Real
Bible Faith Defined
Hebrews 11:1, 2
It is important that a definition is
clearly understood and the following example will help. Hebrews 11:27,
By faith he (Moses) forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of
the king: for he endured, as seeing him who is invisible. Moses forsook Egypt 40 years before he met God
at the burning bush. That was faith!
Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is the substance
of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.The
English word "faith" is made up of two Greek words, hupoand stasis. Hupo
means "under" and stasis means "to stand" thus,
that which stands under a foundation. It speaks of the ground on which
one builds a hope. Moulton and Milligan report its use as a legal term.
They say that it stands for the whole body of documents bearing on the
ownership of a persons property deposited in archives, and forming the
evidence of ownership. They suggest the following translation,
Faith is the title-deed of things hoped for. (Vocabulary of the
Greek New Testament)
The Holy Spirit energizes the act of
faith that the believer exercises; it is the title deed which God puts
into his hand guaranteeing to him the possession of the faith for which
he trusted Christ. In other words, we are guaranteed the possession
of eternal life both now and forever. Vincent translates, "Faith
is the assurance of things hoped for," in these words, It is
the firm grasp of faith on unseen fact.
The word "evidence" could be
translated, "a proof, by which a thing is proved or tested."
Thayer says, that by which invisible things are proved and we are
convinced of their reality. His second definition of the wordconvinced
is conviction. The above paragraphs were excerpted from HEBREWS
in the New Testament by Kenneth Wuest.
Finally, in Hebrews 11:2 we have a momentous
statement, through faith we understand the worlds were formed. Heb.
11:6, But without faith it is impossible to please God; for he that
cometh to God must believe that He is! Rabbi Simlai
in the third century noted that Moses gave us 365 prohibitions and 248
positive commands. David in Psalm 15 reduced them to eleven. Isaiah
in 33:14, 15 made them six. Micah 6:8 binds them into three. Habakkuk
reduces them all to one, namely: The just shall live by faith.
Heb.11
[1] Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of
things not seen.
[2] For by it the elders obtained a good report.
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May 2nd
Abel's Righteousness
Genesis 4:1-5
Cain and Abel were the sons of Adam and
Eve. We do not have a detailed description about the economy of worship
at this time, however, we read in Hebrews 12:24 about Jesus the mediator of the new covenant,
and to the blood of sprinkling, that speaketh
better things than that of Abel. In other words, Abel's sacrifice
involved blood and the sprinkling of blood.
According to this picture, the sinner
is unable to pay the just penalty of sin. The sinner stands helpless
and condemned. The wages of sin is death. Though physical death is in
view, spiritual death is included. Therefore, the only hope is that
another pays the penalty for him. It is the humble recognition of guilt,
and the inability to satisfy the demands of divine justice.
In the account of Cain and Abel, there
is no real discussion of their lives. There is only this reference to
their occupations and their worship. Outwardly, their lives may have
been very similar. The life of Cain may have even appeared better than
that of Abel, but God is pleased with Abel's sacrifice and He is not
pleased with Cain's sacrifice. The focus of Cain's sacrifice is self
and pride. He calls attention to himself and his works. Abel on the
other hand calls attention to his inability and need.
Both of these involve faith in God. Yet,
Abel's faith rests wholly in the mercy and grace of God. When God does
not accept Cain's sacrifice, he is offended. His heart fills with envy
and hate. If he did not see his need before, he ought to have seen it
in his reaction to his rejection by God. Yet, rather than respond in
faith and humility, he responds in hate and murder.
From the beginning, God makes it clear
that salvation is a matter of faith and righteousness. We need to trust
first in what God tells us about our sinful condition. It is only after
we understand the nature of our need, that our hearts will be open to
trust what God tells us about meeting the demands of His justice. Here
Abel trusts God to provide a perfect sacrifice through the image of
the sacrifice of an animal. With this faith, God is pleased. Abel's
righteousness is demonstrated in his heart and worship.
Gen.4
[1] And Adam knew Eve his wife; and she conceived, and bare Cain, and
said, I have gotten a man from the LORD.
[2] And she again bare his brother Abel. And Abel was a keeper of sheep,
but Cain was a tiller of the ground.
[3] And in process of time it came to pass, that Cain brought of the
fruit of the ground an offering unto the LORD.
[4] And Abel, he also brought of the firstlings of his flock and of
the fat thereof. And the LORD had respect unto Abel and to his offering:
[5] But unto Cain and to his offering he had not respect. And Cain was
very wroth, and his countenance fell.
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May 3rd
Enoch: Faith's
First Translation
Heb. 11:5, Gen. 5:21-24, Jude 14
Hebrews 11:5 By faith Enoch was
translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because
God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony,
that he pleased God. Walking with God and pleasing God! This
man, Enoch, is a marvelous example of the relationship that God desires
in those who are His true children. Let us take a closer look.
Genesis 5:21-24, And Enoch lived
sixty and five years, and begat Methuselah: 22 And Enoch walked with
God after he begat Methuselah three hundred years, and begat sons and
daughters: 23 And all the days of Enoch were three hundred sixty and
five years: 24 And Enoch walked with God:
and he was not; for God took him. Say, do you walk with God
like Enoch? This man obviously loved God with all his heart and desired
above all else to serve and obey God in his life. It would be a wonderful
thing if our names could be mentioned in God's Word just like Enoch's.
In fact, there is a record being kept of our lives! As true believers
we will stand before God on judgment day and give an account of our
lives to our Creator. As true believers, this judgment will only be
for reward as our Savior, Jesus Christ, has already paid the sin debt.
The real question is this: Are we living and walking in such a way as
to receive the prize, to receive the rewards that God wants to give to His children!? If so, then we can count on
the book and records being kept of our lives showing up as Enoch's did.
What a beautiful testimony of a man that desired to give to God everything
in his life. Enoch walked with God. Hopefully, God could insert our
name in place of Enoch's depending on how we choose to daily live for
Him.
Jude 14 And Enoch also, the seventh
from Adam, prophesied of these, saying, Behold, the Lord cometh with
ten thousands of his saints. Evaluation time! Are you one of
these ten thousands of His saints!? If not, why not make sure today!
Dear Heavenly Father, how exciting it
is to see what You did in Enoch's life. We desire to walk with You just
as Enoch did. Forgive us of our sin and lead us in Your truth, Your
Word is truth. Help us to be obedient children and to walk faithfully,
fully trusting our Savior Jesus! Amen.
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May 4th
Noah's Faith
in Action is Family Preservation
Gen. 6:8 through 9:29, 2 Peter 2:5, Heb. 11:7
The human race had been on the earth
for 1650 years according to Usher's chronology of the Bible. In 1650
years it had never rained. In Genesis 6:1-7, we have the narration
of the wickedness of the race and in verses 8 and 9 we see one man who
is walking with God, Noah. In verse 14, God speaks to Noah and commands
him to build an ark. I can see Noah mulling this over in his mind. "Why
build a big boat on high and dry land. There's never been a flood, I
don't even know what rain is; people will think I'm out of my mind."
A man once said to me, theres not one word about Noah being a preacher in
the Bible. I opened my Bible to 2 Peter 2:5 and read these words,
And spared not the old world, but saved Noah the eighth person,
a preacher of righteousness, bringing in the flood upon the world of
the ungodly. Noah was a building-preacher. He preached repentance
of sin and salvation. He had a large congregation that gathered daily
to see the progress of the crazy boat builder and his sons. Every time
scoffers gathered Noah laid down his hammer and preached salvation to
those who were already spiritually dead and very soon to physically
die.
What they didn't know was that when the
last nail was driven, the last pair of animals entered the ark along
with Noah and his family, God would shut the door and the rain would
begin to fall. The deluge of rain lasted forty days and the fountains
of the deep opened up and the whole earth was covered to the tops of
the mountains with water. There are some that believe it was only a
local flood. Read Gen. 7:20-22 and see if they are right.
Every living soul perished, except eight
men and women who believed God and were safely in the ark. What a beautiful
picture for us. Jesus promised salvation to all that believe in His
atoning blood shed on the Cross, but most of the worlds scoffers reject
the plan of salvation that was offered 2000 years ago. We, too, have
the responsibility to continue preaching that message day by day, because
judgment is coming as sure as it did in Noahs day. 2 Peter 3:10-12 promises another
great judgment upon the earth, read it! But the day of the Lord will
come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away
with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the
earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.
2 Peter 3: 10-12 Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved,
what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness,
[12] Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein
the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall
melt with fervent heat?
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May 5th
Abraham's
Faith
Hebrews 11:8-11
All of the three major world religions
point to Abraham and Abrahams God as the father of their faith. This
is true of Islam, Judaism and Christianity. This in itself is a great
witness of the truth of the Bible. All three accept Jesus Christ as
a great prophet.
Sadly, it seems that shortly after the
flood, most people did not follow the path of faith and righteousness.
Abraham did not follow the path of his fathers. He responded in faith
and obedience to God. I believe that God comes to every person sometime
in life in a meaningful way. Sadly, most rebel and will not respond.
Most people profess that if God made things clear to them, they would
respond. Perhaps this is true. We read of a day when every knee will
bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory
of God.
What people need to realize is that some,
like Abraham, respond and find great blessings, without understanding
everything. We read in our text for today that Abraham obeyed;
and he went out, not knowing whither he went! He was confident
of God's goodness and direction. He only needed to know that God wanted
him to leave the place where he was.
God puts all those who would follow Him
to the test, and all that believe obey and find blessing. Fallen humanity
on the other hand, wants to put God to the test. Before setting aside
their pride and self-interest, they want to be secure in blessing. Yet,
we need to appreciate that the perfection and blessing God has for us
cannot be found in a world where people do right for reward. It can
only be found in a world where people love truth and righteousness.
Abraham was this kind of man. He had
his failures, but he followed the path of faith and obedience. He came
to know God and the blessings of God in a troubled world. It would be
interesting to look at all the families that were contemporary with
Abraham to see if any found the blessings Abraham did. I doubt it. The
nation of Israel with all
of its problems, was a light in the darkness of this world, but let
us not forget that it all began with Abraham and his faith and obedience to
God.
Hebrews 11: 8-11 By faith Abraham, when he was called
to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance,
obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went.
[9] By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country,
dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of
the same promise:
[10] For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder
and maker is God.
[11] Through faith also Sara herself received strength to conceive seed,
and was delivered of a child when she was past age, because she judged
him faithful who had promised.
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May 6th
Sarah: Life
Giving Faith
Heb. 11:11-12, Gen. 17:15, 18:9, 21:1,
Rom. 4:19
Hebrews 11:11-12, Through faith
also Sara herself received strength to conceive seed, and was delivered
of a child when she was past age, because she judged him faithful who
had promised. 12 Therefore sprang there even of one, and him as good
as dead, so many as the stars of the sky in multitude, and as the sand
which is by the sea shore innumerable. The promises of God are
something to behold! God promised Abraham and Sarah a child that would
become the Nation of Israel and He gave them this child and this nation,
in His time, in His place, and for His purpose. We also see another
wonderful example from Sarah. She believed God. She had a "Life
Giving Faith." She fully trusted that God would do exactly what
He said He would do. This is such an important lesson for us. Have we
personally believed what God said He would do to save us through His
Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, repenting of sin and trusting Him as our
Savior? Have we placed our lives into His hands with a "Life Giving
Faith?" There are many folks who have different kinds of faith,
but we really need to understand that there is only One Life Giving
Faith! This is the example. God Promised, Sarah Believed!
Romans 4:19 And being not weak
in faith, he considered not his own body now dead, when he was about
an hundred years old, neither yet the deadness of Sara's womb: There
is much that we can learn from these precious verses. This gives us
another example of our physical weakness in that we are physically unable
to obtain salvation. We are spiritually unable to obtain salvation by
ourselves. Through Life Giving Faith in Jesus Christ alone, we repent
of our own sin and trust Him for our salvation! Until we are spiritually
enabled by the Holy Spirit and then decide to take this step, we are
spiritually dead with no hope. But thanks be to God for His wonderful plan that none should perish
but that all should come to repentance. Have you repented of your sin
and trusted Christ to save you with the "Life Giving Faith"
that Sarah had!?
Dear Lord and Savior, we bow before You
this day and say Thank You for the example of Sarah. Thank You for the
opportunity of this Life Giving Faith that comes only through Jesus
Christ. Help us to make the right choice and then faithfully live for
You. In Jesus Name, Amen.
Gen. 17:15, And
God said unto Abraham, As for Sarai thy wife, thou shalt not call her
name Sarai, but Sarah shall her name be.
18:9. For I know him, that
he will command his children and his household after him, and they shall
keep the way of the LORD, to do justice and judgment; that the LORD
may bring upon Abraham that which he hath spoken of him.
21:1 And the LORD visited
Sarah as he had said, and the LORD did unto Sarah as he had spoken.
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May 7th
Recapping
of Faithful from Adam to Abraham
Heb. 11:4-7 and 13-16, Romans 8:24
In this devotional, we will discuss the
first 2 of 8 Dispensations (Innocence and Conscience) which cover approximately
2100 years. There are 20 generations recorded in Genesis covering this
time period. Three men are highlighted; Abel, Enoch (translated and
did not see death), and Noah. These men were all men of great faith,
recognizing this world was not their home, and looking for a better
country, that is, heaven. Hebrews 11:13 and 16 These all died
in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar
off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that
they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth! 16 But now they
desire a better country, that is, an heavenly:
wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared
for them a city. These were men of great faith. They had neither
the Ten Commandments, nor other written restrictions. They lived by
faith! Lest we take away from the other writers regarding these men,
we suffice to say they were heroes of the faith.
Adam and Eve lived in the dispensation
of Innocence and this writer does not think that was for very long.
We believe that Satan set out to destroy Adam's innocence in order to
gain supremacy over the human race and the world. Satan is the god of
this world. Defeated, yet active and will be so until He is cast into
the Lake of Fire.
Enoch and Noah lived in the dispensation
of Conscience. When all around them men were living in debauchery and
licentiousness, Enoch was walking with God. What a great testimony for
Enoch who had nothing but faith!
Probably no other generation was more
sinful than Noah's was. Here was a man who listened to the voice of
God in spite of taunting sinners and persecution from every side. These
giants of the faith lived according to Romans 8:24. Look it up!
Could our faith stand the opposition and persecution these men faced?
I hope we never have to find out! Faith and Doubt, doubt sees the
obstacles. Faith sees the way! Doubt sees the darkest night. Faith sees
the day! Doubt dreads to take a step. Faith soars on high! Doubt questions,
"Who believes?" Faith answers! "I!"
Heb. 11:4-7 By faith Abel offered unto
God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness
that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being
dead yet speaketh.
[5] By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and
was not found, because God had translated him: for before his translation
he had this testimony, that he pleased God.
[6] But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh
to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that
diligently seek him.
[7] By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved
with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which
he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is
by faith.
Heb. 11: 13-16 These all died in faith, not having received the promises,
but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced
them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth.
[14] For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a
country.
[15] And truly, if they had been mindful of that country from whence
they came out, they might have had opportunity to have returned.
[16] But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore
God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for
them a city.
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May 8th
Perfected
Faith
Hebrews 11:17-19
Hebrews 11:17-19 When it comes
to faith, many promise a quick and easy road, but this is not the path
of faith we find revealed in the Bible. God is working to fit us for
Heaven. He is working to purge us from all evil, and this is not a quick
and easy task. We read in the Bible that it is with great difficulty
that Gods people are saved.
A look at the life of Abraham reveals
this. God promised Abraham, a son that would be the source of great
blessing. After many years, the day came when Isaac was born. Then the
day came when God tried this faith. God asked Abraham to offer Isaac
as a sacrifice. In some ways, this is very troubling, yet God thoroughly
tries us and our ways. We are foolish to try Him or sit in judgment
on His ways. He is perfect, good and just. He gives us sufficient reason
to trust Him fully, but He never gives us all the answers we desire.
In this case, Abraham is confident that Issac
will live. He tells his servants that he and the child will return (Genesis
22:5). According to the account, Abraham expected God to raise Issac from the dead. This is not what happened. God
stayed Abrahams hand and provided a sacrifice. Abraham knew what God
asked of him. He did not delay. He trusted and he obeyed.
The point is that after many years of
faithfulness and failure, God seems to dash all of Abrahams
hopes and dreams as He calls on him to trust and obey. Abraham passes
the test. He believes God. He follows the same path that he chose as
he left his home and family. He does not understand everything. He follows
the path of faith. It is this character of faith more than anything
else that God blesses.
The blessings are not quick and easy.
The path is not quick and easy. Yet, the blessings are profound. The
path demands the deepest faith and commitment to God. It is the narrow
gate and the narrow way that leads to life everlasting. It is the path
that few find and few follow. The path of sin is ever quick and easy,
but it leads to destruction. The path of faith on the other hand is
slow and hard, but the blessings are eternal. Which path are you on
today?
Hebrews 11:17-19 By faith Abraham, when he was tried, offered up Isaac:
and he that had received the promises offered up his only begotten son,
[18] Of whom it was said, That in Isaac shall thy seed be called:
[19] Accounting that God was able to raise him up, even from the dead;
from whence also he received him in a figure.
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May 9th
Isaac: Revelation
Faith
Heb. 11:20, Gen. 27:1-40, 49:10
Hebrews 11:20 By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau concerning
things to come. Isaac is a prime example of a person who believes in the promises
of God, but who needs to repent before he can receive them. Isaac is
also a person who believes in the things to come in spite of sin. Isaac
believed that God would fulfill His promises through his sons, Esau
and Jacob. Unfortunately, Isaac and Rebekah
had their favorite sons. Isaac was determined to bring the greater blessing
of God to Esau, even though God had told him that Jacob was to receive
this blessing in Gen. 25:23. Isaac was not willing to obey God.
He did not want to obey God because he preferred Esau. Isaac planned
to ignore God and bless Esau. Rebekah heard
of these plans and she planned to deceive Isaac, her husband, as he
was blind and unable to see and pass the blessing along to Jacob. What
a tangled web of sin and deception, and yet, Gods plan and Gods purposes
will not be thwarted. Isaac mistakenly blessed Jacob and after finding
out the deception, decided he had better do Gods will. Genesis 27:33
And Isaac trembled very exceedingly, and said, Who? where is he that hath taken venison, and brought it
me, and I have eaten of all before thou camest,
and have blessed him? yea, and he shall be
blessed.
The point here is this: Isaacs faith was firm about the future in spite of
the sin. At first, Isaac was unwilling to follow God and do what God
had said. His son, Jacob, went out to secure Gods blessing by deception.
Jacob was unwilling to wait upon God. In the end, Isaac repented and
he believed God and he did Gods will. He knew that Gods will had
to be done. Say, where do you stand today? Are you truly living for
the Lord or are you trying to do things your own way? God will accomplish
His purpose, plan and will, whether we decide to obey or not. The best
choice is to obey so that we can also receive the blessings as people
of Revelation Faith!
Gracious and Merciful God, how we fail
You so much. How we often turn everyone to his own way. But thanks be to God who laid on Him the iniquity of us all. Help
us, O God to walk obediently in our short life here on this earth, fulfilling
Your plan in our lives for Your Glory.
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May 10th
Jacob, a Man
of Prophetic Faith
Heb. 11:21, Gen. 48:1-22. 49:1-28 (esp. 49:10)
Even before Jacob was born there was
enmity between Jacob and his brother, Esau. Genesis 25:23 And
the LORD said unto her, Two nations are in thy womb, and two manner of people shall be separated from thy bowels;
and the one people shall be stronger than the other people; and the
elder shall serve the younger. What a pronouncement God gave
to Rebekah! This prophecy from the Lord is
to this day, being fulfilled as the battle rages between the PLO and
Israel.
Wise parents don't take sides and create
division in the family, Isaac loved Esau and Rebekah
loved Jacob. This divisiveness trained the boys to be jealous toward
each other. Rebekahs desire to gain Esaus birth right for Jacob was both cunning and conniving,
but successful. After deceiving Isaac, Jacob had to flee to his Uncle
Laban in Haran, but on the way he stopped
at Bethel and made a vow to God. There
he built an altar and worshipped the God of Abraham. In spite of Jacobs deceit, he knew that he could only be successful
and have safety by putting his faith in Jehovah God. I don't know whether
he confessed his sin that night or not, but he must have, because God
blessed Jacob and years later he confessed his sin to Esau.
Jacob was deceived and Laban cheated him, but in it all, God brought him
back to the Promised Land. Twelve sons are named several times, but
Reuben, Judah, Joseph and Benjamin is
in the spotlight through out the rest of the Book of Genesis. Reuben
was the brother who saved Joseph from death, Gen. 37:21. Judah became the protector of
Benjamin on their second trip to Egypt to buy food for their families
and sheep. Joseph was the favorite son. Israel made the same mistake his
father did in that he loved one above the others. The adage, "like
father like son" was true in that day and is still true today.
Benjamin was Rachels
youngest son and brother of Joseph.
Joseph, a man of unwavering faith refused
to succumb to the temptations of Potiphars
wife. He was 17 when sold into slavery and spent 13 years in prison.
At 30 he made the transition from prisoner to prime minister and became
a savior to his family.
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May 11th
Joseph -
A Pure Faith
Hebrews 6:4-9
A look at the life of Joseph will show
that he looked ahead. In his death, he looked ahead to Gods people leaving
Egypt. In his life, he did not
give way to the strongest of human passions, but lived with eternity
in mind. His own brothers were convinced that when their father died,
he would seek vengeance. He did not. He left the wrongs for God to judge.
He believed that God allowed all the evil that came into his life for
a good purpose. Faith and righteousness go together. Sadly, due to the
imperfections of faith, many of Gods servants gave way to the very worst
of passions, but not Joseph. His faith produced a profound purity in
his life.
If our faith is pure, our lives will
be pure as well. Behind every imperfection in the life, is an imperfection
in the faith. We need to understand that our choices in life are directly
related to the values that we hold. In addition, the values we hold
are directly related to the things that we believe. In Josephs life, he had confidence that God had a good
purpose, even when it came to the evil things that happened to him.
He understood the truth we find in Romans 8:28. In this text,
we read, all things work together for good to them that love God,
to them who are the called according to his purpose.
Then, Joseph understood that God took
a very personal interest in the choices he made in life. We read in
Genesis 39:9, where he was tempted by the wife of his master.
He was able to look beyond his master, beyond social concerns and perhaps
even legal concerns. When tempted, he tells his masters wife, how then can I do this
great wickedness, and sin against God? This demonstrates the
purity of his faith. Joseph understood the truth we find in Proverbs
5:21. Here we read, the
ways of man are before the eyes of the LORD, and he pondereth
all his goings. With this in mind, Joseph found it unthinkable
to give way to such corruption. When we think of Joseph, we need to
remember the purity of his faith. What does our life say about our faith?
Heb.6
[4] For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have
tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost,
[5] And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world
to come,
[6] If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing
they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an
open shame.
[7] For the earth which drinketh in the rain that cometh oft upon it,
and bringeth forth herbs meet for them by whom it is dressed, receiveth
blessing from God:
[8] But that which beareth thorns and briers is rejected, and is nigh
unto cursing; whose end is to be burned.
[9] But, beloved, we are persuaded better things of you, and things
that accompany salvation, though we thus speak.
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May 12th
Amram
and Jochebad: Fearless Faith
Heb. 11:23, Ex. 2:2, 6:20
Hebrews 11:23 By faith Moses, when
he was born, was hid three months of his parents, because they saw he
was a proper child; and they were not afraid of the kings commandment.
Wow, what a godly example of Fearless
Faith parenting, even amongst the dire circumstances and edicts of a
corrupt king. Moses' parents had a Fearless Faith in God and obeyed
Him. They loved their son Moses, and they also loved God. Exodus
6:20 And Amram took him Jochebed his fathers sister
to wife; and she bare him Aaron and Moses: and the years of the life
of Amram were an hundred and thirty and seven
years. As godly and obedient parents, it was their love for God and
their son that made them do what they did to preserve their son and
use him to fulfill Gods promise of an eternal seed and eternal land
for His people. Exodus 2:2 And the woman conceived, and bare a
son: and when she saw him that he was a goodly child, she hid him three
months.
This is truly Fearless Faith on Jochebeds part. Biblically, we too, are to obey the
laws of the land, unless the laws differ with the laws of God. For Moses'
parents, the law of the land required that all male newborn children
were to be killed at birth. Failure to obey meant certain death. But
notice that Moses' parents were not afraid, because they believed God
and trusted Him completely. They loved God and His promises and they
obeyed through their belief in God and His promises. Therefore they
were willing to stake their lives on God and the promised seed and land.
This is Fearless Faith that only comes from God.
This example can apply to those who have
truly repented of sin and have placed their faith in Jesus Christ to
save them. There have been other men and women of Fearless Faith, who
were willing to place their lives on the line in obedient service to
their Lord. This life is too short not to figure out that the eternal
benefits are by far, the best. Let us be encouraged to be great Christians
of Fearless Faith!
Dear Heavenly Father, how we rejoice
in Your righteousness. Guide us through Your Holy Word and help us to
use the Fearless Faith, given to those who obediently follow Your commands.
Amen.
Exodus 6:20 And Amram took him Jochebed his father's
sister to wife; and she bare him Aaron and Moses: and the years of the
life of Amram were an hundred and thirty and seven years.
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May 13th
Sacrificing,
Suffering and Enduring Faith of Moses
Heb. 11:24-27, Ex. 2:11-20, Acts 7:20-24
Moses was born into the tribe of Levi
at a time when the Jewish people were in slavery in Egypt. Moses' mother knew from
his birth that this baby boy was to be used of God in some way in the
future, therefore, she disobeyed the edict of Pharaoh.
She placed him in the River of death, the Nile River and the crocodiles were
worshipped in the polytheism of Egypt. An Egyptian Princess found
the baby Moses and his sister, Miriam, offered to find a nurse for the
baby. The Hebrew mothers nursed their children until they were five
years old. Moses mother had an opportunity to instill the faith of his
fathers into the young child. Moses knew all about the God of Abraham,
Isaac and Jacob before he went into the palace. This brings to mind
Proverbs 22:6 Train up a child in the way he should go: and when
he is old, he will not depart from it. Moses' Mother trained
him in all things about Jehovah God.
According to Acts 7, Moses was well educated
in the schools of Egypt. As a prince in the Egyptian
ruling house, he had access to every part of the kingdom and at the
age of forty, he was infuriated by the treatment of his fellow Hebrews.
Though he was raised in the palace, he knew he was a Hebrew and set
out in the flesh, to liberate them. We often think we can do the work
of God in the flesh rather than in the Spirit and when we do we get
into trouble as Moses did. We must remember that Moses was of like passions
as we are. We cannot put him on a pedestal.
Moses like the other heros
of the faith was only human as we are and as weak and frail as we are.
The only difference between them and todays
believers is that they accepted their calling and trusted God to complete
His work through them. The person who is willing
to be submissive to the Holy Spirit and obey the Word of God today,
can still be a hero of the faith. God is still looking for men and women
who are Spirit controlled and willing to do Gods bidding, not counting
the cost nor afraid of what others will think; volunteers in the army
of God, not afraid of the enemy, but willing to tread on his territory
and seeking the lost. Willing to be a living, outgoing witness of what
God can do through a dedicated Christian. Are you that person?
Heb. 11:24-27 By faith Isaac blessed
Jacob and Esau concerning things to come.
[21] By faith Jacob, when he was a dying, blessed both the sons of Joseph;
and worshipped, leaning upon the top of his staff.
[22] By faith Joseph, when he died, made mention of the departing of
the children of Israel; and gave commandment concerning his bones.
[23] By faith Moses, when he was born, was hid three months of his parents,
because they saw he was a proper child; and they were not afraid of
the king's commandment.
[24] By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called
the son of Pharaoh's daughter;
Ex. 2:11-20 And it came to pass in
those days, when Moses was grown, that he went out unto his brethren,
and looked on their burdens: and he spied an Egyptian smiting an Hebrew,
one of his brethren.
[12] And he looked this way and that way, and when he saw that there
was no man, he slew the Egyptian, and hid him in the sand.
[13] And when he went out the second day, behold, two men of the Hebrews
strove together: and he said to him that did the wrong, Wherefore smitest
thou thy fellow?
[14] And he said, Who made thee a prince and a judge over us? intendest
thou to kill me, as thou killedst the Egyptian? And Moses feared, and
said, Surely this thing is known.
[15] Now when Pharaoh heard this thing, he sought to slay Moses. But
Moses fled from the face of Pharaoh, and dwelt in the land of Midian:
and he sat down by a well.
[16] Now the priest of Midian had seven daughters: and they came and
drew water, and filled the troughs to water their father's flock.
[17] And the shepherds came and drove them away: but Moses stood up
and helped them, and watered their flock.
[18] And when they came to Reuel their father, he said, How is it that
ye are come so soon to day?
[19] And they said, An Egyptian delivered us out of the hand of the
shepherds, and also drew water enough for us, and watered the flock.
[20] And he said unto his daughters, And where is he? why is it that
ye have left the man? call him, that he may eat bread.
Acts 7:20-24 In which time Moses was born, and was
exceeding fair, and nourished up in his father's house three months:
[21] And when he was cast out, Pharaoh's daughter took him up, and nourished
him for her own son.
[22] And Moses was learned in all the wisdom of the Egyptians, and was
mighty in words and in deeds.
[23] And when he was full forty years old, it came into his heart to
visit his brethren the children of Israel.
[24] And seeing one of them suffer wrong, he defended him, and avenged
him that was oppressed, and smote the Egyptian:
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Moses 14th
Moses -
A Meek Faith
Hebrews 11:28-29
Moses was an unusual man. It seems that
his mother was successful in bringing him to faith at an early age.
This faith left him with a strong sense of right and wrong. It enabled
him to overcome his teachers as the Egyptians gave him the best education
possible. In the Bible, Egypt is a type of the world.
In other words, he received a worldly education. We are warned in Colossians
2:8, Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit,
after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not
after Christ. There is a certain pride in knowledge. We read
in 1 Corinthians 8:1 Knowledge puffeth
up. We could translate this knowledge makes arrogant. It was
Moses faith that resulted in the meekness that enabled him to overcome
this temptation.
We read in Numbers 12:3, the man
Moses was very meek, above all the men which were upon the face of the
earth. Worldly wisdom would tell us that meekness is a poor
leadership characteristic. The fact that Moses was one of the greatest
leaders that this world has ever known contradicts this popular thinking.
Moses' meekness enabled him to overcome the pleasures of sin. Sin ever
seeks for self. Moses clearly had a heart for others and justice.
He could not seek for self while the
Hebrews were in cruel bondage. He chooses to share in the suffering
rather than to enjoy the pleasures of sin. His concern for the plight
of his people made him a great intercessor before God. As Moses is called,
we see him concerned about his ability to speak. His meekness makes
it difficult for him to speak, however, once
he has something on his heart, speaking is not a problem. When his heart
is full, he moves the people and he moves God very effectively. In the
book of Hebrews, we see him described as the mediator of a covenant.
He speaks to the people for God and he speaks to God for the people.
A person who is full of self finds it difficult to see things from another
perspective. In spite of his education, opportunity and position, Moses
maintains his position as the shepherd of Gods people and the servant
of God. Without faith, self will be the center of our universe.
Hebrews 11:28-29 Through
faith he kept the passover, and the sprinkling of blood, lest he that
destroyed the firstborn should touch them.
[29] By faith they passed through the Red sea as by dry land: which
the Egyptians assaying to do were drowned.
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May 15th
Joshua
and Israel: Protecting Faith
Heb. 11:30, Joshua 5:13-6:27
Hebrews 11:30 By faith the walls
of Jericho fell down, after they were compassed about seven days.
The Protecting Faith that we see here
from Joshua and from Israel is also a Conquering Faith.
This is a Faith that only God can give to obtain the victory in the
battles that Christians face against seemingly insurmountable forces
of evil and wickedness. This example is of Joshua leading the people
of Israel against Jericho. The city was a fortress
that was completely surrounded by a wall and manned by trained and strong
people. Just think of it for a moment. How would you consider taking
such a city? It would be humanly impossible, right? Of course the answer
is yes, it was humanly impossible, but we have Gods written Word for
us today that says, "All things are possible with God!" This
is what Joshua and the people of Israel did. They obeyed God and
He was then willing to give them the victory over their enemies. God
issued His command. This is where it gets even more interesting.
God told the people to follow 7 priests,
who were carrying the Ark of the Covenant, one time around each day,
in total silence, for six days. This was tough. Try to get your local
church to follow the pastors in silence for six days in a row! Then
on the last day they were to march around the city 7 times and after
the last time around, the priests were to blow their trumpets and the
people were to shout as loudly as they could. Yes, this 7th day may
have been a little easier to obey than the previous 6 days. God said
that if the people did this; if they believed in His instructions and
His promise, the walls of Jericho would fall down. That is
exactly what happened, too. The people obeyed God and witnessed God
miraculously at work. Christians! Take Heed! These promises are for
us today, as well. The biblical instructions may seem unreasonable and
foolish to the world, but God desires obedience from His children. He
will give a protecting and a conquering faith to those who will love
and follow Him. Are you prepared to follow God today!?
Mighty God of Creation, please forgive
us when we fail. Help us to be willing to follow the perfect protecting
and conquering plan that You have in store for those who will obey Your
commands. Amen.
Joshua 5:13-6:27
And it came to pass, when Joshua was by Jericho, that he lifted up his
eyes and looked, and, behold, there stood a man over against him with
his sword drawn in his hand: and Joshua went unto him, and said unto
him, Art thou for us, or for our adversaries?
[14] And he said, Nay; but as captain of the host of the LORD am I now
come. And Joshua fell on his face to the earth, and did worship, and
said unto him, What saith my lord unto his servant?
[15] And the captain of the LORD's host said unto Joshua, Loose thy
shoe from off thy foot; for the place whereon thou standest is holy.
And Joshua did so.
Josh.6
[1] Now Jericho was straitly shut up because of the children of Israel:
none went out, and none came in.
[2] And the LORD said unto Joshua, See, I have given into thine hand
Jericho, and the king thereof, and the mighty men of valour.
[3] And ye shall compass the city, all ye men of war, and go round about
the city once. Thus shalt thou do six days.
[4] And seven priests shall bear before the ark seven trumpets of rams'
horns: and the seventh day ye shall compass the city seven times, and
the priests shall blow with the trumpets.
[5] And it shall come to pass, that when they make a long blast with
the ram's horn, and when ye hear the sound of the trumpet, all the people
shall shout with a great shout; and the wall of the city shall fall
down flat, and the people shall ascend up every man straight before
him.
[6] And Joshua the son of Nun called the priests, and said unto them,
Take up the ark of the covenant, and let seven priests bear seven trumpets
of rams' horns before the ark of the LORD.
[7] And he said unto the people, Pass on, and compass the city, and
let him that is armed pass on before the ark of the LORD.
[8] And it came to pass, when Joshua had spoken unto the people, that
the seven priests bearing the seven trumpets of rams' horns passed on
before the LORD, and blew with the trumpets: and the ark of the covenant
of the LORD followed them.
[9] And the armed men went before the priests that blew with the trumpets,
and the rereward came after the ark, the priests going on, and blowing
with the trumpets.
[10] And Joshua had commanded the people, saying, Ye shall not shout,
nor make any noise with your voice, neither shall any word proceed out
of your mouth, until the day I bid you shout; then shall ye shout.
[11] So the ark of the LORD compassed the city, going about it once:
and they came into the camp, and lodged in the camp.
[12] And Joshua rose early in the morning, and the priests took up the
ark of the LORD.
[13] And seven priests bearing seven trumpets of rams' horns before
the ark of the LORD went on continually, and blew with the trumpets:
and the armed men went before them; but the rereward came after the
ark of the LORD, the priests going on, and blowing with the trumpets.
[14] And the second day they compassed the city once, and returned into
the camp: so they did six days.
[15] And it came to pass on the seventh day, that they rose early about
the dawning of the day, and compassed the city after the same manner
seven times: only on that day they compassed the city seven times.
[16] And it came to pass at the seventh time, when the priests blew
with the trumpets, Joshua said unto the people, Shout; for the LORD
hath given you the city.
[17] And the city shall be accursed, even it, and all that are therein,
to the LORD: only Rahab the harlot shall live, she and all that are
with her in the house, because she hid the messengers that we sent.
[18] And ye, in any wise keep yourselves from the accursed thing, lest
ye make yourselves accursed, when ye take of the accursed thing, and
make the camp of Israel a curse, and trouble it.
[19] But all the silver, and gold, and vessels of brass and iron, are
consecrated unto the LORD: they shall come into the treasury of the
LORD.
[20] So the people shouted when the priests blew with the trumpets:
and it came to pass, when the people heard the sound of the trumpet,
and the people shouted with a great shout, that the wall fell down flat,
so that the people went up into the city, every man straight before
him, and they took the city.
[21] And they utterly destroyed all that was in the city, both man and
woman, young and old, and ox, and sheep, and ass, with the edge of the
sword.
[22] But Joshua had said unto the two men that had spied out the country,
Go into the harlot's house, and bring out thence the woman, and all
that she hath, as ye sware unto her.
[23] And the young men that were spies went in, and brought Rahab, and
her father, and her mother, and her brethren, and all that she had;
and they brought out all her kindred, and left them without the camp
of Israel.
[24] And they burnt the city with fire, and all that was therein: only
the silver, and the gold, and the vessels of brass and of iron, they
put into the treasury of the house of the LORD.
[25] And Joshua saved Rahab the harlot alive, and her father's household,
and all that she had; and she dwelleth in Israel even unto this day;
because she hid the messengers, which Joshua sent to spy out Jericho.
[26] And Joshua adjured them at that time, saying, Cursed be the man
before the LORD, that riseth up and buildeth this city Jericho: he shall
lay the foundation thereof in his firstborn, and in his youngest son
shall he set up the gates of it.
[27] So the LORD was with Joshua; and his fame was noised throughout
all the country.
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May 16th
Rahab
by Faith Avoided Jericho's Destruction
Heb. 11:31, Joshua 2:12-20, 6:25, James 2:25, Matthew 1:5
Matthew 1:5 And Salmon begat Booz of Rachab (Rahab); and Booz begat Obed of Ruth; and Obed begat
Jesse. Rahab and Ruth are mentioned
in the above verse as being Gentile ancestors of Jesus. What an honor
to be chosen in the lineage of our Saviour!
Joshua sent two spies into Jericho to ascertain the strength
of the enemy and determine the best approach to destroying the fortified
city. At this point, Joshua did not know that God had a different plan
for Jericho's destruction. The second
chapter of Joshua gives us the history of the spies
entrance into the city, their protection in Rahabs
house and their promise to save and protect all her family who were
in the house at the time of the conquest.
When the archeologists were excavating
old Jericho, they found a section of
the wall still standing, and noted there had been a house constructed
on the wall at that point that had not been destroyed with the rest
of the city walls.
Rahab testified
to the history of the wandering Hebrews conquest of their enemies and
was seeking protection for herself and family.
They knew that Jehovah had been leading and protecting the Jews for
forty years and defeated all their enemies and provided for their every
need. By faith she hid the spies and told the searchers that they had
escaped into the mountains behind, or west of the city. Having been
there, I know the rugged mountains and caves that were hiding places
if the spies had gone to them. However, they were hidden under the straw
on the roof on Rahabs house.
Because of Rahabs
faith, hospitality and kindness to the spies, she was guaranteed survival.
Joshua 2:20-21 And if thou utter this our
business, then we will be guiltless of thine
oath which thou hast made us to swear. And she said, According unto
your words, so be it. And she sent them away, and they departed: and
she bound the scarlet line in the window. Finally, we often
refer to the scarlet cord of redemption found in the Old Testament as
a badge of faith and protection.
Heb. 11:31
Joshua 2:12-20, Now therefore, I pray you, swear unto me by the LORD,
since I have shewed you kindness, that ye will also shew kindness unto
my father's house, and give me a true token:
[13] And that ye will save alive my father, and my mother, and my brethren,
and my sisters, and all that they have, and deliver our lives from death.
[14] And the men answered her, Our life for yours, if ye utter not this
our business. And it shall be, when the LORD hath given us the land,
that we will deal kindly and truly with thee.
[15] Then she let them down by a cord through the window: for her house
was upon the town wall, and she dwelt upon the wall.
[16] And she said unto them, Get you to the mountain, lest the pursuers
meet you; and hide yourselves there three days, until the pursuers be
returned: and afterward may ye go your way.
[17] And the men said unto her, We will be blameless of this thine oath
which thou hast made us swear.
[18] Behold, when we come into the land, thou shalt bind this line of
scarlet thread in the window which thou didst let us down by: and thou
shalt bring thy father, and thy mother, and thy brethren, and all thy
father's household, home unto thee.
[19] And it shall be, that whosoever shall go out of the doors of thy
house into the street, his blood shall be upon his head, and we will
be guiltless: and whosoever shall be with thee in the house, his blood
shall be on our head, if any hand be upon him.
[20] And if thou utter this our business, then we will be quit of thine
oath which thou hast made us to swear.
6:25, And they burnt the city
with fire, and all that was therein: only the silver, and the gold,
and the vessels of brass and of iron, they put into the treasury of
the house of the LORD.
James 2:25, Likewise also
was not Rahab the harlot justified by works, when she had received the
messengers, and had sent them out another way?
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May 17th
Gideon -
A Weak Faith
Judges 6:36-40
Gideon is an example of a man whose performance
exceeded his heart. This ought to be a great encouragement to all of
us. God encouraged his doubts and calmed his fears enabling him to do
great things for God and Israel. When God calls him, he
is trying to hide wheat from the Midianites.
He is concerned and frustrated about the needs in Israel. He has not given way to
the idolatry. He has doubts about the people. He has doubts about himself.
He trusts God, but doubts Gods willingness to help and bless the people.
I like the way the angel of God addresses
Gideon. He says, (Judges 6:12)
the LORD is with thee, thou mighty man of valour. We see Gideons doubts as he answers the angel. Gideon
asks, (Judges 6:13)
if the LORD be with us, why then is all this befallen us? In other words, his doubts
and fears are the result of painful experience. After the encouragement
of two unusual signs, he agrees to follow Gods direction. It is a great
tribute to Gideons
character and leadership to see how many people are willing to follow
him into battle. It is interesting to note that where Gideon still doubts,
God knows that the people will not recognize the hand of God in their
deliverance for they are too many. After reducing Gideons force to just 300 men, God assures Gideon
that He will bring a great victory through the 300.
Gideon follows the path of obedience,
but his heart is still full of doubts and fears. When the time for battle
comes, God tells Gideon, (Judges 7:9-11)
Arise, get thee down unto the host; for I have delivered
it into thine hand. 10But if thou fear to
go down, go thou with Phurah thy servant down
to the host: 11And thou shalt hear what they
say; and afterward shall thine hands be strengthened
to go down unto the host. Then went he down
with Phurah his servant. Here,
God patiently strengthens Gideons hand to
enable him to do what is necessary to successfully engage the battle.
It is not necessary to have great faith, but it is necessary to have
faith. Thank God, He is able and willing to patiently strengthen our
faith and calm our fears. If we fail it is a matter of unbelief and
not weak faith.
Judges
6:36-40 And Gideon said unto God, If thou wilt save Israel
by mine hand, as thou hast said,
[37] Behold, I will put a fleece of wool in the floor; and if the dew
be on the fleece only, and it be dry upon all the earth beside, then
shall I know that thou wilt save Israel by mine hand, as thou hast said.
[38] And it was so: for he rose up early on the morrow, and thrust the
fleece together, and wringed the dew out of the fleece, a bowl full
of water.
[39] And Gideon said unto God, Let not thine anger be hot against me,
and I will speak but this once: let me prove, I pray thee, but this
once with the fleece; let it now be dry only upon the fleece, and upon
all the ground let there be dew.
[40] And God did so that night: for it was dry upon the fleece only,
and there was dew on all the ground.
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May 18th
Barak:
Faith's Triumph
Heb. 11:32, Judges 4-5
Hebrews 11:32 And what shall I more say? for
the time would fail me to tell of Gedeon,
and of Barak, and of Samson, and of Jephthae; of David also, and Samuel, and of the prophets:
Strong and courageous leadership is something
that Barak was not. There had been peace in
the land of Israel for about 80 years, but
because of the great wickedness of the people, God had allowed the people
to be sold into the hand of the king of Canaan, Jabin.
King Jabin was a harsh king and the children
of Israel cried out to the Lord because
he had 900 chariots of iron and had harshly oppressed them for twenty
years.
Debra, an unusual woman of wisdom and
influence, a prophetess, was judging Israel at that time and she called
for Barak and told him what God had commanded.
To take 10,000 men and go out into battle against Jabin and his 900 chariots of iron and against massive
and strong army. Barak was afraid and said,
"I"ll go if you will go with me."
She agreed to go and it was then that Barak
surrendered to the call of God in his life. But because of his falter
and lack of courage in not leading the way, God allowed another woman
to kill the commander of Jabins army, Sisera.
Barak was already
a soldier and he faced a formidable foe. With the help of Debra, Barak
believed God and he attacked with only 10,000 men. Sounds like Gideon
with only 300 men. We read that God went before Barak
and that day delivered that army of Jabin
and commander Sisera into his hand. The Lord routed them. We can
learn some important lessons here. When God gives us a job to do, we
better do it and do it right away. We can tap into that mighty Faith
of Triumph if we will only choose to follow and obey God without question
and with much courage. As He did for Barak
who had this Triumphal Faith, God will also lead us to accomplish what
He desires in our lives! Then, just as Barak
and Debra sang, a glad song will come from our hearts in joyful praise
unto God Almighty who is able to deliver us from all our foes.
Heavenly Father, we are humbled today
from Your mighty hand at work in our hearts. Forgive us for lack of
courage and obedience. Help us to live our lives with Your Courageous,
Faith of Triumph. Amen.
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May 19th
Samson's Faith
led to His Great Strength
Hebrews 11: 32 and Judges 13:1; 16:30-31
Hebrews 11:32 And what shall I more say? for
the time would fail me to tell of Gedeon,
and of Barak, and of Samson, and of Jephthae; of David also, and Samuel, and of the prophets:
Judg.13:1 And the children of Israel
did evil again in the sight of the LORD; and the LORD delivered them
into the hand of the Philistines forty years.
Samson is an oxymoron to this writer.
He was chosen of God to be a Judge over Israel, that is, a leader and military
strategist. The Angel of the Lord informed Samson's mother that he was
to be a Nazarite from birth. That means he
was never to cut or shave his head or beard. He was not to drink wine
or strong drink and never to touch a dead body.
There is something very interesting in
Judges 13:18 that needs to be enlarged upon
for your understanding. And the angel of the LORD said unto him,
Why askest thou thus after my name, seeing
it is secret? The word "secret" should be translated "Wonderful."
It is the same Hebrew word found in Gen. 32:29 and Isa.
9:6. In theology we call this a "theophany"
(a visible appearance of God or Christ to a man). Returning to Isaiah
9:6 For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the
government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called
Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father,
The Prince of Peace.So we see that God revealed himself
to Manoah, Samson's father.
Samson loved women and war. In his fleshly
desires, he chose heathen woman. He was breaking the law of God, for
all Israelites were commanded to marry within their tribe at that time.
Samson's fleshly foray with the ungodly led to his final defeat. We
don't know whether the parents failed in their teaching of this young
man or if the undisciplined life he followed was his own rebellion;
either way it was a disaster.
The Philistines were determined to learn
the source of his great strength. They used Delilah to find the answer.
Samson was foolish in that he gave hints. (If captured by the enemy,
today's military are required to give only their birth date, rank and
serial number). Any other information will lead the enemy to use subterfuge
to get more information. Delilah revealed Samson's secret and he found
himself shorn and weak. The story ends in victory, though blinded, yet
in prison his hair and beard grew and his strength returned. They called
for Samson to make fun of him and the lad led him to the central pillars
of the feast hall and in his death he killed more Philistines than he
had killed in life.
Judges 16:30-31
And Samson said, Let me die with the Philistines. And he bowed himself
with all his might; and the house fell upon the lords, and upon all
the people that were therein. So the dead which he slew at his death
were more than they which he slew in his life.
[31] Then his brethren and all the house of his father came down, and
took him, and brought him up, and buried him between Zorah and Eshtaol
in the burying place of Manoah his father. And he judged Israel twenty
years.
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May 20th
Ruth -
An Unshakable Faith
Ruth 4:13-17
Ruth is an unusual woman. We read that
she leaves her family and her people in order to follow her mother-in-law,
Naomi. Naomi, her husband, and her sons left Israel during a famine in order
to try to get by. In a foreign land, Naomi's husband and sons die. Without
a doubt, this experience is very hard. Naomi does not want to be a burden
to her daughters-in-law and encourages them to return to their families.
Ruth refuses. She says, (Ruth 1:16,17) whither thou goest,
I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will
lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God: 17Where thou
diest, will I die, and there will I be buried:
the LORD do so to me, and more also, if ought but death part thee and
me. She has come to know God by faith, and has no desire to
return to her people and their ungodly ways.
As Ruth comes to Israel, the people notice her godly
character and life. She attends not only to her own needs, but also
to the needs of her mother-in-law. There is no indication
that in spite of the hardships and doubtful future, that she will do
anything other than follow the path of faith and righteousness.
Her godly character opens the hearts of her people to take care of her
needs. Naomi senses the opportunity and helps Ruth to provide for their
needs.
Think of it. Ruth was not raised in a
godly culture. The example provided for Ruth by Naomi's family was not
all that good, however, she came to know God and she casts her lot with
her mother-in-law. We read of her testimony in Ruth 3:11. Here
we read, all the city of my people doth
know that thou art a virtuous woman. What was it that made such
a difference in her life? I think it is clear that she came to put her
trust in God. She was a woman of faith. When we consider her experience
in life, we might think that she would not believe. Yet, faith is not
a matter of experience, but the heart. We read about this in Hebrews
11:27. In this text, we read about one who,
endured, as seeing him who is invisible.
In other words, faithfulness flows from our relationship with God and
not our experience of blessing.
Ruth
4:13-17 So Boaz took Ruth, and she was his wife: and when
he went in unto her, the LORD gave her conception, and she bare a son.
[14] And the women said unto Naomi, Blessed be the LORD, which hath
not left thee this day without a kinsman, that his name may be famous
in Israel.
[15] And he shall be unto thee a restorer of thy life, and a nourisher
of thine old age: for thy daughter in law, which loveth thee, which
is better to thee than seven sons, hath born him.
[16] And Naomi took the child, and laid it in her bosom, and became
nurse unto it.
[17] And the women her neighbours gave it a name, saying, There is a
son born to Naomi; and they called his name Obed: he is the father of
Jesse, the father of David.
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May 21st
Elijah: The
Faithful Prophet
1 Kings 17-18
1 Kings 18:21 And Elijah came unto all the people, and said,
How long halt ye between two opinions? if the LORD be God, follow him: but if Baal, then follow
him. And the people answered him not a word.
Elijah was a mighty man of God and a
faithful prophet whom God used to deliver the Nation of Israel from
the false prophets of Baal and from the evil ruler Ahab and his even
more evil wife, Jezebel. She had slain many of the true prophets of
the Lord.
Elijah met with Ahab, according to God's
leading and they ended up having a stand off. Ahab sent for the children
of Israel and he gathered the 450
false prophets of Baal and 400 false prophets of Asherah
together. Then Elijah called out to the people and spoke an amazing
truth, "How long will you falter between two opinions?" He
called them to repentance and to follow the only true and living God,
Jehovah. But an interesting thing happened. "The people answered
him not a word." They were afraid of popular opinion, and they
were afraid of Jezebel. Does this sound like many folks today? They
will agree with whomever they are with for the sake of "Unity."
But sadly they do not stand for God and His Word. They are unstable
in all their ways, like the waves of the sea tossed to and fro.
Elijah then showed the people, Ahab and
Jezebel, who the Lord really is. As Elijah prayed, God answered and
the fire of the Lord burned up the sacrifice including the wood, the
stones, the dust, and the water. Then the people cried out and said,
"The Lord, He is God! The Lord, He is God!" It is not recorded
whether or not their hearts were turned that day, but God certainly
got their attention. Say, does God have your attention, and even more
importantly, does He have your heart? Can it be said of you, "How
long will you falter between two opinions?" May we decide today
to turn from our sin and follow and obey the Lord of Hosts, just as
Elijah the Faithful prophet showed the people.
Dear Jehovah God, the King of Kings and
the Lord of Lords, You alone are the God of Creation. Forgive us of
our complacency. Help us, O Lord to serve You alone and not to have
any other. Amen.
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May 22nd
Elijah's Faith
and the Chariot of Fire
1 Kings 17:1 through 2 Kings 2:1-12
Elijah means "My God is Jehovah"
and for all purposes, Elijah only shirked his responsibility one time.
That lapse of faith helps us to under-stand that this man was not superhuman,
but just like us. James 5:17 Elias was a man subject to like passions
as we are, and he prayed earnestly that it
might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the space of three
years and six months. You may ask when was that lapse of faith?
When Elijah flees from Jezebel as recorded in 1 Kings 19:1-18.
I am going to paraphrase this passage
and delete things to shorten the message from Jezebel and Elijah's trek
into the desert. King Ahab went home and told Queen Jezebel that the
prophets of Baal were slain by Elijah. She sent a note to Elijah and
told him that by tomorrow night, he too, would he dead. Elijah fled
to the Sinai desert and sat down under a juniper tree. He prayed that
God would take his life. As he slept, an angel came to him two times
and told him to arise and eat and drink what was prepared by the angel,
because he was going to be gone 40 days. In a vision, Elijah experienced
a windstorm, an earthquake, and a fire, but the Lord was not in them,
rather He was in a still small voice and gave Elijah instructions to
return to Israel. There were still seven
thousand faithful men in Israel, who had not bowed the knee
to Baal and you are not alone.
James tells us in 5:17-18 what a man of prayer Elijah really was, Elias was
a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly that
it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the space of three
years and six months. And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain
and the earth brought forth her fruit. Today, sad to say, it seems that
God's children have lost their confidence in the power of prayer and
the power of His Word. Let's get on our knees and send knee-mail to
the Throne of Grace and see what a nation on their knees will see what
God can do.
Elijah knew that his ministry was about
to end and he took Elisha, his successor,
across the River Jordan in preparation for Elijah's trip into outer
space, all the way to heaven. Elijah was the second space traveler to
go into outer space, far beyond all the galaxies the visible heavens
can boast. If Christ returns for His church in our life time, we'll
take the same trip.
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May 23rd
Elisha:
an Ambitious Faith
II Kings 2:13-15
Elisha had
an unusual opportunity. He had the opportunity to learn from one of
Israel's greatest prophets. Elijah
was an unusual prophet. Elijah's ministry was during a time of great
apostasy. It is hard to imagine a time more difficult than that of the
rule of Ahab and Jezebel. Yet, during this difficult time, Elijah stood
valiantly for the truth. As the nation gathered on Mt. Carmel, the truth was upheld in
a public and powerful way.
Many would have felt content just to
learn from Elijah, but not Elisha. In II
Kings 2:19, we read where Elijah says to Elisha,
Ask what I shall do for thee, before I be taken away from thee. And
Elisha said, I pray thee, let a double portion of
thy spirit be upon me. In other words, he wants to be better
and more effective than Elijah. He doesn't want to just follow in Elijah's
footsteps, he wants to surpass him. It is interesting to note that Elisha
has twice the number of miracles attributed to him as Elijah.
God often blesses us according to our
faith. If we believe Him for much, we receive much. If we believe Him
for little, we receive little. Sadly, many come not seeking much. Elisha is not like this. He desires great blessing.
We see the same principle in our Lord's ministry. As Jesus, Himself,
comes to his own country we read, (Matthew 13:58) he did
not many mighty works there because of their unbelief.
When it comes to Elisha's
life, his blessing was not limited by a lack of vision and faith. He
sought and found unusual blessing. Elijah, himself, says in response
to Elisha's request, (II Kings 2:10) Thou hast asked a hard thing! It is sad, but a great many
people seek great and hard things when it comes to things of this world,
but few seek great and hard things when it comes to faith. There are
not many examples in the Bible, where people sought some spiritual blessing
and did not find it, so long as they sought in faith. When we think
about this, we ought to ask ourselves every day, what is possible? What
am I willing to trust God to accomplish in my life? If we did this,
we might not lack because of a failure to seek.
II
Kings 2:13-15 And he
sent again a captain of the third fifty with his fifty. And the third
captain of fifty went up, and came and fell on his knees before Elijah,
and besought him, and said unto him, O man of God, I pray thee, let
my life, and the life of these fifty thy servants, be precious in thy
sight.
[14] Behold, there came fire down from heaven, and burnt up the two
captains of the former fifties with their fifties: therefore let my
life now be precious in thy sight.
[15] And the angel of the LORD said unto Elijah, Go down with him: be
not afraid of him. And he arose, and went down with him unto the king.
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May 24th
Ezra: Building
the Second Temple and Reading the Book
Ezra 7
Faithful Ezra, who was a 16th generation
grandson of Aaron, Moses' brother, was a faithful scribe and was skilled
in the Law of Moses, the Pentateuch, the first 5 books of the Old Testament.
In fact, tradition has it that he had the law memorized and could write
it from memory. The scriptures record for us a very special statement
about Ezra in Ezra 7:6 the hand of the Lord his God upon him.
Also it is recorded, Ezra 7:10 For Ezra had prepared his heart to seek the law
of the LORD, and to do it, and to teach in Israel statutes and judgments.
We need to understand that Ezra was leading
the 2nd of 3 waves of the people of Israel back to Judah after being in captivity
for 70 years. Ezra's role as a scribe was critical to reinstate the
nation of Israel since the leaders had to
go back to the law and interpret it. This was a huge task because many
aspects of life had changed in the 1000 years since the law was first
given. The first temple of Solomon had been destroyed and so
the foundation for the second temple had been laid, with the temple
being rebuilt, even though it was a lot smaller. The Babylonian King,
Artaxerxes (the same king that Daniel served under),
gave Ezra a decree, upon Ezra's request, to go back to Jerusalem and reinstate the godly
leadership as God led him.
The lessons for us today are the same
as what Ezra had determined to do in Ezra 7:10; to seek, to do, and
to teach. The pattern of Ezra's preparation is one that we should seek
after. He studied God's Word before he attempted to live a life of obedience,
and he studied and practiced God's Word in his own life before he opened
his mouth to teach it. Finally, the success of Ezra's leadership did
not come from his own strength alone, rather
it was because the good hand of the Lord was upon him! Evaluation time!
Where do we stand today as leaders of our families and leaders of God's
people? Do we know God's Word as we ought? Have we studied to show ourselves
approved unto God? Ezra did and God blessed and used him in a mighty
way!
Dear Lord God, Thank You for the example
of Faithful Ezra. Please forgive us for not studying Your Word as we
should. Help us to follow the example of Ezra and live obediently for
You. Amen.
Ezra.7
[1] Now after these things, in the reign of Artaxerxes king of Persia,
Ezra the son of Seraiah, the son of Azariah, the son of Hilkiah,
[2] The son of Shallum, the son of Zadok, the son of Ahitub,
[3] The son of Amariah, the son of Azariah, the son of Meraioth,
[4] The son of Zerahiah, the son of Uzzi, the son of Bukki,
[5] The son of Abishua, the son of Phinehas, the son of Eleazar, the
son of Aaron the chief priest:
[6] This Ezra went up from Babylon; and he was a ready scribe in the
law of Moses, which the LORD God of Israel had given: and the king granted
him all his request, according to the hand of the LORD his God upon
him.
[7] And there went up some of the children of Israel, and of the priests,
and the Levites, and the singers, and the porters, and the Nethinims,
unto Jerusalem, in the seventh year of Artaxerxes the king.
[8] And he came to Jerusalem in the fifth month, which was in the seventh
year of the king.
[9] For upon the first day of the first month began he to go up from
Babylon, and on the first day of the fifth month came he to Jerusalem,
according to the good hand of his God upon him.
[10] For Ezra had prepared his heart to seek the law of the LORD, and
to do it, and to teach in Israel statutes and judgments.
[11] Now this is the copy of the letter that the king Artaxerxes gave
unto Ezra the priest, the scribe, even a scribe of the words of the
commandments of the LORD, and of his statutes to Israel.
[12] Artaxerxes, king of kings, unto Ezra the priest, a scribe of the
law of the God of heaven, perfect peace, and at such a time.
[13] I make a decree, that all they of the people of Israel, and of
his priests and Levites, in my realm, which are minded of their own
freewill to go up to Jerusalem, go with thee.
[14] Forasmuch as thou art sent of the king, and of his seven counsellers,
to inquire concerning Judah and Jerusalem, according to the law of thy
God which is in thine hand;
[15] And to carry the silver and gold, which the king and his counsellers
have freely offered unto the God of Israel, whose habitation is in Jerusalem,
[16] And all the silver and gold that thou canst find in all the province
of Babylon, with the freewill offering of the people, and of the priests,
offering willingly for the house of their God which is in Jerusalem:
[17] That thou mayest buy speedily with this money bullocks, rams, lambs,
with their meat offerings and their drink offerings, and offer them
upon the altar of the house of your God which is in Jerusalem.
[18] And whatsoever shall seem good to thee, and to thy brethren, to
do with the rest of the silver and the gold, that do after the will
of your God.
[19] The vessels also that are given thee for the service of the house
of thy God, those deliver thou before the God of Jerusalem.
[20] And whatsoever more shall be needful for the house of thy God,
which thou shalt have occasion to bestow, bestow it out of the king's
treasure house.
[21] And I, even I Artaxerxes the king, do make a decree to all the
treasurers which are beyond the river, that whatsoever Ezra the priest,
the scribe of the law of the God of heaven, shall require of you, it
be done speedily,
[22] Unto an hundred talents of silver, and to an hundred measures of
wheat, and to an hundred baths of wine, and to an hundred baths of oil,
and salt without prescribing how much.
[23] Whatsoever is commanded by the God of heaven, let it be diligently
done for the house of the God of heaven: for why should there be wrath
against the realm of the king and his sons?
[24] Also we certify you, that touching any of the priests and Levites,
singers, porters, Nethinims, or ministers of this house of God, it shall
not be lawful to impose toll, tribute, or custom, upon them.
[25] And thou, Ezra, after the wisdom of thy God, that is in thine hand,
set magistrates and judges, which may judge all the people that are
beyond the river, all such as know the laws of thy God; and teach ye
them that know them not.
[26] And whosoever will not do the law of thy God, and the law of the
king, let judgment be executed speedily upon him, whether it be unto
death, or to banishment, or to confiscation of goods, or to imprisonment.
[27] Blessed be the LORD God of our fathers, which hath put such a thing
as this in the king's heart, to beautify the house of the LORD which
is in Jerusalem:
[28] And hath extended mercy unto me before the king, and his counsellers,
and before all the king's mighty princes. And I was strengthened as
the hand of the LORD my God was upon me, and I gathered together out
of Israel chief men to go up with me.
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25th
Nehemiah the
Faithful Cup Bearer
Nehemiah 2 and following
Nehemiah was of the tribe of Judah. He may have been born in
Persia. The only reason we say
that is because he may have been a youth when he was attached to the
royal court where his appearance and personal discipline led him to
a very select position as the cup bearer to King Artaxerxes,
the Persian ruler. This position gave him access to all royal functions
where liquids were served to the King and Queen. His main job was to
taste the liquid in the cup in the presence of the king and if it had
no evil affects on Nehemiah, the king knew it was safe for him to drink.
We don't know how long he served in this capacity, but one day his brother,
Hanani, returned from Jerusalem and told Nehemiah of the
conditions of their home city and the destruction of the walls and the
Temple. Nehemiah was appalled with
this report.
Nehemiah spent days and nights in fasting
and prayer, so much so that the king noticed the haggard look on Nehemiah's
face and questioned him as to why? Nehemiah sent up a quickie prayer
to heaven and then revealed his heart to the King. The king had compassion
and told Nehemiah to prepare for a journey to Jerusalem and assess the damage and
make the repairs. Nehemiah asked for letters to the satraps, (governors)
of the provinces between Susa and Jerusalem. These letters were given
and also many soldiers were given to Nehemiah so that he might have
a safe journey.
When our hero arrived, he was in deep
despair at the condition of the city and went out at night and surveyed
the walls and the city, telling no one of his mission. When he had completed
the survey and determined the men and materials to rebuild the walls,
he then made known his intentions and in little more than seven, short
weeks, the walls were repaired. There was much opposition both in the
city and the surrounding area, but this did not keep Nehemiah from doing
the job he had returned home to do. Nehemiah had determination and allowed
nothing to stop his mission. This is the kind of determination needed
in governmental leaders in this day of vacillation and passing the buck.
We need leaders in the church and government who have a divine mission
and will let nothing turn them from their conquest. Remember to pray
for our President and service people every day!
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May 26th
Esther -
Courageous Faith
Esther 4:13-17
History tells us that the king that Esther
married was a very unpredictable and volatile character. It was not
an easy thing for her to put her neck on the line, but she did. Before
she went down an important and dangerous path, she wanted God's people
to fast and pray. From the historical record of this king, her concerns
for her safety were very reasonable. Yet, she recognized her opportunity,
and the responsibility that went along with it. She purposed in her
heart to do right in spite of what might happen. In Esther 4:16,
we read her heart in the matter. She said, if I perish, I
perish.
It is clear from the Biblical record,
that God set the nation of Israel apart from all people on
this earth to be the special recipient of His love and blessing. So,
also the enemy has chosen Israel to be a special recipient
of hate. At this time, an organized government effort was launched to
exterminate the Jewish people. Adolf Hitler
went down a similar path. The day is coming when the Antichrist will
launch a similar effort. In each case, God will deliver His people from
the hand of the enemy. Hitler's effort resulted in the physical rebirth
of the nation. Antichrist's effort will result in the spiritual rebirth
of the nation.
In other words, the enemy has a very
hateful and destructive purpose, but God is able to take evil and bring
something good out of it. Esther's uncle asks a very thought provoking
question that is never directly answered in this book. Mordecai says
to Esther, (Esther 4:14) who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such
a time as this? In effect, he says God may have brought you into
the kings harem in order to save His people,
Israel. God uses this whole situation
to bring blessing to His people. Mordecai becomes one of the kings key advisors and comes up with a creative plan
to save the Jews. According to the kings decree
which could not be changed, the enemies of the Jews were given authority
to kill them and take their property on a certain day. Mordecai's plan
is to allow the Jews to defend themselves. This plan works very well,
but was made possible by Esther's courageous faith. The path of faith
is not easy. It demands courage.
Esther
4:13-17 Then Mordecai commanded to answer Esther, Think
not with thyself that thou shalt escape in the king's house, more than
all the Jews.
[14] For if thou altogether holdest thy peace at this time, then shall
there enlargement and deliverance arise to the Jews from another place;
but thou and thy father's house shall be destroyed: and who knoweth
whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this?
[15] Then Esther bade them return Mordecai this answer,
[16] Go, gather together all the Jews that are present in Shushan, and
fast ye for me, and neither eat nor drink three days, night or day:
I also and my maidens will fast likewise; and so will I go in unto the
king, which is not according to the law: and if I perish, I perish.
[17] So Mordecai went his way, and did according to all that Esther
had commanded him.
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May 27th
Mordecai:
A Faithful Jew in a Foreign Land
Esther 9, 10
Today we see God's providence at work
in a man who was among the fourth generation of deported Jews. Mordecai's
great grandfather Kish, had actually experienced
the Babylonian deportation to Babylon. Kish represents a Benjamite family name that could be traced back (1100
B.C.) to Saul's father in 1 Samuel 9:1. Mordecai had brought
up Hadassah as his own daughter, (Esther) who was his uncle's daughter,
as her father and mother had died. Mordecai was a faithful man of God
and stood for truth and for righteousness.
First we see that he is used of God to
bring Esther to become Queen to King Ahasuerus
for the purpose of preserving the nation of Israel. Then we see that Faithful
Mordecai discovers a plot against the king while he was at the gate
to the city. Thirdly, we see that an evil and satanically controlled
man, Haman, who was conspiring to kill the
Jewish nation. Through Mordecai's Faithfulness and Queen Esther's courage,
the king discovers the evil intentions of Haman and he is hanged on the gallows that he had
personally built to hang the Jews on. The faithfulness of Mordecai and
his godly integrity stood up for God's truth and ultimately he was recognized
by the king as a great man. He was given a place of honor and he became
2nd in the land under the king. His faithfulness to God preserved the
nation of Israel.
What lessons can we glean from Faithful
Mordecai? First, we need to be saved; we need to know Christ as Savior.
Secondly, we need to be men and women who will serve obediently and
faithfully, ready to complete the tasks that God has for us. Thirdly,
we need to be people of integrity and stand for truth and righteousness
in the face of great tribulation even at the cost of our lives. If we
are willing to faithfully serve the Lord in the same way as Mordecai,
we will be prepared to do whatever the Lord has in store for us, witnessing
of His great love and salvation, and serving even to the preservation
of His chosen people! May God's Name be lifted on High!
O Gracious Savior, we praise You and
thank You for Your great Salvation. Thank You for the example of Mordecai
and how You used his faithfulness. Father we desire to serve You faithfully,
too. Amen.
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May 28th
Job the Defender
of the Faith and Defeat of Satan
Job 1 & 2 & 19:25-27
Job is one of the great hero's of the
faith as recorded all through the book. It is certain that Job lived
before the giving of the Law, because are no references to Jewish rites,
manners, customs, religious ceremonies, priesthood, festivals, feasts,
Sabbaths, or anything commanded by Moses. There is no question that
the relationship Job had with God was comparable to that of Abraham,
Isaac and Jacob. Job was the priest in the family and offered sacrifices
for the family as recorded in Job 1:4-5And his sons went and feasted
in their houses, every one his day; and sent and called for their three
sisters to eat and to drink with them. And it was so, when the days
of their feasting were gone about, that Job sent and sanctified them,
and rose up early in the morning, and offered burnt offerings according
to the number of them all: for Job said, It may be that my sons have
sinned, and cursed God in their hearts. Thus did Job continually.
If ever there was an example for us to follow in our prayers for our
family, it is here. He brought his seven sons and three daughters before
the Lord daily.
The next picture is of Satan telling
God that God had a hedge about Job and if it were removed, Job would
curse God as other men did. Faith was put to the test and WON! Believer's
spiritual integrity is put to the test many times each day. How do we
respond to it? Do we blow up at the slightest offense, or do we pray
for the one offending us. Are there times when your children would rather
be in church than at home? Does the same thing apply to your spouse
or friends? Job did not lose his integrity when his three friends accused
him of being a great sinner. He refused to acquiesce to his wife when
his body was covered from head to foot with boils. InJob 2:9 Then said his wife unto him, Dost thou still retain thine
integrity? curse God, and die.
Lastly, Job believed in life after death;
Job 19:26 And though after my skin
worms destroy this body, yet in my flesh shall I see God. Not just spiritual life,
but physical life also. He may not have understood what we know about
the glorified body from the New Testament, but he was convinced that
he would see God in his body. He believed in a resurrection from the
grave even as we do.
Job 19:25-27 It is drawn, and cometh out of the body;
yea, the glittering sword cometh out of his gall: terrors are upon him.
[26] All darkness shall be hid in his secret places: a fire not blown
shall consume him; it shall go ill with him that is left in his tabernacle.
[27] The heaven shall reveal his iniquity; and the earth shall rise
up against him.
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May 29th
David -
A Heart of Faith
Psalm 51
David was a good man. We read in God's
Word that he was a man after the heart of God. He was a passionate man.
As he goes down to the battle, he is troubled to hear Goliath speak
against God and against Israel. His heart is stirred to
act and he does. He loves God and he loves the people. We see this throughout
his life. Sadly, his passions not only lead to great victories, but
to great defeats.
We find him giving way to pride and numbering
the nation. Even worse, we find him giving way to adultery and murder.
Giving way to unbridled passion is dangerous; however, love is not void
of feeling. Therefore, without the right kind of passion, there can
be no righteousness. Indeed, love involves the deepest of feelings.
With our limited understanding, truth and love seem to be at odds. There
is ever a tendency to compromise truth because of love and compassion
for others. Likewise, there is a tendency to not feel love and compassion
for others as we uphold the truth. If our understanding were perfect,
we would know that there is no love where the truth is compromised,
and there is no truth without the deepest compassion and love.
As David repents of his sin, he says
some very profound things. For example, we read Psalm 51:6 thou desirest
truth in the inward parts: and in the hidden part thou shalt make me to know wisdom. David does not
see his failure as a foolish indiscretion. He sees it as rooted to the
very core of his being. Therefore, he prays, (Psalm 51:10) Create
in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right
spirit within me. His problem is his heart and spirit. His heart
and spirit are corrupt. What can he do? Some people think giving God
something will correct the problem. It will not. We read in Psalm
51:17,where
he says, the sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and
a contrite heart. In other words, before the problem can be
solved, he must feel the weight of his own sin and evil. It is only
then that he will find real repentance. He needs to love God and others.
He needs to love the truth. If these feelings are right in light of
his sin, his heart and spirit will be broken. Say, have you ever been
broken over your own sin? This is the first step to salvation.
Pss.51
[1] Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness: according
unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions.
[2] Wash me throughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin.
[3] For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me.
[4] Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in thy
sight: that thou mightest be justified when thou speakest, and be clear
when thou judgest.
[5] Behold, I was shapen in iniquity; and in sin did my mother conceive
me.
[6] Behold, thou desirest truth in the inward parts: and in the hidden
part thou shalt make me to know wisdom.
[7] Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: wash me, and I shall
be whiter than snow.
[8] Make me to hear joy and gladness; that the bones which thou hast
broken may rejoice.
[9] Hide thy face from my sins, and blot out all mine iniquities.
[10] Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within
me.
[11] Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy holy spirit
from me.
[12] Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy
free spirit.
[13] Then will I teach transgressors thy ways; and sinners shall be
converted unto thee.
[14] Deliver me from bloodguiltiness, O God, thou God of my salvation:
and my tongue shall sing aloud of thy righteousness.
[15] O Lord, open thou my lips; and my mouth shall shew forth thy praise.
[16] For thou desirest not sacrifice; else would I give it: thou delightest
not in burnt offering.
[17] The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite
heart, O God, thou wilt not despise.
[18] Do good in thy good pleasure unto Zion: build thou the walls of
Jerusalem.
[19] Then shalt thou be pleased with the sacrifices of righteousness,
with burnt offering and whole burnt offering: then shall they offer
bullocks upon thine altar.
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May
30th
Daniel: Faith Unquestioned
Daniel 1
This record of Daniel in 605 B.C. who's
name means, "God is my Judge," is one that stands alone of
a young man that loved the Lord his God with all his heart and with
all his soul and with all his might. Here is a teen-ager who was about
15 years old, who had been taken captive and taken away from his family
and friends and country, into Babylonian culture for the task of assisting
in dealing with the imported Jews. Here we see a young man who purposed
to serve the Lord faithfully with his life and as we read the whole
account of Daniel, we find that he was also a man of faithful daily
prayer. He spent the rest of his life in Babylon
(85 plus years) and he made the most of his exile, successfully exalting
God by his character and his service. He quickly rose to the role of
statesman by official royal appointment and served as a confidante of
kings, as well as, a prophet of God in the two world empires of the
Babylonians and the Medo-Persians.
Can we place ourselves into the shoes
of this young man of God today? What would we have done if we had been
the one who was kidnapped away from our family and country and taken
to serve in a foreign land under a pagan king? The answer is pretty
simple. We probably would not have been people of Faith as this young
man was. Would we have chosen to serve God regardless of the circumstances?
Again the answer is pretty simple. We more than likely would have failed
here, too. Lastly, would we have been men and women of prayer as Daniel
was? This is the whole key to Daniel's great life! He was a man of prayer.
He prayed faithfully day in and day out. He was even cast into the den
of lions because he prayed to God Almighty and would not stop. He passionately
remembered his home, particularly the temple at Jerusalem,
almost 70 years later after having been taken from it. Oh, that we could
learn this most important lesson. We need to be Christians who pray!
2 Chronicles 7:14
gives us the reason. If my people, which are called by my name,
shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their
wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin,
and will heal their land.
Dear Lord God, we are truly humbled by
this faithful man Daniel. Forgive us of our sin of lack of prayer. Help
us Dear Lord to be faithful to pray without ceasing! We Love You!
Dan.1
[1] In the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim king of Judah came Nebuchadnezzar
king of Babylon unto Jerusalem, and besieged it.
[2] And the Lord gave Jehoiakim king of Judah into his hand, with part
of the vessels of the house of God: which he carried into the land of
Shinar to the house of his god; and he brought the vessels into the
treasure house of his god.
[3] And the king spake unto Ashpenaz the master of his eunuchs, that
he should bring certain of the children of Israel, and of the king's
seed, and of the princes;
[4] Children in whom was no blemish, but well favoured, and skilful
in all wisdom, and cunning in knowledge, and understanding science,
and such as had ability in them to stand in the king's palace, and whom
they might teach the learning and the tongue of the Chaldeans.
[5] And the king appointed them a daily provision of the king's meat,
and of the wine which he drank: so nourishing them three years, that
at the end thereof they might stand before the king.
[6] Now among these were of the children of Judah, Daniel, Hananiah,
Mishael, and Azariah:
[7] Unto whom the prince of the eunuchs gave names: for he gave unto
Daniel the name of Belteshazzar; and to Hananiah, of Shadrach; and to
Mishael, of Meshach; and to Azariah, of Abed-nego.
[8] But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself
with the portion of the king's meat, nor with the wine which he drank:
therefore he requested of the prince of the eunuchs that he might not
defile himself.
[9] Now God had brought Daniel into favour and tender love with the
prince of the eunuchs.
[10] And the prince of the eunuchs said unto Daniel, I fear my lord
the king, who hath appointed your meat and your drink: for why should
he see your faces worse liking than the children which are of your sort?
then shall ye make me endanger my head to the king.
[11] Then said Daniel to Melzar, whom the prince of the eunuchs had
set over Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah,
[12] Prove thy servants, I beseech thee, ten days; and let them give
us pulse to eat, and water to drink.
[13] Then let our countenances be looked upon before thee, and the countenance
of the children that eat of the portion of the king's meat: and as thou
seest, deal with thy servants.
[14] So he consented to them in this matter, and proved them ten days.
[15] And at the end of ten days their countenances appeared fairer and
fatter in flesh than all the children which did eat the portion of the
king's meat.
[16] Thus Melzar took away the portion of their meat, and the wine that
they should drink; and gave them pulse.
[17] As for these four children, God gave them knowledge and skill in
all learning and wisdom: and Daniel had understanding in all visions
and dreams.
[18] Now at the end of the days that the king had said he should bring
them in, then the prince of the eunuchs brought them in before Nebuchadnezzar.
[19] And the king communed with them; and among them all was found none
like Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah: therefore stood they before
the king.
[20] And in all matters of wisdom and understanding, that the king inquired
of them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and astrologers
that were in all his realm.
[21] And Daniel continued even unto the first year of king Cyrus.
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May 31st
Jonah's Lapse
of Faith and Bitterness
The Book of Jonah 1- 4
Jonah was called of God to go to Nineveh to preach repentance of
their sins or perish, but he bought a one-way ticket to Tarshish. He went in the wrong direction. Jonah's
mind was changed by a series of events that none of us would want to
go through. God uses circumstances to turn us around just as He did
to Jonah. Most of those reading this devotional can look back and see
where God used events or circumstances to turn them in the right direction.
There was a vicious storm; pagan sailors praying to their pagan gods
and all to no avail. Lots were drawn and Jonah was the one with whom
God was angry. The sailors tried to avoid the sinking of the ship by
casting overboard the freight they were carrying. They were trying to
save themselves by works. Finally, in desperation they cast Jonah into
the sea, but God prepared a great fish to ferry Jonah to the shore from
whence he set out, and Jonah hotfooted it to Nineveh.
He preached and they responded from the
beggar to the king. A great revival was born in that wicked city and
God spared them from the destruction he had promised if they did not
repent. The mercies of God are from eternity past to eternity future.
Jonah should have learned his lesson, but when they repented Jonah was
again disobedient to the Lord's calling and angry because God did not
destroy Nineveh. Jonah should have been
rejoicing over sinners repenting and turning to God (the angels do),
but not Jonah.
Jonah watched the Lord bless the city
and he went out on a hill and sat down and had a pity party. Jonah
4:2-3 And he prayed unto the LORD, and said, I pray thee, O LORD,
was not this my saying, when I was yet in my country? Therefore I fled
before unto Tarshish: for I knew that thou
art a gracious God, and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness,
and repentest thee of the evil. Therefore
now, O LORD, take, I beseech thee, my life from me; for it is better
for me to die than to live.
Something good came from Jonah; he was
in the fish 3 days and nights. This is a picture of our Lord's time
in the tomb and a sign to the Jews and to us. All born again Christians,
both living and dead, shall be resurrected to eternal life. Are you
looking forward to that day?
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