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.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Monday, November 16, 2009
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.
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.
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Psalm 139 - How NOT To Be a Practical Atheist
by Becky
LINK: Psalm 139
LINK: Psalm 139
How often do those of us who claim the name of Chirst live as if we don’t trust in Him? We live as practical atheists. We doubt His concern for us and forget about Him and His involvment in our lives; we live as if He doesn’t exist.
I cannot tell you how many times I have turned to this psalm as I have struggled with various fears and doubts.
Here’s one time:
APPLICATION
If you doubt God’s love and concern for you, this psalm speaks to that. He examines us and knows our hearts. He knows each of us intimately. He is the one who made us who we are! His thoughts about each of us outnumber the grains of sand!
PRAYER
test me, and know my thoughts.
Point out anything in me that offends you,
and lead me along the path of everlasting life. Amen.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Ezekiel 28 - Tyre & Sidon
by Katrina
LINK: Ezekiel 28
BACKGROUND
There are four parts to this chapter:
The prince of Tyre refers to the ruler of the city of Tyre at the time of the prophecy. The reigning king at that time was Ittobaal II. Because of his very great pride, God will use strangers (Babylonians) to bring judgment on him.
The king of Tyre in the second section most likely refers to Satan. We know from 1 Chronicles 21 (Satan was behind David's census), Daniel 10 (the prince of the kingdom of Persia delayed the angel Michael), and Matthew 4:8-10 (Satan tempted Jesus to worship him) that Satan wants to control nations and their leaders. This passage tells of his creation as a very beautiful creature and as an obedient angel of God. But his pride and selfish ambitions led him to sin, leading God to cast him out. Here he is the motivation and strength behind the human prince of Tyre. One day, his judgment will be completed with consuming fire.
The third section tells of God's judgment on the city of Sidon. This city was about 25 miles north of Tyre, along the Mediterranean coast. The people of Sidon were long-time enemies of Israel, but now their opposition would end. God would be glorified with the destruction of Sidon! How? Because the destruction would demonstrate God's holiness by rejecting the false gods and the sin of the city.
Finally, this chapter concludes with a promise to Israel. God will one day gather His people from where they are scattered back to their land. The nations will see His holiness in them, and they will live securely and prosperously in the land that God had promised to Jacob.
REFLECTION
This part of verse 25 struck me, "and (I) shall manifest My holiness in them (Israel) in the sight of the nations." In other words, the nations will see the holiness of God by observing His people Israel. Today, the angelic beings see the "manifold wisdom of God" through observing the church. It is part of God's eternal purpose through Jesus to demonstrate Himself through the church. (Ephesians 3:8-11) Wow! Part of the reason God saves us is to demonstrate who He is to the angelic beings!
APPLICATION
Do people see Jesus in you? Are you demonstrating who God is by the way you live?
PRAYER
Lord, we know you are far above all power and authority on this earth, as well as in the spiritual realm that we cannot see. Your purposes reach far beyond our lives into eternity. You demonstrate your holiness, wisdom, power, and glory in all that you do. Let us be humble before you, not like the ruler of Tyre who was arrogant. And let us live in such a way as to point people to you. In the name of Jesus, amen.
LINK: Ezekiel 28
BACKGROUND
There are four parts to this chapter:
- fall of the prince of Tyre (vs 1-10
- lament over the king of Tyre (vs 11-19)
- judgment on Sidon (vs 20-24)
- promise to Israel (vs 25-26)
The prince of Tyre refers to the ruler of the city of Tyre at the time of the prophecy. The reigning king at that time was Ittobaal II. Because of his very great pride, God will use strangers (Babylonians) to bring judgment on him.
The king of Tyre in the second section most likely refers to Satan. We know from 1 Chronicles 21 (Satan was behind David's census), Daniel 10 (the prince of the kingdom of Persia delayed the angel Michael), and Matthew 4:8-10 (Satan tempted Jesus to worship him) that Satan wants to control nations and their leaders. This passage tells of his creation as a very beautiful creature and as an obedient angel of God. But his pride and selfish ambitions led him to sin, leading God to cast him out. Here he is the motivation and strength behind the human prince of Tyre. One day, his judgment will be completed with consuming fire.
The third section tells of God's judgment on the city of Sidon. This city was about 25 miles north of Tyre, along the Mediterranean coast. The people of Sidon were long-time enemies of Israel, but now their opposition would end. God would be glorified with the destruction of Sidon! How? Because the destruction would demonstrate God's holiness by rejecting the false gods and the sin of the city.
Finally, this chapter concludes with a promise to Israel. God will one day gather His people from where they are scattered back to their land. The nations will see His holiness in them, and they will live securely and prosperously in the land that God had promised to Jacob.
REFLECTION
This part of verse 25 struck me, "and (I) shall manifest My holiness in them (Israel) in the sight of the nations." In other words, the nations will see the holiness of God by observing His people Israel. Today, the angelic beings see the "manifold wisdom of God" through observing the church. It is part of God's eternal purpose through Jesus to demonstrate Himself through the church. (Ephesians 3:8-11) Wow! Part of the reason God saves us is to demonstrate who He is to the angelic beings!
APPLICATION
Do people see Jesus in you? Are you demonstrating who God is by the way you live?
PRAYER
Lord, we know you are far above all power and authority on this earth, as well as in the spiritual realm that we cannot see. Your purposes reach far beyond our lives into eternity. You demonstrate your holiness, wisdom, power, and glory in all that you do. Let us be humble before you, not like the ruler of Tyre who was arrogant. And let us live in such a way as to point people to you. In the name of Jesus, amen.
Monday, November 9, 2009
Ezekiel 27 - Lament for Tyre
by Katrina
LINK: Ezekiel 27
BACKGROUND
REFLECTION/APPLICATION
No matter how wealthy or powerful a nation or a person is, God is still more powerful. He is truly sovereign over all kings and rulers and powers of the world, and no one is invincible in His eyes. This truth applies on a personal as well as a national level. In fact, it can apply at any level of life. Our pride will get us in trouble every time! Let's reflect today on God's sovereignty over us and adjust ourselves, our own thinking, to that of submission and humility.
PRAYER
Lord, your name is above all names, your power above all powers, your rule above all rulers, your wealth above all wealth, you are the LORD GOD! There is no other besides you. Give us a glimpse of you and let us be humbled before you. You are the glorious one who gives us life and being. We worship you! Amen.
LINK: Ezekiel 27
BACKGROUND
North of Israel, along the coast of the Mediterranean Sea, was the city of Tyre. It was a major seaport city, an important trade center, a significant player in world commerce. Many of the materials to build Solomon's temple came from this area. Chapter 26 told of Tyre's coming destruction, and chapter 27 is a funeral dirge over the city. In reality, Ezekiel would not grieve over Tyre's destruction, but this dirge is a literary expression of the coming events. Since Tyre was such a maritime city, it is metaphorically described as a ship in this dirge. Let's take a look at it.
The dirge begins with a description of the building of the ship (vs 3-7). It was made of the finest materials from various neighboring countries. It was beautiful and much admired by the nations.
The ship was staffed with rowers and pilots (vs 8-9). The crew came from surrounding cities, representing some of the nations that made it possible for Tyre to be so successful.
The image briefly shifts from the ship metaphor to the city of Tyre itself (vs 10-11). Tyre had an army of mercenary soldiers from other countries. They were paid to protect the city and its shipping enterprise. They did not expect the city to be attacked, because they hung their helmets and shields on the walls as decorations.
Next (vs 12-25) is a description of the trade business that Tyre did along the Mediterranean coast. They traded with everyone along the sea, selecting the best of each type of merchandise.
The metaphorical ship of Tyre was filled with goods and was very glorious (vs 25), but alas! The rowers brought it into the open water, right into a hurricane, where it is broken up and destroyed (vs 26-36). The east wind that destroys the ship (vs 26) refers to Babylon. The beautiful ship, its valuable cargo, and its entire crew would all be lost in the sea. All the surrounding people will feel the economic repercussions of this loss and will be appalled. Tyre would be no more.
REFLECTION/APPLICATION
No matter how wealthy or powerful a nation or a person is, God is still more powerful. He is truly sovereign over all kings and rulers and powers of the world, and no one is invincible in His eyes. This truth applies on a personal as well as a national level. In fact, it can apply at any level of life. Our pride will get us in trouble every time! Let's reflect today on God's sovereignty over us and adjust ourselves, our own thinking, to that of submission and humility.
PRAYER
Lord, your name is above all names, your power above all powers, your rule above all rulers, your wealth above all wealth, you are the LORD GOD! There is no other besides you. Give us a glimpse of you and let us be humbled before you. You are the glorious one who gives us life and being. We worship you! Amen.
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Psalm 138 - Wholehearted Thanks
by Becky
LINK: Psalm 138
LINK: Psalm 138
BACKGROUND
We return to psalms of David for a few weeks.
In verse 1, David says that “before the gods I sing your praise.” The word translated gods there is elohim, which sometimes means “rulers” or “judges” and sometimes means “divine ones” or “angels.” David could be talking about powerful heavenly beings, the angels, here, which is how the Greek Septuagint understood it. Or he could be speaking of the false gods of the nations around them. Or he could be talking about powerful people – people like judges. Because of the context I am inclined to understand it as either angels or powerful people. The point is that David is singing God’s praise before those with power.
REFLECTION
David offers wholehearted thanks here to the LORD for His steadfast love and faithfulness. He weaves into these words his own experience. He speaks of God’s work in past, present, and future.
David had experienced God’s answer to his prayers: “my strength of soul you increased.” It doesn’t say, by the way, that God removed whatever was troubling David. God answered and increased David’s soul strength.
Someday in the future, all the kings of the earth will recognize God’s power, and will thank Him. God’s glory is that great. Though God is so great that powerful people will bow before him, it’s not the powerful that He pays attention to. God is close to those who know they bring nothing to Him – those lowly in heart.
David knows that in the midst of trouble God preserves him and rescues him. He knows this because he knows His Lord – what He has promised and His character (v 2) and because David has experienced God’s strength in the past (v 3).
The last verse of this psalm is one that we can hang onto!
“The LORD will fulfill his purpose for me;
your steadfast love, O LORD, endures forever.
Do not forsake the work of your hands.”
APPLICATION
David was convinced that God was at work in him. Why? What gave him that conviction?
Are you that convinced? How much of David’s confession can you make your own?
I hope you'll meditate on this psalm today and make it your own.
PRAYER
LORD, we know you have made us and that you are a God of purpose. You have a plan for each of your children and your love never goes away. Help us to know you, LORD, so that like David, our feet can stand on the solid ground of your character and pomises even in the midst of trouble.
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Ezekiel 20:45-21:32 - God's Sword
by Katrina
LINK: Ezekiel 20:45 - 21:32
BACKGROUND
This is another section of judgment, but that's not a surprise. God demonstrates that He is the one judging, and is using a human army to do so.
First, God identifies the target (20:45-49) and told Ezekiel to "set his face against" the Negev to the south. Judah and Jerusalem were to the south of where Ezekiel was (Babylon). So God was about to unleash His judgment on Judah and Jerusalem.
Then, in chapter 21, God drew His sword and sharpened it to use it against them. He directed Ezekiel to cry out, wail, and moan because of the death and destruction. Ezekiel's cries would melt the hearts of those who heard them.
Beginning in verse 18, the sword is revealed as Babylon. God will use the king and army of Babylon to accomplish His purpose in Jerusalem and Judah. The army will come to a point where they have to decide whether to march toward Ammon or Judah, and they will decide to attack Judah and will destroy it.
God will not forget the Ammonites, however. Their turn for judgment will come as well (vs 28). Ammon had joined the alliance (along with Judah and other nations) against Babylon, so Babylon won't forget about them. God will pour out His wrath on them, and their destruction will be complete. Ammon will never be restored but will be forgotten.
REFLECTION
Ezekiel referred to King Zedekiah as "the prince of Israel" in verse 25 and said he will be brought down low. He was the last king of David's line, and there will be no other until "He comes whose right it is." Who has the right to be king? Jesus! There will be no king on David's throne until Jesus himself claims the throne. Even in this description of the coming horrible destruction, God slips in a reminder of the coming Messiah.
That's all for today. Keep reading!
LINK: Ezekiel 20:45 - 21:32
BACKGROUND
This is another section of judgment, but that's not a surprise. God demonstrates that He is the one judging, and is using a human army to do so.
First, God identifies the target (20:45-49) and told Ezekiel to "set his face against" the Negev to the south. Judah and Jerusalem were to the south of where Ezekiel was (Babylon). So God was about to unleash His judgment on Judah and Jerusalem.
Then, in chapter 21, God drew His sword and sharpened it to use it against them. He directed Ezekiel to cry out, wail, and moan because of the death and destruction. Ezekiel's cries would melt the hearts of those who heard them.
Beginning in verse 18, the sword is revealed as Babylon. God will use the king and army of Babylon to accomplish His purpose in Jerusalem and Judah. The army will come to a point where they have to decide whether to march toward Ammon or Judah, and they will decide to attack Judah and will destroy it.
God will not forget the Ammonites, however. Their turn for judgment will come as well (vs 28). Ammon had joined the alliance (along with Judah and other nations) against Babylon, so Babylon won't forget about them. God will pour out His wrath on them, and their destruction will be complete. Ammon will never be restored but will be forgotten.
REFLECTION
Ezekiel referred to King Zedekiah as "the prince of Israel" in verse 25 and said he will be brought down low. He was the last king of David's line, and there will be no other until "He comes whose right it is." Who has the right to be king? Jesus! There will be no king on David's throne until Jesus himself claims the throne. Even in this description of the coming horrible destruction, God slips in a reminder of the coming Messiah.
That's all for today. Keep reading!
Monday, November 2, 2009
Ezekiel 20:1-44 - A History Lesson for the Elders
by Katrina
LINK: Ezekiel 20:1-44
BACKGROUND
When some elders of Israel came to Ezekiel to inquire of the Lord, God refused to listen to them and told them they had no right to inquire of Him. God refused to listen to their request because they were refusing to listen to Him with their hearts. They had no intention of listening to God and submitting to His instruction. We are told that the date of this encounter was August 14, 591 B.C.
God does, however, have a message for these elders. He begins with a history lesson from His perspective.
The end of this chapter goes along with chapter 21, so we'll cover it tomorrow.
REFLECTION
God wants us to understand that He does what He does for the sake of His own name. Just like the Israelites, we often think God makes decisions and does what He does for our sakes. We humans have the tendency to think that the world revolves around us, don't we? But God is sovereign over all and is determined to show us that He is the LORD!
APPLICATION
As you go through your day today, talk to God about the decisions you make and the things you do. What are you doing that demonstrates your understanding that God is the Lord, and what are you doing that demonstrates your own self-centered view of life?
PRAYER
Lord God, you are truly Lord. You are the one true God and you really rule over all. Help me to shift the focus of my heart and mind away from myself and onto you. Your name will be exalted. May I be one who willingly exalts you with all my heart. Amen.
LINK: Ezekiel 20:1-44
BACKGROUND
When some elders of Israel came to Ezekiel to inquire of the Lord, God refused to listen to them and told them they had no right to inquire of Him. God refused to listen to their request because they were refusing to listen to Him with their hearts. They had no intention of listening to God and submitting to His instruction. We are told that the date of this encounter was August 14, 591 B.C.
God does, however, have a message for these elders. He begins with a history lesson from His perspective.
- I chose this people, the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (vs 5).
- I brought them up out of Egypt and told them to put away their idols, but they rebelled and would not listen to Me and so kept their idols. I resolved to destroy them, but I held back for the sake of My name (vs 5-9).
- I brought them to the wilderness and gave them My law to live by. But they rebelled against Me and rejected My laws and profaned My sabbaths. Once again I resolved to destroy them, but for the sake of My name, instead of destroying them, I kept them in the wilderness while the next generation rose up (vs 10-17).
- I instructed their children not to be like their fathers but to keep My law. But they rebelled against Me by ignoring My ordinances and profaning My sabbaths. So I resolved to pour out My wrath on them, but then I withdrew My hand and for the sake of My name did not wipe them out (vs 18-22).
- Just before I took them into the land, I gave them the law again and knew they wouldn't keep it (even though they said they would). I warned them that when they disobeyed I would eventually scatter them from the land. I would disown them and make them desolate to show them that I am the Lord (vs 23-26).
- Once they were in the land, your fathers blasphemed Me by worshiping all kinds of idols and even sacrificing their sons to these pagan gods (vs 27-29).
- And now, you, you who are in exile because of idolatry, continue to worship idols. You live as the Babylonians rather than as I have commanded. You are just like your fathers, and I will not listen to you (vs 30-32).
The end of this chapter goes along with chapter 21, so we'll cover it tomorrow.
REFLECTION
God wants us to understand that He does what He does for the sake of His own name. Just like the Israelites, we often think God makes decisions and does what He does for our sakes. We humans have the tendency to think that the world revolves around us, don't we? But God is sovereign over all and is determined to show us that He is the LORD!
APPLICATION
As you go through your day today, talk to God about the decisions you make and the things you do. What are you doing that demonstrates your understanding that God is the Lord, and what are you doing that demonstrates your own self-centered view of life?
PRAYER
Lord God, you are truly Lord. You are the one true God and you really rule over all. Help me to shift the focus of my heart and mind away from myself and onto you. Your name will be exalted. May I be one who willingly exalts you with all my heart. Amen.
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Psalms 136 & 137 - Praise and Lament
by Becky
We have extremes in the two psalms for today. We go from a worship song of exultation and thanksgiving to a lament, a song of mourning.
And God is there in both extremes. That is one reason I love the Psalms. We see those who love God responding TO the LORD they serve in the emotions that overwhelm them at the time.
LINK: Psalm 136
BACKGROUND
This psalm was probably used in worship and lends itself to being sung antiphonally. It’s pretty obvious what its theme is! One phrase is repeated over and over again, twenty-six times, to be exact:
That is the way the New American Standard Version words it.
Has it sunk in yet?
The psalm alternates that statement with specific examples of God’s goodness.
God’s mercy and love are revealed in His works of creation (vv 4-9).
God’s mercy and love are revealed in His rescue of His people from slavery in Egypt (vv 10-15).
God’s mercy and love are revealed in His care of His people in the wilderness and in conquering enemies and giving His people the land of Canaan (vv 16-22).
The psalm ends with a summary: God cares for His people when they’re hurting, He rescues them from enemies, He feeds all that lives (vv 23-25).
The psalm ends with thanks:
Has someone wronged you? Are you far from God and living in a “foreign land”?
Cry to Him. Sing a sad song to Him. Cry for justice. Return to worshipping Him.
Remember what He has done for you in your rebellion against Him. He satisfied justice and extended grace. Can you not respond to His love, reflect Him, and forgive someone else?
PRAYER
Father, we praise you for your steadfast love revealed over and over again to us. Help us to remember that when we are in a barren place or when we are wronged. Help us to turn to you when we are filled with joy and help us to turn to you when we are hurting. Give us honest hearts before you.
We have extremes in the two psalms for today. We go from a worship song of exultation and thanksgiving to a lament, a song of mourning.
And God is there in both extremes. That is one reason I love the Psalms. We see those who love God responding TO the LORD they serve in the emotions that overwhelm them at the time.
LINK: Psalm 136
BACKGROUND
This psalm was probably used in worship and lends itself to being sung antiphonally. It’s pretty obvious what its theme is! One phrase is repeated over and over again, twenty-six times, to be exact:
For His mercy endures forever
That is how the English Standard Version puts it. And yet another translation:That’s how it’s translated in some versions (New King James for one) . Here’s another way it’s been translated:
For His steadfast love endures forever
For His lovingkindess is everlasting
That is the way the New American Standard Version words it.
Has it sunk in yet?
The psalm alternates that statement with specific examples of God’s goodness.
God’s mercy and love are revealed in His works of creation (vv 4-9).
God’s mercy and love are revealed in His rescue of His people from slavery in Egypt (vv 10-15).
God’s mercy and love are revealed in His care of His people in the wilderness and in conquering enemies and giving His people the land of Canaan (vv 16-22).
The psalm ends with a summary: God cares for His people when they’re hurting, He rescues them from enemies, He feeds all that lives (vv 23-25).
The psalm ends with thanks:
Give thanks to the God of heaven.
And indeed, recounting all that God has done that reveal His mercy, does cause us to pause and give thanks to Him.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
As I pondered this psalm I couldn’t help but think about how the Lord has cared for me. He created an orderly and beautiful world for us to live in. He rescued me from the control of sin, through His death. He defeated those “enemies” of mine that war against me: fear and bitterness and envy (and more). He has given me a place of plenty to dwell in, a land full of His fruit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, gentleness, goodness, faithfulness, self-control.
I am going to write my own “psalm” today in the style of Psalm 135. I am going to be specific in it. I will name ways I have seen God’s steadfast love revealed in my own “history.”
Won’t you do the same thing?
LINK: Psalm 137
BACKGROUND
This psalm is a lament, a song of sorrow.
The Jews sang this psalm in captivity. Defeated and taken into captivity by the Babylonians, they were humiliated further by taunts. Jerusalem had been given to them by the LORD. It was where He wanted them to worship Him. But they no longer lived there. In exile, far from home, the Babylonians made fun of them and their faith and asked them to sing their songs of joy and rejoicing about Jerusalem, their home. The implication is clear: the Babylonians were asking, “So where is your great God now?”
But the Jews do sing! They sing a sad song to God. And as they sing they remember that God is still God. They remember what God did to His enemies in the past. Babylon will be destroyed in the same way it destroyed Jerusalem.
In a sense, this is a psalm of prophecy, for that is what happened to Babylon. It was ransacked and destroyed.
REFLECTION
Two main thoughts swirl around in my mind as I write this.
The first is that even in times of great trouble and anguish of heart we can sing to God. We are to sing what is in our hearts, though, not fake platitudes. God doesn’t want us to pretend. That is something that hit me many years ago when I was in college. I knew I should be a certain way and so I’d pretend to God that I was that way. One day, I realized how very foolish that was. God, after all, knows my heart. He knows me better than I know myself. So I began to pour out all the yucky stuff to Him. I began to be honest with God. And you know what? He began to work in me, to bring me back to Him, to give me understanding. He restored joy and peace to me.
The second has to do with that last verse, that curse. I don’t have any kind of definitive answer about it or special knowledge of why curses are included in the psalms. It is hard to read that verse. Here are my thoughts, about the violence of that curse (and by extension, others):
The Jews are crying for justice. They are asking God to punish the Babylonians in the same way the Babylonians hurt them. It’s easy for us, living in this age when we have seen little physical violence done against us and those we love, to deplore the violence of those curses. But we haven’t lived there.
We all want justice.
When someone wrongs me, my first reaction is to want them to pay for it, to be held responsible for their wrong. I have to go through a process to move from justice to mercy. I have to remember how I have so often put myself before the LORD, how I have sinned. He died to forgive that sin. Justice was satisfied. That is something that we often forget. We don’t get to mercy unless we go through justice first. When I remember that God gave Himself to die for me, that He loves me and forgives me, then for His sake I am able to forgive others. It’s not often for their sake that I forgive them! But if God can forgive me, then surely I can forgive others. I cheapen His gift to me if I don’t reflect what He has done to others. But justice is not an evil desire; it is a truth, and one that God recognizes. That is why He died. We cheapen grace when we forget what sin deserves.
APPLICATION
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
As I pondered this psalm I couldn’t help but think about how the Lord has cared for me. He created an orderly and beautiful world for us to live in. He rescued me from the control of sin, through His death. He defeated those “enemies” of mine that war against me: fear and bitterness and envy (and more). He has given me a place of plenty to dwell in, a land full of His fruit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, gentleness, goodness, faithfulness, self-control.
I am going to write my own “psalm” today in the style of Psalm 135. I am going to be specific in it. I will name ways I have seen God’s steadfast love revealed in my own “history.”
Won’t you do the same thing?
LINK: Psalm 137
BACKGROUND
This psalm is a lament, a song of sorrow.
The Jews sang this psalm in captivity. Defeated and taken into captivity by the Babylonians, they were humiliated further by taunts. Jerusalem had been given to them by the LORD. It was where He wanted them to worship Him. But they no longer lived there. In exile, far from home, the Babylonians made fun of them and their faith and asked them to sing their songs of joy and rejoicing about Jerusalem, their home. The implication is clear: the Babylonians were asking, “So where is your great God now?”
But the Jews do sing! They sing a sad song to God. And as they sing they remember that God is still God. They remember what God did to His enemies in the past. Babylon will be destroyed in the same way it destroyed Jerusalem.
In a sense, this is a psalm of prophecy, for that is what happened to Babylon. It was ransacked and destroyed.
REFLECTION
Two main thoughts swirl around in my mind as I write this.
The first is that even in times of great trouble and anguish of heart we can sing to God. We are to sing what is in our hearts, though, not fake platitudes. God doesn’t want us to pretend. That is something that hit me many years ago when I was in college. I knew I should be a certain way and so I’d pretend to God that I was that way. One day, I realized how very foolish that was. God, after all, knows my heart. He knows me better than I know myself. So I began to pour out all the yucky stuff to Him. I began to be honest with God. And you know what? He began to work in me, to bring me back to Him, to give me understanding. He restored joy and peace to me.
The second has to do with that last verse, that curse. I don’t have any kind of definitive answer about it or special knowledge of why curses are included in the psalms. It is hard to read that verse. Here are my thoughts, about the violence of that curse (and by extension, others):
The Jews are crying for justice. They are asking God to punish the Babylonians in the same way the Babylonians hurt them. It’s easy for us, living in this age when we have seen little physical violence done against us and those we love, to deplore the violence of those curses. But we haven’t lived there.
We all want justice.
When someone wrongs me, my first reaction is to want them to pay for it, to be held responsible for their wrong. I have to go through a process to move from justice to mercy. I have to remember how I have so often put myself before the LORD, how I have sinned. He died to forgive that sin. Justice was satisfied. That is something that we often forget. We don’t get to mercy unless we go through justice first. When I remember that God gave Himself to die for me, that He loves me and forgives me, then for His sake I am able to forgive others. It’s not often for their sake that I forgive them! But if God can forgive me, then surely I can forgive others. I cheapen His gift to me if I don’t reflect what He has done to others. But justice is not an evil desire; it is a truth, and one that God recognizes. That is why He died. We cheapen grace when we forget what sin deserves.
APPLICATION
Has someone wronged you? Are you far from God and living in a “foreign land”?
Cry to Him. Sing a sad song to Him. Cry for justice. Return to worshipping Him.
Remember what He has done for you in your rebellion against Him. He satisfied justice and extended grace. Can you not respond to His love, reflect Him, and forgive someone else?
PRAYER
Father, we praise you for your steadfast love revealed over and over again to us. Help us to remember that when we are in a barren place or when we are wronged. Help us to turn to you when we are filled with joy and help us to turn to you when we are hurting. Give us honest hearts before you.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Ezekiel 14 & 15 - Idolatry and Vines
by Katrina
LINK: Ezekiel 14 and Ezekiel 15
BACKGROUND
CHAPTER 14
Some men who were supposed to be the leaders of Israel came to Ezekiel to see what he had to say. Clearly, these were not godly men who were true spiritual leaders for Israel. God revealed the idolatry that filled their hearts. He also made it clear that each one would be held responsible for his own personal sin of idolatry. But at the same time, God was giving them the opportunity to repent. If they didn't repent, then they would bear the punishment (their removal) so the house of Israel would no longer be led astray by them.
God went on to describe the four judgments that He would send on Jerusalem: famine, wild beasts in the land, war, and pestilence. And even if Noah, Daniel, and Job were in their midst, these righteous men would not be able to prevail upon God to relent.
People might wonder if the people of Jerusalem really deserved such punishment from God. But God said that there would be survivors in the city. They would live through the siege, survive the famine, not be killed by wild beasts, and not die from the diseases that will be rampant in the city. They will see it all first hand then be carried off by the Babylonian army. Yet, they will not repent. They will continue in their sinful ways, and everyone will know that God had good reason to judge them.
CHAPTER 15
Israel was a vine that God had planted and tended. But the vine was not producing fruit and so was worthless. And what good is a vine that doesn't produce any fruit? If it had been a tree, it could be cut down and the wood made into something useful. But a vine can't be made into anything at all. Its only usefulness is to be fuel for a fire. God sent fire (judgment) that charred the vine, making it even less useful (if that were possible). And He will soon send further fire that will consume the vine. "Then you will know that I am the Lord."
REFLECTION
Anything that ranks higher than God in my heart is an idol, and I must guard my heart against this form of idolatry. One way to do this is to consciously abide in the true vine - Jesus. (John 15:1-9). If I remember that He is my source of life and ministry, and I draw my strength from Him, then I will bear fruit. If I try to draw my life and strength from any other source, I will dry up and be fruitless, good for nothing except to be thrown in the fire.
APPLICATION
Let's examine our hearts today for any hint of idolatry. Do I love anything more than I love God? Money? Career? Clothes? Jewelry? Entertainment? Praise from others? Anything else? Confess it to God and abide in Jesus.
PRAYER
Lord, you know my heart better than I do. I want to abide in you and keep you first in my heart. Show me any areas where I do not have you in first place. Lead me, Lord, that I may draw ever closer to you and be filled with the sap of your true vine. May it ooze out through me, producing fruit for you, in the name of Jesus, amen.
LINK: Ezekiel 14 and Ezekiel 15
BACKGROUND
CHAPTER 14
Some men who were supposed to be the leaders of Israel came to Ezekiel to see what he had to say. Clearly, these were not godly men who were true spiritual leaders for Israel. God revealed the idolatry that filled their hearts. He also made it clear that each one would be held responsible for his own personal sin of idolatry. But at the same time, God was giving them the opportunity to repent. If they didn't repent, then they would bear the punishment (their removal) so the house of Israel would no longer be led astray by them.
God went on to describe the four judgments that He would send on Jerusalem: famine, wild beasts in the land, war, and pestilence. And even if Noah, Daniel, and Job were in their midst, these righteous men would not be able to prevail upon God to relent.
People might wonder if the people of Jerusalem really deserved such punishment from God. But God said that there would be survivors in the city. They would live through the siege, survive the famine, not be killed by wild beasts, and not die from the diseases that will be rampant in the city. They will see it all first hand then be carried off by the Babylonian army. Yet, they will not repent. They will continue in their sinful ways, and everyone will know that God had good reason to judge them.
CHAPTER 15
Israel was a vine that God had planted and tended. But the vine was not producing fruit and so was worthless. And what good is a vine that doesn't produce any fruit? If it had been a tree, it could be cut down and the wood made into something useful. But a vine can't be made into anything at all. Its only usefulness is to be fuel for a fire. God sent fire (judgment) that charred the vine, making it even less useful (if that were possible). And He will soon send further fire that will consume the vine. "Then you will know that I am the Lord."
REFLECTION
Anything that ranks higher than God in my heart is an idol, and I must guard my heart against this form of idolatry. One way to do this is to consciously abide in the true vine - Jesus. (John 15:1-9). If I remember that He is my source of life and ministry, and I draw my strength from Him, then I will bear fruit. If I try to draw my life and strength from any other source, I will dry up and be fruitless, good for nothing except to be thrown in the fire.
APPLICATION
Let's examine our hearts today for any hint of idolatry. Do I love anything more than I love God? Money? Career? Clothes? Jewelry? Entertainment? Praise from others? Anything else? Confess it to God and abide in Jesus.
PRAYER
Lord, you know my heart better than I do. I want to abide in you and keep you first in my heart. Show me any areas where I do not have you in first place. Lead me, Lord, that I may draw ever closer to you and be filled with the sap of your true vine. May it ooze out through me, producing fruit for you, in the name of Jesus, amen.
Monday, October 26, 2009
Ezekiel 13 - Prophecy against False Prophets
by Katrina
LINK: Ezekiel 13
BACKGROUND
Verses 1-16
One of the reasons the people didn't believe the prophesies of Ezekiel and Jeremiah was that there were so many other prophets telling a different message. These false prophets spoke of visions and inspirations from God, but God never gave them messages or visions. They made it all up and lied.
True prophecy was a spiritual protection for the people, like a strong wall surrounding a city. True prophecy always came from God and called His people to repentance and a deeper relationship with Him. But these false prophets were building a weak wall that would fall down. Its foundation wasn't sturdy because it was based on lies. They were giving the people false hope based on these lies.
The false prophets covered their weak walls with whitewash to make them appear to be sturdy. They covered up the fact that their words were lies by candy-coating them. They told the people what they wanted to hear -- that there would be peace and that Jerusalem would be protected from harm.
God laid out His judgment for these counterfeit prophets in verse nine. They would be removed from their prominent offices, removed from citizenship, removed from the land (either by death or exile), and not be permitted to return to the land.
Verses 17-23
Not only were their false prophets among the people, but there were also lying sorceresses. They claimed to be prophetesses, but practiced magical arts which were forbidden to the Jews (Deuteronomy 18:9-14). They made "magic charms" for people to purchase and wear on various parts of the body. These would supposedly protect them from evil.
Ezekiel compared them to birds of prey, hunting and killing the weak. These women preyed on the fears of the people and gave them false hope. They encouraged those who were wicked to continue in their wickedness and disheartened the righteous.
Their end would be similar to that of the false prophets. God would strip them of their charms and would not let them return to the land.
REFLECTION/APPLICATION
This chapter made me think how we need to be careful who we listen to. Sometimes it's just easier to listen to what we want to hear and think everything's okay. It's nice to hear reassuring words. We like to be told that we're doing alright. But sometimes what we need to hear isn't so comfortable. We may need to hear that we're doing something wrong or have a bad attitude about something. And whatever we hear, we need to search the scripture and test the message against it, rather than to jump on a bandwagon because it feels good. We need to make sure that the people we listen to are well-grounded in scripture and not getting carried away with their own ideas.
PRAYER
Thank you, Lord, for giving us your word and your Holy Spirit. Help us to discern which messages we hear are really from the world and which are your word to us. Amen.
LINK: Ezekiel 13
BACKGROUND
Verses 1-16
One of the reasons the people didn't believe the prophesies of Ezekiel and Jeremiah was that there were so many other prophets telling a different message. These false prophets spoke of visions and inspirations from God, but God never gave them messages or visions. They made it all up and lied.
True prophecy was a spiritual protection for the people, like a strong wall surrounding a city. True prophecy always came from God and called His people to repentance and a deeper relationship with Him. But these false prophets were building a weak wall that would fall down. Its foundation wasn't sturdy because it was based on lies. They were giving the people false hope based on these lies.
The false prophets covered their weak walls with whitewash to make them appear to be sturdy. They covered up the fact that their words were lies by candy-coating them. They told the people what they wanted to hear -- that there would be peace and that Jerusalem would be protected from harm.
God laid out His judgment for these counterfeit prophets in verse nine. They would be removed from their prominent offices, removed from citizenship, removed from the land (either by death or exile), and not be permitted to return to the land.
Verses 17-23
Not only were their false prophets among the people, but there were also lying sorceresses. They claimed to be prophetesses, but practiced magical arts which were forbidden to the Jews (Deuteronomy 18:9-14). They made "magic charms" for people to purchase and wear on various parts of the body. These would supposedly protect them from evil.
Ezekiel compared them to birds of prey, hunting and killing the weak. These women preyed on the fears of the people and gave them false hope. They encouraged those who were wicked to continue in their wickedness and disheartened the righteous.
Their end would be similar to that of the false prophets. God would strip them of their charms and would not let them return to the land.
REFLECTION/APPLICATION
This chapter made me think how we need to be careful who we listen to. Sometimes it's just easier to listen to what we want to hear and think everything's okay. It's nice to hear reassuring words. We like to be told that we're doing alright. But sometimes what we need to hear isn't so comfortable. We may need to hear that we're doing something wrong or have a bad attitude about something. And whatever we hear, we need to search the scripture and test the message against it, rather than to jump on a bandwagon because it feels good. We need to make sure that the people we listen to are well-grounded in scripture and not getting carried away with their own ideas.
PRAYER
Thank you, Lord, for giving us your word and your Holy Spirit. Help us to discern which messages we hear are really from the world and which are your word to us. Amen.
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Psalms 134 & 135 - Blessings and Hallelu-jahs!
LINK: Psalm 134
BACKGROUND
LINK: Psalm 135
BACKGROUND
BACKGROUND
This psalm is the last in the “Songs of Ascent” and seems to have been part of the worship service at the temple. The theme of the psalm certainly makes it a fitting close to worship. The psalm centers on those who remained in the temple to care for it (the Levites), bidding them to do it in worship of God. Then the psalm turns and invokes the Creator God’s blessing on those who worship. Perhaps it was spoken from the people to the Levites, a continuation of their previous words or perhaps it was a response from the priests to the people.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
My service to God is a form of worship to Him. Am I serving Him – doing those tasks He has given me, some perhaps mundane and boring – with reverence and joy? Do I desire to bless the Lord through them?
How do I do those tasks? What is the quality of my work? Does my work reflect my LORD's work?
Those are the questions I’m asking myself this morning as a result of thinking about this psalm. I hope you’ll ask them yourself, as well.
I love the last verse! No matter how much we want to bless the LORD, He is the one who gives more. He, the Creator of heaven and earth, has infinite resources with which to bless us.
BACKGROUND
Does this psalm remind you of any other scripture passages? It should! It pieces together verses from other places into a patchwork quilt of thoughts that form a cohesive whole. You will find parts of Psalms 134, 116, 95, 115, and 136 in it; as well as verses reminiscent of Deuteronomy 7:6 and 32: 36, Jeremiah 10:13, and Exodus 3:15 . Check it out!
The psalm also begins and ends with Hallelu-jah – praise to Jehovah God!
REFLECTION
So let’s look at what’s between the Hallelu-jahs!
There is a list of reasons for praising the LORD:
Praise Him for His goodness in choosing us. We as believers are grafted into the vine of Israel
Praise Him for His power revealed in nature. He is in charge of every bit of this world, from the depths of the seas to the atmosphere that surrounds the earth. “Whatever the LORD pleases He does.”
Praise Him for His power revealed in history. He worked miracles to get His people out of Egypt
Praise Him for His unchanging character. He is the same forever. That is something to hang onto in this changing world!
Praise Him for His compassion for His people. He judges us with compassion!
Praise Him for His trustworthiness. He, unlike idols, sees and hears. He isn’t made by man. (Whenever I run across something in God’s word that is impossible to understand, I am comforted, because it is a sign to me that God, who is greater than man, authored it. What man would write something impossible to understand?)
The psalm closes with a repeated invocation for all His people to bless the LORD.
If you fear Him, bless Him!
APPLICATION
So do it!
Then make a list of ways you have seen God’s goodness, power, faithfulness, compassion, and trustworthiness exhibited to you in your own life.
PRAYER
Hallelu-jah! We praise you, LORD, for your power and love. Either of those without the other would diminish you. Thank you for giving us hearts to love you and hands to serve you. Help us to reflect your faithfulness and constancy – both to you and to those around us.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Ezekiel 6-7 - Destruction of the Land
by Katrina
LINK: Ezekiel 6-7
BACKGROUND
Yesterday's two chapters focused on the destruction of Jerusalem, and today's two chapters describe the destruction of all the land. God had commanded Ezekiel not to speak unless He gave him something to say, and this is one of those times God gave him a message for the people.
The people had defiled the land with idols and high places. God would send an army (Babylonians) to destroy the high places, altars, and idols. The cities and people would be destroyed as well (chap 6). God will pour out His wrath on the land. The land and the people will be devastated by sword and famine. Their arrogance, violence, and wickedness will result in disaster upon disaster until complete destruction is accomplished. God will deal with them as they deserve (chap 7).
REFLECTION
The final verse of chapter seven reveals God's larger purpose in this judgment. "And they will know that I am the LORD." Although the people would seek help from their priests, their king, and other nations, nothing would thwart God's plan. God would prove Himself to be sovereign.
APPLICATION
Let's meditate on the sovereignty of God today. He is totally in control. We can't always understand what He's doing or why He does something, but He is truly the sovereign Lord over all.
PRAYER
Lord, you have a plan for all of history, and no power on earth or in hell can thwart it. You have control over all of my life, and no one can change that either. Your ways are beyond our comprehension, but you will accomplish them. We worship You, the Most High God!
LINK: Ezekiel 6-7
BACKGROUND
Yesterday's two chapters focused on the destruction of Jerusalem, and today's two chapters describe the destruction of all the land. God had commanded Ezekiel not to speak unless He gave him something to say, and this is one of those times God gave him a message for the people.
The people had defiled the land with idols and high places. God would send an army (Babylonians) to destroy the high places, altars, and idols. The cities and people would be destroyed as well (chap 6). God will pour out His wrath on the land. The land and the people will be devastated by sword and famine. Their arrogance, violence, and wickedness will result in disaster upon disaster until complete destruction is accomplished. God will deal with them as they deserve (chap 7).
REFLECTION
The final verse of chapter seven reveals God's larger purpose in this judgment. "And they will know that I am the LORD." Although the people would seek help from their priests, their king, and other nations, nothing would thwart God's plan. God would prove Himself to be sovereign.
The LORD nullifies the counsel of the nations; He frustrates the plans of the peoples. The counsel of the LORD stands forever; The plans of His heart from generation to generation. (Psalm 33:10-11)
APPLICATION
Let's meditate on the sovereignty of God today. He is totally in control. We can't always understand what He's doing or why He does something, but He is truly the sovereign Lord over all.
PRAYER
Lord, you have a plan for all of history, and no power on earth or in hell can thwart it. You have control over all of my life, and no one can change that either. Your ways are beyond our comprehension, but you will accomplish them. We worship You, the Most High God!
Monday, October 19, 2009
Ezekiel 4-5 - Siege of Jerusalem
by Katrina
LINK: Ezekiel 4-5
SUMMARY
God told Ezekiel to act instead of preach and gave him some specific object lessons to use. Ezekiel was not to speak at all. Maybe this was because nobody was listening to God's prophets, so God used a different method to communicate. Ezekiel was to stay in his house most of the time as well. His odd behavior drew people to his house to see what he was up to.
First, Ezekiel was to "act out" the coming siege of Jerusalem using a brick to represent the city and then "playing soldier" against the city. After scaling the wall and attacking it with battering rams, he held up an iron plate between his face and the city to represent how God could not look on His people anymore because of their sin. How heartbreaking this must have been to Ezekiel as well as to any other exiles who "got" the message. There was no doubt that God was communicating to them that Jerusalem would be destroyed.
Ezekiel's second "act" was to lie on his left side bearing the iniquity of the past sins of Israel. He had to do this at some point every day for 390 days. This might represent the approximately 390 years from the beginning of Rehoboam's reign through Zedekiah's reign, because during these years the temple was desecrated by idolatry. Ezekiel also had to lie down on his right side for 40 days. This might represent the 40 years in the wilderness. After lying on both sides, representing the iniquity of the people, Ezekiel "set his face" toward the brick Jerusalem with his arm bared and demonstrated the prophecy against it. His arm would represent the strong arm of God bringing His wrath on the city, and by extension, on the people of Israel. The clear message here was that God had waited very patiently for many years, but He would not hold back His judgment any longer.
The third demonstration took place during the second one. Ezekiel was to have very meager portions of bread and water to eat while he was lying on his side. His daily portion of bread amounted to about eight ounces, and his daily water would be about 21 ounces. This demonstrated the severe famine in Jerusalem during the siege. How sad that this would be the condition in the once beautiful city and in the land "flowing with milk and honey."
In the fourth "act" Ezekiel shaved all the hair from his head and divided it into three equal portions. The first portion was burned on the brick Jerusalem, representing the people who would die in Jerusalem during the siege. The second portion, Ezekiel chopped up with the sword, representing those who would die by the swords of the Babylonian soldiers. And the third portion was scattered in the wind, representing the Jews scattered all over the world among the Gentiles. But before he destroyed all the hair, Ezekiel tucked a few hairs in his robe. These represent the remnant of faithful people whom God would preserve.
REFLECTION/APPLICATION
God gave the exiles a vivid picture of what was about to happen to Jerusalem. Although they had been hearing such messages for years through the prophets, it must have hit home to be shown a visual demonstration of the destruction and death that would come upon their beloved city and nation. God was longsuffering with His people, but His waiting had come to an end. God is also longsuffering with me. I pray I never push Him to the end of His patience! I have experienced His chastening, and would not like to experience His wrath!
PRAYER
Lord, you cared enough about your people Israel to always have your word speaking to them. And you have given us the Bible today, full of your message to us. Thank you for teaching and leading us through your word and through your Holy Spirit. May I always be attentive to you and learn to obey you and not take your patience for granted. In the name of Jesus, amen.
LINK: Ezekiel 4-5
SUMMARY
God told Ezekiel to act instead of preach and gave him some specific object lessons to use. Ezekiel was not to speak at all. Maybe this was because nobody was listening to God's prophets, so God used a different method to communicate. Ezekiel was to stay in his house most of the time as well. His odd behavior drew people to his house to see what he was up to.
First, Ezekiel was to "act out" the coming siege of Jerusalem using a brick to represent the city and then "playing soldier" against the city. After scaling the wall and attacking it with battering rams, he held up an iron plate between his face and the city to represent how God could not look on His people anymore because of their sin. How heartbreaking this must have been to Ezekiel as well as to any other exiles who "got" the message. There was no doubt that God was communicating to them that Jerusalem would be destroyed.
Ezekiel's second "act" was to lie on his left side bearing the iniquity of the past sins of Israel. He had to do this at some point every day for 390 days. This might represent the approximately 390 years from the beginning of Rehoboam's reign through Zedekiah's reign, because during these years the temple was desecrated by idolatry. Ezekiel also had to lie down on his right side for 40 days. This might represent the 40 years in the wilderness. After lying on both sides, representing the iniquity of the people, Ezekiel "set his face" toward the brick Jerusalem with his arm bared and demonstrated the prophecy against it. His arm would represent the strong arm of God bringing His wrath on the city, and by extension, on the people of Israel. The clear message here was that God had waited very patiently for many years, but He would not hold back His judgment any longer.
The third demonstration took place during the second one. Ezekiel was to have very meager portions of bread and water to eat while he was lying on his side. His daily portion of bread amounted to about eight ounces, and his daily water would be about 21 ounces. This demonstrated the severe famine in Jerusalem during the siege. How sad that this would be the condition in the once beautiful city and in the land "flowing with milk and honey."
In the fourth "act" Ezekiel shaved all the hair from his head and divided it into three equal portions. The first portion was burned on the brick Jerusalem, representing the people who would die in Jerusalem during the siege. The second portion, Ezekiel chopped up with the sword, representing those who would die by the swords of the Babylonian soldiers. And the third portion was scattered in the wind, representing the Jews scattered all over the world among the Gentiles. But before he destroyed all the hair, Ezekiel tucked a few hairs in his robe. These represent the remnant of faithful people whom God would preserve.
REFLECTION/APPLICATION
God gave the exiles a vivid picture of what was about to happen to Jerusalem. Although they had been hearing such messages for years through the prophets, it must have hit home to be shown a visual demonstration of the destruction and death that would come upon their beloved city and nation. God was longsuffering with His people, but His waiting had come to an end. God is also longsuffering with me. I pray I never push Him to the end of His patience! I have experienced His chastening, and would not like to experience His wrath!
PRAYER
Lord, you cared enough about your people Israel to always have your word speaking to them. And you have given us the Bible today, full of your message to us. Thank you for teaching and leading us through your word and through your Holy Spirit. May I always be attentive to you and learn to obey you and not take your patience for granted. In the name of Jesus, amen.
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Psalms 132 & 133 - Promise and Unity
by Becky
LINKS: Psalm 132, Psalm 133
AND APPLICATION
LINKS: Psalm 132, Psalm 133
These psalms are also part of “The Songs of Ascent,” sung by the Jewish pilgrims on their way up to Jerusalem
PSALM 132
BACKGROUND
This psalm deals with past, present, and future. The first six verses look backward to David’s hardships in becoming king and his desire and vow to build a temple for the LORD. Then, in verses 7 – 9, the psalmist joyfully speaks of going to that dwelling place to worship – showing us that David’s desire had become reality. Because the poet’s heart is turned to worship, perhaps, and therefore to the consuming passion of David for the temple, he reminds the LORD of his promise to David and asks Him not to forget it. God’s promise was two-fold. The first part was unconditional: one of David’s sons would sit on his throne (11). The second part was conditional. If David’s sons (his descendents) would keep God’s covenant, they would sit on his throne forever (12). Part of this psalm (vv. 8-10) is also stated in 2 Chronicles 6: 41-42 in Solomon’s prayer for Israel
REFLECTION
Think of all the times and circumstances in which this psalm was sung. What was going on in the lives of the various pilgrims who sang it from their hearts? Perhaps they lived during the reign of a king (like Ahab or Manasseh or the wicked queen mother Athaliah) who was not keeping covenant with the LORD and who persecuted God’s followers. Perhaps some sang this while in exile, far away from Jerusalem
It took faith to sing this from the heart. Look how it focuses on what God has promised! This psalmist knew his history – the story of God’s covenant with David. He knew His God, too. He might not know how or when, but he knew that God would keep His word and that gave him hope!
APPLICATION
How well do you know your history? One reason we’re reading through the Bible together is so that we will know it. We have a record in it of God’s promises and His working. We might not always understand the prophecies, especially as they relate to future events, but we do have evidence here of the God who made those prophecies. So that is the best reason to read the Bible. We get to know our God through it. We see over and over again that God keeps His promises. He will fulfill that which He has promised.
Perhaps you are feeling far away from the LORD right now. Perhaps you are doubting Him and feeling like He doesn’t care. Perhaps you are even suffering for Him.
This short psalm speaks of the pleasantness of brothers in Israel
The first simile is that of the sweet-smelling ordination oil that was poured on the head of the priest, Aaron, and all the priests that followed him. This oil consecrated them and set them apart to God. The image here is of an abundance of oil, so much that it flowed off of Aaron’s beard and ran from his hair down onto his collar.
The second simile compares the blessing of unity to the refreshing dew of Mount Hermon . That dew was crucial in the dry season. That dew nurtured life on the mountain.
So this psalm is a chance for us to evaluate ourselves. Who am I living for? Who is my focus? Is it me (my recognition, my fulfillment, my pleasure, my ______ )? Or am I yielded to the LORD, dedicated to Him and His purposes? Am I helping God’s people live in unity or am I causing friction by my focus on something other than my Lord? Am I loving God’s people because I love Him?
PRAYER
Dear LORD, Thank you that you kept covenant with David and that Jesus came as the Anointed One to rule over a kingdom that will never end. We love because you first loved us. Help me to live for you and so to live in love and unity.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Daniel 9 - Prophecy of 70 Sevens
by Katrina
LINK: Daniel 9
BACKGROUND
Daniel was reading Jeremiah and found it clearly stated by God that the captivity was to last 70 years (Jeremiah 25:11-12). Since this was the first year of Darius, it was 538 B.C., 67 years after Daniel had been taken captive in the first group of deportees from Palestine to Babylon. He knew the captivity would soon end. But at the same time, he knew from his vision in chapter 8 (13 years previously) that there would be many more years of chastening from God. Daniel couldn't understand how both prophecies could be true at the same time. They both came from God, yet they seemed to contradict each other. One said the captivity would last only 70 years, and the other said that there would be many more years of judgment to come.
So Daniel turned to God in prayer. He confessed the sins of Israel, not separating himself from those sins. He acknowledged that they deserved God's punishment and begged God to turn His wrath away and restore His people for His own sake. What a passionate prayer! Daniel wanted God to go with the 70 year chastisement and restore his people to their homeland.
God responded by sending Gabriel with another prophecy. This Gabriel is the same angel who interpreted the vision of the ram and the goat (chap 8) and who will one day tell Mary that she will conceive and bear the Son of the Most High (Luke 2:26-38).
The prophecy is found in verses 24-27. The term "week" refers to a period of seven years. God decreed 70 sevens, which would mean 490 years. At the end of this time, Israel will have completed its transgression, ended its sin, made atonement, and have everlasting righteousness. Then all the prophecy concerning Israel's chastisement will be completed and can be "sealed up," and the temple will be anointed for God's service.
But the time is broken down into two periods -- 7 and 62 weeks (69 weeks altogether), and the final (70th) week. During the first time period Jerusalem would be restored and the Messiah would be on the earth. The rebuilding of Jerusalem would occur in the first seven sevens (49 years), and the Messiah (scarlet thread of redemption!) would be on the earth before the end of the 62 sevens (so before the end of a total 483 years).
Artaxerxes' second decree sending Jews back to Israel, allowed them to build the city and walls under the direction of Nehemiah. This decree was issued in the spring of 445 B.C., and within 49 years the city was rebuilt.
Using the lunar calendar of the day, the 483 years (69 weeks) brings us to spring A.D. 32. The 69 weeks are concluded, probably with triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem.
Verse 26 has specific events that seem to occur between the 69th week and the 70th week. This is when the Messiah would be "cut off" and the people of the prince would destroy the city and temple again. (This news must have greatly disappointed Daniel!) Messiah being cut off would refer to His crucifixion, and we know from history that Jerusalem was destroyed by the Romans in A.D. 70.
The final (70th) week will commence with a treaty between this prince who is to come (we call him Antichrist) and the people of Israel. The treaty would be for seven years but would be broken by the prince halfway through. He will completely desecrate the temple. Many theologians call this seven-year period the "Great Tribulation" and believe it is synonymous with the time Jesus referred to in Matthew 24. By this view, Jesus will return to earth following the seven years of tribulation.
So, both prophecies were true at the same time. The Babylonian captivity would last 70 years and Jerusalem would be restored. But there would continue to be a cycle of destruction and rebuilding until the end when the final desolation would take place under Antichrist.
There is a clear, more detailed explanation in this book if you are interested in further reading. We will also discuss all these prophecies again when we get to Revelation.
I don't know about you, but all this thinking has made my brain tired! I can only imagine how much more distressed Daniel would have been, since he never had the hindsight of history to understand how the prophecies would be fulfilled!
PRAYER
Lord, once again you prove yourself to be the all-knowing God who controls all of history. Thank you for sending Messiah to make atonement for the sins of Israel. And thank you for extending that atonement to Gentiles as well. You are truly a loving God, desiring that all should be restored to you. And thank you for providing that salvation to me! Amen.
LINK: Daniel 9
BACKGROUND
Daniel was reading Jeremiah and found it clearly stated by God that the captivity was to last 70 years (Jeremiah 25:11-12). Since this was the first year of Darius, it was 538 B.C., 67 years after Daniel had been taken captive in the first group of deportees from Palestine to Babylon. He knew the captivity would soon end. But at the same time, he knew from his vision in chapter 8 (13 years previously) that there would be many more years of chastening from God. Daniel couldn't understand how both prophecies could be true at the same time. They both came from God, yet they seemed to contradict each other. One said the captivity would last only 70 years, and the other said that there would be many more years of judgment to come.
So Daniel turned to God in prayer. He confessed the sins of Israel, not separating himself from those sins. He acknowledged that they deserved God's punishment and begged God to turn His wrath away and restore His people for His own sake. What a passionate prayer! Daniel wanted God to go with the 70 year chastisement and restore his people to their homeland.
God responded by sending Gabriel with another prophecy. This Gabriel is the same angel who interpreted the vision of the ram and the goat (chap 8) and who will one day tell Mary that she will conceive and bear the Son of the Most High (Luke 2:26-38).
The prophecy is found in verses 24-27. The term "week" refers to a period of seven years. God decreed 70 sevens, which would mean 490 years. At the end of this time, Israel will have completed its transgression, ended its sin, made atonement, and have everlasting righteousness. Then all the prophecy concerning Israel's chastisement will be completed and can be "sealed up," and the temple will be anointed for God's service.
But the time is broken down into two periods -- 7 and 62 weeks (69 weeks altogether), and the final (70th) week. During the first time period Jerusalem would be restored and the Messiah would be on the earth. The rebuilding of Jerusalem would occur in the first seven sevens (49 years), and the Messiah (scarlet thread of redemption!) would be on the earth before the end of the 62 sevens (so before the end of a total 483 years).
Artaxerxes' second decree sending Jews back to Israel, allowed them to build the city and walls under the direction of Nehemiah. This decree was issued in the spring of 445 B.C., and within 49 years the city was rebuilt.
Using the lunar calendar of the day, the 483 years (69 weeks) brings us to spring A.D. 32. The 69 weeks are concluded, probably with triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem.
Verse 26 has specific events that seem to occur between the 69th week and the 70th week. This is when the Messiah would be "cut off" and the people of the prince would destroy the city and temple again. (This news must have greatly disappointed Daniel!) Messiah being cut off would refer to His crucifixion, and we know from history that Jerusalem was destroyed by the Romans in A.D. 70.
The final (70th) week will commence with a treaty between this prince who is to come (we call him Antichrist) and the people of Israel. The treaty would be for seven years but would be broken by the prince halfway through. He will completely desecrate the temple. Many theologians call this seven-year period the "Great Tribulation" and believe it is synonymous with the time Jesus referred to in Matthew 24. By this view, Jesus will return to earth following the seven years of tribulation.
So, both prophecies were true at the same time. The Babylonian captivity would last 70 years and Jerusalem would be restored. But there would continue to be a cycle of destruction and rebuilding until the end when the final desolation would take place under Antichrist.
There is a clear, more detailed explanation in this book if you are interested in further reading. We will also discuss all these prophecies again when we get to Revelation.
I don't know about you, but all this thinking has made my brain tired! I can only imagine how much more distressed Daniel would have been, since he never had the hindsight of history to understand how the prophecies would be fulfilled!
PRAYER
Lord, once again you prove yourself to be the all-knowing God who controls all of history. Thank you for sending Messiah to make atonement for the sins of Israel. And thank you for extending that atonement to Gentiles as well. You are truly a loving God, desiring that all should be restored to you. And thank you for providing that salvation to me! Amen.
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