Matthew 8: Part I - The Man With Leprosy (NIV)

Summary:

The Man With Leprosy

Verses 1-4

When Jesus came down from the mountain, after He was done teaching, a large crowd followed Him.  A man with leprosy knelt before Him and said, " 'Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean.' "  (Verse 2b)  Jesus reached out and touched the man.  He said that He was willing and told the man to be clean.  The man was immediately cleansed.  Jesus told the man not to tell anyone, but to present himself to the priest with the offering Moses had commanded, as a testimony to them.

Lori's Thoughts:

People naturally desire to experience God.  They may not know what it is and they may go to many substitutes.  But, people will never be satisfied until they connect with their Creator.

My brother has a gift for attracting people of all ages, ethnicities, and genders.  I believe this is so because he makes them feel valued.  They are worth listening to, laughing with, and having them as a friend.  Not too many human make us feel this way.

I believe what Dany makes others feel is similar to how Jesus made others feel.  For example, here was a diseased man.  An outcast.  I imagine most people preferred to avoid touching him for fear of contamination or because they were grossed out.  Imagine how unloved and unwanted this man must have felt.  Yet, he believed that Jesus could cure him if He wanted to.  The man knew he could do nothing to help his condition, so he sought out the Redeemer.

Jesus could have healed the man with a word.  I mean, He created the world with a word and could certainly fix it in the same manner.  But, here's a glimpse of the compassion He had.  Jesus touched the man with the repulsive skin.  I believe this restored the man's spirit.  He was worth touching.  Then, Jesus said He was willing to cure the man and, immediately, he was healed.

This is symbolic of salvation.  We cannot purify our sinful nature.  Not even by making a thousand animal sacrifices.  We must come with hope, that if God wills it, He can make us clean.  And He does.  He wants us to be saved from this weary land of disease and segregation and loneliness.  He knows what we desire and what we need.  He fulfills our desires and gives us what we need according to His will.  And it is instantaneous.  He doesn't tell us: do these things and you'll be saved.  He tells us: you asked, I will it, you're saved.

Notice, though, that He sent the man to offer a sacrifice afterwards as a testimony to them.  I believe they are the ones, like the Pharisees, who believed that they were saved by their relation to Abraham and by their offerings.  Jesus wanted to show them that this man was healed by His connection to the Lord, not by his offering to God.

Salvation must come before works.    However, faith without works is dead.  (See James 2:14-17)  Works without faith leads to death.  (See Ephesians 2:8-10)  We must have both to keep us from falling into sin, until God's work in us is complete, when He returns.  (See I Corinthians 1:8)

II Chronicles 19 - Ahab Killed at Ramoth Gilead Cont'd... (NIV)

Summary:

Ahab Killed at Ramoth Gilead
Verses 1-3

Jehoshaphat king of Judah returned safely to his palace in Jerusalem.  Jehu the seer, son of Hanani, went to him with this message: should he help the wicked and love those that hate the Lord?  God's wrath was upon Jehoshaphat.  But, God knew there was still good in him for destroying the Asherah poles and that his heart was set on seeking God.

Jehoshaphat Appoints Judges
Verses 4-11

Jehoshaphat traveled from Beersheba and the hill country of Ephraim.  He turned the people back to God.  He appointed judges in each fortified city of Judah.  Jehoshaphat told the judges to carefully consider their actions, because they were judging for the Lord, who would be with them during every verdict.  He told them to fear God, who has no injustice, partiality, or bribery.

In Jerusalem, Jehoshaphat appointed Levites, priests, and heads of the Israelite families to administer the law and settle disputes.  All these leaders lived in Jerusalem.  The king told them to serve faithfully and wholeheartedly in their fear of God.  He told them to warn everyone not to sin against God, or they would incur His wrath upon themselves and their brothers.

Jehoshaphat appointed Amariah the chief priest to be the head of all matters regarding the Lord.  He appointed Zebadiah son of Ishmael, the leader of Judah, to be the head of all matters regarding the king.  The Levites would be their officials.  He told them, "act with courage and may the Lord be with those who do well."  (Verse 11b)

Lori's Thoughts:

Jehoshaphat paid for his foolish behavior with King Ahab at the battle against the Arameans.  Although God was against Ahab, Jehoshaphat went to battle with him.  God spared Jehoshaphat's life in the battlefield and had mercy on him when he came home.  God knew Jehoshaphat's heart and that it was His, so He replaced His wrath with love. 

Isn't that comforting to know?  That God looks for the good in us to redeem us.  He is out to save us, not condemn us!  But, He will work with us to remove all evil from our lives.

So, Jehoshaphat cleaned up his act and vamped up the teachings of God's law throughout Judah.  Isn't it wonderful how justice with God is not corruptible as it is with man?  Who would you rather have judge you?  Merciful God or an erring human?  Justice is in His hands and we need not worry about it.  Obey the Lord and avoid His wrath.  He is with you wherever you go.  And if He is for us, then who can be against us?

Matthew 7 - Judging Others (NIV)

Summary:

Judging Others
Verses 1-6

Don't judge or you will be judged by the same measure that you used.

" 'Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?  How can you say to your brother, "Let me take the speck out of your eye," when all the time there is a plank in your own eye?  You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye.' "  (Verses 3-5)

Do not give what is sacred to dogs or give your pearls to pigs.  Otherwise, they will trample your treasures and tear you to pieces.

Ask, Seek, Knock
Verses 7-12

" 'Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.  For everyone who ask receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.' "  (Verses 7-8)

Who will give a stone to a child that asks for bread?  Or give a snake to a child that asks for a fish?

" 'If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask Him!' "  (Verse 11)

In everything, do to others as you would have them do to you.  This sums up the Law and the Prophets.

The Narrow and Wide Gates
Verses 13-14

Enter through the narrow gate.  The road that leads to destruction is broad and has a wide gate.  Many enter through it.  The road that leads to life is narrow and has a small gate.  Only a few find it.

A Tree and Its Fruit
Verses 15-23

Watch out for false prophets.  They are ferocious wolves in sheep's clothing.  You will recognize them by their fruit.  Only good trees bear good fruit, and only bad trees bear bad fruit.  Bad trees must be cut down and thrown into the fire.

" 'Not everyone who says to me, "Lord, Lord", will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.  Many will say to me on that day, "Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons, and perform many miracles?"  Then I will tell them plainly, "I never knew you.  Away from me, you evildoers!" ' "  (Verses 21-23)

The Wise and Foolish Builders
Verses 24-29

Those that hear Christ's words and practices them is like a wise man that built his house on a rock.  The rain and winds beat down on it, but it didn't fall, because it had the rock as its foundation.  Those that hear and don't practice are like a foolish man who built his house on the sand.  The rain and winds beat down on it and it fell with a great crash.

When Jesus finished speaking, the crowds were amazed, because He taught as One with authority and not as their teachers of the law.

Lori's Thoughts:

To me, judging is sizing someone up and determining how you interact with them, based on various standards.  I have been mistreated for my lower middle class status, for being Hispanic, and for being pretty.  I also have a tendency to judge based on race and appearance.  I am leery of Hispanic men and I feel uncomfortable around people that are overweight.  I believe that the standards by which we judge others stem from our own insecurities.  This is why Jesus tells us to clean up our own act before we judge or shun anyone else.

If we are connected to God, we are connected to love.  We will see people through His eyes - as Children of God.  Some are lost, some are found.  But, we have no right to treat anyone other than how Christ would treat them.  And He was seen with people who had diseases, handicaps, and bad reputations.  But, He didn't come to leave us this way.  He came to help us live better, to rise above our faults.  And who could be more fitting to point out our faults than He who is and was blameless?  He did so out of and through love.  We must be the same way.

. . .

Those who ask, seek, or knock do so with hope.  Maybe not faith, at first, because they have been let down by others before.  These others are human.  Jesus said that those that ask, seek, and knock will be answered, will find, and will be opened up to.  Those without hope or faith won't even try.  (Remember, we have each been given a measure of faith - see Romans 12:3)  But, Jesus says that those that try will not be disappointed!  Not if you shift your focus to God.  And, once you see that He does respond to your requests, your faith will begin to grow.  And the next you go through something challenging, you'll know that He is with you as He was in the past.

If God gives gifts to His children, we should do the same.  We are to love others as we want to be loved and as God loves us.

. . .

Treasures on earth are tangible and instantly gratifying.  But, they are only superficially so.

It is hard to give up niceties, attention, glamour, and riches.  It's hard to choose the seemingly lonely, quiet, and challenging road.  But, this road leads to fulfillment in a more deep sense than anyone could ever find on the self-serving road.

Isn't it ironic how the pople on the more-traveled road are the most isolated.  They can't trust each other.  There are thieves, liars, back-stabbers...all to get to the top of the economic ladder.

Those who choose to endure this life for treasures in heaven have security in God.  Even though we will suffer, we know that this earth is not our final destination.  We know that we have hope and a future.  We know that God will wipe away every tear from our eyes.  And while we wait, we will enjoy the fruits of the Spirit - peace, joy, love...

Speaking of fruit, those that exude peace, joy, love, etc. belong to God.  Their hearts are homes to the Holy Spirit.

Just because someone performs miracles or prophesies or exorcises does not mean they are of God.  The devil can provide these powers.  Test the spirits!  (I John 4:1-6)

We must not move without first seeking God's direction.  He may tell us to stay. 

Those that do His will will enter heaven.  I need to work on this.  I'm so eager to do works that I forget to ask for His permission.  And, I don't want to be separated from Him.  I trust God's wisdom and view of it all.  I can only see a speck of His plan.  And I surrender to His perfect will and trust that He wants me to prosper.

. . .

So, we must study God's word and act on it.  Don't just read your Bible or listen to a sermon and say, "That's nice.  I believe it."  Ask God how you can live it!

Christ is the solid rock foundation.  Those that stand in Him will not be shaken so much that they will be knocked down and trampled.

"Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand."  (Ephesians 6:13)

Natalie Grant's "I Will Not Be Moved"

II Chronicles 18 - Micaiah Prophesies Against Ahab (NIV)

Summary:

Micaiah Prophesies Against Ahab
Verses 1-27

Jehoshaphat, king of Judah, had great wealth and honor.  He also had an alliance with Ahab, king of Israel, via marriage (probably to Ahab's daughter).  Years later, Jehoshaphat went to visit Ahab.  Ahab slaughtered many sheep and cattle.  His people urged him to attack Ramoth Gilead, so Ahab asked Jehoshaphat to join him.  (From now on, we'll refer to him as 'Jeh'.)  Jeh responded that he would, but first to seek God's counsel.

Ahab summoned 400 prophets and asked them if he should go to war with Ramoth Gilead.  They all answered yes, that he would be victorious.  Jeh asked if there was a prophet of the Lord that they could talk to.  Ahab told him of Micaiah son of Imlah, but that he didn't like Micaiah, because Micaiah always prophesied bad things for Ahab.  Jeh told Ahab not to say such things, so Ahab sent his officials to summon Micaiah.

Jeh and Ahab, in their royal robes, sat on their thrones at the threshing floor by the entrance to the gate of Samaria.  The prophets were still prophesying.  Zedekiah son of Kenaanah had made iron horns.  He said that God had told him that Ahab would use them to gore the Arameans.  Meanwhile, the messenger to Micaiah told him to agree with the other prophets.  Micaiah swore to say only what God told him to say.

Ahab asked Micaiah if he should war with Ramoth Gilead.  Micaiah responded by saying what the messenger had told him.  Ahab demanded the truth.  Micaiah said that he saw Israel scattered, like a sheep without a shepherd.  God said that they had no master and to have them all go home in peace.  Ahab repeated to Jeh that Micaiah never said anything good about him.  Micaiah continued.  He said that God's word was this - the Lord was on His throne in heaven, with the host of heaven on each side.  God asked who would entice Ahab to attack Ramoth Gilead and go to his death.  After several suggestions, a spirit volunteered to be a lying spirit in the mouths of Ahab's prophets.  God agreed, so Micaiah said there would be disaster for Ahab.

Zedekiah son of Kenaanah, one of the 400 prophets, slapped Micaiah in the face.  He asked Micaiah which way the spirit from God had gone from him to Micaiah.  Micaiah responded that Zedekiah would find out when he would hide in an inner room.

Ahab ordered Micaiah imprisoned, with only bread and water, until he returned safely.  Micaiah said that if Ahab did return safely, then God hadn't spoken through him.  Micaiah told everyone to mark his words.

Ahab Killed at Ramoth Gilead
Verses 28-34

Jehoshaphat and Ahab went up to Ramoth Gilead.  Ahab told Jeh that he'd be disguised, but Jeh should wear his royal robes.

The King of Aram told his chariot commanders to fight no one but the king of Israel.  They saw Jeh and thought it was him, so they went to attack him.  Jeh cried out; God helped him and drew the Arameans away.  When they saw that Jeh wasn't the Israelite king, they left him.

Someone randomly shot his bow and hit Ahab between his armor.  Ahab told his chariot driver to retreat.  The battle raged all day and Ahab watched from his chariot until evening.  At sunset, he died.

Lori's Thoughts:

I have mixed feelings about Jehoshaphat.  It seems like he was a good king, because he made peace with Israel.  Who knows?  Maybe some Israelites came back to their faith because of him.  Also, he encouraged King Ahab to seek God's counsel before making an important battle decision.

However, I question his wisdom.  If God was against Ahab, why did he fight alongside him?  God didn't tell him not to, but I would have discouraged Ahab from fighting and encouraged him to get right with God.  It seems that God wanted Israel to be at peace, but because Ahab mocked His prophet, Micaiah, Ahab lost that chance. 

Despite Jehoshaphat's foolishness, however, God protected him.  Jeh was still God's child.  Isn't that good to know?  Even when we put ourselves into dangerous situations, out of our foolishness, God still comes when we call out to him!  That fills me with hope.  :)

One thing that amazed me was the patience of Micaiah.  If someone slapped me in the face, they'd end up on the floor.  Through the power of God, Micaiah restrained his human nature.  He knew justice would be served to Zedekiah.  Remember, vengeance is the Lord's.  (See Deuteronomy 32:35)  If it was up to us, we'd easily fall into sin and away from God.  Let go.  Trust Him.

Lastly, I want to bring up testing the spirits again.  Read I John 4:1-6 to see how.  II Chronicles 18 shows us why it is important to do so.  Satan has legal ground to attack you if you live in sin.  Ahab did not serve the Lord, so God allowed a lying spirit to deceive him and his prophets.  So, when someone prophesies or performs a miracle, don't get sucked in by the novelty of it all.  Find out who they serve before you accept their word or their influence on your life.  Ask God to reveal to you if they are His.  He'll guide you.

Matthew 6 - Giving to the Needy (NIV)

Summary:

1. Giving to the Needy
Verses 1-4

Don't:  Display your acts of righteousness before men, because this will not get you a reward from God.  Do not announce your gift with trumpets in the synagogues and streets.  Those that do have received their reward in full.

Do:  Give in secret, so your left hand won't know what your right hand is doing.  God, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.

2. Prayer
Verses 5-15

Don't:  Pray standing in the synagogues and street corners.  Those that do have received their reward in full.  Don't babble like the pagans who think they'll be heard by their many words.

Do:  Go to your room and close the door to pray to your Father, who is unseen.  He will reward you for what is done in secret.

" '...for your Father knows what you need before you ask Him.
'This, then, is how you should pray:
'Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name,
your kingdom come, your will be done
on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us today our daily bread.
Forgive us our debts as we also have forgiven our debtors.
And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.
(For yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever.  Amen.)' "  (Verses 8-13)

If you forgive those that sin against you, then God will forgive you.  If you don't forgive, God won't forgive you.

3. Fasting
Verses 16-18

Don't:  Look somber like the hypocrites that gain attention for fasting.  They have received their reward in full.

Do:  Put oil on your head and wash your face.  Fast in secret, because God sees and He will reward.

4. Treasures in Heaven
Verses 19-24

Don't:  Store your treasures on earth, where they are destroyed by moths and rust and are stolen by thieves.

Do:  Store your treasures in heaven, where they are unaffected by earthly woes.  Where your treasure is, there your heart also is.

The eyes are the lamps of the body.  If the eyes are full of light, they light up the whole body.  If the eyes are bad, then the body is full of darkness.

No one can serve two masters.  They will love and be devoted to only one.  No one can serve both God and Money.

5. Do Not Worry
Verses 25-34

Don't worry about your life, food, drink, your body, or clothes.  Life is greater than food and your body is greater than clothes.  The birds of the air don't sow or reap or store, yet God feeds them.  And we are more valuable than birds.  Who can add a single hour to their life by worrying?

Don't worry about clothes.  The lilies of the field grow.  They don't labor or spin, yet they are dressed more greatly than Solomon in all of his splendor.  If God clothes the grass with these lilies, and grass is thrown into the fire the next day, how much more will He clothe you who are greater than grass.  "...O, you of little faith..."  (Verse 30b)

Don't worry about what you will eat, drink, or wear, because pagans run after these things.  "...your heavenly Father knows that you need them."  (Verse 32b)

"But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.  Therefore, do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself.  Each day has enough trouble of its own."  (Verse 33-34)

Lori's Thoughts:

1. A Christian will give from the heart when they see someone in need.  When you are sick or hurt or struggling, I'm sure you wouldn't want it advertised.  You'd want people you trust to pray for you, help you carry your burden, and maintain your dignity.  A Christian puts themselves in a hurting person's shoes and thinks on this before they act.

2. The more personal and heartfelt conversations you have with a friend, the more private it tends to be.  The same goes with God.  Talk to Him as a friend.  God wants us to be humble, not pious.

How to pray:
- Praise God.
- Acknowledge His coming and His will first.
- Trust that He will daily provide.
- Forgiveness helps you let go of what could become a grudge and lead to hate, which leads to hell.
- Forgive others, then accept God's forgiveness.
- Ask God to help you be pure.

3. When you give up something for God, don't brag about it.  If you're seeking attention and approval from humans, your motives are selfish and no different than that of a pagan.  Fix your eyes on Jesus.  Live to please Him.  Let God shed light on your actions if He so desires.

4. Those that serve money are instantly and ephemerally satisfied.  Their treasures fade, economies collapse, retirements disappear, and their light is snuffed out.  There is only darkness within them.

Those that serve the Lord have all they need to survive on this earth.  Our treasure is in heaven and it is eternal.  Our faith in God's promise gives us light.

We cannot serve both without hating one.

5. Worrying is the opposite of faith.  If God deeply cares for the plants and animals that He created, don't you think He'll take care of you?  He knows what you need.  Stop trying to take care of it yourself.  If He wants you to move, He'll tell you.  Seek Him first.  How?  Daily prayer and Bible study.  Devote an hour a day.  On average, we work 8 times as much, sleep 8 times as much, eat 3 times as much...  You can spare an hour for your heavenly Father.  That hour in the morning will set the tone for the day.  Tell God what you have going on.  You will experience peace and joy, regardless of your circumstances, because you have faith.  Worry diminishes your quality of life.  Faith helps you enjoy the little things and make it through the big things.

Try it!  :)

II Chronicles 17 - Jehoshaphat King of Judah (NIV)

Summary:

Jehoshaphat King of Judah
Verses 1-19

The son of Asa became king and strengthened himself against Israel.  He stationed troops in and fortified the cities of Judah.  He placed garrisons (military posts) in Judah and in the towns of Ephraim that Asa had captured.  God was with Jehoshaphat because, in his early years, he walked in the ways of David.  He sought counsel with God, not Baal.  He followed God's commands and not the Israelite ways.  God established his kingdom, giving him wealth and honor, for his heart was devoted to the ways of the Lord.  He removed the high places and Asherah poles from Judah.

In the 3rd year of his reign, Jehoshaphat sent the following people to teach in the towns of Judah -
- Officials: Ben-Hail, Obadiah, Zechariah, Nethanel, & Micaiah
- Levites:  Shemaiah, Nethaniah, Zebediah, Asahel, Shemiramoth, Jehonathan, Adonijah, Tobijah, & Tob-Adonijah
- Priests:  Elishama & Jehoram

They were sent to teach from the Book of the Law of the Lord.

The fear of God fell on all kingdoms surrounding Judah.  They kept the peace.  Some Philistines brought gifts and silver as tribute to Judah.  The Arabs brought them 7,700 rams and 7,700 goats.

Jehoshaphat grew in power.  He built forts and store cities.  Large supplies were kept in Judah.  He kept experienced fighting men in Jerusalem. 
These are the commanders of units of thousands:
- From Judah: Adnah with 300,000 fighting men
                       Jehohanan with 280,000
                       Amasiah son of Zicri, who volunteered to serve the Lord, with 200,000
- From Benjamin: Eliada, a valiant soldier, with 200,000 men with bows and shields
                             Jehozabad with 180,000 men armed for battle
- Others stationed in the fortified cities throughout Judah

Lori's Thoughts:

Although Asa became stubborn against God in his later years, he trained his son well in the ways of righteousness.  One of my most frequent prayers is that I will not lead anyone away from God.  Everyone should seek a personal relationship with Him, but not everyone knows this.  Those of us that do have a responsibility to represent God well by what they say, do, and believe.

It's sad that most of Israel fell from faith because of one man, Jeroboam son of Nebat.  However, a remnant remained in their faith to instruct future generations.  This is exactly what Jehoshaphat did by sending teachers to teach the people the Law of God.  They had no printing press, so copies of the Law were probably hard to come by.  Although they were just a portion of the Israelite tribe, they still had thousands of people.  So, traveling teachers certainly helped the individuals in their faith walk.

And God prospered them.  Even the Philistines feared and paid tribute to Israel!  The Philistines hate Israel.  Not only did their enemies revere them, Judah gained riches, flocks, and grew in strength. 

God is good.  He wants us to be strong and prosperous.  First, we must trust Him with everything.  Then, anything we receive is a gift from Him.

Matthew 5 - The Fulfillment of the Law: Part III (NIV)

Summary:

The Fulfillment of the Law
Verses 17-20

Christ came to fulfill the Law and the Prophets, not abolish them.  The Law stands until everything is accomplished and heaven and earth disappear.  Anyone who breaks even the least of the commandments and leads others to do so will be called least in the kingdom of heaven.  Those that follow the Law and teach it will be called great.  Your righteousness must surpass those of the Pharisees and teachers of the law to enter heaven.

1. Murder
Verses 21-26

Old Saying:  Do not murder or you will be subject to judgment.  Anyone that says, 'Raca' (a term of contempt), to their brother is subject to the Sanhedrin (the supreme court).

Christ's Saying:  Anyone angry with his brother will be subject to judgment.  Anyone that says, 'You fool!', will be in danger of the fire of hell.
If you're about to make an offering and remember that your brother has something against you, leave the gift, be reconciled with your brother, then make your offering.  Settle all matters quickly with others, before they take you to court.  Otherwise, you will be handed over to the judge, then to an officer, and then thrown into prison.  You will not get out until you have paid the last penny.

2. Adultery
Verses 27-30

Old Saying:  Do not commit adultery.

Christ's Saying:  Anyone that looks lustfully at a woman has committed adultery in their heart.  If any part of your body causes you to sin, cut it off, so your whole body won't be thrown into hell.

3. Divorce
Verses 31-32

Old Saying:  Give your wife a certificate of divorce.

Christ's Saying:  Divorce for anything other than marital unfaithfulness makes the divorcee an adulteress.  Anyone that marries her then commits adultery.

4. Oaths
Verses 33-37

Old Saying:  Keep the oaths you've made to the Lord.

Christ's Saying:  Don't swear at all - not by heaven, because it is God's throne; not by earth, because it is God's footstool; not by Jerusalem, because it is the city of the Great King; and not by your own head, because you can't even affect your hair color.  Let your yes be yes and your no be no.  Anything else comes from the evil one.

5. An Eye for an Eye
Verses 38-42

Old Saying:  An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth.

Christ's Saying:  Do not resist an evil person.  Turn the other cheek if he hits you.  Give your cloak as well if he takes your tunic.  Go another mile if he forces you to go one mile.  Give to those who ask; don't turn away those that wish to borrow.

6. Love for Enemies
Verses 43-48

Old Saying:  Love your neighbor; hate your enemy.

Christ's Saying:  Love your enemies.  Pray for those who persecute you, so you may be sons of your heavenly Father.  He gives sunshine and rain to the good and the evil.
If you only love those that love you, what reward will you receive?  Even tax collectors do this.  If you greet only your brothers, what more are you doing than others?  Even pagans do this.

"Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect."  (Verse 48)

Lori's Thoughts:

Jesus said that our righteousness must be greater than that of the Pharisees and teachers of the law.  These people followed the Israelite rituals to a tee.  But, there was no connection to God.  They put their trust in humans, believing that they were saved by what they did.

Jesus came to revolutionize our way of thinking.  No human can be saved of their own accord.  God is the only One who saves, through Jesus' ultimate sacrifice.  When we accept that, then the Holy Spirit comes to guide us through our works.  We are more righteous than the Pharisees and the lawmakers, because God is in our equation, and we stand right with Him.

Here is what the law looked like once Jesus added a relationship with Him to it:

1. Do not murder -> Also, do not hate or reject people.  Murder through negligence is still murder.  Christ taught us to love everyone.  We may not like everyone, but if we are His and they are hurting, we will be moved to do something about it!

2. Do not commit adultery -> Lusting in your heart is still adultery.  Marriage is meant to be sacred.  Adam and Eve together were the image of God.  If God is perfect, then the union of a husband and wife should resemble perfection.  Look at any form of media and you'll see how the devil works diligently to destroy this symbol of God.  With the Holy Spirit, we can be faithful in our hearts and minds.

3. If you get divorced, make it official with a certificate -> The only legitimate reason for a divorce is if your spouse commits adultery.  Any other reason sets up the divorcee to commit adultery in their next relationship.  Did I mention that marriage is meant to be sacred?

4. If you make a vow in God's name, keep it -> Don't make vows at all.  Tell the truth always.  People will know you as honest, so you won't have to swear at all.  Once again, let the Holy Spirit guide you.

5. Get even -> Put out fires by being generous.  Give more than what is demanded.  Don't you think that the person with the grudge against you will be humbled and avoid further arguments if you are gracious to them?  Think about it!  God wants us to use our hearts and heads!

6. Love your friends and hate your enemies -> Love everyone!  Can you imagine how many suicides, homicides, Columbines, Virginia Techs, etc. could be prevented if everyone practices this?!  The world would be a bit less broken than it is now.  It starts with you.

"Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect." 

This isn't that different than what humans do naturally.  We want that promotion, that graduate program, that MVP or captain spot.  We want to be the Olympic gold medalist or president of the United States.  We strive for excellence and perfection.  But, we will lose unless God is first!

Matthew 5 - The Beatitudes: Part II (NIV)

Summary:

The Beatitudes
Verses 7-12

    Blessed                                                  Reward
5. Merciful                                                   Will be shown mercy
6. Pure in heart                                           Will see God
7. Peacemakers                                         Will be called sons of God
8. Persecuted because of righteousness  Theirs is the kingdom of heaven

Blessed are you when people insult, persecute, and speak falsely against you because of Jesus Christ.  Rejoice, because your reward in heaven is great as the world treated the prophets similarly.

Salt and Light
Verses 13-16

"You are the salt of the earth."  (Verse 13a)  If salt loses its saltiness, how can it become salty again?  It then becomes good only for being thrown out and trampled by men.

"You are the light of the world."  (Verse 14a)  You can't hide a city on a hill.  You don't put a lamp under a bowl, but on a stand, so that it lights up the whole house.

"In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven."  (Verse 16)

Lori's Thoughts:

The Beatitudes

5.  Those that show mercy will receive mercy.  "Do to others as you would have them do to you."  (Luke 6:31)  Another way of looking at this is:  what you do to others will be done to you.  Some call it kharma.  God calls it justice.  If the love of God is in your heart, your actions, your words, and your attitude will reflect it.

6.  The pure in heart will see God.  We are being refined by fire, that is by trials and tribulations.

"In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials.  These have come so that your faith - of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire - may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory, and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed."  (I Peter 1:6-7)

Sanctification, which comes after justification once you accept salvation, is the removal of all evil and earthly desires.  Like gold ore that is beat of all impurities until it is perfect gold, so are we being molded.  When people ask why bad things happen or why life is hard, you know that it is either because the devil wants to shake your faith in the One he hates or because God is molding you.  Without suffering, we would not lean on God.

Paul is the best example of a sanctified man.  He began as a murderer of Christians.  Then, he was known as Saul.  When he accepted Christ, he was transformed into Paul, one of the greatest apostles of Christ.  He went from persecuting to healing.  (See Acts 28:7-10)

Even he suffered.  "To keep me from becoming conceited because of these surpassingly great revelations, there was given me a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me.  Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me.  But He said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.'  Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me.  That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in my weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties.  For when I am weak, then I am strong."  (II Corinthians 12:7-10)

Wow.  Currently, I just weep because of my weaknesses.  I hope to get to the point where I, too, can delight in weakness, because I depend on Christ that much more.

7.  The peacemakers will be called the sons of God.  I imagine that this must be the most difficult position to have.  To create peace, there probably is a lack of peace, and a peacemaker will have to throw themselves into the line of fire.  This might cost them their lives.  If it means salvation for others, so be it.

" 'I looked for a man among them who would build up the wall and stand before me in the gap on behalf of the land so I would not have to destroy it, but I found none.  So I will pour out my wrath on them and consume them with my fiery anger, bringing down on their own heads all they have done, declares the Sovereign Lord.' "  (Ezekiel 22:31)

We must be willing to stand in the gap to bring peace between humans and God.  This is the opposite of jihad in the Muslim religion.  They lay down their lives to destroy what they believe is evil.  I think that our freedom of religion angers them.  Maybe it is American lifestyle - our sensuality and greed.  However, I do not believe God tells us to kill others.  We must be willing to die so that others might be saved, just as Jesus did!

Salvation only comes through the blood of Christ.  We must be willing to lay down our lives to bring others to Him.  Whether or not we do die is up to our heavenly Father.  Give Him the reins of your life.  Believe me, it's the scariest thing you will ever do.  But, it must be done if we are to be used by Him.

However, "rejoice that your names are written in heaven."  (Luke 10:20b)

8.  Those that are persecuted because of righteousness will gain the kingdom of heaven.  People will be attracted to the Jesus in you.  Other people will hate you for it.  They may not even know why, as they are influenced by the evil one.  Christ guaranteed that we would suffer for serving Him.  Why?  This is not our home.

" 'If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first.  If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own.  As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world.  That is why the world hates you.  Remember the words I spoke to you: 'No servant is greater than his master.'  If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also.  If they obeyed my teaching, they will obey yours also.  They will treat you this way because of my name, for they do not know the One who sent me.  If I had not come and spoken to them, they would not be guilty of sin.  Now, however, they have no excuse for their sin.' "  (Luke 15:18-22)

Christ came to show the world the difference between sin and righteousness, that is being an enemy of God or a friend.  If we are friends of God, we will be enemies of the world.  They hate us because they know they sin, but refuse to give it up.

We must give up our lives on this earth.  If we are fully committed to God, then anything extra - marriage, family, career, possessions are gifts from Him.  If we seek these first, we love the world.  We must be willing to have nothing to gain right standing with God. 

" 'But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.  Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself.  Each day has enough trouble of its own.' "  (Matthew 6:33-34)

Revelation 21 tells us what we can hope for in the next heaven and earth, which exist without sin.  Then we can just live.

" 'If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.  For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will save it.  What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, and yet lose or forfeit his very self?  If anyone is ashamed of me and my words, the Son of Man will be ashamed of him when He comes in His glory and in the glory of the Father and of the holy angels.  I tell you the truth, some who are standing here will not taste death before they see the kingdom of God.' "  (Luke 9:23-27)

Salt and Light

We have hope, therefore we give the world flavor and illumination.

"Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him."  (Psalm 34:8)
"Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path."  (Psalm 119:105)

We get this flavor and illumination from God.  It is our job to light the fire in the lives of others.  God has given us the amazing gift of salvation.  Be bold.  Share it.  Ask Him how.

Let His light shine through you.

Matthew 5 - The Beatitudes: Part I (NIV)

*Please pray for the Holy Spirit's guidance in this.  We're delving in deep.*

Summary:

The Beatitudes (Supreme blessedness; exalted happiness - according to dictionary.com)
Verses 1-6

The crowds gathered by Jesus, so He went up and sat on the mountainside.  His disciples went up to Him and Jesus began to teach the people.

    Blessed                                                Reward
1. Poor in spirit                                        Kingdom of Heaven
2. Those who mourn                               Will be comforted
3. Meek                                                    Inherit the earth
4. Hungry & thirsty for righteousness     Will be filled

Lori's Thoughts:

1.  What does it mean to be poor in spirit?  It could refer to the downhearted, but why would you be rewarded for that?  What if it means those that rely on the Holy Spirit rather than on their own spirit to walk through this life?  Those that serve the devil learn to control their own spirits to perform "magic" or supernatural things.  We are not supposed to make this connection without God's specific instructions.  Otherwise, we will be exposed to the devil and his demons.

"Do not turn to mediums or seek out spiritists, for you will be defiled by them.  I am the Lord your God."  (Leviticus 19:31)

"...those who practice magic arts...their place will be in the fiery lake of burning sulfur."  (Revelation 21:8b)

"Are not all angels ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation?"  (Hebrews 1:14)

"...for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light.  It is not surprising, then, if his servants masquerade as servants of righteousness.  Their end will be what their actions deserve."  (II Corinthians 11:14-15)

So, you see, angels are spirits.  Satan was the angel Lucifer and deceived 1/3 of God's angels (see Isaiah 14:12-15).  A medium is a person that conveys spiritual messages.  A spiritist is a person that communicates with the spirits of the dead to communicate with the living.  See I Samuel 28 to see what King Saul experienced with the Witch of Endor.

If you are reading this and you are involved in the occult, to any degree:  as simply as reading your horoscope or as deeply as being a bride of Satan, you can be set free.  Ask God to bind all doorways you have opened to the devil and remove all unclean spirits from within you.  If you can't, but want to, get help from a trustworthy servant of God.  Ask God to lead one to you if you don't know or can't access one.  Then, you must submit to God and ask Him to fill you with the Holy Spirit, so that the demons cannot return.  Make God your Savior and Master.  All occultic practices must stop.  Your connection to the spirit world must cease.  Let God lead your actions.  You must be sincere in letting go of any practices against His will or the devil will have legal ground to attack you.  See Matthew 12:43-45.

Let Christ baptize you with fire and with the Holy Spirit.  This is the way to heaven.

2.  Those that mourn will be blessed with comfort.  Why do/will we mourn?

" 'If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.  For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will save it.  What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, and yet lose or forfeit his very self?  If anyone is ashamed of me and my words, the Son of Man will be ashamed of him when he comes in his glory and in the glory of the Father and of the holy angels.' "  (Luke 9:23-26)

" 'Then you will be handed over to be persecuted and put to death, and you will be hated by all nations because of me.' "  (Matthew 24:9)

Sounds contradictory, right?  If you want to save your life, you'll lose it.  That is, in pursuit of riches or fame or power, you will lose your soul.  Those that give their life in service to Christ, loving God and others above themselves, will gain eternal life in heaven.  The world will hate us because we tell them not to indulge in pleasure and self-service.  Some of us will be hurt emotionally or physically.  Some of us will be killed.  But, we have much to hope for.

"Brothers, we do not want you to be ignorant about those who fall asleep, or to grieve like the rest of men, who have no hope.  We believe that Jesus died and rose again and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in Him."  (I Thessalonians 4:13-14)

"He will wipe every tear from their eyes.  There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away."  (Revelation 21:4)  Read the rest of the chapter to see what else we will gain.

I'm just excited to be able to see the One that taught me Love, Peace, Joy, and Hope, despite my circumstances.

As Heather Williams put it:  "In spite of it all, Hallelujah!!!" 
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OX2uM0L3Y1A

3.  Those who are meek will inherit the earth.  Meek: humbly patient or docile, as under provocation from others (dictionary.com).  Example:  I was working on a computer in the common room of a lab I worked for, a few years ago.  The RA busted in, yelling at me about another student who took the lab van without authorization.  First of all, she scared me by slamming the door on the way in.  Second of all, she was misdirecting her anger towards me.

I calmly restated what she had told me, making sure she knew that I understood what was upsetting her.  She stopped yelling and the redness in her face subsided.  Then, I told her that I would speak with the individual in error.  The RA then quietly left the building.

This is meekeness.  When something frightening runs your way, draw serenity and wisdom from God.  Freaking out will only add fuel to the fire.  Staying calm will help you think straight.  You'll see that the problem may not be as big as you first thought.  It can be diffused by your meekness.  It is a peace that surpasses understanding.

Our reward is inheriting the earth.  Does Jesus mean this earth or the next earth?  I think He means the next one.

"Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away..."  (Revelation 21:1a)

4.  Those that hunger and thirst for righteousness will be filled.  The definition of righteousness that makes the most sense to me is this: right standing with God.  No one can achieve this of their own accord.  The blood of Christ covers us, if we have accepted Him.  Then, we may approach the Father.

"For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith - and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God - not by works, so that no one can boast.  For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."  (Ephesians 2:8-10)

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

We will be filled when we seek God and desire to be on His side.

" 'Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.  For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.' "  (Matthew 7:7-8)

May you be supremely blessed.

II Chronicles 16 - Asa's Last Years (NIV)

Summary:

Asa's Last Years
Verses 1-14

In Asa's 36th year as king, Baasha king of Israel warred against him.  Baasha fortified Ramah so no one could leave or enter Asa's territory.  Asa, then, used the silver and gold from the temple and palace to give to Ben-Hadad king of Aram, the ruler of Damascus.  Asa asked for a treaty with Ben-Hadad, as their fathers had had.  He asked Ben-Hadad to break his treaty with Baasha.  Ben-Hadad then turned against Israel and his forces conquered Ijon, Dan, Abel Maim, and the store cities of Naphtali.  When Baasha heard this, he abandoned his work at Ramah.  Asa and the men of Judah went to Ramah and took Baasha's stones and timber.  They used them to build up Geba and Mizpah. 

Hanani the seer gave Asa this message from God: since Asa had relied on Aram and not God, the king of Aram had escaped from Asa's hand.  God reminded him of the Cushites and Libyans, a mighty army with numerous chariots and charioteers.  When they had attacked Judah, Asa had relied on God and He had delivered them to Asa.

"For the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to Him."  (Verse 9a)

Asa had acted foolishly, so he would always be at war.  Asa was very angry at this, so he put the seer in prison and brutally oppressed some of his people.  His other events are written in the book of the kings of Judah and Israel.

In Asa's 39th years as king, he was afflicted with a disease in his feet.  It was severe, but he chose to rely on physicians rather than on God.  In his 41st year, he died and rested with his fathers.  He was buried in a tomb that he had prepared for himself in the City of David.  They laid a bier over it and covered it with spices and blended perfumes.  There was a huge fire built in his honor.

Lori's Thoughts:

In all things, ask God for guidance.  Asa acted strategically in battle.  But, his pride separated him from God.  This victory was his, not Theirs.  Since he decided to stop leaning on God, God could no longer protect him from war or disease.  If at any point Asa had humbled himself and rededicated himself to the Lord, he would have been healed and protected.

Sometimes, when God gives us victories, we feel on top of the world and believe it was by our own power that we got here, since we can't see God.  Sometimes we need to fall to be reminded who our Savior and Deliverer is.  I constantly pray for humility.  I have a tendency towards pride and I isolate myself, thinking I can do it all on my own.  2010 showed me how wrong I was.  I am nothing but wretched without Him.

It's interesting, though, how Asa was honored in death.  Did the people choose to focus on the good years of his reign?  Or was it because they were honoring God who had ordained Asa as the king of Judah?  I remember when David had the chance to kill Saul, but didn't because he was God's chosen king, even if he had turned evil.  I bet it would have ruined David's life if he had done it.

Sometimes, God tells us no.  Sometimes, we fall so we can realize that we've drifted and then we can choose to return to His arms.

Matthew 4 - The Temptation of Jesus (NIV)

Summary:

Jesus was led by the Holy Spirit into the desert to be tempted by the devil.  He fasted for 40 days and 40 nights, and he was hungry.  (Jesus felt everything we feel.  Maybe He fasted when He knew He'd be tempted, because He was preparing to totally lean on God through this trial.)  The tempter told Him that if He was the Son of God, to turn the stones into bread.  Jesus replied by quoting Deuteronomy 8:3 - " 'Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.' "

The devil took Him to the holy city, on the highest point of the temple.  The devil said that if He was the Son of God, to throw Himself down because in Psalm 91:11, 12, it says, " 'He will command His angels concerning you, and they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.' "  Jesus replied with Deuteronomy 6:16 - " 'Do not put the Lord your God to the test.' " 

The devil then took Him to a high mountain, showing Him all the world and its splendor.  The devil offered it to Jesus, if He would bow down and worship him.  Jesus replied by telling Satan to leave Him, and He quoted Deuteronomy 6:13 - " 'Worship the Lord your God, and serve Him only.' "  The devil left and the angels attended to Jesus.  (God will help you through a trial and after a trial, when you are weak.)  *see Luke 10:17-18.

Jesus Begins to Preach
Verses 12-17

John the Baptist had been imprisoned, so Jesus returned to Galilee.  He moved from Nazareth to Capernaum, near the lake in the area of Zebulun and Naphtali.  He fulfilled the prophecy in Isaiah 9:1,2 - "Land of Zebulun and land of Naphtaili, the way to the sea, along the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles - the people living in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned.' "  From then on, Jesus preached, " 'Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near.' "  (Verse 17b)

The Calling of the First Disciples
Verses 18-22

Jesus walked by the Sea of Galilee.  He saw two brothers, Simon (aka Peter) and Andrew.  They were casting nets into a lake, as they were fishermen.  Christ told them to follow Him and He would make them fishers of men.  Immediately, they left their nets and followed Him.

Jesus saw two other brothers, the sons of Zebedee, James and John.  They were in a boat with their father, preparing their nets.  Jesus called them and they immediately left their boat and father to follow Him.

Jesus Heals the Sick
Verses 23-25

Jesus traveled throughout Galilee.  He taught in the synagogues and preached the good news of the kingdom.  He healed every disease and sickness among the people.  The news of Him spread all over Syria.  People brought to Him those in severe pain, the demon-possessed, those with seizures, paralytics, etc.  Jesus healed them.  Large crowds from Galilee, the Decapolis, Jerusalem, Judea, and the region across the Jordan followed Him.

Lori's Thoughts:

The devil's lies -
1.  Christ is not the Son of God.  God did not become human.
2.  Satisfy your desires by your own powers
3.  Be reckless, because God has to rescue you.
4.  He rules the world and will give you splendor if you worship him.

Truth -
1.  "...Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made Himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness."  (Philippians 2:5b - 7)
2.  "...Every spirit that acknowledges that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God, but every spirit that does not acknowledge Jesus is not from God."  (I John 4:2b-3a)
3.  "And my God will meet all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus."  (Philippians 4:19)
4.  "Do not test the Lord your God as you did at Massah."  (Deuteronomy 6:16) *see Exodus 17:1-7
5.  "Be self-controlled and alert.  Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour."  (I Peter 5:8)
6.  "...that ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, who leads the whole world astray."  (Revelation 12:9b)  *see Genesis 3.

The devil knows scripture and will use it out of context to trick you.  This is why it's important to know the Word and lean on God to protect you from the one that wants to harm you.

. . .

Jesus told us to give up our sinful ways, so that we can receive the kingdom of heaven.  We cannot have both.

I used alcohol to block my depression and suicidal thoughts.  I let it go and God gave me freedom from depression and replaced it with peace and joy.
I used sex to feel self-worth.  I let it go and God taught me how to love myself by helping me become someone I admire.
I refuse to go back.

. . .

I bet Christ visited John in prison and comforted him.  I bet He said, " '...whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me and for the gospel will save it.' "  (Mark 8:35)  In other words, because John the Baptist would die for Christ's sake, he would be given eternal life at the second coming.

. . .

Jesus became famous for His love.  He spent time with people of "low" status.  The church leaders only showed up to accuse or try to trick Jesus.  Jesus healed bodies and spirits.  He talked and listened.  People from all over came to see Him and be healed by Him.

This is probably why the disciples immediately followed Christ when called.  I doubt they would have done so for a stranger.  However, it must have taken great faith for them to give up the familiar to follow Him.

II Chronicles 15 - Asa's Reform (NIV)

Summary:

Asa's Reform
Verses 1-19

The Holy Spirit came to Azariah son of Oded.  Azariah went to Asa with this message - that God was with Asa, Judah, and Benjamin, when they were with Him.  If they sought Him, they would find Him.  If they forsook Him,  He would forsake them.  For a long time, Israel was without a priest to teach them the law.  They turned to God in their distress, sought Him, and were found by Him.  It was unsafe to travel in those days because the nations were in turmoil and were crushing each other.  God had troubled them with every kind of distress.  God told Israel not to give up, because their work would be rewarded.

Asa took courage when he heard this.  He removed the detestable idols from Judah, Benjamin, and the towns he'd captured from the hills of Ephraim.  He repaired the altar of the Lord in front of the portico of His temple.  He assembled Judah, Benjamin, and the people from Ephraim, Manasseh, and Simeon who had settled with them when they saw that God was with them.  They met at Jerusalem in the 3rd month of the 15th year of Asa's reign.  They sacrificed 700 head of cattle and 7,000 sheep and goats from the plunder they'd brought back from fighting the Cushites.  They made a covenant to seek the Lord with all their hearts and souls.  Those that wouldn't would be put to death, regardless of their status or gender.  With a loud acclamation, shouting, trumpets, and horns, Judah rejoiced because of their wholeheartedness.  They sought God eagerly and found Him.  They were given rest on every side.

Asa deposed his grandmother Maacah from her position as queen mother because she'd made a repulsive Asherah pole.  He cut it down, broke, and burned it in the Kidron Valley.  He didn't remove the high places in Israel, but his heart was fully committed to God all his life.  He brought all silver and gold articles that he and his father had dedicated to the Lord's temple.  There was no more war until his 35th year of reign.

Lori's Thoughts:

1.  The Holy Spirit can speak through you.  God does speak to us.  Not always as the trumpet-like voice from heaven that the apostle John experienced, but He does speak to us.
2.  Even without an intercessory priest, Israel found God.  This was before the covenant was in place.  Regardless of the law, God made a way to connect with His children.
3.  If you seek Him, you will find Him.
4.  The wags of sin is death.  This is why the godless nations were troubled by God.  Remember, this was the law of the land before the Crucifixion.  Although the world was in turmoil, God told His people not to give up, for their actions would be rewarded.  After you commit your life to serving Christ, once you've accepted salvation, God will bless you for your works in Him.  You can't be saved by your own efforts.  The devil will try to bring you down, so we must rely on God to see us through.  This chapter shows us that God encourages us.  We can do it!
5.  Asa purged evil from Israel.  We must purge evil from ourselves, via the Holy Spirit.  The Israelites gave gifts to God and celebrated in His name.  Asa wasn't perfect, but He was sincere.  He sought God his whole life.  God gave him 20 years of peace, and I'm sure God was with him when trouble came.  He will do the same for you.  "And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."  (Matthew 28:20b)

Matthew 3 - John the Baptist Prepares the Way (NIV)

Summary:

John the Baptist preached in the Desert of Judea, saying, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near."  (Verse 2)  This fulfilled the prophecy in Isaiah 40:3, which says, 'A voice of once calling in the desert, "Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for Him." '  (Verse 3b)

He wore clothes of camel's hair and a leather belt.  He ate locusts and wild honey.  People from Jerusalem, Judea, and the Jordan went out to him, confessing their sins, and being baptized by him in the Jordan River.

The Pharisees and Sadducees approached, and he called them a brood of vipers.  He asked who had warned them to flee the coming wrath.  He said, "Produce fruit in keeping with repentance."  (Verse 8)  John told them that they couldn't use 'Abraham is our father' as justification for their actions.  God could raise up children for Abraham from the stones.  The ax was at the root of the trees, and those that did not produce good fruit would be cast into the fire.

" 'I baptize you with water for repentance.  But, after me will come One who is more powerful than I, whose sandals I am not fit to carry.  He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire.  His winnowing fork is in His hand, and He will clear His threshing floor, gathering His wheat into the barn and burning up the chaff with unquenchable fire.' "  (Verses 11-12)

The Baptism of Jesus
Verses 13-17

Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan, to be baptized by John.  John said that Jesus should be the one to baptize him.  Jesus said that it was proper for John to baptize Him, to fulfull all righteousness.  John obeyed.

When Jesus came out of the water, heaven was opened.  The Spirit of God descended like a dove with lighting on Him.  A voice from heaven said, " 'This is my Son, whom I love; with Him I am well pleased.' "  (Verse 17b)

Lori's Thoughts:

When I was little and heard the story of John the Baptist, I took it literally.  I envisioned a man removing debris from a narrow pathway and Jesus approaching.  Now I understand it more clearly.  John was preparing our hearts to accept Christ.  The pathways to our hearts were cluttered with sin.  Through baptism, we receive forgiveness and we open ourselves up to receiving Jesus.

Once we accept Him, the sanctification process begins.  Christ deposits the Holy Spirit to guide us on a path of righteousness.  He baptizes us with fire to help us let go of our sinful human nature.  This is what helps us bear good fruit.  Instead of pleasuring ourselves, we love and care for others, helping them come to know Christ.

The Pharisees and Sadducees believed that they were saved because they were ancestors of Abraham.  They were pious and self-righteous rather than dependent upon God.  John the Baptist was a revolutionary man.  He reminds me of a hippie.  He lived off the land and was all about peace.  He and Jesus taught salvation by grace, not works.  The Old Testament covenant displayed the imperfection of humans.  But, the Pharisees and Sadducees believed themselves to be perfect by heritage, thus of a higher class than non-Jews.

However, Christ showed us how everyone can obtain salvation.  No requirement has been given to us that He did not go through.  That's why He was baptized.  Not because He needed forgiveness, for He was sinless, but because He wanted to relate to us and set an example for us.  Later, He died for us, carrying everyone's sins but His own, for He had none.  By these actions, He fulfilled the old covenant and bridged the gap between us and God.

Now, how cool was God's reaction to Christ's baptism?  He let His Son know that He loved Him and was proud of Him.  What a boost of confidence it must have given the human Christ.  I believe that when God is proud of His children, He sheds some of His light on us as well.

II Chronicles 14 - Abijah & Asa, Kings of Judah (NIV)

Summary:

Abijah King of Judah
Verse 1

Abijah rested with his fathers and was buried in the City of David.  His son, Asa, succeeded him as king and there was peace in the land for 10 years.

Asa King of Judah
Verses 2-15

Asa did good in the eyes of God.  He removed from every town the foreign and incense altars, as well as the high places.  He smashed the sacred stones and cut down the Asherah poles.  He commanded Judah to seek God and obey His laws, and the kingdom was at peace.  Asa also built up the fortified cities of Judah.  No one was at war with them during that time because the Lord gave them rest.  Asa put up walls, towers, gates, and bars.  He said that the land was still theirs, because they had sought God and He had given them rest.  So, they built and they prospered.

Asa had an army of 300,000 men of Judah, with large shields and spears, and 280,000 men of Benjamin, with small shields and bows.  They were all brave fighting men.  Zerah the Cushite marched out against them, with a vast army (thousands upon thousands) and 300 chariots.  They marched out to Mareshah.  Nearby, Zerah and Asa took up battle positions in the Valley of Zephathah.

Asa called upon God, claiming that there is none like Him to help the powerless against the mighty.  He asked God for help, stating that they were coming into battle in His name.  He asked for God not to let man prevail against Him.  So, God struck down the Cushites and they fled.  Judah pursued them as far as Gerar.  So many Cushites fell that they couldn't recover.  They were crushed by God and His forces.  Judah took a lot of plunder from them.  They destroyed the villages around Gerar because the terror of the Lord had fallen upon them.  They attacked the camps of the herdsmen and took droves of sheep, goats, and camels.  Then, they returned to Jerusalem.

Lori's Thoughts:

Abijah had led Judah and Benjamin in continuing to serve the Lord, despite what the majority of Israel was doing.  He stood for his beliefs and laid the foundation for Asa to do his work for God.  God gave Asa the time and tools to tear down what was used in idol worship and to build up what belonged to God.  As workers for God, we must lay the groundwork for others to serve Him.  Rather than allow our children to start from ground zero, we can provide them with a platform from which to prosper with God, as Abijah did for Asa.

People have a tendency to only seek God when they are hurting.  I challenge you to seek Him at all times.  Don't stay lukewarm.  During Asa's reign, during the time of peace, they built up their city.  They were ready for battle when the time came.  We must prepare ourselves for spiritual warfare now, so when the battle comes to us, we will know what to do.  First, we must rely on God.  Second, we must use the tools He's given us.  Pick up the sword He's provided for you.  The sword of the Spirit is the Word of God, that is, the Bible.  Check out Ephesians 6, starting at verse 10.  You have been equipped.

Now, I'm not a fan of war.  However, things are different from Asa's time, now that Christ died for us.  Rather than man vs. man, it's humans vs. spirits of darkness.  These spirits turn humans against each other, but God told us this would happen (see Matthew 24, Mark 13, or Luke 21).  We must educate ourselves by studying the Word, so we can bring others to God and to the winning side of the battle.  Remember, though, that we must rely on His strength and follow His lead.  He may not want us to fight, but will fight for us.  He may pave the way and we follow, as He did for Asa.  Seek God and He will supply your every need to help you make it home, because He Wants You There!!!

Matthew 2 - The Visit of the Magi (NIV)

Summary:

The Visit of the Magi
Verses 1-12

After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea (a variant of Judah), during King Herod's reign.  The Magi came from the east to Jerusalem, asking for the king of the Jews, because they'd seen His star in the east and wanted to worship Him.  Herod and Jerusalem were disturbed at this news.  He called the chief priests and law teachers, asking where Christ would be born.  They quoted the prophecy in Micah 5:2 -
" 'But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for out of you will come a ruler who will be the shepherd of my people Israel.' "  (Verse 6)

Herod took the Magi aside to ask for the exact time of the star's appearance.  He told them to let him know when they found the child, so he could go worship Him.  The star led the Magi to Christ, and the Magi were overjoyed when they saw the star.  They found Mary and the baby.  They worshiped Him and gave Him gifts of gold, incense, and myrrh.  They were warned in a dream not to return to Herod, so they went home a different way.

The Escape to Egypt
Verses 13-18

An angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream.  He was instructed to flee with his family to Egypt, because Herod was planning to kill Christ.  Joseph obeyed and they fled in the night.  When Herod realized he'd been outsmarted by the Magi, he was furious and ordered the death of all boys in Bethlehem, ages two and under, based on the timeline that he had received from the Magi.  By this, the prophecy in Jeremiah 31:15 was fulfilled.
" 'A voice is heard in Ramah, weeping and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children and refusing to be comforted, because they are no more.' "  (Verse 18)

The Return to Nazareth
Verses 19-23

Once Herod died, an angel appeared to Joseph in a dream and told him to take his family and return to Israel because those threatening Christ's life were dead.  This fulfilled the prophecy in Hosea 11:1 - " 'Out of Egypt, I called my son.' "  (Verse 15b)  Joseph obeyed.  He heard that Herod's son Archelaus was on the throne, and he feared to go there.  He was warned in a dream to go instead to Galilee.  So, Joseph and his family moved to a town called Nazareth.  This fulfilled what the prophets had said: " 'He will be called a   Nazarene.' "  (Verse 23b)

Lori's Thoughts:

This chapter provides evidence that God has a plan.  Not only does He have a plan, but He sticks to it.  He promised the Israelite prophets that He would send 1/3 of Himself to become human and to become the ultimate sacrifice for everyone.  They wouldn't need to continue making burnt offerings, fellowship offerings, burning of incense, etc.  And these prophecies were fulfilled.  After Christ returned to heaven, prophecies have been made of a second coming, when His children will be brought home with Him and a new heaven and earth will be made.  Do you believe it?  Tap into your measure of faith that Christ deposited to each of us.

By faith and the study of God's word, the Magi traveled to Jerusalem to find the Messiah.  By faith, they avoided King Herod.  By faith, Joseph followed God's instructions sent to him through an angel speaking in his dreams.  He didn't dismiss them as just a dream.  He knew God's voice.  By faith, Mary believed and followed her husband, as their family's spiritual leader. 

For those of you with children, I'm sure you know how challenging it can be to travel with them.  I'm sure it wasn't easy for them to move a lot, while knowing their lives were in danger.  But, they obeyed God's instructions in faith and were saved.

I believe that God held the mothers that lost their children because of Herod.  I believe He had plans to counsel them and restore them.  I believe He will lead me in accordance with His will, no matter what comes.

II Chronicles 13 - Abijah King of Judah

Summary:

Abijah King of Judah
Verses 1-22

During the 18th year of Jeroboam's reign over Israel, Abijah became the king of Judah.  He reigned in Jerusalem for 3 years.  His mother was named Maacah.  She was a daughter of Uriel of Gibeah.

There was war between Abijah and Jeroboam.  Abijah had 400,000 troops and Jeroboam had 800,000.  Abijah stood on Mount Zemaraim, in the hill country of Ephraim, and appealed to Jeroboam and Israel.  He reminded them that God had given the kingship to David's line by a covenant of salt.  Jeroboam son of Nebat was a former official of Solomon, who had rebelled.  Worthless scoundrels had sided with Jeroboam and opposed Rehoboam when he was young, indecisive, and too weak to resist them.  Now, Israel was resisting the kingdom of the Lord.  They had a vast army and the golden calves that Jeroboam had made to be their gods.  They had driven out the priests and Levites as foreign countries had done.  To them, anyone that "consecrated" themselves with a young bull and 7 rams was considered a priest, but for false gods.

Abijah and Judah had not forsaken God.  The priests and Levites offered burnt offerings and fragrant incense to God every morning and evening.  They set out the bread on the ceremonially clean table and lighted the lamps on the golden lampstands every morning.  Judah observed God's requirements, but Israel forsook them.

Abijah declared, "God is with us; He is our leader."  (Verse 12a)  The priests would use their trumpets to sound the battle cry, but Abijah asked Israel not to fight against the Lord, because they would not succeed.  But, Jeroboam sent troops to the rear of Judah to ambush them.  When Judah saw that they were being attacked on both sides, they cried out to God.  The priests blew their trumpets and Judah raised the battle cry.

God routed Jeroboam and Israel before Abijah and Judah.  The Israelites fled and God delivered them to Judah.  Abijah and Judah destroyed 500,000 of Israel's men.  "The men of Israel were subdued on that occasion, and the men of Judah were victorious because they relied on the Lord, the God of their fathers."  (Verse 18)  Abijah pursued Jeroboam and took the towns of Bethel, Jeshanah, Ephron, and their surrounding villages.  Jeroboam did not regain power.  God struck him down and he died.

Abijah grew in strength.  He married 14 wives, had 22 sons and 16 daughters.  His other events are written in the annotations of the prophet Iddo.

Lori's Thoughts:

Your opposition may be twice your size.  They may follow worldly trends.  You may feel like the odd man out.  I know I usually do.  But, Abijah was confident that God would deliver them from this seemingly impossible situation.

Now, Abijah did two noteworthy things.  First, he pled with Israel to consider their actions and to turn back to God.  This was a petition out of love, not an "I'm right, you're wrong" argument.  Second, Abijah did not falter when he was surrounded.  He cried out to God for help and God gave him the victory.

We can do the same.  When trouble comes your way and the devil tries to beat you down, repeat the words of Abijah.  "God is with us; He is our leader."  Believe them.

The Bible gives us evidence of how God turns situations around, changes people for the better, and rescues His children.  Give Him a chance and see how He'll defend you and lift you up.

Matthew 1 - The Genealogy & Birth of Jesus Christ

Summary:

The Genealogy of Jesus
Verses 1-17

This is the record of the line of Jesus Christ, son of David, son of Abraham.

Key: -> = father of
        [ ] = mother of

- Abraham -> Isaac -> Jacob (aka Israel) -> Judah and his brothers
- Judah + [Tamar] -> Perez, Zerah
- Perez -> Hezron -> Ram -> Amminadab -> Nahshon -> Salmon + [Rahab (the one that helped Joshua at  Jericho - *my conclusion)] -> Boaz
- Boaz + [Ruth] -> Obed -> Jesse -> King David
- David + [Uriah's wife (Bathsheba)] -> Solomon -> Rehoboam -> Abijah -> Asa -> Jehoshaphat ->  Jehoram -> Uzziah -> Jotham -> Ahaz -> Hezekiah -> Manasseh -> Amon -> Josiah -> Jeconiah (aka Jehoiachin) and his brothers (at the time of the exile to Babylon)
- post-exile: Jeconiah -> Shealtiel -> Zurubbabel -> Abiud -> Eliakim -> Azor -> Zadok -> Akim -> Eliud  -> Eleazar -> Matthan -> Jacob -> Joseph
- Joseph: Holy Spirit + [Mary] -> Jesus Christ

There are 14 generations between Abraham and David, between David and the exile of Israel, and between the exile and Christ.

Lori's Thoughts:

Family is really imporant to God.  He honored several of His servants by adding them to the royal line of Christ.  Abraham, the man of great faith.  Faith that allowed him to be willing to give up his son, but instead he became the father of nations.  David, a man after God's own heart.  Solomon, the wisest and greatest king of Israel.  Rahab, a spy for Israel that did not die with Jericho, but was adopted into God's chosen nation.  Ruth, a loyal woman, even when she had no more legal ties to her mother-in-law.  She gave up her freedom for family and gained a husband (so romantic).  Joseph, a man so selfless and humble, he'd divorce Mary in secret for bearing a child not his own.  A man who accepted and obyed God's word that made little sense to humans.  And, Mary.  A woman willing to be the vessel that would bring our Savior to earth, so He could save us from sin and show us how to live.

With a network like that, God enables us to stand firmly in faith.  No one is perfect.  Jacob fought with God, David had an affair and committed murder, the Israelites abandoned God and were exiled from the land God gave them.  But, God has a knack for turning things around.  David was reconciled with God and out of David's affair resulted the birth of Solomon, Israel's greatest king.  Out of the exile, faith was restored in Israel and they still were included in the line of Christ.  All it takes is one person to hold onto their faith.  It's contagious.  In a family, biological or not, we hold each other accountable and help each other progress in and keep our faith.  This is why the devil works hard to break families up.

Summary, Cont'd...

The Birth of Jesus Christ
Verses 18-25

Mary and Joseph were engaged.  Mary became pregnant, before they consummated their marriage, through the Holy Spirit.  Joseph was a righteous man and didn't want to publicly disgrace Mary, so he planned to divorce her quietly.

An angel of God appeared to him in a dream and said, " 'Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit.  She will give birth to a son, and you are to give Him the name Jesus, because He will save His people from their sins.' " (Verses 20b-21)

Jesus is the Greek form of Joshua, which means "the Lord saves".
Christ is the Greek form of the Hebrew word, Messiah, which means "the Annointed One".
Immanuel means "God with us".

This event was the fulfillment of Isaiah's prophecy found in Isaiah 7:14.  It states that the virgin will be with child, she will have a son, and they will call Him Immanuel.

When Joseph awoke, he obeyed the angel's message.  He had no union with Mary until after Jesus was born.

Lori's Thoughts, Cont'd...

Can you imagine your plans screwed up only to find out that it is God's plan to do something unconventional and greater than what we'd hoped for?  I bet Joseph was ready to get married and start a family.  It was custom.  It was the honorable thing to do.  But, he learned that his betrothed was pregnant and not by him.  He feared humiliation, maybe even loneliness.  But, God had bigger plans.  Joseph, you can still marry Mary and keep your honor.  You will be honored even more, because I am placing the Son of God into your care.  If it was me, I'd worry that I wouldn't qualify for such a task.  Once again, God uses imperfect people for His perfect plan.  So, when things go "wrong", ask God what He's trying to teach you and trust Him to work everything out for good.

Now, God communicates with us, sometimes through dreams.  I believe in another book, an angel of God appeared to Mary in person.  This is how we know that a messenger is from God:  They tell us not to be afraid.  And, they claim to serve the Lord.  Anyone from Satan will want to intimidate us, even if they initially appear alluring.  And, they will not claim to serve Jesus Christ, as they claim that He is dead. 

"Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.  This is how you can recognize the Spirit of God:  Every spirit that acknowledges that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God, but every spirit that does not acknowledge Jesus is not from God.  This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you have heard is coming and even now is already in the world."  (I John 4:1-3)

Not only is family important, names are important.  They define us.  You know how Sarahs and Pamelas tend to be polar opposites?  I think names are a powerful influence or indicator of our character.  When we go to heaven, we'll receive new names.  I think we'll be named based on what God intended us to be like.  For now, whatever your name is, we serve "the Lord saves, the Annointed One" (Jesus Christ or Jesus Messiah).  So, Christians can be called "His annointed ones".  We will be anointed by the Holy Spirit.

"John answered them all, 'I baptize you with water.  But one more powerful than I will come, the thongs of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie.  He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire.' " (Luke 3:16)

Let your light shine!  Be contagious!  Let everyone you come across see how God is good!