I Samuel 29 - The Philistines Reject David

I Samuel 29

So David arose early, he and his men, to depart in the morning, to return to the land of the Philistines. And the Philistines went up to Jezreel. (verse 11)

Message: The Philistines Reject David

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: I suppose I thought at the end of I Samuel 26 that David and Saul were simply going to go their separate ways. In I Samuel 27, David meet up with Achish and Achish gives David the place of Ziklag to live with his wives and family. David also clears out the land and people in South Judah to make sure no one reports him to Saul it would seem. Then in I Samuel 28, Saul experiences fear about the Philistines and perhaps he has heard of the union Achish and David also have and he really has nothing. David and Achish are conquering places together now. Saul meanwhile consults spirits, alas receiving confirmation that David will be king. 

David can't be on the side of Achish for long though as at some point there may be an attack towards his own people. Those people are still with Saul. As today's passage begins, the Philistines are in Aphek while the Israelites are in Jezreel (verse 1). Achish and David following further back the Philistines (verse 2). The Philistines notice this and confront Achish with the word that David really can't stay with them based upon his history toward the Philistines (verse 3-5). 

Achish tells David, "...return, and go in peace, that you may not displease the lords of the Philistines. (verse 7)" David left and returned to where he had come from rather than continuing in the fight.   

Though God is not mentioned in this passage, I don't think he has to be necessarily. He is still at work and perhaps all of these detours now have been necessary. 

Summary: David is with Achish following the Philistines, but those leaders recognize this and say this can't be good, so David returns to Ziklag. 

Promise: We can be sure that God is working for our benefit even when He seems absent.

Prayer: God, thank you for being present always in my life. Throughout all of life's circumstances you are there. Good times, bad times, easy times, hard times. You are near and I praise You and thank You. Guide my steps Lord. Direct me in the way you have me go. Give me wisdom. Give me grace. 

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

Joshua 5:13-15 - Joshua Meets the Commander of God's Army

Joshua 5:13-15

13 Now it came about when Joshua was by Jericho, that he lifted up his eyes and looked, and behold, a man was standing opposite him with his sword drawn in his hand, and Joshua went to him and said to him, “Are you for us or for our adversaries?” 14 He said, “No; rather I indeed come now as captain of the host of the Lord.” And Joshua fell on his face to the earth, and bowed down, and said to him, “What has my lord to say to his servant?” 15 The captain of the Lord’s host said to Joshua, “Remove your sandals from your feet, for the place where you are standing is holy.” And Joshua did so.

Message: Joshua Meets the Commander of God's Army

Time: Joshua "Yahweh saves" led Israel, under God's command, to victorious conquest of the Promised Land. The book spans about 25 years, beginning about 1406 BC. The conquest of Canaan, numerous military campaigns and regathering of the nation are major components. 

What the Lord is Saying: In the previous verses, Joshua and company are at Gilgal, on the eastern side of Jericho and it is there they circumcise the males (not previously circumcised) and then celebrate Passover for the 3rd time. And then provision of manna ceases as it is no longer needed. Now picking up verse 13 Joshua continues to be "by Jericho." Not sure if he has progressed any further past Gilgal. He is still by Jericho. I learn that Jericho was a well-defended city, difficult to capture, but a great holding ground for those forces that could attack Joshua and others, so getting past it would be quite an achievement. 

Joshua states that a man is standing opposite him, with a sword drawn and Joshua said, "Are you for us or for our adversaries?” This is not a vision. Joshua sees a man with a sword drawn to show Joshua that he is speaking to him about what is before him. This man knows. 

The man then testifies that he is the captain of the host of the Lord. "I indeed come now as captain of the host of the Lord.” Joshua recognizes the man and falls on his face and bows down. Verse 15, "Remove your sandals from your feet, for the place where you are standing is holy.”

What is this here? This seems to be a visible manifestation of the Eternal Word of God. Exodus 3:2 at the burning of the bush states, "And the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a blazing fire from the midst of a bush." 3:4, "God called to him from the midst of the bush and said, "Moses, Moses!" And in verse 5 says, "remove your sandals from your feet, for the place on which you are standing is holy ground." The same words are spoken here with Joshua as at the burning of the bush. 

In Numbers 22:31, Balaam had his way blocked to the vineyards by a man standing with a sword, "Then the Lord opened the eyes of Balaam, and he saw the angel of the Lord standing in the way with his drawn sword in his hand; and he bowed all the way to the ground." 

In Judges 13:3, "the angel of the Lord appeared to the woman (Samson's mother, wife of Manoah) and said to her, "Behold now, you are barren and have borne no children, but you shall conceive and give birth to a son." 

Isaiah 63:9, "In all their affliction He was afflicted, And the angel of His presence saved them; In His love and in His mercy He redeemed them, And He lifted them and carried them all the days of old." 

Psalm 34:7, "The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear Him, and rescues them."

Malachi 3:1, “Behold, I am going to send My messenger, and he will clear the way before Me. And the Lord, whom you seek, will suddenly come to His temple; and the messenger of the covenant, in whom you delight, behold, He is coming,” says the LORD of hosts."

The angel of the Lord is distinct and yet identified with Jehovah. The eternal word of God and the angel of the Lord (Captain of the Heart) are one and the same. And this figure states his function. Joshua sees himself as a servant to the Lord, and so sees this One as having authority. He is a man that stands outside of the house of Israel or any of the adversaries for he states he is not on either one's side. 

This is an interesting set of verses - important in the life of Joshua as he is receiving confirmation repeatedly of the Lord at work - through circumcision, the Passover, manna removed, and ultimately confirmation that the Lord God is there, with him. He has this protection from God. 

Summary: Joshua encounters a man with a sword and realizes he is Lord and this man's servant, captain of the host of the Lord, who resides on holy ground. 

Promise: God will anchor us always with Him and provide us with the assurance that He is with us as we encounter life's challenges. 

Prayer: Lord, I think of Joshua and this man that you called to lead the people of Israel to the promised land, a land you promised to them. There was a goal that you had for them and their was to be joy in the journey, as you led them and were over them continually. You parted waters and then instructed them to signify this with a sign of circumcision, an inner change and then also the Passover, and finally confirmation that You are there. You were with Joshua and you are with me. You are there with me throughout all of life's challenges, providing me peace and as my guide through those situations. At times, I will walk through life, with only a promise, but at certain times You do reveal yourself to me and I thank you for those times, when you show me. And you show others your power, and the peace found in You. 

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

Joshua 1:1-5 - Joshua Commissioned to Lead Israel

Joshua 1:1-5

1 Now it came about after the death of Moses the servant of the Lord, that the Lord spoke to Joshua the son of Nun, Moses’ servant, saying, 2 “Moses My servant is dead; now therefore arise, cross this Jordan, you and all this people, to the land which I am giving to them, to the sons of Israel. 3 Every place on which the sole of your foot treads, I have given it to you, just as I spoke to Moses. 4 From the wilderness and this Lebanon, even as far as the great river, the river Euphrates, all the land of the Hittites, and as far as the Great Sea toward the setting of the sun will be your territory. 5 No man will be able to stand before you all the days of your life. Just as I have been with Moses, I will be with you; I will not fail you or forsake you.

Message: Joshua Commissioned to Lead Israel

Time: Joshua "Yahweh saves" led Israel, under God's command, to victorious conquest of the Promised Land. The book spans about 25 years, beginning about 1406 BC. The conquest of Canaan, numerous military campaigns and regathering of the nation are major components. 

What the Lord is Saying: Moses dies and the Lord now speaks to Joshua to cross the Jordan, himself and all the sons of Israel to the land God is providing them. God will be with them and will not fail or forsake them. 

God promised Abraham many descendants (Genesis 12:1-3) and the nation of Israel began or took root following God rescuing the children of Israel from slavery. This occurred about 1447 BC. God did promise the people the land of Canaan, but the people had to follow through on that promise and walk forth, going to the land. Unfortunately, they lacked faith that God would overpower the Canaanite forces. Only Caleb the son of Jephunneh and Joshua the son of Nun believed. 

Moses was halted from entering the promised land because of his sin. This is chronicled in Numbers 20:1-13. At this time, the people were camped in Kadesh, the wilderness of Zin and there at the camp they lacked water, thus unable to produce fruit or grain. Moses and Aaron go to the tabernacle and speak to God about this and God tells them to speak to a rock to produce water. Moses responds by using his staff to hit a rock. Water gushes out. But the Lord states he is displeased with Moses and prevents Moses from going any further. It is not clear here what displeased the Lord, but His words are clear that Moses will not go further. 

In Numbers 27 verse 14 the Lord recalls this event in Numbers 20. And after Moses requests God to appoint a man to lead this group, the Lord appoints Joshua, with Moses commissioning him by laying his hands on him. 

Now it is Joshua and the commission or call from God to lead Israel to Canaan has been reinstated. He and the people are camped in the plains of Moab, just northeast of the Dead Sea and east of the city of Jericho on the other side of the Jordan River. 

God gives a gift of land to Canaan. They don't do anything to earn it, but they simply must walk into it and not be afraid, trusting God. In accomplishing the land, they must believe that God will provide it, in his way. 

In looking at this text there is striking language of God's promises. He says, "the land which I am giving to them" so it is clearly a gift. And then he also says that every step we take is a gift from him, "Every place on which the sole of your foot treads, I have given it to you." That is great language and a great promise. Every step we take is a gift from God, granted by God. He gives us a promise, but also establishes our steps to that promise. All we must do is walk in them. And in verse 4 he pinpoints or spells out in even more detail all the places where he will walk with them. God will be with them. He will be their guide. "No man will be able to stand before you all the days of your life." God is with us. And his promise to be with us remains. As recorded in Matthew 28:20, "lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” And here in verse 5 the Lord says, "I will be with you; I will not fail you or forsake you." These are indeed exciting truths. God is with us. He was with Israel and He continues to be with us - from dispensation to dispensation or time period to time period, he remains the same. 

Summary: After Moses' death, the Lord calls Joshua to lead Israel to the land of Canaan, promising to be with them every step of the way. 

Promise: God is with us, every step of the way; always. 

Prayer: O thank you God for your words of comfort, spoken to Joshua over 3,400 years ago and to Matthew 2,000 years ago and because of that I can know the promise that You will be with me as well, every step of my life, guiding me, directing me, taking me to a future glory, resurrected with You in paradise. You are near, always near to me. You are present, always present. Thank you for these stories that are real and continue to speak to people like me. You are the great one. You hold me near. You are the God of all and God of glory and I worship you. 

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

My Utmost for His Highest - May 1st - Insight Not Emotion

I have to lead my life in faith, without seeing Him. - 2 Corinthians 5:7 (Moffatt)

    For a time we are conscious of God's attentions, then, when God begins to use us in His enterprises, we take on a pathetic look and talk of the trials and the difficulties, and all the time God is trying to make us do our duty as obscure people. None of us would be obscure spiritually if we could help it. Can we do our duty when God has shut up heaven? Some of us always want to be illuminated saints with golden haloes and the flush of inspiration, and to have the saints of God dealing with us all the time. A gilt-edged saint is not good, he is abnormal, unfit for daily life, and altogether unlike God. We are here as men and women, not as half-fledged angels, to do the work of the world, and to do it with an infinitely greater power to stand the turmoil we have been born from above.

 
    If we try to re-introduce the rare moments of inspiration, it is a sign that it is not God we want. We are making a fetish of the moments when God did come and speak, and insisting that He must do it again; whereas what God wants us to do is to "walk by faith." How many of us have laid ourselves by, as it were, and said--"I cannot do any more until God appears to me." He never will, and without any inspiration, without any sudden touch of God, we will have to get up,. Then comes the surprise--"Why, He was there all the time, and I never knew it!" Never live for the rare moments, they are surprises. God will give us touches of inspiration when He sees we are not in danger of being led away by them. We must never make our moments of inspiration our standard; our standard is our duty.

- From Oswald Chambers, "My Utmost for His Highest" - Classic Edition

Highlights and Underlines are courtesy of Mom from her print edition.

My thoughts

Right when God wants to use me, I start talking of the trials I am going through and difficulties. Basically, I am saying to Him, it is the wrong time. I must remember that I am here to do His work. That is my purpose. Walk by faith is my creed. I speak to often of wanting God to appear and then I will work, but He wants to work in my life in the obscurity. Be content with the now.   

Jesus Calling: December 31

As this year draws to a close, receive My Peace. This is still your deepest need, and I, your Prince of Peace, long to pour Myself into your neediness. My abundance and your emptiness are a perfect match. I designed you to have no sufficiency of your own. I created you as a jar of clay, set apart for sacred use. I want you to be filled with My very Being, permeated through and through with Peace.
     Thank Me for My peaceful Presence, regardless of your feelings. Whisper My Name in loving tenderness. My Peace, which lives continually in your spirit, will gradually work its way through your entire being. 

Isaiah 9:6
English Standard Version
For to us a child is born,
    to us a son is given;
and the government shall be upon his shoulder,
    and his name shall be called
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,    Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
 
2 Corinthians 4:7
English Standard Version
But we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us.
 
John 14:26-27
English Standard Version
²⁶ But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you. ²⁷ Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.

My Prayer
Jesus, Father, Spirit, thank you for this year and guiding me through it. You are showing me more each day that you are in fact in control of me, my life, my world, this world and I can trust you for it all. There have been many different challenges this year, that you have brought our way. But, through them all, you sustain us and keep us with You. Many challenges remain but thanks for the simple reminder that you are with us, you are near, as we are your treasure.    

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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.

Jesus Calling: December 5

Let My Presence override everything you experience. Like a luminous veil of Light, I hover over you and everything around you. I am training you to stay conscious of Me in each situation you encounter.
     When the patriarch Jacob ran away from his enraged brother, he went to sleep on a stone pillow in a land that seemed desolate. But after dreaming about heaven and angels and promises of My Presence, he awoke and exclaimed, "Surely the Lord is in this place, and I was not aware of it." His discovery was not only for him but for all who seek Me. Whenever you feel distant from Me, say, "Surely the Lord is in this place!" Then, ask Me to give you awareness of My Presence. This is a prayer that I delight to answer.

Psalm 31:20
English Standard Version
In the cover of your presence you hide them
    from the plots of men;
you store them in your shelter
    from the strife of tongues.
 
Genesis 28:11-16
English Standard Version
¹¹ And he came to a certain place and stayed there that night, because the sun had set. Taking one of the stones of the place, he put it under his head and lay down in that place to sleep. ¹² And he dreamed, and behold, there was a ladder set up on the earth, and the top of it reached to heaven. And behold, the angels of God were ascending and descending on it! ¹³ And behold, the Lord stood above it and said, “I am the Lord, the God of Abraham your father and the God of Isaac. The land on which you lie I will give to you and to your offspring. ¹⁴ Your offspring shall be like the dust of the earth, and you shall spread abroad to the west and to the east and to the north and to the south, and in you and your offspring shall all the families of the earth be blessed. ¹⁵ Behold, I am with you and will keep you wherever you go, and will bring you back to this land. For I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you.” ¹⁶ Then Jacob awoke from his sleep and said, “Surely the Lord is in this place, and I did not know it.”


My Prayer
Be in me God. Overwhelm me. You are present with me. Remind me during the day that your Light is there, over me. Your Spirit is near, prompting me and showing me how You are relevant to every situation of my life. There are times I don't think You are near, but you remind me, like you reminded Jacob that You are present. Surely the Lord is in this place. Help me to remember Lord that with you near, the events of my life take on a different meaning and I can rest in your providence, abiding love, and confidence.

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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.

Jesus Calling: December 1

I love you with an everlasting Love, which flows out from the depth of eternity. Before you were born, I knew you. Ponder the awesome mystery of a Love that encompasses you from before birth to beyond the grave.
     Modern man has lost the perspective of eternity. To distract himself from the gaping jaws of death, he engages in ceaseless activity and amusement. The practice of being still in My Presence is almost a lost art, yet it is this very stillness that enables you to experience My eternal Love. You need the certainty of My loving Presence in order to weather the storms of life. During times of severe testing, even the best theology can fail you if it isn't accompanied by experiential knowledge of Me. The ultimate protection against sinking during life's storms is devoting time to develop your friendship with Me. 

Jeremiah 31:3
English Standard Version
    the Lord appeared to him from far away.
I have loved you with an everlasting love;
    therefore I have continued my faithfulness to you.

Lamentations 3:22-26
English Standard Version

²² The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases;
    his mercies never come to an end;
²³ they are new every morning;
    great is your faithfulness.
²⁴ “The Lord is my portion,” says my soul,
    “therefore I will hope in him.”

²⁵ The Lord is good to those who wait for him,
    to the soul who seeks him.
²⁶ It is good that one should wait quietly
    for the salvation of the Lord.

My Prayer

Lord, I need to experience God. I don't want my relationship with You to be one about duty where you are the Teacher, I am the pupil and my life is spent doing assignments with the hopes then of making a good grade so that I can stay in the class. Lord, I want a friendship with You. I want a relationship. I want to be still in your Presence. I want to walk with you in a daily relationship. You are my friend; you are my God. I want to be more into the love you have for me and the care you have for me. Forgive me for the way I structure my life around ceaseless activity and amusement. I read your truths in your word, but sometimes struggle to know what they actually mean because I don't really experience You. I want that to change. Thank you for your steadfast love. Thank you that your mercies never end. Great is your faithfulness. My hope is not in doctors, athletes, my family, but my hope is in you. I will wait for you and seek 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.

Jesus Calling: October 30

I AM with you. I am with you. I am with you. Heaven's bells continually peal with that promise of My Presence. Some people never hear those bells because their minds are earthbound and their hearts are closed to Me. Others hear those bells only once or twice in their lifetimes, in rare moments of seeking Me above all else. My desire is that My "sheep" hear My voice continually, for I am the ever-present Shepherd. 
     Quietness is the classroom where you learn to hear My voice. Beginners need a quiet place in order to still their minds. As you advance in this discipline, you gradually learn to carry the stillness with you wherever you go. When you step back into the mainstream of life, straining to hear those glorious bells: I am with you. I am with you. I am with you. 

Jeremiah 29:12-13
English Standard Version
¹² Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will hear you. ¹³ You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart.


John 10:14, 27-28
English Standard Version 
¹⁴ I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me
²⁷ My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. ²⁸ I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand.

My Prayer
Help me to not get too big for my own britches and continually see that I am but a sheep and I need a shepherd daily to guide me. 

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.

Jesus Calling: September 24

Live first and foremost in my presence. Gradually you will become more aware of Me than of people and places around you. This awareness will not detract from your relationships with others. Instead, it will increase your ability to give love and encouragement to them. My Peace will permeate your words and demeanor. You will be active in the world, yet one step removed from it. You will not be easily shaken, because my enveloping Presence buffers the blow of problems.
    This is the path I have set before you. As you follow it wholeheartedly, you experience abundant Life and Peace.

Psalm 89:15–16
English Standard Version

¹⁵ Blessed are the people who know the festal shout,
    who walk, O Lord, in the light of your face,
¹⁶ who exult in your name all the day
    and in your righteousness are exalted.

 

Psalm 16:8
English Standard Version 

I have set the Lord always before me;
    because he is at my right hand, I shall not be shaken.

2 Peter 1:2
English Standard Version  

May grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord.

Thoughts (2019)
As I read these devotions again and again, the phrase "in my presence" comes up again and again. I've noticed that the Old Testament seems to have more references to this phrase than the new, but it remains a common phrase. It seems to mean a personal encounter with God, yet it was not necessarily a dramatic encounter, but could occur in many different fashions. And I think that is what she is trying to convey that God's presence is with us throughout all of life. For one, followers of Jesus have received the Holy Spirit so God is with us at all times, but still as humans we try to do things our own way and in our own power still, and we need to stay surrendered and trusting in God. And in these verses is that understanding, the results of "blessing" and "not shaken" and "grace and peace multiplied." Thus, I can be confident in this place, and it will make all the difference in my life.

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.

Jesus Calling: May 24

     Bring Me your mind for rest and renewal. Let Me infuse My Presence into your thoughts. As your mind stops racing, your body relaxes and you regain awareness of Me. This awareness is vital to your spiritual well-being; it is your lifeline, spiritually speaking.
     There are actually more than four dimensions in this world where you live. In addition to the three dimensions of space and the one of time, there is the dimension of openness to My Presence. This dimension transcends the others, giving you glimpses of heaven while you still reside on earth. This was part of My original design for mankind. Adam and Eve used to walk with Me in the garden, before their expulsion from the Eden. I want you to walk with Me in the garden of your heart, where I have taken up permanent residence. 

Genesis 3:8
English Standard Version

And they heard the sound of the Lord God walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and the man and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God among the trees of the garden.

Psalm 89:15
English Standard Version

Blessed are the people who know the festal shout,
    who walk, O Lord, in the light of your face,

My Prayer
Lord, help me to come to you for my rest. I often go to the television to relax, but let me come to You. Give me quiet moments with you and allow you to work through me, relaxing me so that I can regain an awareness of You. Like Adam and Even walked with you in the garden, I want my days to be about walking with you. Remind me that I can talk to you wherever....whenever. Keep me alert to what you are doing and help me to continually testify of you in the world in which I live.

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.

Jesus Calling: May 12

     Learn to relate to others through My Love rather than yours. Your human love is ever so limited, full of flaws and manipulation. My loving Presence, which always enfolds you, is available to bless others as well as you. Instead of trying harder to help people through your own paltry supplies, become aware of My unlimited supply, which is accessible to you continually. Let My Love envelop your outreach to other people.
     Many of My precious children have fallen prey to burnout. A better description of their condition might be "drainout." Countless interactions with needy people have drained them, without their conscious awareness. You are among these weary ones, who are like wounded soldiers needing R&R. Take time to rest in the Love-Light of My Presence. I will gradually restore to you the energy that you have lost over the years. Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and you will find rest for your souls.

Exodus 33:14
English Standard Version

And he said, “My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.”

Verse Thoughts - In the original manuscript the phrase with you is not present, so literally this is my presence will go up. Verse 14 is a response to Moses praying in verses 12, Bring up this people. Thus, God is saying He will literally be there, His presence. And this presence means His people have rest, both today and tomorrow and always. 

Matthew 11:28-29 
English Standard Version

²⁸ Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. ²⁹ Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.

Verse Thoughts - The idea here is that God provides a rest that no one else can, but here specifically, the context is the Jewish Christians were feeling a heavy burden from the works and toils that the Pharisees and scribes expected them to do. 

My Prayer -  
Lord, the world naturally places many demands on us. Our jobs, each day our lives, where we live, what we do - there is always something to do. Granted, sin resulted in this toil that sometimes has little dividend. Lord, you give us the promise that you will give us rest. I am reminded of the Sabbath day promise you have given us, which means we can rest and you will take care of our burdens. You are there Lord. Thank you for your presence. Thank you for being near.

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.

Jesus Calling: May 8

     Do not long for the absence of problems in your life. That is an unrealistic goal, since in this world you will have trouble. You have an eternity of problem-free living reserved for you in heaven. Rejoice in that inheritance, which no one can take away from you, but do not seek your heaven on earth.
     Begin each day anticipating problems, asking Me to equip you for whatever difficulties you will encounter. The best equipping is My living Presence, My hand that never lets go of yours. Discuss everything with Me. Take a lighthearted view of trouble, seeing it as a challenge that you and I together can handle. Remember that I am on your side, and I have overcome the world. 

John 16:33
English Standard Version

I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.

Verse Thoughts
From MacArthur Study Bible - The word "peace" reflects the Hebrew "Shalom," which became a greeting to his disciples after the resurrection. This peace secures composure in difficult trouble, dissolves fear, and rules in the hearts of God's people to maintain harmony. From Gray and Adams Bible Commentary - Tribulation is sorrow, trial, and persecution, but "in me" victory is already realized. Jesus will give us strength and aid and will supply the means to completely subdue it. 

In the Pitti Palace, at Florence, there are two pictures which hang side by side. One represents a stormy sea with its wild waves, and black clouds and fierce lightnings flashing across the sky. In the waters a human face is seen, wearing an expression of the utmost agony and despair. The other picture also represents a sea, tossed by as fierce a storm, with as dark clouds; but out of the midst of the waves a rock rises, against which the waters dash in vain. In a cleft of the rock are some tufts of grass and green herbage, with sweet flowers, and amid these a dove is seen sitting on her nest, quiet and undisturbed by the wild fury of the storm. The first picture fitly represents the sorrow of the world when all is helpless and despairing; and the other, the sorrow of the Christian, no less severe, but in which he is kept in perfect peace, because he nestles in the bosom of God's unchanging love.

(S. S. Times.)
 
Isaiah 41:13
English Standard Version

For I, the Lord your God,
    hold your right hand;
it is I who say to you, “Fear not,
    I am the one who helps you.

Verse Thoughts
He holds our right hand against our enemies.  

Philippians 4:13
English Standard Version

I can do all things through him who strengthens me.

Verse Thoughts
From MacArthur Study Bible - The Greek word for strengthen means "to put power in." Because believers are in Christ, he infuses them with his strength to sustain them until they receive some provision. Dr. Raffles - The Christian, is the strength of Christ, can perform any service, make any sacrifice, and endure any suffering for His sake. From Gray and Adams Commentary - The believer is weak in himself. But he is not alone. Allied to Christ he is strong to overcome evil and to do good.

My Prayer
Lord, help me to not be in shock when I experience problems. I too quickly want to quick or change my surroundings so that life will be easier. But, you will hold my right hand. And I can let you carry me. Help me to see the victory I already have with you, in me.

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.

Jesus Calling: April 16

     I am calling you to a life of thankfulness. I want all your moments to be punctuated with thanksgiving. The basis for your gratitude is My sovereignty. I am the Creator and Controller of the universe. Heaven and earth are filled with My glorious Presence. 

     When you criticize or complain, you are acting as if you think you could run the world better than I do. From your limited human perspective, it may look as if I'm mismanaging things. But you don't know what I know or see what I see. If I pulled back the curtain to allow you to view heavenly realms, you would understand much more. However, I have designed you to live by faith, not by sight. I lovingly shield you from knowing the future or seeing into the spirit world. Acknowledge My sovereignty by giving thanks in all circumstances. 

Isaiah 6:3
English Standard Version
And one called to another and said:

“Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts;
the whole earth is full of his glory!”

2 Corinthians 5:7
English Standard Version
for we walk by faith, not by sight.

I Thessalonians 5:18
English Standard Version
give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

My Prayer
Lord, help me to realize that you provide information to me as I need it. I always need to be living by faith. Sometimes I take uncertainty to mean that you are mismanaging things, but you have taken care of my needs thus far and so I can trust you for today and tomorrow. Help me to not get unhappy or stressed when things don't go my way. Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord of Hosts. The whole earth is full of your glory. 


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.

Jesus Calling: April 13

     When I give you no special guidance, stay where you are. Concentrate on doing your everyday tasks in awareness of My Presence with you. The Joy of My Presence will shine on you, as you do everything for Me. Thus you invite Me into every aspect of your life. Through collaborating with Me in all things, you allow My Life to merge with yours. This is the secret not only of joyful living but also of victorious living. I designed you to depend on Me moment by moment, recognizing that apart from Me you can do nothing. 

     Be thankful for quiet days, when nothing special seems to be happening. Instead of being bored by the lack of action, use times of routine to seek My Face. Although this is an invisible transaction, it speaks volumes in spiritual realms. Moreover, you are richly blessed when you walk trustingly with Me through the routines of your day.

Colossians 3:23
English Standard Version
Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.

John 15:5
English Standard Version
I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.

Psalm 105:4
English Standard Version
Seek the Lord and his strength;
    seek his presence continually!

My Prayer
Lord, I admit, there are parts of my life that I don't welcome you into. I'm segmented. I give you time in the mornings, on Sunday, at various Bible Studies, but then often make decisions about entertainment that don't involve you. How often do the movies and shows I watch use your name in vain or promote values that I don't agree with and that violate your Word. Too often, I want to conform to the standards of the society in which I live, and that is the goal of the world I live in, to conform me to its standards. Help me instead to enjoy the quiet days and make different choices and let you entertain me, in Your way. I read this verse 'seek his presence continually' and right now, I can honestly say, that is not by everyday goal. Move me there, Lord. Move me.


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.

Jesus Calling: April 12

     Trusting Me is a moment-by-moment choice. My people have not always understood this truth. After I performed miracles in the wilderness, My chosen children trusted Me intensely--but only temporarily. Soon the grumbling began again, testing My patience to the utmost. 

     Isn't it often the same way with you? You trust Me when things go well, when you see Me working on your behalf. This type of trust flows readily within you, requiring no exertion of your will. When things go wrong, your trust-flow slows down and solidifies. You are forced to choose between trusting Me intentionally or rebelling: resenting My ways with you. This choice constitutes a fork in the road. Stay on the path of Life with Me, enjoying My Presence. Choose to trust Me in all circumstances. 

Exodus 15:22-25
English Standard Version
Then Moses made Israel set out from the Red Sea, and they went into the wilderness of Shur. They went three days in the wilderness and found no water. When they came to Marah, they could not drink the water of Marah because it was bitter; therefore it was named Marah. And the people grumbled against Moses, saying, “What shall we drink?” And he cried to the Lord, and the Lord showed him a log, and he threw it into the water, and the water became sweet. There the Lord made for them a statute and a rule, and there he tested them. 

Psalm 31:14
English Standard Version
But I trust in you, O Lord;
    I say, “You are my God.”

My Prayer
Lord, this is so true of me - that I trust You easily when things are going well, but when they are not, I start to wonder. It's amazing how quickly a simple trial can get my eyes off of you. It is embarrassing. Too often Lord I worship you only because what you have done for me. Help me Lord to worship You because of who You are. Your nature is majestic. People everywhere know that you are there, but I want to help people see who you really are. The world tries to get me conformed to the idea that I can be happy because of having things, but I want to be happy always because I have You. In all the circumstances of life, I want to trust 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.

Jesus Calling: April 11

     This is the day that I have made. Rejoice and be glad in it. Begin the day with open hands of faith, ready to receive all that I am pouring into this brief portion of your life. Be careful not to complain about anything, even the weather, since I am the Author of your circumstances. The way to handle unwanted situations is to thank Me for them. This act of faith frees you from resentment and frees Me to work My ways into the situation, so that good emerges from it. 

     To find Joy in this day, you must live within its boundaries. I knew what I was doing when I divided time into twenty-four-hour segments. I understand human frailty, and I know that you can bear the weight of only one day at a time. Do not worry about tomorrow or get stuck in the past. There is abundant Life in My Presence today. 

Psalm 118:24
English Standard Version
This is the day that the Lord has made;
    let us rejoice and be glad in it.

Philippians 3:13-14
English Standard Version
Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.

My Prayer
Father, I pray my heart would be thankful at all times. May I appreciate all that comes my way and seek to understand how you are using good times and bad times in my life. Forgive me for thinking that if things do not go my way that you are somehow not real or not working in my life.  

Lord, help me and my loved ones to not segment you in our lives, not to just go to you 2 times a week when we show up at church, or at those rare moments we consult your word and direction, but remind us that you are with us every step of the way. You are there when the washer is squeaking or we spill oil all over the driveway (like I did yesterday) or we spend 4 hours getting ready for and driving to soccer, only to have another scoreless game, or when our 15 year old son refuses to come home at his curfew time and I have to go pick him up, or when my wife and I get in a disagreement about the kids -- remind me that you are there and I can thank You for those unwanted circumstances. 

As the sermon mentioned yesterday at church, happiness is found in people and relationships, not in things and possessions, but in what we do with them together. Keep me focused on that idea that you are in control and can carry me through life. Each day will take care of itself. This is the day that the Lord has made, let us rejoice. 

Update 4/11/19
Yes God, You are still there. You are still there when my now 18 year old son is still addicted to smoking marijuana after 3 1/2 years and still struggling just getting through high school. You are there when I was on the floor in discomfort dealing with kidney stones a short time ago. You are there with my wife who is working so hard to help my 18 year old son finish school while also working as an Occupational Therapist in the public schools and struggling each day to get her notes completed on time.

Lord, it remains so easy to listen to the lie coming from the prince of this world who tells us that You are not there and praying and talking to You does no good. But, that's the lie because this is the day that the Lord has made. I thank you always for a new day. Thank you for the love and support of others. We are better together. Let us rejoice and be glad in this day because You God are there...always there. 

Update 4/11/23

Very thankful, but in January my youngest son who is now 22 quit smoking marijuana. His stomach was giving him havoc and he was constantly vomiting so, on his own, he quit smoking. Praise God. We continue to pray that he would get right with God. He is going to school and working. He has great motivation. My wife has retired now from being an Occupational Therapist. I am still working and am 55 now. Appreciate the faithfulness of God always. 

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.

Jesus Calling: March 16

    It is good that you recognize your weakness. That keeps you looking to Me, your Strength. Abundant life is not necessarily health and wealth; it is living in continual dependence on Me. Instead of trying to fit this day into a preconceived mold, relax and be on the lookout for what I am doing. This mind-set will free you to enjoy Me and to find what I have planned for you to do. This is far better than trying to make things go according to your own plan.

    Don't take yourself so seriously. Lighten up and laugh with Me. You have Me on your side, so what are you worried about? I can equip you to do absolutely anything, as long as it is My will. The more difficult your day, the more I yearn to help you. Anxiety wraps you up in yourself, trapping you in your own thoughts. When you look to Me and whisper My Name, you break free and receive My Help. Focus on Me, and you will find Peace in My Presence. 

Philippians 4:13
Amplified Bible
I have strength for all things in Christ Who empowers me [I am ready for anything and equal to anything through Him Who infuses inner strength into me; I am self-sufficient in Christ’s sufficiency].

Proverbs 17:22
English Standard Version
A joyful heart is good medicine,
but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.

My Prayer

Lord, you remind me that it is in my weakness You are strong. Living in the world, I tend to define a great life by being healthy and/or being wealthy, but rather it is being In Christ and living my life depending on You Lord. It is in my weakness Lord that you are more clearly seen. Help me to not think that I should flee from things that make me uncomfortable. Lord, I don't want to live in fear, so impress on Me the victory I have in You. Lord, I can accept any situation and be content in it, not because I am special or have great peace of mind, but because You give me strength. 

Lord, help me to laugh more and not to take each moment so serious. There is joy in you. You tell me not to worry about anything, but rejoice always. Help me to get my focus on You and not on my circumstances. You are a great God and I can find Peace in Your Presence. 

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

Romans 4:16b-17 - The Assurance of Faith

Romans 4:16b-17 - 16b not only to those who are of the Law, but also to those who are of the faith of Abraham, who is the father of us all, 17 (as it is written, “A father of many nations have I made you”) in the presence of Him whom he believed, even God, who gives life to the dead and calls into being that which does not exist.

Message: Faith is for all and Abraham is the father of us all.

Time: The date of the book is probably 60 A.D. written from Corinth on Paul's third missionary journey. The church in Rome seems to be established and Romans does not speak of any one error in the church that he is addressing. The church had a large Jewish element, but also filled with Gentile converts from paganism, both free as well as slaves.

What the Lord is Saying:

The Gospel
A person is not made righteous by doing good works because good works only affirm in a person obedience to a Law or standard and these rules are not intended to save a person. Why? Because no one is perfect. No one is good; no one is righteous (Romans 3). Instead, we are to have faith in Christ, trust in Him and His righteousness. All of our wrong behavior is then imputed on Christ or transferred to Christ and Christ then credits us with righteousness. He takes the good that He is (actually the perfect) and transfers it to the believer. The believer trusts God and does good works. Good works are automatic in the life of the believer. A surrendered heart to God will do good works. 

The Set-Up
Verse 16a tells us that because the Law and circumcision do not save a person, it is faith that makes us right with God. And this faith is in accordance with grace. God has done it all and simply erects faith as the instrument by which the transaction takes place in a person's life. We are saved by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8). And in so doing, the promises of God for his people are guaranteed to His people; His offspring.

Today's Text
And now here I am at today's text. And Paul continues to repeat to drive home his points. In essence he confirms once again that faith is for all people. It is not only to those who are of the Law. It is not only to the Jewish people. But it is also to those who are the faith of Abraham. And what did I see is the faith of our father Abraham? Romans 4:11-12 spoke of this. Abraham is the father of all who believe without being circumcised.

What Paul is saying is monumental. The Jew held to the Law and circumcision. Romans 3:2 told the Jew that they had been entrusted with the Law. But, the Law came 430 years after Abraham had been declared righteous by faith. And so Abraham is even more so the Father of those that are not Jews because Abraham was made righteous before the Law was present.

Romans 4:12 tells me that "yes", Abraham is the father of all those of circumcision. But Abraham is also father of all those of the uncircumcised. I believe this is a very apt and necessary reminder to all people.

Verse 17, "as it is written." Paul wants to be clear that he is not presenting new material. New Testament theology is not new theology, but affirming and clarifying the Old. And what was written is not old news that has no applicability today. It is a permanent record that continues to express truth today.

Genesis 17:5 states that when God changed Abraham's name from Abram, he told him that he would be the father of a multitude of nations (circumcised and uncircumcised). The word "made" is in the perfect to show us that this promise is permanent and still relevant today. In fact, it was a done deal. It is really something that has always been.

"in the sight of Him" or "in the Presence of Him who he believed" -- This is interesting. The focus of these verses is "those." It is those that have faith. Those can be Jews (circumcised) and non-Jews (uncircumcised). And to me what it leads up to in verse 17 is that the faith that they had was in the presence of Him whom he believed; "he believed" tends to be talking of Abraham and "Him" I think is Christ. But, I am not sure. I have looked at a very commentaries but don't understand this little phrase and what it means here. I guess what I wonder is the declaration that God made to Abraham as the father of us all, was that declaration done here in the presence of Christ? Is that what Paul is saying?

Continuing on in verse 17, Paul states that God (1) gives life to the dead and (2) calls into being that which does not exist. According to the commentary I read this speaks of God giving Abraham and Sarah a son, in Isaac, at an old age. My first impression is God gives life to those who are dead in their sin. He gives man eternal life and a fulfilled life. And God calls into being, into life that which does not exist. Both statements have similar ideas.

Promise:God's message does not change and His promises to His people remain for all times.

Jesus Calling: April 9

     YOU ARE MINE FOR ALL TIME; nothing can separate you from My Love.  Since I have invested My very Life in you, be well assured that I will also take care of you.  When your mind goes into neutral and your thoughts flow freely, you tend to feel anxious and alone.  Your focus becomes problem solving.  To get your mind back into gear, just turn toward Me, bringing yourself and your problems into My Presence.

     Many problems vanish instantly in the Light of My Love, because you realize you are never alone.  Other problems may remain, but they become secondary to knowing Me and rejoicing in the relationship I so freely offer you.  Each moment you can choose to practice My Presence or to practice the presence of problems. 

Romans 8:38-39
English Standard Version (ESV)
For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Exodus 33:14
ESV
And he said, “My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.”

My Prayer
Lord, I pray that I can rest in the fact that I will always be Yours and there is nothing I can do to separate myself from You just as their was nothing I could do to make myself worthy before You. Jesus did it all for me and has made me right with You for all eternity. I want to surrender each day to You and not surrender each day to my problems. I need Your strength to do this.


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.

Jesus Calling: March 31

    Taste and see that I am good. The more intimately you experience Me, the more convinced you become of My goodness. I am the Living One who sees you and longs to participate in your life. I am training you to find Me in each moment and to be a channel of My loving Presence. Sometimes My blessings come to you in mysterious ways: through pain and trouble. At such times you can know My goodness only through your trust in Me. Understanding will fail you, but trust will keep you close to Me.

    Thank Me for the gift of My Peace, a gift of such immense proportions that you cannot fathom its depth or breadth. When I appeared to My disciples after the resurrection, it was Peace that I communicated first of all. I knew this was their deepest need: to calm their fears and clear their minds. I also speak Peace to you, for I know your anxious thoughts. Listen to Me! Tune out other voices, so that you can hear Me more clearly. I designed you to dwell in Peace all day, every day. Draw near to Me; receive My Peace. 

Psalm 34:8
English Standard Version (ESV) 
Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good!
Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!

Genesis 16:13-14
Amplified Bible (AMP)
So she called the name of the Lord who spoke to her, You are a God of seeing, for she said, Have I [not] even here [in the wilderness] looked upon Him who sees me [and lived]? Or have I here also seen [the future purposes or designs of] Him who sees me? Therefore the well was called Beer-lahai-roi [A well to the Living One Who sees me]; it is between Kadesh and Bered.

John 20:19
English Standard Version (ESV)
On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, the doors being locked where the disciples were for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said to them, “Peace be with you.”

Colossians 3:15
English Standard Version (ESV) 
And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful.

Thoughts - "Taste and see." "Intimately...experience Me." What does this mean? What does this look like? In my opinion, it is simple. I taste and see him by walking through His word and thinking about how He speaks to me. I taste and see him by listening to the creatures, the birds, the people in my life, the ocean, the trees; his creation sends out its voices and I can taste and see him by listening to what he has created. God is training me "to find Him in each moment." God is relevant in every area of my life or he should be. I should acknowledge him everywhere and if I don't, then maybe something is wrong. Maybe there are times I am not doing something that honors Him.

My prayer
Lord, help me to see you and acknowledge you throughout my day. Thank you for the peace that you give. You have settled me down. I so desire to rest in you and be defined by you instead of the craziness of my life. I surrender to You. Help me to accept what you provide.

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