Week 1: Pure Offerings and a Closed Temple

This week, 2012 will draw to a close. If you've diligently stuck with the reading plan: Congratulations on finishing the Bible in One Year! We hope you enjoyed the weekly blog posts as well as enjoy the satisfaction that comes from reading through the entire Bible. Not many people have done that, and you are blessed you have had the opportunity and willpower to do it. If you've got side-tracked and didn't finish the Bible in one year... No worries! You can finish where you left off last year, or take a fresh start this week.

In 2013 we will continue the reading plan we did last year, with one section from the Old Testament, one from the New Testament, one Psalm, and one section from Proverbs. This provides a nice balance of different scripture readings each day.

This week's Bible reading plan is as follows (2 more days to close out this year):

• Sunday: Malachi 1:1-2:17, Revelation 21:1-27, Psalm 149:1-9, Proverbs 31:10-24
• Monday: Malachi 3:1-4:6, Revelation 22:1-21, Psalm 150:1-6, Proverbs 31:25-31
• Tuesday: Genesis 1:1-2:25, Matthew 1:1-2:12, Psalm 1:1-6, Proverbs 1:1-6
• Wednesday: Genesis 3:1-4:26, Matthew 2:13-3:6, Psalm 2:1-12, Proverbs 1:7-9
• Thursday: Genesis 5:1-7:24, Matthew 3:7-4:11, Psalm 3:1-8, Proverbs 1:10-1
• Friday: Genesis 8:1-10:32, Matthew 4:12-25, Psalm 4:1-8, Proverbs 1:20-23
• Saturday: Genesis 11:1-13:4, Matthew 5:1-26, Psalm 5:1-12, Proverbs 1:24-28

Our S.O.A.P. this week is from a passage from Malachi, the last book in the Old Testament, as well as from Revelation, the last book in the New Testament:

Scripture:
Malachi 1:

10 "Oh, that one of you would shut the temple doors, so that you would not light useless fires on my altar! I am not pleased with you," says the LORD Almighty, "and I will accept no offering from your hands. 11 My name will be great among the nations, from where the sun rises to where it sets. In every place incense and pure offerings will be brought to me, because my name will be great among the nations," says the LORD Almighty.

Revelation 21:

22 I did not see a temple in the city, because the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple. 23 The city does not need the sun or the moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and the Lamb is its lamp. 24 The nations will walk by its light, and the kings of the earth will bring their splendor into it.

Observation:
In the opening chapter of Malachi, the LORD is very upset with his children, the people of Israel. They call him 'father' and 'master', but they don't honor him like a son would honor his father, or a servant would honor his master (verse 6). The priests offer mediocre sacrifices (v. 7 & 8), but they pretend to do the right thing. That is what makes God really upset, and why he shows his righteous anger in verse 10. He tells his children that it is better to shut the temple doors (like closing the church), than to pretend everything is going well.

Then, in the next verse, God is looking into the future, beyond the current situation. He sees a multitude of nations honoring his name, and bringing pure offerings in every place. In a sense, he's looking to the time after Jesus came to earth, and the good news of Jesus Christ was broadcast all over the earth, bringing multitudes of people into fellowship with God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. It's a time of reconciliation between God and his people. This includes the time we live in as well.

Application:
Even though God's name is honored all over the earth in our times, and Jesus showed us the way of reconciliation, when I take an honest look at my life and the life of the church, there is a lot that God could be upset about as well. And perhaps he is at times. I'm upset with myself at times, when I know I'm not honoring my Heavenly Father and bring him mediocre sacrifices. There's a lot that can be improved, and that's why there's also the book of Revelation. In Revelation 21, we see the final final picture of reconciliation.

In these verses, we see that the temple is closed for good. Actually... there no longer is any temple, because God himself and the Lamb (=Jesus) are its temple! There is no need for sunlight or moonlight, as the glory of the Father and the Son provide the light. But just like Malachi 1:11, we do see the nations bringing their splendor and pure offerings to the LORD. Worship will continue, but no longer in an imperfect way. All our worship will be pure and holy, and honoring of the One who is worthy of all glory, honor, and power.

As we embark on a new year, more than ever, I do want to make an effort to bring pure worship to Him who saved my life from eternal death and who gave me life everlasting.

Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, Son and Holy Spirit, we worship and adore you. Thank you for another year that you have given us. A year full of blessings, but also full of pain and struggles. You hold it all in your hand, and we look toward you to guide us in the new year. We look forward to your second coming, Lord Jesus, when all things will be made new, and even our worship will take on a new purity. Help us and guide us we pray. In your name. Amen.

I hope you will continue to read the Bible on a daily basis. There is no better thing than to daily sit at the feet of our Lord and let Him teach us.

Have a blessed week and a blessed New Year.

Dick

24 To him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy-- 25 to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen. [Jude 24,25]

Week 52: "By My Spirit"

This week's Bible reading plan is as follows:

• Sunday: Zechariah 4:1-5:11; Revelation 14:1-20; Psalm 142:1-7; Proverbs 30:21-23
• Monday: Zechariah 6:1-7:14; Revelation 15:1-8; Psalm 143:1-12; Proverbs 30:24-28
• Tuesday: Zechariah 8:1-23; Revelation 16:1-21; Psalm 144:1-15; Proverbs 30:29-31
• Wednesday: Zechariah 9:1-17; Revelation 17:1-18; Psalm 145:1-21; Proverbs 30:32
• Thursday: Zechariah 10:1-11:17; Revelation 18:1-24; Psalm 146:1-10; Proverbs 30:33
• Friday: Zechariah 12:1-13:9; Revelation 19:1-21; Psalm 147:1-20; Proverbs 31:1-7
• Saturday: Zechariah 14:1-21; Revelation 20:1-15; Psalm 148:1-14; Proverbs 31:8-9

Our S.O.A.P. this week is from the book of Zechariah: 

Scripture: Zechariah 4:6
"Then he said to me, 'This is what the Lord says to Zerubbabel: It is not by force nor by strength, but by my Spirit, says the Lord of Heaven's Armies.'"

Observation:
In the context of this passage, the Lord is assuring Zechariah that he will fulfill his promise to rebuild the Temple. But this was not to be accomplished by human ingenuity or effort; it would be accomplished by God's Spirit.

This is one of the most oft-quoted Old Testament verses because of the underlying principle: namely, the principle that God accomplishes everything he promises through his Spirit; not by human wit or strength. This universal truth brings a lot of comfort! It relieves us of the burden of fulfilling God's will in our lives and in the world by means of our own strength or will power.

God uses us to be sure, but he accomplishes his purposes with us, not because of us. In other words, to the extent that we are willing and able, God lets us participate with him in the realization of his divine purposes in the world. He uses us to the fullest extent possible, but his ultimate will is not thwarted if and when we fail. In fact, God sometimes uses our failures to accomplish his will!

Application:
The practical implications of this passage are profound. When we internalize the truth of this passage, we can, with the Psalmist, be still and know (experientially) that God is God (see Psalm 46:10).

I came across a sermon recently whose title captures perfectly the point I'm trying to make: "The Gospel Depends on a God Who does not Depend on You."

Some preach a very toxic gospel, which says, in essence, that God's purposes in the world, including the salvation of people's souls, depend on us...and that when we drop the ball or miss the mark, God's will goes unrealized. But God's word strikes a very careful balance between the existence of human "free will" and God's "sovereign will." In God's economy, both types of "will" fully exist without impinging on each other. How precisely this is the case is a matter of a much longer theological discussion.

For now, suffice it to say that the Christmas story is nothing less than the Gospel – the "Good News" of fulfilled promise in which God accomplishes for us what we could not accomplish for ourselves so that from here on out we would depend not on our own effort or ability but on the finished work of Christ. Because of him, and in light of our imperfect-yet-willing selves, we are the glad and happy recipients of the greatest gift known to humankind: the gift of everlasting life!

"Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God!
"How unsearchable his judgments,
"and his paths beyond tracing out!" (Romans 11:33)

Prayer:
O Lord, thank you for accomplishing for us what we could never have accomplished for ourselves. Amid all the glitter and clutter of this "holiday," which for many is anything but the "Holy Day" it deserves to be, please awaken us by your Spirit and enable us to feast on the truth of your Incarnation: "God is born; God is born indeed!" Amen.

Have a blessed Christmas!

Faithfully,
Chuck

Week 51: Bethlehem's Hope

This week's Bible reading plan is as follows: 

• Sunday: Micah 5:1-7:20; Revelation 7:1-17; Psalm 135:1-21; Proverbs 30:5-6
• Monday: Nahum 1:1-3:19; Revelation 8:1-13; Psalm 136:1-26; Proverbs 30:7-9
• Tuesday: Habakkuk 1:1-3:19; Revelation 9:1-21; Psalm 137:1-9; Proverbs 30:10
• Wednesday: Zephaniah 1:1-3:20; Revelation 10:1-11; Psalm 138:1-8; Proverbs 30:11-14
• Thursday: Haggai 1:1-2:23; Revelation 11:1-19; Psalm 139:1-24; Proverbs 30:15-16
• Friday: Zechariah 1:1-21; Revelation 12:1-17; Psalm 140:1-13; Proverbs 30:17
• Saturday: Zechariah 2:1-3:10; Revelation 13:1-18; Psalm 141:1-10; Proverbs 30:18-20

Our S.O.A.P. this week is from the book of Micah:

Scripture: Micah 5:2-5
But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah,
are only a small village among all the people of Judah.
Yet a ruler of Israel will come from you,
one whose origins are from the distant past.
The people of Israel will be abandoned to their enemies
until the woman in labor gives birth.
Then at last his fellow countrymen
will return from exile to their own land.
And he will stand to lead his flock with the Lord's strength,
in the majesty of the name of the Lord his God.
Then his people will live there undisturbed,
for he will be highly honored around the world.
And he will be the source of peace.

Observation:
People today equate the word "prophecy" with "prediction." So they are surprised to learn that only about 2 percent of all biblical prophecy is predictive. Most prophecy is proclamatory, which means that it is the proclamation of God's timely message to a situation that is happening at the time. God called prophets mainly to preach to the people in their own day. In fact, that's what Micah was doing. Most of the time in his book, when Micah talked about future events, he was speaking about the judgment that would befall Israel if the people did not repent. His message was about turning to God in repentance right away.

What we see in Micah 5:2-5 is a rare phenomenon in biblical prophecy. This passage is an instance of pure prediction. Verse 2 calls to mind the old Christmas hymn, O Little Town of Bethlehem.

Bethlehem was God's chosen place for the Savior's birth.

In Hebrew the word Bethlehem means literally "house of bread." It was a small city and one of the oldest in Israel. It is first mentioned in Genesis 48:7 as the place where Rachel died. Ruth lived there. It was also King David's home at one point...and Joseph was a descendant of David, which is why he had to go there to register for the census that Augustus Caesar decreed.

But why did God choose Bethlehem as the birthplace of the Messiah? Why not Jerusalem, the most famous city in Israel? We can't say for sure. What we can know, however, is that more than 800 years before Jesus' birth, God predicted through the prophet Micah that the Savior of the world would be born there.

Application:
When one thinks of the circumstances that led to Jesus' birth in Bethlehem, and that his specific birthplace was predicted so long before it happened, one cannot help but be blown away.

It makes us realize that God is in charge of this world in ways that go far beyond our powers of perception. It makes us realize that if God can take the self-serving impulses of a power-hungry Roman emperor and use them for (or at least incorporate them into) his divine plan to bring the King of kings and Lord of lords into the world in a certain place, he can also lead us through the dark and uncertain days brought on by the senseless acts of violence in Clackamas, Oregon, and Newtown, Connecticut.

What Micah's predictive prophecy about Jesus' birth proves, among other things, is that God is in control, even when we are caught off guard by the unthinkable things human beings sometimes do.

The senseless and brutal murders of these people were not part of some "bigger plan" for God to be glorified through incomprehensible suffering. If the story of Jesus' standing at the graveside of his dear friend, Lazarus, proves anything at all about God's feeling towards death, it is that he comes to us in our grief and joins us in our mourning, even though in the end he will vanquish death and wipe every tear from our eyes (Revelation 7:17).

The prediction of Jesus' coming into the world proves that God is not caught off guard by human caprice and malice. And the fact of Jesus’ coming proves that there is life after death and therefore joy and consolation after such incalculable loss. But in the present, there is God with us, Immanuel, sharing in this journey of pain and entering fully into our grief.

Prayer:
O Lord, the One who Is and Was and Is to Come, the Great I Am, we lean into your embrace in this strange and paradoxical period of loss and unrealized hope, knowing that because of your Incarnation Love, we are not alone with our pain. Please be our ever-present Strength in this season of anguish and grief. Tarry with us now in this pain and lead us in the Way Everlasting. We pray in Jesus' name. Amen.

May this last week of Advent bring you hope and peace.

Faithfully, Chuck

Week 50: God's Word: Feast or Famine?

This week's Bible reading plan is as follows:

• Sunday: Joel 1:1-3:21, Revelation 1:1-20, Psalm 128:1-6, Proverbs 29:18
• Monday: Amos 1:1-3:15, Revelation 2:1-17, Psalm 129:1-8, Proverbs 29:19-20
• Tuesday: Amos 4:1-6:14, Revelation 2:18-3:6, Psalm 130:1-8, Proverbs 29:21-22
• Wednesday: Amos 7:1-9:15, Revelation 3:7-22, Psalm 131:1-3, Proverbs 29:23
• Thursday: Obadiah 1:1-21, Revelation 4:1-11, Psalm 132:1-18, Proverbs 29:24-25
• Friday: Jonah 1:1-4-11, Revelation 5:1-14, Psalm 133:1-3, Proverbs 29:26-27
• Saturday: Micah 1:1-4:13, Revelation 6:1-17, Psalm 134:1-3, Proverbs 30:1-4

Our S.O.A.P. this week is from the book of Amos:

 

Scripture: Amos 8:11

    "The time is surely coming," says the Sovereign LORD, "when I will send a famine on the land -- not a famine of bread or water but of hearing the words of the LORD.

Observation:
Through the prophet Amos, the God was warning the people of Israel that there would come a time when the 'words of the LORD' would be scarce. This will be a time when it will be difficult to find a place where you can hear God's word.

Application:
We are fortunate that we can still here the words of the LORD on a weekly basis in church, and on a daily basis by reading the Bible. Even today there are places where Christians are persecuted and/or have to read God's word in secret. There may come a day where the hearing of God's word will be difficult for Christ-followers as well. The book of Revelation that you will start reading this week, talks about that. Let's take advantage of the bounty of God's word we have today!

Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for your word, and the bounty of it we have today. Help us to read it regularly, understand it, and apply it to our lives. In Jesus Name. Amen.

Have a great week feasting on God's word!

In Christ,

Dick

Week 49: Love over Sacrifice

This week's Bible reading plan is as follows:

• Sunday: Daniel 9:1-11:1, 1 John 2:18-3:6, Psalm 121:1-8, Proverbs 28:27-28
• Monday: Daniel 11:2-35, 1 John 3:7-24, Psalm 122:1-9, Proverbs 29:1
• Tuesday: Daniel 11:36-12:13, 1 John 4:1-21, Psalm 123:1-4, Proverbs 29:2-4
• Wednesday: Hosea 1:1-3:5, 1 John 5:1-21, Psalm 124:1-8, Proverbs 29:5-8
• Thursday: Hosea 4:1-5:15, 2 John 1:1-13, Psalm 125:1-5, Proverbs 29:9-11
• Friday: Hosea 6:1-9:17, 3 John 1:1-14, Psalm 126:1-6, Proverbs 29:12-14
• Saturday: Hosea 10:1-14:9, Jude 1:1-25, Psalm 127:1-5, Proverbs 29:15-17

Our S.O.A.P. this week is from the book of Hosea:

Scripture: Hosea 6:6

For I desire mercy, not sacrifice, and acknowledgment of God rather than burnt offerings.

Observation:
Hosea is the first book of a series of 12 books that we call the minor prophets. These prophets are called 'minor prophets', only because the length of these books is rather small compared to the books of the 'major' prophets like Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel and Daniel. I think the verse above (verse 6 of chapter 6) was one of Jesus' favorite Bible verses, as he quoted it on several occasions, see for example Matthew 9:13, or Matthew 12:7. Jesus uses this verse in the context of saving sinners, people who have been written off by the so-called religious leaders. He tells these leaders (and us!) that God is more interested in us being merciful, rather than us being religious by bringing our 'sacrifices'.

Application:
The Hebrew word for mercy (Checed), can also be translated as 'lovingkindness', in other words... 'showing love'. Acknowledgment of God, means 'to know God'. So what Hosea is saying is this: to really know God, means to be merciful, or to show love to those who do not deserve it. There have been enough times in my life when I had a really difficult time with that. Times when I felt all 'self righteous' in condemning others. Rather than being merciful, I was only interested in 'being right' and not showing love where I needed to. This verse is a great reminder that God is only interested in my love for others, not my sacrifices. Our Lord Jesus was an example to us, who showed the real meaning of love. Hebrews 10 verse 5 to 7 (which is a quotation of Psalm 40:6-8) says:

5 Therefore, when Christ came into the world, he said: "Sacrifice and offering you did not desire, but a body you prepared for me; 6 with burnt offerings and sin offerings you were not pleased. 7 Then I said, 'Here I am--it is written about me in the scroll-- I have come to do your will, my God.' "

Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, I pray that you stir my heart and help me to develop an attitude the same that Christ Jesus had. Help me to be more concerned with my love for others, than to be concerned with my 'righteous sacrifices'. In Jesus Name. Amen.

Have a great week. Enjoy the Bible reading. Stick to your plan!

In Christ,

Dick

Week 48

This week's Bible reading plan is as follows:

• Sunday: Daniel 1:1-2:23; 1 Peter 3:8-4:6; Psalm 119:65-80; Proverbs 28:14
• Monday: Daniel 2:24-3:30; 1 Peter 4:7-5:14; Psalm 119:81-96; Proverbs 28:15-16
• Tuesday: Daniel 4:1-37; 2 Peter 1:1-21; Psalm 119:97-112; Proverbs 28:17-18
• Wednesday: Daniel 5:1-31; 2 Peter 2:1-22; Psalm 119:113-128; Proverbs 28:19-20
• Thursday: Daniel 6:1-28; 2 Peter 3:1-18; Psalm 119:129-152; Proverbs 28:21-22
• Friday: Daniel 7:1-28; 1 John 1:1-10; Psalm 119:153-176; Proverbs 28:23-24
• Saturday: Daniel 8:1-27; 1 John 2:1-17; Psalm 120:1-7; Proverbs 28:25-26

Our S.O.A.P. this week is from the book of 1 Peter:

Scripture: 1 Peter 3:15-17
"Instead, you must worship Christ as Lord of your life. And if someone asks about your Christian hope, always be ready to explain it. But do this in a gentle and respectful way. Keep your conscience clear. Then if people speak against you, they will be ashamed when they see what a good life you live because you belong to Christ. Remember, it is better to suffer for doing good, if that is what God wants, than to suffer for doing wrong!"

Observation:
Followers of Jesus Christ are different. They stand out among those who do not know Jesus. This passage calls us as Christ-followers to be transparent yet grace filled about our convictions. Note that when we worship Christ as Lord, people will take notice. Some will ask us about our hope in Jesus. Peter says that when we give our answer, we should to so in a gentle and respectful way.

That last point cannot be stressed enough! Someone once said, "Jesus commands us to let our light shine – but there's a difference between shining and glaring." Being effective witnesses for Jesus is not about winning arguments; it's about winning souls. Remember the old saying: "Convince a man against his will and he is of the same opinion still."

Faithful living always brings critics. There will be those who speak against us because of our faith in Jesus. That's why it is so important to attend to the way we live. One of the biggest criticisms people level against Christians is that they are hypocrites. So the key for us is to make sure that our practice of faith matches our profession of faith. Nobody is perfect, but the more our actions align with our words, the stronger our witness will be to those who are searching for the "real thing."

Application:
At Woodhaven Community Church we talk about worshiping God, loving each other, and serving the world. In a word, we're talking about upreach, inreach, and outreach. We live most effectively when we reach up to God in worship, reach in to one another as a community of faith, and reach out to the world in faithful witness and service. That's what this passage is all about!

It makes a huge difference in our lives when we worship every day through Bible reading, prayer, and discernment. That's the main reason we emphasize the daily devotional practice we call SOAP. When we are engaged in this daily spiritual exercise, we are better equipped to engage an unbelieving world with grace and wisdom. The more consistently we SOAP, the better prepared we are to be Jesus' faithful witnesses in word and deed.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we want to be faithful and effective as your followers. We humbly acknowledge that we cannot do this without your support and guidance. So please help us to orient ourselves in you by beginning each day in worship and adoration...and give us the right words to share when people ask us about our faith in you. We also realize that our words mean very little without the actions that match them, so please help us to be faithful to you in both word and deed, for Jesus' sake. Amen!

Have a great week!

Faithfully,
Chuck

Week 47

This week's Bible reading plan is as follows:

• Sunday: Ezekiel 37:1-38:23; James 1:19-2:17; Psalm 117:1-2; Proverbs 28:1
• Monday: Ezekiel 39:1-40:27; James 2:18-3:18; Psalm 118:1-18; Proverbs 28:2
• Tuesday: Ezekiel 40:28-41:26; James 4:1-17; Psalm 118:19-29; Proverbs 28:3-5
• Wednesday: Ezekiel 42:1-43:27; James 5:1-20; Psalm 119:1-16; Proverbs 28:6-7
• Thursday: Ezekiel 44:1-45:12; 1 Peter 1:1-12; Psalm 119:17-32; Proverbs 28:8-10
• Friday: Ezekiel 45:13-46:24; 1 Peter 1:13-2:10; Psalm 119:33-48; Proverbs 28:11
• Saturday: Ezekiel 47:1-48:35; 1 Peter 2:11-3:7; Psalm 119:49-64; Proverbs 28:12-13

Our S.O.A.P. this week is from the book of Ezekiel:

Scripture: Ezekiel 37:4-6
"Then he said to me, 'Speak a prophetic message to these bones and say, "Dry bones, listen to the word of the Lord! This is what the Sovereign Lord says: Look! I am going to put breath into you and make you live again! I will put flesh and muscles on you and cover you with skin. I will put breath into you, and you will come to life. Then you will know that I am the Lord."'"

Observation:
This is a message of hope and restoration. The dry and scattered bones symbolized God's people that were captives in many foreign lands. The Assyrians invaded the 10 northern tribes more than 150 years before Ezekiel's prophetic ministry. The Assyrian king led the Israelites into captivity, dispersing them throughout his vast kingdom. He then repopulated the land with foreigners, whom he had taken captive from other countries. Then in Ezekiel's more recent past, the Babylonians led the rest of God’s people into captivity. Israel lay in ruins. Only a few of Israel’s poorest were left behind to tend the land. Everything looked hopeless. But what appeared to be dead and gone by all human reckoning was about to come back life! God would bring his people back to life, as it were, restoring them to their land and ultimately bringing Jesus Christ into their midst, who would not only deliver them, but would also bring life to all other peoples.

Application:
We serve a God who can resurrect dry bones in our lives too! As long as we are alive, we have the chance to surrender to Christ and let his Spirit breathe new life into our situation – whatever it may be! We sometimes do an amazing job turning everything in our lives into a valley of dry bones. In other words, we can make a mess of things! But God is in the business of restoration and new life. Today I want to take inventory of my life and ask God bring restoration and new life wherever it is needed.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank you for giving me new life in Jesus Christ! I live only because you brought hope and restoration to me personally. Yet there are dry bones strewn throughout my life that also need your healing breath, mainly because of my own doing! Please, for Jesus' sake, let your healing grace abound! Amen.

Have a great week!






Faithfully,


Chuck

Week 46: A New Way to Convey an Old Message

This week's Bible reading plan is as follows:

• Sunday: Ezekiel 23:1-49, Hebrews 10:18-39, Psalm 109:1-31, Proverbs 27:13
• Monday: Ezekiel 24:1-26:21, Hebrews 11:1-16, Psalm 110:1-7, Proverbs 27:14
• Tuesday: Ezekiel 27:1-28:26, Hebrews 11:17-31, Psalm 111:1-10, Proverbs 27:15-16
• Wednesday: Ezekiel 29:1-30:26, Hebrews 11:32-12:13, Psalm 112:1-10, Proverbs 27:17
• Thursday: Ezekiel 31:1-32:32, Hebrews 12:14-29, Psalm 113:1-114:8, Proverbs 27:18-20
• Friday: Ezekiel 33:1-34:31, Hebrews 13:1-25, Psalm 115:1-18, Proverbs 27:21-22
• Saturday: Ezekiel 35:1-36:38, James 1:1-18, Psalm 116:1-19, Proverbs 27:23-27

Our S.O.A.P. this week is from the book of Hebrews:

Scripture: Hebrews 8:10

But this is the new covenant I will make with the people of Israel on that day, says the Lord: I will put my laws in their minds so they will understand them, and I will write them on their hearts so they will obey them. I will be their God, and they will be my people.

Observation:
This is one of those amazing verses that is a quotation from the Old Testament. We find it in Jeremiah 31:31-34, but also in this week's reading of Ezekiel 36:26-27:

25 "Then I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean. Your filth will be washed away, and you will no longer worship idols. 26 And I will give you a new heart with new and right desires, and I will put a new spirit in you. I will take out your stony heart of sin and give you a new, obedient heart. ^a 27 And I will put my Spirit in you so you will obey my laws and do whatever I command.

God realized that the old covenant fell short: it was based on obedience of the rules (the law), with the intent to give the people life -- if only they lived by those rules. But God's people in the Old Testament (the people of Israel) did not understand that, nor were they able to obey those rules. So God came up with a new covenant so they would understand: he put his rules (the law) in their mind and in their heart. He did that by pouring out his Holy Spirit, who gives us understanding. (John 14:26)

Application:
What struck me in this passage is that God didn't change his laws. The laws and rules that God gave all boil down to the ultimate law of loving Him and loving others (Matthew 22:37-40). That was the same in the Old Testament as it is in the New Testament! What changed in the New Testament is that God simply found a new way of conveying his laws of love. By pouring out the Holy Spirit, He poured out a little bit of Himself on each one of us. How amazing!!

Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for showing mercy on us, by meeting us in our shortcomings. Thank you for giving your Son, and thank you for your Spirit who guides us and teaches us. Thank you for softening our stony hearts, and turning them into hearts of flesh that can show compassion and love to others. Help us never forget that. In Jesus Name. Amen.

Have a great and purposeful week.

In Christ,

Dick

Week 45: Presenting our Gifts

This week's Bible reading plan is as follows:

• Sunday: Ezekiel 10:1-11:25, Hebrews 6:1-20, Psalm 105:16-36, Proverbs 27:1-2
• Monday: Ezekiel 12:1-14:11, Hebrews 7:1-17, Psalm 105:37-45, Proverbs 27:3
• Tuesday: Ezekiel 14:12-16:41, Hebrews 7:18-28, Psalm 106:1-12, Proverbs 27:4-6
• Wednesday: Ezekiel 16:42-17:24, Hebrews 8:1-13, Psalm 106:13-31, Proverbs 27:7-9
• Thursday: Ezekiel 18:1-19:14, Hebrews 9:1-10, Psalm 106:32-48, Proverbs 27:10
• Friday: Ezekiel 20:1-49, Hebrews 9:11-28, Psalm 107:1-43, Proverbs 27:11
• Saturday: Ezekiel 21:1-22:31, Hebrews 10:1-17, Psalm 108:1-13, Proverbs 27:12

Our S.O.A.P. this week is from the book of Hebrews:

 

Scripture: Hebrews 7:26

"He is the kind of high priest we need because he is holy and blameless, unstained by sin. He has now been set apart from sinners, and he has been given the highest place of honor in heaven."

Observation:
The book of Hebrews is somewhat difficult to understand at times. The author spends a lot of time explaining the principles of the Jewish priesthood, and how Jesus is the perfect high priest. What exactly does that mean, the fact that Jesus is a high priest? Well, for that we have to go to Hebrews Chapter 5 verse 1, where we find a 'definition' of what a high priest is:

"Now a high priest is a man chosen to represent other human beings in their dealings with God. He presents their gifts to God and offers their sacrifices for sins."

So a high priest is chosen, and his main function is to represent other human beings in their dealings with God. The two main tasks a high priest performs for people are described here: 1. The high priest presents their gifts to God, and 2. he offers sacrifices for their sin.

Application:
The fact that Jesus is our high priest, means that he is the one who represents us in our dealings with God. According to the definition above, this means that He presents our gifts to God, and He offers sacrifices for our sin, which He did once and for all on the cross. I knew that Jesus offered sacrifices for my sin (himself, holy & blameless), but what struck me was the other task that the high priest does for us: He presents our gifts to God. What gifts are these? Well, I think these gifts could be our acts of service, our love for one another, our monetary offerings, etc. Whatever we bring to honor God, Jesus presents that gift to the Father. How awesome is that when you think of it?

Prayer:
Dear Lord Jesus, thank you for representing us in our dealings with God. There is no better ambassador we could have than you. We love you and praise you, and want to offer our lives as a living sacrifice to honor you. In your name we pray. Amen.

Have a great week!

In Christ,

Dick

Week 44: Electing to do the Right Thing

This week's Bible reading plan is as follows:

• Sunday: Jeremiah 51:54-52:34; Titus 3:1-15; Psalm 100:1-5; Proverbs 26:18-19
• Monday: Lamentations 1:1-2:22; Philemon 1:1-25; Psalm 101:1-8; Proverbs 26:20
• Tuesday: Lamentations 3:1-66; Hebrews 1:1-14; Psalm 102:1-28; Proverbs 26:21-22
• Wednesday: Lamentations 4:1-5:22; Hebrews 2:1-18; Psalm 103:1-22; Proverbs 26:23
• Thursday: Ezekiel 1:1-3:15; Hebrews 3:1-19; Psalm 104:1-23; Proverbs 26:24-26
• Friday: Ezekiel 3:16-6:14; Hebrews 4:1-16; Psalm 104:24-35; Proverbs 26:27
• Saturday: Ezekiel 7:1-9:11; Hebrews 5:1-14; Psalm 105:1-15; Proverbs 26:28

Our S.O.A.P. this week is from the book of Titus:

Scripture: Titus 3:1, 2
"Remind the believers to submit to the government and its officers. They should be obedient, always ready to do what is good. They must not slander anyone and must avoid quarreling. Instead, they should be gentle and show true humility to everyone."

Observation:
When I read these verses this morning, it occurred to me how relevant they are for Americans at this stage of the political calendar. Candidates are challenging the records of incumbents and incumbents are challenging the qualifications of their challengers. There is a lot of mud-slinging in all directions. It is easy for Christ-followers to get caught up in the disrespectful, uncharitable spirit of partisan rancor.

I am reminded of an earlier time in my pastoral life when several members of the church I served put bumper stickers on their cars that had disparaging remarks about the president that was in office at the time. This bothered me, so I said something about it in one of my sermons. I quoted this passage and said that God calls us to submit to our leaders and to respect them in ways that honor Jesus Christ. After the service a man approached me and said, "I respect the president's office, but not the man." I answered, "Think about it…it is impossible to respect the office of the president while disrespecting the president that occupies the office."

Application:
Today I want to sit with this passage and let its teachings soak into my soul. I want to be ready do obey and do what is good rather than slandering those in office (or those running for office). I want to rise above all forms of mud-slinging and be a model of love and humility. And after the elections, I want to honor, pray for, and respect whoever ends up in office.

Prayer:
Father in heaven, I thank you that I live in the United States. I pray for this country and its leaders…and I pray that you will help us be examples of love and humility throughout the final stages of this election period, for Jesus’ sake. Amen!

Have a great week!

Faithfully,
Chuck

Week 43: The Forgotten Virtue

This week's Bible reading plan is as follows:

• Sunday: Jeremiah 37:1-38:28; 1 Timothy 6:1-21; Psalm 89:38-52; Proverbs 25:28
• Monday: Jeremiah 39:1-41:18; 2 Timothy 1:1-18; Psalm 90:1-91:16; Proverbs 26:1-2 
• Tuesday: Jeremiah 42:1-44:23; 2 Timothy 2:1-21; Psalm 92:1-93:5; Proverbs 26:3-5 
• Wednesday: Jeremiah 44:24-47:7; 2 Timothy 2:22-3:17; Psalm 94:1-23; Proverbs 26:6-8 
• Thursday: Jeremiah 48:1-49:22; 2 Timothy 4:1-22; Psalm 95:1-96:13; Proverbs 26:9-12
• Friday: Jeremiah 49:23-50:46; Titus 1:1-16; Psalm 97:1-98:9; Proverbs 26:13-16
• Saturday: Jeremiah 51:1-53; Titus 2:1-15; Psalm 99:1-9; Proverbs 26:17 

Our S.O.A.P. this week is from the book of 1 Timothy:

Scripture: 1 Timothy 6:6-10
"Yet true godliness with contentment is itself great wealth. After all, we brought nothing with us when we came into the world, and we can’t take anything with us when we leave it. So if we have enough food and clothing, let us be content.

"But people who long to be rich fall into temptation and are trapped by many foolish and harmful desires that plunge them into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil. And some people, craving money, have wandered from the true faith and pierced themselves with many sorrows."

Observation:
When I read this text today, it made me think of the time I was visiting a new church and the pastor opened his message with the question, "Who wants to get rich?" Almost half the people enthusiastically raised their hands. I thought to myself, "What a creative way to begin a message on the deceitfulness of riches and the need to replace our desire to 'get rich' with the godly contentment."

Contentment is a virtue that is both overlooked and misunderstood. When people in our day and age say they are satisfied with their station in life (with the job they have or with the car they drive or whatever), they are often marked as lazy or "willing to settle for the status quo – the mediocre."

Our culture lauds ambition over contentment (as though they were mutually exclusive). Our world induces us to "dress for success" and "aspire to greatness" and to take steps to assure that we claim as big a piece of life's pie as we can get.

Godly contentment is simply not on the world's radar…which is unfortunate because, according to the Bible, it is the key to true success.

Someone has said it this way: 'True success is not having what you want, but wanting what you have."

Godly contentment is not lazy because it will never let us rest until we have found our true north in living wholeheartedly for Jesus Christ. Godly contentment strives for a treasure that the world does not recognize…and will not rest until it lays claim to it. Its home is in Jesus and Jesus' call. Its destination is true life. It is not distracted by the festooned phoniness of wealth and success, which is destined to perish. And when it finds what it is looking for, it knows…we know.

We know that we are at rest in the arms of the One who will never leave us or forsake us.

Application:
Today I want to make a point of not projecting myself into a future of "better things." I want to celebrate the goodness of my life the way it is now. I want to make the most of the present moment. Today I will love my life the way it is…period. I will cherish "now." I will enjoy today as the gift it is. I will be Jesus' man here and now, resting in the Great "I AM." It strikes me that when God revealed himself to Moses…and for the first time named himself for the human race…he said, "My name is, 'I Am that I Am.'" God is God to us in the present tense. He is not "I Was" or "I Will Be."

I can't seize upon contentment by dwelling on my past accomplishments and failures…and I can't find it by yearning for or trying to predict what is not yet. Godly contentment is a virtue that we can embrace only in the present.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, please envelop me with a contentment that makes no earthly sense, as I pray in Jesus' name. Amen!

Have a great week!

Faithfully,

Chuck

Week 42: Innocent Birds

This week's Bible reading plan is as follows:

• Sunday: Jeremiah 23:21-25:38, 2 Thessalonians 2:1-17, Psalm 84:1-12, Proverbs 25:15
• Monday: Jeremiah 26:1-27:22, 2 Thessalonians 3:1-18, Psalm 85:1-13, Proverbs 25:16
• Tuesday: Jeremiah 28:1-29:32, 1 Timothy 1:1-20, Psalm 86:1-17, Proverbs 25:17
• Wednesday: Jeremiah 30:1-31:26, 1 Timothy 2:1-15, Psalm 87:1-7, Proverbs 25:18-19
• Thursday: Jeremiah 31:27-32:44, 1 Timothy 3:1-16, Psalm 88:1-18, Proverbs 25:20-22
• Friday: Jeremiah 33:1-34:22, 1 Timothy 4:1-16, Psalm 89:1-13, Proverbs 25:23-24
• Saturday: Jeremiah 35:1-36:32, 1 Timothy 5:1-25, Psalm 89:14-37, Proverbs 25:25-27

Our S.O.A.P. this week is from the book of Psalms:

Scripture: Psalm 84:1-4
1 How lovely is your dwelling place, O LORD Almighty. 2 I long, yes, I faint with longing to enter the courts of the LORD. With my whole being, body and soul, I will shout joyfully to the living God. 3 Even the sparrow finds a home there, and the swallow builds her nest and raises her young -- at a place near your altar, O LORD Almighty, my King and my God! 4 How happy are those who can live in your house, always singing your praises.

Observation:

In last week's SOAP we talked about the song "I will boast". This week's reading of Psalm 84 connects us with another famous song "Better is one day in your courts". The first two verses of this Psalm are also the opening verses of that song. The writer of the Psalm proclaims his love and desire for God's house, the Temple. He longs to enter the courts of the LORD, yes, he even faints with longing. His heart is burning to be in the presence of the LORD. With his whole being he is shouting joyfully to the living God.

The verse that caught my eye, though, is verse 3: Even the sparrow finds a home there, and the swallow builds her nest and raises her young -- at a place near your altar, O LORD Almighty, my King and my God! The psalm writer paints a picture of birds that were simply flying in and out of the temple. Unlike people, who had to come through the gates at certain times (and not even all people were allowed to enter) birds didn't have any restrictions. They could simply fly in and out. Even build a nest near the altar and raise their young there!

Application:

To me, this picture of innocent birds flying in and out of the temple, is a beautiful picture of how God wants us Christians to live: simply come into his presence without any restriction or obstacle. Simply build your nest near His altar, and raise your young in his house. Simply come to Him, the fount of our blessing, and live in the shadow and protection of his wings. Jesus says in Matthew 11:28: "Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest."

Prayer:

Dear Heavenly Father, thank you that we can come to you as innocent birds. Through Jesus Christ, You allow us into your presence. Through Him, you see us faultless, perfect and holy, even though we know we are not! Thank you for the peace we find in you. How happy are those who can live in your house, always singing your praise. In Jesus Name, Amen.

As you go about your week, enjoy God's presence. Sing his praise, and know that He loves you unconditionally.

In Him,

Dick

Week 41: Boast in God Alone

This week's Bible reading plan is as follows:

• Sunday: Jeremiah 8:8-9:26, Colossians 3:1-17, Psalm 78:32-55, Proverbs 24:27
• Monday: Jeremiah 10:1-11:23, Colossians 3:18-4:18, Psalm 78:56-72, Proverbs 24:28-29
• Tuesday: Jeremiah 12:1-14:10, 1 Thessalonians 1:1-2:8, Psalm 79:1-13, Proverbs 24:30-34
• Wednesday: Jeremiah 14:11-16:15, 1 Thessalonians 2:9-3:13, Psalm 80:1-19, Proverbs 25:1-5
• Thursday: Jeremiah 16:16-18:23, 1 Thessalonians 4:1-5:3, Psalm 81:1-16, Proverbs 25:6-8
• Friday: Jeremiah 19:1-21:14, 1 Thessalonians 5:4-28, Psalm 82:1-8, Proverbs 25:9-10
• Saturday: Jeremiah 22:1-23:20, 2 Thessalonians 1:1-12, Psalm 83:1-18, Proverbs 25:11-14

Our S.O.A.P. this week is from the book of the prophet Jeremiah:

Scripture: Jeremiah 9:23-24
23 This is what the LORD says: "Let not the wise boast of their wisdom or the strong boast of their strength or the rich boast of their riches, 24 but let those who boast boast about this: that they understand and know me, that I am the LORD, who exercises kindness, justice and righteousness on earth, for in these I delight," declares the LORD.

Observation:
The LORD (YHWH) is speaking to his people directly through the prophet Jeremiah. He tells them not to boast in their strength or riches. Anyone who wants to boast needs to boast in this one thing... that they understand and know the LORD. The transliterated Hebrew word for 'boast' is Halal, which means to 'glory', or 'shine'. God is making his point clear here: his people shouldn't glorify themselves, but only bring glory to Him.

Application:
I know these verses pretty well, as we sing a song at our church called 'I will boast' by Paul Baloche, that  has put these words of Jeremiah to music. Yet, when I read these words again, I was struck by the phrase: "...let those who boast boast about this: that they understand and know me...". It struck me, because I'm not the most vocal person when it comes to boasting about God in public. Yes, I've shared the Good News with those who don't know Him, but there have been plenty of times when I 'glorify' myself, or like to bask in the glory of my own accomplishments, strength, riches, and so on. God wants us to glorify Him alone. I need to be more conscious to boast about the fact that I understand and know Him.

God also tells us some key characteristics about Himself, that He likes to be known for: kindness, justice and righteousness. God delights in these, and He delights in it when his children exercise these attributes here on earth.

Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, I do want to boast in You alone. You are the giver of strength, riches, and everything else. Keep us from glorifying ourselves, and help us to bring glory to you alone, and your Son, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. In His name we pray. Amen.

Have a blessed week. For those at Woodhaven Community Church: I encourage all of you to take on the Transformeter Challenge. Simply be willing to join a group and go through the challenges, and let God complete the transformation in you!

In Him,

Dick

Week 40: Living the Atonement Life

This week's Bible reading plan is as follows:

*Sunday: Isaiah 60:1-62:5; Philippians 1:27-2:18; Psalm 72:1-20; Proverbs 24:11-12
*Monday: Isaiah 62:6-65:25; Philippians 2:19-3:3; Psalm 73:1-28; Proverbs 24:13-14
*Tuesday: Isaiah 66:1-24; Philippians 3:4-21; Psalm 74:1-23; Proverbs 24:15-16
*Wednesday: Jeremiah 1:1-2:30; Philippians 4:1-23; Psalm 75:1-10; Proverbs 24:17-20
*Thursday: Jeremiah 2:31-4:18; Colossians 1:1-17; Psalm 76:1-12; Proverbs 24:21-22
*Friday: Jeremiah 4:19-6:15; Colossians 1:18-2:7; Psalm 77:1-20; Proverbs 24:23-25
*Saturday: Jeremiah 6:16-8:7; Colossians 2:8-23; Psalm 78:1-31; Proverbs 24:26

This week's S.O.A.P. reflection is taken from Philippians:

Scripture: Philippians 2:12, 13
"Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose."

Observation:
When Jesus emptied himself of the privileges and prerogatives of Deity to become a human being and when he followed through on the Father's plan to give himself as a sacrifice for human sin on the cross, he achieved what theologians call "atonement"—a word whose meaning, at least in part, is suggested by its three components: "at-one-ment." When Jesus became a human being, lived a sinless life, and then took upon himself the punishment for sin by dying a sinner’s death, he achieved forgiveness for all who embrace him in saving faith. But there’s more to the atonement than forgiveness…

The atonement has as much to do with how we live now as it does about "going to heaven when we die."

In 2:6-11, the Apostle Paul quoted a hymn that the early church sang. It is one of the richest pieces of theology in the New Testament. (As a side note, I would point out that this passage shows us that deep theology can be taught through our songs and hymns…if we are intentional enough to use our music that way…a point that writers of sacred music in previous generations understood better than many of today's popular song writers.) After citing this rich reflection on Jesus' incarnation, life, death, and resurrection, Paul begins the next phrase with the word “therefore.”

In other words, everything Paul says in verses 12 and 13 about living a godly life is based on the atonement, which he expressed in the previous verses.

Application:
We are to live atonement lives. Our lives are to be living, breathing instances of at-one-ment with God. Paul explains how we do that. We "work out our salvation with fear and trembling," which does not mean that we are trying to earn salvation through our works. There is a world of difference between "working for" and "working out."

What does it mean to work out our salvation? It means that we learn to live our lives in union with God. Paul says in this passage that God is in us…willing and acting in ways to fulfill his good purpose. That's why there is "fear and trembling!" It is an awesome thing to be in union with the Living God!

The atonement of Jesus puts us at one with the God of the universe! When a person becomes a follower of Jesus Christ, he or she is filled with the Holy Spirit, which means that God takes up residence in that person…and he or she is never alone again!

Today I want to sit with the reality of the atonement and realize afresh that being "at one" with God makes all the difference in the world as to how I live.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, it is an awesome thing to be union with you, the Living God! Please help me not take that lightly. Teach me what you want of me as I seek to work out my salvation in harmony with you. Thank you so much that Jesus' atonement achieves the forgiveness of sin, for without that, I could not exist in your presence at all! But now that you have brought me into union with you, please help me to be sensitive to your promptings and to live a life of obedience and joy. I pray in Jesus' name. Amen!

Have a wonderful week in God's word!

Faithfully,

Chuck

Week 39: Living Promises

This week's Bible reading plan is as follows:

*Sunday: Isaiah 41:17-43:13; Ephesians 2:1-22; Psalm 67:1-7; Proverbs 23:29-35
*Monday: Isaiah 43:14-45:10; Ephesians 3:1-21; Psalm 68:1-18; Proverbs 24:1-2
*Tuesday: Isaiah 45:11-48:11; Ephesians 4:1-16; Psalm 68:19-35; Proverbs 24:3-4
*Wednesday: Isaiah 48:12-50:11; Ephesians 4:17-32; Psalm 69:1-18; Proverbs 24:5-6
*Thursday: Isaiah 51:1-53:12; Ephesians 5:1-33; Psalm 69:19-36; Proverbs 24:7
*Friday: Isaiah 54:1-57:14; Ephesians 6:1-24; Psalm 70:1-5; Proverbs 24:8
*Saturday: Isaiah 57:15-59:21; Philippians 1:1-26; Psalm 71:1-24; Proverbs 24:9-10

This week's S.O.A.P. reflection is taken from Isaiah:

Scripture: Isaiah 43:1b-3a
Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you.

I have called you by name; you are mine.

When you go through deep waters,
 I will be with you.

When you go through rivers of difficulty,
 you will not drown.

When you walk through the fire of oppression,

you will not be burned up;
 the flames will not consume you.

For I am the Lord, your God,
 the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.

Observation:
One thing I love about reading Scripture in the One-Year format is the combination of readings from the Old and New Testaments. When I first read this passage from Isaiah, I had my professor hat on and interpreted it in its historical-cultural context. I understood the prophet to be addressing Israel during a particularly difficult point in its history. These prophetic words were life giving and hope infusing. But they were written for a certain people at a specific point in history.

However, when I read the passage from Ephesians 2, which states that Jesus united the Jews and Gentiles into one people through his body on the cross, I realized afresh that God’s words through Isaiah speak directly to me in the here-and-now!

It's a beautiful thing to hear God speak directly to us: "Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you. I have called you by name; you are mine." It is wonderful to hear God's comforting promise, "When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown." No matter what I face in life, I can rest assured that God will deliver me from it. And I can take these promises to the bank because they bear the signature of “the Lord, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior."

Application:
I want to sit with this word from God today and let it soak into my being. I want to let its soothing warmth wash over me and wring every ounce of stress from my soul. This is God’s word to me...and to you.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, your word is living, active, and sharper than any two-edged sword. It is as current today...and as meaningful to your people today...as it was when you first spoke it to your inspired writers. Today I rest in you and in your grace. Because you are my God, I have nothing to fear...and I have every reason to rejoice, no matter what my circumstances are. Thank you most of all for Jesus, who secures my salvation and brings all your promises to life. Amen!

Have a great week reading God's word!

Faithfully,
Chuck

Week 38: Learn to Look at the One

This week's Bible reading plan is as follows:

• Sunday: Isaiah 22:1-24:23, Galatians 2:17-3:9, Psalm 60:1-12, Proverbs 23:15-16
• Monday: Isaiah 25:1-28:13, Galatians 3:10-22, Psalm 61:1-8, Proverbs 23:17-18
• Tuesday: Isaiah 28:14-30:11, Galatians 3:23-4:31, Psalm 62:1-12, Proverbs 23:19-21
• Wednesday: Isaiah 30:12-33:9, Galatians 5:1-12, Psalm 63:1-11, Proverbs 23:22
• Thursday: Isaiah 33:10-36:22, Galatians 5:13-26, Psalm 64:1-10, Proverbs 23:23
• Friday: Isaiah 37:1-38:22, Galatians 6:1-18, Psalm 65:1-13, Proverbs 23:24
• Saturday: Isaiah 39:1-41:16, Ephesians 1:1-23, Psalm 66:1-20, Proverbs 23:25-28

Our  S.O.A.P. this week is from the book of the prophet Isaiah:

Scripture: Isaiah 22:11
11 You built a reservoir between the two walls for the water of the Old Pool, but you did not look to the One who made it, or have regard for the One who planned it long ago.

Observation:
In this section of book, Isaiah addresses the people of Jerusalem. He calls them out on their attitude toward God. While God is asking them to repent (verse 12), they are partying (verse 13) and occupying themselves with their own business, trying to solve their own problems (verses 8 to 11). In all of this, they disregarded the One who created everything and planned things out a long time ago (our SOAP verse).

Application:
I can't tell you how many times I've caught myself trying to go after my own business, resolving my own problems, without looking to One who made me AND the circumstances I'm in. I forget that He is in TOTAL control of everything, and that He has planned things out long ago. Only if I lean on Him and trust Him in everything, will I come to place of rest and peace. I know that's the place that He desires for me.

Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, You have made everything, and You have planned things long ago. Help me to trust you in everything, and to rely on you, no matter the circumstances. I trust in your unlimited power, the power that is in the name of your Son, our Savior Jesus Christ. In His Name we pray. Amen.

Have a blessed week.

Dick

Week 37: Four Simple Rules to Live By

This week's Bible reading plan is as follows:

• Sunday: Isaiah 3:1-5:30, 2 Corinthians 11:1-15, Psalm 53:1-6, Proverbs 22:28-29
• Monday: Isaiah 6:1-7:25, 2 Corinthians 11:16-33, Psalm 54:1-7, Proverbs 23:1-3
• Tuesday: Isaiah 8:1-9:21, 2 Corinthians 12:1-10, Psalm 55:1-23, Proverbs 23:4-5
• Wednesday: Isaiah 10:1-11:16, 2 Corinthians 12:11-21, Psalm 56:1-13, Proverbs 23:6-8
• Thursday: Isaiah 12:1-14:32, 2 Corinthians 13:1-14, Psalm 57:1-11, Proverbs 23:9-11
• Friday: Isaiah 15:1-18:7, Galatians 1:1-24, Psalm 58:1-11, Proverbs 23:12
• Saturday: Isaiah 19:1-21:17, Galatians 2:1-16, Psalm 59:1-17, Proverbs 23:13-14

Scripture: 2 Corinthians 13:11
11 Dear brothers and sisters, I close my letter with these last words: Rejoice. Change your ways. Encourage each other. Live in harmony and peace. Then the God of love and peace will be with you.

Observation:
Paul and Timothy close their letter sort of with a mantra for living the Christian lifestyle. They have discussed so many things in this letter, from correcting sexual misconduct, explaining the New Covenant, to encouraging generous giving, to defending against false apostles, and much more! It is as if here, at the very end, they want to summarize for the Christians in Corinth one last time what's really important.

And here it is, a short and sweet list of four simple rules we can all remember:

1. Rejoice.
2. Change your ways.
3. Encourage each other.
4. Live in harmony and peace.

Application:
Wow!! What a simple formula (or mantra) to live by! What if we all did this on a daily basis?! Four simple things that -- if we would follow them consistently -- our lives and the lives of the people around us would be radically transformed. I'm most definitely guilty of not always living by these 4. When I wake up in the morning, and look at all the things that are waiting for me at work, or other obligations I have, one of the last things on my mind is to "Rejoice"...

Yet, it is so important to do this. I will have to pause at the very beginning of each day, and rejoice that God has given me another day to live for his glory. I need to continue to change my ways, and use my talents and gifts to encourage others. And if at all possible, to live in harmony and peace with everyone, especially my brothers and sisters in Christ. When I do... the God of love and peace will be with me, and with you.

Prayer:
May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.

Have a great and joy-filled week.

In Him,

Dick

Week 36: Resting

This week's Bible reading plan is as follows:

*Sunday: Ecclesiastes 1:1-3:22; 2 Corinthians 6:1-13; Psalm 46:1-11; Proverbs 22:15
*Monday: Ecclesiastes 4:1-6:12; 2 Corinthians 6:14-7:7; Psalm 47:1-9; Proverbs 22:16
*Tuesday: Ecclesiastes 7:1-9:18; 2 Corinthians 7:8-16; Psalm 48:1-14; Proverbs 22:17-19
*Wednesday: Ecclesiastes 10:1-12:14; 2 Corinthians 8:1-15; Psalm 49:1-20; Proverbs 22:20-21
*Thursday: Song of Solomon 1:1-4:16; 2 Corinthians 8:16-24; Psalm 50:1-23; Proverbs 22:22-23
*Friday: Song of Solomon 5:1-8:14; 2 Corinthians 9:1-15; Psalm 51:1-19; Proverbs 22:24-25
*Saturday: Isaiah 1:1-2:22; 2 Corinthians 10:1-18; Psalm 52:1-9; Proverbs 22:26-27


Scripture: Psalm 46:10
“Be still, and know that I am God!
I will be honored by every nation.
I will be honored throughout the world.”

Observation:
Today I receive God's invitation to rest...to be still and know (experientially) that he is God. The other day, someone mentioned how we are saved by grace...and immediately I was struck by the irony of how some Christians, including myself, sometimes embrace the belief that while we are saved by grace, everything after that is work! I was surprised by this thought because it made me realize that I am carrying more guilt about my life in Christ than I should be.

We talk about the free gift of salvation in Jesus Christ, but perhaps we don't always experience the freeness, the rest, of grace. We unwittingly embrace the notion, “Salvation is free, but it cost God everything...therefore we owe God everything!” Sometimes I feel guilty because I feel I am not doing enough. I fear that I am not being a faithful steward. I secretly wonder whether I have chosen earthly comfort over a life of abject sacrificial service.

I agree with the writer of Ecclesiastes that “life under the sun” is meaningless...and I agree that life in relationship with the Father through Jesus Christ the Son through the Holy Spirit is the only way to truly live.

Application:
So, this morning, after a safe and delightful return home from a long trip, I receive God's "rest." It seems that striving is the natural thing...even in my service to Jesus Christ. But God calls me back to that place of quiet rest. Even worship and God-centered activity, if they become things of my own making, can get in the way of knowing God. So, today, afresh, I rest and know.

Prayer:
This is so much easier said than done, O my God! So please meet me here in my rest, lest I start striving all over again! I pray in Jesus' name. Amen!

Have a great week!

Faithfully,

Chuck

Week 35: The Little Things Matter

This week's Bible reading plan is as follows:

*Sunday: Job 16:1-19:29; 1 Corinthians 16:1-24; Psalm 40:1-10; Proverbs 22:1
*Monday: Job 20:1-22:30; 2 Corinthians 1:1-11; Psalm 40:11-17; Proverbs 22:2-4
*Tuesday: Job 23:1-27:23; 2 Corinthians 1:12-2:11; Psalm 41:1-13; Proverbs 22:5-6
*Wednesday: Job 28:1-30:31; 2 Corinthians 2:12-17; Psalm 42:1-11; Proverbs 22:7
*Thursday: Job 31:1-33:33; 2 Corinthians 3:1-18; Psalm 43:1-5; Proverbs 22:8-9
*Friday: Job 34:1-36:33; 2 Corinthians 4:1-12; Psalm 44:1-8; Proverbs 22:10-12
*Saturday: Job 37:1-39:30; 2 Corinthians 4:13-5:10; Psalm 44:9-26; Proverbs 22:13

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 15:58
"So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and immovable. Always work enthusiastically for the Lord, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless."

I am in Seoul, South Korea as I write this and it is actually Sunday morning here. Back in Sherwood the time is 3:50 pm, Saturday, August 24th. Here is it 7:50 am, Sunday, August 25th. I lost a day when I flew to Korea. I left on Tuesday afternoon at 2:00 pm and 10 hours later arrived on Wednesday night at 6:00 pm. But I will recapture lost time when I return. I leave for home next Saturday at 5:00 pm and, after an 11-hour trip, I will arrive in San Francisco five hours earlier than when I left!

All that to say...this is really messing with my quiet times! Today for me is yesterday for you! So my reflection today (Sunday) is drawn from the Scripture readings from your today (Saturday). :)

Observation:
Today's readings converge in some striking ways. Job in 14:14-17, Job asks:
Can the dead live again?
If so, this would give me hope through all my years of struggle,
and I would eagerly await the release of death.
You would call and I would answer,
and you would yearn for me, your handiwork.
For then you would guard my steps,
instead of watching for my sins.
My sins would be sealed in a pouch,
and you would cover my guilt.

As he wrote those words, he was in a dark place and had little hope in a future life. But his insights regarding the hope of eternal life are striking! Those who know that eternity is just on the other side of physical death have hope during all their years of struggle. Death for them is not the end, but a "release" into the next chapter of untold blessings. Our prayer life is completely different than it would be if we had no hope of life everlasting. We understand God in a completely different light as well. We realize the he won't discard us after we die. Instead, he yearns for his handiwork, guarding our steps. Rather than counting our sins against us, God seals them in a pouch and covers our guilt.

Similarly, Paul addresses the implications of our hope of everlasting life in 1 Corinthians 15. What I really like about the last verse of this chapter (v. 58) is that whatever we do for the Lord counts. Paul says that NOTHING we do for the Lord is ever useless. When we live our lives for God, IT MATTERS.

Application:
This realization motivates me to spend more time and energy engaging in work for the Lord...and that includes how I go about doing the ordinary things in the day. No matter what I happen to be doing, I have the choice of "doing it for the Lord" or doing the same thing mindlessly, without giving a thought to how my present activity may be used to glorify God. The big difference is the attitude I have...and the level of consciousness I bring to a given task. If I have an attitude of joy and worship...and if I am conscious of God's presence in that very moment, I can turn an ordinary task into an act of worship and adoration...no matter what it is! And NOTHING I do for the Lord is useless.

Prayer:
Lord, every moment of the day belongs to you. You've given me the blessed opportunity to serve you in everything I do. Please open my eyes to see you in everything I do...and help me glorify you in all things, small and large. I pray in Jesus' name. Amen.

Have a great week, no matter you're time zone!

Faithfully,
Chuck

Week 34: Called in Such a Time as This.

This week's Bible reading plan is as follows:



*Sunday: Esther 4:1-7:10, 1 Corinthians 12:1-26, Psalm 36:1-12, Proverbs 21:21-22
*Monday: Esther 8:1-10:3, 1 Corinthians 12:27-13:13, Psalm 37:1-11, Proverbs 21:23-24
*Tuesday: Job 1:1-3:26, 1 Corinthians 14:1-17, Psalm 37:12-29, Proverbs 21:25-26
*Wednesday: Job 4:1-7:21, 1 Corinthians 14:18-40, Psalm 37:30-40, Proverbs 21:27
*Thursday: Job 8:1-11:20, 1 Corinthians 15:1-28, Psalm 38:1-22, Proverbs 21:28-29
*Friday: Job 12:1-15:35, 1 Corinthians 15:29-58, Psalm 39:1-13, Proverbs 21:30-31
*Saturday: Job 16:1-19:29, 1 Corinthians 16:1-24, Psalm 40:1-10, Proverbs 22:1

Scripture: Esther 4:14
For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father's family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to royal position for such a time as this?"

Observation:
The book of Esther could have equally well be called the "book of Mordechai". Mordechai was Esther's uncle, who took her into his home when her parents died, and who suggested for her to apply for the position of Queen, wife of king Xerxes, who ruled over the kingdom of Media and Persia. It kind of is a fairy tale... Esther does earn the favor of the King, and becomes his wife. And everyone lived happily ever after. Well,... until one of the nobles, Haman, comes up with a plan to exterminate all the Jews, because of Mordechai.

This would be nothing less than a major tragedy, and Mordechai clothes himself in sackcloth to display his mourning. Esther doesn't understand at first why he behaves this way, but then finds out about Haman's evil plan. Mordechai instructs her to approach the king about this, but Esther comes up with an excuse (4:11). That's when Mordechai tells Esther how grave the situation is in the verse above.

Application:
I love how practical Mordechai is. He tells it how it is: "If you keep silent, God will provide an alternative, but you and your family will die. And by the way, has it ever occurred to you that God might have given you the position of queen so that you were in a position to save us from all this??"

What is it that God has called you to be in such a time as this? Has he called you in a certain position that allows you to use your gifts, talents, and resources to expand his kingdom, and save some people from eternal death? That's a deep question, and I challenge you to ponder that this week. It's something that's on my mind for sure. God has give all of us abilities (read 1 Corinthians 12 this week!). How are you using those gifts to expand his kingdom?

Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, I thank you for giving us gifts through your Holy Spirit. I pray that you help us to recognize the gifts you have given us, the resources that you have given us, and the position you have placed us in that allows us to reach people for You. Help us to capitalize on those opportunities. In the strong name of Jesus Christ.

Have a great week, and please remember to pray for our Thrive mission team that is going out this week to serve God in a very practical way.

In Him,

Dick

Week 33: Acting Differently

This week's Bible reading plan is as follows:



*Sunday: Nehemiah 3:15-5:13, 1 Corinthians 7:25-40, Psalm 32:1-11, Proverbs 21:5-7
*Monday: Nehemiah 5:14-7:73, 1 Corinthians 8:1-13, Psalm 33:1-11, Proverbs 21:8-10
*Tuesday: Nehemiah 7:73-9:21, 1 Corinthians 9:1-18, Psalm 33:12-22, Proverbs 21:11-12
*Wednesday: Nehemiah 9:22-10:39, 1 Corinthians 9:19-10:13, Psalm 34:1-10, Proverbs 21:13
*Thursday: Nehemiah 11:1-12:26, 1 Corinthians 10:14-33, Psalm 34:11-22, Proverbs 21:14-16
*Friday: Nehemiah 12:27-13:31, 1 Corinthians 11:1-16, Psalm 35:1-16, Proverbs 21:17-18
*Saturday: Esther 1:1-3:15, 1 Corinthians 11:17-34, Psalm 35:17-28, Proverbs 21:19-20

Scripture: Nehemiah 5:15
This was quite a contrast to the former governors who had laid heavy burdens on the people, demanding a daily ration of food and wine, besides a pound b of silver. Even their assistants took advantage of the people. But because of my fear of God, I did not act that way.


Observation:
Nehemiah tells us how governors were behaving in the land of Israel before Nehemiah became governor: they 'stole' from the people by putting heavy burdens upon them. They probably enjoyed a good life style at the expense of the poor and powerless Jews who had remained in the land of Judah. Nehemiah, on the other hand, is selfless. Not only does he not burden the people, but also does he feed 150 of them daily at his table, at his own expense (v18a). He was driven by compassion for his people, because 'the people were already having a difficult time.' (v18b)

Application:
In Ephesians 4 verses 20-24, Paul calls us out "to be different":

20 You, however, did not come to know Christ that way. 21 Surely you heard of him and were taught in him in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus. 22 You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; 23 to be made new in the attitude of your minds; 24 and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. [Eph.4:20-24 NIV]

I love one of my Dutch translations, which says, "...but you should be completely different..." Already in the Old Testament, Nehemiah gave us an example of what it is to live a Christ-like life. He had an attitude of self-sacrifice, of putting others ahead of himself. He acted differently because he feared God.

Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, help me to be different, to not act conform this world, but to have the mindset of Christ. I pray that you help me to develop an attitude of servanthood. I want to live to your honor and glory, just like Nehemiah. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

Have a wonderful week of reading and studying.

In Him,

Dick

Week 32: Foolish Enough to Follow

This week's Bible reading plan is as follows:



*Sunday: Ezra 1:1-2:70; 1 Corinthians 1:18-2:5; Psalm 27:7-14; Proverbs 20:22-23
*Monday: Ezra 3:1-4:23; 1 Corinthians 2:6-3:4; Psalm 28:1-9; Proverbs 20:24-25
*Tuesday: Ezra 4:24-6:22;n1 Corinthians 3:5-23; Psalm 29:1-11; Proverbs 20:26-27
*Wednesday: Ezra 7:1-8:20; 1 Corinthians 4:1-21; Psalm 30:1-12; Proverbs 20:28-30
*Thursday: Ezra 8:21-9:15; 1 Corinthians 5:1-13; Psalm 31:1-8; Proverbs 21:1-2
*Friday: Ezra 10:1-44; 1 Corinthians 6:1-20; Psalm 31:9-18; Proverbs 21:3
*Saturday: Nehemiah 1:1-3:14; 1 Corinthians 7:1-24; Psalm 31:19-24; Proverbs 21:4


Scripture: 1 Corinthians 1:20-24
"So where does this leave the philosophers, the scholars, and the world's brilliant debaters? God has made the wisdom of this world look foolish. Since God in his wisdom saw to it that the world would never know him through human wisdom, he has used our foolish preaching to save those who believe. It is foolish to the Jews, who ask for signs from heaven. And it is foolish to the Greeks, who seek human wisdom. So when we preach that Christ was crucified, the Jews are offended and the Gentiles say it's all nonsense. But to those called by God to salvation, both Jews and Gentiles, Christ is the power of God and the wisdom of God."

Observation:
Paul's statement in verse 21 jumps out at me: the world will never know him through human wisdom. Human wisdom, in fact, is utter foolishness. There's a strange irony here. To those who consider themselves wise by the world's standards, the message of Jesus Christ dying on the cross for the salvation of human beings appears as nonsense. To those whom the wise of the world consider foolish, the message of the cross makes perfect sense. Jesus Christ is both the power and wisdom of God!

Application:
I am sometimes embarrassed when the world makes Christians out to be stupid and crazy. Some of the criticism is well deserved. There are times when my brothers and sisters in Christ do and say things that strike even devout believers as far-fetched and bizarre. But at the end of the day, there's no getting around the fact that the world will always judge faithful Christ-following as foolishness.

When I make it my goal to look intellectually respectable to an unbelieving world, I am guilty of idolatry. I fight a losing battle whenever I try to make Jesus look credible to those whose pride has sealed them in unbelief. Jesus does not want me to dress him up like a philosopher or guru. He wants me to be proud of him just the way he is. And he wants me to be proud of the fact that I am his, no matter how many people think I'm crazy or stupid.

Today, I will make it a point to consider myself proud to be counted among the foolish. And I will hold out hope that there are still countless others in this world that are crazy enough to join me!

Prayer:
O Lord, I am yours and you are mine. Thank you for making the truth of your salvation available to simple-minded people like me. I count it an honor and privilege to be called a fool for Jesus Christ, and I pray that you will help me stand strong and to be a light to others whom you've blessed with enough foolishness to follow you. I pray in Jesus' name. Amen!

Have a great week!

Faithfully,
Chuck

Week 31: The Salvation Imperative

This week's Bible reading plan is as follows:



*Sunday: 2 Chronicles 24:1-25:28; Romans 12:1-21; Psalm 22:19-31; Proverbs 20:8-10
*Monday: 2 Chronicles 26:1-28:27; Romans 13:1-14; Psalm 23:1-6; Proverbs 20:11
*Tuesday: 2 Chronicles 29:1-36; Romans 14:1-23; Psalm 24:1-10; Proverbs 20:12
*Wednesday: 2 Chronicles 30:1-31:21; Romans 15:1-22; Psalm 25:1-15; Proverbs 20:13-15
*Thursday: 2 Chronicles 32:1-33:13; Romans 15:23-16:9; Psalm 25:16-22; Proverbs 20:16-18
*Friday: 2 Chronicles 33:14-34:33; Romans 16:10-27; Psalm 26:1-12; Proverbs 20:19
*Saturday: 2 Chronicles 35:1-36:23; 1 Corinthians 1:1-17; Psalm 27:1-6; Proverbs 20:20-21

Scripture: Romans 13:11
This is all the more urgent, for you know how late it is; time is running out. Wake up, for our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed.

Observation:
With every passing day we are closer to eternity than the day before. And with every passing day, the urgency to live rightly before God therefore increases. What’s interesting is that urgency increases not because of looming “judgment,” but because of impending “salvation.” We are to make a point of living rightly because salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. This is the salvation imperative.

When I was a child, my sister and I would sometimes misbehave when my parents were out and a babysitter was watching us. The sitter would say, “If you don’t stop acting up I will tell your parents when they get home!” That was a judgment imperative.

The judgment imperative says, “If you don’t do better, you will be punished.” But God has put us under a salvation imperative in which he says, “I have declared you faultless...now live like it!” God does not hold the threat of judgment over our heads to get us to do what he wants; he holds the banner of adoption over us and calls us his own. He invites us into a new reality in which he loves us beyond measure and embraces us as his own no matter what we’ve done. And when that reality truly dawns on us, we can’t help but love as he loves and live as he lives.

Application:
I want to separate myself from all that is ungodly and pursue everything that distinguishes me as a child of light while there is still time! I want Jesus to have his way with me as I make the prayer of the Psalmist my own...

Prayer:
"Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life," for Jesus’ sake. Amen.

Have a great week!

Faithfully,
Chuck

Week 30: The Shekinah Glory

This week's Bible reading plan is as follows:

* Sunday: 2 Chronicles 6:12-8:10, Romans 7:14-8:8, Psalm 18:1-15, Proverbs 19:24-25
* Monday: 2 Chronicles 8:11-10:19, Romans 8:9-25, Psalm 18:16-36, Proverbs 19:26
* Tuesday: 2 Chronicles 11:1-13:22, Romans 8:26-39, Psalm 18:37-50, Proverbs 19:27-29
* Wednesday: 2 Chronicles 14:1-16:14, Romans 9:1-24, Psalm 19:1-14, Proverbs 20:1
* Thursday: 2 Chronicles 17:1-18:34, Romans 9:25-10:13, Psalm 20:1-9, Proverbs 20:2-3
* Friday: 2 Chronicles 19:1-20:37, Romans 10:14-11:12, Psalm 21:1-13, Proverbs 20:4-6
* Saturday: 2 Chronicles 21:1-23:21, Romans 11:13-36, Psalm 22:1-18, Proverbs 20:7

Our SOAP for this week is from 2 Chronicles 5 verse 13 and 14

Scripture:
13 The trumpeters and singers performed together in unison to praise and give thanks to the LORD. Accompanied by trumpets, cymbals, and other instruments, they raised their voices and praised the LORD with these words: "He is so good! His faithful love endures forever!" At that moment a cloud filled the Temple of the LORD. 14 The priests could not continue their work because the glorious presence of the LORD filled the Temple of God.

Observation:
The glory of the LORD filled the temple. This glory is what the Jewish rabbis called "Shekinah glory" a form of a Hebrew word that literally means "he caused to dwell," denoting a divine visitation of the presence or dwelling of JEHOVAH God on this earth. The presence of God is so strong, that the priests could not continue their work. What's interesting to me is that the moment that God's glory filled the temple, was the moment that the Levites started to worship. When God's name was praised in His house (the temple), God came down and dwelt among the people.

Application:
Worship is an important part of our church services. Even today, we may expectantly wait for God's glory to fill the church, when we praise Him with our voices and instruments.

Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, Son and Holy Spirit, I praise you and adore you, for everything you have done in our lives. Thank you for your mighty blessings. I praise your Holy Name. I pray that you dwell among us on Sunday mornings, that your glory fills our church. I pray that you dwell in our hearts, so that your glory may shine through us. In Jesus Name. Amen.

Have a blessed week, and let His glory shine through you in all you do.

Dick

Week 28: On God's Side

This week's Bible reading plan is as follows:





*Sunday: 1 Chronicles 5:18-6:81; Acts 26:1-32; Psalm 6:1-10; Proverbs 18:20-21

*Monday: 1 Chronicles 7:1-8:40; Acts 27:1-20; Psalm 7:1-17; Proverbs 18:22

*Tuesday: 1 Chronicles 9:1-10:14; Acts 27:21-44; Psalm 8:1-9; Proverbs 18:23-24

*Wednesday: 1 Chronicles 11:1-12:18; Acts 28:1-31; Psalm 9:1-12; Proverbs 19:1-3

*Thursday: 1 Chronicles 12:19-14:17; Romans 1:1-17; Psalm 9:13-20; Proverbs 19:4-5

*Friday: 1 Chronicles 15:1-16:36; Romans 1:18-32; Psalm 10:1-15; Proverbs 19:6-7

*Saturday: 1 Chronicles 16:37-18:17; Romans 2:1-24; Psalm 10:16-18; Proverbs 19:8-9

Scripture: 1 Chronicles 5:25, 26

But these tribes were unfaithful to the God of their ancestors. They worshiped the gods of the nations that God had destroyed. So the God of Israel caused King Pul of Assyria (also known as Tiglath-pileser) to invade the land and take away the people of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh as captives. The Assyrians exiled them to Halah, Habor, Hara, and the Gozan River, where they remain to this day.

Observation:

These verses speak of the tribes that opted to take their inheritance on the east side of the Jordan River when the Israelites approached the Promised Land under Moses’ leadership. When they saw the expansive lands of Jazer and Gilead and how well suited they were for their flocks and herds, the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half the tribe of Manasseh asked Moses if that could be their land inheritance, even though it was on the other side of the river, which formed a natural boundary for the Promised Land (and a natural barrier against invading enemies).  After much cajoling, Moses reluctantly agreed.  The problem is that these people were vulnerable to the influences of the surrounding (pagan) world.  In the final analysis, they were the first ones to become unfaithful to God…and the first to be taken into exile, never again to return to their homeland.

Application:

When we put ourselves in proximity of ungodly influences, we increase the likelihood that we will end up making the wrong choices and straying from God and God’s purposes for our lives. I am struck by the fact that these tribes went into exile first…and there is no doubt they did so because they “lived on the edge” in more ways than one. I want to place myself in the center of God’s will for my life…not on the periphery. I want to surround myself in the fellowship of God’s people rather than cavorting with the world. I want to spend my time with those who influence me for the good, rather than induce me to “get with the times.”  In the end, I want to be a light to the world...a light that is close enough to the world to be seen, and a light that is bright enough to shine and make a difference.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, please help me be a light that shines brightly in a world of darkness, drawing people to you. I pray that your Kingdom would be manifest in my life. Please lead me from temptation and deliver me from evil, for Jesus’ sake and to your glory.  Amen!

Have a great week!

Faithfully,

Chuck