Summary:
The Sign of Jonah
Verses 38-45
Some of the Pharisees and teachers of the law asked Jesus, calling Him 'Teacher', for a miracle. Jesus replied:
- Only wicked and adulterous people ask for a miraculous sign.
- None will be given, except for the sign of the prophet Jonah. He was in the belly of a huge fish, for 3 days and 3 nights.
- The Son of Man will be in the heart of the earth for 3 days and 3 nights.
- Ninevah will stand up on judgment day and condemn the current Israelite generation, because they repented at Jonah's preaching.
- One greater than Jonah was now here.
- The Queen of the South will rise at the judgment and condemn the current generation. She came from the ends of the earth to listen to Solomon's wisdom.
- One greater than Solomon was here.
- When an evil spirit comes out of a man, it wanders through arid places, finding no rest. It returns to its former house, finding it unoccupied, clean, and orderly. It finds 7 other, more wicked, spirits and they go live there. The man's final condition is worse than before.
- This is how it will be with this current wicked generation.
Lori's Thoughts:
Were the Pharisees not paying attention?! Jesus healed a man's withered hand and cast out demons so another man could see and speak. Did they not hear of the miracles Jesus performed with multitudes? Were they asking for a personal miracle so they could have faith once they had proof? Faith is belief in the unseen.
Jonah rebelled against God and ran away from his assignment. He feared the Ninevites and fled. God had him swallowed and he became a changed man in 3 days. The Pharisees were unwilling to change and accept their need for a Savior. So, on Judgment Day, Jonah's faith will expose their stubborness and unbelief.
The Queen of Sheba traveled far because of the stories she'd heard of the wisest and richest king on earth. She desired to learn from him and brought him gifts for his time. She left with more gifts than she'd arrived with. So will it be when we come to the wisest and richest King in existence. The Pharisees, although in His presence on a more regular basis, hated the Messiah. On Judgment Day, the faith of the Queen of the South will expose their arrogance and legalism ("salvation" by works).
Even if people repent and stop sinning, if they are not filled with the Holy Spirit, they will be inhabited by evil spirits. Don't let this happen to you. You cannot make it to heaven without God. You do not need to be perfect first to receive Him. Look at Jonah. Look at the apostle Paul. Look at David! The murderer whom God still called a man after His own heart, because He repented and earnestly sought to do God's will.
Rituals alone are meaningless. The Pharisees were perfect in obedience of the law. But their hearts, their spirits, were not in it. They did not fear or love God or others. So, really, they missed the point of the Ten Commandments.
Don't be like them. Let your heart be His home.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IeWVSCilAeg
This is a song by Jeremy Horn, called "The Only God Who Saves". I thought it'd be appropriate for today's topic.
Summary...
Jesus' Mother and Brothers
Verses 46-50
While speaking to the crowd, His mother and brothers stood outside, waiting to speak with Him. Someone told Jesus that they were waiting. Jesus asked who His mother and brothers were. He pointed to His disciples and said that they were His mother and brothers. Whoever does the will of His Father is His brother, sister, and mother.
Lori's Thoughts...
Jesus was not rejecting His earthly family. He was embracing us into His heavenly one! He loved His earthly family. When He was dying on the cross, He made sure someone would take good care of His mother. (See John 19:26-27)
When we accept God as our Master and we do His will (love Him and love people), we are a part of Christ's family. We belong. And, He wants us. Not just tolerates us. He longs for us. Remember, we are His Creation. Sin separated us from our heavenly Father. He is doing absolutely everything to bring us back. Even allowing His own Son to die for our sins! If that's not humbling, I don't know what is.
Thank you, Lord Jesus, for not giving up on me or those reading this now.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Matthew 12: Part II - Jesus and Beelzebub (NIV)
Summary:
Jesus and Beelzebub
Verses 22-37
They brought Jesus a demon-possessed man who was blind and mute. Jesus healed him and he could see and talk. The people were amazed and asked if this could be the Son of David.
The Pharisees heard this and claimed that Jesus drove out demons by Beelzebub, the prince of demons. Jesus knew their thoughts and responded:
- A kingdom divided against itself will fall.
- If Satan drives out Satan, he is divided; how can his kingdom stand?
- If Jesus drives demons out by Beelzebub, then by whom do the Pharisees drive demons out? They will be your judges.
- If He drives out demons by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God has come upon you.
- How can anyone enter a strong man's house to rob him, without first tying him up?
- Those not with Him are against Him. Those that don't gather with Him will scatter.
"And so I tell you, every sin and blasphemy will be forgiven men, but the blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven. Anyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but anyone who speaks against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven, either in this age or in the age to come." (Verses 31-32)
- If a tree is made good, its fruit will be good. If it's made bad, so will its fruit be bad. A tree is recognized by its fruit.
Jesus called the Pharisees a brood of vipers. He asked how they, who were evil, could say anything good. The mouth speaks from the overflow of the heart. A good man produces good from what he has stored up in himself. A bad man produces bad from what he has stored. Men will give an account on judgment day for the careless words they spoke. You will be acquitted or condemned by your words.
Lori's Thoughts:
The devil had a stronghold on the man Jesus healed. Maybe a demon was sent to keep this man from talking about Jesus. Maybe a demon was sent to keep him from seeking Jesus or seeing His miracles. If we have not received the Holy Spirit and allowed Him to purge sin from us, then the devil can by all means put strongholds on us to make it difficult to accept Jesus.
If you have accepted Jesus as your Savior, then you have the ability to cast out demons by His Name. But, the demons will bring more demons and stronger demons to work harder to bring you down. If you don't fill up the spaces they've left with the Holy Spirit, they will succeed. So, make sure you accept Jesus as your Master as well. Serve Him and stop sinning. Keep sinning and you serve Satan.
Those that don't know Jesus and speak against Him, those friends of mine claiming to be atheist or agnostic, will be forgiven. They have not yet come to really know Christ. Those that have met Christ, spiritually, but deny the Holy Spirit, will be condemned. It's not the non-believers we should worry about in this situation. It is the Christians. I believe the devil works harder against you once you accept Christ. So, if you are not fully committed, God legally cannot block Satan from having a stronghold against you. However, you cannot be saved without accepting Jesus. This first step must be taken.
Jesus tells us to carry each others' burdens. We must pray for each other to stand against the flaming arrows of the evil one.
If the eyes are the window to the soul, then your words are a reflection of your heart. If you speak words of hope and of life, so is your heart full of hope and life. In fact, it overflows with the fruit of the Spirit. If you speak words of doubt and condemnation, with such things is your heart filled.
Give your heart to Jesus. Yes, the devil will attack you, but One greater than the devil will protect you, if you completely surrender to Him.
Jesus and Beelzebub
Verses 22-37
They brought Jesus a demon-possessed man who was blind and mute. Jesus healed him and he could see and talk. The people were amazed and asked if this could be the Son of David.
The Pharisees heard this and claimed that Jesus drove out demons by Beelzebub, the prince of demons. Jesus knew their thoughts and responded:
- A kingdom divided against itself will fall.
- If Satan drives out Satan, he is divided; how can his kingdom stand?
- If Jesus drives demons out by Beelzebub, then by whom do the Pharisees drive demons out? They will be your judges.
- If He drives out demons by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God has come upon you.
- How can anyone enter a strong man's house to rob him, without first tying him up?
- Those not with Him are against Him. Those that don't gather with Him will scatter.
"And so I tell you, every sin and blasphemy will be forgiven men, but the blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven. Anyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but anyone who speaks against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven, either in this age or in the age to come." (Verses 31-32)
- If a tree is made good, its fruit will be good. If it's made bad, so will its fruit be bad. A tree is recognized by its fruit.
Jesus called the Pharisees a brood of vipers. He asked how they, who were evil, could say anything good. The mouth speaks from the overflow of the heart. A good man produces good from what he has stored up in himself. A bad man produces bad from what he has stored. Men will give an account on judgment day for the careless words they spoke. You will be acquitted or condemned by your words.
Lori's Thoughts:
The devil had a stronghold on the man Jesus healed. Maybe a demon was sent to keep this man from talking about Jesus. Maybe a demon was sent to keep him from seeking Jesus or seeing His miracles. If we have not received the Holy Spirit and allowed Him to purge sin from us, then the devil can by all means put strongholds on us to make it difficult to accept Jesus.
If you have accepted Jesus as your Savior, then you have the ability to cast out demons by His Name. But, the demons will bring more demons and stronger demons to work harder to bring you down. If you don't fill up the spaces they've left with the Holy Spirit, they will succeed. So, make sure you accept Jesus as your Master as well. Serve Him and stop sinning. Keep sinning and you serve Satan.
Those that don't know Jesus and speak against Him, those friends of mine claiming to be atheist or agnostic, will be forgiven. They have not yet come to really know Christ. Those that have met Christ, spiritually, but deny the Holy Spirit, will be condemned. It's not the non-believers we should worry about in this situation. It is the Christians. I believe the devil works harder against you once you accept Christ. So, if you are not fully committed, God legally cannot block Satan from having a stronghold against you. However, you cannot be saved without accepting Jesus. This first step must be taken.
Jesus tells us to carry each others' burdens. We must pray for each other to stand against the flaming arrows of the evil one.
If the eyes are the window to the soul, then your words are a reflection of your heart. If you speak words of hope and of life, so is your heart full of hope and life. In fact, it overflows with the fruit of the Spirit. If you speak words of doubt and condemnation, with such things is your heart filled.
Give your heart to Jesus. Yes, the devil will attack you, but One greater than the devil will protect you, if you completely surrender to Him.
Monday, June 20, 2011
Matthew 12: Part I - Lord of the Sabbath (NIV)
Summary:
Lord of the Sabbath
Verses 1-14
Jesus and His disciples went through grainfields on the Sabbath. The disciples were hungry and picked the heads of grain to eat. The Pharisees saw this and accused them of breaking the Sabbath law. Jesus replied by referencing the Old Testament:
- David and his companions were hungry. They entered God's house and ate the consecrated bread, which only the priests were allowed to do.
- In the Law, the priests desecrate the Sabbath, but are innocent.
Jesus said, One that is greater than the temple is here. If they understood the saying, " 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice, ' " (Hosea 6:6; verse 7b) then they would not have condemned the innocent. The Son of Man is the Lord of the Sabbath.
Jesus then went to the synagogue. There was a man with a shriveled hand. Wanting to accuse Jesus, they asked if it was lawful to heal on the Sabbath. Jesus asked if they would save their sheep if it fell into a pit on the Sabbath. A man is worth more than a sheep, so, yes, it is lawful to heal on the Sabbath. Jesus then told the man to stretch out his hand and he did so. The Pharisees left and plotted to kill Jesus.
God's Chosen Servant
Verses 15-21
Knowing the Pharisees' scheme, Jesus left. Many followed Him and He healed all of their sick, warning them not to reveal His identity. This fulfilled the prophecy in Isaiah 42:1-4 -
" 'Here is my servant whom I have chosen, the one I love, in whom I delight; I will put my Spirit on him, and he will proclaim justice to the nations. He will not quarrel or cry out; no one will hear his voice in the streets. A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out, till he leads justice to victory. In his name, the nations will put their hope.' " (Verses 18-21)
Lori's Thoughts:
The purpose of the Law is to show a sinful generation how to live without sin. In the light of the Law, our inadequacy in righteousness is revealed. Jesus came to show us how to live connected to the Law-maker. We can be more than just obedient servants. We can be providers and healers through God's power.
The devil does what he can to remove Jesus from our lives. He wants to tear God's children away from Him, because he's vindictive about his sentence. He also tears God away from us to make us believe that God is unneeded or absent. The devil is a liar.
Although religious leaders, believing themselves to be more righteous than Christ, allowed themselves to be swayed by Satan, Jesus was not deterred from His mission. Jesus knew He would die eventually, but not that day. He healed all who came to Him; He did not hide. He told His followers to keep His identity hidden to help Him continue in His ministry by delaying interference.
Jesus did not condemn the Pharisees. He gave everyone, including those with the smallest bit of faith, a chance to grow in faith.
He is patient, just, and He gives us hope. I want some.
Lord of the Sabbath
Verses 1-14
Jesus and His disciples went through grainfields on the Sabbath. The disciples were hungry and picked the heads of grain to eat. The Pharisees saw this and accused them of breaking the Sabbath law. Jesus replied by referencing the Old Testament:
- David and his companions were hungry. They entered God's house and ate the consecrated bread, which only the priests were allowed to do.
- In the Law, the priests desecrate the Sabbath, but are innocent.
Jesus said, One that is greater than the temple is here. If they understood the saying, " 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice, ' " (Hosea 6:6; verse 7b) then they would not have condemned the innocent. The Son of Man is the Lord of the Sabbath.
Jesus then went to the synagogue. There was a man with a shriveled hand. Wanting to accuse Jesus, they asked if it was lawful to heal on the Sabbath. Jesus asked if they would save their sheep if it fell into a pit on the Sabbath. A man is worth more than a sheep, so, yes, it is lawful to heal on the Sabbath. Jesus then told the man to stretch out his hand and he did so. The Pharisees left and plotted to kill Jesus.
God's Chosen Servant
Verses 15-21
Knowing the Pharisees' scheme, Jesus left. Many followed Him and He healed all of their sick, warning them not to reveal His identity. This fulfilled the prophecy in Isaiah 42:1-4 -
" 'Here is my servant whom I have chosen, the one I love, in whom I delight; I will put my Spirit on him, and he will proclaim justice to the nations. He will not quarrel or cry out; no one will hear his voice in the streets. A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out, till he leads justice to victory. In his name, the nations will put their hope.' " (Verses 18-21)
Lori's Thoughts:
The purpose of the Law is to show a sinful generation how to live without sin. In the light of the Law, our inadequacy in righteousness is revealed. Jesus came to show us how to live connected to the Law-maker. We can be more than just obedient servants. We can be providers and healers through God's power.
The devil does what he can to remove Jesus from our lives. He wants to tear God's children away from Him, because he's vindictive about his sentence. He also tears God away from us to make us believe that God is unneeded or absent. The devil is a liar.
Although religious leaders, believing themselves to be more righteous than Christ, allowed themselves to be swayed by Satan, Jesus was not deterred from His mission. Jesus knew He would die eventually, but not that day. He healed all who came to Him; He did not hide. He told His followers to keep His identity hidden to help Him continue in His ministry by delaying interference.
Jesus did not condemn the Pharisees. He gave everyone, including those with the smallest bit of faith, a chance to grow in faith.
He is patient, just, and He gives us hope. I want some.
Friday, June 17, 2011
II Chronicles 23 - Athaliah & Joash (NIV)
Summary:
Athaliah and Joash
Verses 1-21
(From chapter 22: Athaliah had been in power for 6 years, while Joash was hidden in the Lord's temple.)
In the 7th year, Jehoiada the priest and uncle of Joash showed his strength. He made a covenant with the commanders of units of a hundred: Azariah son of Jeroham, Ishmael son of Jehohanan, Azariah son of Adaiah, and Elishaphat son of Zicri. They all went to unite the Levites from Judah and the heads of the Israelite families from all other towns and went to Jerusalem. All of them made a covenant with the king at the Lord's temple.
Jehoiada spoke to the people. Joash would reign as God had promised, in regards to David's descendants. 1/3 of the priests and Levites going on duty on the Sabbath would keep watch at the doors. 1/3 of them would be stationed at the royal palace and another 1/3 at the Foundation Gate. All other men would be in the courtyards of the Lord's temple. No one was to enter the temple, except the priests and Levites on duty, because they were consecrated. Levites were to station around the king, with their weapons, and kill those that entered. They were to stay close to the king.
Everyone did as Jehoiada had ordered. Those on and off duty went to work. Jehoiada gave the spears, large and small shields, that had been David's and were placed in God's temple, to the commanders. They were stationed around the king near the altar and temple, from the south to the north sides of the temple.
Jehoiada and his sons brought Joash out and crowned him. They presented him with a copy of the covenant and proclaimed him king. They anointed him and shouted, " 'Long live the king!' " (Verse 11b) Athaliah heard the noise and went to investigate. All the people, including the trumpeters, were rejoicing and playing music, in praise. Athaliah tore her robe and shouted, " 'Treason! Treason!' " (Verse 13b) Jehoiada sent the commanders and told them to take her outside, killing anyone that followed her. They were not to kill her in the temple. So, they took her to the Horse Gate, at the palace grounds, and put her to death.
Jehoiada, the king, and the people made a covenant to be God's people. They tore down the temple of Baal. They smashed the altars and idols, killing Mattan, the priest of Baal, in front of the altars. Jehoiada placed the Levite priests, whom David had assigned to the temple, in charge. They were to present the burnt offerings, according to the Law of Moses, with rejoicing and singing, as David had instructed. He stationed doorkeepers at the gates of the Lord's temple, so no unclean person could enter.
The commanders, nobles, and rulers brought the king from the temple to the palace, through the Upper Gate. They seated him on the throne and everyone rejoiced. The city was quiet, because Athaliah had been slain by the sword.
Lori's Thoughts:
I knew God had something incredible planned! A few people is all it took. A few loyal to the Creator rose up and fought for their faith. They reclaimed themselves as His chosen people. They united Israel, not just Judah.
Living for God is not for the idle or weak. If we stand, we build up our faith. If we move, we act out in faith. We defend ourselves and His people. We take the offensive against God's enemies. But, we do nothing without the direct instructions from God. To hear Him clearly, we must be that closely connected to Him.
Everyone had a job to do to make this revolution possible and successful.
"Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it. And in the church, God has appointed first of all apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then workers of miracles, also those having gifts of healing, those able to help others, those with gifts of administration, and those speaking in different kinds of tongues." (I Corinthians 12:27-28)
You have a purpose, a special gift! You are being prepared for something amazing! Join in the revolution to revive the spirits of people. Show them Christ through your actions and in your life. Prepare their hearts to accept Him. He still knocks.
Let's all go Home!!!
Athaliah and Joash
Verses 1-21
(From chapter 22: Athaliah had been in power for 6 years, while Joash was hidden in the Lord's temple.)
In the 7th year, Jehoiada the priest and uncle of Joash showed his strength. He made a covenant with the commanders of units of a hundred: Azariah son of Jeroham, Ishmael son of Jehohanan, Azariah son of Adaiah, and Elishaphat son of Zicri. They all went to unite the Levites from Judah and the heads of the Israelite families from all other towns and went to Jerusalem. All of them made a covenant with the king at the Lord's temple.
Jehoiada spoke to the people. Joash would reign as God had promised, in regards to David's descendants. 1/3 of the priests and Levites going on duty on the Sabbath would keep watch at the doors. 1/3 of them would be stationed at the royal palace and another 1/3 at the Foundation Gate. All other men would be in the courtyards of the Lord's temple. No one was to enter the temple, except the priests and Levites on duty, because they were consecrated. Levites were to station around the king, with their weapons, and kill those that entered. They were to stay close to the king.
Everyone did as Jehoiada had ordered. Those on and off duty went to work. Jehoiada gave the spears, large and small shields, that had been David's and were placed in God's temple, to the commanders. They were stationed around the king near the altar and temple, from the south to the north sides of the temple.
Jehoiada and his sons brought Joash out and crowned him. They presented him with a copy of the covenant and proclaimed him king. They anointed him and shouted, " 'Long live the king!' " (Verse 11b) Athaliah heard the noise and went to investigate. All the people, including the trumpeters, were rejoicing and playing music, in praise. Athaliah tore her robe and shouted, " 'Treason! Treason!' " (Verse 13b) Jehoiada sent the commanders and told them to take her outside, killing anyone that followed her. They were not to kill her in the temple. So, they took her to the Horse Gate, at the palace grounds, and put her to death.
Jehoiada, the king, and the people made a covenant to be God's people. They tore down the temple of Baal. They smashed the altars and idols, killing Mattan, the priest of Baal, in front of the altars. Jehoiada placed the Levite priests, whom David had assigned to the temple, in charge. They were to present the burnt offerings, according to the Law of Moses, with rejoicing and singing, as David had instructed. He stationed doorkeepers at the gates of the Lord's temple, so no unclean person could enter.
The commanders, nobles, and rulers brought the king from the temple to the palace, through the Upper Gate. They seated him on the throne and everyone rejoiced. The city was quiet, because Athaliah had been slain by the sword.
Lori's Thoughts:
I knew God had something incredible planned! A few people is all it took. A few loyal to the Creator rose up and fought for their faith. They reclaimed themselves as His chosen people. They united Israel, not just Judah.
Living for God is not for the idle or weak. If we stand, we build up our faith. If we move, we act out in faith. We defend ourselves and His people. We take the offensive against God's enemies. But, we do nothing without the direct instructions from God. To hear Him clearly, we must be that closely connected to Him.
Everyone had a job to do to make this revolution possible and successful.
"Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it. And in the church, God has appointed first of all apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then workers of miracles, also those having gifts of healing, those able to help others, those with gifts of administration, and those speaking in different kinds of tongues." (I Corinthians 12:27-28)
You have a purpose, a special gift! You are being prepared for something amazing! Join in the revolution to revive the spirits of people. Show them Christ through your actions and in your life. Prepare their hearts to accept Him. He still knocks.
Let's all go Home!!!
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Matthew 11: Part II - Woe on Unrepentant Cities (NIV)
Summary:
Woe on Unrepentant Cities
Verses 20-24
Jesus denounced the cities where most of His miracles had been performed, because they did not repent.
- Korazin & Bethsaida - if the miracles had been done in Tyre & Sidon, they would have repented a long time ago, with sackcloth and ashes. It will be more bearable for the latter cities on Judgment Day.
- Capernaum - will go down to the depths, not up to the skies. If the miracles had been performed in Sodom, it would have still been around today. It will be more bearable for Sodom on Judgment Day.
Rest for the Weary
Verses 25-30
Jesus praised His Father, the Lord of heaven and earth, because it was His pleasure to reveal these things to little children, not to the wise and educated. God committed all things to Christ. Only the Father knows the Son and only the Son knows the Father, except those that the Son chooses to reveal Him to.
" 'Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.' " (Verses 28-30)
Lori's Thoughts:
People literally touched by the Savior accepted the physical healing, but rejected the spiritual healing. The first is ephemeral and superficial. The second is eternal and deep.
Have you ever had "friends" that only come to you when they need something? But, when you need something or when you want to hang out, they're nowhere to be found? This is the story of my life in high school. Well, a similar thing happened with Jesus. He healed nations, but only a few accepted spiritual cleansing through a relationship with Him. This makes me sad. To me, life is meaningless without God. My life without God is dark. It's not even life. It's depression, low self-esteem, no ambition save for survival, no trust or hope or love. With God, I have peace in all situations, I know He will never leave me destitute, we speak to each other and I am comforted, because I am held. How can anyone not want that?!? It's incomprehensible to me!
We can never earn God's approval. He freely gives. If His wisdom was given to philosophers and doctors, they would think it's because they were worthy or intelligent enough. God turns things upside-down. He teaches the open and simple-minded.
Are you tired? Are you lost? Are you anxious or depressed? Are you ready to quit? Don't. Collapse into Christ's arms. His reward is rest, gentleness and humility towards you. You will be refined by His fire and renewed in your spirit to live in His light and move by His power. Try Jesus, today.
Woe on Unrepentant Cities
Verses 20-24
Jesus denounced the cities where most of His miracles had been performed, because they did not repent.
- Korazin & Bethsaida - if the miracles had been done in Tyre & Sidon, they would have repented a long time ago, with sackcloth and ashes. It will be more bearable for the latter cities on Judgment Day.
- Capernaum - will go down to the depths, not up to the skies. If the miracles had been performed in Sodom, it would have still been around today. It will be more bearable for Sodom on Judgment Day.
Rest for the Weary
Verses 25-30
Jesus praised His Father, the Lord of heaven and earth, because it was His pleasure to reveal these things to little children, not to the wise and educated. God committed all things to Christ. Only the Father knows the Son and only the Son knows the Father, except those that the Son chooses to reveal Him to.
" 'Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.' " (Verses 28-30)
Lori's Thoughts:
People literally touched by the Savior accepted the physical healing, but rejected the spiritual healing. The first is ephemeral and superficial. The second is eternal and deep.
Have you ever had "friends" that only come to you when they need something? But, when you need something or when you want to hang out, they're nowhere to be found? This is the story of my life in high school. Well, a similar thing happened with Jesus. He healed nations, but only a few accepted spiritual cleansing through a relationship with Him. This makes me sad. To me, life is meaningless without God. My life without God is dark. It's not even life. It's depression, low self-esteem, no ambition save for survival, no trust or hope or love. With God, I have peace in all situations, I know He will never leave me destitute, we speak to each other and I am comforted, because I am held. How can anyone not want that?!? It's incomprehensible to me!
We can never earn God's approval. He freely gives. If His wisdom was given to philosophers and doctors, they would think it's because they were worthy or intelligent enough. God turns things upside-down. He teaches the open and simple-minded.
Are you tired? Are you lost? Are you anxious or depressed? Are you ready to quit? Don't. Collapse into Christ's arms. His reward is rest, gentleness and humility towards you. You will be refined by His fire and renewed in your spirit to live in His light and move by His power. Try Jesus, today.
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Matthew II: Part I - Jesus and John the Baptist (NIV)
Summary:
Jesus and John the Baptist
Verses 1-19
After Jesus instructed the Twelve, He went to preach in the towns of Galilee. John the Baptist was in prison and heard what Christ was doing. He sent his disciples to ask Him if He was the one to come or if they should expect someone else. Jesus responded that the blind see, the lame walk, those with leprosy are cured, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is preached to the poor. Those that do not fall away on His account are blessed.
When John's disciples started to leave, Jesus spoke to the crowd. He asked if they had gone to the desert to see a reed swayed by the wind or a finely dressed man or a prophet. He told them that John was more than a prophet. Malachi 3:1 prophesies about him " 'I will send my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way before you.' " (Verse 10b) Jesus said that no one was greater than John, yet the least in the kingdom of heaven was greater than John. Ever since John started preaching, the kingdom of heaven was forcefully advancing and forceful men grabbed onto it. The Law and the Prophets prophesied until John came. Jesus called John the Elijah that was to come. "He who has ears, let him hear." (Verse 15)
Jesus compared their generation like children sitting in the marketplaces and calling out that they played the flute, but he didn't dance and they sang a dirge, but he didn't mourn. John did not come eating and drinking, so the people said he had a demon. The Son of Man came eating and drinking, so the people called Him a glutton, a drunkard, and a friend of tax collectors and 'sinners'. "But wisdom is proved right by her actions." (Verse 19b)
Lori's Thoughts:
Maybe John was discouraged in prison. Maybe he wondered if he'd see the prophecies God gave him fulfilled. He probably knew that he would soon die, so he decided to investigate. It's good that his followers ministered to him in prison to help set John's heart at ease, despite the reputation they would undoubtedly receive for being friends with a prisoner.
Jesus gave John hope. However, Jesus did not visit John in prison. Why? To help John's faith. Faith is what we hope for in things unseen. Jesus could have come and said, yes, I'm the One you've been waiting for. Would that be proof? Jesus' actions, words, and miracles are the indicators that God did walk this earth. If He "proved" Himself to every doubter, no one would do the work that it takes to gain a relationship with God. And it starts with faith.
I'm sure John was heartened by Jesus' message. His prophecy was fulfilled and his goal accomplished: preparing the way for Jesus. I believe they mean spiritually. John preached in the desert for people to give up sin and prepare for the coming of the Lord. Those that had faith and took John's advice were more accepting of Jesus and His message. Now, this message is not for lazy people. People that take the initiative and do not hesitate, those that actively seek God in their lives, are the ones that hold onto the kingdom of heaven.
Jesus compared John to Elijah the prophet. What a major compliment. Elijah was infused with the Holy Spirit. When Jesus said that no man was greater than John, but the least in heaven was greater, I believe He meant that we should look to heaven and not earth for our hope. God can use anyone for His work. But, the power is from Him. Do not look to anyone else for salvation, no matter how great they are on earth.
Unfortunately, the people rejected John because he fasted and did not join in their revelry. To earnestly seek God, we must do as John did. There is a time for everything, but if we do not subject ourselves to God and go through sanctification, we will miss out on the celebration with Christ.
Now, Christ feasted while on earth, but the people still rejected Him. That's because He shows us that we're sinners. People would rather party now than wait for heaven. All I can say is that it will be a short party in comparison.
You will know whom people serve by their actions. I choose to seek God first and obey Him. Guess what? I still get to have fun. I just work hard to receive a renewed spirit from God as well.
Jesus and John the Baptist
Verses 1-19
After Jesus instructed the Twelve, He went to preach in the towns of Galilee. John the Baptist was in prison and heard what Christ was doing. He sent his disciples to ask Him if He was the one to come or if they should expect someone else. Jesus responded that the blind see, the lame walk, those with leprosy are cured, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is preached to the poor. Those that do not fall away on His account are blessed.
When John's disciples started to leave, Jesus spoke to the crowd. He asked if they had gone to the desert to see a reed swayed by the wind or a finely dressed man or a prophet. He told them that John was more than a prophet. Malachi 3:1 prophesies about him " 'I will send my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way before you.' " (Verse 10b) Jesus said that no one was greater than John, yet the least in the kingdom of heaven was greater than John. Ever since John started preaching, the kingdom of heaven was forcefully advancing and forceful men grabbed onto it. The Law and the Prophets prophesied until John came. Jesus called John the Elijah that was to come. "He who has ears, let him hear." (Verse 15)
Jesus compared their generation like children sitting in the marketplaces and calling out that they played the flute, but he didn't dance and they sang a dirge, but he didn't mourn. John did not come eating and drinking, so the people said he had a demon. The Son of Man came eating and drinking, so the people called Him a glutton, a drunkard, and a friend of tax collectors and 'sinners'. "But wisdom is proved right by her actions." (Verse 19b)
Lori's Thoughts:
Maybe John was discouraged in prison. Maybe he wondered if he'd see the prophecies God gave him fulfilled. He probably knew that he would soon die, so he decided to investigate. It's good that his followers ministered to him in prison to help set John's heart at ease, despite the reputation they would undoubtedly receive for being friends with a prisoner.
Jesus gave John hope. However, Jesus did not visit John in prison. Why? To help John's faith. Faith is what we hope for in things unseen. Jesus could have come and said, yes, I'm the One you've been waiting for. Would that be proof? Jesus' actions, words, and miracles are the indicators that God did walk this earth. If He "proved" Himself to every doubter, no one would do the work that it takes to gain a relationship with God. And it starts with faith.
I'm sure John was heartened by Jesus' message. His prophecy was fulfilled and his goal accomplished: preparing the way for Jesus. I believe they mean spiritually. John preached in the desert for people to give up sin and prepare for the coming of the Lord. Those that had faith and took John's advice were more accepting of Jesus and His message. Now, this message is not for lazy people. People that take the initiative and do not hesitate, those that actively seek God in their lives, are the ones that hold onto the kingdom of heaven.
Jesus compared John to Elijah the prophet. What a major compliment. Elijah was infused with the Holy Spirit. When Jesus said that no man was greater than John, but the least in heaven was greater, I believe He meant that we should look to heaven and not earth for our hope. God can use anyone for His work. But, the power is from Him. Do not look to anyone else for salvation, no matter how great they are on earth.
Unfortunately, the people rejected John because he fasted and did not join in their revelry. To earnestly seek God, we must do as John did. There is a time for everything, but if we do not subject ourselves to God and go through sanctification, we will miss out on the celebration with Christ.
Now, Christ feasted while on earth, but the people still rejected Him. That's because He shows us that we're sinners. People would rather party now than wait for heaven. All I can say is that it will be a short party in comparison.
You will know whom people serve by their actions. I choose to seek God first and obey Him. Guess what? I still get to have fun. I just work hard to receive a renewed spirit from God as well.
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
II Chronicles 22 - Ahaziah King of Judah (NIV)
Summary:
Ahaziah King of Judah
Verses 1-9
The people of Jerusalem made Ahaziah, the youngest son of Jehoram, king of Judah. The Arabs had killed all the older sons. He was 22 years old when he became king. He reigned for 1 year. His mother was Athaliah, granddaughter of Omri. He did evil in God's eyes, encouraged by his mother to follow the ways of Ahab. Ahab's house became his advisers which led to his demise.
Ahaziah went with Joram, the son of Ahab king of Israel, to war with Hazael king of Aram at Ramoth Gilead. The Arameans wounded Joram who went back to Jezreel to recover. Ahaziah visited Joram and God brought about his downfall. They both went down to meet Jehu son of Nimshi, whom God had anointed to destroy Ahab's house. While executing judgment of Ahab's house, Jehu saw the princes of Judah and the sons of Ahaziah's relatives who were attending Ahaziah. Jehu killed them, then he went out after Ahaziah. Jehu's men captured him when he was hiding in Samaria. They brought him to Jehu and put him to death. They buried him because he was a son of Jehoshaphat, who sought after God's heart. No one in Ahaziah's house was strong enough to retain the kingdom.
Athaliah and Joash
Verses 10-12
Athaliah, Ahaziah's mother, saw that he was dead. She then proceeded to destroy the royal family of Judah's house. Jehosheba, the daughter of King Jehoram, wife of the priest Jehoiada, and sister to Ahaziah took Joash, Ahaziah's son, and hid him and his nurse in a bedroom. She did this because his brothers were about to be murdered. Joash remained hidden in the temple of God for 6 years while Athaliah ruled.
Lori's Thoughts:
This story is a good example of the influence others can have on us. In yesterday's entry, we discussed how a student is like his teacher and a servant is like his master. The head of the household was now Athaliah, Ahaziah's mother. She was bent on destroying Judah's line.
However, amidst all this destruction of God's people, forces of good were at work. I'm sure the devil was working to cut off Judah's line, because Jesus is the Lion of Judah. Satan was messing with the Master's plan. But, God cannot be deceived. He had Jehu tear down the stronghold that was Ahab's family, who had so malinfluenced (a word I just made up) God's people. Unfortunately, some from Judah's line were so corrupt that they received the same judgment.
Satan moved Athaliah to remove any future kings of Judah. God moved Jehosheba to protect the line. I bet her marriage to the priest Jehoiada helped her to be connected to God and His will. Although evil reigned for six years, I bet Joash, whom Jehosheba had protected, was being prepared in God's temple to restore Judah back in their faith and covenant with God.
As Christians, we must be willing to act and fight if God tells us to. The war between good and evil continuously rages. Satan still tries to conquer God's children. He will succeed unless we are rooted in God.
Now, sometimes it may seem that evil has won. We may be led to believe that God is absent. Have a little faith. He may be working in secret, preparing someone to be a great leader, while slowly, but surely, demolishing evil.
God is working for the good of those that love Him (see Romans 8:28). Have a little faith and patience.
Ahaziah King of Judah
Verses 1-9
The people of Jerusalem made Ahaziah, the youngest son of Jehoram, king of Judah. The Arabs had killed all the older sons. He was 22 years old when he became king. He reigned for 1 year. His mother was Athaliah, granddaughter of Omri. He did evil in God's eyes, encouraged by his mother to follow the ways of Ahab. Ahab's house became his advisers which led to his demise.
Ahaziah went with Joram, the son of Ahab king of Israel, to war with Hazael king of Aram at Ramoth Gilead. The Arameans wounded Joram who went back to Jezreel to recover. Ahaziah visited Joram and God brought about his downfall. They both went down to meet Jehu son of Nimshi, whom God had anointed to destroy Ahab's house. While executing judgment of Ahab's house, Jehu saw the princes of Judah and the sons of Ahaziah's relatives who were attending Ahaziah. Jehu killed them, then he went out after Ahaziah. Jehu's men captured him when he was hiding in Samaria. They brought him to Jehu and put him to death. They buried him because he was a son of Jehoshaphat, who sought after God's heart. No one in Ahaziah's house was strong enough to retain the kingdom.
Athaliah and Joash
Verses 10-12
Athaliah, Ahaziah's mother, saw that he was dead. She then proceeded to destroy the royal family of Judah's house. Jehosheba, the daughter of King Jehoram, wife of the priest Jehoiada, and sister to Ahaziah took Joash, Ahaziah's son, and hid him and his nurse in a bedroom. She did this because his brothers were about to be murdered. Joash remained hidden in the temple of God for 6 years while Athaliah ruled.
Lori's Thoughts:
This story is a good example of the influence others can have on us. In yesterday's entry, we discussed how a student is like his teacher and a servant is like his master. The head of the household was now Athaliah, Ahaziah's mother. She was bent on destroying Judah's line.
However, amidst all this destruction of God's people, forces of good were at work. I'm sure the devil was working to cut off Judah's line, because Jesus is the Lion of Judah. Satan was messing with the Master's plan. But, God cannot be deceived. He had Jehu tear down the stronghold that was Ahab's family, who had so malinfluenced (a word I just made up) God's people. Unfortunately, some from Judah's line were so corrupt that they received the same judgment.
Satan moved Athaliah to remove any future kings of Judah. God moved Jehosheba to protect the line. I bet her marriage to the priest Jehoiada helped her to be connected to God and His will. Although evil reigned for six years, I bet Joash, whom Jehosheba had protected, was being prepared in God's temple to restore Judah back in their faith and covenant with God.
As Christians, we must be willing to act and fight if God tells us to. The war between good and evil continuously rages. Satan still tries to conquer God's children. He will succeed unless we are rooted in God.
Now, sometimes it may seem that evil has won. We may be led to believe that God is absent. Have a little faith. He may be working in secret, preparing someone to be a great leader, while slowly, but surely, demolishing evil.
God is working for the good of those that love Him (see Romans 8:28). Have a little faith and patience.
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