Redeemed

1 PETER 1:13 - 2:10

(November 23)

Do you remember the day you accepted Christ as your Savior? What details stand out in your mind about that day? Can you remember the joy you felt? Who was there to rejoice with you?

It was at that moment your life changed for the better. Because of this, it required some change in the way you act and react. You became a follower of Christ, which came with expectations in the way you live.

In 1 Peter, we are reminded that as followers of Christ we have to exercise self-control and live in obedience. Our old ways of living, in which we satisfied our own desires, should become a thing of the past, because now you "know better."

In our moment of salvation, we are REDEEMED. The word "redeemed" comes from a Greek word that means "to buy back from bondage." We are no longer caught in the bondage of our sins but are bought with the blood of Christ through the grace of God. This redemption covers our past, our present, and our future. We will continue to be redeemed until we reach our eternal place in heaven.

Because of this, those old behaviors need to be gone. No longer should we practice deceit, hypocrisy, jealousy, or unkind speech. God is using each of us to build his spiritual temple because we are his chosen people, his very own possession.

Peter talks about God's spiritual house. He portrays the church as a living, spiritual house, with Christ as the foundation and cornerstone and each believer a stone. If you remember, Christ told him, "You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it." (Matthew 16:16-18)

Christ is the stone that really counts in building the church. He is "the stone that causes men to stumble and a rock that makes them fall." Why? Because some will stumble over Christ, rejecting him or refusing to believe he is who he says he is. Those who reject and refuse will not be redeemed.

What an honor it is to take the goodness of God and share it with others, letting them know that you have been REDEEMED and they can be REDEEMED to a life in Christ alongside you.REDEEMED

Shut the Front Door

One Year Bible: November 23

Ezekiel 45:13-46:24

“Shut the Front Door”

One of the most watched shows in our home is anything with Guy Fieri in it! Our daughter loves “All things Food!” We are fans of Guy’s Grocery Games, Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives. We love to travel with our tastebuds!

One of Guy’s most famous sayings ever is, “Shut the Front Door!”

Now, in “Guy Dictionary” what this means is “I Can’t Even”...

This compliment is reserved for times when he is truly stunned by how tasty, insane, or outrageous the food is before him.

Today’s story is definitely a literal and spiritual “Shut the Front Door” moment. You will soon see what I mean by this…

Do you remember how at the end of yesterday’s message we ended with God sealing the East Gate? He said, “This gate shall be shut, it shall not be opened, and no man shall enter in by it; because the LORD, the God of Israel, hath entered it, therefore it shall be shut.” (Ez. 44: 1-2)

God’s presence had sanctified this gate and it was closed until the prince enters through it, but who will this prince be and when will this occur?

“It is for the PRINCE; the prince, he shall sit in it to eat bread before the LORD: he shall enter by the way of the porch of that gate, and shall go out by the way of the same.” (44:1-3)

Our first guess might be that it is Jesus, but there is more to the story…

In Ezekiel 45:22 we are given more details about this prince. They help us see a more complete picture. The prince will offer a sin offering for himself (45:22), have children (46:16), and possess an allotment of land in Israel (46:18). None of these descriptions point to Christ.

“This is what the Sovereign LORD says: “If the prince gives a gift of land to one of his sons as his inheritance, it will belong to him and his descendants forever. But, if the prince gives a gift of land from his inheritance to one of his servants, the servant may keep it only until the Year of Jubilee, which comes every fiftieth year. At that time the land WILL RETURN to the prince. But when the prince gives gifts to his sons, those gifts will be permanent.” (46:16-17)

King David. Jubilee. Passover…How do all of these things tie together with the prince?

We have heard over and over about King David and how the Messiah will come out of his lineage and his kingdom will never end, but what does this really mean?

Many a scholar will tell you that God is going to “connect all the dots” for the nation of Israel.

They will see, hear, smell, touch, and understand the entire hidden mystery revealed in Jesus Christ and they may very well have it introduced to them through King David, the prince.

Wouldn't that be an amazing dramatic pause as the East Gate opens?

Here is what we do know about this, “I, the LORD, will be their God, and my servant David will be a prince forever.” (34:24)

“My servant David will be king over them… and he will be their prince forever.” (37:24-25)

As David tore off his royal robes and worshipped with all of his might to lead God’s people joyfully into the Temple of God, how amazing would it be for him to lead his people back into the temple once again to see the fulfillment of that worship in Jesus?

There is a lot to contemplate about this possibility as David was considered the TYPE of CHRIST. This means that his life pointed to JESUS and foreshadowed his coming. The amazing conclusion could be the fulfillment of this Foreshadowing.

In any case, Ezekiel’s position after this glorious return of “The Shekinah Glory” was to fall facedown and worship as the Glory of the LORD once again filled this place.

In my younger days, I used to think that I never wanted to be around for the end times as things would be going downhill quickly and evil would be so rampant. Who would want to raise children in those awful days?

But, the longer I live I have changed my tune. Who wants to just die when you can behold the return of “The Shekinah Glory”, watch David dance, see God’s people fall on their knees and their blinders come off. Then again, If I am raptured before all of this I want a front row from the heavenlies.

All I really know is this, “Shut the Front Door” because this fulfillment of prophecy is going to be an “I CAN’T EVEN” describe MILLENNIAL MOMENT!

“When the Spirit of the LORD comes upon my heart I will dance like David danced…Let the heavens be glad, let the earth rejoice. Let the nations say, ‘The LORD reigns!”

(Dance Like David Danced, Joshua Aaron)

Surviving Persecution

SURVIVING PERSECUTION

1 PETER 1:1-12

(November 22)

Peter had a purpose for writing this letter. He wrote it specifically to new Christians and those planning to be baptized. He wanted them to know what opposition was ahead of them, and he hoped his words would encourage them through the persecution they would face.

Christians of that time had an unclear legal status. A lot of Romans still considered them part of the Jewish sect, and since the Jewish religion was considered legal, the Christian religion was also considered legal.

The Jews weren't too happy about being legally associated with the Christians. Sometimes they physically harmed them, drove them out of town, or got the Roman officials to turn on them. This persecution was hard on the Christians.

Some were also persecuted by their own families. Roman law was that the man was the head of the household and the authority over the family. If a wife and children were believers but the husband was not, they often experienced great hardship in their own homes. Sometimes they were sent away, with nowhere to turn but to the church. If they were beaten, the courts would not defend them.

Peter wants to assure these Christians that, even though they are going through persecution, there is joy ahead when they keep their faith and endure what is coming against them. Their faith will continue to strengthen and be refined, becoming far more precious than mere gold.

He speaks of the "Spirit of Christ". This is another name for the Holy Spirit, which Jesus promised to send to his followers before he left this earth. This spirit is to be our teacher, helper, counselor, and guide. It is this Spirit that would help those believers survive persecution and receive the glory and honor promised to all who believe and put their faith in Christ.

What things are you being asked to stand strong against? What persecutions are you enduring? Are you letting the Spirit of Christ guide you through the trials? Are you putting your faith in Christ and waiting in joyful anticipation for the glory to come?

I can't imagine walking through the valleys of this life without my guide, my compass, my Jesus. We were not meant to walk through life alone. We were meant to take every step with our Savior whose final destination for all of us in in glory with him for all eternity.

Grab his hand, take a step, and hold on. He will lead you through the fires you face and bring you into joy and peace.

Shekinah Glory

One Year Bible: November 22

Ezekiel 44:1-45:12

Shekinah Glory

“Oh, the glory of Your presence. We Your Temple give you reverence.

Come and rise from Your rest and be blessed by our praise. As we glory in Your Embrace. As Your presence, now fills this place.” (Oh the Glory of Your Presence, Ron Kenoly)

Have you ever returned to a room of a loved one where their things remained, but their presence was absent?

We often visited my Mother-in-law’s place during the years after my father-in-law had passed away. We would stay in her guest rooms and the closets would be filled with his shirts, jackets, and other belongings. In her bedroom was a large poster of him in his fireman’s uniform. We would then go out to the garage where his military uniform hung on a rack.

She could not let go of his things, because they reminded her of his presence!

The Jewish people had nothing left to hold onto. Their once bright and shining temple had been decimated and would never be a shadow of the “GLORY” that it once had been…

Or would it?

We think of a Temple as a museum, memorial, or distant memory. But to God’s people, it had been LIFE ITSELF… until God’s presence left the building!

Can you imagine the “Glory Days” when King David danced with all his might and the smell of the meat being offered lofted like the best bar-b-que in the land? It was a feast of offerings to the brightest presence imaginable. This was the place of the Miracle of Miracles!

But, no more. Sadly, no more…

As we think about the millennial temple, we need to understand that in the last days of Solomon, the “Shekinah Glory”, the very palpable presence of God, was ABSENT!

The Jewish rabbis coined this phrase, “Shekinah Glory” from a Hebrew word that means “He caused to dwell.”

This was first present when the Israelites set out to escape from Egypt. The Lord appeared to them in a cloudy pillar by day and a fiery pillar by night. (Ex. 13:20-22) He was ALWAYS present and DWELLING with them. He fed them, guided them, and did the Miracle of Miracles.

His presence was not just felt by the Israelites. The Egyptians got a pretty good peak at it also. In fact, it says that “it threw them into confusion.” His presence alone was enough to defer their enemies and provide them the protection they needed.

What is a Temple without Majesty, Power, and Presence? It is a museum or rubble…

The story was never going to end like this, however1 Why? The Father always goes out to search for his lost son. What is lost will be found. That is the story of the Prodigal son and the Jews certainly fulfilled every inch of that story.

During the millennial reign, the father will welcome his wayward back HOME, with His Presence. He has not been missing, He has been out searching for the lost and providing their freedom and ransom to return to HIM.

He OPENS THE DOOR to them by SHUTTING the GATE!

Listen to HIS arrival… “Suddenly, the glory of the God of Israel appeared from the east. The sound of his coming was like THE ROAR OF RUSHING WATERS, and the whole landscape shone with his glory… I fell face down on the ground. And the glory of the LORD came into the Temple through the EAST gateway.” (43: 2-4)

When Jesus came to Bethlehem more than nineteen hundred years ago, the GLORY of God was on full display. The angels sang, the shepherds and Wisemen came and the star was fully shining. But the Jews had missed that the long-awaited king would not come as a king as they had thought, but rather a humble child.

On Christ’s return to reign in the millennial Temple the presence of His “Shekinah Glory” will not be missed! God will come back to find his prodigal son.

Why will there be sacrifices at the altar at this time after there has already been the perfect sacrifice of the lamb?

In their own language, through all of their familiar practices, they will see the object of the burnt offering, the sin offering, and the trespass offering. They will look afresh upon the work of Christ on the cross and see the fulfillment of the message of grace.

In Ezekiel 44 we then see that the gate which looks to the EAST is SHUT, and Ezekiel is told that “it shall not be opened, and no man shall enter in by it, because the LORD, the God of Israel, hath entered in by it, Therefore it shall be shut.” (44:1-3)

“The Shekinah Glory” has returned and the EAST GATE is SHUT… What prince may open it?

“Oh, the glory of Your presence. We Your Temple give you reverence…

As Your presence, now fills this place.” (Oh the Glory of Your Presence, Ron Kenoly)

Prayers of Endurance

Prayers of Endurance

James 5:1-20

(November 21)

Sometimes our faith requires that we have much endurance ... for the waiting, for the hardships, for growth we need. I don't know about you, but I struggle with patience. I have to pray often for it, and when it comes to enduring a battle of some kind, I really have to pray for that endurance.

What does God want me to do? How long must I go through this? Why am I going through the situation? For what reason is this hardship facing me?

All good questions. All unknowns until revealed by God himself. So, all I can do is wait ... and endure. The same goes for each of us.

James warns the wealthy that they will have troubles ahead, if their wealth has come from poor treatment of others. There will be much for them to endure:

Your wealth is rotting away, and your fine clothes are moth-eaten rages. Your gold and silver are corroded. The very wealth you were counting on will eat away your flesh like fire. This corroded treasure you have hoarded will testify against you on the day of judgment. (Verses2-3)

And what about the endurance of those the wealthy have condemned in order to possess such wealth? Who is he speaking of when he mentions the innocent people?

They were the defenseless poor laborers. When they couldn't pay their debts, they were jailed or forced to sell their possessions. Some even had to sell family members as slaves. Often, these people suffered and died of starvation. To God, this was murder. And it was the reason the wealthy would suffer.

James has a call to action for those who are suffering. He says they should pray. He has a call to action for those who are feeling happy. They are to sing praises. What about the sick? He suggests they have the elders of the church anoint them with oil and pray over them. Oil was used both as a medicine and a symbol of the Spirit of God.

Why would James suggest this prayer? You might think it was so that the sick person's faith could heal him. But that isn't what he meant. The "prayer of faith" he mentions in verse 15 is actually speaking about the faith of the ones praying, not the person being prayed over. It is their faith and trust that God hears. While God is the healer, not faith itself, he often waits to hear our prayers of faith before he intervenes.

Are you suffering a sickness, either physically or spiritually? Have you taken the step to have others anoint and pray for you? God hears those prayers, and they can make a huge difference.

James goes on to talk about confessing sins to one another, so that we can pray for each other to endure the sin and be healed from it. Never doubt for a moment that your righteous prayer isn't powerful. God uses them in a mighty way for his purpose.

He closes with the urging for us to keep an eye out for those who wander away from the truth, and to make every effort to bring them back. Those who do so will save a person from certain death and will help that person find forgiveness for their sins.

Yes, there is a lot to endure in this world. There are no promises that sin won't find us, or that sorrow will never cast a shadow on our doorstep. There is no assurance that pain won't find its way into our hearts. But there is the assurance that we can overcome any sin or any hardship that comes our way, with the help of other believers who will pray for us and lead us back to God. And with the prayers of endurance that help us make it through. Thank you, God, that you hear our prayers and answer.

Lost and Found

One Year Bible: November 21

Ezekiel 42:1-43:27

Lost & Found

What has been “LOST” from the original Temple in the new millennial Temple that ”The Measuring Man” is showing to Ezekiel through this vision?

What is “Found” that was not there before?

Then again, what remains the “SAME”?

Out of all of this splendor that is on display before Ezekiel to relay to the people, what is THE BASIC LAW OF THE TEMPLE?

“And this is the basic law of the Temple: ABSOLUTE HOLINESS! The entire top of the mountain where the Temple is built is HOLY. Yes, this is THE BASIC LAW OF THE TEMPLE.” (Ezekiel 43:12)

We dare not miss this FOUNDATIONAL, UNCHANGEABLE, UNMUTABLE declaration!

“These rooms that overlook the Temple from the north and south are HOLY.”.” (42:13)

This is where the priest sacrifices the sacred offerings--grain offerings, sin offerings, and guilt offerings. It is so HOLY that the priests were NOT to directly go to the outer courtyard. They were to first take OFF THE CLOTHES they wore ministering because these clothes are HOLY.” (42:14)

Do you remember when the priests were abusing this room for their own purposes? That was how low the respect for the temple had gone. Even God’s HOLY TEMPLE had been desecrated in HIS eyes. When God restores his Temple for a millennial reign, it won’t be like that at all! But, what will it be like exactly? What will be “LOST” from the original temple?

In chapters 41-42 we notice some OMISSIONS.

There is no VEIL in the millennial temple. This was the VEIL that was rent from top to bottom (IMPOSSIBLE except for God!) when Jesus died on the Cross. It had been the divider between God and man. It is no longer there in the millennial temple being described to Ezekiel.

There is no TABLE OF SHOWBREAD in the millennial temple either. Before Jesus died, he broke break with his disciples and said, “Take and eat, this is my body.” (Matthew 26:26)

There is no GOLDEN CANDLESTICK because we are told in Ezekiel that HIS GLORY will fill the whole world. There will be no need for artificial light as “The LIGHT OF THE WORLD HAS COME.”

What may be surprising and baffling to us as Christians, however, is what is to be found in the Millennial Temple.

In Ezekiel 40: 39-42 we see that the Mosaic system from the Old Testament will be restored with the levitical sacrifices of the burnt offering, sin offering, and the trespass offering.

Does this make sense to you?

Didn’t Jesus’ death on the cross nullify the need for animal sacrifices as he was the perfect lamb of God? Why would God take these people back to a system that could not save them?

Exactly! It was never SUPPOSED TO SAVE them! Those sacrifices were only to REMIND them of WHO will save them.

The Millennial REIGN will be for the purpose of RESTORING God’s chosen people and for them to understand the fulfillment of the Temple and the Throne of David…

Did you know that there is a replica of the Temple at the Holy Land Hotel in Jerusalem? They say that it is quite a large model, but it has something missing… THE ALTAR.

Isn’t that interesting?

They say that orthodox Jews are embarrassed by the altar, and liberal Jews want to get rid of it altogether.

When God’s Millenial reign comes, there WILL BE NO MISSING ALTAR! During that time, God’s people will learn… The REST OF THE STORY!

How profound that the boy, Jesus, had his first revealing in Jerusalem, at the Temple, at Passover. When he was twelve years old, he “schooled those old boys” while his parents thought he was missing. After three days, they found him in the temple courts sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions. Everyone was amazed at his understanding and answers. His own parents were astonished. (Luke 2:41-48)

In the Millenial Temple, there will be an ALTAR, a SON…the TRUE SACRIFICE.

What was LOST from the Temple will be RESTORED and those who are LOST will be FOUND…

Pride vs. Humility

Pride vs. Humility

JAMES 4:1-17

(November 20)

There is a tough fight that is fought in a person's mind and heart. Humility can be hard to achieve, especially when it requires you to surrender your own will for the sake of someone else's. This is not natural or easy for most of us. We really buy into that Burger King slogan: "Have it your way."

Jesus set for us the most stunning example of pride vs. humility in his complete surrender to God. When Satan showed him the world and offered it to him, he did not let pride make his decision. He stayed humble to his father.

When the sacrifice was terrifying, and his human emotions wanted nothing more than to find escape, his humble spirit said, "Not my will, but your will be done."

As James indicates in Chapter 4, wanting what you do not have and being jealous of others causes strife. When we are not at peace with ourselves, how can we be at peace with others?

"Yet you do not have because you do not ask. You ask and do not receive because you ask amiss, that you may spend it on your pleasures." (Verses 2-3)

God knows our hearts. He knows our intentions and motives. When pride is your motive, your request will not be honored. He answers according to his own will.

Submitting to God will cause the enemy to back off. When you place yourself under the authority of God, you receive his grace and promises. Walk away from the sin of pride. If we saw our sin the way God sees it, we would wail and mourn. But because of his grace, we are not left wailing and mourning. He lifts us out of that agony with his bountiful grace.

Another way pride rears its ugly head is by talking negatively about someone else. Have you ever had someone speak evil of you? That can hurt so much. Since most of us know how it feels, we should be careful not to do it to others. Slander is from the enemy, and judgement is very different from holding someone accountable.

Boasting is also prideful and demonstrates no humility. A proud and boastful person will tell you all about the great plans they have for this or that. It is all about what THEY are going to do. But a humble person will share their hopes and dreams and want them for themselves ONLY if it is God's will for their lives. We can all make plans, but God's will always prevails over anything we have planned. Our attitude should be, "Thy will be done."

It isn't easy. But the good things seldom are. If we want to win the battle of pride vs. humility, we have to start with surrendering to God and his will for our lives. When we let go and let God, great things will happen.

The Measuring Man

One Year Bible: November 20

Ezekiel 40:28-41:26

The Measuring Man

These are some of the measurements and mysteries that intrigue me in today’s Millennial Message….Four Corners. Three in One. Two Sticks. One Stone.

“The LORD took HOLD OF ME. In a vision from God, he took me to the land of Israel and set me down on a very high mountain. From there I could see toward the south what appeared to be a city. As he brought me nearer, I saw a man whose face shone like bronze standing beside a gateway entrance. He was holding in his hand a linen measuring cord and a measuring rod.” (40:1-3)

Next, “The Measuring Man” whose face shone like bronze (symbolizing strength) takes Ezekiel to view the Temple area. Every time in scripture we see a shining man with a measuring rod, it is an angelic encounter worthy of Ezekiel’s attention and ours as well. “The Measuring Man” is also mentioned in Zechariah 2 and Revelation 21.

Why is Ezekiel being brought here? “Son of man, watch and listen. Pay close attention to everything I show you. You have been brought here so I can show you many things.” (40:4)

There are so many questions that have sent me into further study…

North, South, East, and West. What is the significance of these gates and the bigger picture?

These four words represent the FOUR CORNERS of the earth, and God is over ALL OF THEM. The number FOUR means COMPLETE!

For instance, why is there only mention of the South Gateway, East Gateway, and North Gateway? Where is mention of the West Gateway? Three gates will lead into the outer court of the Millenial Temple and apparently, they will all be the same. There will be no gate on the western wall, and in chapter 43 we will learn why the East Gate will be sealed…AMAZING!

Revelation 7:1 tells us of another vision given to the apostle John from a heavenly vantage point so high that he can see “Angels standing at the FOUR CORNERS OF THE EARTH.”

This compass covers the entire world created in God’s image which will be put back together in entirety for all to view that will place Satan in his place, open the eyes and hearts of God’s Jewish people, connect the Old and New Testament covenants as never revealed before, and place Jesus on the throne of David to reign for God’s intended millennium. Every eye will see, and every knee will have the chance to bow before HIM!

Why is there such painstaking care of every detail of each gateway and why are they the same? Interesting that from the very beginning when God instructed Moses to pay very close attention to each and every detail that He stressed, “EXACT PATTERN”.

God’s perfection is represented in completeness in all numbers and patterns. When the time comes for Jesus’ glorious appearing, God’s chosen people will know “beyond a shadow of a doubt” whose glory fills the temple!

THREE IN ONE. Do you notice how God is always working as a team with His hierarchy?

The WORD. The WASHING. And THE WAY.

FATHER, SON, and SPIRIT… are functioning in unity, and will be fully revealed through the new millennium. Ezekiel is instructed by “The Measuring Man”, “Hear with your ears and behold with your eyes, and open your heart.” (40:4) This is the complete washing of the WORD!

TWO STICKS. Some visuals are hard to forget… like the four-faced creature in Ezekiel’s first two visions, and then there were the TWO STICKS.

When Ezekiel wrote on the two sticks all the people knew good and well who the words represented. They were the division of the two kingdoms that used to be one nation under God.

Do you remember the face of the East in the vision of the four-headed creature? It was “A Lion”, representing Judah, the East. The face of the South was the emblem of “A MAN”.

Talk about Deja Vu, Ezekiel is being “taken away” in another vision and what does he see at the future Temple? “All the walls were decorated with carvings of cherubim, each with TWO FACES, and there was a carving of a palm tree between each of the cherubim. One face--that of a MAN-- looked toward the palm tree on one side. The other face--that of a young LION-- looked toward the palm tree on the other side.” (41:18-19)

By the way, Palm trees are a symbol of righteousness, goodness, and abundance of God’s royal family. It was with PALM BRANCHES that they welcomed Jesus at the triumphal entry. Not one detail of God’s description was placed there without great meaning and significance!

In fact, the very words that they said at Jesus’ entrance as they waved their Palm Branches were taken directly from Psalm 118, “Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the LORD.”

This one king, born a man of God, will be the center of this new Millenial Tabernacle.

“The WORD was made flesh and dwelt -- or literally TABERNACLED--among us.” (John 1:14)

Jesus will be the FOUNDATION of their broken wavering faith and God will reveal all things in His perfect time!

“For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ!” (I Cor. 3:11)

“The Measuring Man” is presenting quite the visual to Ezekiel and to us… every pattern, detail, and obscure element will one day be revealed… and wrapped in a CHRISTMAS BOW!

Four Corners. Three in One. Two Sticks. One Stone.

Man, That’s some Measuring!

Taming the Tongue

Taming the Tongue

JAMES 2:18-3:18

(November 19)

Have you ever said something then wished you could pull the words back into your mouth? Or dig a hole and hide in it? Or felt that moment of instant regret as soon as the words left your lips?

How deadly our tongue can be! We can so easily use it to cause pain to others. Sometimes that is done on purpose, sometimes not. Once spoken, they can't be unspoken. Once heard, they can't be unheard.

Today's portion of the Book of James talks about how difficult it is to tame our tongues. We can train our pets, tame all sorts of animals, but that tongue is another story.

How strange it is that we use the same tongue to bring others down that we use to praise God and sing songs of worship to him. But when we use our tongue for both good and evil, are we REALLY praising God when we are speaking negativity into others?

Does a spring of water bubble out with both fresh water and bitter water? (verse 11)

Being wise to the ways of God, and understanding the ways of our own tongues, can help us live honorably when we seek to prevent our tongues from spreading evil. Bypassing negative, harsh, critical words, and focusing on the good in others helps us to live righteously.

There should be no hate, no bitterness, no resentment or jealousy in the words we speak. Remember that your tongue has the power to influence others ... either for good or for bad. It is the hardest thing to control and is our greatest weapon.

Like a fire is good for warmth but can also be scorching, so is the tongue. Only when we use the Holy Spirit as our guide can we overcome the battle with the tongue and the words we speak.

Consider what your thoughts are. Are you thinking on the "good stuff" of Philippians 4:8? Or are your thoughts constantly filled with anger, resentment, bitterness, jealousy, and malice? The thoughts we carry in our minds become the words we speak with our mouths.

By pondering before we speak and thinking about whether what we want to say is true, kind and necessary, we can take control over our words and truly tame our tongues, seeking to imitate God instead of the enemy.

Rattle…Part 2

One Year Bible: November 19

Ezekiel 39-40:27

RATTLE (Part 2)

“Saturday was silent. Surely it was through. But since when has impossible Ever stopped You. Friday’s disappointment is Sunday’s empty tomb. Since when has impossible Ever stopped You. This is the sound of dry bones rattling. This is the praise, make a dead man walk again. Open the grave. I’m coming out. I’m gonna live, gonna live again. This is the sound of dry bones rattling…”

(RATTLE! Elevation Worship)

And now for the rest of the story… (Thank you, Paul Harvey!)

God isn’t going to just RATTLE the DRY BONES, He’s going to RATTLE a STONE that will end a CATACLYSMIC BATTLE with the forces of evil.

God is speaking into the future and foretelling what He is going to do. It WILL happen just as sure as “Them Dem Bones Gonna Hear the WORD OF THE LORD”.

When?... I am not a DEBATER, but rather a DISCERNER. There is a big difference.

Have you ever seen Christians get all “Up and Nasty” with each other? They get “their preacher panties all in a wad” over the “millennium” over the “millennium”. They are thumping their Bible and their veins are popping out. Pretty sad, stuff if you ask me… They want to be “Theologically Correct”. I get that, but I think they actually call that PRIDE.

I much prefer Ezekiel’s answer in yesterday’s passage, “O Sovereign LORD,” I replied, ‘You alone know the answer to that.” (Ez. 37:1-3) So, I will humbly stick with that answer…

I will say this, a millennium is a period of 1000 years during which Christ will reign on earth. (Rev. 20: 1-7) and it is also known as a period of general righteousness and happiness, especially in the indefinite future. It is also called a “thousandth anniversary”.

In other words, ALL of God’s prophecies have come to pass in exactly HIS TIMING by HIS POWER and according to HIS PERFECT PLAN! So, that is “THE PLAN”!

The identities of Gog and Magog (38:2) are key to the next dramatic RATTLE.

The word “Gog” means “Ruler”, and “Magog” means “Head”.

Who is the “Ruler” of Magog?

In 500 B.C., Greek historian, Herodotus identified the land of Magog as the ancestry of Russia. Flavius Josephus, (shortly after the time of Christ) also identified this land in connection with Russia. Even the Encyclopedia Britannica associates Russia with this land. That is why the nation of Israel and the world is watching the burning ember of Russia!

Have you tuned in to the words of the leader of Russia when he says that destroying Ukraine, which desires freedom, is part of “his religious calling”? The question is, “Where is his calling coming from?” This entity is not a friend of God, Christians, or God’s chosen Jews.

Ezekiel 38:4 brings about another interesting thought, “I will bring thee forth, and all things army, horses, and horsemen”. This passage describes them in a war-like state. There is only one army in the world today we are told that has a significant cavalry, The Russians. Whether or not this is a symbolic reference, identifying factor, or realistic description remains to be seen.

According to this prophecy, Russia will descend upon Israel like a storm.

As you watch the world events unfolding before your eyes, does this surprise you in the least?

Just as God brought to life the dead dry bones by His Word and Spirit, He will win the final war for mankind. This should be something that we all can agree upon because this passage is about UNITY. God proclaims that He is taking his divided kingdoms to make them ONE!

His presence will be the central unifying force for Israel and the world.

“My tabernacle also shall be with them.”, God declares through Ezekiel. (37:27, 28)

How will this RATTLING happen?

“The WORD was made flesh and dwelt -- or literally TABERNACLED--among us.” (John 1:14)

“In the beginning was the WORD, and the WORD was with God, and the WORD was God.” (John 1:1)

How will all this millennium reign come about and how will it end?

In Creation… by the WORD and the SPIRIT.

DEAD BONES COME ALIVE… by the WORD and the SPIRIT.

At the Cross… by the WORD and the SPIRIT.

GOG and MAGOG… Defeated by the WORD and the SPIRIT!!

In the words of Ezekiel, “O Sovereign LORD, You alone know the answer to that.” (37:3)

“Since when has impossible ever stopped You. This is the sound of dry bones rattling.” (Rattle)

Be About His Business

Be About His Business

JAMES 1:19-2:17

(November 18)

Back in my early adult years, I spent some time as a waitress. I spent my work hours serving those who came in for a meal. While it wasn't my favorite job, and I had dreams for something better, I did my best to serve them well. That is what God expects of us ... to serve others in love, the best we can with what we have.

This service demonstrates our faith in action. It shows that our faith isn't dead, but is in action, producing good deeds. When we do this, we are about the business of God.

James specifically mentions widows and orphans when he talks about doing for others. In the first century, both of those types of people had very little means of providing for themselves. Hopefully, there was family to care for them. If not, they found themselves as beggars, slaves, or starving. The church put their faith into action by caring for those who could not support themselves. This was the business of God.

James also mentioned the importance of getting rid of anger and listening humbly to the word of God, planting it deep within your heart. While listening was very important, obedience to what you heard was crucial.

Calling yourself a Christian, and then speaking foolishness and letting your words bring about pain to others made your Christianity worthless. James reminded the readers that their words should be a reflection of Christ and pleasing to God. The way we talk to others, the way we treat others justly, despite their social or financial status, is a reflection of our relationship with Christ.

If we want mercy, we need to show mercy to others. If we want forgiveness, we need to offer it freely. If our desire is for others to see our faith, we need to put into action with our works. When we do these things, that is when we are about our Father's business.

Dry Bones Rattling

One Year Bible: November 18

Ezekiel 37:1-38:23

DRY BONES RATTLING

“The LORD took hold of me, and I was carried away by the Spirit of the LORD to a valley with bones. He led me all around among the bones that covered the valley floor. They were scattered everywhere across the ground and were completely dried out. Then He asked me, ‘Son of man, can these bones become living people again’?”

“O Sovereign LORD,” I replied, ‘You alone know the answer to that.” (Ez. 37:1-3)

Scattered. Dry. Dead.

Sinews. Flesh. Skin.

Scattered Bones. Whole Skeletons. Not Alive.

Four Winds. One Spirit. Two Sticks.

One Nation. One King. One Shepherd.

This is today’s RATTLING message for the Nation of Israel and for the world to come.

Chapters 37-39 in the book of Ezekiel are the most well-known and highly debated chapters in Ezekiel, but I am not here to debate them. I am not a theologian, prophet, or Hebrew scholar.

I am just a woman of faith who literally stands in awe and kneels in worship as I read this chapter. I hope as we stop to take in the unbelievable spectacle contained in this chapter that your heart will RATTLE also…

As Ezekiel quickly found out, he was correct, “Only YOU ALONE know the answer to that!”

Ezekiel did exactly as the LORD asked him to do. He spoke a prophetic message to the bones that were scattered all over the surface of the valley and completely dried out by the sun. As he spoke there was a RATTlING NOISE ALL ACROSS THE VALLEY!!

Can you imagine preaching that kind of sermon while watching the dead re-attaching and the skeletons reconnecting? Next, the muscles and flesh formed over the bones and skin now cover their body. This had to be Ezekiel’s very best day on the job, EVER!

But, “THEY STILL HAD NO BREATH IN THEM.” (37:7-8)

So, God speaks again and commands, “This is what the Sovereign LORD says: ‘Come, O breath, from “THE FOUR WINDS”! Breathe into these dead bodies so they may live again!”

FOUR WINDS. COMPLETE. BREATHE OF GOD.

The word “WIND” or Hebrew “ruah” which is translated as BREATH (v. 5 and 30) is also translated as “SPIRIT” or “SPIRIT OF THE LORD”.

What just happened here reminds us of creation when God “Breathed the breath of life into creation”. At that time he started with the dust, but this time he took brittle dead bones.

What has created such a “RATTLE” on this hopeless day of death, destruction, and deportation?

It was “THE WORD” and the “SPIRIT”!

There were three stages for these bones that represent the nation of Israel. First, they were scattered dry bones. Then, they were flesh and sin coming together, but still DEAD. They are not made ALIVE until the “Spirit of God” comes into them!

This prophecy is much larger than just a word for their return from their 70 years of exile because it speaks of TWO STICKS which is actually Ezekiel’s last object lesson. He was commanded to take two sticks and write on them the names of the two most prominent tribes of the divided kingdom. All of Israel would understand this object lesson….

Then God reveals a message that is far greater than just a physical restoration of his divided kingdom. He is going to spiritually revive them and “breathe” life back into them like the RATTLING DEAD BONES.

How will this happen?

There will be ONE KINGDOM. ONE SHEPHERD. ONE SON OF DAVID.

Why David? He represented the man of true selfless worship! God had made a covenant to him and out of that covenant, He would bring a fulfilled covenant through his lineage.

The best part of this story is the word… FOREVER!

How long will HE reign?...FOREVER!

New Hearts. Eternal Covenant. Rebuilt Temple.

How will this happen exactly? When will all this occur?

I don’t know exactly, but I sure can’t wait to see DRY BONES RATTLING!

Having an “Asking” Faith

Having an "Asking" Faith

JAMES 1:1-18

(November 17)

The book of James was written by James, the brother of Jesus. He was a leader of the church in Jerusalem and was concerned for the early believers because he they didn't have the support of established Christian churches. Stephen had been martyred and persecution had increased, and the Christians were scattered throughout the Roman world. James wanted to give the early believers some perspective on life, and in the first portion of his letter, he speaks to the ability to profit through trials, how to have a better perspective of rich and poor, and how to love God despite what you might be going through.

He speaks to the subject of faith by saying that we must have an "asking" faith ... a faith in which we feel free to ask for that which we need and ask in faith without doubting. Our faith should be strong, and in God alone, with no loyalty divided and focused on the world.

According to James, being poor is something to boast about. God honors those who live in such a way. But what if you are rich? God will honor the humbleness of the wealthy. We don't have to be rich to be used by God or to be blessed by God. We don't have to have wealth to live out the calling God has placed on our lives.

Another point James is clear about is that you WILL have TEMPTATION in your life. Through that temptation we have the choice ... to grow Godly character and be more like Christ, or to fall short and give in to the temptation. Those who can patiently endure through the temptations of the world will received God's promised crown of life.

We also need to understand that temptation doesn't come from God, it comes from our own worldly desires. These desires, when not patiently endured, turn into sinful acts. When we don't get control over the sin in our lives, it results in death.

We should not be tempted by those things which look pleasing and good. The good things in life are not found through temptations. All that is good and perfect comes from God, the creator of all good things. Those good things are there for us if we go to God with an "asking" faith and an undoubting heart. He wants to bless us.

My Enemy’s Enemy

One Year Bible: November 17

Ezekiel 35:1-36:38

My Enemy’s Enemy

“The enemy of my enemy is my friend.”--Ancient Proverb

Have you ever experienced someone picking on one of your siblings or family members?

I remember a time when I was still in elementary school when our family went on vacation to Joplin, Missouri, my parent’s hometown. We were there to visit our grandparents and stay in Howard Johnson’s hotel. It was the very same hotel where hail came down and chipped our windshield, and where a tornado came through and damaged the roof of the place!

Oh, yea! There are lots of memorable memories of that place! Perhaps we should have known better than to stay there again, but then again we always did… I, myself, loved the pool, but that is not a big surprise as I basically love all open, long big pools surrounded by trees and nature.

On this day the pool was surrounded by a little too much nature. There were four other boys in the pool who were hanging out in the pool and they decided it would be fun to bully my brother. They were starting a fight just because they thought it would be entertaining to them.

It was four against one and that is not good odds at all. Until there were two Straters against four boys. I just remember picking up a couple of those bad boys and throwing them out of the pool. The hail and tornados had nothing on me at the OL’ Howard Johnson’s hotel on that day.

No way! Family sticks together!!

God was more than “ready to rumble” for his own in dealing with Edom, who is also known as Mount Seir. The reason for this is because of Edom’s long enmity toward Israel. God was disciplining his own people and this left an open door for the enemy to think that it could come in and take over their land and make a mockery of them. Big mistake!

Remember the hail and tornadoes? God has all of that and more in His arsenal and it is best for the enemies of God to remember that!

The three parts of prophecy against Israel’s enemies end like this, “Then you (they) will know that I am the LORD.” (Ezekiel 35: 4, 9, 15)

Here is what God says about their treatment of His people, “I am your enemy, O Mount Seir, and I will raise my fist against you to destroy you completely. I will demolish your cities and make you desolate. Then you will know that I am the LORD. Your eternal hatred for the people of Israel led you to butcher them when they were helpless when I had already punished them for all their sins.” (35:3-5)

The New Testament helps us understand this general principle even better. “Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath; for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.” (Rom. 12:19-21)

This passage today is about God’s vengeance and His rightful place to REPAY… it was not Israel or Judah’s place to revenge. It was in God’s hands. It was also in His hands to determine when He would forgive and bring His people home.

Romans 12:21 goes on to tell us how we can deal with our enemies. Trust me when I say that this is the complete opposite of how Edom/Mount Seir dealt with their weakened enemy. “Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirsts, give him drink; for in so doing this shalt heap coals of fire on his head. Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.”

You see, this was NOT Israel or Judah’s finest day. They were weakened by sin and they were in complete disarray. But, they were God’s chosen “Disarray” and He was their “Deliverance”.

“The enemy of my enemy is my friend!”

Many of God’s chosen people have not yet accepted the Messiah. Yet, God has not forsaken His people, and all of the words written in the Bible express that His prophecies will be to re-establish the nation of Israel to show a sign of His eternal faithfulness. Many of the prophecies that we are reading now, even in this book, have not yet happened.

So, we dare not make the mistake that Edom made in dealing with God’s own because God has called us to, “Pray for the peace of Jerusalem.” (Psalm 122:6)

We are to pray for the many Jewish people who are now coming to the Messiah, to thank God for the faithful remnant that God used to bring His son, and to pray for the return of Christ.

As for us, God’s adopted children in Christ, we are reminded that God has “our back also”. It may seem like evil goes unavenged but that ‘vengeance’ belongs to God and God alone.

One of my absolute favorite songs is called “Things That I’m Afraid of” and there is a line that “STICKS OUT” in the song that reminds me WHO “STICKS UP” for me,

“My fears would surely kill me if I didn’t know the truth.

The things that I’m afraid of are AFRAID OF YOU.” (Josh Wilson)

My Enemy’s Enemy!

A Sacrifice of Praise

A Sacrifice of Praise

HEBREWS 13: 1-25

(November 16)

Once several years back my husband came home from filling up his Big Gulp cup and told me he saw "Jesus" at 7-11. Of course, I was curious as to what he meant, so I went to fill up my own Big Gulp cup and see what the story was.

I pulled up to the store and outside stood a man who was obviously homeless. He had no shoes on. He had on a flowy shirt and tan linen pants. His hair was long and brownish, completely dreadlocked. His skin was tan (probably from a lot of time spent out in the elements). But the thing that struck me ... that jabbed me right in the heart ... was his eyes. They were the most piercing blue eyes I've ever seen. They looked right down into your heart.

He followed me into the store. (Why? I don't know.) I walked over to the machine to fill up my drink and then I turned, and he was standing close by. I asked him if he would like something to drink and he said he would. I asked him if he would like a sandwich or something to eat. He looked at me with those topaz eyes and said, "Would you really buy me something to eat?"

"I absolutely will buy you whatever you want to eat." was my reply. He picked out his food, I paid, and we walked outside with him thanking me multiple times for the food.

Thus began our relationship for the next two weeks. I stopped by the store every day (those Big Gulps don't fill up all by themselves), and he would be standing outside. We would go in, I would get my drink and whatever his heart desired, and we would part on his words of gratitude.

Two weeks later, he was not standing there. I waited a while, I came back the next day, but I never saw him again. In that moment, I realized how happy it had made my heart to help him ... to make a small difference in his life. And that is when my love for feeding those in need really grew in my heart. Because of the stranger my hubby dubbed as "Jesus."

Today's scripture reminds us about showing hospitality to strangers. "for some who have done this have entertained angels without realizing it!" (verse 2). My heart believes that I entertained an angel for two weeks. And that angel reminded me how great it feels to help others.

There is so much we need to remember as we walk out this Christian life, and much of it is included in today's reading:

• Remember those in prison

• Remember those that are mistreated

• Remember to be honorable and faithful in marriage

• Remember to be satisfied with what you have

• Remember your leaders

• Remember to obey your spiritual leaders

• Remember to offer through Jesus a continual sacrifice of praise to God

What is the "sacrifice of praise"? The Jewish Christians considered their praise to the Messiah their sacrifice, one which could be officered anytime and anywhere. The fruit of their lips, their words of praise, were their offering.

We too should remember to give praise as an offering to God. The sacrifice of thankful praise is so much easier than the sacrifice that was made which offers us this opportunity.

The Helpline

One Year Bible: November 16

Ezekiel 33:1-34:31

The Helpline

Would you like a computer to drive your car for you?

I personally, would not like to be driven off a cliff by a little voice named Siri who says, “Redirecting. Redirecting”

Much of my life is spent using all kinds of computer programs as a teacher, and the word “Glitch” and computers go hand in hand. Not only are they fallible but they can get viruses and have outside forces that can derail you quickly (like weather and internet service).

The other night I was purchasing a two-night stay at a hotel for a getaway to “cool fall weather”. I had been watching this particular deal for quite a while and it was saved under this particular travel program. As I went to purchase it, the program switched me to their credit card add, encouraging me to get their “gold” card and get $100.00 off. When it circled back around to my choice (where I had already put in all of my information) it somehow switched me to a different hotel that I had never considered.

I literally sat at my computer at the “HELP CENTER” for over TWO HOURS. It was about $450.00, but more than that it was WRONG!

I have never been a fan of wrong even as a child. I can remember being at church camp as a high schooler, and it was talent show week. There were a group of girls who wanted to sing and I was about the only pianist, so I was being recruited to play for them. But, they started to be rude to a new girl at camp, telling her that she couldn’t sing on key. So, they wouldn’t let her join them. I decided to prove my point by letting them know that I would just go hang with her so she wouldn’t be alone. Long story short… she got to sing, so I played.

This passage is about “The Watchman who sees the enemy coming after the weak sheep” and sounds the alarm to warn the people. That was Ezekiel’s calling and it is ours also. God told Ezekiel that he would hold him responsible for not warning them to repent.

“The Help Center” that I sat at for over two hours just kept passing me on to different people. Not one of them actually called the hotel or offered assistance. Now, my friends, I realize that was just money and a two-night stay.

But, what about a person’s destiny and an ETERNAL STAY? How upset do we get about that? Am I a watchman for others around me calling them lovingly back to the shepherd and actually being “present on the line”? I pray so!

God’s next message that came to Ezekiel was about shepherds, the leaders of the flock. Here is what He says, “What sorrow awaits you shepherds who feed yourselves instead of your flocks. Shouldn’t shepherds feed their sheep?.... You have not taken care of the weak. You have not tended to the sick or bound up the injured. You have not gone looking for those who have wandered away and are lost.” (34:1-6)

There is much more to this passage, and it is worth a re-read. Like the car being driven by a computer, the church is not called to be, “Redirecting. Redirecting.” There is but ONE DIRECTION. ONE WAY. It is unaltered by the latest and greatest ways of man.

The shepherd doesn’t even know the word LOST anymore… We are just “Redirecting. Substituting. Finding Our Selves.”

The sheep have gone from GRAZING to just GAZING as well.

To be cared for by a shepherd you need to be placed under their care. That’s a little difficult from your couch through an online worship service and a remote control surfing the channels.

SUBSTITUTIONS.

There is the Watchman that is to be WATCHING, and The Shepherd who is to be Shepherding.

And, the HOLY GOD who is to be followed because He alone is Sovereign.

It was easier when we just talked about idols, wasn’t it?

But then we must stop and ask ourselves the question that God is asking Ezekiel, “Will you protect my people that don’t know better from danger?”

“Will you go after the lost?”

“Will you be watching from the wall?”

“Will you speak? Will you stand?”

When people get in a jam, will you be willing and available at “The HELPLINE?”

“They have wandered through all the mountains and all the hills, across the face of the earth, yet no one has gone to search for them.” (Ez. 34: 6)

Unshakeable Kingdom

Unshakable Kingdom

HEBREWS 12:14-29

(November 15)

Peace is defined as freedom from disturbance, tranquility

We are to work at living like this each day. How well are you doing? I know there are days when I fail miserably at living in peace.

We are also to work at living a holy life. That is a requirement for seeing the Lord face-to-face. This is a hard command to live up to, especially in today's world. So, what can we do to make it a little easier?

We can help each other... look out for one another. We can be on the lookout for bitterness, that spreads like wildfire. When we have animosity against someone, or resentment builds up, we get bitter. This bitterness can turn into anger, jealousy, dissension and immorality. While bitterness can start with the heart of one person, it can have wide-ranging effects.

Essau is a perfect example of this. He traded his birthright as the firstborn son, his twin Jacob was born just after him, for a single meal. Later, he was filled with regret, and his father rejected him. He begged and begged, weeping bitterly, to no avail.

How do we overcome bitterness? The solution is forgiveness. Once again, not something that often comes easily, but very necessary for living a holy life.

It is made easier by the fact that we no longer live under the law, like the Israelites did. We live under the new covenant that was sealed by the sacrifice of Jesus. Because of this, we can be in conversation with God.

Scripture warns us that we should be careful to listen when God speaks. If we reject him, he promises to shake the heavens and the earth, removing all that does not put faith in him, leaving only those things that stand confident in him.

Those of us who are believers will receive that unshakable Kingdom. This is the reason for much thanksgiving, and we should pour that thanksgiving into worship of God.

No Substitutions

One Year Bible: November 15

Ezekiel 31:1-32:32

No Substitutions

“To whom would you compare your greatness? You are like mighty Assyria, which was once like a cedar of Lebanon, with beautiful branches that cast deep forest shade and with its top high among the clouds. Deep springs watered it and helped it grow tall and luxurious. The water flowed around it like a river, streaming to all the trees nearby. This great tree towered high, higher than all the other trees around it.” (31:1-5)

Today’s allegory was given to Pharaoh King of Egypt and it compares Assyria and Egypt. This was significant because they had been allies and enemies, and then rivals. Assyria could be compared with Egypt in military might and it is compared to a cedar in Lebanon, the stateliest tree in the region. It was an Apex of power that dominated the Middle East like the tall cedar tree. Everyone nation around it lived in its shadow.

But now, Ezekiel makes a little switch with a hyperbole that takes us in a different direction. He compares this magnificent tree to the cedars in God’s Garden of Eden and says, “All the trees of Eden… were jealous of it.” (31:8-9)

That brings up a question worth asking, “What tree in the Garden of Eden was all jealous of?”

I am certainly not a great theologian but my thought is the one tree that God told them not to touch or partake of…But, they did! They made a brief, thoughtless, serpent-recommended SUBSTITUTION. I have a difficult time thinking that Eve pondered long and hard to see through the Serpent's half-truths to realize what that one little substitution would cost all of God’s creation.

Then there is Egypt which we were discussing yesterday with the Ten Plagues. As a young child learning Bible stories, I learned about the plagues but I never heard or grasped the part that each plague was aimed as a SUBSTITUTION for what God had made.

The Water Turned to Blood was against the Egyptian god of the Nile, “Hapi”, the god of water-bearing. The frogs coming from the Nile River were against “Heket”-the Egyptian goddess of Fertility, Water, and Renewal.

The plague of lice from the dust of the earth was against “Geb”, the Egyptian god of the Earth.

The swarm of Flies was against “Khepri”, the Egyptian god that had the head of a fly.

The plague of death against the Egyptian cattle and livestock was against the Egyptian goddess, Hathor who was the goddess of love and protection represented by the head of a cow.

The plague of ashes that turned to boils and sores was against the goddess of medicine and peace, “Isis”. The hail that rained down in the form of fire was against, Nut, the goddess of the sky. The locusts sent from the sky were against Seth, the Egyptian god of storms and disorder. The plague of the Three Days of Complete Darkness was against “Ra”--The Sun god.

The Death of the Firstborn was against the ultimate power of Egypt, Pharaoh, who had raised himself up as a SUBSTITUTION of God.

The first Substitution, however, didn’t start with Pharoah or with Adam and Eve. It started within the HOLIEST place of all, Heaven. It was there that Satan wanted to make a (tongue in cheek)

“Slight SUBSTITUTION”. He wanted to be EQUAL with God.

I think that it is very possible that we could read through all of these warnings and judgments and still miss the message that it DOES apply to us today. Perhaps, you are thinking that is impossible because we have Jesus who was the SUBSTITUTION of our SIN.

AMEN! But, let me remind us that Satan had God and all of perfection, but he traded it away.

The problem is that we can’t choose Jesus and substitutions. It is Jesus, period!

Jesus answered, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through ME.” (John 14:6)

Every parable, allegory, punishment, and heartbreak told in this book has flowed from this one small significant word, SUBSTITUTION.

The fall from heaven, the departure from the garden, the first murder, The breaking of the Ten Commandments, the plagues, the wandering in the wilderness, the flood, the judgment, the exile of God’s people, and on and on it goes…

We live in a culture today where if you open your ears and hearts you can hear this little word, Substitution. No, it’s not audibly said, but it is IMPLIED, LIVED, and EMBRACED.

A person of national authority stands up and asks a denomination to support abortion to give rights to women. People who choose an alternative, sinful lifestyles say “Praise the Lord!” and appeal that “A Slight Variation” is indeed acceptable. All good people go to heaven, right? And many pastors will tell you that there are many roads to get there…

Humanism tells us that the gospel should be centered around our desires, passions, and fulfillment. It was this pseudo-religiosity that brought judgment on Jerusalem and its enemies.

It is just a slight variation on the original theme… Like a tall Cypress that is about to break!

Not then. Not now... No SUBSTITUTIONS!

A Great Cloud of Witnesses

A Great Cloud of Witnesses

HEBREWS 11:32 - 12:13

(November 14)

Who do you look up to as an example? What people do you strive to be like? Are you someone's role model?

There are so many people around us that can teach us and be an example to us. And sometimes, we are that example for others. The way we live speaks volumes to others.

Sometimes it is the power and victories that we see in others. We want those same achievements.

Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David. Samuel and other prophets demonstrated their faith by overthrowing kingdoms, ruling with justice, and receiving their promises from God. These were the ones who shut the mouths of lions, put out the fires, and avoided certain death. What was once weak in them became their strength through faith. They became battle leaders.

Other times, we see people who suffer for the sake of a cause, and we want to be like them ... strong in the face of suffering.

The Bible shows us many examples of people who were tortured for their faith in God. They were mocked, cut with whips, chained in prison cells, sawed in half, or stoned to death. Some were poor and oppressed and spent their lives in hiding, waiting for this life to end so they could go on to a better one.

The faith of these people gave them a reputation that was admired. Their faith gave them the gift of eternal life, not on this earth, but with God, so that they could finally reach perfection.

So, the question would be ... with all these fine examples of faith around us and before us, what holds us back? Our faith should equal theirs, being strong enough that we can run whatever race God places before us, knowing that our faith will get us to the finish line.

The only way to win this race is to keep our eyes on Jesus. If Jesus can endure what he endured for the sake of our lives, then we should be able to endure anything that comes our way.

Our faith in God needs to remain strong, even in moments when he is disciplining us. "My child, don't make light of the Lord's discipline, and don't give up when he corrects you. For the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes each one he accepts as his child. (Verse 5-6)

God's discipline is a beautiful thing because it means he loves us. Just as we discipline our children out of love, God does the same for us. The knowledge that we are so loved by God should energize us and give us the endurance we need to keep going.

What is testing you today? Is it your marriage, your kids, or your job? Maybe it is an illness or a financial situation. Or perhaps you are struggling in a relationship with a family member or friend. Whatever the test, put your faith in Christ and run your race with the endurance that comes only from God.

Draw your strength from him and from the example you received from that great cloud of witnesses.

Empty Crowns

One Year Bible: November 14

Ezekiel 29:1-30:26

Empty Crowns

Egypt, Oh Mighty Egypt!

This lament is for you, not that you are being stricken and taken down in all of your evil, but that it didn’t happen to you sooner because you were like a “Crocodile in the Nile”.

Why does God have Ezekiel tell the stories with such angst and descriptive words?

This is poetry or analogy common to their day and time, but not common to us.

When you hear the word “Egypt” what comes to your mind?

Ahhh, yes! The Ten Egyptian plagues for the Ten Egyptian gods and goddesses that God sent to force Pharoah to “let my people go.”

The number TEN is a significant number in biblical numerology as it stands for the fullness or completeness of their discipline.

So, there were the TEN Unforgettable Plagues and the TEN Commandments.

What a big contrast there is between those two things. One was symbolic of the fullness of God’s moral code, and one of His expressed judgment on those who would not repent.

TEN TIMES Pharoah had the opportunity to repent and let “My People GO!” Ten Times he said “NO”. It was a memorable moment even for Charlton Heston! (If I need to explain that little comment you might want to watch the movie, “THE TEN COMMANDMENTS”).

Speaking of the Nile and the Crocodiles, that’s where the Egyptian army ended up, and while God’s people walked through an open, parted SEA for all the world to SEE!

But all of that and the amazing miracles of deliverance performed by God on behalf of his people seem to be long forgotten and that is why we are where we are today.

This passage describes them as “LIVIN’ IN THE SHADE” but before they know it they too are in the “EVERGLADES”. That mirky Nile has come back to haunt them again.

Did you read the reaction of their neighbors? It is basically, “Why didn’t you get here sooner, (Sheol) because it is what you have always deserved. The monstrous crocodile was not nearly as powerful as he thought.”

There is another analogy used here which says, “I have broken the arm of Pharaoh King of Egypt.” He had no strength to pick up a sword to defend himself. Instead, he would groan in agony and defeat.

This king held onto his crown with every morsel of evil strength that was in him. He would not bow to TEN COLOSSAL PLAGUES nor to a God who demonstrated HIS SOVEREIGN POWER by dividing the RED SEA. It was simply an unforgettable event to the nation of Egypt, but now it is long FORGOTTEN or PRIDEFULLY IGNORED…

Yet, the facts remain. God’s people were set free from their evil then, and they would be set free again… The crown of the evil empire is laid bare, powerless, defeated… AGAIN!

In this special season of mourning, I am reminded of another crown, however.

The United States declared its independence from Great Britain in 1776, and even with all of that history, we have once again become admirers and on-watchers of “The Crown” and “All Things Royal”. We have watched the royal spats and the death of a beloved princess through the years… But, now, “God Save the Queen”, and I believe He has done just that…

Listen to Queen Elizabeth’s words about her crown and power.

The Queen exclaimed: “How I wish that the Lord would come in my lifetime!”

“Why?” asked the chaplain.

The Queen replied with quivering lips and her whole countenance lighted up by deep emotion--

“I should so love to lay my crown at His feet.” @theroyalfamily

AND, SO SHE SHALL…EMPTY CROWNS speak of true allegiance!