by Katrina
LINK: Isaiah 34
BACKGROUND
Here God describes the coming judgment of the Gentile nations. God will fight against His enemies on earth, and they will be destroyed. This may be the same battle described in Revelation 19:11-21, commonly referred to as Armageddon. It will be a humiliating defeat of the armies of the world that attack the Son of God. There will also be a bloodbath in the temple. Rather than sheep, goats, bulls, etc., being offered as sacrifices to God, God will "sacrifice" the wicked. Verses 9-10 describe destruction similar to that of Sodom and Gomorrah. Jesus said that just before His return, society will be much like it was in the days of Lot (Luke 17:28-30).
When it's all over, the land will be a desolate wilderness with wild animals and birds, but no humans living in it.
Keep reading!
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Monday, June 29, 2009
Isaiah 33 - Destruction of the Destroyer
by Katrina
LINK: Isaiah 33
BACKGROUND
The historical context of Isaiah 33 is in 2 Kings 18:9-37. Sennacherib king of Assyria sent a message to Hezekiah king of Judah reminding him that the surrounding nations had not been rescued by their gods and Hezekiah should not expect his God to be powerful enough to rescue his country from Assyria. Sennacherib invaded Judah, and Hezekiah prayed to the Lord for deliverance. Then the angel of the Lord attacked the Assyrian camp and struck 185,000 dead. Sennacherib returned home where he was assassinated in a temple while worshiping an idol.
Isaiah 33:1-16 tell of God's victory over Assyria and Sennacherib in the time of Hezekiah's reign. The rest of the chapter shifts to God's universal dominion that will never end, with its center at Jerusalem.
REFLECTION/APPLICATION
Reflect on verses 5-6: "The Lord is exalted for He dwells on high; He has filled Zion with justice and righteousness. And He shall be the stability of your times, a wealth of salvation, wisdom, and knowledge. The fear of the Lord is his treasure."
No matter how tumultuous the times, the Lord is our stability. He is just and righteous. He is the source of salvation, wisdom, and knowledge. If we fear the Lord, we have a great treasure!
PRAYER
Lord, you are the only one who provides stability in our unpredictable lives, because you never change. You are righteous, yet you love us and have provided a way for our salvation. You are the source of wisdom and knowledge for us. Teach us to fear you and seek you as a treasure. In the name of Jesus, amen.
LINK: Isaiah 33
BACKGROUND
The historical context of Isaiah 33 is in 2 Kings 18:9-37. Sennacherib king of Assyria sent a message to Hezekiah king of Judah reminding him that the surrounding nations had not been rescued by their gods and Hezekiah should not expect his God to be powerful enough to rescue his country from Assyria. Sennacherib invaded Judah, and Hezekiah prayed to the Lord for deliverance. Then the angel of the Lord attacked the Assyrian camp and struck 185,000 dead. Sennacherib returned home where he was assassinated in a temple while worshiping an idol.
Isaiah 33:1-16 tell of God's victory over Assyria and Sennacherib in the time of Hezekiah's reign. The rest of the chapter shifts to God's universal dominion that will never end, with its center at Jerusalem.
REFLECTION/APPLICATION
Reflect on verses 5-6: "The Lord is exalted for He dwells on high; He has filled Zion with justice and righteousness. And He shall be the stability of your times, a wealth of salvation, wisdom, and knowledge. The fear of the Lord is his treasure."
No matter how tumultuous the times, the Lord is our stability. He is just and righteous. He is the source of salvation, wisdom, and knowledge. If we fear the Lord, we have a great treasure!
PRAYER
Lord, you are the only one who provides stability in our unpredictable lives, because you never change. You are righteous, yet you love us and have provided a way for our salvation. You are the source of wisdom and knowledge for us. Teach us to fear you and seek you as a treasure. In the name of Jesus, amen.
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Psalm 106 - History Lesson Continued
by Becky
LINK: Psalm 106
BACKGROUND
Last week our psalm (Psalm 105) centered on God’s faithfulness to His people from Abraham through the exodus from Egypt. This psalm’s history lesson begins after the exodus, with the parting of the Red Sea. Psalm 106 focuses on the cycle of the Israelites' stubbornness, self-centered lack of faith and consequent sin, and God’s continuing merciful and faithful response to them. The psalm is both a lesson and an encouragement to those who belong to God. It shows us how shortsighted we humans can be, how stubborn we are to have our own way, and how quickly we turn to complaining, grumbling, and even rebellion. It also makes clear that though sin must be punished, yet God remains faithful.
The psalm ends with a cry to God in verse 47, “Save us, O LORD our God, and gather us from among the Gentiles, to give thanks to Your holy name, to triumph in Your praise.” Apparently this psalm was composed during the captivity of the Israelites. It reminds God of His actions for His people in the past, of His redemption of them in the face of their sin. The psalmist confesses that his generation is just like their fathers’. Alhough an account of the people’s unfaithfulness to God, Psalm 106 would comfort those in despair by making clear God’s faithfulness and repeated deliverance even in the face of His children’s sin and rebellion. It is so fitting that the psalm begins and ends with praising God!
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
This psalm is long and I hope you’ll spend some time thinking about it, so I will try to keep this entry short.
Verse 8 says, “Nevertheless, He saved them for His name’s sake.” I find that reassuring. Unlike us, God never changes. He was faithful then; He is still faithful. He is always righteous. His salvation doesn’t come because we deserve it, because we have served Him, because we are needy. His salvation comes because of who He is – His own character – His name.
It really is all about God. We want to make it all about us. That’s the struggle.
Look at how the people sinned. List the sins. I’ll start us off:
lack of understanding
forgetfulness
rebellion
impatience
lust for what they didn’t have
testing God
envy
idolatry
And I’m only to verse 19! What else is there? Think about the Israelites’ attitudes and actions. Do you see yourself there? I sure do.
After you list the sins, go back and look at the words used to describe the LORD. How did He respond to the sins of His people? Here’s my start to list of words about God:
good
merciful
doer of mighty acts
just
righteous
guide
savior
redeemer
rescuer
counselor
I stopped at verse 12. How else is God described?
I can’t help but think how this psalm foreshadows Jesus, our Redeemer. Just as God rescued His people over and over again in spite of their sin, so Jesus came, not because of anything we did to deserve it, but because of who He is. Jesus shows us the full extent of God’s desire to extend mercy, forgive, and redeem. Praise Him!
Why do I keep wanting to make it all about me?
PRAYER
LORD, thank you for this psalm in which I see myself. I am no different from the Israelites. I forget what You have done for me; I grumble and complain; I am impatient and want things on my timetable; I worship stupidly inferior things; I use those around me as a guide for living rather than Your word… the list goes on and on. I thank You that You redeem me because of who You are, because of Your Name, not because I have done something to deserve it. It is so restful to realize that. Help me to respond to Your faithfulness with trust and obedience. Blessed be You, our LORD God, forever!
LINK: Psalm 106
BACKGROUND
Last week our psalm (Psalm 105) centered on God’s faithfulness to His people from Abraham through the exodus from Egypt. This psalm’s history lesson begins after the exodus, with the parting of the Red Sea. Psalm 106 focuses on the cycle of the Israelites' stubbornness, self-centered lack of faith and consequent sin, and God’s continuing merciful and faithful response to them. The psalm is both a lesson and an encouragement to those who belong to God. It shows us how shortsighted we humans can be, how stubborn we are to have our own way, and how quickly we turn to complaining, grumbling, and even rebellion. It also makes clear that though sin must be punished, yet God remains faithful.
The psalm ends with a cry to God in verse 47, “Save us, O LORD our God, and gather us from among the Gentiles, to give thanks to Your holy name, to triumph in Your praise.” Apparently this psalm was composed during the captivity of the Israelites. It reminds God of His actions for His people in the past, of His redemption of them in the face of their sin. The psalmist confesses that his generation is just like their fathers’. Alhough an account of the people’s unfaithfulness to God, Psalm 106 would comfort those in despair by making clear God’s faithfulness and repeated deliverance even in the face of His children’s sin and rebellion. It is so fitting that the psalm begins and ends with praising God!
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
This psalm is long and I hope you’ll spend some time thinking about it, so I will try to keep this entry short.
Verse 8 says, “Nevertheless, He saved them for His name’s sake.” I find that reassuring. Unlike us, God never changes. He was faithful then; He is still faithful. He is always righteous. His salvation doesn’t come because we deserve it, because we have served Him, because we are needy. His salvation comes because of who He is – His own character – His name.
It really is all about God. We want to make it all about us. That’s the struggle.
Look at how the people sinned. List the sins. I’ll start us off:
lack of understanding
forgetfulness
rebellion
impatience
lust for what they didn’t have
testing God
envy
idolatry
And I’m only to verse 19! What else is there? Think about the Israelites’ attitudes and actions. Do you see yourself there? I sure do.
After you list the sins, go back and look at the words used to describe the LORD. How did He respond to the sins of His people? Here’s my start to list of words about God:
good
merciful
doer of mighty acts
just
righteous
guide
savior
redeemer
rescuer
counselor
I stopped at verse 12. How else is God described?
I can’t help but think how this psalm foreshadows Jesus, our Redeemer. Just as God rescued His people over and over again in spite of their sin, so Jesus came, not because of anything we did to deserve it, but because of who He is. Jesus shows us the full extent of God’s desire to extend mercy, forgive, and redeem. Praise Him!
Why do I keep wanting to make it all about me?
PRAYER
LORD, thank you for this psalm in which I see myself. I am no different from the Israelites. I forget what You have done for me; I grumble and complain; I am impatient and want things on my timetable; I worship stupidly inferior things; I use those around me as a guide for living rather than Your word… the list goes on and on. I thank You that You redeem me because of who You are, because of Your Name, not because I have done something to deserve it. It is so restful to realize that. Help me to respond to Your faithfulness with trust and obedience. Blessed be You, our LORD God, forever!
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Isaiah 27 - Israel's Final End
by Katrina
LINK: Isaiah 27
BACKGROUND
"Is that your final answer?" Isaiah is telling the people of the impending destruction of the land and dispersing of the people. That judgment is only a few years away for the people hearing Isaiah speak. But that won't be the final end of God's people. Chapter 27 tells some things about the final end.
First of all, Leviathan will be destroyed (vs 1). There are different theories as to the exact identification of Leviathan, but they all refer to God's enemies. God will destroy His enemies.
Second, God's people will be at peace with God and will become like a fruitful vineyard. They will blossom and fill the whole world with fruit. All idols will be completely crushed (vs 2-9).
Verses 10-11 describe how God withdrew His compassion and allowed Babylon to siege the city of Jerusalem. God's purpose was to chastise His people so they would turn back to Him.
The chapter concludes (vs 12-13) with a description of God sweeping through the earth, gathering the sons of Israel to Jerusalem. A great trumpet will sound, and the scattered will return to Jerusalem where they will worship the Lord. This will be the final end for Israel.
REFLECTION
Jesus spoke of a day when a great trumpet would sound and God's elect from all over the world would be gathered together (Matthew 24:31). And Paul spoke of the trumpet calling all believers to meet Jesus in the air at the rapture and then be forever with the Lord (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18). When Paul spoke of the rapture of the Church in 1 Corinthians 15:51-58, he said that at the sound of the trumpet, the dead will rise first, and we all will be changed to immortal beings. Death itself will be completely conquered. And we will live forever with Jesus.
APPLICATION
In light of these truths, Paul says, "But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your toil is not in vain in the Lord" (1 Corinthians 15:57-58).
Let's praise and thank God for the victory over death and sin that He provided through Jesus. And let us be steadfast, immovable, always doing much work of the Lord. For this work will never be in vain!
PRAYER
We praise You, Lord, for conquering death and sin, and thereby providing a way for us to live victoriously in You. Strengthen us to stay "on mission" doing Your work until Jesus comes to take us home to be with Him forever. Amen.
LINK: Isaiah 27
BACKGROUND
"Is that your final answer?" Isaiah is telling the people of the impending destruction of the land and dispersing of the people. That judgment is only a few years away for the people hearing Isaiah speak. But that won't be the final end of God's people. Chapter 27 tells some things about the final end.
First of all, Leviathan will be destroyed (vs 1). There are different theories as to the exact identification of Leviathan, but they all refer to God's enemies. God will destroy His enemies.
Second, God's people will be at peace with God and will become like a fruitful vineyard. They will blossom and fill the whole world with fruit. All idols will be completely crushed (vs 2-9).
Verses 10-11 describe how God withdrew His compassion and allowed Babylon to siege the city of Jerusalem. God's purpose was to chastise His people so they would turn back to Him.
The chapter concludes (vs 12-13) with a description of God sweeping through the earth, gathering the sons of Israel to Jerusalem. A great trumpet will sound, and the scattered will return to Jerusalem where they will worship the Lord. This will be the final end for Israel.
REFLECTION
Jesus spoke of a day when a great trumpet would sound and God's elect from all over the world would be gathered together (Matthew 24:31). And Paul spoke of the trumpet calling all believers to meet Jesus in the air at the rapture and then be forever with the Lord (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18). When Paul spoke of the rapture of the Church in 1 Corinthians 15:51-58, he said that at the sound of the trumpet, the dead will rise first, and we all will be changed to immortal beings. Death itself will be completely conquered. And we will live forever with Jesus.
APPLICATION
In light of these truths, Paul says, "But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your toil is not in vain in the Lord" (1 Corinthians 15:57-58).
Let's praise and thank God for the victory over death and sin that He provided through Jesus. And let us be steadfast, immovable, always doing much work of the Lord. For this work will never be in vain!
PRAYER
We praise You, Lord, for conquering death and sin, and thereby providing a way for us to live victoriously in You. Strengthen us to stay "on mission" doing Your work until Jesus comes to take us home to be with Him forever. Amen.
Monday, June 22, 2009
Isaiah 25 & 26 - Songs of Praise
by Katrina
LINK: Isaiah 25-26
BACKGROUND
Chapter 25 is a song of praise to God for His salvation. It speaks of a time when all of God's enemies will be destroyed (vs 1-3). Yet God will provide refuge (vs 4-5), then a feast (vs 6-12), for His people.
Chapter 26 is another song of praise. This song emphasizes the righteousness and peace of the kingdom. Jerusalem will be an impregnable city built on the Rock of God, and only those who trust in the Lord will enter it (vs 1-6). Isaiah describes the longing that God's people have while waiting for Him (vs 7-9) as well as the lack of understanding in the rest of the world (vs 9-11).
The Lord will establish peace for Israel. All the tyrants who have ruled Israel throughout history will be dead, never to have power over them again. And the Lord will extend the land of Israel. Isaiah compares the chastening of the Lord to the travail of a woman in childbirth. However, Israel's labor produced nothing. They failed to give birth to the blessings God intended for them to give to the world. (vs 12-18)
Verse 19 tells of the resurrection of the dead. At the end time, all people will rise and be judged.
The chapter closes with God's promise to shelter His people and punish His enemies (vs 20-21).
REFLECTION/APPLICATION/PRAYER
Read reflectively through these two chapters, looking for the words of praise. Personalize these praises and sing your own song or pray your own prayer of praise to God.
LINK: Isaiah 25-26
BACKGROUND
Chapter 25 is a song of praise to God for His salvation. It speaks of a time when all of God's enemies will be destroyed (vs 1-3). Yet God will provide refuge (vs 4-5), then a feast (vs 6-12), for His people.
Chapter 26 is another song of praise. This song emphasizes the righteousness and peace of the kingdom. Jerusalem will be an impregnable city built on the Rock of God, and only those who trust in the Lord will enter it (vs 1-6). Isaiah describes the longing that God's people have while waiting for Him (vs 7-9) as well as the lack of understanding in the rest of the world (vs 9-11).
The Lord will establish peace for Israel. All the tyrants who have ruled Israel throughout history will be dead, never to have power over them again. And the Lord will extend the land of Israel. Isaiah compares the chastening of the Lord to the travail of a woman in childbirth. However, Israel's labor produced nothing. They failed to give birth to the blessings God intended for them to give to the world. (vs 12-18)
Verse 19 tells of the resurrection of the dead. At the end time, all people will rise and be judged.
The chapter closes with God's promise to shelter His people and punish His enemies (vs 20-21).
REFLECTION/APPLICATION/PRAYER
Read reflectively through these two chapters, looking for the words of praise. Personalize these praises and sing your own song or pray your own prayer of praise to God.
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Psalm 105 - History Lesson
HAPPY FATHER'S DAY to ALL YOU DADS OUT THERE!
Ladies, hug your fathers and husbands and let them know how much you appreciate them.
by Becky
LINK: Psalm 105
BACKGROUND
Psalm 105 recounts history. It tells of God’s work on behalf of His people and calls them to remember what He has done (v 5), to seek Him (v 4), to rejoice and praise Him for His care of them (v 2-3), to tell others of God’s faithfulness (v 1-2), to call on Him (v 1), and to obey the principles He’s given (v 45). That word “remember” in verse 5 means more than to simply recall what God has done; it means to respond to His marvelous and faithful works with trust and obedience. Right remembering leads to action.
The first fifteen verses of this psalm, along with Psalm 96 and part of Psalm 106, are quoted as being used in worship in 1 Chronicles 16. The medley of psalms was sung to celebrate David’s bringing the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem. I think it’s interesting that the Israelites mixed and matched different parts of the Psalms in worship!
REFLECTION
This psalm is jam-packed with specific accounts of God’s faithfulness to His people in their past . It is a call for His people (me!) to respond in trust and obedience, to be as faithful to Him as He is to them.
As I read the psalm I thought about how often I gloss over just what individuals must have thought and wondered as they struggled with life. For instance, Joseph is listed here; it says in v 16 – 17, “He (God) called for a famine on the land of Canaan, cutting off its food supply. Then he sent someone to Egypt ahead of them – Joseph, who was sold as a slave.” We know the story after the fact and so know the end. But imagine experiencing it! Jacob and his sons didn’t know what their futures held. Jacob knew there was a famine; he watched the grass wither and his animals grow lean. Joseph knew that he’d been betrayed by his brothers and sold as a slave in a foreign country. A slave! Did he even speak the language? Joseph suffered. That suffering tested and proved Joseph’s character.
This psalm takes us through the good times and the bad times in the beginning of the history of the people of God. It makes it clear that God has a plan and that through all the events He remained faithful to His word – to His promises. God miraculously worked so that the Israelites could leave Egypt. But it’s made clear, too, that His plan involves suffering.
As I’ve meditated on this psalm I’ve been led to reflect on my own history. As I’ve looked back, I can see how God has rescued me in times of trouble and trial. I’m not saying that He spared me from trouble and trial, but I am saying that He was with me during them and I can see now how He has used those times of suffering and directed my life through them.
APPLICATION
Look at the verbs in verses 1-5. When is a good time to obey them?
What reason is given for God’s actions on behalf of the children of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (vv. 7- 10, 42)? How can that reassure us? (See Hebrews 13: 5b, 6, 20-21.)
PRAYER
We praise You, LORD, that You are faithful, that You keep Your promises. We thank you that You have recorded in Your Word examples of Your faithfulness to Your people. I am redeemed by the blood of the Lord Jesus and I thank You for Your promises to me through Him. Help me to walk by faith and thank You and “search for You and Your strength” and exult in Your name, and obey Your principles.
Ladies, hug your fathers and husbands and let them know how much you appreciate them.
by Becky
LINK: Psalm 105
BACKGROUND
Psalm 105 recounts history. It tells of God’s work on behalf of His people and calls them to remember what He has done (v 5), to seek Him (v 4), to rejoice and praise Him for His care of them (v 2-3), to tell others of God’s faithfulness (v 1-2), to call on Him (v 1), and to obey the principles He’s given (v 45). That word “remember” in verse 5 means more than to simply recall what God has done; it means to respond to His marvelous and faithful works with trust and obedience. Right remembering leads to action.
The first fifteen verses of this psalm, along with Psalm 96 and part of Psalm 106, are quoted as being used in worship in 1 Chronicles 16. The medley of psalms was sung to celebrate David’s bringing the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem. I think it’s interesting that the Israelites mixed and matched different parts of the Psalms in worship!
REFLECTION
This psalm is jam-packed with specific accounts of God’s faithfulness to His people in their past . It is a call for His people (me!) to respond in trust and obedience, to be as faithful to Him as He is to them.
As I read the psalm I thought about how often I gloss over just what individuals must have thought and wondered as they struggled with life. For instance, Joseph is listed here; it says in v 16 – 17, “He (God) called for a famine on the land of Canaan, cutting off its food supply. Then he sent someone to Egypt ahead of them – Joseph, who was sold as a slave.” We know the story after the fact and so know the end. But imagine experiencing it! Jacob and his sons didn’t know what their futures held. Jacob knew there was a famine; he watched the grass wither and his animals grow lean. Joseph knew that he’d been betrayed by his brothers and sold as a slave in a foreign country. A slave! Did he even speak the language? Joseph suffered. That suffering tested and proved Joseph’s character.
This psalm takes us through the good times and the bad times in the beginning of the history of the people of God. It makes it clear that God has a plan and that through all the events He remained faithful to His word – to His promises. God miraculously worked so that the Israelites could leave Egypt. But it’s made clear, too, that His plan involves suffering.
As I’ve meditated on this psalm I’ve been led to reflect on my own history. As I’ve looked back, I can see how God has rescued me in times of trouble and trial. I’m not saying that He spared me from trouble and trial, but I am saying that He was with me during them and I can see now how He has used those times of suffering and directed my life through them.
APPLICATION
Look at the verbs in verses 1-5. When is a good time to obey them?
What reason is given for God’s actions on behalf of the children of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (vv. 7- 10, 42)? How can that reassure us? (See Hebrews 13: 5b, 6, 20-21.)
PRAYER
We praise You, LORD, that You are faithful, that You keep Your promises. We thank you that You have recorded in Your Word examples of Your faithfulness to Your people. I am redeemed by the blood of the Lord Jesus and I thank You for Your promises to me through Him. Help me to walk by faith and thank You and “search for You and Your strength” and exult in Your name, and obey Your principles.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Isaiah 19 - Prophecy about Egypt
by Katrina
LINK: Isaiah 19
BACKGROUND
This chapter has two sections: verses 1-15 tell of Egypt's near future, and verses 16-25 speak of Egypt in the millennial kingdom.
Isaiah warned Egypt that the Lord was about to come, resulting in great dread and fear. There would be a civil war followed by a cruel conqueror. Egypt would experience severe drought, which would destroy their economy. And the world famous wise men of Egypt will be confounded. The leading cities will fall, and Egypt will surely come to ruin. This prophecy came true in 671 B.C. when Esarhaddon, king of Assyria, conquered Egypt.
The second section uses the phrase "in that day" several times, indicating a more distant future time. It seems to refer to the millennial period. At that time, the three nations - Israel, Egypt, Assyria - will be at peace with one another. Egypt will fear Israel and worship the one true God. Assyria and Egypt will be allied together, and there will be a great highway between them.
Scarlet Thread - verse 20 says that Egypt will cry out to the Lord, and He will send them a Savior and a Champion, and He will deliver them.
REFLECTION
I love verse 22, "And the Lord will strike Egypt, striking but healing; so they will return to the Lord, and He will respond to them and will heal them." The land if Egypt is largely Muslim today, but this verse tells us that one day the people of Egypt will turn to the Lord and He will listen. Isn't that exciting!! But it gets even better. The land of Assyria in Isaiah's time, is today's Iraq. One day the Lord of hosts will bless all three of these nations, saying, "Blessed is Egypt My people, and Assyria the work of My hands, and Israel My inheritance" (verse 25). No longer will Iraq and Egypt be Muslim! They will be just as much God's people as Israel. I think that's very exciting!
PRAYER
Lord, what a wonderful day it will be when the nations of the Middle East all bow to You, the King of kings! Even so, come, Lord Jesus! Amen.
LINK: Isaiah 19
BACKGROUND
This chapter has two sections: verses 1-15 tell of Egypt's near future, and verses 16-25 speak of Egypt in the millennial kingdom.
Isaiah warned Egypt that the Lord was about to come, resulting in great dread and fear. There would be a civil war followed by a cruel conqueror. Egypt would experience severe drought, which would destroy their economy. And the world famous wise men of Egypt will be confounded. The leading cities will fall, and Egypt will surely come to ruin. This prophecy came true in 671 B.C. when Esarhaddon, king of Assyria, conquered Egypt.
The second section uses the phrase "in that day" several times, indicating a more distant future time. It seems to refer to the millennial period. At that time, the three nations - Israel, Egypt, Assyria - will be at peace with one another. Egypt will fear Israel and worship the one true God. Assyria and Egypt will be allied together, and there will be a great highway between them.
Scarlet Thread - verse 20 says that Egypt will cry out to the Lord, and He will send them a Savior and a Champion, and He will deliver them.
REFLECTION
I love verse 22, "And the Lord will strike Egypt, striking but healing; so they will return to the Lord, and He will respond to them and will heal them." The land if Egypt is largely Muslim today, but this verse tells us that one day the people of Egypt will turn to the Lord and He will listen. Isn't that exciting!! But it gets even better. The land of Assyria in Isaiah's time, is today's Iraq. One day the Lord of hosts will bless all three of these nations, saying, "Blessed is Egypt My people, and Assyria the work of My hands, and Israel My inheritance" (verse 25). No longer will Iraq and Egypt be Muslim! They will be just as much God's people as Israel. I think that's very exciting!
PRAYER
Lord, what a wonderful day it will be when the nations of the Middle East all bow to You, the King of kings! Even so, come, Lord Jesus! Amen.
Monday, June 15, 2009
Isaiah 17 & 18 - Prophecies about Syria & Cush
by Katrina
LINK: Isaiah 17-18
BACKGROUND
Damascus was the capital of Syria also known as Aram. Israel had allied herself with Syria, trusting in protection from Syria rather than trusting in God. In chapter 17, Isaiah tells of the destruction of Syria. This happened when Damascus was conquered in 732 B.C. The fall of Damascus was a warning to Israel of their pending destruction. In 722 B.C. Israel was conquered by Assyria and was a country no more.
What was called Cush in Isaiah's day is now the land of Ethiopia, the Sudan, and Somalia. This powerful nation, and ambassadors came from other nations to seek alliances that would protect them from Assyria. But the Lord quietly watched from heaven and allowed Assyria to ripen for His judgment when He will cut it down (v. 5) and leave it for the birds and beasts to eat. There are similar images of judgment in Revelation 14:14-20 and Revelation 19:17-21
Chapter 18 ends with a description of people from Cush traveling to Jerusalem to bring gifts to the Lord and to the king of Judah. This speaks of the millennial kingdom when Gentiles will come from all over the world to worship Jesus as Jerusalem.
REFLECTION
It's interesting that the nation of Israel has been ignoring God and His warnings all these years, yet when judgment actually comes and Assyria conquers and deports the nation, some people will turn to the Lord (Isaiah 18:7). Not only will they turn to God, but they will forsake their idols. But it will be too late, and the Lord will not listen. The destruction will still come to the nation.
APPLICATION
I often praise and thank the Lord for His longsuffering. He is very patient with me. I don't ever want to take advantage of His patience, though, and assume I can get away with sin. That's what the Israelites were doing. They had the attitude that they were "God's chosen people" and could therefore do whatever they wanted. Rather than that kind of attitude, I want to have an attitude of thankfulness that God has made me His child. Then I want to serve Him with my life and worship Him with my whole heart.
PRAYER
Lord, thank you for adopting me as your child. Thank you for your patience as I learn and grow in you. As David said, teach me your ways and show me your path. I want to wholeheartedly love and serve you. Because of Jesus, amen.
LINK: Isaiah 17-18
BACKGROUND
Damascus was the capital of Syria also known as Aram. Israel had allied herself with Syria, trusting in protection from Syria rather than trusting in God. In chapter 17, Isaiah tells of the destruction of Syria. This happened when Damascus was conquered in 732 B.C. The fall of Damascus was a warning to Israel of their pending destruction. In 722 B.C. Israel was conquered by Assyria and was a country no more.
What was called Cush in Isaiah's day is now the land of Ethiopia, the Sudan, and Somalia. This powerful nation, and ambassadors came from other nations to seek alliances that would protect them from Assyria. But the Lord quietly watched from heaven and allowed Assyria to ripen for His judgment when He will cut it down (v. 5) and leave it for the birds and beasts to eat. There are similar images of judgment in Revelation 14:14-20 and Revelation 19:17-21
Chapter 18 ends with a description of people from Cush traveling to Jerusalem to bring gifts to the Lord and to the king of Judah. This speaks of the millennial kingdom when Gentiles will come from all over the world to worship Jesus as Jerusalem.
REFLECTION
It's interesting that the nation of Israel has been ignoring God and His warnings all these years, yet when judgment actually comes and Assyria conquers and deports the nation, some people will turn to the Lord (Isaiah 18:7). Not only will they turn to God, but they will forsake their idols. But it will be too late, and the Lord will not listen. The destruction will still come to the nation.
APPLICATION
I often praise and thank the Lord for His longsuffering. He is very patient with me. I don't ever want to take advantage of His patience, though, and assume I can get away with sin. That's what the Israelites were doing. They had the attitude that they were "God's chosen people" and could therefore do whatever they wanted. Rather than that kind of attitude, I want to have an attitude of thankfulness that God has made me His child. Then I want to serve Him with my life and worship Him with my whole heart.
PRAYER
Lord, thank you for adopting me as your child. Thank you for your patience as I learn and grow in you. As David said, teach me your ways and show me your path. I want to wholeheartedly love and serve you. Because of Jesus, amen.
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Psalm 104 - Open Your Eyes!
by Becky
LINK: Psalm 104
BACKGROUND
Even though no author is ascribed to this psalm, it is traditionally assigned to David.
This psalm praises God for His mightiness and bounty, revealed in His creation. Just look at the power of the images and figurative language! Creation is pictured as something that clothes God and does His bidding. There is a sense of wonder in this psalm – wonder at the provision and power of the LORD over nature. Nature is marvelled at, but not worshipped. Rather, nature points to the power and love of our Creator God.
Many commentators have noticed that Psalm 104 is a poetic version of creation account in Genesis. Notice the correspondence of the verses in this psalm to the days of Genesis 1.
The Life Application Study Bible explains it this way: “This psalm is a poetic summary of God’s creation of the world as found in the first chapter of Genesis. What God created each day is mentioned by the psalmist as a reason to praise God. On day one, God created light (104:1, 2; Genesis 1:3); day two, the heavens and waters (104:2, 3; Genesis 1:6); day three, land and vegetation (104: 6-18; Genesis 1:9-13); day four, the sun, moon, and stars (104: 19-23; Genesis 1: 14-16); day five, fish and birds (104: 25,26; Genesis 1: 20-23); and on day six, animals, people, and food to sustain them (104: 21-24, 27-30; Genesis 1: 24-31). God’s act of creation deserves the praise of all people.”
REFLECTION
As I’ve read and reread this psalm, it’s hit me again that God reveals Himself in the world He has created if we will just open our eyes and see. As I sit writing this I’m looking out into our backyard. A squirrel stands motionless for a few moments on the green carpet of grass, revealing his white shirted chest before he again begins exploring the ground for food. Flowers in hues of blue, pink, and purple show off amid the varied coolness of their plants’ green leaves. Sunlight reflects off the brick patio, interspersed with outlines of tree leaves traced in shadows. In the bushes and trees and bird house are nests of martins and cardinals and blue jays and thrushes and mockingbirds - testimonies to the continuation of life. All of these are gifts of God’s grace.
Yesterday as I stood watering my garden with the hose, a bird flew right past my right shoulder and landed on the limb of a tree directly above the spot I was spraying and about five feet away from me. It was a juvenile blue jay, still at the awkward stage! He fluffed up his wings and cocked his head and looked at me and then looked down at the water drops and fluttered to a limb about two feet down and a foot closer to me. Next thing I knew, he had made it down to the ground and begun to preen and turn himself in the water. He had a great time taking a shower about four feet away from me! When he’d had enough he flew just outside the range of the water and fluffed and dried his feathers in the sun. He provided me with a meditation not only on the pleasure of water and sun, but also with one on enjoying the moment and trust.
We take for granted God’s continuing provision for us and for this world. When things go wrong or there is a disaster we ask why – why did God allow that? But how often do we praise Him for the order and the beauty that we see every day? Day follows night over and over again. The moon goes through its cycle every month. We have rain and sunshine. Season follows season. There is a comforting rhythm to life.
God gives us daily feasts.
When I step outside in the daytime my ears feast on many different bird songs. The chirp- chirp of cardinals, the cooing of doves, the melodious song of the mockingird. At night there is the music of frogs and insects. I’ve already mentioned the feast for my eyes. He gives us literal feasting in the form of food. He didn’t have to give us beauty or make food taste good! He could have simply given us what we needed to survive. Instead He have us thousands of foods to eat, each with a different flavor.
This psalm glorifies God for being the Creator. It makes clear that creation itself is not in charge. Creation is never equated with God. The psalm also shows us that God continues to be involved in this world He has made. He didn’t just make it and let it go. God continues to care for it and us.
APPLICATION
Sit somewhere outside in a natural setting and read this psalm. Then ask the LORD to give you eyes to see. Jesus told of those who “seeing do not see” and “hearing do not hear” (Mt. 13:13). The world of nature helps us know its Maker. What does it tell you about Him?
Read again verses 27 – 32. What do those verses say about our dependence on God? What kind of response do they inspire? (Read Mt. 6: 25-33.)
Today try to consciously think of all that you are given to enjoy. Think about the food you eat, what you hear, what you see and touch and smell. Make a list if you want! Thank God for all the good He has freely given you. Thank Him.
PRAYER
I will sing to You, my LORD, as long as I live;
I will sing praise to You, my God, while I have my being.
May my meditation be sweet to You;
I will be glad in the LORD.
I will praise You!
LINK: Psalm 104
BACKGROUND
Even though no author is ascribed to this psalm, it is traditionally assigned to David.
This psalm praises God for His mightiness and bounty, revealed in His creation. Just look at the power of the images and figurative language! Creation is pictured as something that clothes God and does His bidding. There is a sense of wonder in this psalm – wonder at the provision and power of the LORD over nature. Nature is marvelled at, but not worshipped. Rather, nature points to the power and love of our Creator God.
Many commentators have noticed that Psalm 104 is a poetic version of creation account in Genesis. Notice the correspondence of the verses in this psalm to the days of Genesis 1.
The Life Application Study Bible explains it this way: “This psalm is a poetic summary of God’s creation of the world as found in the first chapter of Genesis. What God created each day is mentioned by the psalmist as a reason to praise God. On day one, God created light (104:1, 2; Genesis 1:3); day two, the heavens and waters (104:2, 3; Genesis 1:6); day three, land and vegetation (104: 6-18; Genesis 1:9-13); day four, the sun, moon, and stars (104: 19-23; Genesis 1: 14-16); day five, fish and birds (104: 25,26; Genesis 1: 20-23); and on day six, animals, people, and food to sustain them (104: 21-24, 27-30; Genesis 1: 24-31). God’s act of creation deserves the praise of all people.”
REFLECTION
As I’ve read and reread this psalm, it’s hit me again that God reveals Himself in the world He has created if we will just open our eyes and see. As I sit writing this I’m looking out into our backyard. A squirrel stands motionless for a few moments on the green carpet of grass, revealing his white shirted chest before he again begins exploring the ground for food. Flowers in hues of blue, pink, and purple show off amid the varied coolness of their plants’ green leaves. Sunlight reflects off the brick patio, interspersed with outlines of tree leaves traced in shadows. In the bushes and trees and bird house are nests of martins and cardinals and blue jays and thrushes and mockingbirds - testimonies to the continuation of life. All of these are gifts of God’s grace.
Yesterday as I stood watering my garden with the hose, a bird flew right past my right shoulder and landed on the limb of a tree directly above the spot I was spraying and about five feet away from me. It was a juvenile blue jay, still at the awkward stage! He fluffed up his wings and cocked his head and looked at me and then looked down at the water drops and fluttered to a limb about two feet down and a foot closer to me. Next thing I knew, he had made it down to the ground and begun to preen and turn himself in the water. He had a great time taking a shower about four feet away from me! When he’d had enough he flew just outside the range of the water and fluffed and dried his feathers in the sun. He provided me with a meditation not only on the pleasure of water and sun, but also with one on enjoying the moment and trust.
We take for granted God’s continuing provision for us and for this world. When things go wrong or there is a disaster we ask why – why did God allow that? But how often do we praise Him for the order and the beauty that we see every day? Day follows night over and over again. The moon goes through its cycle every month. We have rain and sunshine. Season follows season. There is a comforting rhythm to life.
God gives us daily feasts.
When I step outside in the daytime my ears feast on many different bird songs. The chirp- chirp of cardinals, the cooing of doves, the melodious song of the mockingird. At night there is the music of frogs and insects. I’ve already mentioned the feast for my eyes. He gives us literal feasting in the form of food. He didn’t have to give us beauty or make food taste good! He could have simply given us what we needed to survive. Instead He have us thousands of foods to eat, each with a different flavor.
This psalm glorifies God for being the Creator. It makes clear that creation itself is not in charge. Creation is never equated with God. The psalm also shows us that God continues to be involved in this world He has made. He didn’t just make it and let it go. God continues to care for it and us.
APPLICATION
Sit somewhere outside in a natural setting and read this psalm. Then ask the LORD to give you eyes to see. Jesus told of those who “seeing do not see” and “hearing do not hear” (Mt. 13:13). The world of nature helps us know its Maker. What does it tell you about Him?
Read again verses 27 – 32. What do those verses say about our dependence on God? What kind of response do they inspire? (Read Mt. 6: 25-33.)
Today try to consciously think of all that you are given to enjoy. Think about the food you eat, what you hear, what you see and touch and smell. Make a list if you want! Thank God for all the good He has freely given you. Thank Him.
PRAYER
I will sing to You, my LORD, as long as I live;
I will sing praise to You, my God, while I have my being.
May my meditation be sweet to You;
I will be glad in the LORD.
I will praise You!
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Isaiah 10 - Discipline & Hope
by Katrina
LINK: Isaiah 10
BACKGROUND
The first four verses of chapter ten are a continuation of God's indictment against His people. He targets the governing officials who have been enacting unjust legislation and making unjust rulings. They have taken justice out of the system, harming those whom they should be protecting. So God's punishment will hit them hard, and they will end in either exile or death.
The next section is verses 5-19 where God pronounces His judgment on Assyria. Assyria doesn't realize that they are being used by God to punish Judah. God's purpose was to chastise His people, but the Assyrian's purpose was to destroy them. Because Assyria is arrogant and cruel, God will destroy them.
Once again, amidst the talk of punishment, wrath, and destruction, God gives hope (vs 20-27). There will be a remnant of God's people who escape destruction and will turn to the Lord. God's wrath against His people will not last forever, but will soon turn against the Assyrians instead.
According to Dr. Ryrie, verses 28-32 describe Assyria's advance toward Jerusalem. All the cities named are within a three-hour march of Jerusalem.
REFLECTION
Can you think of a time when you have been disciplined by your heavenly Father? I have experienced God's discipline in my life and have learned to be thankful for it. He is a very gentle father when I listen to him early on, but if I am stubborn and hard-hearted He has to be harsher to get my attention. That's what happened with Israel and Judah as well. But take a look at Isaiah 10:20. ". . . those of the house of Jacob who have escaped will never again rely on the one who struck them, but will truly rely on the Lord, the Holy One of Israel." After it's all said and done, God's people will truly learn the lesson the Lord was trying to teach them all along.
APPLICATION
Read and meditate on Hebrews 12:3-11. Can you find God's purpose for disciplining us in this passage?
PRAYER
Lord, thank you for being a loving father toward us. You teach us and discipline us as a loving father would. And even during the pain of the discipline, you give us hope. Teach us to fully trust you as you make us holy. In the name of Jesus, amen.
LINK: Isaiah 10
BACKGROUND
The first four verses of chapter ten are a continuation of God's indictment against His people. He targets the governing officials who have been enacting unjust legislation and making unjust rulings. They have taken justice out of the system, harming those whom they should be protecting. So God's punishment will hit them hard, and they will end in either exile or death.
The next section is verses 5-19 where God pronounces His judgment on Assyria. Assyria doesn't realize that they are being used by God to punish Judah. God's purpose was to chastise His people, but the Assyrian's purpose was to destroy them. Because Assyria is arrogant and cruel, God will destroy them.
Once again, amidst the talk of punishment, wrath, and destruction, God gives hope (vs 20-27). There will be a remnant of God's people who escape destruction and will turn to the Lord. God's wrath against His people will not last forever, but will soon turn against the Assyrians instead.
According to Dr. Ryrie, verses 28-32 describe Assyria's advance toward Jerusalem. All the cities named are within a three-hour march of Jerusalem.
REFLECTION
Can you think of a time when you have been disciplined by your heavenly Father? I have experienced God's discipline in my life and have learned to be thankful for it. He is a very gentle father when I listen to him early on, but if I am stubborn and hard-hearted He has to be harsher to get my attention. That's what happened with Israel and Judah as well. But take a look at Isaiah 10:20. ". . . those of the house of Jacob who have escaped will never again rely on the one who struck them, but will truly rely on the Lord, the Holy One of Israel." After it's all said and done, God's people will truly learn the lesson the Lord was trying to teach them all along.
APPLICATION
Read and meditate on Hebrews 12:3-11. Can you find God's purpose for disciplining us in this passage?
PRAYER
Lord, thank you for being a loving father toward us. You teach us and discipline us as a loving father would. And even during the pain of the discipline, you give us hope. Teach us to fully trust you as you make us holy. In the name of Jesus, amen.
Monday, June 8, 2009
Isaiah 8&9
by Katrina
LINK: Isaiah 8-9
BACKGROUND
Isaiah married the virgin, and she conceived a son. The Lord told Isaiah to name the child Maher-shalal-hash-baz. Don't you just love how that name rolls off the tongue? ;) The name literally means "quick to plunder, swift to the spoil." This child was a sign to the nation that before the child could speak sentences (about age two), Assyria would conquer Syria and invade Israel. In 732 B.C., about two years after Isaiah's son was born, Rezin king of Syria and Pekah king of Israel were dead, Assyria had conquered Syria, and Assyria had begun to invade Israel. The Assyrian army was "quick to plunder and swift to the spoil."
In verses 5-22, Isaiah demonstrates Israel's folly of trusting Assyria instead of the Lord. There are three object lessons.
The rest of the chapter describes the judgment coming to Israel. God chastises His people, but when they refuse to repent, His chastisement turns to judgment and He unleashes His fury.
REFLECTION
"And you are not to fear what they fear or be in dread of it. It is the Lord of hosts whom you should regard as holy. And He shall be your fear, and He shall be your dread. Then He shall become a sanctuary." (Isaiah 8:12b-14a)
APPLICATION
Examine your own heart. Whom or what do you fear? Do you fear financial problems? Job loss? Difficult relationships? Government problems? Certain people in your life? Fear of man or of circumstances are snares to us. They trap us into trusting ourselves, other people, government, or organizations to take care of us. On the other hand, if we truly trust in God, He becomes our sanctuary, our place of safety. He is the One who has power over all those other things and people. He is the only one we should fear.
PRAYER
Lord, teach us to trust fully in You, for You are holy and completely worthy of our trust. Help us learn not to rely on ourselves, other people, or organizations and not to fear what they will do when we break off our alliance with them. You are our refuge, our sanctuary, our protection. Amen.
LINK: Isaiah 8-9
BACKGROUND
Isaiah married the virgin, and she conceived a son. The Lord told Isaiah to name the child Maher-shalal-hash-baz. Don't you just love how that name rolls off the tongue? ;) The name literally means "quick to plunder, swift to the spoil." This child was a sign to the nation that before the child could speak sentences (about age two), Assyria would conquer Syria and invade Israel. In 732 B.C., about two years after Isaiah's son was born, Rezin king of Syria and Pekah king of Israel were dead, Assyria had conquered Syria, and Assyria had begun to invade Israel. The Assyrian army was "quick to plunder and swift to the spoil."
In verses 5-22, Isaiah demonstrates Israel's folly of trusting Assyria instead of the Lord. There are three object lessons.
- Verses 5-10 - They rejected the gently flowing waters of the Lord and chose the rushing river of Assyria, the Euphrates. Instead of trusting in the Lord, they were trusting in their alliance with Assyria to protect them. They rejoiced when Assyria conquered Syria but didn't realize that they were next. Assyria would soon overpower them like a flood.
- Verses 11-15 - Anyone who did not support the alliance with Assyria was considered a conspirator against the nation. Isaiah pointed out that they should fear only the Lord. In fearing the Lord, the Lord would become their sanctuary, protecting them from enemies. But since they chose to trust in Assyria, they would not receive help from the Lord.
- Verses 16-22 - Here Isaiah describes their choice as shutting out the light and choosing to live in darkness instead.
The rest of the chapter describes the judgment coming to Israel. God chastises His people, but when they refuse to repent, His chastisement turns to judgment and He unleashes His fury.
REFLECTION
"And you are not to fear what they fear or be in dread of it. It is the Lord of hosts whom you should regard as holy. And He shall be your fear, and He shall be your dread. Then He shall become a sanctuary." (Isaiah 8:12b-14a)
APPLICATION
Examine your own heart. Whom or what do you fear? Do you fear financial problems? Job loss? Difficult relationships? Government problems? Certain people in your life? Fear of man or of circumstances are snares to us. They trap us into trusting ourselves, other people, government, or organizations to take care of us. On the other hand, if we truly trust in God, He becomes our sanctuary, our place of safety. He is the One who has power over all those other things and people. He is the only one we should fear.
PRAYER
Lord, teach us to trust fully in You, for You are holy and completely worthy of our trust. Help us learn not to rely on ourselves, other people, or organizations and not to fear what they will do when we break off our alliance with them. You are our refuge, our sanctuary, our protection. Amen.
Sunday, June 7, 2009
Psalm 103 - Bless the LORD, O My Soul!
by Becky
LINK: Psalm 103
BACKGROUND
This is one of my very favorite psalms! I want to bathe in it and let its words and thoughts wash over me. Not only is it beautiful poetically, but its words and ideas go deeper and deeper the more I meditate on it.
Evidently I am not alone:
There is too much in the Psalm, for a thousand pens to write, it is one of those all-comprehending Scriptures which is a Bible in itself, and it might alone almost suffice for the hymn-book of the church. … Spurgeon
The Psalm, in regard to number, is an alphabetical one, harmonized in such a way as that the concluding turns back into the introductory verse, the whole being in this manner finished and rounded off. …The Psalm bears the character of quiet tenderness. It is a still clear brook of the praise of God. … E. W. Hengstenberg
It is observable that no petition occurs throughout the entire compass of these twenty-two verses. Not a single word of supplication is in the whole Psalm addressed to the Most High. Prayer, fervent, heartfelt prayer, had doubtless been previously offered on the part of the Psalmist, and answered by his God. Innumerable blessings had been showered down from above in acknowledgment of David's supplications; and, therefore, an overflowing gratitude now bursts forth from their joyful recipient. He touches every chord of his harp and of his heart together, and pours forth a spontaneous melody of sweetest sound and purest praise.
... John Stevenson, in "Gratitude: an Exposition of the Hundred and Third Psalm," 1856.
REFLECTION
It’s timely that Psalm 103 be the one for this week. This past week marked the twentieth anniversary of the massacre of the protesters in Tiananmen Square in China and twenty years ago our family was poised to move to China. We did go later that summer. The next year was a rough one for me, one in which I came to realize in many ways my own frailty. I came to the end of my resources. I remember reading many of the psalms as I sobbed to the Lord. This one gave me strength. Verses 13 – 14, especially, comforted me:
“As a father pities his children,
so the LORD pities those who fear Him,
For He knows our frame;
He remembers that we are dust.”
The following hymn, based on this psalm, was penned by Henry Lyte, a pastor in England who had lung problems and frail health and yet managed to establish a Sunday school in his town for eight hundred children. He also wrote several other well-known hymns, among which are “Abide with Me” and “Jesus, I My Cross Have Taken.”
I’m linking the title to youtube, so those of you who aren’t familiar with it can hear it.
Praise, My Soul, the King of Heaven
(by Henry F. Lyte, 1793-1847)
Praise, my soul, the King of heaven;
To his feet your tribute bring;
Ransomed, healed, restored, forgiven,
Evermore His praises sing;
Alleluia, alleluia!
Praise the everlasting King.
Praise Him for His grace and favor
To His people in distress;
Praise Him still the same as ever,
Slow to chide, and swift to bless:
Alleluia, alleluia!
Glorious in His faithfulness.
Fatherlike He tends and spares us;
Well our feeble frame He knows;
In His hand He gently bears us,
Rescues us from all our foes.
Alleluia, alleluia!
Widely yet His mercy flows.
Angels, help us to adore Him;
You behold Him face to face;
Sun and moon, bow down before Him,
All who dwell in time and space.
Alleluia, alleluia!
Praise with us the God of grace.
By the way, this hymn was chosen by Queen Elizabeth II as her wedding hymn on November 20, 1947 in Westminster Abbey!
APPLICATION
Many spiritual blessings are listed in this psalm. What are they? Do you realize where they come from and do you praise God for them the way the psalmist, David, did?
According to this psalm, how is God’s love demonstrated? To whom is it given?
As you meditate on this psalm think about ONE thing you want to take with you. Will you share it with us?
PRAYER
Sing the hymn to God, thinking about the words.
LINK: Psalm 103
BACKGROUND
This is one of my very favorite psalms! I want to bathe in it and let its words and thoughts wash over me. Not only is it beautiful poetically, but its words and ideas go deeper and deeper the more I meditate on it.
Evidently I am not alone:
There is too much in the Psalm, for a thousand pens to write, it is one of those all-comprehending Scriptures which is a Bible in itself, and it might alone almost suffice for the hymn-book of the church. … Spurgeon
The Psalm, in regard to number, is an alphabetical one, harmonized in such a way as that the concluding turns back into the introductory verse, the whole being in this manner finished and rounded off. …The Psalm bears the character of quiet tenderness. It is a still clear brook of the praise of God. … E. W. Hengstenberg
It is observable that no petition occurs throughout the entire compass of these twenty-two verses. Not a single word of supplication is in the whole Psalm addressed to the Most High. Prayer, fervent, heartfelt prayer, had doubtless been previously offered on the part of the Psalmist, and answered by his God. Innumerable blessings had been showered down from above in acknowledgment of David's supplications; and, therefore, an overflowing gratitude now bursts forth from their joyful recipient. He touches every chord of his harp and of his heart together, and pours forth a spontaneous melody of sweetest sound and purest praise.
... John Stevenson, in "Gratitude: an Exposition of the Hundred and Third Psalm," 1856.
REFLECTION
It’s timely that Psalm 103 be the one for this week. This past week marked the twentieth anniversary of the massacre of the protesters in Tiananmen Square in China and twenty years ago our family was poised to move to China. We did go later that summer. The next year was a rough one for me, one in which I came to realize in many ways my own frailty. I came to the end of my resources. I remember reading many of the psalms as I sobbed to the Lord. This one gave me strength. Verses 13 – 14, especially, comforted me:
“As a father pities his children,
so the LORD pities those who fear Him,
For He knows our frame;
He remembers that we are dust.”
The following hymn, based on this psalm, was penned by Henry Lyte, a pastor in England who had lung problems and frail health and yet managed to establish a Sunday school in his town for eight hundred children. He also wrote several other well-known hymns, among which are “Abide with Me” and “Jesus, I My Cross Have Taken.”
I’m linking the title to youtube, so those of you who aren’t familiar with it can hear it.
Praise, My Soul, the King of Heaven
(by Henry F. Lyte, 1793-1847)
Praise, my soul, the King of heaven;
To his feet your tribute bring;
Ransomed, healed, restored, forgiven,
Evermore His praises sing;
Alleluia, alleluia!
Praise the everlasting King.
Praise Him for His grace and favor
To His people in distress;
Praise Him still the same as ever,
Slow to chide, and swift to bless:
Alleluia, alleluia!
Glorious in His faithfulness.
Fatherlike He tends and spares us;
Well our feeble frame He knows;
In His hand He gently bears us,
Rescues us from all our foes.
Alleluia, alleluia!
Widely yet His mercy flows.
Angels, help us to adore Him;
You behold Him face to face;
Sun and moon, bow down before Him,
All who dwell in time and space.
Alleluia, alleluia!
Praise with us the God of grace.
By the way, this hymn was chosen by Queen Elizabeth II as her wedding hymn on November 20, 1947 in Westminster Abbey!
APPLICATION
Many spiritual blessings are listed in this psalm. What are they? Do you realize where they come from and do you praise God for them the way the psalmist, David, did?
According to this psalm, how is God’s love demonstrated? To whom is it given?
As you meditate on this psalm think about ONE thing you want to take with you. Will you share it with us?
PRAYER
Sing the hymn to God, thinking about the words.
Saturday, June 6, 2009
Isaiah 6 & 7 - Isaiah Sees God and Speaks of God with Us
LINK: Isaiah 6 & 7
Isaiah 6 - Seeing the Lord and Saying "YES"
This vision occurred sometime during the calendar year 740-739 B.C. when King Uzziah (called Azariah in 2 Kings 14:21) died, Isaiah had a vision of the LORD in the temple. Many commentators believe that the “temple” Isaiah is referring to is the heavenly one.
In this temple, Isaiah SEES God in all His holiness; high and exalted with His glory filling the temple. Isn't that AWESOME! Pause to think about this.
As a result, he is convicted of his own sinfulness in light of a holy God. Aiding the Lord in this vision were the seraphim. This is the only time they are referenced as “seraphim” in Scripture, but some believe that the living creatures mentioned in Revelation 4:6-9 refer to them. The Hebrew word for seraphim means “to burn,” and these angelic creatures functioned as purifiers as the coal was brought to Isaiah’s lips to burn away the guilt of his sin.
God’s holiness is mentioned three times: "Holy, holy, holy." Repeating is common in the Old Testament (Jeremiah 22:29; Ezekiel 21:27) and suggests God’s supreme or complete holiness.
Once cleansed, Isaiah is given the call to preach a message of repentance until God’s judgment came, even though the people would be unresponsive (oh joy). Note that God says “. . . who will go for Us?” The word “Us” hints at the Trinity (much like Genesis 1:26; 11:7).
In spite of knowing that the people would be unresponsive (How many of you would do a ministry that had little to no results?), First, Isaiah responds willingly. Then, God gives a message of hope: there will be a believing remnant who would be preserved in the land.
Isaiah 7 – The Promise of Immanuel (God with us)
In 734 B.C., Ahaz, king of Judah in Jerusalem (and one of Judah’s worst kings), is about to be attacked by the northern kingdom of Israel and Aram. He is frightened by the possibility of invading armies, but as Isaiah predicts, the kingdom of Judah did not come to an end. Ahaz refuses God’s help and tries to buy aid from the Assyrians (2 Kings 16:8), but the Assyrians bring more trouble than help. n 722 B.C., Samaria, the capital of Ephraim (another word for Israel, the northern kingdom) fell to the Assyrian armies, and the northern kingdom came to an end.
The prophecy of Immanuel in 7:13-16 is a scarlet thread of redemption passage. The immediate fulfillment will be that a young woman will conceive and bear a son named Immanuel; and before three years passed, the two invading kings would be destroyed. The ultimate fulfillment of this prophecy is in the Lord Jesus Christ, born of a virgin and “God with us” (Matthew 1:18-25; Luke 1:31-35)!
REFLECTION
This post is late because, in the midst of meditating on this passage, we had a phone call discussing procedures and protocols in a ministry in which we are currently involved. I had Isaiah’s vision right in front of me; and as my brain got really tired hearing about all the mechanics and “hoops” of this ministry, I just wanted to get off the phone and “see the Lord exalted on His throne" and get my marching orders from Him!
Sometimes, we lose sight of “seeing” God in the midst of busy activity in “Kingdom” work. Isaiah did not have to enter his encounter with the Lord in an “online reporting data base” in order to make sure everyone in his organization could track his progress. I don’t mean to be sarcastic in this, but I think we make ministry so much more complicated than it needs to be. It makes my head hurt and my eyes glaze over. I don’t want to lose sight of the whole reason why we “do” ministry in the first place.
So the point of this reflection is simple:
Don’t let your mission get in the way of your Master.
Now, I am off to behold Him.
APPLICATION
Behold the Lord today. He is "with" you in all your activity and busy-ness. Isn't that awesome?
PRAYER
Holy, holy, holy are You Lord! The whole earth is full of Your glory. We worship You in the beauty of Your holiness, and we know that we fall short of your holiness and ask that You search our hearts and bring before us those things that are not holy in our lives. Thank You that the blood of Jesus purifies us. Bring us into right relationship with You. Open our eyes that we might see You in all Your fullness and glory. We want to be caught up in the wonder of You so that we might go where You would have us go and do what You would have us do for Your glory. We ask all this in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Isaiah 1 - An Amazing Offer
by Katrina
LINK: Isaiah 1
INTRODUCTION:
I'm looking forward to this "trip" through Isaiah. It will be at a slower pace than I've read it before, and that makes it easier to meditate on it and let it "soak in" more. But before we begin reading, let's take a quick peek at some background information for this book.
Isaiah was a man who was very much in touch with his God. He had an active relationship with the Lord. He was also an effective communicator of God's message to Judah, often using striking language and real life illustrations. He loved the people of his nation but hated their sin. His message to Judah was very unpopular, but he courageously proclaimed what God instructed him, even in the face of persecution.
Isaiah began his ministry in the year that King Uzziah (of Judah) died (739 B.C.) and continued through the reigns of Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah. He probably died during the reign of Manasseh. We will discover more about this great man of God as we read through this book.
The book of Isaiah is one of the most quoted books of the Old Testament. The gospels refer to several of the prophesies concerning the Messiah, Jesus quoted Isaiah, and Paul quoted from this book extensively in his epistles. So some of these passages will probably be familiar to you even if you've never read Isaiah before.
The name "Isaiah" means "salvation of the Lord." As you read this book, look for the theme of deliverance, or salvation. There will be several different acts of deliverance that God will perform.
BACKGROUND
Chapter one is Isaiah's first message to Judah and is full of vivid word pictures. It is God's indictment against the nation. The sins listed range from chasing after wealth to committing murder. Although they carry out their religious duties, the activities are meaningless because their hearts are not in it at all. God likens them to the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah. God threatens a judgment that will be very destructive and leave only a very small remnant in the land. Yet God promised that after the judgment there would be restoration.
REFLECTION
This chapter is like a courtroom scene where the judge is handing down his judgment. The list of crimes is read off to prove guilt, and then just punishment is declared. The crimes were committed against the judge himself, and the judge has every right to completely destroy the guilty people. Yet, in the middle of God's indictment, he offers an opportunity for repentance! (vs 18-20) If the convicted criminals stop rebelling and listen to God, they can be completely forgiven. They will not have to suffer the punishment they deserve. Rather they will "eat the best of the land" and have their sins washed from scarlet to "white as snow." What an incredible offer! Too bad they didn't take it. :(
APPLICATION
I, also, once stood condemned in the courtroom of God. He could have read off a very long list of crimes I had committed against him. Yet, he chose to offer me an opportunity for repentance. I did not deserve it, but he washed my sins away and completely forgave me. I now stand before him completely free of guilt. What a wonderful savior!
PRAYER
Lord, you are the ultimate judge, the one against whom all sin is committed. You have the right to condemn, yet you choose to offer us the opportunity to repent. Then you wash our scarlet sins away and leave us as white as snow. Our guilt is gone! What an amazing God you are! You are worthy of all our praise and worship. We give you all the glory for the work you do in our hearts to cleanse us. Thank you for providing forgiveness to us through your son Jesus, amen.
LINK: Isaiah 1
INTRODUCTION:
I'm looking forward to this "trip" through Isaiah. It will be at a slower pace than I've read it before, and that makes it easier to meditate on it and let it "soak in" more. But before we begin reading, let's take a quick peek at some background information for this book.
Isaiah was a man who was very much in touch with his God. He had an active relationship with the Lord. He was also an effective communicator of God's message to Judah, often using striking language and real life illustrations. He loved the people of his nation but hated their sin. His message to Judah was very unpopular, but he courageously proclaimed what God instructed him, even in the face of persecution.
Isaiah began his ministry in the year that King Uzziah (of Judah) died (739 B.C.) and continued through the reigns of Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah. He probably died during the reign of Manasseh. We will discover more about this great man of God as we read through this book.
The book of Isaiah is one of the most quoted books of the Old Testament. The gospels refer to several of the prophesies concerning the Messiah, Jesus quoted Isaiah, and Paul quoted from this book extensively in his epistles. So some of these passages will probably be familiar to you even if you've never read Isaiah before.
The name "Isaiah" means "salvation of the Lord." As you read this book, look for the theme of deliverance, or salvation. There will be several different acts of deliverance that God will perform.
BACKGROUND
Chapter one is Isaiah's first message to Judah and is full of vivid word pictures. It is God's indictment against the nation. The sins listed range from chasing after wealth to committing murder. Although they carry out their religious duties, the activities are meaningless because their hearts are not in it at all. God likens them to the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah. God threatens a judgment that will be very destructive and leave only a very small remnant in the land. Yet God promised that after the judgment there would be restoration.
REFLECTION
This chapter is like a courtroom scene where the judge is handing down his judgment. The list of crimes is read off to prove guilt, and then just punishment is declared. The crimes were committed against the judge himself, and the judge has every right to completely destroy the guilty people. Yet, in the middle of God's indictment, he offers an opportunity for repentance! (vs 18-20) If the convicted criminals stop rebelling and listen to God, they can be completely forgiven. They will not have to suffer the punishment they deserve. Rather they will "eat the best of the land" and have their sins washed from scarlet to "white as snow." What an incredible offer! Too bad they didn't take it. :(
APPLICATION
I, also, once stood condemned in the courtroom of God. He could have read off a very long list of crimes I had committed against him. Yet, he chose to offer me an opportunity for repentance. I did not deserve it, but he washed my sins away and completely forgave me. I now stand before him completely free of guilt. What a wonderful savior!
PRAYER
Lord, you are the ultimate judge, the one against whom all sin is committed. You have the right to condemn, yet you choose to offer us the opportunity to repent. Then you wash our scarlet sins away and leave us as white as snow. Our guilt is gone! What an amazing God you are! You are worthy of all our praise and worship. We give you all the glory for the work you do in our hearts to cleanse us. Thank you for providing forgiveness to us through your son Jesus, amen.
Monday, June 1, 2009
2 Chronicles 33 - Worst King Ever
by Katrina
LINK: 2 Chronicles 33
parallel passage: 2 Kings 21
BACKGROUND
Manasseh began his reign around 697 B.C. at the age of twelve. Most likely he co-reigned with his father Hezekiah for a number of years. His claim to fame is that he was the most wicked of all the kings of Judah. What a sad legacy!
Hazekiah had done a lot of work to reform the nation and turn the people back to God, but Manasseh undid all of his father's work. He built altars to more and more gods, and even put altars in the temple itself. He didn't just build altars, though, he practiced the pagan religions, even putting his own sons through the fire for the god Molech. Under Manasseh's leadership, the people of Judah declined to a point below the low morality of the former inhabitants of Canaan. How very sad!
God sent prophets to Manasseh and the people, but they did not heed them. So the Lord brought the Assyrians to Judah. They captured Manasseh and led him as a captive to Babylon. This was probably during the reign of Ashurbanipal in 648 B.C. Babylon was like a second capital in Assyria at that time. During this captivity, Manasseh turned to the Lord and was humbled. When he was released and returned to Jerusalem, he began a reformation in keeping with his repentance.
But much damage had already been done and Manasseh's reform didn't "take." When Manasseh died, his son Amon ruled Judah and led the nation back to the former ways of his father. Amon never humbled himself and ruled for only two years before his own servants conspired against him and murdered him.
In the end, Manasseh was blamed for the destruction of the kingdom of Judah. The following passages refer to the destruction of Judah by the Babylonians.
REFLECTION/APPLICATION
Our actions can have effects that reverberate through the succeeding generations. Hezekiah's repentance apparently had much less effect on his son Manasseh than his disobedience did. And Manasseh's repentance had no affect on his son Amon. It was probably too late. By the time his father repented, Amon would have already been well down the wrong path in his life.
I think deeper than the outward actions themselves, the heart attitude is passed down to the next generation. And here is where I look at my own heart and wonder, "What messages am I sending to my children? Does the attitude of my heart match the teaching of my lips? Am I demonstrating to them an attitude of humility before the Lord?" Sometimes I harbor sin in my heart. Do I think my children don't notice? When they watch my life, what are they learning?
And it doesn't just affect family. These kings led the entire nation of people astray into idolatry and immorality. Each of us has a circle of influence. There are people around you who notice what you do and what your attitude is. What kind of an effect do you have on them?
PRAYER
Lord, teach us to be truly humble before you. Let us seek you whole-heartedly and thereby demonstrate YOU to those around us. Help us to lead our children to have humble hearts before you, God. Help us to have an effect on others that reflects what you have done in our lives as our savior. In the name of our wonderful savior, Jesus, amen.
LINK: 2 Chronicles 33
parallel passage: 2 Kings 21
BACKGROUND
Manasseh began his reign around 697 B.C. at the age of twelve. Most likely he co-reigned with his father Hezekiah for a number of years. His claim to fame is that he was the most wicked of all the kings of Judah. What a sad legacy!
Hazekiah had done a lot of work to reform the nation and turn the people back to God, but Manasseh undid all of his father's work. He built altars to more and more gods, and even put altars in the temple itself. He didn't just build altars, though, he practiced the pagan religions, even putting his own sons through the fire for the god Molech. Under Manasseh's leadership, the people of Judah declined to a point below the low morality of the former inhabitants of Canaan. How very sad!
God sent prophets to Manasseh and the people, but they did not heed them. So the Lord brought the Assyrians to Judah. They captured Manasseh and led him as a captive to Babylon. This was probably during the reign of Ashurbanipal in 648 B.C. Babylon was like a second capital in Assyria at that time. During this captivity, Manasseh turned to the Lord and was humbled. When he was released and returned to Jerusalem, he began a reformation in keeping with his repentance.
But much damage had already been done and Manasseh's reform didn't "take." When Manasseh died, his son Amon ruled Judah and led the nation back to the former ways of his father. Amon never humbled himself and ruled for only two years before his own servants conspired against him and murdered him.
In the end, Manasseh was blamed for the destruction of the kingdom of Judah. The following passages refer to the destruction of Judah by the Babylonians.
Surely at the command of the Lord it came upon Judah, to remove them from His sight because of the sins of Manasseh, according to all that he had done, and also for the innocent blood which he shed, for he filled Jerusalem with innocent blood; and the Lord would not forgive. (2 Kings 24:3-4)
And I shall make them an object of horror among all the kingdoms of the earth because of Manasseh, the son of Hezekiah, the king of Judah, for what he did in Jerusalem. (Jeremiah 15:4)
REFLECTION/APPLICATION
Our actions can have effects that reverberate through the succeeding generations. Hezekiah's repentance apparently had much less effect on his son Manasseh than his disobedience did. And Manasseh's repentance had no affect on his son Amon. It was probably too late. By the time his father repented, Amon would have already been well down the wrong path in his life.
I think deeper than the outward actions themselves, the heart attitude is passed down to the next generation. And here is where I look at my own heart and wonder, "What messages am I sending to my children? Does the attitude of my heart match the teaching of my lips? Am I demonstrating to them an attitude of humility before the Lord?" Sometimes I harbor sin in my heart. Do I think my children don't notice? When they watch my life, what are they learning?
And it doesn't just affect family. These kings led the entire nation of people astray into idolatry and immorality. Each of us has a circle of influence. There are people around you who notice what you do and what your attitude is. What kind of an effect do you have on them?
PRAYER
Lord, teach us to be truly humble before you. Let us seek you whole-heartedly and thereby demonstrate YOU to those around us. Help us to lead our children to have humble hearts before you, God. Help us to have an effect on others that reflects what you have done in our lives as our savior. In the name of our wonderful savior, Jesus, amen.
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Psalms 100 & 101 - Praising God in Word and Life
by Becky
LINK: Psalm 100 and Psalm 101
BACKGROUND AND REFLECTION
Psalm 100
This psalm is full of delight in the LORD.
It is all about Him. He is God. He made us – we didn’t make ourselves. Implication: we are here for Him, not ourselves. We belong to Him; we are His sheep. Implication: We follow Him and trust Him, just as sheep trust their shepherd.
Read this psalm out loud. When my husband and I were first married, we were part of a Bible study and sang some great scripture songs with a guitar. This psalm was one of them. I still want to sing it when I read it.
KNOW that the LORD – HE IS GOD! HE IS GOOD; HIS MERCY and TRUTH are EVERLASTING.
Augustine said this: “ I call [love to God] the motion of the soul toward the enjoyment of God for his own sake, and the enjoyment of one’s self and of one’s neighbor for the sake of God .” (from On Christian Doctrine)
Psalm 101
It is generally thought that this psalm was written by David either just before or at the beginning of his reign. Luther called it “David’s mirror of a monarch.” In it, David makes certain resolutions about how he will live. The more I’ve meditated on this psalm, the more it reminds me of Proverbs!
David begins this psalm with this verbal praise:
I will sing of your love and justice.
I will praise you, LORD, with songs.
He goes on to recount ways he will praise God in the practice of his life. So I think that’s an important reminder to us. God is characterized by love and justice; if we are called by His name then our lives should reflect those characteristics. Yes, we are to worship and praise God with our lips, but living life with integrity is also a way to praise Him. I will go so far as to say that if we are truly praising God in our hearts, it will overflow both to our lips and to the way we live.
David isn’t making these resolutions lightly.
I will behave wisely in a perfect way.
Oh, when will You come to me?
His heart’s desire is for wise actions and to walk perfectly with God. But he knows himself and his weakness and that he needs God’s help. So he cries to God and asks when He will come. What a wonderful way to begin.
He resolves to live with integrity in his own home. What is integrity? Well, it’s the opposite of hypocrisy. There’s an idea of wholeness to integrity – that the goodness seen is there all the way through – not a façade. In a sense, it’s simplicity of character – no cover-ups or subterfuges. Sometimes our homes are the hardest places to live with integrity. Our families see us as we truly are.
David wants to avoid certain actions and kinds of people. Look at the list (vv 3-5):
I will not look at worthless things.
I will not be gripped by dishonest dealings.
I will reject having a perverse mind/heart/understanding (perverse means willfully turned
away from what is right).
I will not tolerate someone who secretly slanders (maliciously tells a false report about) her neighbor.
I will not endure someone who looks down on others and acts arrogantly (displays a sense of overbearing self-worth or self-importance).
David concludes the psalm by saying that he will watch for those who are faithful so that he can to spend time with them, that they can serve in his court. He wants his reign to be characterized by faithfulness and goodness, rather than falsehood and evil which have no place in the city of God.
It seems to me that David would define faithful people as those who live Micah 6:8:
“He has shown you, oh man what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justly [do what is right], to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.”
APPLICATION
From Psalm 100 - Am I delighting in the LORD? Do I offer Him shouts of of praise and songs of thanksgiving?
From Psalm 101 – Am I delighting in the LORD? Do I fix my gaze on what is ultimately worthless or is my gaze fixed on the LORD Jesus? Do I value what He values? Does my life reflect Him?
PRAYER
We praise You, our Creator and Shepherd. Thank you for Your mercy and goodness. Thank you that You are truth. Help us to live our lives in the light of that mercy, goodness, and truth. Help us to reflect You in what we value and how we live.
LINK: Psalm 100 and Psalm 101
BACKGROUND AND REFLECTION
Psalm 100
This psalm is full of delight in the LORD.
It is all about Him. He is God. He made us – we didn’t make ourselves. Implication: we are here for Him, not ourselves. We belong to Him; we are His sheep. Implication: We follow Him and trust Him, just as sheep trust their shepherd.
Read this psalm out loud. When my husband and I were first married, we were part of a Bible study and sang some great scripture songs with a guitar. This psalm was one of them. I still want to sing it when I read it.
KNOW that the LORD – HE IS GOD! HE IS GOOD; HIS MERCY and TRUTH are EVERLASTING.
Augustine said this: “ I call [love to God] the motion of the soul toward the enjoyment of God for his own sake, and the enjoyment of one’s self and of one’s neighbor for the sake of God .” (from On Christian Doctrine)
Psalm 101
It is generally thought that this psalm was written by David either just before or at the beginning of his reign. Luther called it “David’s mirror of a monarch.” In it, David makes certain resolutions about how he will live. The more I’ve meditated on this psalm, the more it reminds me of Proverbs!
David begins this psalm with this verbal praise:
I will sing of your love and justice.
I will praise you, LORD, with songs.
He goes on to recount ways he will praise God in the practice of his life. So I think that’s an important reminder to us. God is characterized by love and justice; if we are called by His name then our lives should reflect those characteristics. Yes, we are to worship and praise God with our lips, but living life with integrity is also a way to praise Him. I will go so far as to say that if we are truly praising God in our hearts, it will overflow both to our lips and to the way we live.
David isn’t making these resolutions lightly.
I will behave wisely in a perfect way.
Oh, when will You come to me?
His heart’s desire is for wise actions and to walk perfectly with God. But he knows himself and his weakness and that he needs God’s help. So he cries to God and asks when He will come. What a wonderful way to begin.
He resolves to live with integrity in his own home. What is integrity? Well, it’s the opposite of hypocrisy. There’s an idea of wholeness to integrity – that the goodness seen is there all the way through – not a façade. In a sense, it’s simplicity of character – no cover-ups or subterfuges. Sometimes our homes are the hardest places to live with integrity. Our families see us as we truly are.
David wants to avoid certain actions and kinds of people. Look at the list (vv 3-5):
I will not look at worthless things.
I will not be gripped by dishonest dealings.
I will reject having a perverse mind/heart/understanding (perverse means willfully turned
away from what is right).
I will not tolerate someone who secretly slanders (maliciously tells a false report about) her neighbor.
I will not endure someone who looks down on others and acts arrogantly (displays a sense of overbearing self-worth or self-importance).
David concludes the psalm by saying that he will watch for those who are faithful so that he can to spend time with them, that they can serve in his court. He wants his reign to be characterized by faithfulness and goodness, rather than falsehood and evil which have no place in the city of God.
It seems to me that David would define faithful people as those who live Micah 6:8:
“He has shown you, oh man what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justly [do what is right], to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.”
APPLICATION
From Psalm 100 - Am I delighting in the LORD? Do I offer Him shouts of of praise and songs of thanksgiving?
From Psalm 101 – Am I delighting in the LORD? Do I fix my gaze on what is ultimately worthless or is my gaze fixed on the LORD Jesus? Do I value what He values? Does my life reflect Him?
PRAYER
We praise You, our Creator and Shepherd. Thank you for Your mercy and goodness. Thank you that You are truth. Help us to live our lives in the light of that mercy, goodness, and truth. Help us to reflect You in what we value and how we live.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Hosea 10 - It's Time to Seek the Lord
by Katrina
LINK: Hosea 10
BACKGROUND
Chapter ten gives a description of Israel's pride in self. They claim to be wealthy in and of themselves. They have no need for God, and trust in themselves instead. The richer they become, the more they turn away from God and worship idols. But God is going to chastise them. He will demonstrate his power to them. He is going to show them who he is, and they will be destroyed.
REFLECTION/APPLICATION
Verse 12 says, "Sow with a view to righteousness. Reap in accordance with kindness. Break up your fallow ground, for it is time to seek the Lord until He comes to rain righteousness on you."
Fallow ground is land that has not been recently cultivated. This land is hard and full of weeds. Our hearts can get hard and full of weeds (sin) if we don't keep cultivating (plowing) the soil of our hearts. We cultivate the soil of our hearts by being repentant and seeking after God.
Once soil is broken up by the plow, seeds can be planted. Likewise, once our hearts are softened through repentance, the seed of God's word can be planted and grow in our hearts.
The cultivated ground can soak up the rains, while the rains run off the hard, fallow ground. Likewise, if our hearts are cultivated by God, then his righteousness soaks in and becomes a part of who we are.
It is good to examine our hearts periodically and look for hardened areas where we keep God out. Do you have any of those areas in your life? Confess them to God and allow him to cultivate his righteousness in your heart. "For it is time to seek the Lord."
PRAYER
Lord, we confess we do not always want to give you full access to our hearts. We are often proud and sinful, and rather than seeking you we try to hide from you. Break up those hard areas of our hearts and cultivate your word in us. Amen.
LINK: Hosea 10
BACKGROUND
Chapter ten gives a description of Israel's pride in self. They claim to be wealthy in and of themselves. They have no need for God, and trust in themselves instead. The richer they become, the more they turn away from God and worship idols. But God is going to chastise them. He will demonstrate his power to them. He is going to show them who he is, and they will be destroyed.
REFLECTION/APPLICATION
Verse 12 says, "Sow with a view to righteousness. Reap in accordance with kindness. Break up your fallow ground, for it is time to seek the Lord until He comes to rain righteousness on you."
Fallow ground is land that has not been recently cultivated. This land is hard and full of weeds. Our hearts can get hard and full of weeds (sin) if we don't keep cultivating (plowing) the soil of our hearts. We cultivate the soil of our hearts by being repentant and seeking after God.
Once soil is broken up by the plow, seeds can be planted. Likewise, once our hearts are softened through repentance, the seed of God's word can be planted and grow in our hearts.
The cultivated ground can soak up the rains, while the rains run off the hard, fallow ground. Likewise, if our hearts are cultivated by God, then his righteousness soaks in and becomes a part of who we are.
It is good to examine our hearts periodically and look for hardened areas where we keep God out. Do you have any of those areas in your life? Confess them to God and allow him to cultivate his righteousness in your heart. "For it is time to seek the Lord."
PRAYER
Lord, we confess we do not always want to give you full access to our hearts. We are often proud and sinful, and rather than seeking you we try to hide from you. Break up those hard areas of our hearts and cultivate your word in us. Amen.
Monday, May 25, 2009
Hosea 9 - Judgment Day Arrives
by Katrina
LINK: Hosea 9
BACKGROUND
This is a sobering chapter telling Israel that their time is up. Punishment is around the corner. It is time for the nation to reap what it has sown, like Hosea referred to in chapter eight.
Here are a few notes to help clarify some of the verses in this chapter:
Ephraim is the larger of the two tribes of Israel, and the title is used to refer to the whole nation.
v 1 - The threshing floor was a large flat area, often on a hill, where the grain was beaten to separate the chaff from the kernel of grain. During the threshing season, men would often sleep on the threshing floor to protect the grain from thieves. (You may remember that Boaz slept on his threshing floor in the book of Ruth.) Prostitutes would visit the men at the threshing floors.
v 3 - Some of the Israelites did leave and go to Egypt during this period of time. See 2 Kings 25:26.
v 7-8 - Not liking the message of Hosea, the people mocked the messenger.
v 9 - Refers to Judges 19-20 when the men of the city wanted to have sex with a man who was visiting overnight. They were given his concubine, whom they abused all night instead. Then the people rose up and destroyed the entire city.
v 10 - The sin at Baal-Peor is told in Numbers 25 and occurred shortly before God transferred leadership from Moses to Joshua.
v 15 - The evil at Gilgal was appointing a human king (Saul) over the nation of Israel (1 Samuel 11).
REFLECTION/APPLICATION
I wonder how many times I have ignored or mocked a messenger just because I didn't want to hear what he had to say. Or maybe I've ignored some warnings in Scripture, thinking they don't apply to me. This chapter concludes with the words, "My God will cast them away because they have not listened to Him. . . " Oh, I pray that would not be true of me!
PRAYER
Lord, help us to truly listen to you with our hearts and seek after you with all of our beings. Let us not get distracted with the glitter and sins of this world but seek to obey you in all things. Amen.
LINK: Hosea 9
BACKGROUND
This is a sobering chapter telling Israel that their time is up. Punishment is around the corner. It is time for the nation to reap what it has sown, like Hosea referred to in chapter eight.
Here are a few notes to help clarify some of the verses in this chapter:
Ephraim is the larger of the two tribes of Israel, and the title is used to refer to the whole nation.
v 1 - The threshing floor was a large flat area, often on a hill, where the grain was beaten to separate the chaff from the kernel of grain. During the threshing season, men would often sleep on the threshing floor to protect the grain from thieves. (You may remember that Boaz slept on his threshing floor in the book of Ruth.) Prostitutes would visit the men at the threshing floors.
v 3 - Some of the Israelites did leave and go to Egypt during this period of time. See 2 Kings 25:26.
v 7-8 - Not liking the message of Hosea, the people mocked the messenger.
v 9 - Refers to Judges 19-20 when the men of the city wanted to have sex with a man who was visiting overnight. They were given his concubine, whom they abused all night instead. Then the people rose up and destroyed the entire city.
v 10 - The sin at Baal-Peor is told in Numbers 25 and occurred shortly before God transferred leadership from Moses to Joshua.
v 15 - The evil at Gilgal was appointing a human king (Saul) over the nation of Israel (1 Samuel 11).
REFLECTION/APPLICATION
I wonder how many times I have ignored or mocked a messenger just because I didn't want to hear what he had to say. Or maybe I've ignored some warnings in Scripture, thinking they don't apply to me. This chapter concludes with the words, "My God will cast them away because they have not listened to Him. . . " Oh, I pray that would not be true of me!
PRAYER
Lord, help us to truly listen to you with our hearts and seek after you with all of our beings. Let us not get distracted with the glitter and sins of this world but seek to obey you in all things. Amen.
Sunday, May 24, 2009
Psalms 98 & 99 - Serious Joy!
LINK: Psalm 98 and Psalm 99
by Becky
BACKGROUND AND REFLECTION
Psalm 98
Look at the last two verses of Psalm 98!
… He is coming to judge the earth.
With righteousness, He shall judge the world,
And the peoples with equity.
This psalm praises God not only for what He has done, but for what He will do. We have seen more than the poet who wrote this psalm did, because we’ve seen God’s salvation and mercy and righteousness revealed in Jesus. When we think of the victory God has gained (v 1) and how “the LORD has made known His salvation and righteousness in the sight of the nations,” (v 2) we think of God coming in the flesh in the person of Jesus – who lived and died and rose again for ALL NATIONS – for all of us. But there’s still a future hope: God will come yet again to judge in righteousness and justice and uprightness.
Which leads us into Psalm 99….
One of these days I’m going to write the entry for the second psalm first! I get so caught up in the first psalm of the pair when I have two to write, that I give the next one short shrift.
Psalm 99 focuses again on God as King. This time His holiness is emphasized.
It seems to me that we neglect focusing on God’s attribute of holiness these days. Well, this psalm doesn’t!
Three times the refrain of God’s holiness is repeated! He is holy (v 3); He is holy (v 5); … the LORD our God is holy (v 9). God’s holiness is spoken of not in abstract, but as something active.
It’s worth noting that again the poet recounts God’s actions in the past: Moses, Aaron, Samuel all called upon the Lord, and God answered them. (v 6) How did He answer them? What was their response to His answer? I hope you’ll take the time to ponder this.
I love how over and over again in Scripture God reveals Himself in paradox. Look at verse 8:
You answered them, O LORD our God;
You were to them God-Who-Forgives,
Though You took vengeance on their deeds.
by Becky
BACKGROUND AND REFLECTION
Psalm 98
This psalm, along with Psalms 93 and Psalms 95-99 are called the royal psalms because they focus on God as King.
Remember how the Israelites cried for a king? They wanted to be like all the nations around them. But from the very beginning God made it clear that He is King. And what a ruler He is!
Psalm 98 begins, “Oh sing to the Lord a new song!” This “new song” seems to be centered on God’s salvation and redemption rather than on God’s creation. The psalmist praises God in the present for what He has done in the past and continues to do, and for what He will do in the future. Just looking back at what we’ve read in BBC, think of all the times we’ve read of how God visibly saved (or rescued) His people: Noah, Abraham, Jacob, Joseph, the Hebrew people in Egypt, crossing the Red Sea, fighting Jericho, leaving Babylon to rebuild Jerusalem’s wall and the temple. That’s just a partial list. I have a feeling that remembering God's salvation in all those events and more was in the heart of the psalmist. That’s enough to make anyone break into joyful song!
(I have to insert an interesting tidbit I learned while preparing to write this entry: Did you know that the hymn “Joy to the World” is based on this psalm? )
But that’s not all! Even nature itself (the sea, rivers, mountains – the whole world) is personified as singing in praise of God’s redemption. Verses 7 – 9 brought Romans 8: 18-25 into my mind.
“For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. For the earnest expectation of the creation eagerly waits for the revealing of the sons of God. For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of Him who subjected it in hope; because the creation itself also will be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. For we know that the whole creation groans and labors with birth pangs together until now. Not only that, but we also who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, eagerly waiting for the adoption, the redemption of our body. For we were saved in this hope, but hope that is seen is not hope; for why does one sitill hope for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we eagerly wait for it with perseverance.”
So all of creation praises God for His salvation. God is Rescuer and Ruler, not only of people, but of all nature!
Remember how the Israelites cried for a king? They wanted to be like all the nations around them. But from the very beginning God made it clear that He is King. And what a ruler He is!
Psalm 98 begins, “Oh sing to the Lord a new song!” This “new song” seems to be centered on God’s salvation and redemption rather than on God’s creation. The psalmist praises God in the present for what He has done in the past and continues to do, and for what He will do in the future. Just looking back at what we’ve read in BBC, think of all the times we’ve read of how God visibly saved (or rescued) His people: Noah, Abraham, Jacob, Joseph, the Hebrew people in Egypt, crossing the Red Sea, fighting Jericho, leaving Babylon to rebuild Jerusalem’s wall and the temple. That’s just a partial list. I have a feeling that remembering God's salvation in all those events and more was in the heart of the psalmist. That’s enough to make anyone break into joyful song!
(I have to insert an interesting tidbit I learned while preparing to write this entry: Did you know that the hymn “Joy to the World” is based on this psalm? )
But that’s not all! Even nature itself (the sea, rivers, mountains – the whole world) is personified as singing in praise of God’s redemption. Verses 7 – 9 brought Romans 8: 18-25 into my mind.
“For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. For the earnest expectation of the creation eagerly waits for the revealing of the sons of God. For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of Him who subjected it in hope; because the creation itself also will be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. For we know that the whole creation groans and labors with birth pangs together until now. Not only that, but we also who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, eagerly waiting for the adoption, the redemption of our body. For we were saved in this hope, but hope that is seen is not hope; for why does one sitill hope for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we eagerly wait for it with perseverance.”
So all of creation praises God for His salvation. God is Rescuer and Ruler, not only of people, but of all nature!
Look at the last two verses of Psalm 98!
… He is coming to judge the earth.
With righteousness, He shall judge the world,
And the peoples with equity.
This psalm praises God not only for what He has done, but for what He will do. We have seen more than the poet who wrote this psalm did, because we’ve seen God’s salvation and mercy and righteousness revealed in Jesus. When we think of the victory God has gained (v 1) and how “the LORD has made known His salvation and righteousness in the sight of the nations,” (v 2) we think of God coming in the flesh in the person of Jesus – who lived and died and rose again for ALL NATIONS – for all of us. But there’s still a future hope: God will come yet again to judge in righteousness and justice and uprightness.
Which leads us into Psalm 99….
One of these days I’m going to write the entry for the second psalm first! I get so caught up in the first psalm of the pair when I have two to write, that I give the next one short shrift.
Psalm 99 focuses again on God as King. This time His holiness is emphasized.
It seems to me that we neglect focusing on God’s attribute of holiness these days. Well, this psalm doesn’t!
Three times the refrain of God’s holiness is repeated! He is holy (v 3); He is holy (v 5); … the LORD our God is holy (v 9). God’s holiness is spoken of not in abstract, but as something active.
It’s worth noting that again the poet recounts God’s actions in the past: Moses, Aaron, Samuel all called upon the Lord, and God answered them. (v 6) How did He answer them? What was their response to His answer? I hope you’ll take the time to ponder this.
I love how over and over again in Scripture God reveals Himself in paradox. Look at verse 8:
You answered them, O LORD our God;
You were to them God-Who-Forgives,
Though You took vengeance on their deeds.
APPLICATION
What does this psalm have to say about how God’s holiness is demonstrated? What warning can we take from the very real truth of God’s holiness? What comfort can we take from it?
Do you share the psalmist’s passion to see God publicly exalted in holiness? Do you know what it means to call on Him and to find that He answers (verses 6-8)? What is your response when He does?
And for Psalm 98: Are you singing to the Lord a new song today: a song to God for His salvation, revealed over and over again and ultimately revealed in the Lord Jesus? Spend some time thinking about how God’s salvation (rescue) has been revealed in the past. Meditate on the passage I quoted from Romans. Then sing that new song of praise!
PRAYER
Great and marvelous are Your works,
Lord God Almighty!
Just and true are Your ways,
O King of the saints!
Who shall not fear You, O Lord, and glorify Your name?
For You alone are holy.
For all nations shall come and worship before You,
For Your judgments have been manifested.
~ Revelation 15: 3-4 ~
Friday, May 22, 2009
Hosea 6:11b-7:16: Rebellion in Israel
LINK: Hosea 7
BACKGROUND
Metaphors for Israel continue to abound as the nation is referred to as a dying man, flaming fire, unturned bread, senseless dove, and faulty bow. They are guilty but they do not "cry out" to God "from their hearts" (v. 14) or "turn to the Most High" (v. 16) even though he "longs to redeem them" (v. 13)
APPLICATION
If you are caught in some sin, cry out to God from your heart and turn to Him. He really does long to redeem you!
PRAYER
Lord, we worship You as our gracious Redeemer. Thank You that You have loved us with an everlasting love and drawn us with lovingkindness. We praise You for Your compassion and ask that You would draw us to You in true repentance. We ask that You would cause our hearts to cry out to and turn to You alone. Amen.
BACKGROUND
Metaphors for Israel continue to abound as the nation is referred to as a dying man, flaming fire, unturned bread, senseless dove, and faulty bow. They are guilty but they do not "cry out" to God "from their hearts" (v. 14) or "turn to the Most High" (v. 16) even though he "longs to redeem them" (v. 13)
APPLICATION
If you are caught in some sin, cry out to God from your heart and turn to Him. He really does long to redeem you!
PRAYER
Lord, we worship You as our gracious Redeemer. Thank You that You have loved us with an everlasting love and drawn us with lovingkindness. We praise You for Your compassion and ask that You would draw us to You in true repentance. We ask that You would cause our hearts to cry out to and turn to You alone. Amen.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)