Friday, April 29, 2011

II Chronicles 10 (NIV)

Summary:

Israel Rebels Against Rehoboam
Verses 1-19

Israel was at Shechem to make Rehoboam king.  Jereboam son of Nebat was in Egypt, because he had fled there from Solomon.  Jereboam heard about Rehoboam, so he returned to Israel.  He brought the Israelites to the new king and they asked for him to lighten the load that Solomon had put on them.  Rehoboam told them to return in three days for his answer.

Rehoboam consulted with the elders that had served Solomon.  They told him to be kind and favorable to the people and they would always serve him.  Rehoboam rejected them and consulted the young men serving him, with whom he had grown up.  They told him to tell the Israelites that his pinky finger was greater than his father's waist, that he would make their burden greater.  They also told him to say that, whereas Solomon had used whips to scourge them, Rehoboam would use scorpions.

When the Israelites returned to him, after the three days, Rehoboam told them what the young men had advised.  This was in accordance to the word God had spoken to Jereboam through Ahijah the Shilonite.  The people then asked what part they had with David.  They decided to look after their own houses, so they went home and abandoned Rehoboam.

Rehoboam remained king over Judah only.  He sent out Adoniram, the head of forced labor, to the Israelites.  The Israelites stoned him to death.  Rehoboam, however, escaped on his chariot to Jerusalem.  Israel has been in rebellion against David's house to this day.

Lori's Thoughts:

You can say that again.  I mentioned before the controversy over Israel's capital.  It was Jerusalem in Solomon's time.  Some still argue that it is.  But, the majority of Israel hold that Tel Aviv is the capital.  Functionally and politically, it is.

The big lesson here is this:  God set families up so that there would be a leader/counselor/guide for each.  Our elders aren't always right.  But, they have more experience than we do and they're worth listening to.

The underlying lesson is of humility.  When put in a position of power, we should not assume that we're greater than our predecessor.  We should work hard to be as great and ask God to help us be greater.  By our own power, we stumble and fall.  Rehoboam's pride let do the division of the world's greatest nation.  Although Judah did well for a while, eventually, all tribes fell away from God into idolatry.

In everything, lean on God.

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight."  (Proverbs 3:5-6)

Thursday, April 28, 2011

II Chronicles 9 (NIV)

Summary:

The Queen of Sheba Visits Solomon
Verses 1-12

The queen had heard of Solomon's fame.  She went to Jerusalem to test him with hard questions.  She brought with her a great caravan: camels carrying spices, a lot of gold, and precious stones.  Solomon answered all of her questions without difficulty.  When the queen witnessed his wisdom, palace, food, the seating of his officials, his attending servants and cupbearers and their robes, and the burnt offerings he made at the Lord's temple, she was overwhelmed.  The queen said that the report she had heard of Solomon was true.  She wanted to see it for herself and found that he was greater than the report.  She claimed that his men must be happy to hear his wisdom.  She praised God, who delighted in Solomon and had made him king over His people.  She said that God had made Solomon king to uphold justice and righteousness.

The queen of Sheba gave Solomon 120 talents (~4 1/2 tons) of gold, more spices than anyone had ever given him, and precious stones.  In addition, Hiram and Solomon's men brought back gold from Ophir, algumwood, and precious stones.  Solomon used the algumwood to make the steps for the Lord's temple and the royal palace.  He also used it to make the harps and lyres for the musicians as none ever before in Judah.  Solomon gave the queen all she asked for and more than she had brought to him.  Then, she returned to her own country.

Solomon's Splendor
Verses 13-28

Solomon's yearly weight in gold that he received was 666 talents (~25 tons [don't let the number freak you out; it is merely man's number]), not including the revenue brought in by merchants and traders.  The kings of Arabia and governors of the land brought him gold and silver.  Solomon made 200 large and 300 small shields of hammered gold, with 600 bekas and 300 bekas (~7 1/2 lbs and ~3 3/4 lbs) per shield, respectively.  He placed them in the Palace of the Forest of Lebanon (sounds like something out of Robin Hood).

Solomon made a great throne.  It was inlaid with ivory and overlaid with pure gold.  He built 6 steps and a footstool of gold attached to it.  There were armrests on both sides and a lion next to each armrest.  There was a lion on each side of the steps, totaling 12 lions.  Nothing like it was ever made in any kingdom.  (Getting a visual?  Impressive, huh?)

All of Solomon's goblets were made of gold.  All the household articles in the Palace of the Forest of Lebanon were made of pure gold.  Nothing was made out of silver, because silver had little value in his day (because it was so common).  His fleet of trading ships was manned by Hiram's men.  They returned once every three years with gold, silver, ivory, apes, and baboons.  Solomon had more riches and wisdom than any other king on earth.  All other kings went to hear the wisdom God had put in his heart.  They all brought a gift with them of silver, gold, robes, weapons, spices, horses, and mules.  Solomon had 4,000 stalls for his horses and chariots.  He had 12,000 horses, which he kept in his chariot cities and in Jerusalem. 

He ruled over all the kings from the Euphrates River to Philistia, as far as the border of Egypt.  He made silver as common as stones in Jerusalem.  Cedar was as plentiful as sycamore-fig trees in the foothills.  His horses were imported from Egypt and every other country.

Solomon's Death
Verses 29-31

His other events are written in the records of Nathan the prophet, in the prophecy of Ahijah the Shilonite, and in the visions of Iddo the seer, regarding Jeroboam son of Nebat.  Solomon reigned in Jerusalem for 40 years.  He rested with his fathers and was buried in the City of David.  Rehoboam his son succeeded him as king.

Lori's Thoughts:

" 'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.' "  (Jeremiah 29:11)

I do not have a tenth of Solomon's great riches, fame, or wisdom.  However, I believe this verse in Jeremiah applies to me as much as it did to him.  I do not believe it was in God's plan to have my heart get broken for the nth time or for my grandmother to have breast cancer.  I do not believe it is in His will for the devastation caused by nature in southern U.S., Haiti, or Japan.  I do not believe it is His will for innocent people to open their homes' doors to get shot by the Syrian military.

I do believe He wants our lives to be more like that of Solomon's.  Sometimes I get weary with the woes of life and I start to believe the devil's lies that make me doubt the hand of God in my life.

But, it is by God's hand that I have any form of sanity after my abusive childhood.  It is by God's hand that I have joy after countless times of crushing heartache.  It is by God's hand that I have never been destitute in need.  And I believe that when I get to heaven, I will see my grandfather without diabetes, my grandmother without cancer, my mother with joy, my sister without anger, and my other sister with love.

One of my co-workers died in his sleep at age 31.  He left behind his wife and young daughter.  I ache for a life companion.  This ache cannot compare to what it must be like to lose one.

We should not fear death, however.  Based on yesterday's studies, death in this life is not the end.  I believe that we will be resurrected and brought to live with Christ in a kingdom far more splenderous (if that's a word) than Solomon's.

"For the Lord Himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first.  After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air.  And so we will be with the Lord forever."  (I Thessalonians 4:16-17)

So, do not worry about what the world worries about.

"...seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given you as well."  (Matthew 6:33)  It worked for Solomon.

How do you seek God first?  Talk to Him before you get out of bed.  Tell Him what you have going on today.  Ask Him to guide your every step.  Read His word before you get to work or school.  It really sets the day's mood.

Wednesday, April 27, 2011

Revelation 20 (NIV)

*Author's Note:  I completely forgot that today was a Chronicles day.  However, maybe God wanted me to study Revelation today.*

Summary:

The Thousand Years
Verses 1-6

John saw an angel descending from heaven, holding the key to the Abyss and a great chain.  The angel seized the dragon, the ancient serpent that is the devil, also known as Satan.  The dragon was bound for 1,000 years.  The angel threw Satan into the Abyss, locking and sealing it so that he could not deceive the nations.  He must be set free for a short time afterwards.

John saw thrones on which were seated those given the authority to judge.  He saw the souls of those beheaded because of Jesus' testimony and the word of God.  They did not worship the beast or his image or receive his mark on their foreheads or hands.  They came to life and reigned with Christ for 1,000 years.  This is the first resurrection.  Blessed and holy are those involved.  The second death has no power over them.  They will reign with Christ as priests of God.  The rest of the dead will arise afterwards.

Satan's Doom
Verses 7-10

When the thousand years are over, Satan will be released and will deceive the nations in the earth's four corners, Gog and Magog, to gather them for battle.  He will enlist people as numerous as the sand on the seashore.  They marched across the earth and surrounded the camp of God's people, the city that He loves.  Fire came down from heaven and devoured them.  The devil was thrown into the lake of burning sulfur, where the beast and false prophet were thrown.  They will be tormented day and night, forever.

The Dead Are Judged
Verses 11-15

John saw a great white throne and Him who is seated on it.  The earth and sky fled from Him; there was no place for them.  He saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne.  Books were opened.  The book of life was also opened.  The dead are judged according to what they had done, as recorded in this book.  The sea, death, and Hades gave up their dead and they were judged.  Death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire, which is the second death.  Anyone whose name is not written in the book of life was thrown into the lake of fire.

Lori's Thoughts:

I was wrong.  I thought the beast from the last chapter was the devil.  The beast is the leader that many will follow instead of God.  However, Satan will also be thrown into the sulfur lake, along with the two beasts, that is the leader and the false prophet.

So, for a thousand years, martyrs will be raised back to life and will reign with Christ while Satan is bound.  If Satan can't deceive anyone for this time, does that mean that more people can be saved without his interference?  I hope so.  But, when the devil is let loose, he will deceive as many people as the sand of a seashore.  That sucks!

There will be two resurrections and two deaths, aside from those of Jesus.  The martyrs will die once and be resurrected once.  The rest of the dead will arise in the "second resurrection" (my term), but may die again in the lake of fire.  I wonder if this is different than the lake of sulfur?  If so, only the dragon and two beasts will be tormented forever.  I hope so, because I would not wish eternal torment for any human.  Not even to those that have abused me.

Tuesday, April 26, 2011

Revelation 19 (NIV)

Summary:

Hallelujah!
Verses 1-10

John heard something like the roar of a great multitude in heaven, shouting: " 'Hallelujah!  Salvation and glory and power belong to our God, for true and just are His judgements.  He has condemned the great prostitute who corrupted the earth by her adulteries.  He has avenged on her the blood of His servants.' "  (Verses 1b-2)  Again, they shouted:  " 'Hallelujah!  The smoke from her goes up for ever and ever.' "  (Verse 3b)

The 24 elders and the 4 living creatures fell down and worshiped God, who sits on the throne.  They cried:    " 'Amen, Hallelujah!' "  (Verse 4b)  A voice from the throne said: " 'Praise our God, all you His servants, you who fear Him, both small and great!' "  (Verse 5b)

John heard something like a great multitude, the roar of rushing waters, and loud peals of thunder, shouting:     " 'Hallelujah!  For our Lord God Almighty reigns, let us rejoice and be glad and give Him glory!  For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and His bride has made herself ready.  Fine linen, bright and clean was given her to wear.'  (Fine linen stands for the righteous acts of the saints.)"  (Verses 6b-8)

An angel told John to write down that those invited to the Lamb's wedding supper are blessed.  These are the true words of God.  John fell at the angel's feet to worship him, but the angel told him not to, because they were brothers who held the testimony of Jesus.  The angel told John to worship God and that the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.

The Rider on the White Horse
Verses 11-21

John saw heaven standing open and a white horse appeared.  The rider is called Faithful and True.  With justice, He judges and makes war.  His eyes are like blazing fire.  He has many crowns on His head.  He has a name written on Him that only He knows.  The rider is dressed in a robe dipped in blood.  His name is the Word of God.  The armies of heaven following Him are riding on white horses, dressed in fine linen, white and clean.  From His mouth comes a sharp sword to strike down the nations.  " 'He will rule them with an iron scepter.' "  (Verse 15b; Psalm 2:9)  The rider treads the winepress of the fury of God's wrath.  His name is written on His robe and on His thigh.  It says KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS

John saw an angel standing in the sun.  The angel called to the birds flying in midair to come and gather for God's great supper.  They were to eat the flesh of rulers, horses and riders, people great and small.

John saw the beast, the kings of the earth, and their armies gathered to make war against the rider on the horse and His army.  The beast and false prophet were captured.  The false prophet performs miracles on the beast's behalf and deludes those with the mark of the beast and who worship his image.  They were both thrown alive into the fiery lake of burning sulfur.  The rest were killed with the sword from the rider's mouth.  The birds gorged themselves on their flesh.

Lori's Thoughts:

Victory!  Christ is the Almighty Conqueror of sin and death!  We can shout for joy in confidence!  This is hard to do when the devil lies to us and tells us that if God existed, why is there so much evil and hurt?  Just you wait, devil.  God speaks to me and protects me and He always tells the truth.  He will return and kick you down for good.  Right now, He is giving all of us a chance to turn to Him and fall at His feet.  I will cling to Him for dear life.

We're currently engaged.  When the time comes to ask if anyone objects to the union of Christ and His people, the devil will speak up and tell of all our sins.  Christ will come riding on a white horse, in His blood-dipped robe, and say that we, His children, are covered.  Then the devil will finally be destroyed!

It doesn't look very pretty for those that follow the devil.  They will be destroyed by the sword of Christ's mouth.  I believe this symbolizes the Word of God.  It is fitting, for by His Word we were made, and by His Word we can be unmade.

I don't know about you, but I want to ride off into the sunset with the Man on the white horse.

*Note:  If you would like to dedicate your life to Jesus Christ, all you need to do is tell Him.  If you would like to message me to talk or pray, please let me know.  My email address is: rios.lorianne@gmail.com.*

Monday, April 25, 2011

II Chronicles 8 (NIV)

Summary:

Solomon's Other Activities
Verses 1-18

Solomon finished building his palace and the Lord's temple in 20 years.  Then, he rebuilt the villages given to him by Hiram, the king of Tyre.  The Israelites settled in them.

Solomon captured Hamath Zobah, where he built his store cities.  He built up Tadmor in the desert.  He rebuilt Upper and Lower Beth Horon as fortified cities, with walls, gates, and bars.  He also built up Baalath and its store cities, as well as the cities for his chariots and horses.  He built whatever he wanted to build in Jerusalem, Lebanon, and all of his territory.

The non-Israelites remaining in Israel were descended from the Hittites, Amorites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites.  They were conscripted for Solomon's slave labor force.  The Israelites, however, were employed as fighting men; as commanders of Solomon's captains, chariots, and charioteers (horses); and 250 chief officials were appointed to supervise the men.

Solomon brought up Pharoah's daughter from the City of David to the palace he had built for her.  He said that his wife shouldn't live at David's palace, because the places the Lord's ark had entered were holy.

Solomon sacrificed burnt offerings to God, on the altar he had built in front of the portico.  He followed the daily requirements for the offerings, which had been commanded by Moses for the Sabbaths, New Moons, and 3 annual feasts: the Feasts of Unleavened Bread, of Weeks, and of Tabernacles.  Solomon kept the ordinance of David by appointing the divisions of the priests for their duties, the Levites to lead praise and assist the priests with their daily requirements, and the divisions of the gatekeepers.  They did not deviate from the king's commands, including those of the treasuries, every day through the completion of the Lord's temple. 

Afterwards, Solomon went to Ezion Geber and Elath on the coast of Edom.  Hiram sent him ships with his own officers, who knew the sea.  With Solomon's men, they sailed to Ophir and came back with 450 talents (~17 tons) of gold.

Lori's Thoughts:

Would you stick to a project that took 20 years?  That's almost my whole lifespan.  God is not bound by time.  He didn't grow impatient or frustrated with the amount of time it took to build this dwelling place.  He provided Solomon with all the tools he needed.  Without God, Solomon would have grown weary.  He may have rushed to finish up and the quality of the work would have dropped.

If God gives us a task, we must rely on Him and be willing to give it our all.  God does not put a rush stamp on it.  Why would He if He is everywhen?  With Him, we are capable of accomplishing great things.  And, our lives carry a noble purpose.

So, what is God's purpose for us today, now that rituals are no longer required?  He wants us to love.  How?  " 'Then the King will say to those on His right, "Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world.  For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in.  I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me."  "...I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me." '"  (Matthew 25:34-36, 40)

. . .

On to the topic of slavery.  Slavery is not God's intention for anyone.  Those that became slaves to Israel were not God's people.  They were not in right standing with God.  I highly doubt God's people would have abused their slaves, for God gave Israel regulations for justice among natives and foreigners.  Now, when Christ died, He did so for everyone.  There is only freedom with God.  "Some sat in darkness and the deepest gloom, prisoners suffering in iron chains, for they had rebelled against the words of God and despised the counsel of the Most High.  So he subjected them to bitter labor; they stumbled, and there was no one to help.  then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and He saved them from their distress.  He brought them out of darkness and the deepest gloom and broke away their chains.  Let them give thanks to the Lord for His unfailing love and His wonderful deeds for men, for He breaks down gates of bronze and cuts through bars of iron."  (Psalm 107:10-16)

. . .

I don't think anyone is holy enough to live where the Lord's tabernacle had been.  So, I don't think the fact that an Egyptian woman was moved to another place had a lot to do with her gender or race.  Solomon did a good thing setting David's house apart as holy.  Now that we have been sanctified by Christ's blood, we can boldly approach God's throne.  Not in arrogance, but in confidence knowing that we are in good standing with God (righteousness).  "Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need."  (Hebrews 4:16)

Well, Solomon's life was full of festivals, construction, and riches.  Life is good with God.  I am rich, because I have joy and peace regardless of my circumstances.  I'm not wealthy, nor do I have a high status.  But, I wouldn't trade my quiet moments with God, that have me smiling and dancing, for the world.

Friday, April 22, 2011

Revelation 18 (NIV)

Summary:

The Fall of Babylon
Verses 1-24

John saw another angel descend from heaven.  He had great authority and the earth was illuminated by his splendor.  In a mighty voice, he shouted that Babylon the Great had fallen.  She had become a home for demons and a haunt for every evil spirit, every unclean and detestable bird.  All nations drank of the maddening wine of her adulteries.  The kings of the earth committed adultery with her.  The merchants became rich from her excessive luxuries.

John heard another voice from heaven say: Let my people come out of her, so they will not share in her sins or receive her plagues.  Her sins are piled up to heaven.  God has remembered her crimes.  Repay her for what she has done.  Give her a double portion of her own cup.  As much glory and luxury that she gave herself, give her as much torture and grief.  She boasts in her heart, saying that she is a queen and not a widow.  She says she will never mourn.  Therefore, in one day, her plagues will overtake her: death, mourning, and famine.  She is consumed by famine because mighty is the Lord God who judges her.

The kings of the earth who share in her luxury and adultery will see the smoke of her burning.  They will weep and mourn for her.  They will be terrified of her torment.  They will stand far off and cry: woe, great city of Babylon!  In one hour, her doom has come!

The merchants will weep and mourn because no one buys their cargo anymore.  Their cargo consisted of gold, silver, precious stones, and pearls; fine linen, purple, silk, and scarlet cloth; every kind of citron wood; articles of ivory, costly wood, bronze, iron, and marble; cinnamon, spice, incense, myrrh, and frankincense; wine, olive oil, fine flour, and wheat; cattle, sheep, horses, and carriages; bodies and souls of men.  They will say that the fruit she longed for is gone.  All her riches and splendor have vanished forever.  They will stand far off, terrified of her torment.  They will weep, mourn, and cry out: woe to the great city, lavishly adorned!  In one hour, she has been brought to ruin!

Every sea captain and sea merchant will stand far off.  They will see the smoke of her burning.  They will ask if there was ever a city as great as her.  They will throw dust on their heads.  They will weep, mourn, and cry out: woe to the great city, where all ships became rich through her wealth!  She has been brought to ruin in one hour!  Rejoice heaven, the saints, apostles, and prophets, because God has judged her for her treatment of you.

A mighty angel picked up a boulder as large as a millstone and threw it into the sea.  He said that, with such violence, Babylon would be thrown down, never to be found again.  The music of harpists, musicians, flute players, and trumpeters will never again be heard in her.  No workman of any trade, nor sound of millstone, nor light of a lamp, nor voice of a bridegroom or bride will be found in her again.  Her merchants were the world's greatest men.  Her magic spell led the nations astray.  In her was found the blood of prophets, saints, and all those killed on earth.

Lori's Thoughts:

Riches and splendor from without.  At what cost?  Bloodshed, adultery, and idolatry.  Her punishment will be brought upon her own head.

God gently, but persistently, calls us.  Those who hear His voice and seek it out will escape the jaws of the great deceiver.  The most precious and lavish thing any of us can ever obtain is the love of God.  "How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!  And that is what we are!"  (I John 3:1)

Those who benefitted from Babylon will abandon her when they see her ruined.  There is no loyalty there, only greed.  They will mourn only because their riches are gone.  Those that received the mark of the beast in order to trade and make money will have sold their souls.  I'm sure this is the fine print of such a transaction.

Your soul is worth more than all the riches this world will ever have to offer.  Your soul is worth the life of God.  He bought you.  It is your choice whether you want to live in ephemeral splendor now or deny your human desires to build up your spirit and gain the eternal riches of love and of heaven.

Thursday, April 21, 2011

II Chronicles 7 (NIV)

Summary:

The Dedication of the Temple
Verses 1-10

After Solomon's prayer, fire came from heaven and consumed the burnt offerings and sacrifices.  The glory of God filled the temple and the priests couldn't enter it.  The Israelites saw this, knelt on the pavement with their faces to the ground, worshiped, and thanked God.  They proclaimed, " 'He is good; His love endures forever.' " (Verse 3b)

The king and the people offered sacrifices before God.  Solomon offered 22,000 heads of cattle and 120,000 sheep and goats.  They all dedicated the temple of the Lord.

The priests and Levites took up their places, each with their instruments provided by David for praising God.  The priests blew their trumpets while the Israelites stood.

Solomon consecrated the middle of the courtyard, in front of the temple, where he offered burnt offerings and the fat of the fellowship offerings, because the bronze altar couldn't hold all of the burnt and grain offerings, or the fat portions.  Solomon and the vast assembly, people from Lebo Hamath to the Wadi of Egypt, celebrated the temple dedication for 7 days.  Then, they held the festival for another 7 days.  On the 23rd day of the 7th month, Solomon sent the people home.  He was joyful and glad for the good things that God had done for David, Solomon, and Israel.

The Lord Appears to Solomon
Verses 11-22

After Solomon finished building the temple and his palace, the Lord appeared to him at night and said:
-He had heard Solomon's prayer and had chosen the temple for Himself for the sacrifices.
-When He shut up the heavens to hold the rain, or sent locusts on the land or plagues on the people - if His people, those who are called by His name, would humble themselves, pray to and seek Him, turning from their wickedness, then God would hear, forgive, and heal them.
-His eyes and ears were open to the prayers offered in the temple.
-He had chosen and consecrated the temple for His name.
- " 'My eyes and my heart will always be there.' " (Verse 16b)
-If Solomon walked before God as David had and obeyed God's commands, God would establish his throne as He had promised David that He would keep his line on the throne.
-If Solomon turned from God and His laws, turning to other gods, God would uproot Israel from the promised land and reject the temple.  The temple would become an object of ridicule.  It was currently an imposing place, but people would be appalled by it.  They would know that God made the temple and the land desolate because the people forsook the One who brought them out of Egypt.  There would be disaster if they embraced and worshiped other gods.

Lori's Thoughts:

God hears our prayers and responds to them.  In the Old Testament times, things were more extreme.  God requires perfection.  If we are perfect, He dwells with us.  That's the reason there were so many rituals back then.  Humans are sinful by nature, since the fall in Eden.  So, we need rules to show us how to live.  So, when the Israelites kept God's commands, God did things like send fire from heaven for their sacrifices or appear as a cloud in the temple.  On the other hand, if they worshiped anyone or anything other than Him, they'd be severely punished.  This was the result of their sins, but God told them what was required for them to be reconciled.  God wants us.  He is a jealous God.  It's all or nothing with Him.  How bad is that if He provides us with all we need?

Now, I know it's impossible for us to be perfect.  This is where grace comes in.  In the New Testament times, which includes the present, things are less extreme.  Christ is perfection and He shared it with us when He died on the cross.  He did away with the need for rituals.  Now is the time for relationships.  If we study the Bible, we are shown how to live and love as Christ did.  When we pray, God's answers are not so flashy.  But, He does speak to us.  He spoke to Solomon in his dreams and I believe He does so with others now.  Sometimes it's a quiet internal thought that just makes sense, as He does with me.

If nothing else, remember that there is forgiveness for all sins and a renewal for relationships with the One who loves us more than His own life.  Remember to thank Him for it.  The best way is by offering your life to Him for service in love.

Wednesday, April 20, 2011

Revelation 17 (NIV)

Summary:

The Woman on the Beast
Verses 1-18

One of the 7 angels with the 7 bowls told John to come with him to see the punishment of the great prostitute who sits on many waters.  The kings of the earth committed adultery with her, and the inhabitants of the earth were intoxicated with the wine of her adulteries.

The angel carried John away in the Spirit into a desert.  John saw a woman sitting on a scarlet beast covered with blasphemous names, with 7 heads and 10 horns.  The woman was dressed in purple and scarlet.  She was adorned with gold, precious stones, and pearls.  She held a golden cup filled with abominable things and the filth of her adulteries.  This was the title on her forehead:  "Mystery, Babylon the Great, The Mother of Prostitutes and of the Abominations of the Earth."  (Verse 5b)  She was drunk with the blood of the saints and of those who testify of Jesus.

John was greatly astonished when he saw her.  The angel asked him why, then said he'd explain the mystery of the woman and the beast:
- The beast once was, now is not, and will come again.  He will come up out of the Abyss and go to his destruction.  Those whose names are not written in the book of life will be astonished at the beast.
- "This calls for a mind with wisdom." (Verse 9a)
- The 7 heads are the 7 hills on which she sits.  They are also 7 kings.  5 have fallen, 1 is, and the other will come.  When the last one comes, he must remain for a little while.
- The beast is the 8th king.  He belongs to the 7 and is going to his destruction.
- The 10 horns are 10 kings who have not yet received a kingdom.  They will have authority, as kings, along with the beast for one hour.  They have one purpose.  They will give their power and authority to the beast.  They will make war against the Lamb.  The Lamb will overcome them, because He is the King of kings and Lord of lords.  With Him will be the called, chosen, and faithful followers.
- The waters upon which she sits are peoples, multitudes, nations, and languages.  The beast and the 10 horns will hate and ruin her.  They will leave her naked, eat her flesh, and burn her with fire.  God put it in their hearts to accomplish this by agreeing to give their power to the beast, until God's words are fulfilled.
- The woman is the great city that rules over the kings of the earth.

Lori's Thoughts:

An adulterer is someone who is unfaithful to their spouse.  In this case, I believe that the prostitute Babylon is the unfaithful one against God.  She is a city lavishly adorned.  I believe she and those drunk with her wine worship money and power.  These are their gods.  She will persecute and kill some of God's people, but no one will overcome the Lamb, that is Jesus Christ.

I do not know who the beast is.  I thought it was Satan, but the angel said that he was, was not, then came again.  This beast is the 8th king.  Maybe he was one of the fallen 5 that came to power again.  So, this leader will rise, fall, then rise again and bewilder non-believers.  That's as far as I got with that one.  God will clarify according to His will.

So, Babylon (the woman) will rule over 7 nations or rulers.  People of all nationalities will follow her.  5 of the rulers fell, 1 is in power, and another will come and rule for a short time.  However, 10 rulers will come and support the beast that she rides on.  They will destroy Babylon and make war against the Lamb.  But the Lamb and His faithful ones will overcome.

I don't fully understand this chapter.  But, I know that we need to be strong in our faith to not be deceived and not lose faith when we are persecuted.  Christ will be with us and fight for us at every step.

Tuesday, April 19, 2011

II Chronicles 6 (NIV)

**Note:  A break from the norm (gasp!).  In this entry, I'll be interspersing my thoughts in purple.

The Ark Brought to the Temple
Verses 1-11

Solomon spoke to the Israelite assembly, telling them that God had said He would dwell in a dark cloud.  (In the last chapter, we ended with the glory of God filling the temple with a cloud.  God appeared to them in a cloud, because, as humans and sinners, we cannot handle His glory.)  Solomon had built a magnificent temple, in which God could dwell forever.  (I'm guessing Solomon said forever, because didn't know about Christ's future death, which would rend the curtain between the Holy Place and Most Holy Place, thus doing away with the old covenant.)

The king turned to the whole Israelite assembly and blessed them.  (As Christians, we will desire to share God and His blessings with others.)  Solomon praised God, who had fulfilled His promise to David.  (God keeps His promises!  You can trust Him!)  God had chosen Jerusalem for His Name's dwelling place and had chosen David to rule over His people Israel.  David wanted to build the temple and God said that that was a good desire for him to have in his heart, but that he was not the one to do it.  His own flesh and blood, his son Solomon, would do it.  (Just because God says no to you, it does not mean that He is disappointed in you!  You could be in great standing with Him.  He sees all and may have something better planned.  He didn't ignore David because he wasn't the one.  God included David for the rest of his life.  God has a purpose for you and me.  It may not be what we have in mind.  But, we are never expendable to Him.  We are precious and wanted by Him.)

God kept His promise by making Solomon king and helping him complete the temple construction.  This is where Solomon placed the ark with the covenant between God and Israel.

Solomon's Prayer of Dedication
Verses 12-42

Solomon stood before the Lord's altar and before the Israelite assembly.  He had made a bronze platform that was 7 1/2ft long X 7 1/2ft wide X 4 1/2ft high (5 cubits X 5 cubits X 3 cubits).  It was placed in the center of the outer court.  Solomon knelt on it and spread out his hands towards heaven.  (If we pray with open hands, we allow God to take and give as He sees fit.  Problems?  Let them go.  Want to be blessed?  Open up to God.)  Solomon said that there is no one like God in heaven or earth.  God keeps His covenant of love and continues in His way wholeheartedly.  (If there is anyone that would throw themself fully into keeping promises, courting us, and protecting us, it is God!  He died for us!  Do you get that?!  He died for you.  You are worth it!  No one is worthy enough to meet perfection and gain salvation, but we are all worth it to God to save us, even when He knows how many times we have and will mess up.  He.  Loves.  Us.)

God fulfilled His promise.  (Acknowledge and thank Him when He does.  Record it even, so you can remember it when life makes us forget.)  Solomon brought up God's promise to always have a king for Israel, if they kept His law.  Solomon asked for God to let it come true.  (Since God has come through for us in the past, we can walk in faith, trusting and knowing that He will come through for us in the future.)  Solomon asked if God would really dwell among men, since the highest heavens could not contain Him.  So, how could the temple contain Him?  (We must stop defining God by our limitations as humans.  Take heart, for He is great and mighty!  We are puny next to Him, but He holds us anyway.) 

Solomon asked for God to hear His servant's prayer, to open His eyes to the temple at all times.  Solomon asked for God to hear the prayers of His people in the temple and to forgive them.  (The temple was the place for the atonement of sins.  God never expected us to be perfect.  He created a system to reconciliate us to Him for every time we screw up.  In the new covenant, which involves us, we can come to God directly, instead of through a priest's sacrificial offering.  Jesus Christ is our priest and our once and eternal offering.  The more we walk and talk with Him, the less we sin.  It happens naturally.  Now, please do not equate sin with fun.  As you come to know God, you will find that He has a sense of humor and He experiences joy when we fellowship with others.)

When a man wronged his neighbor, he was required to take an oath before the altar, at the temple.  Solomon asked God to hear the oath, judge between the people involved, repay the guilty, declare and establish the innocent.  When Israel was defeated by an enemy, because they had sinned, then turned back to God in prayer, Solomon asked for God to hear, forgive, and re-establish them in the promised land.  (God allows us, sometimes, to experience hardship to get our attention.  We need to realize that we are out of step with God.  He takes us back every time, if we are sincere.  However, hardships happen even when we are in step with God.  Why?  Because the devil dwells on earth and he hates us.  Why?  Because we are the creation of the One he hates.  God is always with us, though.  We are being refined.  It is never a bad thing to have to lean on God.  Watch Him as He fights and wins battles for you, whether it's for finances, health, relationships, whatever.  Remember, He will never allow anything too great for you to happen [see I Corinthians 10:13] and trials bring perseverance [see Romans 5: 3-4].  We are currently attaining spiritual fitness.)

When Israel received no rain because of their sin and they prayed, turned away from sin, and confessed the name of the Lord, Solomon asked for God to hear and forgive them.  He asked for God to teach them the right way to live and to bring back the rain.  For the times of famine, plague, blight, mildew, locusts, grasshoppers, enemies besieging their cities, any disaster or disease, and when they offered up prayers or pleas - Solomon asked that a person, aware of their afflictions, with their hands toward the temple (in our case, heaven) for God to hear them. 

God knows all hearts.  Solomon asked for God to forgive and deal with each one accordingly.  Let us fear God and walk in His ways.

For the foreigners who had heard of God, His mighty hand, and outstretched arm (God reaches for us - all of us), and came to the temple to pray, Solomon asked for God to hear them and grant their request, so that everyone on earth would know and fear Him.  (Once again, Solomon wants to share God and His blessings!)

When His people go to war, wherever He sends them, and they pray, Solomon asked for God to hear their prayer and uphold their cause.  When they sin, for no one is without sin, incurring God's anger, and He allows them to be overcome by an enemy - when they have a change of heart while captive, they repent, and they plead for freedom, if they turn back to God wholeheartedly, Solomon asked for God to hear them and uphold their cause.  He asked for God to forgive those that sin against Him.  He also asked for God's eyes to be opened and His ears to be attentive to the prayers offered at the temple.

Solomon invited God to dwell in the temple.  He asked for God's priests to be clothed with salvation and for God's servants to rejoice in His goodness.  Solomon asked for God not to reject His anointed one (Solomon was the anointed king) and for God to remember the great love He had promised to David, His servant.  (I have no doubt that God granted Solomon's request for wisdom.  This whole chapter is infused with his wisdom.)

Friends, no matter how far you've gone from God, there is no place you could go that is too far for Him to reach.  (See Ephesians 3:17-18)  Believe me, I've heard stories of people who were pretty far from God.  This woman was so far into the occult, that she had conversations with Satan.  After years of service to him and against God's servants, she met one of God's human ambassadors.  She decided to give her life to Jesus Christ.  He immediately accepted her.  He'll do the same for you, no matter where you are.  That, my friend, is the good news of the gospel of Jesus Christ.  Live it!

Monday, April 18, 2011

Revelation 16 (NIV)

Summary:

The Seven Bowls of God's Wrath
Verses 1-21

John heard a loud voice from the temple tell the 7 angels to pour out the 7 bowls of God's wrath onto the earth:

1. Poured onto the land -> ugly and painful sores on the people with the mark of the beast and who worshiped his image.

2.  Poured onto the sea -> turned to blood, like that of a dead person.  Everything in the sea died.

3.  Poured onto rivers and springs -> turned to blood.  The angel said that God was just in doing so, because these people had shed the blood of His saints and prophets.  Now, they had blood to drink.  The altar responded that the Almighty God is true and just in His judgments.

4.  Poured onto the sun -> gave the sun power to scorch people with fire.  They were seared by the heat and cursed God, refusing to repent or glorify Him.

5.  Poured onto the throne of the beast -> his kingdom was plunged into darkness.  Men gnawed their tongues in agony and cursed God because of their pain and sores.  They refused to repent.

6.  Poured onto the Euphrates -> its water was dried up to prepare the way for the kings from the East.  3 evil spirits, one from each mouth of the dragon, the beast, and the false prophet came out.  They were frog-like demons that could perform miracles.  They will go to the kings of the world and gather them for battle on the great day of God Almighty.

" 'Behold, I come like a thief!  Blessed is he who stays awake and keeps his clothes with him, so that he may not go naked and be shamefully exposed.' "  (Verse 15)

The kings gathered at the place that is known in Hebrew as Armageddon.

7.  Poured into the air -> a loud voice from the throne said, "It is done!"  There was lightning, rumblings, thunder, and a severe earthquake like none other before.  The city split into three.  The cities of the nations collapsed.  God remembered Babylon and gave her the cup of the wine of His wrath's fury.  Every island and mountain disappeared.  Huge hailstones, 100lbs each, fell on man.  They cursed God because the plague was so terrible.

Lori's Thoughts:

This is what happens when you refuse love.  God is love and He cannot accept anything other than love.  This is justice.  Those that choose the devil as their master want nothing to do with God and must be destroyed.

The devil will continue to deceive mankind by building an army and giving men the notion that they can defeat God.  The devil knows he is going down, and he is throwing his fist in God's face by taking some of His children down with him.  However, we all have a choice for whom we want to serve and share with in their destiny.  Christ or Satan.

Verse 15 - " 'Behold, I come like a thief!  Blessed is he who stays awake and keeps his clothes with him, so that he may not go naked and be shamefully exposed.' "   Always know which side you're on.  Don't get distracted and loosen your grip on God and be in danger of falling away from Him.  If you grow weary, ask Him for strength.  Whatever you need to make it through, He'll provide.  Just ask.

Friday, April 15, 2011

II Chronicles 5 (NIV)

Summary:

The Temple Furnishings
Verse 1

When the temple work was done, Solomon brought in all his father David had dedicated: silver, gold, and furnishings.  Solomon stored them in the temple treasuries.

The Ark Brought to the Temple
Verses 2-14

Solomon summoned the elders, heads of tribes, and chiefs of the Israelite families up to Jerusalem.  They were to bring up the ark of the Lord's covenant from Zion, the City of David.  All these men came up at the time of the festival in the 7th month.  They took up the ark, the Tent of Meeting, and all the sacred furnishings.  These were carried by the Levites.  In Jerusalem, they sacrificed more sheep and cattle than could be counted.

The priests brought the ark to the Most Holy Place and set it under the wings of the cherubim.  The poles were so long that their ends could be seen from the inner sanctuary, but not from outside the Holy Place.  The ark is still there to this day.  In the ark are the 2 tablets that Moses received at Mount Horeb, where God made a covenant with Israel after they came out of Egypt.  The priests left the Holy Place and consecrated themselves.

The Levite musicians: Asaph, Heman, Jeduthun, their sons and relatives stood on the east side of the altar, dressed in fine linen.  They played the cymbals, harps, and lyres.  They were accompanied by 120 priests sounding trumpets.  The trumpeters and singers joined with one voice to give PRAISE and THANKS to the Lord.  "He is good; His love endures forever."  (Verse 13b)

The temple filled with a cloud and the priests could not perform their duties, because the glory of God filled His temple.

Lori's Thoughts:

Yes!!!  This is how it was meant to be between us and God!  Give glory to Him for bringing you out of bondage and into prosperity.  We may not be Israelites, but Christ adopted us when He came and sacrificed Himself for us.  We no longer need to sacrifice animals to atone for our sins.  We must accept Christ's atonement for us.

See what happens when we praise Him?  His glory filled the temple of the Old Testament.  If we accept Christ, who fulfilled the old covenant, and allow Him to live in us in the new covenant, you can be sure that His glory will fill us when we praise Him.

Take time to thank Him this Easter!  We should celebrate His death and resurrection as much, if not more, than His birth.  It doesn't need to be elaborate, just heartfelt.  "He is good; His love endures forever!"

Need a place to experience heartfelt praise?  Come to Gateway Fellowship on any Saturday at 6:00pm.  It's at Takoma Academy - 8120 Carroll Ave., Takoma Park, MD 20912.
Website: http://mygatewayfellowship.com/ 
or listen to WGTS 91.9FM on the radio or online at: http://www.wgts919.com/

Remember to praise God when times are hard, because He is holding you and will see you through.  Remember to praise God when times are good, because He is holding you and is seeing you through.

"Oh, praise the One, who paid my debt, and raised this life up from the dead!"
"Oh, Praise The One, Who Paid My Debt, And Raised This Life Up From The Dead!"
"OH, PRAISE THE ONE, WHO PAID MY DEBT AND RAISED THIS LIFE UP FROM THE DEAD!"
"OH, PRAISE THE ONE, WHO PAID MY DEBT AND RAISED THIS LIFE UP FROM THE DEAD!!!"

Thursday, April 14, 2011

II Chronicles 4 (NIV)

Summary:

The Temple's Furnishings
Verses 1-22

Bronze altar: ~30ft long X 30ft wide X 15ft high (20 cubits X 20 cubits X 10 cubits)

the Sea: made of cast metal, circular in shape
             ~15ft in diameter X 7 1/2ft high (10 cubits X 5 cubits)
             below the rim were figures of bulls, 10 per ~1 1/2 ft (1 cubit); cast in 2 rows in 1 piece with the Sea
             stood on 12 bulls; 3 facing each direction, outwardly
             ~3" (a handbreath) thick
             rim shaped like a cup, similar to a lily blossom
             held ~17,500gal (3,000 baths) [ = about 1 average-sized swimming pool]
             placed in the southeast corner of the temple
             used by the priests for washing

5 for the North side and 5 for the South side of each: basins to rinse the items for the burnt offerings, gold lampstands, and tables

100 gold sprinkling bowls

The courtyard of the priests, the large court, and the doors of the court were overlaid with bronze.

Pots, shovels, sprinkling bowls

Huram-Abi finished the work assigned to him, including the 2 pillars, the 2 capitals, the 2 sets of network, 400 pomegranates for the network; the stands & basins; the Sea & bulls; the pots, shovels, meat forks, etc.  He made all items out of polished bronze.  Solomon had them cast in clay molds in the plain of the Jordan between Succoth and Zarethan.  (Can you imagine having a whole plain as your studio?)

They used more bronze than could be weighed.  Solomon made all of the temple furnishings: the golden altar; the table for the bread of the Presence; the lampstands of pure gold, with their lamps, to burn in front of the inner sanctuary, as prescribed; the gold floral work, lamps, and tongs of solid gold; the pure gold wick trimmers, sprinkling bowls, dishes, and censers; the gold doors for the Most Holy Place and for the main hall.

Lori's Thoughts:

I told you the Sea was magnificent!  I wonder if the bulls were cows or elephants?  Originally, I thought cows, but I recently learned that elephants are referred to as bulls (thanks to Water for Elephants, by Sara Gruen).  Let's say elephants, because it seems more extravagant.

So, why is it important that we know all of these details for the old temple?  It is a reflection of the splendor of heaven.  If God inspired humans to design this amazing place on earth, imagine what He has prepared for us, in heaven.  Jesus said, "Do not let your hearts be troubled.  Trust in God; trust also in me.  In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you.  I am going there to prepare a place for you.  And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.  You know the way to the place where I am going." (John 14: 1-4)

Wednesday, April 13, 2011

Revelation 15 (NIV)

Summary:

Seven Angels With Seven Plagues
Verses 1-8

John saw another great sign: 7 angels with the 7 last plagues, which will complete God's wrath.  He saw a sea of glass mixed with fire, and next to it stood the victorious over the beast, his image, and the number of his name.  They were given harps by God, and they sang the song of God's servant Moses and of the Lamb.

"Great and marvelous are your deeds,
Lord God Almighty.
Just and true are your ways,
King of the ages.
Who will not fear you, O Lord,
and bring glory to your name?
For you alone are holy.
All nations will come
and worship before you,
for your righteous acts have been revealed."
(Verses 3b-4)

John saw the tabernacle of the Testimony, that is, the temple in heaven, opened.  The 7 angels came out, dressed in clean, shining linen, with golden sashes around their chests.  One of the 4 living creatures gave them the 7 bowls filled with the wrath of God, the One who lives forever.  The temple was filled with the smoke of God's glory and power.  No one could enter the temple until the 7 plagues were completed.

Lori's Thoughts:

I had been wondering if we'd be in heaven before the last trumpet was sounded.  The answer is no.  We will need to endure while the devil acts out his false reign.  Those of us that endure will get to stand next to a sea of glass and fire.  I wonder if it symbolizes purity and tribulation.  That is, we will go through fire, metaphorically, but come out untainted, by God's grace.  I keep thinking about Swarovski - the elegantly crafted glass figurines.  They're beautiful.  They had to get heated and molded first.  That's what God does with us - molds us into beautiful creatures.

I read the song of Moses and of the Lamb with human eyes, at first.  I thought the song was antiquated.  I read it again with the Spirit, and I see that it is a beautiful exaltation of our great God.  He deserves so much more than what I have to offer.  But, He wants me, anyway.

I think we will have to witness God's final punishment.  I know it won't be pleasant.  At that point, we will have done everything to bring people to Christ.  Those that choose to reject Him must be destroyed.  They don't want to spend eternity with Him.  This makes me sad.  God is love.  Who doesn't want to be loved?  I don't think there's an answer to this, right now.

I wonder if the temple is the gateway to heaven.  I look forward to walking through it.  No more sorrow or pain.  Rest from this weary land.  Sounds really nice.

Tuesday, April 12, 2011

II Chronicles 3 (NIV)

Summary:

Solomon Builds the Temple
Verses 1-17

Where:  Mount Moriah in Jerusalem; where God had appeared to David on the threshing floor of Araunah the Jebusite

When:  Day 2, Month 2, Year 4 of his reign

How
- Foundation  ~90ft long X 30ft wide (60 cubits X 20 cubits)
- Portico (~ Porch)  ~ 30ft wide X 30ft high (20 cubits X 20 cubits)
- Interior - overlaid with pure gold; main hall paneled with pine, covered in fine gold; decorated with palm trees and chain designs
              - temple adorned with precious stones & gold of Parvaim
              - overlaid ceiling beams, door frames, walls, and doors with gold
              - carved cherubim on the walls
- Most Holy Place  ~ 30ft long X 30ft wide (20 cubits X 20 cubits)
              - overlaid the interior with ~ 23 tons (600 talents) of fine gold
              - gold nails ~ 1 1/4 lbs (50 shekels) each
              - overlaid upper parts with gold
              - cherubim: overlaid with gold; wingspan ~30ft (20 cubits); one wing ~7 1/2 ft (5 cubits); outer wings touched the temple walls, inner wings touched each other; stood on their feet, facing the main hall
              - curtain: blue, purple, crimson yarn; fine linen; interwoven cherubim
- 2 Pillars in Front of Temple  ~ 52ft high (35 cubits) [combined height?]
              - capital on top of each pillar ~ 7 1/2 ft high (5 cubits)
              - interwoven chains on top, with 100 pomegranates attached to the chains
              - one on the South side named Jakin (~ "he establishes")
              - one on the North side named Boaz (~ "in him is strength")

Lori's Thoughts:

When David had incurred the wrath of God and the angel of death was stopped at Araunah's threshing floor - David bought this place and dedicated it to God, re-establishing their covenant.  So, it is appropriate that Solomon would build the temple here.

Have you ever seen the movie "the Holiday", with Kate Winslet and Cameron Diaz, where they switch houses for two weeks?  There's a scene where Kate first enters Cameron's gated mansion.  She spends the next 5 minutes running from room to room, jumping and screaming in reaction to the extravagance of the place.  I imagine that is how we would react to this intricately and luxuriously designed temple that Solomon built.

For example, the curtain that separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place had to be at least 30 feet high.  I cross-stitch.  My biggest and most elaborate piece is about 1 1/2 ft X 2 1/2 ft.  It took me 2 1/2 years to complete it.  Granted, this wasn't my full-time job.  Had it been, it probably would have taken me 6 months.  By that measure, it would have taken me 7 years to do the cherubim on the curtain.

I love the idea of the chains with pomegranates.  They're like charm bracelets for the pillars.  And the cherubim!  Wow!  I used to think that they were about 1 foot tall, covering the tabernacle.  When they say watching over the Most Holy Place, they mean it!  These statues were probably as tall as the inside of the temple.  And their wingspan is more than that of 3 eagles combined!  I hope God lets me see it in His archives.

Monday, April 11, 2011

Revelation 14 (NIV)

Summary:

The Lamb and the 144,000
Verses 1-5

John saw the Lamb before him, standing on Mount Zion.  The 144,000 were with Him, those with His Name and His Father's Name written on their foreheads.  He heard a sound from heaven like the roar of rushing waters, a loud peal of thunder, and the sound of harps being played.  The 144,000 sang a new song before the throne, the living creatures, and the elders.  No one could learn it except those who had been redeemed from the earth, who had not defiled themselves with women, who had kept pure, who always followed the Lamb, were purchesed from mankind and offered to God and the Lamb.  No lie was found in them; they are blameless.

The Three Angels
Verses 6-13

John saw an angel flying in midair.  He had the eternal gospel to proclaim to everyone on earth.  He called out that we should fear and give glory to God, because the judgment hour has come.  We are to worship the Creator.  A second angel called out that Babylon had fallen.  Babylon the Great had made all nations drink "the maddening wine of her adulteries" (Verse 8b).

The third angel called out that, if anyone worships the beast, his image, and receives his mark, they will drink of the wine of God's fury, which has been poured out full strength into the cup of His wrath.  They will be tormented with burning sulfur in the presence of the holy angels and the Lamb.  The smoke of their torment rises forever.  There will be no rest for these people.

The saints who obey God's commands and remain faithful to Jesus must be patient and endure.

A loud voice from heaven told John to write that the dead who die in the Lord from now on are blessed.  The Spirit said that they will rest from their labor and their deeds will follow them.

The Harvest of the Earth
Verses 14-20

John saw a white cloud before him, with one like the Son of Man seated on it.  He had a crown of gold and a sharp sickle in His hand.  An angel came out of the temple and called out to Him - to reap with the sickle, because the time to reap had come and the harvest was ripe.  So, the Son of Man reaped with His sickle.

Another angel came out of the temple, with a sharp sickle.  An angel in charge of fire came from the altar and told the previous angel to gather the clusters of grapes from the earth's vine, because its grapes were ripe.  This angel swung his sickle, gathered the grapes, and threw them into the great winepress of God's wrath.  They will be trampled in the winepress outside the city and blood will flow out.  The blood will rise as high as horses' bridles for 1,600 stadia (~180 miles).

Lori's Thoughts:

Who are the 144,000?  They can't be everyone that will go to heaven, because they mention that others will die for Christ later.

This new song seems beautiful.  Stop and imagine - rushing water.  Not a brook, but an ocean wave crashing through some tall rocks.  Then, thunder.  Now, harps. . . . I love it!

Only the pure will learn this new song.  It seems as if these 144,000 never sinned.  Are they like Elijah, who was taken to heaven before he could die on earth, or are they sinless because they are covered by the blood of the Lamb?

. . .

The Three Angels' Proclamations:
1. Worship God because judgment has come.
2. That which deceives mankind has fallen.
3. Those that devote themselves to anyone but God will be destroyed.

Those of us who hold on to Christ will be given rest.  Even if we die in this world, we are blessed because we are His and will receive eternal life.

The people of the earth will be harvested.  First, the children of God will be taken by the Son of Man, that is, Jesus Christ.  Second, the rebellious will be harvested for destruction.

I do not need to fear, for I choose to lead a life of love.  Love taught to me by no human I've encountered.  I will also live in awareness that there is a great deceiver trying to bring us down with him.  I will not give him a foothold, God help me.  I will hold onto the arms of the One who loves me more than I will ever deserve.  You can too.  His arms are big enough.

Friday, April 8, 2011

II Chronicles 2 (NIV)

Summary:

Preparations for Building the Temple
Verses 1-18

Solomon gave orders to build a temple for the Name of the Lord and for a royal palace for himself.  He took a census of the foreigners in Israel, giving these people assignments to keep them working.  He conscripted 70,000 men as carriers; 80,000 men as stonecutters; and 3,600 men as their supervisors.

Solomon sent a message to Hiram king of Tyre.  Hiram had sent cedar to David for building his palace, and now, Solomon was about to build a temple for God.  At this temple, he would burn fragrant incense for God, set out the consecrated bread regularly, and make burnt offerings every morning, evening, Sabbath, New Moon, and appointed feast.  This would be a lasting ordinance for Israel.  The temple would be great, because God is greater than any other god.  Solomon asked who was he to build a temple for God, when even the highest heavens couldn't contain Him.

This was Solomon's request to Hiram:
- a man skilled to work in gold & silver, bronze & iron, purple, crimson, & blue yarn, and experienced in engraving
- cedar, pine, algum (possibly juniper) logs from Lebanon (Tyre had skilled woodcutters)
- Solomon would send his men to help with the lumber
- payment - 20,000 cors (~ 1 million gallons) of ground wheat; 20,000 cors of barley; 20,000 baths (~115,000 gallons) of wine; 20,000 baths of olive oil

Hiram's response: the Lord loves Israel, so he made Solomon their king.  He praised God, the Creator of heaven and earth, for giving David a wise, intelligent, and discerning son, who would build God a temple and a palace for himself.  He was sending them Huram-Abi, a highly skilled artist, whose mother was from Dan and whose father was from Tyre (his ethnicity was a combo of Israelite & Tyrite).  Huram-Abi could work with all of the items Solomon had listed (a jack-of-all-arts, if you will).  Hiram asked Solomon to send the payment, and he would send the logs from Lebanon on rafts by sea down to Joppa for Solomon to take them to Jerusalem.

Lori's Thoughts:

Of all the art projects ever undertaken, I think this was greatest, hands down!  Of all the people to delve into this project wholeheartedly, Solomon was it!  David was a man after God's own heart.  He dedicated his son Solomon to also live for and love the Lord.  You can tell by how intricately detailed this magnificent temple turned out to be.  I encourage you to read I Kings, Chapters 6 & 7.  This construction was incredible!  (My favorite is the Sea.)

I wish I could have been there to witness this construction project.  Imagine lodes and lodes of timber riding down the sea on rafts!  I'm sure you've been impressed by vast numbers of ships in movies like the latest Robin Hood.  And imagine the sweet, sweet smell of hundreds of cedar logs floating down.  Now, I know Solomon was smart enough to practice sustainability and plant more trees after cutting them down.

If my siblings and I were working with them, I imagine I'd be working with the yarn to make some cool designs, my brother would be an engraver, my younger sister would paint, and my youngest sister would insist on being a lumberjack (lumberjane?).  Anway, it would have been awesome to be there.  Who says serving God isn't fun?!

Thursday, April 7, 2011

Revelation 13 (NIV)

Summary:

Verse 1a

"And the dragon stood on the shore of the sea."

The Beast Out of the Sea
Verses 1b-10

John saw a beast come out of the sea.  This beast had 10 horns, 7 heads, and 10 crowns on his horns.  Each head had a blasphemous name.  The beast was like a leopard, with feet like a bear, and a mouth like a lion.  He was given power, the throne, and great authority from the dragon.  One of the heads seemed to have had a fatal wound, but it had been healed.  The whole world was astonished and followed the beast.

Men worshiped the dragon, because he had given authority to the beast.  They worshiped the beast, claiming that no one was like him and that no one could wage war against him.  The beast was given a mouth to utter proud words and blasphemies, as well as the ability to exercise authority for 42 months (3 1/2 years).  The beast will blaspheme God, slandering His Name, dwelling place, and those that live in heaven.  The beast will be given the power to make war against the saints and conquer them.  He will have authority over every tribe, people, language, and nation.  All the earth's inhabitants will worship the beast, that is, those whose names are not written in the book of life that belongs to the Lamb that was slain, which had been the plan since creation.

"He who has an ear, let him hear.  If anyone is to go into captivity, into captivity he will go.  If anyone is to be killed with the sword, with the sword he will be killed.  This calls for patient endurance and faithfulness on the part of the saints."  (Verses 9-10)

The Beast Out of the Earth
Verses 11-18

John saw a beast come out of the earth.  It had 2 horns like that of a lamb and spoke like a dragon.  He exercised the authority of the 1st beast, on his behalf and made the earth and its inhabitants worship the 1st beast, whose fatal wound was healed.  The 2nd beast performed miracles - even fire came down from heaven, in everyone's full view, thus, deceiving the earth's inhabitants.  He ordered the people to set up an image in honor of the 1st beast, who had been wounded by the sword, yet lived.  The 2nd beast was given power to give breath to this image, so that it could speak.  The 2nd beast caused all who refused to worship the image to be killed.  He forced everyone, small and great, rich and poor, free and slave to receive a mark on his right hand or forehead.  No one will be able to buy or sell without this mark.  The mark is the name of the beast or the number of his name.

"This calls for wisdom.  If anyone has insight, let him calculate the number of the beast, for it is man's number.  His number is 666."  (Verse 18)

Lori's Thoughts:

**Disclaimer: I am human, so I do not claim authority on the interpretation of this chapter.  Take God's word above mine.  Do not take the following as law.**

The first verse is so poetic.  I'm thinking of the Voyage of the Dawn Treader, the last Chronicles of Narnia film, with Eustace as a dragon, standing on the remote beach.  Well, the dragon in Revelation is malevolent, but those who trust in the Almighty need not fear.

So, the devil will conjure up two beasts - one from the sea and one from the land.  Maybe one is a foreigner and the other is native.  I'm assuming these beasts to be political leaders, who legislate who and how we worship.  If the devil is trying to create a one world government (see the bold print under Verses 1b-10), as Adolf Hitler tried to create a one ethnic world, maybe this is why the 1st beast has 1 body with 7 heads.  Maybe the 7 heads are the 7 continents.  All continents will be merged under one government body.

There are 10 horns.  7 = 1.  There are 3 extra horns...why?

One of the heads seemed to have received a fatal wound, but it was healed.  Asia?  More specifically, Japan?  Or is it Africa?...  Either way, those that have not been sealed by God will be deceived and pledge themselves to this beast.  This leader empowered by Satan.  This beast will verbally defy God and persecute His people.  We who are His must endure and not lose hope when some of us are imprisoned or killed.

I wonder if the 2nd beast resembles a lamb because he will try to deceive people that he is a Christian.  But, his words are like that of a dragon.  We will know he is not of Christ because of what he says.  This is why we must test the spirits of everyone, before we believe them, as it says in I John 4: 1-6.  The 1st beast will give the 2nd beast power and authority.  The 2nd beast will force people to worship the 1st beast.  The 2nd beast can perform miracles, like bringing fire down from heave, as God did for Elijah, and causing the idol of the 1st beast to speak.  But, unlike Elijah, this beast's power comes from Satan not God.  So, bear in mind that not all miracles come from God.  Know His voice and know whom people serve.

The 2nd beast will kill those who refuse to worship the image.  This reminds me of King Nebuchadnezzar's idol,  and Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego refusing to worship the idol.  They were thrown into a furnace, but were saved by God.  However, it is God's choice to save us from harm in the end times.  Whether we die for Christ or endure for Christ, we will be with Him in paradise, after the world ends, for eternity.

When it comes time for the mark of the beast, which will override any economic transactions, do not be deceived, but, remember this verse:  "And my God will meet all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus."  (Philippians 4:19)

Wednesday, April 6, 2011

II Chronicles 1 (NIV)

Summary:

Solomon Asks for Wisdom
Verses 1-17

Solomon, son of David, established himself firmly in his kingdom, for God was with him and made him exceedingly great.  Solomon addressed all of Israel - the commanders of thousands and hundreds, the judges, leaders, and heads of families.  They all went to the high place at Gibeon, where God's Tent of Meeting was located.  Moses, God's servant, had built it there in the desert.  David had brought up the ark from Kiriath Jearim and pitched a tent for it in Jerusalem.  Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, had made the bronze altar in Gibeon, in front of the Lord's tabernacle.  Solomon and the assembly inquired of God there.  Solomon offered 1,000 burnt offerings to God on the altar.

That night, God appeared to Solomon and told him to ask for whatever he wanted.  Solomon said that God had been kind to him and his father, making them king.  Solomon asked for God's promise to David to be confirmed.  God had made Solomon king of a people as numerous as the dust of the earth.  He asked for wisdom and knowledge to lead God's people Israel.  God told Saul that he had not asked for wealth, riches, honor, death for his enemies, or a long life.  Since Solomon's heart's desire was wisdom and knowledge, God would give him these as well as wealth, riches, and honor, more than any king before or after him.

Solomon went to Jerusalem and reigned over Israel.  He accumulated 1,400 chariots and 12,000 horses, which he kept in chariot cities as well as Jerusalem.  Solomon made silver and gold as common as stones and cedar as plentiful as sycamore-fig trees in the foothills.  The horses were imported from Eypyt and Kue.  Kue was where the royal merchants bought their horses.  They also imported an Egyptian chariot for 600 shekels (~15lbs) of silver and a horse for 150 shekels (~3 3/4lbs) of silver.  They exported their goods to all the kings of the Hittites and Arameans.

Lori's Thoughts:

When Solomon made his sacrifice of 1,000 burnt offerings, I imagine he did so out of humility and immense gratitude.  God had already greatly blessed him, so he must have been overflowing with love for God.  God knows our hearts.  If Solomon had made this great sacrifice out of pride or a desire to intimidate onlookers, I don't think God would have offered Solomon a blank check.

Here's the thing, if Solomon had asked for wealth, God would have given it to him.  If he had asked for battle success and glory, God would have given them to him.  Anything he would have asked, God would have given it to him.  I think any human would ask for materials, health, or fame.  But, Solomon's soul was in touch with the Holy Spirit.  When he made the sacrifices, his thoughts were on God.  When he made his prayer request, his thoughts were on everyone else, that is, his people.  (Do you remember the two commandments I wrote about yesterday?)  When God blessed, His thougths were on Solomon.

I thought David overflowed with wealth.  Well, God blessed Solomon all the more.  I told you He wants us to prosper.

Do you believe He'll do the same for you?

Tuesday, April 5, 2011

Revelation 12 (NIV)

Summary:

The Woman and the Dragon
Verses 1-17

John saw a wondrous sign appear in heaven.  A woman appeared, clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet, and with a crown of 12 stars on her head.  She was pregnant and cried out in pain, as if about to give birth.  An enormous red dragon, with 7 heads, 10 horns, and 7 crowns on its heads appeared.  Its tail swept 1/3 of the stars from the sky and flung them to earth.  The dragon stood in front of the woman to devour her child as soon as He was born.  She gave birth to a son, who will rule the nations with an iron scepter.  The child was snatched up to God and to His throne.  The woman fled to the desert, to the place prepared for her, by God, where she will be cared for 1,260 days.

There was war in heaven.  Michael and His angels vs. the dragon and his angels.  "But he was not strong enough, and they lost their place in heaven.  The great dragon was hurled down - that ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, who leads the whole world astray.  He was hurled to the earth, and his angels with him."  (Verses 8-9)

John heard a loud voice in heaven anounce: salvation, power, the kingdom of our God, and the authority of Christ have now come.  "For the accuser of our brothers, who accuses them before our God day and night, has been hurled down."  (Verse 10b)  "They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death."  (Verse 11)  Therefore, those who dwell in heaven should rejoice, but woe to the earth and the sea, because the devil is down there.  He is furious because he knows his time is short.

The dragon, once on earth, pursued the woman.  The woman was given the two wings of a great eagle, so that she could fly to her haven in the desert, being cared for a time, times, and half a time.  She will be out of the serpent's reach.  The serpent will spew out if his mouth water like a river to sweep her away.  The earth will help her by opening its mouth and swallowing the river.  The dragon was enraged at the woman and left to make war against the rest of her offspring.  Her offspring are those that obey God's commandments and hold to the testimony of Jesus.

Lori's Thoughts:

The woman is Mary, mother of Jesus Christ.  The devil tried to kill Jesus through King Herod, but God sent a message to Joseph, Jesus' adopted father, to warn him of Herod's plot to kill this future king.  The dragon took 1/3 of the stars out when thrown out of heaven.  The dragon is the devil and the stars are angels.  The devil deceived 1/3 of God's angels, so you better believe he is capable of deceiving humans.  Since he failed to get Jesus, he turned on the vessel that brought Him to earth.  He failed to get her as well, so he turned on the rest of her children.  That is, symbolic children - those who share with what Christ taught.

God gave us the tools to overcome deception.  We are covered, symbolically, by Christ's blood.  Christ paid our entrance fee to heaven.  The devil doesn't want us to know this.  And he goes to heaven to try and deceive God by telling Him that we're sinners and, by default, cannot go to heaven.  We can only enter if we accept that only Christ is worthy and He wants to share eternity with us.  God provided a way for Mary to escape the jaws of the devil.  Not only escape, but receive everything she needed.  You can be sure He'll do the same for her offspring (that is, you).

God wants us to obey His commandments:
1) Love God
2) Love All Others
*see Matthew 22:37-38
And, He wants us to accept Christ's sacrifice for us.  It's simple.

Remember, the devil was not strong enough to defeat Christ.  If you're on His side, the devil is not strong enough to beat you either, because Christ has got you covered.  :)

Monday, April 4, 2011

I Chronicles 29 (NIV)

Summary:

Gifts for Building the Temple
Verses 1-9

King David told the assembly that his son, Solomon, whom God had chosen, was young and inexperienced.  He had been given the great task of building a palatial structure for God.  David had provided, in great quantity, the following supplies: gold, silver, bronze, iron, wood, onyx, turquoise, various colored stones, various fine stones, and marble.  David now offered above what was needed: 3,000 talents (~110 tons) of gold of Ophir; and 7,000 talents (~260 tons) of refined silver for the overlayings of the walls, for the gold and silver work, and for the craftsmen's work. 

David asked if anyone was willing to dedicate themself to God that day.  The leaders of the families, tribe officers, commanders of thousands and hundreds, and officials in charge of the king's work willingly gave: 5,000 talents and 10,000 darics (~190 tons and 185 lbs) of gold; 10,000 talents (~375 tons) of silver; 18,000 talents (~675 tons) of bronze; and 100,000 (~3,750 tons) of iron.  They also gave precious stones for the temple treasury, in the custody of Jehiel the Gershonite.

King David and the people rejoiced at the willing response of their leaders, because they had given freely and wholeheartedly to the Lord.

David's Prayer
Verses 10-20

David praised God in the assembly's presence.  He acknowledged Him as their God, attributing to Him greatness, power, glory, majesty, and splendor.  He acknowledged Him as the owner of everything in heaven and earth.  The kingdom belonged to God for He is above all.  He provides wealth and honor.  He is the ruler of all things.  In His hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all.  David thanked and praised his glorious name, on behalf of himself and his people.

David claimed that all the gifts given had come from God.  God's people were returning some of what He had provided.  They were strangers in God's sight, for their days were like shadows without hope.  (I think David is saying that we are nothing compared to God.)  God tests our hearts and is pleased with integrity.  He has seen with joy how willingly His people had given that day.  David asked for God to keep that desire and loyalty to God in the people's hearts forever.  He asked for God to give Solomon wholehearted devotion, obedience to God's commands, and the ability to build the palatial structure.  David told the assembly to praise God.  They bowed low and fell prostrate (on their faces) before the Lord and the king.

Solomon Acknowledged as King
Verses 21-25

The next day, the people sacrificed to God:  1,000 bulls; 1,000 rams; 1,000 male lambs; drink offerings; and other sacrifices in abundance.  They ate and drank, with great joy, in God's presence.  They acknowledged Solomons as king, for a second time.  They anointed him as king and Zadok as priest before the Lord.  Solomon took the throne and prospered.  The Israelites obeyed him.  All the officers, mighty men, and David's sons pledged submission to Solomon.  The Lord exalted and gave Solomon splendor over any king before him.

The Death of David
Verses 26-30

David ruled for 40 years: 7 years in Hebron, 33 in Jerusalem.  He died at a good old age and had enjoyed a long life, wealth, and honor.  His other events are written in the records of Samuel the seer, Nathan the prophet, and Gad the seer.  This includes the circumstances that surrounded him, Israel, and the kingdoms of the other lands.

Lori's Thoughts:

Without God, things become tainted.  King David was wealthier than anything I have ever experienced or witnessed.  But, he was not arrogant or greedy, as most wealthy people tend to become, when they do not have God as their Lord.  David was right when he said that their gift already belonged to God.  God is the Creator and our Provider.  What He desires is a willing heart and mind, more than things. 

We should imitate David in his generosity, as well as in his praise for God.  We need to tell God what He means to us.  Not that He doesn't already know who He is, but we need to be reminded of who He is.  God also enjoys being loved and praised as well as loving and praising us.  He loved Solomon by call Himself his Father, and He exalted Solomon by making him the greatest king to date.

We should also pray for each other, that we will not lose our desire for God or our willingness to give Him everything - our possessions and our devotion.  What will God give us in return?  He gave David a long life, wealth, and honor.  He wants us to prosper as well.  I'm only 26, barely making ends meet, and without a lofty position.  But, I have never been destitute and I overflow with peace and joy.  I am rich.  I am blessed.

Don't compare what you have to what others have.  Stop looking around.  Look up.  Trust that He will give you everything you need.  If He sees fit, He will give you more.  If not, He is still good, holy, and perfect.