world. But Jesus gives us peace through that pain. I just love those words. I just don't think we approach the gospel sometimes in that way. God, yes, wants to give us eternal life, but he also wants to bring something to our life today - that it matters and we are anchored by God and he frees us from pain. That is the bright light we need to be. 

Be kept from the evil one - And also in verse 15 is the charge from Jesus to "keep them from the evil [one]." Again, we are to stay in the world, but be kept from the evil one. The reality is that the evil one, and Jesus recognizes this, is at work in the world. Evil is in the world. Jesus does want us to be free from this and he is praying this for us. Don't let the evil get a hold of you. We are not of the world, just as Jesus is not of the world, but we live in it. 

Summary: Jesus says in this prayer we will be hated by the world, but we are to stay in the world and he prays that we (disciples) will be kept from the evil one. 

Promise: From Tabletalk, "Let us resolve to stand for Christ today, no matter the consequences, knowing that in Him we have everything.

Prayer: Lord God, thank you for explaining to me the truth of You and Your Word and also training me in the way I need to speak to you. I learn from you God and see that prayer is talking to you and in my talking I want to be someone who takes time to speak in such a way that I acknowledge you for the great God that you are. I do this in my singing in church, but I also need to do it with my own words, in quiet, declaring who you are and all that you have done for me. Teach me Lord to pray this way. My words can be few for my requests. And yet they rarely are because I am so good at talking about those things in life that are dear to me. Lord, you are holy. The truth of you is that You love people. All that You want to do God is make yourself known in creation. 

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

I Samuel 16:14-23 - The Power of Music

I Samuel 16:14-23

14 Now the Spirit of the Lord departed from Saul, and an evil spirit from the Lord terrorized him. 15 Saul’s servants then said to him, “Behold now, an evil spirit from God is terrorizing you. 16 Let our lord now command your servants who are before you. Let them seek a man who is a skillful player on the harp; and it shall come about when the evil spirit from God is on you, that he shall play the harp with his hand, and you will be well.” 17 So Saul said to his servants, “Provide for me now a man who can play well and bring him to me.” 18 Then one of the young men said, “Behold, I have seen a son of Jesse the Bethlehemite who is a skillful musician, a mighty man of valor, a warrior, one prudent in speech, and a handsome man; and the Lord is with him.” 19 So Saul sent messengers to Jesse and said, “Send me your son David who is with the flock.” 20 Jesse took a donkey loaded with bread and a jug of wine and a young goat, and sent them to Saul by David his son. 21 Then David came to Saul and attended him; and Saul loved him greatly, and he became his armor bearer. 22 Saul sent to Jesse, saying, “Let David now stand before me, for he has found favor in my sight.” 23 So it came about whenever the evil spirit from God came to Saul, David would take the harp and play it with his hand; and Saul would be refreshed and be well, and the evil spirit would depart from him.

Message: The Power of Music

Time: The events that happen in 1 Samuel took place over a period of about 110 years, stretching from the closing days of the judges, when Samuel was born (ca. 1120 BC) through the death of Saul (1011 BC). We see the birth of Samuel, his call from God and subsequent prophetic ministry, the rise and fall of King Saul, and the anointing and maturity of young David.

What the Lord is Saying:

Music is powerful in our lives and in worship. Music has been a big part of my life. I can remember getting hooked on buying 45s when I was a kid, probably around the age of 7 is when I started this (Mr. Jaws). And then buying my first album a year later at 8. And it simply continued. I rarely get focused on one song though and rather like artists and many songs that an artist performs. But music has been a constant in my life.

In church, I have seen music be a little controversial. It seems around the late 90s and early 2000s when praise and worship music began to be more of a centerpiece in the Christian music industry, churches also began to introduce these tunes in worship resulting in different styles of music in a service and some churches choosing to have a contemporary service and others a traditional worship service (this is captured so well in this movie - Jesus Music). I never was interested in attending something that was different because I liked the mix of the two - some traditional and some contemporary. Some churches believe there should only be acapella music and no instruments because instruments are not mentioned in the New Testament. I don't agree with this interpretation, but am fine with people that make this choice. 

Songs are played regularly at college sporting events as we celebrate with "our song." And even some couples think of "their song" when describing their relationship. Music is background noise most often at doctor's offices and everywhere we shop. 

Today's passage is an interesting one in that the evil spirit that torments Saul would flee whenever David took up his lyre and played for the king. 

So it came about whenever the evil spirit from God came to Saul, David would take the harp and play it with his hand; and Saul would be refreshed and be well, and the evil spirit would depart from him.

Wow! Music was significant 3000 years ago as well. Listening to music was refreshing and calmed Saul but also had power and moved the evil spirit away. This is a great reminder to me and also instruction that music can simply refresh and relax us but it can also have spiritual power in listening to it. Music in our churches in all of its controversy does impact us. I heard Russ Taff say once in an interview, though I'm guessing he was not the first to say this, that "Music has a way of speaking to us like nothing else in our world." That quote and line which I heard listening to an interview in the early 90s has always stuck with me. It has a way of speaking to us, like nothing else. 

Summary: Music was created by God. And as his creation, he uses it to testify of Him and to minister to us. There is a great power of music. 

Promise: Scripture prescribes no particular kind of music, so the choices of music we use in worship and even for leisure must be guided by Christian wisdom. 

Prayer: O God, my God, thank you for music. Thank you for creating music and the power that it is in our lives. Like so many things in life it speaks to a cacophony of gifts and expressions that speak of your great love for us. Often, it takes us to another place as we listen that is full of joy and happiness and praise to You. I see it in church and hear it in a concert or even a quiet song or instrumental. Lord, I am struck in amazement by your great love for us. It has impacted my life and my devotion. Thank you for prompting me at the moment in my life, at age 15, to center myself on the music that is to praise You. I am not to ever regret tossing those records in the trash for that was trading altars - the one I created for the one You created. I know some people have determined that this Christian music is not of You. I stand in question often how two well meaning Christ followers can have two opposite interpretations of Your Word and yet each of them glorify You. It reminds me at times that maybe there isn't a right way for some of these things, but in those convictions the result still is you are glorified and what matters is the heart and motive of the person - of me. You get my praise for music even from those that may not acknowledge You as Savior and yet for me in their music I can still praise you. 

Psalm 119:97-104 - Finding Guidance in the Law

Psalm 119:97-104

O How I love your law
It is my meditation all the day.
Your commandments make me wiser than my enemies,
For they are ever mine.
I have more insight than all my teachers,
For Your testimonies are my meditation.
I understand more than the aged,
Because I have observed Your precepts.
I have restrained my feet from every evil way,
That I may keep Your word.
I have not turned aside from Your ordinances,
For You Yourself have taught me.
How sweet are Your words to my taste!
Yes, sweeter than honey to my mouth!
From Your precepts I get understanding;
Therefore I hate every false way.

Message: Finding Guidance in the Law

Time: Psalms, a collection of lyrical poems, with multiple authors. David wrote 73 Psalms, though for 50 or so the author is unknown. Psalms means songs of praise. The writings span 1,000 years. They encourage us to praise God, illuminate the greatness of God, affirm His faithfulness in times of trouble, and remind us of the absolute centrality of His word. 

What the Lord is Saying:

October 5

Tabletalk records that "God's law is a place to find guidance for what pleases the Lord." The 10 commandments were used to help believers understand what kind of life God expects of His people. 

I have previously learned in this study that the Law primarily is a tool God uses to bring me to Christ, showing me what God expects and in turn bring me to Christ who is the only one that fulfills the Law. The temptation is the idea that obedience to God's word brings about salvation. We get too focused often on acts of obedience and can miss the grace of God; we think instead that obedience either completely or at a high level is what God seeks. So once we understand that salvation is not a measure of obedience, we can still see that the Law guides us into what pleases God. Obedience is really about praising God and seeking to please Him, than it being something that will benefit me. Granted, it will benefit me but my motivation should be towards praising God. 

Romans 7:12 - The Law is Holy. The commandment is Holy and Righteous and Good. 

When we love God we love His statutes and commands He has given us.

Psalm 119:97 O how I love Your law!
It is my meditation all the day.

I have been encouraged since a young age to memorize scripture. I remember my mom telling me my dad loved Psalm 1 so I memorized that (and remember lying down, looking at the stars in the backyard with my mom and reciting it). And then put other verses to memory that I still know today - 40  years later. In this practice, I've learned to love God's word as I repeat it again and again.

Psalm 119:98 Your commandments make me wiser than my enemies,
For they are ever mine.

Wisdom comes about through learning and knowing God's word. It anchors me and makes me wise. It 
gives me God's perspective on life. Another reason I should run to it.

October 7

Psalm 119:99 I have more insight than all my teachers,
For Your testimonies are my meditation.

There is a temptation in the Christian's life to possess pride and feel like we are better than others because in the study of God's word it is as if we have found a hidden treasure. But we must resist this and acknowledge God's spirit in us giving us this insight.

Psalm 119:100 I understand more than the aged,
Because I have observed Your precepts.

As I study God's word, I start to see it in action in my daily life -- I observe it. And in this process my understanding of all things of life increases.

Psalm 119:101 I have restrained my feet from every evil way,
That I may keep Your word.

My goal is to keep God's word. To have it hidden in my heart as I do this and rid evil from my life it opens me up to the good practice of keeping Thy word, following it.

Psalm 119:102 I have not turned aside from Your ordinances,
For You Yourself have taught me.

I am taught scripture by doing scripture by doing scripture. I can't do it if I don't know it. I sit under God's teaching when I make this his ordinances part of my life.

Psalm 119:103 How sweet are Your words to my taste!
Yes, sweeter than honey to my mouth!

Like candy, which makes my mouth feel good, God's word is my sweetness. Candy provides often a feeling of a reward and more than I deserve and this is what happens when I get God's word.

October 10

Psalm 119:104 From Your precepts I get understanding;
Therefore I hate every false way.

As I understand God's word, in turn, I see what is important to God and what glorifies Him and it helps me to hate falsehood. 

------

Thus, his Law needs to be one with my very being. This gives me knowledge of what pleases and displeases Him. Matthew 5:17-20 reminds me that the Law of God remains important; Jesus came to fulfill it. He is the only one that could. The law is meant to be kept.

October 11 

I'm thankful for the Word. I remain not perfect. This manifested itself in me last night when I pursued something not honoring to me, God, or my marriage. I'm taken back to God's word, His law and reminded one that I am week, in capable of meeting His perfect plan, but also in moments of weakness He needs to be my refuge. 

Promise: Love God. Love His Word. Keep His Word. Hate Falsehood. 

Prayer: Lord, your Word is a lamp to my life. Oh How I love your Law as it accompanies me throughout my day, pointing me in the direction I need to go. As I read Your word, it makes me wise and wiser than my enemies. I gain insight and understanding. And then as I observe your words and make them a part of my life my way or the path I walk is not on the path of evil. Your words are sweet to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth. From these words I get understanding. O God, remind me of this when I am struggling. I want to hate falsehood more. 

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.

Bringing me to Christ

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. 

Guiding our Lives

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 slaves to obedience and righteousness. Judaizing Legalism - The error of Judaizing Legalism is the idea that obedience brings about God's acceptance of us for salvation. The Deadliest Form of Legalism - This legalism is that one would get too focused on external practices instead of focusing on the heart.

The Law is our Guide

The Centrality of Love - Love and the law go hand in hand. We do not belong to God unless we love our neighbor, and we cannot love our neighbor without knowing and doing God‘s law and loving him.

Jeremiah 12

I have been starting to read the Bible through - following the M'Cheyne Reading Plan "Secret."

Today I read from Jeremiah 12 and prepared this outline based upon my thoughts from Enduring Word. 

What the Lord is Saying:

JEREMIAH'S QUESTION AND GOD'S ANSWER

Jeremiah's question to God - verses 1-4

• You are righteous God (1)
• Why does the way of the wicked prosper (1)
• The wicked have fruit which you plant (2)
• These wicked know God (speak it) but far from Him (their mind) (2)
• But, you Lord know me (3)
• Prepare the wicked for slaughter (judgment) (3)
• Because meanwhile the land mourns as this seemingly unfairness continues (4)

God's answer to Jeremiah - verses 5-6

• The Lord points him to the real issue - namely he has asked Jeremiah to do something and his response is to look around at the wicked and question their fruit (5)
• The Lord points out that Jeremiah is therefore questioning this present challenge, so how will he fare when the Lord asks him to do something else (5)
• The small challenge was adversity from family (11:21), the larger challenge will be adversity from those outside of family (6)

JUDAH AND HER ENEMIES

God abandons His People to their enemies - verses 7-8

• Jeremiah speaks to the future when God will give his dearly beloved into the hand of their enemies (7)
• Lord - "My people roar against me" - they rebel so God rejects them for a time (7)
• Judah will be as conspicuous as a speckled bird to its enemies and will provoke their opposition (8)

The mournful harvest of the Land - verses 10-13

• As judgment comes the land will be desolate (10-12)
• But the enemies (Babylonians) should take no pleasure because their harvest is because of the fierce anger of the Lord (13)

A promise of retribution and a promise of restoration - verses 14-15

• Even though God used Babylon as an instrument of His judgment, He would nevertheless judge them for their free will evil and brutality against Judah (14)
• Then he will have compassion on Judah (15)

A merciful promise to the nations - verses 16-17

• The Lord extends his grace even to the opposing Babylonians (16)
• Turning to the Lord is great blessing; Turning from the Lord is great judgment (17) 

Summary: I thought this was an interesting reading, namely because it starts with a question many people voice and that is, why do the wicked prosper. But the Lord's response is to not answer the question, but instead wonder why the question was asked and is concerned for Jeremiah and if he is asking this question now, then how will he handle future challenges. Jeremiah then speaks of the Judah being given over to the Babylonians and the judgment which will come from Judah's rejection of God. Eventually, he will have compassion, but Babylon will be the instrument of his judgment, and yet he still holds them accountable for their actions. The Babylonians can return and embrace the Lord. 

Promise: Even though God used Babylon as an instrument of His judgment, He would nevertheless judge them for their free will evil and brutality against Judah.

Prayer: Thank you Lord for the way in which Your word speaks. Questions that we think are new are not. Keep my eyes focused on You. Bring healing to the enemies of God. Draw them to you. Thank you for saving me and providing me compassion. Help me to be faithful to that call. 

Genesis 2:15-17- God's First Covenant with Mankind

Genesis 2:15-17
15 Then the Lord God took the man and put him into the garden of Eden to cultivate it and keep it. 16 The Lord God commanded the man, saying, “From any tree of the garden you may eat freely; 17 but from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat from it you will surely die.”

Message: God's First Covenant with Mankind

Time: Genesis is the first book and Moses is credited as authoring. The book spans 2400 years of time. It was originally written in Hebrew.

What the Lord is Saying:

The grace of God is God's unmerited favor that He shows to His elect and His initiative to save people from His Sin. When sharing with someone about grace, one way to illustrate it is to say that when a homeless man or a beggar comes up to you and asks for money, beggar can do nothing to repay you for any gift you give and when you hand him money you are being gracious. This is the picture of grace - receiving something and not being able to repay it. As Ephesians 2:8 states, "It is by grace you have been saved through faith and that not of yourselves. It is a gift of God."

In the opening book of the bible, Genesis, God records the interaction between himself and his created beings - Adam and Eve. As they are in the garden God gave man a mission: to cultivate it (the garden) and keep it. Man had a responsibility within the garden, a task or work to do. As they lived in the garden, they were to only know what God had commanded them to do and they were only to do that which He commanded. He said to cultivate the garden and keep it. God also mentioned a tree of the knowledge of good and evil. And the command was simply, do not eat from the tree.

Thus, this first covenant of the Bible between God and man marked the idea that man's obedience or man's works would inherit eternal life. The good deeds of obedience in being fruitful, taking dominion of the earth, and abstaining from the forbidden tree would have merited eternal life for Adam and his descendants. Any departure from this meant death. The first covenant given to man is  man is supposed to do what God commands.

By eating of the tree, the result was man now knows death and now man has not followed the covenant and it is not fulfilled.

Without the tree they were free and could do as they wish -- all was equally the same. But, the tree represented a paradigm shift - a knowledge of good and a knowledge of evil. Without partaking of the tree, they would have been obedient to the words of God and thus would have been declared righteous. Adam and Eve would have been righteous before the Lord and inherited eternal life.

Promise: Because of Adam's sin, we are corrupt and cannot please God apart from grace.

Prayer: Lord, as I think back to this first covenant you had with mankind, with Adam, I see that your intent was for us to cultivate the creation and keep it. Thus, I have a responsibility to what you have created. At one time, all that was needed to be known was righteous living. Lord, as I study this simple message, I am baffled as to how we make this simple message complicated and how so many are engulfed in the idea that man can ever make up on his own for that which you have commanded. Our own doing resulted in us being lost, but on our own we cannot merit your favor. Thank you for the truth of Your Word.


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 with April being about salvation by grace alone and how the Lord never fails to save the one whom He has purposed to save.

Isaiah 45:7 - Sovereign over Evil

Isaiah 45:7
The One forming light and creating darkness,
Causing well-being and creating calamity;
I am the Lord who does all these.

Message: Sovereign over Evil

Time: Isaiah prophesied from 739–681 BC to a nation that had turned a deaf ear to the Lord. He wanted to see the nation of Judah return to serving God with humility and love for their neighbors. But he was called to pronounce judgments to on a people offering meaningless sacrifices in the Temple and committing injustices throughout the nation. It provides the most prophetic picture of Jesus in the entire Old Testament.

What the Lord is Saying:

Previously, I concluded in saying that God controls all things, this does not mean then that God does all things which would mean then that God does evil. God is over all. But man still has free will, free choices. But we are not to be deceived into thinking that God s evil for only good gifts from God, the father of lights. The light is only light and there is no darkness in it at all.

Again, what has been recorded and known is God controls all things, but does not do all things. But, to take this a step further, God is still sovereign over evil. While God is not the one doing the evil, like men condemning Jesus to death on a cross; Jesus and his death on the cross was necessary. Crucifixion was necessary for all men to be free. Jesus knew he would die before He actually died. He also knew he would rise from the dead before it happened. In good, only God is the author and for good God receives all the credit. But, for evil, only man receives all the credit. Thus, theologians have come up with the doctrine of concurrence to describe the concurrence or two events happening at the same time and those two events are God's sovereignty and man's free will. Man chooses to do right or wrong, but God controls all that occurs. God allows free will, thus choices, thus bad choices, thus evil -- and in the end controls all things. This would mean then that God is sovereign over evil.

Outcomes can be the same but the intent of getting to those outcomes can be different. God and Joseph's brothers wanted Joseph to go to Egypt, but Joseph's brothers wanted him there for evil purposes while God wanted him there for good purposes.

God is no less in charge of good as he is in charge of evil. Isaiah 45:7 says - The One forming light and creating darkness, Causing well-being and creating calamity; I am the Lord who does all these. Thus, the idea here is that God does ordain good and He does ordain evil, but He is not responsible for the evil but rather man is responsible. Adam and Eve choosing to eat from the tree of knowledge and good evil was inevitable or ordained by God, but Adam and Eve are the one's that bear the responsibility. Thus, it is good that evil exists as good needs evil. By saying that the Lord created darkness and created calamity does not also say that he chooses darkness in people and chooses calamity. Man is still responsible for his/her choices. God created evil but man committed sin.

Promise: God is not pleased with evil in and of itself, but He does govern it so as to bring about greater good.

Prayer: Lord God you are over all. Your ways are not my ways. You only do good but You watch over all of life and take control. Lord, continue to help me to know You and trust You no matter what. I want to lean on You. Define my days. Thank you for love and what it means to love one another. Thank you for truth and thank you for being everything I need. Lord, as evil enters my life I ask that I continue to trust in You and not give into it.

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 with March being about the sovereign providence of God and looking at how the Bible reveals His control over all things.

James 1:16-17 - Sovereign Over Good

James 1:16-17
16 Do not be deceived, my beloved brethren. 17 Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow.

Message: Sovereign Over Good

Time: James is thought to be the brother of Jesus. He did not follow Jesus while he was on the earth, but became a follower and leader of the church at Jerusalem after Jesus' resurrection. It is written about AD 45-48. It is practical application of living a holy life. Faith produces a real change in a person.

What the Lord is Saying:

I have definitely slowed down this month in doing these devotionals on a daily basis. I think it is partly the subject matter: the sovereignty of God which says that God controls everything in life. While I have studied about man having free will it still remains difficult to see at times how they fit together. My conclusion is that man chooses and God works everything out for His good purpose based upon those choices. Yet there are physical laws that make things fall into place based upon those laws. And at times God has used miracles as well. Thus, to expand on this idea, God is first cause and He works through secondary causes. But, even as a sit here and describe this, it is hard to put it all together.

As I use this study and read these words from Tabletalk it continues to catch me off guard. Today's lesson starts with, "In affirming God's sovereign providence, we are careful to not that He is in full control of all that happens." Those words continue to make me stumble with the idea that there is free will. It says, "directing everything according to His purposes." Thus, is he directing our free will? This is supported from this verse in Ephesians 1:11 - we have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to His purpose who works all things after the counsel of His will which I commented on in the previous study. My conclusion was this idea that "he is in full control of all that happens" means he has created man's position, namely the will of man to choose.

This is further clarified by asking the question - Can God do what is evil? Since he is in control of all things, does he then do what is evil which seems to be what people often think of God in statements such as - Why does God allow so much evil to occur in this world? My sense is that question can be further clarified to mean - Why does God allow so much human suffering if He is Love and He is Good? It seems that the world has concluded then that there is no God and also there is no good and evil. Good is only present because we have the contrast between good and evil. If there was no evil, then there would be no good.

I've never really struggled with this issue of good and evil because they must most be present in life. You can't have one without the other. The Bible supports continually the idea that God is good. It also supports that man is a sinner. Sinners are in need of God because sin separates man from God. This is supported by today's passage from James 1 - Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above. 

Now I am always amazed at how the Bible speaks often to present day issues. James 1:16 starts with Do not be deceived. Deception is the crux of the differences that people hold. Most people fall victim to this deceit, believing to be defined by human will rather than seeing that God designed human will and is the first cause. We read the words of God and sometimes they make sense to us, but when they do not we look to other solutions from man and in so doing, if we believe those words, we then can be deceived.

James 1 provides us warnings about the events that occur in life. He starts with trials and reminds us that those trials can be approached with joy because our faith is often tested in those trials. As we have faith through those trials it produces a good in us and every good thing is from above.

Contrary to the sun and the way it moves throughout the earth produces sunlight at times and shadows at others, thus variation and shifting shadow, the Father of lights has no variation or shifting shadow. John 3:19 records This is the judgment, that the Light has come into the world, and men loved the darkness rather than the Light, for their deeds were evil. Darkness is evil. Men gravitate towards what is dark, our selfishness, our pleasing of self. Therefore, God is not evil and evil is not done by God. But our testing, our trials, our sufferings God can still use for good outcomes.

Promise: God only does what is good. He is the author only of good.

Prayer: Lord, forgive me for thinking that you author evil and that evil comes from you. Thank you for reminding me and showing me that you are only the author of good. Yes, evil exists but it is the outcome of man's free will choices to please self. We are sinners and imperfect and sin results from this as does suffering. Keep reminding me that you are good and only good.


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 with March being about the sovereign providence of God and looking at how the Bible reveals His control over all things.

James 1:12-18 - The Goodness of God

James 1:12-18
12 Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him. 13 Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am being tempted by God”; for God cannot be tempted by evil, and He Himself does not tempt anyone. 14 But each one is tempted when he is carried away and enticed by his own lust. 15 Then when lust has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and when sin is accomplished, it brings forth death. 16 Do not be deceived, my beloved brethren. 17 Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow.18 In the exercise of His will He brought us forth by the word of truth, so that we would be a kind of first fruits among His creatures.

Message: The Goodness of God

Time: James is thought to be the brother of Jesus. He did not follow Jesus while he was on the earth, but became a follower and leader of the church at Jerusalem after Jesus' resurrection. It is written about AD 45-48. It is practical application of living a holy life. Faith produces a real change in a person.

What the Lord is Saying:

Our creator is incapable of doing evil. Instead God can only do good. Trials or difficult times are a part of the live that we live on earth. James points out that Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him. So the person who perseveres under a trial is blessed. I've often personally said that trials are times of being mad, sad, and then glad. The calling card though of being human is experiencing trials. Jesus after being baptized immediately experienced trials for 40 days.

In the realm of trials James wants to clarify that God is not tempting us. God is never the agent in moving us away from righteousness.  Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am being tempted by God”; for God cannot be tempted by evil, and He Himself does not tempt anyone. While God doesn't tempt us from righteousness He is a God that carries out His justice. He is good and just. Divine justice serves God's goodness to his creation.

Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above. James is remarking that people were often putting God's goodness to trial.

God is good toward his people, working out all things for the good of His people (Romans 8:28). He manifests goodness in punishing our sins. God still loves what is good but as a judge of evil His believers are judged in Christ. God disciplines us for our own good. He has mercy toward us.

While God is good and he never has anything to do with tempting us, He does discipline us. Discipline may produces a trial in our lives. But, trials that are a result of sin are nothing that God directly does to us.

Promise: Let us proclaim all aspects of God's goodness and call people to repent so that they will receive God's goodness and mercy.

Prayer: Lord, there are a lot of truths here that you are expressing to me. You are a good God and yet you discipline me because you do not want to see your people stray from truth. You don't tempt people an cause them in any way to do evil. Thank you for the trials in my life that are there for you teaching me and thank you for using all things in my life to work together for good. Help me to keep my focus on You at all times and lean on You and trust You. I thank you for mornings for when I am sharp and focused on You.

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 with January being about the doctrine of God.