5 Understandable Words for Today

"...God will set you high..."  Deuteronomy 28:1

This promise to Israel is conditioned upon being careful to keep all His commands. Obedience is the prequel to blessing. Disobedience is as witchcraft in God's eyes (1 Samuel 15:23). We reward our children for good behavior, and in the same way, God rewards us for embracing His way. How does He reward us? Pretty well, I'd say. So much so, that we become the envy of other nations. This is the meaning behind the phrase we inspect today. Why would a nation embracing God's ways become the envy of other nations? Well... check out the benefits:

1. The towns and fields will be blessed. (v.3) There will be peace in the cities and the fields will produce plenty of grass for the livestock.
2. The children and crops will be blessed. (v.4) The children will grow up in an environment of love and happiness. Crops that are planted will be harvested in abundance. Even the offspring of the livestock will be healthy and productive!
3. One's fruitbaskets and breadboards will be blessed. (v.5) These were used in two ways: to give in celebration at special occasions and to demonstrate care to those in a time of crisis. This 'blessing' reflects the abundance available from the work of their hands that can be sold or given away.
4. One will be blessed wherever one's travel leads and whatever one's business pursues. (v.6)
5. When the nation is under attack, God will fight  their enemies. (v.7)
6. Everything will be blessed and there will be plenty to store away. (v.8)

Moses summarized the blessing by giving another promise: "...the Lord will establish you..." (v.9) He provided a vision of what that looks like when he said, 'Then all the nations of the world will see that you are a people claimed by the Lord, and they will stand in awe of you."

If there has ever been another nation that has experienced such blessings from God where other nations are in awe of the blessings, it would be the United States of America. I've known such blessings throughout my life, and pray that another great awakening across this country will occur in the days ahead to bring continued blessing to our land. Please pray with me for such. 

You can jump start that prayer for our country with my book, Freedom's Foundation, which will guide you through forty days of intercession for America. You will discover a biblical precept of freedom each of the forty days. Each precept springs from then inspiration of a simple five word biblical phrase. There are over 60 historical citations that complement the material as well. I know you will enjoy it.

Pray with me that God will set us high, once again, as the envy of other nations.

The purpose of such?  TO BLESS OTHER NATIONS!

John 3:30

steve

5 Understandable Words for Today

"Give generously to the poor..."  Deuteronomy 15:10  NLT

As we continue a look at the information God gave Moses for the nation of Israel, God provides instruction on how we are to manage a portion of our monies or income... in charitable giving. This section of teaching is located in Deuteronomy 14:22 - 15:11.

The first rule for money management the Lord provides is to tithe a tenth of one's income to the Lord. The Hebrew word for it is: מַעֲשֵׂר  (pronounced mah-as-ayr'). It literally means the tenth part. There is another word for offering. The tithe was a testament of the worshiper declaring God's ability to provide. The purpose God gave for the tithe was to teach everyone to fear the Lord - to reverence Him only, recognizing His providential hand to supply all their needs.

God provided a second rule of money management: to bring the tithe of the harvest to the nearest town (the closest synagogue) and give it to the Levites, who in turn would share it with the foreigners, orphans and widows in each town. By remembering the Levites (14:27,29), God promises to bless all the work of their hands (14:29e).

A third rule of financial management is then provided by God: to cancel the debts of everyone who owes money. This is a most interesting practice, which - of course - is seen as either outdated or non-applicable in today's business practice. God's reason for erasing the debts of their fellow citizens was so there would be no poor among you (15:4). God then assures His great blessings to those who follow His ways. In fact, God echoes this sentiment a second time stating: "You will receive this blessing if you are careful to obey all the commands of the Lord your God that I am giving you today."  (15:5) God promises Moses these practices will create a financially strong nation: one that would lend to other nations, and would never have to borrow from another nation. God provides a quick lesson by doing so: the debtor is 'slave' to the lender (see 15:6c). This rule did not apply to the foreigners living among them, as foreigners were to demonstrate fiscal responsibility by paying their debts... to do otherwise would have bankrupted the country. We might learn a wise lesson from this practice.

There are three important phrases God shares to conclude His teaching on one's philanthropic responsibility.:

1. "...do not be hard hearted..." (15:7)  If they see that their neighbors or fellow citizens are struggling financially, they were to proactively lend the resources needed to get them on their feet. It's interesting that this phrase is paired with another descriptor: "tightfisted" . One who is tightfisted has no sensitivity to the financial plight of others. A wise handler of money knows that the status will not change overnight. It will take time. Nevertheless, the resources should be supplied generously to provide whatever they need (to get established). It is quite true that it takes such to build true  community, so each member of the community recognizes the mutual worth within their citizens.
2. "Do not be mean spirited..."  (15:9a)  God knows how humans think and calls each of us out on it. He even provides the circumstantial illustration of refusing to provide a loan close to the year for cancelling debts (15:9b); adding the reminder of God's ever watchful eye for those who are poor or oppressed.
3. "Give generously to the poor..."  (15:10a)  God addresses the heart of the issue: our heart attitude. To give generously to the poor, one must be willing to open up hands, pockets, and pocketbooks to provide for those less fortunate. He does not get into the reasons the poor are poor. He does not accuse them of foolish handling of their monies. He does not offer any 'cause - effect' on why the poor are poor. In fact, God simply states there will always be poor living among us (15:11). Jesus echoed this truth in John 12:8, when He defended Mary's lavish display of love by pouring expensive perfume on His feet. He told those who questioned her actions that there would always be time to address the needs of the poor... and that His time was soon running out.

So, today's five understandable words are those words used when God addresses our heart attitude. It's always about one's heart with God... our actions flow from the heart. Have you allowed the Great Physician to give you a heart checkup lately? Have you had a heart to heart talk with Him today?

Give and to you will be given... (Luke 6:38)

steve 

5 Understandable Words for Today

"...and thou shalt stone them..."  Deuteronomy 13:10 ASV

In this directive, God is defining the punishment to those who make concerted efforts to lead God's people away from Him. We, today, are horrified of the thought of such as we witness the beheading of Christians by ISIS militants and hear of the persecution of Christians around the world. The issue at hand was the worship of other God's... an issue Christians in America may do well to reflect upon. Sunday's used to belong to God's people who gathered to study God's Word and give Him honor and glory through whole hearts united in worship. Does it hold true today? According to the recent movie, "Concussion", Sundays are now 'owned' by the NFL. Others have noted Friday nights are dominated by high school football and nightclubs, while Saturday nights are 'owned' by college football and shopping malls... signs of the times in an entertainment driven society. 

What alternatives are possible for Christians today to embrace the semantic of the directive? The first way to demonstrate one's devotion to God and His ways is to take up one's cross and follow Him. (Read Matthew 16:24) By recognizing how we deify our own selves and dying to our own fleshly lusts, we embrace God's design of the creature worshipping The Creator. (Read Romans 1:18-25)  Taking up one's cross is a statement which declares one's willingness to give one's own life in service of our Lord. As I stated earlier, that very thing is happening in certain parts of the world today. Taking up one's cross also shows to the world that we are a people of peace and sacrifice, not willful destruction. At first blush, it may seem to be contrary to the weight of today's five understandable words. However, the Christ follower takes on the likeness of The Savior when personal sacrifice is required, thereby fulfilling the punishment required for those who despise God's way. So, what are we to do, willingly die at the hands of those who so savagely accommodate such an action? In Romans 8:36, the apostle Paul is saying just that:  "Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or distress or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? As it is written, 'For Your sake we face death all day long, we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.' No, in all these things we are more thatn conquerors through Him Who loved us."  (Romans 8:35-37)

The second alternative we have toward those who seek to lead us away from our followship of His way is by impressing those hearts with the Word and love of God found in Christ. We are then hurling stones of love and compassion... thereby heaping hot stones upon their heads.  (Read Romans 12:1-21, giving special attention at verses 19-21)

The third alternative followers of Christ can employ in fulfilling the essence of the Old Testament directive is by our vote. When leaders of a nation make such bold statements which challenge core precepts of our faith, they can be voted out or kept from entering the public legislative community. Christians must not shrink back from exercising their right to vote, and that vote should be very seriously considered and paired with one's values. The dichotomy which exists in today's political environment is too obvious to miss. The Goliath we face today is of a post-modern liberalism which threatens the very foundations of our country. I write about this in my book, "Freedom's Foundation", providing forty biblical precepts to freedom the Founders were intimately familiar with, and which aided in their development of our founding documents. This Goliath is too big to miss... Christians must aim and fire with the power of their vote.

The efforts we make today will embolden our children to stand and preserve the fundamental right to the practice of religion in America for their generation. In so doing we are "pleasing Him" (v.18). We become those who will not throw the first stone in a punitive way, to show the integrity of Christ's way. (Read John 8:1-7)

Sticks and stones... 

Steve (John 3:30)

5 Understandable Words for Today

“…your God is testing you…”  Deuteronomy 13:3

These words, spoken to Moses on the mountain top, were given to teach the nation Israel how to discern between true and false prophets. It seems we humans are easily ‘schnookered’ into believing someone or something to be genuine or true, when it is actually a fake: a confederate, a charlatan, a counterfeit, etc. It is at that time when one feels ‘bamboozled’ and made to look the fool. It’s a tough morsel to swallow… eating crow is no fun.

Why would God want to test us anyway? He desires for each of us to reflect the righteousness of His Kingdom through our love for His Word and by embracing His Way. It’s oftentimes not the popular way, though it is the more blessed way. He desires for each of us to worship Him alone, not the idols of this world. Some of us are more fanatic about a professional sports team, a professional entertainer, or even our own possessions than we are about ascribing glory and honor to God’s name in worship.

What consumes our greatest attention, energies, time, and resources? What do we boast about most often? The answer to those two questions, if different from the Lord Jesus Christ, may reflect one’s own personal idol… even if the answer is family. (Jesus taught this precept in Luke 14:27, when teaching his disciples to take up a cross and follow Him. 

A sermon I once heard by a Rev. Dale Sealy once described God’s tests as having three characteristics: each test is personal, each test is a pop test, and each test is graded on a pass-fail basis. Tests are opportunities given by God to demonstrate one’s ‘followship’ of His Way or one’s rejection of it, and thus the rejection of His truth for our lives found in His Word.

Every test is personal. God is a personal God: He is not some phantom of one’s imagination; neither is He some impersonal angry being seeking to make life difficult for all. The Bible teaches us that God is love (I John 4:8) and the calling card of those who follow Christ is the character of love. The apostle Paul taught that love was the chief of everything we could ever experience on earth: “…the greatest of these is love.” (I Corinthians 13:13). Just as some of the best love stories in history reflect a test or multiple tests which demonstrate the couple’s enduring love, so God tests each of us out of His love for us.

Every test we face is also a pop test: we never know when it will come upon us. I never liked pop tests in high school or college. I became very anxious at the thought of failing… sometimes because I was keenly aware of being woefully unprepared for the material of the day. Moses demonstrated his own opinions of such when God called to him from the burning bush. (Read the excuses Moses gave to God in Exodus chapters 3 and 4) God provides His Word for us to be prepared for the uncertainty of this life and to direct our hearts to His unchanging love. His pop tests may be reminders for His children to be students of His Word – the guidebook for those lost and who can’t find their way; the love letter for the broken hearted; the book of promises for those who have seen nothing but broken promises.

God’s test’s aren’t graded on a curve. God’s tests are given for each of us to know immediately if we passed or failed. There is no dread of waiting for the test results. There is no confusion for wondering one’s next steps. The Bible is full of examples about those who either passed or failed God’s ‘pass-fail’ tests (which were also personal and pop tests), allowing that one to understand his own weakness or strength in the dynamic of the moment:

• Sampson knew where his strength originated, yet realized he failed God when he awoke in chains with his eyes pierced out.  (Read Judges 13-16 for the entire story)
• Joseph realized at an early age that God had a magnificent plan for his life, yet he was painfully aware of his failure to love and serve his brothers as a youth.  (Read Genesis 37:1 – 44:9 for the entire story)
• David’s confidence grew as he understood his strengths in battle after defeating the lion, the bear, and even the giant – Goliath, only to realize the consequence of his sin at arranging the death of one of his best generals while he slept with the man’s wife.  (Read 2 Samuel 11 – 12 for the entire story)
• The thief at the cross was able to agree with God concerning his sin, and discovered the joy of God’s love when Jesus promised him a quick reunion in paradise.  (Read Luke 23:32-43 for the entire story)

What tests have you experienced lately? Do you recall times of testing in your life which perplexed you or brought you to a time of searching? Remember God’s promise through His Son, Jesus, when He said:

“I will be with you always, even to the end of the age.” Matthew 28:20

It’s been said that two things are certain in life: death and taxes. I would entertain a third certainty: life tests. Each one will be personal, pass-fail, and you will never know when it is coming… but you can be sure you are not immune to one coming your way. I guess that’s why I always loved the Boy Scout motto: “Be prepared”. Being equipped both physically and mentally to face the unexpected is a spiritual precept found in today’s five understandable words: “…your God is testing you…”. The tests become moments to display one’s devotion and affection to God Who loved each of us so much that He sent His only Son to die in our place on a cruel cross – to pay the price of our sin. Jesus passed the test of total compliance to the Father’s will. The phrase immediately following today’s five simple words reveals God’s purpose for these tests: “…to see if you truly love Him with all your heart and soul.” The test goes full circle: it was given to us out of God’s love, so we, in turn, could demonstrate our love to Him.

The tests are important… for there is a reward that follows those who pass God’s tests of love. Paul echoed the words of Isaiah when he described the rewards to the church at Corinth:

“…eye has not seen, nor has ear heard, and neither has entered into the mind of man the things God has prepared for those who love Him.”  (I Corinthians 2:9)

In the gospel of John, chapter 21, Jesus posed a question to Peter three times, “…do you love me?” It could be said that each question was a mini pop-test, though the entire conversation was a test to determine the extent of Peter’s love for the Lord. The question rings true today…

Have you heard Him ask you recently?

steve (John 3:30)

5 Understandable Words for Today

"...remember to include the Levites..."  Deuteronomy 12:12  NLT

These five words were a reminder to a nation that had often rebelled against God's way and had many times forsaken His design for a healthy community. You see, God's design included the welfare of those who would serve the nation through prayers of intercession and presenting the offerings people brought to worship the Lord. What led to this instruction from God?

If you recall, the tribal leaders coerced Aaron into making an idol of a golden calf. Once Aaron had completed the work on the statue, the people declared their allegiance to it and began worshiping it - thus committing idolatry. There was a huge celebration with men and women dancing around the symbol that would give them favor in the eyes of the other nations - showing their neighboring countries that they shared similar religious practices. Just as the party was getting warmed up, Moses showed up after descending Mount Sinai with the first set of tablets on which God had engraved the Ten Commandments... with His own hand.

Once Moses witnessed the disgraceful behavior of the people, he became so angry that he threw the sacred tablets down... smashing them into a rubble of broken laws... literally... just about every one of them was broken by the nation of Israel that moment. (Moses recalled the entire event in Dt. 9:7-29) With the originals being irreparably damaged, God instructed Moses to chisel out two stone tablets similar to the first ones, (Dt. 10:1) as well as a sacred chest to be made of wood. Moses complied by constructing the chest from acacia wood. Moses made the trek back to the top of Mount Sinai where God, once again, engraved the Ten Commandments upon the tablets. Moses placed the tablets in the sacred chest called an Ark.  

The nation broke camp and headed toward Jotbathah, a land with many brooks and streams (10:7). It was at that time the Lord set apart the tribe of Levi to carry the Ark of the Covenant, and act as His ministers, as well as to pronounce blessings in His name. (v.8) The Levites were to understand their inheritance as the Lord, Himself - they had no share of property in the promised land. While the nation traveled and set-up camp at Jotbathah, Moses ascended back to the top of Mount Sinai, where he stayed for forty days and nights. (v.10)

During the next forty days God provided Moses with instruction relevant for us today:

1. Fear God's omnipotent power; this gives Him the right to judge. (v.12 & 11:1)
2. Live to please God: by loving and serving Him with a whole heart. (v.12)
3. Obey His commands... they were given for our good. (v.13 & 11:1)
4. Let God's way change our hearts... do not stubbornly refuse to change. (v.16)
5. God is Who He says He is. (v.17)
6. Show love to foreigners. (v.19)
7. The blessing and the curse from embracing or refusing God's way. (11:16-28)

For a moment, God reminds Moses of the future with another five simple words: "When He gives you rest..." (12:10) The Lord once again commands Moses to remember to worship Him on the appointed day - the day of rest for when God provides rest... which is why the nation was to: "...remember to include the Levites..." (12:12) God repeats the instruction in verse nineteen after describing the practice of sharing the sacrificial meat in a meal with the Levites who prepared the sacrifices.

Across America, the Christian culture of today falls woefully short of this instruction given to Moses. The American church has scorned God's omnipotence by embracing contemporary cultural practices. Serving God has become something only a minister does, and is not seen as a Christian's responsibility. Obeying the Ten Commandments has been reduced to following one's own heart, which we stubbornly refuse to be transformed by God's redeeming grace. Those who attest to following Christ are filled with intentions to harm or mistreat the foreigners living among us. Christians across the country by-in-large disregard any teaching of a blessing or curse - deeming it superstitious. Pastors across the land are dropping out in record numbers due to the harsh treatment given them by parishioners. There doesn't seem to be a heart of compassion for one's pastor, even a heart leading to dine with one's pastor.

Let this blog remind us to remember the Levites, as well as God's way given to bless us personally, which will also bless our families, our neighborhoods, our cities, our counties, our states, our nation, and the world.

I will remember,

steve (John 3:30)

5 Understandable Words for Today

“Doing this will teach you…”  Deuteronomy 14:23e

Before entering the promised land, the Lord instructed Moses on the meaning of the law given to guide the people in holy living. When it came to giving, God instructed the tithes of crops, new wine, olive oil, and the first born males of the flocks and herds be delivered to the designated place of worship. By following this practice, the people would learn to fear the Lord. Fearing God can be described as being in awe of His way, and thus embracing it as one’s own way.

The tithe was an act of worship. It might even be said it was the central act of worship during this era of Israel’s history. There are times when we may experience a dryness in our spirit and consider holding back from worshiping the Lord. One may even discontinue the practice of tithing or giving to God as an act of worship. God’s Word counsels us to reconsider this decision and allow God to work in and through our worship of Him to teach us His way.

This precept of giving is a reflection of God’s gift to us: He did not hold back His only Son (read Romans 8:32), and He supplies all our needs. When we give in worship, we recognize the sacrifice of Jesus’ own life on the cross. We can more closely see the meaning in His prayer: “…not my will but Yours be done…” (Luke 22:42), thus leading us to make a similar sacrifice when we are prone to avoid worship and the act of giving.

God even instructed Moses on ways to accomplish one’s intent to give – even when one has to make the sacrifice of a great distance to do so. (v.’s 24-26) Moses was then reminded to remember the Levites among them, for they would have no allotment of land they would occupy. Every third year, the tithe was to go directly to the Levites, foreign neighbors, orphans, and widows – that they may “…eat and be satisfied.” (v.’s 27-29) By keeping this practice, God promised to bless the work of the Israelites.

And He will do the same for us today… God will bless our work (v.29) and teach us to revere His way through our commitment to tithe and worship Him. Perhaps we might look at the efficiency with which the tithes were budgeted, and the commitment of His people to give. It may create in us a more charitable spirit, as well as yield a more accountable use of God’s blessings to us.

Give and to you will be given…  (Luke 6:38)

steve

5 Understandable Words for Today

"Why do you keep sinning?"  1 Samuel 2:23c NLT

These five words are sure to resonate within the hearts of many in our land today. They were spoken by a father confronting his sons about their grievous behavior in the house of worship. You see, the man was Eli, the same priest that met Elkanah and Hannah in Shiloh (see posts from August 17, 25, and September 2). 

Eli had two sons, Hophni and Phinehas. They are described by Samuel as, "scoundrels who had no respect for the Lord.," neither did they hold in high esteem their responsibilities as priests. (read 2:12-13) The two brothers were complicit in their contemptible handling of the sacrifices brought to Shiloh by worshipers. They also seduced the young women who assisted at the entrance to the worship center (2:14-17, 22).

Upon first inspection, one might be led to think Eli was acting appropriately in confronting his sons with their behavior: "I have been hearing reports from all the people about the wicked things you are doing. Why do you keep sinning? You must stop, my sons! The reports I hear among the Lord's people are not good. If someone sins against another person, God can mediate for the guilty party. But if someone sins against the Lord, who can intercede?" (v.'s 23-25) Unfortunately, the confrontation possessed no consequences. Eli had been enabling his own sons actions for years. In fact, he had quite literally become fat from the sacrifices they misappropriated from the people's gifts which were specifically designated as a burnt sacrifice to God. It was Eli who was confronted next.

A holy man - we aren't given his name - arrived at Shiloh one day and addressed Eli with a message from the Lord. He reminded Eli of the origin for the priestly role and Aaron's designation as the one whom God had chosen to offer sacrifices, burn incense, and wear the priestly garment, and that the assignment was then passed on down the family line. Eli was then charged with the answer to his the very question he had posed to his sons: "So why do you scorn my sacrifices and offerings? Why do you give your sons more honor than you give me - for you have become fat from the best offerings of my people Israel!" (v.29)

The man of God then taught Eli the consequences of his own conduct: "...I will honor those who honor me, and I will despise those who think lightly of me." (v.30) In other words, it seems Eli had been weighed  in the balance, coming up short. Eli was informed that his life and the lives of his sons would soon come to an end. In fact, the branch or family line of Eli would actually become extinct. All the family would die "before their time" (v.31), and the children would all die a violent death.

I shudder to think of God's judgment... it is too great for me to consider... which is why I glory in the cross of Christ and His interceding for me at that moment. (1 John 2:1; Hebrews 8:12; 1 Timothy 2:5; Revelation 12:10) Jesus is the one who intercedes when one has offended God. However, we shouldn't be deceived into thinking our actions have no consequences. Our actions affect others: our actions, our words, our body language, our attention or inattention... they are all filtered through the system of cognitive-emotional filters which elicits a judgement on them all. We are not perfect. We make mistakes... even big blunders. Perhaps we should understand the rightness of one's judgment against us, and provide greater grace to those who offend us?

Isn't it mysterious, though, how Samuel grew up under the corrupt influence at Shiloh without being affected by it? Why was he able to navigate to adulthood without even the slightest hint of influence by Eli's sons? Samuel is the one providing the entire account from his own memory of the years spent in Shiloh. Can you imagine how he must have felt hearing the words of the man of God confronting Eli? Under the leadership of the Holy Spirit, Samuel describes himself as: "...only a boy...", yet, as a boy who served the Lord. Not only had Hannah nurtured the boy physically in his early development, but she had poured her faith in God into his young mind, and continued to encourage her son's faith each year she visited The Tabernacle. The boy Samuel had been imprinted and inspired his own mother's faith. In fact, Samuel then describes himself in a way that would one day describe the Savior of the world:

"Meanwhile, the boy Samuel grew taller and grew in favor with the Lord and with the people." (v.26)

This description is very similar to Luke's description of Jesus in Luke 2:52. As profound as these two are similar, it is obvious that Samuel was indeed a type of Christ to the Jews of his day:

• He walked in righteousness, without any corruption.
• He pointed the people to God's way.
• He confronted evil with God's righteous Word.
• He was recognized by the people as an authentic prophet whose words were reliable.

Perhaps Eli's words, "Why do you keep sinning?" reached Samuel's ears at just the right time in his development, especially since Samuel witnessed the holy man's words, as well as the consequences described by the man of God to Eli. They are words for us to seriously consider today. Is there a besetting sin which grips your life, imprisoning your mind? Is there any way you may shrug off one's commission of being Jesus to the world? Have you allowed your spiritual disciplines to become lax?

God is the God of second chances. He is full of mercy. His kindness is ever pursuing each of us. Turn to Him and forsake the sin that enslaves you, and become a prisoner of hope - a slave surrendered to Christ's Kingdom and His ways.

John 3:30

steve

5 Understandable Words for Today

"...the people have not returned..." Isaiah 9:13

This weekend I, like so many, will remember with sadness the events of September 11, 2001. I was living in Scottsdale, Arizona at the time. Every Tuesday morning my friend, Brett Schomaker, and I would meet at Coco's Restaurant at Paradise Valley Mall for Bible study and prayer. I happened to arrive early and took my seat at a booth in the back of the restaurant. As I was reviewing my thoughts from my quiet time during the week, Brett arrived with the news that a plane had flown into one of the world trade centers. I reacted with doubt, describing how a small twin engine war-plane had hit the empire state building in 1945, without any major damage to the building. Brett's reply alarmed me as he described a passenger jet, filled with jet fuel, passengers and crew,  crashing into one of the World Trade Centers in New York City.

It wasn't a moment later when a collective gasp was heard coming from the breakfast bar area. I excused myself and made a B-line to the activity. A television was mounted on the wall. I asked some of the patrons what had just happened and was told a second jetliner had struck the second tower. I couldn't believe what my eyes were seeing as the news replayed the two events and the newscasters reported a national emergency and of a nation under attack.

In 2012, a Jewish rabbi published what became a best selling book, "The Harbinger". Jonathan Cahn, a Messianic Jew, intimated the attack was described in Biblical prophesy and was actually a divine warning to our nation. The book was actually the fruition of Cahn's own biblical research which he had been sharing as early as 2006. He describes how certain leader's speeches after the horrible event were omens against the United States; showing how their words were filled with pride and arrogance, not humility and mourning.

The scripture Rabbi Cahn specifically denotes is found in Isaiah 9, and I have included it in this week's blog:

"The Lord has sent a message against Jacob;    it will fall on Israel. All the people will know it—
Ephraim and the inhabitants of Samaria—who say with pride and arrogance of heart, 'The bricks have fallen down, but we will rebuild with dressed stone; the fig trees have been felled,
but we will replace them with cedars.' But the Lord has strengthened Rezin’s foes against them
and has spurred their enemies on. Arameans from the east and Philistines from the west   have devoured Israel with open mouth. Yet for all this, His anger is not turned away, His hand is still upraised. But the people have not returned to Him who struck them,  nor have they sought the Lord Almighty." (Isaiah 9:8-13)

Surprisingly, this passage follows one of the most well know and quoted passages in all of scripture: "For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on His shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of His government and peace there will be no end." (Isaiah 9:6-7a)

It seemed at first that a national revival was about to happen as the churches were filled to capacity the first few weeks following the tragedy. However, the revival never came; our nation never humbled herself and sought God's face with earnestness and a broken heart. Whatever you feel about Rabbi Cahn's book, the point I am simply making is the dire need of our nation for revival. I hope you are praying for such. My book, "Freedom's Foundation", may provide you some initial assistance as it takes the reader through forty days of prayer for our nation, revealing a biblical precept for freedom for each day. There are other prayer aids available that guide prayer warriors. Here is a link from one church that is pursuing one hundred days of prayer for America: 

http://files.caryfbc.org/documents/events/100%20Days%20of%20Corporate%20Prayer.pdf

There are others available through a simple Google search. Of course, I hope there will be a national revival, a great awakening in our time, when many hearts will be turned to God, which will result in a wave of renewed integrity, excellence, and compassion across all sectors of our national culture.

O that our country would return to the Lord.

Lord, have mercy... and move among us... begin with me...

steve (John 3:30)

5 Understandable Words for Today

"...they worshiped the Lord there."  1 Samuel 1:28

As we continue in our observation of Hannah's life, we enter into an episode several years after her pregnancy:

"When the child was weaned Hannah took him to the Tabernacle in Shiloh. They brought along a three-year-old bull for the sacrifice and a basket of flour and some wine. After sacrificing the bull, they brought the boy to Eli. 'Sir, do you remember me?' Hannah asked. 'I am the woman who stood here several years ago praying to the Lord. I asked the Lord to give me this boy, and He has granted my request. Now, I am giving him to the Lord, and he will belong to the Lord his whole life.' And they worshiped the Lord there." (1 Sa. 1:24-28)

The dedication of Samuel to the Lord's service is begun and ended in moments of worship. Hannah had weaned the child and was ready to carry out her promise to God: to give him back. (see the Words for Today July 26th entry) The first act of worship is found in their sacrifice of a young bull. The sacrifice was given to God in keeping with Levitical law, as well as a symbol of atoning for sin. Many years later, the psalmist would write:

"Who may ascend the mountain of the Lord? Who may stand in His holy place? The one who has clean hands and a pure heart, who does not trust in an idol or swear by a false god."  (Ps. 24:3)

The blood of the bull pointed to the final sacrifice of God's only Son on the cross of Calvary, and was God's requirement to atone for sin. Hannah and Elkanah wanted the gift of their son to be a pure offering to God, and to do so, they fulfilled God's requirement for their own purity before approaching God with their gift.  (read Leviticus 1:5; 3:8-12; 4:4-15 for further insight into the Levitical requirement)

The second act of worship reflected Hannah's joy and fulfillment through God's rich mercy and favor. Her prayer of praise is recorded in the next chapter (2:1-11). It was not a time of sorrow for her, as her heart was prepared to surrender her desires to God's eternal purposes. She kept her promise to God just as God had been faithful to provide her a son. Today's five understand-able words is the proof of such surrender: "...they worshiped the Lord there." (v.28) Her prayer echos with her confidence in God's sovereignty and her gratitude to Him for how God had opened her womb to bear a child (giving her confidence to bear other children). She affirms her confidence in His unchanging character by describing Him as the Rock. She revealed the hurtful actions of Peninnah, in her prayerful chant, "...He will judge your actions." Hannah even prophesies with her words, "He sets them among princes...", revealing Samuel's own influence for Israel in the years to come (Samuel anointed both Saul and David as King). 

There is another prayer of praise given to God by an expectant mother whose name was Mary. The young virgin praised God for His providence and the mysteries of His love, acknowledging God's control over our lives. (read Luke 1:46-55) She became pregnant as a virgin when the Holy Spirit created life within her womb, "and that life was the light of men." (John 1:4)

By giving Samuel back to God Hannah was dedicating her son to a lifetime of service for God. This in no way belittled her love for her son, neither did she just drop him off and forget him. In fact Hannah visited Samuel regularly, and each year, as her son grew, she brought him a priestly robe - just like Eli's! (1 Sa. 2:19) As an adult, Samuel resided in Ramah (his parent's hometown, see 1 Sa. 7:17; and 1:19-20).

We can be encouraged through the life of Hannah. She had such confidence in God to write the story of her life... and God rewarded her for her faith. In fact, Hannah had three sons and two daughters (1 Sa. 2:21). In the story of her life, we can be assured that God is in control. He will write the story of our lives as we surrender our will, our fears, our failures, our doubts, and our hurts to Him. He will work out His purpose for each of our lives to bring His name glory. 

I've got to surrender each day...

steve (Jn. 3:30)

5 Understandable Words for Today

"Whatever you think is best..."  I Samuel 1:23

Herein are five simple words which may be of great import in the conversations within marriages today... especially by husbands. You may remember the continuation of Hannah's story in this blog two weeks ago, when polygamy was exposed as both dysfunctional and outside of God's plan for marriage. However, I did show that, even in the corrupt systems of man (polygamy), God can choose to work on behalf of those whose hearts are strong for Him. Such was true in the life of Hannah.

After the memorable trip to the Tabernacle at Shiloh, when Hannah received a blessing from Eli, the priest, she became pregnant when "...the Lord remembered her plea..." (v.19).  The following year, Elkanah and his family were gearing up to take the annual trip to the Tabernacle. However, Hannah took leave from the trip. It seemed a boy had been born to Hannah, and she protected him from the rigors of the journey, stating she would take him after he had been weaned - and not only take him, but leave him there to grow up at Shiloh, serving the Lord. Elkanah agreed, speaking today's five understandable words:

"Whatever you think is best... stay here for now, and may the Lord help you keep your promise."  (v.23)

I heard a joke once that went something like this: My wife and I don't argue very often, but when we do, I ALWAYS have the final word: YES DEAR. Now, this is not to say that wives are never wrong. However, I've often seen how God has gifted godly women with discernment, wisdom and grace to offer sound guidance in life issues... and I, for one, am thankful for my godly wife - whose love for me is a wonderful example of God's redeeming, reconciling love.

There is another short phrase that we should not ignore, though. Elkanah also encouraged his wife's heart by directing her back to the Lord's strength to provide the courage and fortitude to carryout her decision of gifting her son to the Lord for service in the Tabernacle. He knew all too well the attachment between mother and child, and I'm sure he remembered how she had struggled for this child in prayer. It would not be an easy act to deliver him to Eli as a young boy.

She kept her promise to give Samuel back. As we reflect on this extravagant personal sacrifice we see God's love reflected in Hannah's offering of her only son to the Lord... a picture of God's love for us... offering His only Son as a sacrifice for our sin. It is difficult to even fathom such a sacrifice by Hannah... giving up one's own child. As we see how she kept her promise to give him back, I am prone to wonder what we might be holding back from God.

Are there personal treasures we could offer on the altar of sacrifice toward advancing His Kingdom? Are we holding back our time? Our talents? Our skills? And, in a different way, are we holding back from giving Him our troubles, our grievous sins that enslave us, or our unforgiveness toward others?

Not holding back, not looking back, not taking back...

John 3:30

steve

5 Understandable Words for Today

"The Lord has honored me..."  Isaiah 49:5d

It seems the Olympics have been covered live 24/7 this past week... and there is still plenty of action to go! I love watching the athletes beam with national pride when receiving their medals, recognizing their achievement as the best in the world. As I've listened to many of those competing in the games, the following phrase has often been used: "It's just an honor to be here and represent my country." I'm sure it is, and what a joy it is to see the excellence they demonstrate in their respective sport.

As a follower of Christ, each disciple is honored with an assignment. It is a race to be sure - a race against time, as we seek to expose the world to God's redemptive love and mercy. Isaiah speaks of it in today's five understandable words. They are found in an interesting section of the prophet's inspired writing:

1. He calls for attention to his message. (49:1)
2. He declares his qualification as being called before birth. (v.1)
3. He recognizes the power of his words as being a sharp arrow in God's quiver. (v2)
4. He echoes God's message to the nation of Israel. (v.3)

Isaiah cries out for attention to a message given to him by God. He specifically addresses those in distant lands - those who are "far away" (v.1). People oftentimes think the Bible has no relevance for those in the world today. Nothing could be further from the truth. This message from Isaiah is directed to us: "people of a distant land". Then he echoes the sentiment with the phrase, "you who are far away". It seems to ring with a spirit of reconciliation. God wants those whose hearts are far away from Him to draw near to Him, and He will reciprocate the action (read James 4:8).

There was no educational pedigree cited as his qualifying authority. Instead, the prophet simply states that God had called him from before his birth. It's hard to get my mind around that phrase. It seems to  say that not only does God number our days (read Job 14:5; Psalm 139:16), but it gives credence that God is more involved in our life's direction than we may think - especially if one is called by God to deliver His Word of life. Isaiah leaves no doubt that he had been commissioned by God in verse three, describing God's call on his life: "You are my servant, Israel, and you will bring me glory." It seems that one person may be called to represent a nation to God, so God might represent Himself to that nation through that one person. What greater honor could there be for a person? Thus the significance of today's five understandable words: "The Lord has honored me." (v.5) Perhaps, though, the real calling is to the nation Israel... just as it may be to us today: to bring God glory through our lives and our worship.

As God's messenger, Isaiah did not shrink from his calling, acknowledging God's power to anoint the message he was to carry. It appeared, though, that Isaiah was very human: at one moment he declares himself as a sharp arrow in God's quiver (v.2), only to shrink back in doubt stating his work as being useless.  I can relate... verse four echoes loudly in my heart: "But my work seems so useless! I have spent my strength for nothing and to no purpose." Have you ever felt that way? Maybe I'm the only one. However, after Isaiah's brief 'pity-party', he states he will leave the results to God - trusting in His reward. God strengthens Isaiah by reminding him of the calling he received while still in the womb of his mother (see v.5).

Isaiah then provides the full scope of the message: he was to restore the people of Israel and to be a light to the Gentiles - bringing God's salvation to the end of the earth. That's the big picture, folks... it embodies Jesus' Great Commission to the disciples and to us today: we are to be intentional in the message each of us carries, for it will echo to the nations by those arriving on our shores and who live within our borders. 

The honor is to represent our Lord, just as the Olympic athletes represent their respective countries. The prize is greater than gold! It's eternal. It can never be taken away. It will be given to each personally, so run this race of life to win others to the eternal prize.

"Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever."  (1 Co. 9:24-25)

Honorably yours,

steve (John 3:30)

5 Understandable Words for Today

"...the Lord remembered her plea..."  1 Samuel 1:19e

You may remember the blog from two weeks ago: Hannah prayed for a child, vowing to give him back to the Lord for a lifetime of service in The Tabernacle. The priest, Eli, thought her stressful behavior was drunkenness and demanded she throw away her wine, only for Hannah to explain her sincere anguish and heart-cry to God for a child. (1:12-16) Eli sought to provide Hannah encouragement with these words: "May the God of Israel grant the request you have asked of Him."  (v.17b) Those words revived her spirit and she was no longer sad. (v.18)

What dynamics could have added to Hannah's anguish? Polygamy is a marriage system which fosters many dysfunctional ideas in the mind's of the children from such relationships, as well as between the wives within the marriage. Elkanah's marriages provides an excellent case-study of such damaging practices:

1. Elkanah showed favoritism toward Hannah by giving her a choice portion of the sacrificial meal, which may have futher agitated Peninnah's treatment of Hannah. (v.5)
2. Elkanah did not intervene to protect Hannah from Peninnah's ridiculing taunts of Hannah's inability to concieve. (v.6)
3. Elkanah allowed the situation to continue for years, to the point that Hannah became completely exasperated at the situation. (v.7)
4. Elkanah did not seek to understand Hannah's despondence, even turning the issue to being all about himself and not Hannah. (v.8)

Though polygamy was part of the culture of their day, it did not make it right. From the very beginning God established the home as the union of one man and one woman (read Genesis 2:18-24). God's design describes the woman in this way: "I will make a helper who is just right for him." She was to complete and complement the man. She would help the man understand how God sees him by her redeeming love for him. She would be JUST RIGHT for him: she would be uniquely suited for his emotional, psychological, mental, spiritual, and sexual makeup.

After studying this passage again, I am brought to a higher appreciation for my wife, Sandra. I also have been brought to a deeper love for her because of the unique way God designed her to understand, unconditionally love, and cohabit with me... we have shared thirty-six years of marriage on the twenty-third of this month.

Though the marriage situation was not in keeping with God's design, Hannah loved her husband and in the due time she became pregnant. This time is described as follows:

"The entire family got up early the next morning and went to worship the Lord once more. Then they returned home to Ramah. When Elkanah slept with Hannah, the Lord remembered her plea, and in due time she gave birth to a son. She named him Samuel, for she said, 'I asked the Lord for him.'"   

God was faithful to hear Hannah's prayer... even within a corrupt marriage system. He will hear our prayers, too... even though we are corrupt and morally bankrupt. He looks to the heart, and tests one's sincerity and transparency. He will remember your plea... your prayers do not fall on deaf ears. Trust God to work through His time, His economy, His wisdom, and His kindness.

John 3:30

steve 

5 Understandable Words for Today

"I will go to him..." 2 Samuel 12:23

Dedicated to Darren and Becky Frame

My wife and I took a week to visit our daughter in Phoenix. She has recently become engaged and there was an engagement party we attended at her 'to-be' in-laws house. Close friends of our daughter and her fiance, as well as friends to her fiance's parents were invited. A day or two before the event, the family experienced a tragedy: their younger son, Jared, had been in a recent mountain biking accident which seemed to be the catalyst for a cascading sequence of events which led to his death just yesterday. Needless to say, his family must be devastated. Sandra and I are heart-broken for them. Our daughter has spent many hours with the family through this crisis, and I'm sure she has seen the reality of their hurt and loss.

Losing a child to death has to be the hardest earthly experience a parent can know. My own parents experienced the loss of their next to youngest daughter (I grew up with six sisters). I'll never forget their anguish over her death, even though it was a blessing in so many ways - she had been incapacitated from the effects of a radical new treatment for brain cancer. Though she lived an extra ten years, she was completely paralyzed from the cheeks down the last two years of her life. Other than experiencing the death of a spouse, I can't fathom a more significant loss to one's heart.

King David and Bathsheba experienced such a loss with their first child. Though conceived out of wedlock, the child was evidently healthy. It became ill and David spent countless hours in prayer for the child - even going without food and laying all night on the bare ground. (23:15-16) The child died on the seventh day of the illness, after which "...David got up from the ground, washed himself, put on lotions, and changed his clothes. He went to the Tabernacle and worshiped the Lord. After that, he returned to the palace and was served food and ate." (v. 20)

His advisers observed how David had refused food during his entreaties to God and questioned his thinking on his behavior after the child died. David's response reflects a world view which affirms life after death, and the hope of eternity:

"I fasted and wept while the child was alive, for I said, 'Perhaps the Lord will be gracious to me and let the child live.' But why should I fast when he is dead? Can I bring him back again? I will go to him one day, but he cannot return to me."  (v.'s 22-23)

"I will go to him..." is an affirmation of faith in agreeing with God's good purposes, though we may not understand them at the time. Jared's parents are fellow Believers, who have exercised their parental assignment of bringing their children up in the Lord's Way - teaching them to pray, loving them, disciplining them, and providing for their needs... all in an effort to point them to Jesus, our Savior.

Jared has experienced eternal healing, as those who profess Christ will experience one day. Yes, Darren and Becky, you will see your son again. Andrew, you will see your brother again. Family and friends, you can be assured of this promise when you have placed your faith in Christ. God's Word assures the blessing of comfort to those who mourn (Mt. 5:4), and gives us further encouragement in such times:

"Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will uphold you with My righteous right Hand. For I, The Lord your God, hold your right hand; it is I Who says to you, fear not, I am the One Who help you." Is. 41:10&13

"Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope. For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him. According to the Lord’s word, we tell you that we who are still alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever. Therefore encourage one another with these words."  1 Th. 4:13-18  NIV

"Trust in the Lord at all times you people, pour your heart out to Him, God is a refuge for us." Ps. 62:8

"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, Who comforts us in all our troubles..."  2 Co. 1:3-4

"He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning, or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away."  Re. 21:4

"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit."  Ps. 34:18

" Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord, Jesus Christ! In His great mercy He has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you, who through faith are shielded by God's power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time. In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith - of greater worth than gold, which perishes, even though refined by fire - may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. Though you have not seen Him, you love Him; and even though you do not see Him now, you believe in Him and are filled with an expressible and glorious joy, for you are receiving the end result of your faith, the salvation of your souls."  1 Pt. 1:3-9

"Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God, believe also in me. My Father's house has many rooms... I will come back and take you to be with me, that you also may be where I am."  Jn. 14:1-4

"...the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed. For the perishable must clothe itself with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality. When the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come true: 'Death has been swallowed up in victory. Where, O death, is your victory?
 Where, O death, is your sting?' The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ."  1 Co. 15:52-57

"Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His faithful servants."  Ps. 116:15

We may have difficulty in seeing death as precious. However, in God's economy, He values our eternal souls so highly, that our entry into heaven is a glorious celebration.

O the wonders we will behold!

steve

Jn. 3:30

5 Understandable Words for Today

"I will give him back..."  1 Samuel 1:11 (NLT)

In this simple phrase is found the heart of a mother with such a profound gratitude, she was willing to not only recognize the Giver of all good things, but to acknowledge her child as God's to use as He saw fit. Let's look at this story a bit deeper.

Hannah was married to a seemingly devout man, Elkanah, who lived in the hill country of Ephraim (just north of Jerusalem). (v.'s 1:1-2) He followed a common practice of polygamy (which, by the way, does not make it right), and Hannah was one of two wives. The other wife was named Peninnah.

Each year, Elkanah would travel to Shiloh to worship (probably at the Passover). At the point of sacrifice, portions of the meat went to Peninnah and her children, then Elkanah would ensure one choice portion went to Hannah. Penninnah would taunt and humiliate Hannah's infertility, reducing Hannah to tears. (v.'s 3-8)

One year, Hannah got up from the sacrificial meal to pray. She was in such deep anguish and distress that Eli, the priest stationed at the entrance to the Tabernacle, accused her of being drunk, even stipulating she discard any wine she may have on her. Hannah assured Eli she was in no way defiling the Lord's sacred area by such dissipation, and conveyed her deep heartbreak over her infertility. Eli encouraged her with words affirming his agreement with her prayer request that God would grant her a child. Eli's encouragement lifted her spirits and she was no longer sad, returning to the sacrificial meal. (v.'s 9-18)

It was during her tortuous prayer to the Lord when Hannah stated this covenant to God: "...if You will look upon my sorrow and answer my prayer and give me a son, then I will bring him back to You." As an act of gratitude, she promised to return her first born son to the tabernacle to live his entire life and to live for God's purposes as He saw fit. Her promise would be displayed by never cutting the child's hair.

Parents of children, have you given your children into God's hands? Have you placed your children's futures into the hands of a kind benevolent Father? Have you exercised your faith in God in such a way as Hannah? Now, please understand, I'm not necessarily encouraging you to not cut your children's hair... Instead, let her example motivate all parents to trust God with our children's lives as we pray for their futures.

God bless our children with wisdom and favor.

steve

5 Understandable Words for Today

"...be careful to obey them..." Deuteronomy 26: 16b

There is an eternal promise guaranteed from heaven's throne for those who keep God's way. In my book, "Freedom's Foundation", I outline the Decalogue and a benefit from following each command:

• God is the one true God – no other gods = no confusion.

• God will not share His glory to a man-made idol - ditto.

• God wants us to respect His name – teaches respect.

• God designed a Sabbath rest for man to rest – we all need it.

• God promises a longer life when we honor our parents.

• God prohibits the taking of human life – establishing the sanctity of life.

• God prohibits adultery – protecting individuals, marriages, and families.

• God prohibits stealing – ensuring integrity in business and security of one’s belongings.

• God prohibits making false statements against others – preserving personal reputations.

• God wants us to be content with our life – things work better.     

(Exodus 20)

The Ten Commandments point to the coming King, the Promised One, Who was prophesied as early as the creation account (read Genesis 3:15). Jesus answered the queries of the Pharisees by recognizing the first commandment when He described the greatest commandment (read Luke 10:25-28).

In pointing to the first commandment, Jesus guarded the integrity of where God's name rests (in Jerusalem, read Deuteronomy 12:11) when He cleansed the temple (read Matthew 21:13). When we pray, we pray to God, without the distraction of money or manmade rules. The money changers sold animals to be presented for sacrifice as a redemption for the sins of those who purchased them. Jesus detested the practice to show God's disdain for their erroneous thinking: that there is an action we can do to absolve our own sin before God. They did not raise the animal. It was a sacrifice of convenience... devised to circumvent God's original intent. It became a form of idolatry as the money changers profited on the guilt of unsuspecting souls. (read Colossians 3:5)

Jesus pointed to the second commandment through His teaching: "Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father." (John 14:9) He was referring to the persistent need of seekers to worship what they see. In fact, he confronted such thought when he refuted the Samaritan woman's statement (read John 4:21-24), declaring God was spirit and those who worship Him do so in the spirit and in truth.

Jesus pointed to the third commandment when He used the well known description of God's name as a description of Himself. Seven times He referred to "I am..." (seven is significant number in the Hebrew language, signifying completion; read John 6:35; 8:12; 10:9, 11; 11:25; 14:6; 15:1). He also modeled reverence for God's name as He taught the disciples to pray, "...hallowed be Thy name..." (read Matthew 6:9).

In describing the function of the fourth commandment, the Savior pointed to the Sabbath rest for man when He described that the Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath (read Mark 2:27).

Jesus pointed to the fifth commandment of honoring one's parents when He honored His mother by arranging for her care after His death on the cross (read John 19:26-27).

The Savior pointed to the sixth commandment by His actions on the Mount of Olives when He intervened on the soldier's behalf, even immediately healing his ear which a disciple had cut off. Jesus took steps to prevent any lives being taken from any action by His disciples (read Matthew 26:51-52).

Jesus exposed the lie of adultery, the prohibition of the seventh commandment, when He offered forgiveness to the woman at the well, exposing her adulterous ways while offering her forgiveness and peace (read John 4:1-26).

The Messiah revealed the corruption of the heart found in the eighth commandment when He offered forgiveness and peace to the thief on the cross (read Mark 15:28; Luke 23:39-43).

Jesus' life pointed to the ninth commandment when He answered the inquiry by John the Baptist. Jesus confirmed to John the Baptist that He was, indeed, the Messiah when He intimated the words of Isaiah 35:5-6 (read Matthew 11:2-5). 

Finally, Jesus provided clarity of the tenth commandment in the sermon on the mount. He taught that each day would take care of itself when we are seeking God's Kingdom first (read Matthew 6:25-34).

Be careful to obey all of God's commandments. Jesus said, "...if you love me, you will keep my commandments." (John 14:15; also see John 15:10) His commandment are given to bless a life, a family, a community, and a nation. The writer of todays 5UW goes on to write:

"You have declared today that the Lord is your God. And you have promised to walk in His ways, and to do everything He tells you. The Lord has declared today that you are His people, His own special treasure, just as He promised, and that you must obey all His commands. And if you do, He will set you high above all the other nations He has made. Then you will receive praise, honor, and renown. You will be a nation that is holy to the Lord your God, just as He promised." (Deuteronomy 26:17-19)

Did you notice the five simple words, "...He will set you high..." (v.19)? When we follow God's way, God designed the natural result as having a higher perspective (more wisdom), a higher standard (seeking excellence in our work), and a higher regard for others (treating others the way we would like them to treat us).

Let's be careful to obey them,

steve

5 Understandable Words for Today

"...let us love one another..."  I John 4:7

In light of the recent events in our country, I feel compelled to share these five words to encourage you to be intentional in communicating love to your family, friends, neighbors, work associates, and those whom God may bring to intersect with your life's path - especially those who are different than you. It seems our world has lost the understanding and application of love.

The apostle John addressed the audience of his writing as "beloved".  He cared deeply for those who would receive this letter, and wanted them to embrace the ideal of love's purpose. He went on to define love:  "...for love is of God, and everyone that loves is born of God and knows God." (4:7)  All true love, all real love, and all efforts to express authentic love are conduits of God's own expression of Himself... thus love is from God Himself.  The writer goes on to delineate the conduit for love's expression as being from those who have been born of God: the same type of experience Jesus spoke of on the evening of Nicodemus' visit. (read John 3:3-7) Only those whose hearts have been ignited by the Holy Spirit's affirmation of Jesus Christ as the Messiah raised from the dead have the actual resource to love genuinely, authentically, and with the same intentional exhibition of love given by Christ on the cross.

Those who are available as the free expression of God's love to others have invested personally in developing a relationship with God. People who love are people who have accepted the love of God through a very private interaction between spirits during time invested in God's eternal Word... this is how one comes to know God. Knowing God is a natural result of time spent in dialogue with the Healer of the heart, the Redeemer of the soul, and the Rescuer to the hopeless. The conversation is ongoing, 'interactional', private and personal. However private the interaction may have been though, God always instructed His followers to NOT keep it that way... He wanted others to know of His availability by simply calling out His name.

John continued the discourse on love by stating that anyone who does not love does not know God. (read verse 8) Anyone who acts unbecoming, unloving, overly critical, prejudicial, spiteful, hateful, etc., is simply providing evidence of a lack of any relationship with the God of the universe, or at least evidence of a lack of time spent with Him. You may say, "But Steve, we all act that way from time to time." Yes, we do. Have you ever noticed that those times come when we are far from God? When we have not spent time in His Word? When we are more focused on ourselves than others? When we are far from God, we lose touch with His ways, His Kingdom, and His voice directing each of us how to live out our lives as banners of His love... His Kingdom of Love. Jesus said others would know we are His disciples by our love for one another (and He possibly inferred love for others who are different from us as well). (read John 13:35)

The apostle Jesus loved then made an obvious observation: "...for God is love." (read verse 8) Because all love is an expression of God... then, God is love. That is the essence of God's existence and being... expressive, elaborate, and eternal.  All real love can neither be created nor destroyed, for it originates with God... just as faith originates from Him (Hebrews 12:2).  In fact, God's love is faithful. There is a great worship song that was popular a few years ago with the chorus: "Your love never fails; it never gives up; it never runs out on me."  Our expression of God's love should be no less.

Let's love one another... even if we don't understand all its nuances or the purposes God may achieve through our fragile vessel.

Love to all,

steve

5 Understandable Words for Today

"Can anyone become a prophet?"  1 Samuel 10:12

This simple five word question begs for an answer. What led to this question being poised? 1 Samuel 8 describes how Samuel's oldest sons, Joel and Abijah, were the executive judges for the central region of Israel in Beersheba. Unfortunately, they did not reflect the same godly characteristics of their father. This must have been difficult for Samuel to realize, as he had witnessed similar characteristics in Eli's sons during his years of service in the temple at Shiloh. (see 1 Samuel 2:23-26)  Samuel's son's: "...accepted bribes and perverted justice." (1 Samuel 8:3)

The leaders of Israel took action to end this cycle and called a meeting in Ramah to discuss the issue with Samuel. They posed three main points: (1) Samuel was aging out, (2) Samuel's sons were corrupt, (3) a proposal of a king to judge and rule would give Israel diplomatic favor by maintaining a government similar to the countries around them. (see I Samuel 8:5) The proposal did not strike Samuel as a positive one. However, he sought guidance from God Who advised him to go along with the proposal, for this was not about rejecting Samuel and his sons, as the real motivation was the nation rejecting God - a pattern adopted since being delivered from Egypt. God then advised Samuel to warn the people about the liabilities of monarchy. (see I Samuel 8:6-9)

Samuel warned the national leaders of such a major shift in governance. However, "the people refused to listen", stating, "we still want a king" (both five word phrases in 8:19). Then they totally indicted themselves with the statement: "We want to be like the nations around us." (8:20) Thus, Samuel was directed by God to anoint Saul as king. (A very intriguing episode when God used the donkeys belonging to Saul's father to lead Saul to Samuel. It's worth the quick read, found in 1 Samuel 9:1 - 10:2)

After Samuel had anointed Saul as the future king of Israel, which by the way includes the five words: "...the Lord has appointed you..." (10:1) Samuel described a sequence of events which would occur on Saul's journey back to his father's home. Samuel detailed how the Spirit of the Lord would come upon Saul powerfully, stating, "You will be changed into a different person." Samuel also related how this would effect Saul to prophesy with a "band of prophets" (10:5) After this time with Samuel, Saul turned to leave and God gave him a new heart. (10:9) Saul was of the tribe of Benjamin, not from the tribe of Levi. Priests and prophets were from the tribe of Levi, yet there is the record of Saul "prophesying" with the other prophets... pointing hearts to God - our Provider, our Protector, and our Personal Savior.

Though the sequence of events leading to this 'new heart', may seem different, the outcome is still the same today: when people's hearts are changed by the power of God's Spirit, the NATURAL outcome is (1) to prophecy (to agree with others who prophecy, as Saul agreed with the band of prophets); (2) to tell others about the life change which occurred; and (3) to be a different person than you were previously, with a new heart (a new world view - God's righteous view for oneself and mankind).  The same occurs with the Christ follower once one begins to follow Christ. His/her life is transformed over time, resulting in a new heart, a new perspective - and a changed person from what he/she used to be. 

 We, like Saul, may not have the spiritual pedigree of the Billy Graham family, though when God calls us and ignites the change in our hearts, we are just as reliable a source to proclaim His salvation as Billy Graham.

Can anyone become a prophet? Well, according to this scripture..... YES! As God calls and anoints one to proclaim His message of redemption to the world and through the transforming power of God's Spirit in us.

Turn your heart to Christ. Let Him create in you a new heart - a pure heart (Psalm 51:10); then tell everyone in your circle of influence about Christ's life-changing power and how God changed you into a different person.

for Christ alone,

steve (John 3:30)

5 Understandable Words for Today

"...you have rejected the Lord."   Numbers 11:20

Before beginning to inspect this simple phrase, please read Numbers 11.

The first sign of trouble in any camp is complaining. It's difficult to intercept and disperse the effects of complaining, as oftentimes it comes as the first cousin to gossip. It's like splitting open a feather pillow on a windy day and then trying to gather all the feathers which were blown away. When the people of Israel began to complain, the writer described what God was doing: "...and the Lord heard everything...".

Oftentimes, we may think that God's ear is only bent towards the prayers of His children. Here, however, we see how God's ears hear EVERYTHING. Just as nothing is hidden from God's eyes (see Proverbs 15:3), so every word we speak does not get past our Lord's scrutiny (see Matthew 12:36). This complaining by His own people whom He had chosen and delivered from slavery did not set well with the Lord. In fact, God sent a raging fire that caused the lives of some of the people in the outskirts of the camp. The people cried out to Moses for help and Moses interceded for the people of God - only then did the fire stop. (Jesus can calm a storm; God can quench a fire - or make it burn without consuming the fuel source!) That place was named, Taberah - what we would call Hell or "the place of burning". (v.3)

There were some foreigners who had joined the enormous Israeli caravan who began to crave the good things of Egypt: meat, fish, cucumbers, melons, leeks, onions, and garlic. They infected the Israelites with the same craving, causing them to sin against God. God had been providing manna for their desert journey... they complained of the manna. Upon hearing this complaint, God declared today's five understandable words and worked two unusual miracles:

First, the Lord instructed Moses to call a meeting of seventy recognized leaders of Israel in front of the tent housing the Tabernacle. God told Moses that He would descend and converse with Moses there in front of them all, and would then take some of the Spirit which filled Moses and share it among those gathered before the Tent of Meeting. He then directed Moses to have the leaders prepare themselves through a ritual to purify themselves, after which they would be provided meat that would take a month to consume. In fact, God declared that those who complained of the manna and whined for meat would gag on the meat God would send and become sick. Moses responded to God in an understandable way. He basically said, "Get real. We've got six hundred thousand foot soldiers, and You are saying there will be enough meat for a month? If we butchered all our flocks and herds and caught all the fish in the sea we wouldn't have enough." (v.'s 16-22) Now, this statement came from the man who had seen the plagues and the parting of the sea. He still had not gotten it, had he?

God challenged Moses' response by asking Him one question, "Has my arm lost its power?", and said Moses would see with his own eyes whether God's word would come true or not. (v. 23) After Moses gathered the seventy leaders together, the Lord descended in the form of a cloud, and they all prophesied (they all testified of God's greatness and power). In fact, two leaders who had stayed behind in camp also began prophesying at the same time! (v.'s 26-27)

The second miracle occurred when God sent a strong wind that brought quail from the sea, that fell all around the camp for miles in every direction. The people were able to gather as much as they could. In fact, no one gathered less than fifty bushels! (v.'s 31-32) As the people were field dressing the foul, gorging themselves on the meat, and hanging much of it out to dry (cure), they became sick with a severe plague, and many died. They named the graveyard where they buried all those who had whined for meat, "graves of gluttony". (v. 34)

How does a story like that relate to us today? It seems we often dream of the good ole' days: a time when things were better: the food tasted better; the stresses were less; we were comfortable in our routines. Then God rustled the nest of our lives and we took a new job, or were relocated or reassigned to a new work... things changed. We resist change. In fact, we just plain don't deal very well with change. I'm not talking about coinage either. The Israelites had forgotten the harsh conditions in which they lived and had rewritten the history so drastically that one would think the nation lived in luxury instead of slavery. (Re-writing history is always a dangerous practice.)

Whining and complaining does not solve anything, yet the human condition often embraces this response to change when there is a lack of personal resources or because of the con-sequences of poor decisions, etc. God desires to show us His sufficient grace for each and every moment. God wants to turn our whining into winning by strengthening us with resolve to be overcomers. (read Romans 8:31-39) (For more verses on being an overcomer, go to this web address: http://bible.knowing-jesus.com/topics/Overcomers)

As a nation, we have rejected the Lord... we are just now seeing the beginning of God's hand of discipline on our nation: less productivity, higher crime, greater debt, and the collapse of the traditional home. We have become a nation of whiners, complaining about what we should be entitled to possess without the responsibility of working to achieve, provide, and protect. In my book, Freedom's Foundation, I describe the blessings and curses that are consequential to either embracing or rejecting God's way. (read the vignette number forty) Join me in repenting for our nation, encouraging Christ followers to turn from sin and pray - seeking God's face, that He would forgive our sin and heal our land. (read 2 Chronicles 7:14)

John 3:30

steve

5 Understandable Words for Today

"...his name will not disappear..."  Ruth 4:10d

I've always been intrigued with magicians, people who have practiced the skill to make things disappear or appear using slight of hand that cannot be detected by the casual observer. But they are in reality only tricksters. They make us think something has happened when, actually, he/she has only disguised it to appear that way. With God though, He raises Kingdoms up and brings them down. He spoke the world into being, and His Son, Jesus, could calm a raging see by His command - and it was done without a slight of hand maneuver.  Mahlon's name was important to Boaz and the people of his day because of the how God also preserved the name of Perez.  I promised you that I would share the significance of Perez's name being mentioned in the account of Ruth's marriage to Boaz. However, let me warn you... this is going to get messy.

God works through the worst of circumstances to bring about a good end. Only God can turn the despicable acts of others into a blessing. The relationship between Lot and his daughters brought about two tribes who were considered related to the Jews - yet tainted. Thinking that all of the world had been destroyed, Lot's daughters came up with a scheme to continue the race of man. Their plan resulted in the birth of bastard sons from an incestuous relationship with their father. This was accomplished by Lot's daughters getting him drunk. There thinking was faulty and without faith, for they did not trust God to work through their dire circumstance and continue the human race through His own methods (He could have created two other men from the dust of the earth). Yet, through this corrupt action, God, in His time, brought about the life of Ruth, who teaches us about full trust in God's ways to protect and provide for His children.

After losing her husband in death, God once again showed how he can work things out for the good through the life of Ruth... to bless her and her future heirs. This woman of Moabite heritage became the grandmother of the second King of Israel!  A family member of her deceased husband, Mahlon, was moved with compassion for Ruth and took legal actions that would protect and provide for her.  Boaz became her "Kinsman-redeemer".  As such, his life points to Christ, Who, to us, is closer than a brother (the ultimate Kinsman) and is our Redeemer (the One Who blesses our life for things to work out for the good).

When Boaz worked through the customs of that day to redeem Ruth's life, he was blessed by the city leaders and those who witnessed his actions of kindness. Boaz announced: "Today you are witnesses that I have bought from Naomi all the property of Elimelek, Kilion, and Mahlon. I have acquired Ruth the Moabite, Mahlon's widow, as my wife, in order to maintain the name of the dead with his property, so that his name will not disappear from among his family or from his hometown." (Ruth 4:9-10)

The name of each person is significant. God knows each of us intimately and has a plan for our lives. In fact, in the townspeople's blessing, they pronounced: "Through the offspring the Lord gives you by this young woman, may your family be like that of Perez, whom Tamar bore to Judah." What is the significance of Perez's life?

Welllllll.... prepare yourself again.... it's about to get even messy'er'. Follow along with me in your Bible as I seek to describe the events of Genesis 38. Tamar was the daughter-in-law of Judah, the fourth son of Jacob. Tamar was first married to Er, Judah's oldest son who was evil, so God took his life. Tamar became Judah's daughter-in-law a second time when Judah arranged for his next oldest son, Onan, to marry her (the Kinsmen-Redeemer). Onan viewed any child born from that arrangement to be the son/daughter of the deceased brother (I know, it seems odd, doesn't it).   So, knowing that the child would not be "his" (even though genetically it would have been),  Onan "wasted his seed" (demonstrating his lack of faith in God to work all things out for the good) so Tamar would not get pregnant. God viewed this action as evil, too, for which Onan's life was taken as well. (I warned you this was going to get messy, but there's more...)

Tamar, widowed twice over, was sent to live with her father, but not before Judah promised to her that she would return when his youngest son, Shelah, grew up, at which time she would become his wife (Shelah would then become the kinsman redeemer). We don't know how many years passed, but we are told it was a long time, when Judah's wife, the daughter of Shua, died.  Tamar, impatient by the amount of time passing for Judah's youngest son to grow up, took matters into her own hand (do we ever do that?): she discovered that Judah was on his way to shear some of his sheep in a nearby village; discarded her widows garb; dressed herself in a veil; and strategically stationed herself along the road for Judah to notice her.  And notice her he did!  He thought she was a prostitute! He made arrangements to "do business" with her - giving as pledge (for payment) his own cord with his seal (an important article for business transactions within the region), as well as his staff. Judah impregnated his own daughter-in-law (without even knowing it - I'm not sure how that happened), and sent the "fee" of a young goat by way of his long time Adullamite friend, Hirah. (Judah had been friends with Hirah a long time. He actually lived with him for a while, and met his Canaanite wife at that time.)   Judah had described Tamar as a shrine prostitute by the side of the road.  Hirah was to deliver the young goat to her, but was unsuccessful in locating a shrine prostitute anywhere in the area.

Three months passed and the news of Tamar's pregnancy traveled through the region's gossip grapevine, finally reaching the ears of Judah, who ordered that she be brought out and burned to death. As she was being brought out, she had a messenger return the articles he had left behind that day. Knowing he would become the target of judgment, her life was spared. She gave birth to twin sons: one, whose hand came out first, and to whose wrist a midwife tied a scarlet thread; and the other, who broke out ahead of the first child with the scarlet thread. The one who broke out first was named Perez. The second child was named Zerah.

Perez, however, became the forefather of Boaz - acknowledging the significance of God's hand in working all things out for the good. You see, the future is no different than the past to God. We live in linear time, but God resides in all time. He was working, even through the contorted events that brought Perez into this world, to make things work together for Ruth... and for us... for the lineage of Christ, as described in Matthew 1:3-5, includes the lives of Judah, Perez, and a Moabite woman named Ruth. God takes the messes we make of life and turns them into blessings. Trust Him today to making all things work together for good in your life, just as He did in these messy lives.

Though Mahlon's name is not mentioned again... he was not forgotten... his name did not disappear from the fabric of history, and neither will yours when you place your life in His hands.

Giving my messes to Him,

steve

5 Understandable Words for Today

"You are all witnesses today."  Ruth 4:10d

Last week's blog revealed the anointed calling in the life of Boaz to be Ruth's redeemer. You see, due to the death of her husband, the culture of that day adopted the biblical conditions for a widow to be "redeemed" or rescued by the living closest relative of her deceased husband. The term Kinsmen-redeemer is used only seven times in the NIV Bible - and they are all found in the book of Ruth. The purpose for being her kinsmen-redeemer was to preserve the family's land inheritance established upon the land grants given once the Israelites conquered the promised land. (Leviticus 25:23)

Boaz, it seems, wanted to do right by Ruth. As we saw last week, he instructed his workers to set aside some of the harvest for her and her mother in law, Naomi. He also was upright in how he treated her when he could have taken advantage of her the evening he had finished the day eating and drinking, and - feeling no pain - he went to sleep at the end of the grain pile. (Ruth 3:7-11) He was knowledgeable enough on the practice of kinsmen-redeemer, that he explained to Ruth what he would do, because there was another man who was more closely related to her dead husband than he. He did not chase her away, but invited her to stay through the night in his grainery and he would seek to redeem her himself in the morning at the city gates - which is exactly what happened. (Ruth 3:12-4:10)

At the end of the interaction with the elders and family members, it was agreed that Boaz would be the kinsman-redeemer. Boaz sealed the deal with today's 5 Understandable Words: "You are all witnesses today." He made it a public proclamation. He was not ashamed of Ruth and his ability to redeem her. He secured her husband's inheritance. As a result those standing at the city gates blessed him with these words: "May you prosper in Ephratha and be famous in Bethlehem. And may the Lord give you descendants by this young woman who will be like those of our ancestor Perez, the son of Tamar and Judah." (Ruth 3:11-12) (I'll discuss the significance of Perez next week)

Well, Ruth did have children. In fact, her first son was named Obed. He became the father of Jesse who was the father of King David. Ruth was the great-grandmother of King David! A Moabite woman! (see last week's blog to understand the significance of that statement) King David was described as, "a man after God's own heart." (I Samuel 13:14) And, of course, the description of Jesus' lineage in Matthew includes Ruth. So, you see, the blessing by the people at the city gates was actually prophetic - pointing to the One true Redeemer, Jesus Christ.

Weddings are a beautiful event when focused on God's precepts of love and fidelty - just as exhibited through both Ruth and Boaz. Let their story encourage you today to trust God in providing His Redeemer for you... in your life situation.

As God is my witness... He will make a way...

steve