Zechariah 7 & 8 - Repentance Urged, Blessings Promised

LINK: Zechariah 7 & 8

BACKGROUND

Almost two years after the night visions in the previous chapters on December 7, 518 B.C., Zechariah gave three messages to the people. For the last 70 years, the people in captivity had been holding a fast in July/August to remember the destruction of Jerusalem by Nebuchadnezzar (2 Kings 25:8-10) and a fast in September/October commemorating the death of Gedaliah, governor of Judah, during a time of civil strife after the fall of Jerusalem (Jeremiah 41:2). They came to the temple to ask if they had to continue fasting now that the temple was being rebuilt. Here is the gist of the three messages:

1) They were rebuked for fasting and feasting (Lev. 23, Deut. 12) out of formalism and for themselves rather than for the Lord (7:5-6).

2) They were exhorted to administer justice and show mercy and compassion toward all because the previous generation had hearts as hard as flint (KJV says "adamant stone"). Because of this, God did not hear their prayers (7:13), dispersed them among the nations (7:14a), and desolated their land (7:14b). Yesterday's reflection and application relate to this.

3) They were promised blessing in the future when God would bring them back, and He would dwell in the midst of Jerusalem and be their God in truth and righteousness. Their fasting would be turned to feasting, and they will be a blessing to "all languages and nations"(8:13, 22- 23; Genesis 12:1-3!). Therefore, Zechariah encouraged them to finish the work on the temple and not to be afraid.

REFLECTION

I have been saying since Genesis 12:1-3 that part of God's plan has been from the beginning that God wants to redeem all peoples. I have attempted over the entire two years of Old Testament studies to point out this "bottom line" blessing of the Bible.

If I haven't convinced you of this thread running throughout the entire Old Testament, Warren Wiersbe's summary of 8:20-23 should:

The Gentiles will be redeemed (Zech. 8:20–23). God called Abraham and established the nation of Israel so His people would witness to the Gentiles and lead them to faith in the true God (Gen. 12:1–3). In setting apart one nation, God was seeking to reach a whole world. Many of the great events in Jewish history recorded in Scripture had behind them a witness to “the whole world”: the plagues of Egypt (Ex. 9:16); the conquest of Canaan (Josh. 4:23–24); God’s blessing of the nation (Deut. 28:9–11); and even the building of the temple (1 Kings 8:42–43). When David killed Goliath, he announced that God would give him victory so “that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel” (1 Sam. 17:46).

But Israel failed in her mission to the Gentiles. Instead of the Gentile nations coming to worship the true God of Israel, the Jews forsook Jehovah and worshiped the false gods of the Gentile nations. The “court of the Gentiles” in Herod’s temple became a market where Jews visiting Jerusalem from other countries could exchange their money and buy approved sacrifices. However, before we criticize the Jews too much, we had better examine the track record of the church when it comes to winning the lost at home and taking the Gospel to nations abroad.

When Messiah restores His people and establishes His kingdom, the Gentiles will trust the true and living God and come to Jerusalem to worship Him. Isaiah saw a river of Gentiles “flowing” into the city (Isa. 2:1–5) and Micah used the same figure (Micah 4:1–5). Zechariah describes a scene in which ten men (a Hebrew expression for “many men”) will take hold of one Jew and beg to go with him to the temple!

It’s a wonderful thing when God so blesses His people that others want what God’s people have. “We have heard that God is with you” (Zech. 8:23). This sounds like what should happen in our local churches when an unbeliever beholds our worship of the Lord. “He will be convinced by all that he is a sinner and will be judged by all, and the secrets of his heart will be laid bare. So he will fall down and worship God, exclaiming, ‘God is really among you!” (1 Cor. 14:24–25, niv)

“I say then,” wrote Paul, “has God cast away His people? Certainly not!” (Rom. 11:1, nkjv) There’s a bright and blessed future for God’s people Israel, even though the nation has been oppressed and persecuted by the Gentiles, some of whom claimed to be Christians. Our privilege is to love them, pray for them, and tell them that their Messiah, Jesus Christ, has come and will save them if they trust in Him. The Gospel of Christ is still “the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek” (Rom. 1:16, nkjv).

Wiersbe, W. W. (1997). Be heroic. "Personal and group study guide included"--P. 4 of cover. An Old Testament study (128). Colorado Springs, Colo.: Chariot Victor Pub.

APPLICATION

Where do you fit into God's global purpose?

PRAYER

Lord, We praise You for Your purpose which is so clear in Scripture. Bring us to application of and action upon Your Word today. In Jesus' name, amen.

Zechariah 5 & 6 - Flying Things and Peace

LINK: Zechariah 5 & 6

BACKGROUND

Sixth and Seventh Visions - Flying Scroll and Woman in a Basket (Zechariah 5)

A scroll the exact size of the tabernacle (30 feet long by 15 feet wide) contains a curse for violators of the third and eighth commandment (Exodus 20:7, 15) probably representing judgment on anyone who violates God's law.

The woman in a basket (In Hebrew it means a large barrel or basket used in household dry measurement ranging in size from 5 to 10 gallons) symbolizes wickedness (the Hebrew word for wickedness is in the feminine gender) that would be banished and sent to Babylonia which was a symbol for wickedness and idolatry (Revelation 17:3-5). Sin's power and penalty have been removed because of Christ. One day, Christ will remove all sin from the earth when He comes again! Then, there will be eternal peace and safety. Come Lord Jesus!

Eighth Vision - The Four Chariots (Zechariah 6)

This vision concludes the eight visions that Zechariah saw on the night of February 15, 519 B.C. These four chariots and horses are similar to the four horseman in Zechariah 1. They come out of two mountains made of bronze with this metal often symbolizing righteous, divine judgment against sin (Rev. 1:15; 2:18). The chariots with their horses represent four spirits (or "winds", Hebrews 1:14) that go out throughout the earth to accomplish His purposes. The chariots suggest the idea of battle and indicate judgment (Is. 66:15). Many believe the colors of the horses are significant and connect it with Revelation 6:1-8 where the red horses symbolize war, the black horses going toward the north (Babylon), famine; and the white horses going after the black horses, death. There is speculation that the dappled horses going toward the south symbolize plagues. Overall, this vision means the God's judgment on Gentile nations for their sins.

Zechariah 6:9-15 tell us of the the rule of Jesus (the "Branch" - see comments from yesterday) who will rule as a Priest on His Kingly throne (A totally perfect Priest-King instead of two separate people who were often corrupt!). This is a definite "Scarlet Thread of Redemption" passage where there will come a time when there will be perfect peace and harmony between civil and religious authority in the person of Jesus Christ!

REFLECTION

I watched the Mumbai Massacre documentary on PBS this week; and I am, once again, struck by the fact that we live in a very unsafe world! It led me to pray for the families of the 170 people killed last November but also the families of the terrorists. My heart ached to hear the survivors tell of the 10 scared, young gunmen controlled by masterminds sitting in safety in Pakistan and giving orders to kill over cell phones. None of the survivors interviewed expressed animosity toward their attackers but rather a "highly grudging sympathy" for them. They came from poor and uneducated backgrounds. One of the gunmen had been sold to the Jihadists for $3,000 US by his own parents!

Author of the excellent book, Three Cups of Tea, Greg Mortenson says, "If you fight terrorism, it's based on fear, but if you promote peace, it's based on hope." Greg has promoted peace by supporting community-based education, especially for girls, in remote regions of Pakistan and Afghanistan. Since 1993, his Central Asia Institute has successfully established 130 schools in Pakistan and Afghanistan which provide 51,000 students, with an emphasis on girls' education. Why girls? Because statistics show that educated mothers are less likely to allow their sons to go on Jihad.

APPLICATION

What have you done to promote peace today?

PRAYER

Lord, we long for the day when we will have perfect peace and security when the Prince of Peace reigns. As we celebrate His first coming this month, help us to be instruments of His peace today. In Jesus' name, amen.

Zechariah 3 & 4 - Clean Garments and Empowered Lives

LINK: Zechariah 3 &4

BACKGROUND

The Fourth Vision - Clean Garments for the High Priest (Zechariah 3)

This vision speaks of Israel's internal cleansing from sin. Unlike the first three visions, this one contains no questions from Zechariah and answers from the angel. Joshua, the high priest who returned with Zerubbabel from Babylon, stands (in his priestly duty) before the the angel of the LORD (some commentators believe this is the preincarnate Christ because he "takes away" sins [v. 4]). Representing the whole nation, Joshua wears "filthy" garments which literally means"excrement-covered" (Commentary on Zechariah by Merrill F Unger, p. 59). Satan accuses Joshua of sin before the angel, but the angel rebukes him stating that Jerusalem had been plucked from the fire of captivity for a purpose. Israel was acquitted and given clean garments symbolizing the forgiveness and restoration of Israel as a priestly nation (Ex. 19:6).

Don't miss the symbolic scarlet thread of redemption message with "the Servant, the Branch, and the Stone" (v. 8-9). Christ is the Servant who came to do the will of the Father (Isaiah 42:1; 49:3-4; 50:10; 52:13; 53:11). Christ is the Branch in that He is from the Davidic branch that will rise to become King (Isaiah 4:2, 11:1 - I will talking about the "Jesse Tree" next week!). As the Stone, He is the cornerstone (Matt. 21:42; 1 Peters 2:6), a stone of stumbling (1 Peter 2:8), rejected stone (Matt. 21:42), smitten stone (Ex. 17:6; 1 Cor. 10:4), and the smiting stone (Dan. 2:34-35). At His first coming, Jesus was a stumbling stone because Israel rejected Him but the foundational cornerstone of the church. When He comes again, He will smite all other kingdoms and establish His kingdom!

The Fifth Vision - The Lampstand and Two Olive Trees (Zechariah 4)

This lampstand was supernaturally supplied with golden oil flowing from two olive trees to the bowl and on to seven channels to each of the seven lights on the lampstand. The two olive trees symbolized Joshua and Zerubbabel in their priestly and kingly roles for the people of God (v. 14). This vision symbolized that, despite the opposition, God would give them success to complete the task of rebuilding the temple and shining His light because of His Spirit and not because of their might and power.

REFLECTION

Satan is never a savory subject, but he is alive and kicking. We see him in his role as accuser in Zechariah 3. We learned in Job 1-2 that he has access to God's throne. Also, we know that He accuses God's people "day and night"(Revelation 12:10).

Satan has grounds for accusation! There is no denying that we are sinful people and deserve condemnation for our sins. Our Righteous Judge cannot ignore our sins, but Jesus Christ is our Advocate as He represents us before the throne of God when we sin (1 John 2:1-2). He was "delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification (Romans 3:25). Satan's accusations mean nothing because Jesus already died for those sins, and He has covered us in His righteousness!

Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus

For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and of death"

"Who will being a charge against God's elect? God is the one who justifies; who is the one who condemns? Christ Jesus is He who died, yes, rather who was raised, who is at the right hand of God, who also intercedes for us (Romans 8:1-2; 33-34).

When "we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness" (1 John 1:9). Then, the case is closed! God cannot condemn us for sins His own Son has already covered. He goes beyond that to cover us in His righteousness. "I will put rich garments on you" (Zechariah 3:4) not garments of our own making like Adam and Eve (Genesis 3:7) but garments in which blood was shed (Genesis 3:21) and suitable to cover us in righteousness.

That is GOOD NEWS!

APPLICATION

Have a time of confession before the Lord and rejoice in His righteousness today. Also, invite God's Spirit to work in and through you to accomplish the impossible!

"Not by might nor by power,

but by My Spirit,"

says the Lord of hosts

(Zechariah 4:6)

PRAYER

Lord, the enemy accuses us day and night, but we have an Advocate, Jesus Christ, the righteous! We praise You that as we confess our sins, You are faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. Lord, despite opposition, you want to empower us by Your Spirit for a purpose. Lord, use us to do the impossible today! In Jesus' name, amen.

Zecharaiah 1 & 2

by Katrina

LINK: Zechariah 1-2

BACKGROUND
Zechariah joined Haggai in Jerusalem two months into Haggai's four-month ministry there. So, for at least two months, they were together there, urging the people to finish the temple. Zechariah had a series of eight night visions from God, recorded in the first six chapters.

Zechariah has more prophecies about the coming Messiah than any other prophet except Isaiah. So, although it begins with a call to repentance, there is a great deal of hope and consolation in this book.

First Vision - Horses and Riders (Zech 1:7-17)
These horsemen were God's angelic army that patrols the earth and carries out God's orders. God also brought comfort to the people saying He would return to Jerusalem with compassion and the temple will be built. He would also punish the nations who tried to annihilate Israel.

Second Vision - Four Horns and Four Craftsmen (Zech 1:18-21)
The horn represents the power of a ruler or a nation. In this case the four horns are the enemies that have tried to destroy the Jews. The craftsmen are nations that God will use to defeat these enemies of the Jews

Third Vision - The Surveyor (Zech 2)
In this vision, God assured the people that He had a plan for their future. He would protect them and destroy their enemies. One day the city would burst at its seams with people and livestock. Ultimately, Jesus Himself will dwell in the midst of the people, and everyone will know that God has sent Him.

REFLECTION/APPLICATION
These chapters remind us once again that God is sovereign over all the nations. He is paying attention to what they do, especially to how they treat Israel, and will judge them. Also, one day there will be a glorious restoration of Jerusalem and Israel. The Messiah will come to cleanse the Jews. Jesus will one day sit on the throne in Jerusalem and rule as the Prince of Peace. Imagine the day when Jesus reigns in glory and there is truly peace in Jerusalem!

PRAYER
Lord, you are sovereign over all nations, all rulers, all peoples on this earth. Nothing goes unnoticed from your eyes. Thank you for providing cleansing through Jesus. We long for the day when Jesus will return. Come, Lord Jesus! Amen.

Haggai - Consider Your Ways! Get up and Build!

by Katrina

LINK: Haggai

BACKGROUND
Haggai was the first prophet sent from God after the Babylonian exile. His place in history is the same time period as Zechariah, Malachi, Nehemiah and Esther. But this little book covers only a space of four months. The messages are short and to the point. I like this guy! :)

Haggai's first message was given on August 29, 520 B.C. during the reign of Darius I. God sent Haggai to Zerubbabel, who had been appointed governor of the province of Judah in the Persian Empire, and to Joshua, the high priest. At this time, many Jews had returned from Babylon to Israel, they had resumed celebrating the feasts, and had laid the foundation for the new temple. But work on the temple had stopped because of opposition from hostile neighbors and because of apathy on the part of the Jews. God sent Haggai with a message to rebuke the people for their indifference about the temple and to get them working on building it again.

The people had built their own houses and had them nicely finished, but they had not finished God's house. God let them know that He was withholding blessing from them as long as they weren't working in completing the temple.

The people listened! They obeyed! And they showed reverence for the Lord! God stirred in the hearts of Zerubbabel, Joshua, and all the remnant who were there, so that they came together to work on the temple.

As they rebuilt, there were some over the age of 75 who remembered the previous temple and all its glory. Solomon's temple was larger and more beautiful, with much more gold and elaborate craftsmanship in it. They were disappointed in the smaller, plainer version. But God encouraged them all to continue working. God Himself would be present with them, and He owned all the silver and gold in the world. One day, God promised, there would be an even more glorious temple than Solomon's.

Then God addressed two questions the people had. (1) When something holy touches something unholy, does it make the unholy item become holy? The answer is "No." And (2) When an unclean person touches anything holy, does it make the holy item unclean? The answer is "Yes." Cleanness cannot be transferred, but defilement can.

The final message God sent through Haggai was that one day He will "shake the heavens and the earth." God will overthrow all earthly rule and all earthly armies. But He honored Zerubbabel as one He had chosen to rule at that time in history.

REFLECTION
"Consider your ways! Go . . . that I may be pleased with it and be glorified," says the LORD. (1:7-8)

What is clean cannot transfer its cleanness that that which is unclean, but what is unclean contaminates that which is clean. (2:12-13)

APPLICATION
Let's consider our own ways. Consider your way of life. Is God pleased with it? Does your life glorify Him? Are you allowing the world to contaminate you? You can not impart your sanctification to those in the world by being a part of the world. It will only make you unclean instead.

PRAYER
Lord, make us holy, set apart for your service. Help us to examine our lives in light of your word and what  you expect of us. Help us to throw off those things that distract us from serving you whole-heartedly. Teach us to keep ourselves unstained by the world so we can be a light to the world. In the name of Jesus, amen.

Psalm 143 - When Life Seems Hopeless

LINK: Psalm 143

by Becky

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

When our hearts are heavy and we are depressed and feeling hopeless, this psalm of David shows us what to do.

The psalm is a prayer to God. David begins by asking God to hear his prayer and he appeals to God’s faithfulness and righteousness, not to his own neediness. That doesn’t mean David isn’t (or that we aren’t) needy, but that God’s response to us flows from who He is, not from how much we need Him.

Look at the David’s description of his circumstances:

• He is acutely aware of his own unrighteousness, of all people’s unrighteousness and sin (2).
• He is pursued by an enemy (3).
• His life is crushed by that enemy (3).
• He sits in darkness, put there by the enemy (3).
• He feels hopeless (4)
• He feels fearful (4).
• His depression is getting deeper; he feels like he is dying (7).
• He doesn’t feel like he can hang on much longer (7).
  

Have you been there? I have. Usually my enemies are not other people. In fact, no matter who the enemy is, we have one chief enemy, Satan. Satan loves to keep me in a place without hope, looking at my circumstances.

What does David do when he is in that pit of depression and hopelessness?

• He cries to God; he prays (1).
• He meditates on what God has done in the past (5).
• He ponders God’s works (5).
• He expresses his longing for God, his need of God (like dry soil that needs rain) (5).
  

So the first thing to do when I am in that pit of fear and hopelessness is to turn my thoughts to God and pray to Him. I then discipline my mind to remember what He has done for me in the past, what He has done for His people in the past. I look around me at the world God has made. I look up at the stars that He created, at the birds, at the colors. I listen to music and thank God for harmony. I think about food and how wonderful it tastes – so much variety! In other words, I take the focus off me and my circumstances and try instead to focus on all God has given. That helps give some perspective.

But David doesn’t stop there. That’s not all we do to get out of that pit.

David asks God to show him His steadfast love in the morning (8). I love that. I love morning. I love meeting God then. David declares his trust in God (8,10). He tells God that he wants to obey Him. He asks Him to show him the way he should go, and asks God to teach him to do His will (8, 10).

We are here to do God’s will, not our own. If we ask for God’s help and guidance, but are unwilling to please him, to walk in the way He wants us to walk, then we are being self-centered. So it’s important to ask Him to remake our priorities.

I love hymns. There is a simple hymn by Benjamin Marshall Ramsey that I first sang in high school that speaks to this. If you want to listen to the tune, here is the link.

Teach me Thy way, O Lord, teach me Thy way!

Thy guiding grace afford, teach me Thy way.

Help me to walk aright, more by faith, less by sight;

Lead me with heav’nly light, teach me Thy way.

When doubts and fears arise, teach me Thy way;

When storms o'erspread the skies, teach me Thy way.

Shine through the cloud and rain, through sorrow, toil, and pain;

Make Thou my pathway plain, teach me Thy way.

Long as my life shall last, teach me Thy way.

Where’er my lot be cast, teach me Thy way.

Until the race is run, until the journey’s done,

Until the crown is won, teach me Thy way!

Hebrews 6 says that our hope, a “sure and steadfast anchor of the soul,” is based on who God is. God doesn’t change. God is righteous and therefore doesn’t lie. He is faithful and keeps His promises. We see so much more than David did. We see how God kept His word to all those saints in the Old Testament. He came in the flesh in the person of Jesus Christ to rescue us from sin. I love that image of hope as an anchor. Hope in God gives us stability in the storms of life.

Psalm 143 ends in hope. God will destroy his servant’s enemies, even that great enemy, Satan (11). Just as He preserves our lives because of who He is, so God will lift up our souls from trouble. He does this for His own name’s sake (10). It is who He is.

If you are in a dark place right now, cry to the Lord just the way David did in this psalm.

Do you thirst for the LORD as parched soil thirsts for the rain? Do you want to walk in the LORD’s way , to do His will – or do you long for your own way?

PRAYER

When we are in that dark and scary place, without hope, help us to turn to you, LORD. You make yourself plain to us if we will only open our eyes and hearts. We praise you for your righteousness and faithfulness – that they anchor those who trust in you in hope. Show us the way to walk; teach us to do your will – for the sake of your name.

Put Ezekiel Back on the Prophets Shelf

You are done with all the major prophets!!! I have to admit that when I started out in this journey, I was most afraid of Ezekiel!

I had never studied it in-depth before. When I got to it in my Bible reading every two years, I was so tuckered out from the long books of Isaiah and Jeremiah that I just wanted to get through it!

I was also afraid of Ezekiel because it was coming during my very busy fall season, but it ended up anchoring me more than making me busier!

I ended up loving the time in this great book!

Three more minor prophets to go, and we will be done with the entire Old Testament! Only 18 more days until Jesus!

Ezekiel 48 - The LORD is There

LINK: Ezekiel 48

BACKGROUND

The final chapter of Ezekiel talks about dividing up the land between the 12 reunited tribes of Israel with the central band of land allotted to the prince, Levites, and city of Jerusalem. The location of all 12 tribes will be different from their locations during Joshua's time (Josh. 13-19).

In the end, the city doomed for destruction will be restored! The most exciting thing is this city will be given a new name, "Yahweh Shammah" which means . . .

"THE LORD IS THERE"

REFLECTION and APPLICATION

And the Lord is here. I can't think of a better way of closing our reading of Ezekiel than by worshiping Him.

PRAYER

LORD, You are here, and we acknowledge that fact. Thank You for Your daily presence with us through Your indwelling Holy Spirit. Help us to live out Your presence to a lost world. In Jesus' name, amen.

Ezekiel 47 - The River from the Temple

LINK: Ezekiel 47

BACKGROUND

This river in this chapter has already been mentioned by Joel (3:18), and will be mentioned when we study Zechariah. Zechariah's recorded that it would divide with half going to the Dead Sea and half flowing to the Mediterranean (Zech. 13:1; 14:8). It is also similar to the river in Revelation 22:1,2 (Lord willing, we will study that on November 23, 2010 - our last day of Bible Book Club!). Some commentators see it as a literal river and others as symbolic of the blessing that will flow from Jerusalem.

Ezekiel recorded that this river flows from the Holy of Holies and to the Dead Sea and out into the Arabah which is the Jordan Valley that runs south from the Sea of Galilee to the Dead Sea and to the Gulf of Aqabah. Each time the guide measured, it was deeper. The Dead Sea water that is six times saltier than the ocean will become fresh and the swamps and marshes will be left for salt. God will provide "fruit for food and leaves for healing" to His people (v. 12).

This chapter concludes with the boundaries of the land of Palestine. It will be similar to the boundaries promised in Number 34:1-12.

REFLECTION

Rivers are amazing. My town is situated on the mighty Willamette River here in Oregon. Last time I went to the river, I picked a bounty of blackberries from its life-giving shores. I love my time by there. I have a 29 year history of going there when I need to get away and talk to God. I always come back refreshed and refocused.

Most cities were settled along rivers because they provided a dependable water supply. Jerusalem was the only great city of the ancient world that was not located on a river. Yet, Ezekiel's vision saw one of immensity far beyond any other ever known. Jesus spoke of the Holy Spirit as being like a river (John 7:37-39) and John had a vision of one in heaven (Revelation 22). Rivers give life to civilizations.

For years, my friend has jogged up in the hills behind her house and prayed for me every time she comes to "my stream ." Periodically, she gives me updates:

April 2: Just wanted to tell you that I am still praying for your Easter Talk. I stopped at your spot this morning. Kinda interesting what my eye was drawn to. The water that your spring feeds is flowing and a beautiful sound, but I noticed that all the wind and storms have knocked a lot of trees down..most not real healthy, but there is new life all around the water coming from your stream. Life after the storms...hope..

Made me very refreshed and hopeful. Certainly your ministry is blessed and blessing others...many will remain unseen.

Wow...quite a picture friend!

May 4: Passed your spot again and prayed over you today.

September 10: how does your stream stay so full...everything around it is dry and it's full...really full!! : ) hmm..

October 18: I will check your stream again tomorrow morning. It's the only one around with water in the heat of the summer...odd...

November 18:I am doing a word study on rhema...word....the spoken word lived out...thinking of how you keep your stream so full..is not the faith and the Word lived out a big part of it?

This stream is indicative of how my life has gone lately. Not that I am any expert on living the abundant life, but I am growing in this area more and more. For 26 years, I have wanted to have a moment-by-moment connection with God so that He would flow through me (see my post telling you about Letters by a Modern Mystic from last week). It seems like every year it has gotten better and better. About three and a half years ago, God removed some major unhealthy trees in my life that have allowed my stream to flow even more! Being in His presence by staying in His life-giving Word has also continued to help the streams to flow.

It is all about being connected to Him and allowing His Spirit to flow through us. It is about overflow that through the years becomes an ever deepening river meant to continue to flow to bless beyond its borders. It is living out the life of Jesus who proclaimed during the water ceremony of the Feast of Tabernacles, "If anyone is thirsty, let him come to Me and drink. He who believes in Me, as the Scripture said, ‘From his innermost being will flow rivers of living water’" (John 7:37b-38, NASB95).

It has been an incredible year, not because I am anybody superior or sinless but because God is flowing. He always will if we let Him.

APPLICATION

To a "stream assessment" today. Talk to God about it. In what ways are you inhibiting the flow? What enhances it?

PRAYER

Flow through us God. We ask this in Jesus' name, amen.

Ezekiel 45 & 46 - Worship Central

LINK: Ezekiel 45 & 46

BACKGROUND

These chapters deal with the allotment of the land, the prince, and regulations for offerings and feasts.

The land would be at the present site of Jerusalem and would contain a sacred district 8.3 x 6.6 miles that would include the temple described in chapters 40-43 and housing for the priests and Levites. This is different from their allotment in Joshua 21:1-42, where they were scattered throughout Israel. Adjoining this land was to be the city (1.7 x 8.3 miles).

The prince would have the land bordering this district. He would be a married man with sons (46:16-18). He would be a civil ruler, but most of his functions would be religious. He was not to oppress his people as in times past.

Ezekiel 45:13-46:24 contain instructions offerings and holy days. For the offering, specific amounts of produce were to be given to the prince who would turn around and use them for temple sacrifices (13-17). This prince could not be Christ, for he makes a sin offering for himself and people of the land (44:3; 45:22). This is something Christ would not do. This prince provided sacrifices for the dedication of the sanctuary, the Sabbaths, Passover, Tabernacles, and at the New Moons. An explanation of the temple sacrifices can be found HERE. The year of freedom (Jubilee) is explained HERE.

REFLECTION and APPLICATION

Worship was to be the center of everything that Israel did. Is it the center of everything that you do?

PRAYER

Lord, be the center of everything that we do. Lead us into worship. We ask this in Jesus' name, amen.

Ezekiel 44 - Prince, Levites, and Priests

LINK: Ezekiel 44

BACKGROUND

Ezekiel was led out of the inner court altar area to the east gate of the outer court. This gate opened toward the Kidron Valley and the Mount of Olives. He had just seen the LORD enter through this gate as His glory filled the temple (43:4). Now, that gate was to be shut because the LORD had entered through it.

There is different speculation about who the prince could be in 44:3. Some commentators think it is Christ. Others say it couldn't be Christ because he offers sacrifices (46:4). Many commentators believe it is the literal King David based on 34:24 and 37:24-25. Some think it is an unknown just and fair (45:8) ruler of the city. Others view it as a picture of Christ offering Himself as a sacrifice of his own life.

Ezekiel would go back into the inner court and see the glory of the LORD filling the temple again and it caused him to worship! God reiterated here that only those prepared for worship could enter the temple. Therefore, no foreigners could come. In 47:22-23, we will see that aliens are allowed if they follow the law (Leviticus 24:22; Numbers 15:29).

The remainder of the chapter involves the instructions to the Levites and priests. Because of the sin of the Levites prior to the captivity, they would only be allowed to serve in secondary roles and not be allowed to serve as priests. See 1 Chronicles 15:16; 16:4; and 23:28-31 to see what their tasks were at the inception of Solomon's temple.

The only Levites who would be allowed to function as priests were the descendants of Zadok. He was chief priest during Solomon's reign (1 Kings 1:32-35; 2:26-27, 35). The people had sinned, but this line had remained faithful through the years of idolatry leading up to the Captivity.

The remainder of the chapter covers priestly regulations originally given to God's people during the wilderness wandering in Exodus and Leviticus. All these regulations set the priest apart as holy and clean (44:23).

REFLECTION - Looking to God and Not the Culture

I want to be like the line of Zadok who continued to remain faithful to God despite the fact that the rest of God's people had gone AWOL! When we look to God for our standard of holiness, we can be like a fish swimming upstream, even among believers. That can be exhausting. How amazing that the line of Zadok continued to swim through all of those years of Israel's idolatry!

I had a mom over here the other day sad that her daughter was pushing to go do something because "all the other Christian kids are doing it," but it was just not a godly thing to do! This mom kept saying, "We are so deceived in our culture." I had to agree.

The line of Zadok looked to God for their standard of measure in order to learn the difference between what is holy and common (profane). They were to teach this to others also (v. 23), just as this mom can model and teach holiness to her teenage daughter regardless of what everyone else is doing.

APPLICATION

I have recommended this before, and I will recommend it again: The Pursuit of Holiness by Jerry Bridges

PRAYER

Lord, You are holy. Teach us how to live holy lives in today's world. We ask this in Jesus' name, amen.

Ezekiel 43 - The Glory of the Lord

by Katrina

LINK: Ezekiel 43

BACKGROUND
Ezekiel had seen the glory of the Lord depart from the temple at the east gate (Ezek 1:18-19). Now, his guide took him to the east gate where he saw the glory of the Lord come from the east and enter the temple through the east gate. God's glory, once again, filled the house of the Lord. He claimed His place on the throne, and told Ezekiel that He would dwell there and rule forever.

Then the altar was measured and the procedure for consecrating it was given to Ezekiel. Consecration was the symbolic removal of sin. Then the priests would once again be able to offer burnt offerings and peace offerings that would be accepted by God. You might remember from our study of Leviticus that the burnt offering represented dedicating oneself to God. It's symbolic of giving all on the altar. The peace offering is also called the fellowship offering. It is an expression of worship and represents the relationship one has with the Lord.

REFLECTION
Jesus's death on the cross was the ultimate fulfillment of all the sacrifices described in Leviticus. Both of these offerings - burnt and peace - are ones that believers can give today. We don't use an altar and slaughter animals, but we offer our lives to the Lord as our burnt offering. And we offer praise and walk in fellowship with Him as our peace/fellowship offering.

APPLICATION
Offer yourself to the Lord today for His service. Spend some time in fellowship with Him.

PRAYER
Lord, we thank You for being the sacrifice that atones for our sin. I give my life to You to love and serve You will all my heart, soul, and strength. Thank You for bringing me into fellowship with You forever. Amen.

Ezekiel 41-42 Temple Measurements

by Katrina

LINK: Ezekiel 41 and 42

BACKGROUND
This is a continuation of chapter 40, where Ezekiel watches the measuring of various sections of the temple. At the end of chapter 42, the measuring tool is changed to a reed and the overall measurements of the temple are given. Five hundred reeds is about one mile, so it's about a mile on each side.

This is a "keep reading" day. Tomorrow we'll discuss the glory of the Lord and the altar.

Psalms 140-141 - Perspectives on the Tongue

by Becky

LINK: Psalm 140 and Psalm 141

Both these psalms deal with the use of the tongue – with verbal sin.

BACKGROUND AND REFLECTION

Psalm 140

David faced enemies on the battlefield throughout his life, so understood violence. He had needed God’s protection many times. This psalm, though, asks God for protection from a different kind of enemy, those who do violence with their words. The psalm implies that these enemies weren’t from a godless nation, either, but were from among the nation of Israel. David compares their tongues to a serpent’s tongue, to the venom of the asp. Both animals’ tongues sting and poison, and so do these people’s tongues. Their words demonstrate the evil in their hearts. They want to cause trouble. They use their speech to trap and to stir up animosity. They slander others for their own gain.

David makes clear his trust in the LORD here. He asks God to deliver, preserve, and guard him. He knows that God has done it in the past and he’s confident that He will do it again.

The psalm asks that those enemies be punished in a way that fits their crime. David asks God to let them be punished through their own words. Let “the mischief of their lips overwhelm them.” (9) These people bring about evil through their speech and David wants them caught up by the evil that they bring about.

So how is that proper for one of God’s people to pray that way? First, it is clear from the psalm that these “enemies” intend to do damage. They want to hurt and wound and cause trouble. The prayer faces circumstances the way they really are. These people want to hurt God’s servant and want to exalt themselves over God. If they succeed they will do great damage. It’s also a just prayer. David is simply asking for justice. Finally, it’s clear that this prayer isn’t a vengeful or vindictive response to personal injury, but is an appeal to God based on faith. David doesn’t seek vengeance himself; He leaves these evil people in God’s hands.

One reason I love the psalms is for their honesty. This is an honest prayer. We can’t get to real love without honesty, without going through justice first.

The prayer ends with a declaration of trust in the LORD followed by a response:

“I know that the Lord will maintain the cause of the afflicted,
and will execute justice for the needy.
Surely the righteous shall give thanks to your name;
the upright shall dwell in your presence.”

David knows that God is in charge and that He will do what is right. Rather than stewing about injury or figuring out how to get even, the righteous (those made right with God through faith) live in God’s presence and give thanks to Him.

The theme of the next psalm, Psalm 141, is a natural extension of what David dealt with here in Psalm 140. I am so glad that it follows immediately because I think it shows how we are often tempted.

Psalm 141

After praying about the evil done by others with their speech (Psalm 140), David dives right into his own heart and turns to the LORD.

David had been hurt by the words of others. He is coming to God with his evening prayers, laying his heart before the LORD. He is tempted to use his own mouth as a weapon, to hurt those who hurt him.

So he does the only thing any of us can do in that situation. He prays honestly and asks God to guard his lips, to set a watch over his mouth, to keep his heart from wanting to repay evil with evil. He realizes that he can easily be caught up in the net of sin and snared by his own words. He doesn’t want to be like those who are sinning with their speech.

There is a kind of parenthesis in the middle of this psalm. David makes clear that there is a difference between slanderous words meant to injure and the admonition of someone who holds him accountable:

"Let a righteous man strike me—it is a kindness;
let him rebuke me—it is oil for my head;
let my head not refuse it." (5)

It is not ever enjoyable to be rebuked, but David recognizes that it is a kindness, even a kind of blessing, to be rebuked by someone who loves the LORD, who is righteous.

David turns to the LORD for refuge and defense.

That’s what we should do.

APPLICATION

I don’t know which side of this use of the tongue issue you find yourself on today. Maybe both.

Perhaps you are using your words as weapons to sting and hurt someone else. If so, stop! Turn to the LORD and ask forgiveness and ask Him to guard your mouth.

When others spread gossip about us or say things that aren’t true about us, it hurts. Frequently we want to get even. But that’s not the response the LORD wants us to have. Our response shouldn’t be to repay in like kind. We should recognize what has happened. We have been sinned against. Then we get the chance to turn to our Lord Jesus, who surely understands what it is to be slandered. Like David, we can turn to Him for refuge and ask Him for justice. Leave the desire for justice with Him (and the anger and bitterness).

And even more, we know that Jesus died for us, and not because we are good and deserve it! “While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Rom. 5:8) He understands what it is to be slandered, yet He not only refused to reply in like kind, but He took on the punishment for those who have been guilty of it. If He can forgive, then surely those of us who are called by His name can, too. So do that.

PRAYER

Father, we ask that you set a guard over not only our mouths and lips, but that you watch our hearts, too. Give us honest hearts that look to you for refuge when we are gossiped about or slandered. We don’t want to strike out in like kind. Help us to love as you love. Help us not to gloss over sin, but to recognize it and then deal with it in a way that pleases you and reflects you.

Ezekiel 40 - A Refocus on God

LINK: Ezekiel 40

BACKGROUND

We are on the home stretch of Ezekiel! The last nine chapters of this book explain the restoration of the temple and its ministry, boundaries of the tribes in the land, and the return of God's glory.

God's people had defiled the temple because of their evil practices, and the glory of the Lord had departed. Israel needed to return to worship of the one true God. God gave Ezekiel all the details of this temple in order to focus the attention of His people on His holiness and to bring them back to a place of repentance for their evil practices.

So far in this year's Bible reading, Israel has had two sanctuaries: the tabernacle of Moses (Exodus 35-40) replaced by the temple of Solomon (1 Kings 6). Both times, the glory of the Lord filled them (Exodus 40: 34; 2 Chronicles 5:14) and left them (1 Samuel 4:19-22; Ezekiel 9:3; 10:4; 11:22-23). Solomon's temple was destroyed by the Babylonians in 586 B.C.

The third sanctuary (temple) was built after the Captivity in 516 B.C. and did not meet Ezekiel's plan (Haggai 2:3; Zechariah 4:10). After this, it was renovated during Herod the Great's reign around 19 B.C. and was the temple during Jesus' time. This temple was destroyed by the Romans in 70 A.D. The present day Islamic shrine known as the Dome of the Rock (built in 691 A.D.) sits there now. There is no evidence that the glory of God resided in either of these two temples, and neither of these seem to be the temple Ezekiel envisioned.

The vision of Ezekiel's temple has been interpreted several ways:

1) This is the temple that should have been built after the Captivity in 516 B.C., but the plan was not followed due to disobedience (43:2-10).

2) It is a literal temple to be rebuilt during the millennial (1000) year reign of Christ.

3) It parallels John's vision in Revelation 21.

4) It is symbolic of the true worship of God by the Christian church.

5) It is a spiritual representation of the church.

6) It is symbolic of the future when God will reign eternally and His presence and blessing will fill the whole earth (Habakkuk 2:14).

While I could take one of these "positions," I won't. I think getting lost in the details would lose the point of the vision in which we can agree upon: It is a vision of God's perfect plan for His people where . . .

1) Worship is at the heart of everything we would do

2) His presence is part of our everyday existence

3) Blessing to the whole world would come out of the above two!

Ezekiel had his vision in 573 B.C., twenty-five years into the captivity and fourteen years after the fall of Jerusalem by the Babylonians. It was either April 28 (the first day of Passover) or October 23 (the Day of Atonement). He saw a man with a measuring rod that was about 10 1/2 feet long (based on a long cubit of twenty-one inches). When one measured property, it meant you were claiming it for yourself. Zechariah also saw a man measuring the temple meaning that the temple and the city would one day be restored (Zech. 2). God also commanded the Apostle John to measure the temple in Jerusalem before it was run over by the Gentiles (Rev. 11). The temple was God's and would one day be restored no matter what man would do to it.

Who was this man with the measuring rod? Some commentators believe he was the angel of 9:1-11 or one like him. Others believe he may have been Christ because he speaks like God spoke to Ezekiel by calling him the "Son of man." Regardless, the man led Ezekiel on a "tour" of the future temple giving precise details. In this temple, the women's court and "court of the Gentiles" with a separating wall (Ephesians 2:14) were not mentioned. In Herod's temple, there was an inscription on the separating wall that forbid Gentiles from entering into the temple. This temple did not have a dividing wall because it has been God's desire that His house be a house of prayer for men and women of all nations (Mark 11:17; Isaiah 56:7). Apparently, this would be true in this temple!

Some commentators do not believe this was a description of a Millennium temple because the sacrifices were mentioned (vv. 38-43) and Christ did away with the need for Levitical sacrifices. Others argue that the sacrifices never took away human sin and only Christ could do that (Heb. 10:1-4, 10). They point to Jewish believers who continued to take part in temple worship (Acts 2:46; 3:1; 5:42) and offer sacrifices (Acts 21:26) and viewed them as reminders of Christ's death. All good points!

REFLECTION

We could get lost in the minutia of details and debate points about the timing of this temple and miss the point that the purpose of the temple was to focus the attention of His people on His holiness and to bring them back to a place of repentance for their evil practices. It was the place where God's glory dwelt, and the Jews were to focus all their life around it.

We are to focus and center our entire life around God too. It has been the goal of my life and cry of my heart since the early 80's to live a 24/7/365 kind of focus on God. It has been a long journey, but the book, Letters by a Modern Mystic, has really encouraged me:

It records Frank Laubach's spiritual experiment to live in a conscious moment-by-moment communion with God. It speaks to the heart of this whole passage.

If you don't want to buy it, you can get it online in two parts:

LETTERS BY A MODERN MYSTIC

THE GAME OF MINUTES

APPLICATION

Try focusing your whole day around God today! It might be helpful to read just the first one or two letters on Frank's journey. These short letters will encourage and inspire you.

PRAYER

Lord, we acknowledge You as Lord and King. We invite You to be the center of everything we do today. Be our focus of worship. Make us aware of Your presence in every waking minute of today. We ask this in Jesus' name, amen.

Ezekiel 39 - Judgment of Gog and His Allies

LINK: Ezekiel 39

BACKGROUND

The story of the battle continues. God will miraculously intervene in this battle so that His holy name will be "known . . . among my people Israel . . and the nations" (v. 7). The nations aligned against Israel will be annihilated. Then, Gog and his hordes will be properly buried there. Anything not buried will be eaten by carrion-eating birds and beasts. Consequently, the land will be made holy (Number 19:14-16).

God destroyed this invading army to protect His people and to demonstrate His glory among the Gentiles, He said He will "show Himself holy through them in the sight of many nations (v. 27). Finally, God will pour out His Spirit on the house of Israel (36:27; 37:14; Joel 2:28). "The ultimate result of the battle with God will be Israel's national repentance and spiritual restoration" (The Bible Knowledge Commentary: Old Testament, p. 1302). We don't know when this will be, but I can't wait!

REFLECTION

Whew! It was chapters like 38 and 39 that made me a little leery of tackling Ezekiel. We don't know the exact location of Magog. We don't know when these things will happen. We don't know a ton of things, but we do know that God is in control, and He wants us all to know that He will show Himself holy in the sight of all the nations and that HE is the LORD! That is enough for me to just respond in worship rather than speculation. How about you?

APPLICATION

Don't waste your time in speculation and short-change God on the worship He deserves today!

PRAYER

You are the LORD our God! We worship You because You are 100% holy and 100% mighty and 100% sovereign in and over all people and world events. We humbly acknowledge that You are God and we are not. Teach us to tremble and be in awe of You. We ask this in Jesus' name, amen.

P.S. The DAILY BIBLE PODCAST overlapped with us to today in their Bible reading. I have really enjoyed his reading!

Ezekiel 38 - Attack of Gog and His Allies

LINK: Ezekiel 38

BACKGROUND

Ezekiel described an alliance between Magog (a great power from the north, v. 15) and Persia (Iran), Ethiopia, Libya, Gomer (Ukraine), and Togarmah (southeast of the Black Sea). There has been great speculation about where Magog might be located, but we do not know! We do know that Noah's son, Japheth had a son names Magog (Genesis 10:2). Magog means the "land of Gog" and is located somewhere north near the Caspian and Black Sea. Present day Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Russia are in this general area. Meshech and Tubal are mentioned, and these two places are located in eastern Asia Minor (Central Turkey). These nations will ally and be brought together against Israel, but this is so that the Lord can show His might and power over these strong nations: "O Gog, I will bring you against my land, so that the nations may know me when I show myself holy through you before their eyes" (v. 16). He will also bear witness to a watching world:". . . so I will show my greatness and my holiness, and I will make myself known in the sight of many nations. Then they will know that I am the LORD" (v. 23).

Some have tried to say that these are events at the end of human history, but there are too many differences between Revelation 20 and Ezekiel 38 to make that kind of case. No matter what your view, I think the point of this chapter is that God will make his greatness and holiness known to all!

REFLECTION

Here is another verse that points to God's desire for "many nations" to know His might and power. Take note, and we will finish this up tomorrow.

PRAYER

We praise You as the Lord almighty. We acknowledge Your rule and reign over all the earth. May Your kingdom come and Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.

Ezekiel 37 - "The Foot Bone's Connected to the Ankle Bone . . . "

LINK: Ezekiel 37

BACKGROUND

Ezekiel's vision of the valley of dry bones is a great summary of the whole book! The people in captivity were spiritually disconnected and dry. This was the valley of judgment because they did not turn and repent from their sins, but there would come a future day when they would become spiritually connected and God would breath new life into them as they united under one King and as one nation (the two "sticks" of 15-17 are the divided kingdoms of Israel and Judah). This would be both a spiritual and physical restoration, and the king would be the Messiah, Jesus. The Messiah was often called "David" (v. 24) because he was David's descendant, but, unlike David, he would be a perfect King (Revelation 17:14; 19:16; 21:1ff).

REFLECTION and APPLICATION

The "word of the LORD" breathed life in to this valley of dead, dry bones, and he can breath life into our lives as well:

Of course, there’s a spiritual application in this vision for any individual or ministry that is in need of new life from God. Too often God’s people are like that standing army, lifelike but not alive. How does the life come? Through the Holy Spirit using the faithful proclamation of the Word of God. Said Charles Spurgeon, “Decayed churches can most certainly be revived by the preaching of the Word, accompanied by the coming of the heavenly breath from the four winds" (The Metropolitan Tabernacle Pulpit, vol. 10, 426). From time to time, in response to His people’s prayers, the Lord has seen fit to send a new “breath of life” to His church and His servants, and for that blessing we should be praying today. (Wiersbe, W. W. [2000]. Be Reverent, p. 166)

Let's pray toward that end for all of us!

PRAYER

Lord, we thank You that Your Word is life to us and You have given it to us in print, video, and audio form. We pray that You would breath life into anyone who is reading this and dry and disconnected. Would You draw them to Yourself by the Holy Spirit and through Your Word? We ask this in Jesus' name, amen.

Ezekiel 36 - Restoration

by Katrina

LINK: Ezekiel 36

BACKGROUND
Now Ezekiel's prophecy goes far beyond the destruction of Jerusalem, beyond the end of the captivity in Babylon, even beyond today. Ezekiel looks to a future restoration of Israel. There will come a time when God will gather His people in the land He promised to Abraham. God will cleanse the people and put His Spirit in them. And God will make the land productive again, producing flocks, herds, and harvests, and man will multiply and fill up the land. No longer will other nations insult Israel.

At that time, the people will finally see their sin for what it is. They will recognize their evil ways as evil, and they will loathe their sins. They will no longer be stubborn in disobedience but will walk in obedience to God. Their hearts will be changed.

REFLECTION
Notice God's reason for all this restoration. "It is not for your sake, O house of Israel, that I am about to act, but for My holy name, which you have profaned among the nations where you went. And I will vindicate the holiness of My great name . . . . Then the nations will know that I am the LORD," declares the Lord God, "when I prove myself holy among you in their sight." (vs 22-23) And, "I am not doing this for your sake," declares the Lord God. (vs 32) "Then they will know that I am the LORD." (vs 38)

God's purpose is that all the world will know that He is LORD! He has said that over and over again in this book. He will not allow His name to be profaned forever, although He does seem to wait a long time before running out of patience and taking action. That is for our benefit, for sure! But one day, He will take action and will clear His name for the entire world to see. Everyone will know that God is the LORD of all.

PRAYER
Lord, you are the Holy God and Lord over all! We bow before you and worship you. Cleanse our hearts and make them soft in obedience to you. Let us always be aware that you truly are Lord over all and live our lives accordingly. Help us to proclaim it to others as well. Amen.

Ezekiel 34 & 35 - Shepherds, Sheep, and one More Judgment

by Katrina

LINK: Ezekiel 34 and 35

BACKGROUND

Ezekiel 34

The LORD directed Ezekiel to prophesy against the "shepherds of Israel." This metaphor refers to the leaders of the nation, and the "sheep" refers to the people of the nation. The leaders had both exploited and abused the people, rather than protecting and caring for them as they should have done. These "shepherds" filled their own purses and bellies at the expense of the "sheep." They did not care for the sick or weak but took advantage of them. They did not seek those who got lost so they could care for them. Rather, they ruled them by keeping them "under their thumb." Now the "sheep" were scattered everywhere, and the "shepherds" don't even care that they have become prey everywhere.

But God will rescue the poor sheep and not leave them to be destroyed. He Himself will gather them and bring them back home. He will provide for them and protect them. He will care for their wounds and strengthen the sick. And God will distinguish between those sheep who are really His and those who merely think they are His.

Then, one day, a son of David, Jesus, will rule the nation of Israel. They will live secure and safe. They will know that God has delivered them, and they will have no fear of enemies. Even wild animals will be no threat to them. There will be no more famine in the land. Neither will there be insults from other nations. They will all know that the LORD is their God and that He is with them and that they belong to Him.

Ezekiel 35

Mt. Seir is another name for Edom. You will remember that the Edomites are the descendants of Esau, Jacob's twin brother. The hatred between Jacob and Esau was passed down from one generation to the next. Here, God reminds them of their sin against Israel and proclaims judgment on them. Edom had rejoiced arrogantly at the fall of Israel, but now the nation of Edom will fall. God will make Edom desolate.

REFLECTION
I love these shepherd passages! Jesus is the shepherd of the nation of Israel (Matthew 2:6). And one day, He will return again, gather the nation of Israel in their land, and rule on the throne of David. In the meantime, Jesus calls Himself the "Good Shepherd" who takes good care of His sheep (John 10:1-18). In John 10:16, Jesus made it clear that besides the sheep of Israel, He has other sheep to bring into the fold. This refers to Gentile believers. The author of Hebrews tells us that this great Shepherd works in believers and equips them to do His will (Hebrews 13:20-21).

APPLICATION
The Shepherd cares so much for the sheep that He laid down His life for them. Anyone else who tries to get to the sheep is not the owner and will lead them astray. These impostors allow the sheep to be harmed or will harm them themselves. But Jesus is the Good Shepherd, caring for and protecting the sheep. The sheep who truly belong to God hear His voice and listen to Him. Take time today to "tune in" to the Good Shepherd. Hear His voice and do His will.

PRAYER
Good Shepherd, thank you for caring so much that you laid down your life for me and made me one of your sheep. Teach me to listen and hear your voice. Let me not be distracted by other voices around me that may lead me astray. Equip me to do your will, in the name of the Great Shepherd Jesus, amen.