Excited and thankful to announce my 5th book! Available in paperback and digital. This is the first book of a study on Psalm 119. Please check it out, I would love your thoughts.
Amazon.com: The Delight of Truth: Psalm 119:1-8: 9798842034987: Balogh, Sharyn M.: Books
And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, shall guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
I cannot imagine dropping my child off at school in the morning then returning to pick them up only to hear that they will never come home again. I can’t imagine wondering ‘did I hug them tight enough when I said good-bye’, ‘did they know they were shot and dying in that moment’, ‘were they alone’, ‘did they cry or scream’. As someone who is watching this current tragedy unfold, I do not pretend to even begin to understand the grief parents and families are feeling. What must be the depth of sorrow which has entered these lives? Words alone seem empty. Words will not change the events; they will not bring these children back to their families.
As a collective member of society I am horrified at our selfishness which leads to the action of taking another’s life. I wonder why it is that God doesn’t just throw fireballs at earth and end this people who have desecrated lives He chose to give, to sacrifice His only Son for? So what do we do? What can we offer someone whose heart has been ripped to shreds?
There is only one healing ointment that can touch a broken heart and begin to mend a crushed spirit. The source does not come from man but rather from the Creator of men – Jesus Christ. The search for comfort, peace, and Truth will only be found in Christ.
Philippians 4:6-7 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, shall guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
This doesn’t mean you will understand completely, it doesn’t mean you will heal completely, it doesn’t even mean you will not feel pain. It does mean that above all Jesus loves you, He cares, and He sorrows for the sin that causes tragedy.
I have heard the passionate pleas of some governing officials stating that words are not enough, action must be taken. You could go in many directions trying to corral lawlessness. But the center of our problem is sin, selfishness, greed, and pride. We cannot ‘fix’ these things with more laws or more security. God alone can, God alone has. His name is Jesus. These are the only words which are not empty; His is the only action which offers a real solution.
Because God loves us, in spite of our depravity, He gave His Son. My prayer is for those who know Jesus to lean on His grace, His mercy, His comfort, and His peace. The most important action we can take is to share the Truth of the Gospel boldly with all those who will hear. There is forgiveness in Christ alone. There is mercy in His compassion for the lost. And folks, as a nation we are so lost. It is evident we cannot do this ourselves. The best efforts have failed and have only resulted in blaming one another for failure, taking sides, and hurling accusations. It is not difficult to recognize the alarming repetition of crimes against humanity. But there is hope for change; there is hope for the future.
This hope is not corny, it’s not a crutch or weakness, and it’s not a religion. It is the only solution to man’s sinful behavior – it is God alone. Because of His Grace alone, through Faith alone, in Christ alone. Please pray for humility of heart that people recognize their need and willingly bow before their Savior.
Then through tragedy, God will be glorified.
John 14:27 “Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives, do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful.”
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Children Of His Calling: A Focus Heavenward Book
“The Lord is my light and my salvation – whom shall I fear?”
When David is encamped on all sides by his aggressors, he prays and makes his appeal to God. He rests in the hope he has for his future.
Psalm 17:8-11 “Keep me as the apple of the eye; hide me in the shadow of Thy wings, from the wicked who despoil me, my deadly enemies, who surround me. They have closed their unfeeling [heart]; with their mouth they speak proudly. They have now surrounded us in our steps; they set their eyes to cast [us] down to the ground”. The Psalmist’s conclusion through persecution is written in the last verse – “As for me, I shall behold Thy face in righteousness; I will be satisfied with Thy likeness when I awake” (v. 15).
Below are excerpts from Christianity Today, dated February 24, 2022. As Russia Invades Ukraine, Pastors Stay to Serve, Pray … a...... | News & Reporting | Christianity Today
“Please pray about Ukrainian Christians, that we will serve and live as the community of hope in a full sense of this term; that during these terrible times we would ignite more and more people to the relationships with God and His children, to the relationships of love, hope, encouragement, support; that our minds and characters would continue to transform into the character of Jesus Christ”, Taras Dyatlik.
Igor Bandura, vice president of the Baptist Union, conveys his supervisor’s two main prayer requests. “First, to stop the aggressor,” he said, “But then for peace of mind, to respond with Christian character and not from human hate.”
Vasyl Ostryi, a pastor at Irpin Bible Church 18 miles northwest of Kyiv, “When this is over, the citizens of Kyiv will remember how Christians have responded in their time of need,” he wrote for The Gospel Coalition. “We will shelter the weak, serve the suffering, and mend the broken. And as we do, we offer the unshakable hope of Christ and his gospel.”
The president of Ukraine Evangelical Theological Seminary outside Kyiv sent out this message to his students as they were instructed to shelter in place while military battled at a nearby airport, “The Lord is my light and my salvation – whom shall I fear?”, from Psalm 27.
The quotes and stories above are sobering. How often do we in the United States remember to thank God for religious freedom? We are allowed to share the gospel publicly, own Bibles, commentaries, and religious books of all sorts. We meet in homes and in buildings, gather in groups large and small, and worship God in song and prayer; we have access to in-depth teaching of God’s written word.
Notice the concerns of those in the above interviews. Little is about self and personal safety; nothing is about comfort; most is about opportunities to share hope and encouragement and to be a true witness of Jesus’ character.
This is the bigger picture, the greater picture. We can become so concerned and derailed by small inconveniences, that our focus and perspective is lost. Is our push, our ‘fight’, and our direction, the one given by God or is it fueled by personal affronts, fear of government encroachment upon our beliefs, and a sense of deservedness?
The believers in Ukraine are praying to survive real persecution. In Russia, speaking of the gospel and mentioning God in any public setting, other than in a designated church building which has been given permission to function by the government, is outlawed. And this is the country which threatens to subdue Ukraine.
As we pray for Ukraine, I wonder that we should take a close look at the example of those Christians quoted above. Right now the only real attack we face is the one which comes from selfishness and sin within. Would we be able to survive a real threat from the outside?
Please join me in prayer for Christians in Ukraine. As you read these passages from the Bible, consider your own response to difficulties. Through Christ, in all circumstances, we can have peace, comfort, confidence, security, protection, contentment, strength, assurance, perseverance, and hope. Let’s pay attention to encouraging one another in our time of peace; this practice will be a help in our time of trouble.
Psalm 23:4-6, “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil; for Thou art with me; Thy rod and Thy staff, they comfort me”.
Psalm 27:3-4, “Though a host encamp against me, my heart will not fear; though war arise against me, in [spite of] this I shall be confident. One thing I have asked from the LORD, that I shall seek: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to meditate in His temple”.
Psalm 34:7-9, “The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear Him, and rescues them. O taste and see that the LORD is good; how blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him! O fear the LORD, you His saints; for to those who fear Him, there is no want”.
Isaiah 41:10 'Do not fear, for I am with you; do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.'
Isaiah 54:17 "No weapon that is formed against you shall prosper; and every tongue that accuses you in judgment you will condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their vindication is from Me," declares the LORD”.
Read Paul’s words to the church in the midst of persecution and affliction – 2Thessalonians 3:3-5, “But the Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen and protect you from the evil [one.] And we have confidence in the Lord concerning you, that you are doing and will [continue to] do what we command. And may the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God and into the steadfastness of Christ”.
John 10:27-28 "My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me; and I give eternal life to them, and they shall never perish; and no one shall snatch them out of My hand”.
Focus Heavenward
When the things that seemed certain in your life blow apart, how will you keep on keeping on? Focus on Jesus. It is His strength which upholds us (Isaiah 41:10).
How many times can you get punched in the gut or at least feel like it? Looking at the definition of gut-wrenching, here are some of the synonyms I read: upsetting, saddening, heartbreaking, tragic, and distressful. Most of us can relate to the adjectives above. So, when the things that had seemed certain in life crumble, how do you keep on keeping on? These questions are at the forefront of my mind right now as I see people and familiarity blow apart at the seams. Relationships that have spanned decades are dissolving and questions and confusion are threatening to overtake any kind of normalcy that has been known.
In any traumatic event, the only answer we can rest on is Jesus. God’s word, His inerrancy, His promises, His immutability, and His plan remain our firm foundation. I feel as if I am on a roller coaster and cannot get off. The upheaval is real, the reality is scary, however, the strong arm that is holding me is secure – I will not fall, I will make it to the end of this crazy ride. I may be a bit unsteady at the end, but God will be waiting with outstretched hands. He is faithful (Hebrews 10:23).
So, how will I survive in one piece? The immediate answer after the obvious one above, is my focus. Because of God’s mercy and grace in my life, I have the power to choose. Will I focus on my own sorrow, panic, and loss, or will I determine to encourage others who are hurting? As in anything else in this world, it is not about me! Rather, it is about my purpose to glorify God through serving others. This does not mean I pretend all is well – circumstances are not good, and I say that emphatically. It does mean that God is the one directing His people to carry out His plan and He will prevail. With my soul, all is well, nothing has changed, God remains the same. Do we have concerns? Absolutely.
But will we allow our concerns to stifle our mission? I hope not. When life’s circumstances threaten to overtake your thoughts, there is a choice to make – either you will become paralyzed and anxious about each small detail of trouble, or you will be motivated to focus on Truth. Most believers are familiar with the passage in Philippians 4:6-8. It follows Paul’s exhortation to those in the church to live in harmony in the Lord, to be of the same mind. Churches had problems then also. Sometimes, we forget that the ‘church’ is made of people who are inherently sinful. Even in our desire to genuinely follow God, we err in our evaluation of a circumstance, in our perception of a problem, and in our implementation of God’s truths. This was true then, and it is true today.
The ‘church’ is not a building; it is not the pastors or elders; it is people who are striving to bring glory and honor to God, encouraging one another, discipling one another. The church is people who follow God. Let us remember who we follow. My confidence in men and institutions may be shaken, but my confidence in God is secure. Our faith and trust are placed in His power, and His love, and His plan does not waver. Christ is sovereign over all things (Ephesians 1:21) and all human institutions. He will cause all things to work together for good to those who love Him (Romans 8:28).
Back to Philippians 4:6-8, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, shall guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is o good repute if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, let your mind dwell on these things.”
How many times can you get punched in the gut or at least feel like it? More than we need to know, the Bible says man is born for trouble (Job 5:7). I am reminded to praise God for the ‘quiet’ times more than I do; to appreciate more fully those times without turmoil.
When the things that seemed certain in your life blow apart, how will you keep on keeping on? Focus on Jesus. It is His strength which upholds us (Isaiah 41:10).
How will you survive in one piece? You may become worn and tattered here on earth, but you have all you need in Him now and will one day be complete in your Savior’s presence (Colossians 2:10).
How will you remain focused on the mission God has given you?
Be anxious for nothing.
Pray with a thankful heart, let God know your concerns.
Surround yourself with His peace.
Keep centered on His blessings.
Focus Heavenward, eyes forward to the great promise of our Savior, the gift of eternal life in heaven where tears will be wiped away (Revelation 21:4).
If you are led to make a New Year’s resolution, let it be to follow Christ as Lord and Savior, seeking His truths through His word, and trusting in Him alone for eternal salvation.
A Promise to All Who Believe …
Acts 2:36-39 “Therefore let all the house of Israel know for certain that God has made Him both Lord and Christ – this Jesus whom you crucified.” Now when they heard [this], they were pierced to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Brethren, what shall we do?” And Peter [said] to them, “Repent, and let each of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. “For the promise is for you and your children, and for all who are far off, as many as the Lord our God shall call to Himself.”
Resolved –
Jesus is both Lord and Savior
Repentance of sin is required
A call to baptism is requested
Forgiveness through Christ is granted
The indwelling of the Holy Spirit is promised.
If you are led to make a New Year’s resolution, let it be to follow Christ as Lord and Savior, seeking His truths through His word, and trusting in Him alone for eternal salvation.
Turn from living for self to living for your Savior. Be willing to humble yourself before God, pray for His mercy and forgiveness, and profess yourself to be a follower of Christ. Answer the call to be baptized. The act of baptism will not save you but is a beautiful picture of your new life in Jesus – dead to the power of sin, now alive in the pursuit of sanctifying grace.
In Christ you are free, no longer controlled by worldly pleasures, your sin of the past, present, and future is forgiven. This is amazing grace! The wonder of the Gospel – that God would send His only Son as the ransom for the world.
We are not left to navigate this world on our own, instead we are given the Holy spirit to guide and direct us as we grow in holiness. There is now purpose.
A genuine resolution with a changed heart and desire to follow Christ will not fail. This is unlike so many resolutions that begin with fervor then lose their importance as time goes by. In Christ’s strength, a decision to live for Him will only grow stronger.
My New Year’s Resolution? A resolve to follow Christ more completely, to grow in His likeness, to share boldly His Gospel of salvation, and to bring Him honor and glory through my life. This is possible in His strength alone.
It is a Happy New Year – a magnificent new beginning, an opportunity to live one more day for Jesus!
Through Christ, all sin was atoned for, all sin past, present, and future.
John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life.
The question – How can one be born again?
The answer – Christmas, the birth of Jesus Christ.
The explanation – For God so loved the world. The reason we can celebrate Jesus’ birth is God’s love for mankind. We are imperfect, we mess up, we make the wrong choices, we even do bad things – this is called sin. No matter how hard we try we are unable to break through the bondage of sin on our own. God knows this, so out of His perfect love for us, God gave His only begotten Son. Jesus, born in human flesh, God incarnate, lived among us. Jesus – Teacher, Healer, Perfect in all His ways, Savior of the world, came to earth so we might live free from the power of sin now and free from the presence of sin in the future.
Do you believe?
The promise – Whoever believes in Him should not perish. Everyone who genuinely places their complete faith and trust in Jesus’ birth, death, and resurrection will absolutely not perish; we will not be under the hand and power of sin’s destruction. We will not be separated eternally from God. Faith and trust in the things of this world is transient. Disappointment will meet us at every corner. However one thing remains constant – faith and trust in an all-powerful and perfect God. Through Christ, all sin was atoned for, all sin past, present, and future. No one is ‘good enough’ however, everyone is welcome. Because God loves you – not based on your own merit – but based on His choice, you can choose to believe.
The result – Eternal life. Consider – perpetual suffering and destruction versus eternal joy in God’s presence.
The answer to Nicodemus’ question, ‘How can one be born again’ is Christmas. Through the greatest gift ever given, the birth of a Savior. Through God’s grace alone, through faith and trust alone, in Christ alone, we are saved from sin to eternal life.
Celebrate Jesus’ birth. I pray you are filled with the joy and peace of the Gospel.
“Therefore the LORD longs to be gracious to you, and therefore He waits on high to have compassion on you”.
The season of Christmas is upon us! Christmas is a cultural tradition but for those who believe in Jesus Christ, it is a celebration of His birth! Our family has recently been blessed with a new birth. This little boy, now three months old, gulps his milk without taking a breath. He acts as if he is starving. This is a great picture of what our longing for Jesus should look like. As you celebrate the traditions and Truth of Christmas, I pray your desire for the word grows. As you have opportunities to share the gift of Christ’s birth, I pray you also share the sacrifice of His death for us. There is great cause for celebration – because of God’s gift of grace in our lives, because of the faith He alone gives, because of Christ’s birth, death, and resurrection, we have hope now and for the future. Celebrate Christmas!
1Peter 2:2-3 like newborn babes, long for the pure milk of the word, that by it you may grow in respect to salvation, if you have tasted the kindness of the Lord.
We will look at the condition of our growth first, which is stated in verse three – if you have tasted the kindness of the Lord. Peter is not questioning his audience about their salvation; he is stating what the result should be because they have experienced God’s kindness. It is important for us to always remember it is only because of God’s grace in our lives that we know Him; it is only because of His work that we are able to grow in our faith and understanding of Him.
Consider how you might become discouraged with someone when you are trying to share Truth. It is disappointing when they do not understand what is so clear to you. Hopefully, you can respond with a spirit of compassion for their lost state and a spirit of gratitude for God’s work in opening your eyes and heart to Himself. The new Christians Peter is writing to have tasted God’s kindness. They have experienced the grace of God.
What happens when you taste something delicious? A desire is developed in us to repeat what we experienced; therefore we want more! There are thousands of companies that will offer a ‘free trial’ of something in order for you to sample their product. They know if you try it and like it, you are more likely to buy it. This is basic marketing, and it is built on a premise that we will want to repeat a positive experience.
When we are called by Christ to understand who He is, and we recognize His work and blessings in our lives, we will desire to know more. Consider the past trials in your life. Perhaps someone pointed you towards God and reminded you of the peace He offers. When you felt weak as if you could not go on, you may have experienced God’s strength and the rest that is found in Him alone. When you truly understand God as your source of peace and strength, you will seek Him.
What is your response to His grace in your life?
Tasting <geuomai> means to experience. We often relate experience to a feeling. Yet, it is much more. WordWeb defines experience as “the accumulation of knowledge or skill that results from direct participation in events or activities; the content of direct observation or participation in an event”.
To taste of God’s kindness is to know for certain of His work in your life because you have seen His power and experienced His peace in your heart.
You develop an expectation built from what has happened in the past. Your trust in Him deepens and your love for Him grows.
Remembering how God has worked in the past will grow your confidence in the plans He has for your future.
In Psalm 34:8 the word taste means to perceive,
“O taste and see that the Lord is good; how blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him!”
Are you aware of God’s blessings?
Do you take the time to recognize His hand in your life?
1 Peter 2:3 speaks of tasting the kindness of God. What is God’s kindness? The KJV uses the word gracious. It is translated from chrestos meaning goodness, gracious or kind. It comes from the root word, chraomai, which means to furnish what is needed.
God will provide to His children all that is needed, and often, so much more. The Brethren NT Commentary makes this comment on 1 Peter 2:3, “If they had ever felt the unparalleled mercy, peace, love and forgiveness of the Lord, they would not hesitate to lay aside all the evil and desire all the good”. Think upon the kindness of God, the mercy He continually extends towards His children.
Psalm 86:15 But Thou, O Lord, art a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abundant in lovingkindness and truth.
Psalm 136 is filled with thanksgiving to God for His mercies and recounts the Israelites sojourning through the wilderness and their release from captivity. God has extended His mercy to you and has released you from the captivity of sin. Consider what it means to be controlled by sin. Look at the world around you, the thinking and actions. What was the driving force in your own life before you were saved?
When we think of being kind, we might consider the quality of someone who is considerate and warm, thoughtful, and sympathetic; someone who shows tenderness and is helpful to others.
The kindness of God is so much more. It reaches to the lowest depths, to those most unworthy, even to those who blaspheme in return. His lovingkindness extends to those who are ungrateful and wicked.
Luke 6:35 But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High; for He Himself is kind to ungrateful and evil [men].
God’s kindness is purposed for our repentance.
Romans 2:4 Or do you think lightly of the riches of His kindness and forbearance and patience, not knowing that the kindness of God leads you to repentance?
Isa 30:18 Therefore the LORD longs to be gracious to you, and therefore He waits on high to have compassion on you. For the LORD is a God of justice; How blessed are all those who long for Him.
Ephesians 2:4-7
If you are God’s child, you have been pardoned; you are favored. When you taste the kindness of the Lord, your desire grows to know Him more. William Burkitt New Testament notes says, “It is but a taste of the sweetness of God and His word which a Christian partakes of in this life; satiety and satisfaction are reserved for another state”. This commentary reminds us that right now we see only a small example of God’s care for us; we will one day be fully engulfed in His perfect love.
Because you have tasted the kindness of the Lord,
You will put aside all malice, all guile, hypocrisy, envy, and all slander (1 Peter 2:1), and
You will, like newborn babes, long for the pure milk of the word, that by it you may grow in respect to salvation (1 Peter 2:2).
This is a great visual. Just as a newborn infant automatically turns its head towards its mother’s milk, a new believer will have an appetite for Truth. Picture an infant latching on to its mother’s breast. Their desire for milk is strong and their cry for it will pierce ears; once they are attached to their source of nourishment, they literally hang on! A baby or child instinctively wants to be close to those who will provide what is needed. If a newborn is not fed the proper nourishment, it will have a difficult time thriving. If a child does not receive enough calories, their brain development is affected. Many studies have documented that language development, memory, and IQ, are lower in children with poor nutrition. A child simply trusts, without questioning or analyzing, that their needs will be provided. A Christian, in order to make steady progress and expand in their knowledge and understanding of Christ, needs constant nourishment in the truth of God’s word.
The pure milk of the word – the spiritual truths of the gospel – is in direct contrast to those things listed in 1 Peter 2:1, malice, guile, hypocrisy, envy, and slander.
We are to desire God’s word as earnestly as a newborn yearns to be fed. The sin that once enticed us is replaced by the desire for spiritual nourishment from God’s truth. Matthew Poole’s NT Commentary states the comparison of verses 1 and 2, pointing out that longing for Truth is “in opposition to their former corrupt and unregenerate state, in which they were destitute of all spiritual life; and so this agrees, not only to young converts, but generally to all regenerate persons”.
We are in a life-long process of growing and maturing in our spiritual knowledge and understanding.
Romans 12:1 I urge you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, [which is] your spiritual service of worship.
Romans 6:13 and do not go on presenting the members of your body to sin [as] instruments of unrighteousness; but present yourselves to God as those alive from the dead, and your members [as] instruments of righteousness to God.
The word of God is our food for growth.
Ephesians 4:13-15 until we all attain to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a mature man, to the measure of the stature which belongs to the fulness of Christ. As a result, we are no longer to be children, tossed here and there by waves, and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, by craftiness in deceitful scheming; but speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in all [aspects] into Him, who is the head, [even] Christ,
“That is to say, if we be indeed believers, God has bestowed upon us a spiritual and incorruptible life; therefore, let us have done with the evil fruits of the old nature. We are born into a new world, let us cast aside the defiled and leprous garments of our former condition. Anger, deceit, and slander are as unbecoming in a Christian as the cerements of the grave would be unfit for a living man. It is ours, henceforth, to live upon the truth and to practice it, to rejoice in a gracious God, and act graciously ourselves. We desire to know the word of God, that by its sustaining power the life within us may be nurtured and made to advance to perfection”, Spurgeon Devotional Commentary.
Do you crave God’s truths more than anything else? Describe your craving. What does it look like? How do you satisfy it?
Do you want to understand and know Jesus more so you can serve Him well? How are you engaged in learning more about your Savior? How has this affected your serving?
Do you look to the unadulterated word of God, the pure truth written for us, without adding or subtracting? This means there is no excuse. The challenge is to act according to His word no matter the circumstances. So if you are insulted, offended, treated unfairly, bothered, or hurt, your response is to trust God and live to honor Him. In addition, we seek to follow God’s word even though it may be difficult. We do not choose some or part and ignore what we do not like or what does not fit our lifestyle.
1 Peter 2:23-24 and while being reviled, He did not revile in return; while suffering, He uttered no threats, but kept entrusting [Himself] to Him who judges righteously; and He Himself bore our sins in His body on the cross, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness; for by His wounds you were healed.
I pray you continue to grow in your fervency for His word. I pray your longing is for God’s truths. I pray that you develop an insatiable appetite to know and understand Him. I pray that through His strength and work in your life, you will combat sinful behavior and live to glorify God in all things.
God’s Word, through His Spirit, is the source of understanding and knowledge of His Truths; it is our complete guide to growing in righteousness.
Psalm 19:7-10 The law of the LORD is perfect, restoring the soul; The testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple. The precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart; The commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes. The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring forever; The judgments of the LORD are true; they are righteous altogether. They are more desirable than gold, yes, than much fine gold; Sweeter also than honey and the drippings of the honeycomb.
Without Jesus, none of this would matter. We would be unable to comprehend true love. Forgiveness and redemption would be unattainable. Celebrate Christ, God’s gift to the world, given because He loves us!
Thank you God for the celebration last Saturday of a grandson soon to be born! Thank you God for allowing me to witness my first grandchild be baptized by her dad, my first-born son. Thank you God for giving me 63 years of life and 34 years of living for You! I can think of nothing better than to share the Truth in love in the hope that we will celebrate together one glorious day in Heaven. I am –
Saved by GRACE …
Titus 3:4-7 But when the kindness of God our Savior and [His] love for mankind appeared, He saved us, not on the basis of deeds which we have done in righteousness, but according to His mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit, whom He poured out upon us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, that being justified by His grace we might be made heirs according to [the] hope of eternal life.
John 3:16 “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life.
Because of God’s kindness and compassion, I am saved. I am completely undeserving of God’s grace and nothing I have done could earn or add to this incredible gift!
Through FAITH …
Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is the assurance of [things] hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.
Ephesians 2:8-9 For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, [it is] the gift of God; not as a result of works, that no one should boast.
John 6:47 “Truly, truly, I say to you, he who believes has eternal life.
Romans 10:9-10 that if you confess with your mouth Jesus [as] Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you shall be saved; for with the heart man believes, resulting in righteousness, and with the mouth he confesses, resulting in salvation.
Because of God’s kindness and compassion, I am able to trust in His Son and claim the gift of salvation He offers!
In CHRIST ALONE …
Acts 4:12 “And there is salvation in no one else; for there is no other name under heaven that has been given among men, by which we must be saved.”
John 14:6 Jesus *said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father, but through Me.
1Titus 2:5 For there is one God, [and] one mediator also between God and men, [the] man Christ Jesus,
John 20:31 but these have been written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing you may have life in His name.
This is incredible and the most amazing gift ever! Thank you Jesus for saving me through Your act of mercy.
Memorial Day – traditionally an American holiday honoring those who died in service to our country. It was first called Decoration Day because people placed flowers on the graves of those who gave their lives as the ultimate sacrifice. This has given way to small American flags marking the grave of each fallen soldier.
Memorial Day is about freedom. Freedom comes with a cost. Sacrifice is involved, a willingness to put others before self, to give all for love of country. We are blessed to live in the United States of America. We still have the freedom to worship God openly, to gather together, to own and read a Bible, to speak and write of our Savior. Today, we celebrate the freedom we have in this country. Praise God for this freedom because of those who were willing to die.
However, there is an even greater freedom available – freedom from the power and penalty of sin – the power of sin to control us and the penalty of sin which separates us from God now and forever. God sent His only Son Jesus to battle the enemy and He did so victoriously yet at the ultimate cost. Perfect yet choosing to suffer, Jesus conquered sin and death to set us free. There is no greater love.
Praise God for the freedom we have from the power of sin because of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection. Might we lose freedoms on earth? Perhaps, someday. However, if you have accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior, your eternal freedom is secure.
Yesterday, we paid tribute to the fallen heroes who gave all so that we might live free on earth. Today and every day, let us give honor and glory to God for the sacrifice of His Son so that we might live forever with Him.
Colossians 1:13-14 For He delivered us from the domain of darkness, and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.
This is freedom.
Mothering is serious business.
2Timothy 1:5 For I am mindful of the sincere faith within you, which first dwelt in your grandmother Lois, and your mother Eunice, and I am sure that [it is] in you as well.
I am reminded of the incredible blessing it is to have the opportunity to invest in your children by example. Paul, in describing Timothy’s genuine faith, recounts the teaching Timothy received from his grandmother Lois and mother Eunice.
Whether you come from a Christian home where the fear of God was taught, or a sincere faith has begun within your own family, it is by God’s grace and design. I pray you have special women in your life who have invested their love for God in you.
I am so thankful for the number of wonderful examples; the many beautiful ‘Moms’ in my life! The need for constant daily care in young ones, changes to daily prayer as children grow and mature, and begin raising families of their own. The nurturing of a mother is incredibly valuable at all stages.
Thank you Lord, for Mothers! Thank you for the blessing of children which changed our own names to Mom. I pray you are honored in our care for the precious gifts of life you have entrusted to us, that they too will be recognized as having a sincere faith in Christ Jesus.
3John 1:4 I have no greater joy than this, to hear of my children walking in the truth.
Choosing to believe God does not exist and that you do not need Him does not change the reality of God’s existence and your dependence upon Him.
Last Saturday, we were blessed to be able to gather as a group of women for the first time in over a year. Masks on and appropriately distanced, we enjoyed a special time of worship, gleaning from God’s word, and sweet fellowship! I think most of us in attendance would have been happy to sit and sing together for hours. It is truly a blessing to be encompassed around those who are like-minded and striving to serve Christ in all things. There is a genuine love among this group of ladies I call my sisters in Christ. Saturday was a beautiful picture of a church family ready to jump in with every unique strength to provide an opportunity for growth and encouragement. We even had a delightful individually packaged lunch. I am certain I do not speak for myself when I say my heart is filled with gratitude to everyone involved in providing a ray of sunshine as we begin to recover from a turbulent storm. Most of all, my heart is filled with gratitude that God has placed me in a fellowship that desires to function according to God’s truths. Following is a copy of our study in the word together. I pray you are encouraged to grow in your understanding of God’s desire for His children to praise Him in all circumstances by sharing the message of His great love.
We would all agree we are living through a unique time in history. Who would have thought one year ago that we would be donning face coverings and keeping a distance of six feet from individuals not in our family? We have adjusted to doing things differently, and have learned to appreciate our outside spaces more than ever.
The Women’s Conference was among the first events to be cancelled in our church body last March. The focus was to be how we are equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 says, “All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work”. God’s word, His Truth, prepares us with everything necessary to carry out the plans He has for us to bring glory to His name. What does this mean? Each of us has at our fingertips all that we need to do His will. You might see the word adequate translated as perfect or complete in your Bible. Through God’s word, we are perfectly suited for every good work.
One of the breakout sessions at the conference was to be how each of us is equipped to evangelize, which is a commission from God to all believers. In John 15:16, Jesus states, “You did not choose Me, but I chose you, and appointed you, that you should go and bear fruit …”
Matthew 22:37-39, … ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind’. ‘This is the great and foremost commandment. ‘The second is like it, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself’”.
Look at the words above – God chose us, we are to love Him with all our heart, soul, and mind, and we are to love others as ourselves. The only way to love God with our whole being is to obey His commands. And He clearly says that we should go and bear fruit. The best way to genuinely love those around us is to share the message of salvation. Although many things have been altered within the last year, Truth remains constant. God’s word does not change, it is not interrupted by a pandemic, and God’s commands do not adjust to fit the world’s thinking.
We will address the subject of evangelism and consider what it looks like even as we continue to move through the lasting effects of Covid 19. Right now, you are either smiling behind your mask and excited to hear about sharing the Gospel, or you are squirming a little in your seat because sharing the Gospel is something other people do.
But, consider how you were saved. Did someone open their mouth and talk with you? Perhaps a person’s actions, kind words, and care of others attracted you. When you felt your worst, did another individual share the hope of Jesus? Remember the excitement you felt when God chose to open your heart to His Truths. Like many of you, I can picture exactly where I was, there is a defined moment, a snapshot in my mind of when God opened my eyes. I remember how in an instant the weight of the difficulties surrounding me were no longer suffocating me. The circumstances did not change but my focus did. It truly is incredible, and it is undeniable when God transforms a soul.
When we think of going out to share the Gospel, we often picture meeting individuals we do not know. This type of interaction involves a smile and a handshake. Well, for the past year, we have been wearing face coverings, no one can see our smile and our words are muffled with our mouths covered. We have had strong encouragement during the spikes of this virus to stay at home as much as possible, which puts a damper on meeting people, and we have been asked to avoid physical contact which practically eliminates the use of a handshake.
However, few of us are completely isolated. Weather permitting, we can spend time outside. We shop for groceries and put fuel in the car. We use phones and social media. We have friends, family members, and neighbors. There are opportunities!
People are struggling as they deal with uncertainty in the world. Unexpected deaths, the loss of work, weddings either cancelled or guest lists cut to a minimum, and young moms balancing their children’s education at home along with other responsibilities, are circumstances that many can relate to. The answer to every concern and every struggle is Jesus. When you focus on your future in heaven, your perspective changes from being overly concerned with your own circumstances and the current problems in the world, to being consumed with the blessing of your salvation in Christ and your purpose in Him.
Certainly, just being able to gather today as a unit of women who love God and desire to serve Him and each other, is a wonderful blessing. But there are a few goals for our time together.
1st – That you would be greatly encouraged, reminded of your value in Christ and God’s plan for you to be His ambassador. As you grow in your own understanding of the Gospel, your excitement to share the hope you have with those around you will increase.
2nd – That whatever fear you may have of sharing the Gospel would be replaced with boldness so that you would be ready at any moment to share how God is working in your life, and to speak of the peace and certainty He offers.
Many of us share opinions freely yet we become timid when talking about the Gospel. This is interesting because the Gospel is the only thing we can be 100% confident in. Opinions change; the Gospel does not. Opinions are often short-sighted; the Gospel provides a clear view of our future. Opinions can be wrong; the Gospel is 100% Truth.
3rd – That you embrace your responsibility of stewardship in being called a child of God.
The first step in evangelism is the need for your own understanding and acceptance of the Gospel. You are unable to share what you do not possess.
Listen again to 2 Timothy 3:17, which says, “that the man of God may be adequate”. There is a condition – Paul, in writing to Timothy reminds him of his position as a minister of the Gospel – being a man of God. Only those who are righteous before God, who derive their purpose from Him, who are under His instruction, who are united to Him and approved of Him, are complete or adequate for every good work. We can read and learn about many things. Knowledge is literally at our fingertips. But, until information is acted upon, it remains speculation. Real understanding involves comprehension and evidence. Genuine salvation is more than knowledge or memorized scripture or a one-time prayer. It is a heart change orchestrated by God. It is imperative that you personally understand what it means to be saved. Think carefully about the following questions – questions many of you have heard before – and take a moment to write your answers down.
Do you know for certain that when you die you will go to heaven?
If God were to ask you why He should let you into heaven, what would you say?
These questions are important because they help determine the basis of your trust.
Heaven is a free gift – it cannot be earned, and it is undeserved.
It cannot be earned because it is free; it is undeserved because we are unworthy. We are unworthy because we are sinners. This is no surprise as it is not extremely difficult to recognize sin. During the last year, it appears that man’s ability to sin has become magnified in hostility. Rioting at one point was almost expected in many major cities as individual rights were demanded. Although we may not be looking to break windows and damage property, each day we all fight the desire to act selfishly. How often do you fail to do the right thing, to act in a pleasing manner, to say words that encourage, to think thoughts that are uplifting?
Man is unable to save himself from the grip of sin. The best individual we might think of is still imperfect. God alone is perfect.
God loves us, but He is also just. Because He is just, He must punish sin. Sin is anything that goes against God’s perfect will or neglects to do His perfect will. God is perfect and holy and our sin acts as a chasm that will separate us from God for eternity.
We need to stop here for just a moment. Eternal separation from God is huge and needs to be clearly explained. Choosing to believe God does not exist and that you do not need Him does not change the reality of God’s existence and your dependence upon Him. I could choose to believe that Covid 19 does not exist but that would not change the reality of over 2 million deaths worldwide, (collective numbers from CDC, WHO, updated 03/06/21). People may think they are okay without God, so it seems no big deal to talk of separation from Him for eternity. But then, God’s power is not fully understood. He is at this very moment holding the world together, patiently calling His children to Himself. Those who do not recognize their need for God, and even those who reject Him, are the recipients of His general blessings. The air we breathe, the atoms that hold all things together, the sun which provides warmth, and everything good in our lives is from God. He will one day, release those who have denied Him to the full fury of sin and evil. Separation from God is a horror unimaginable. Without forgiveness of our sin, we are destined to this horror.
God is the source of all blessings, all that is good. Consider the fruits of the Spirit listed for us in Galatians 5:22-23: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. The opposites are hatred, sorrow, war, anxiety, cruelty, distrust, pride, and unrestraint. Add to this list, complete and unrelenting darkness in heart, mind, and soul. We are nothing without God and we can do nothing without God.
Man has an incredible dilemma! However, man has an incredible God! God chose to send His Son, Jesus Christ, into the world to die for the sin of all mankind. Jesus is the only solution to our problem of sin. Through faith in Jesus, we are promised eternal life in the presence of God. Our penalty has been paid in full through Christ’s suffering, death, and resurrection. The power of sin’s control no longer reigns in a believer’s life. Instead, Christ reigns, and in Him we have the ability to push off sin and put on righteousness. Knowing the intellectual facts of who God is and what He has done for mankind does not save. Saving faith is not a box of Band-Aids that temporarily fixes things when we lose our way. Saving faith is not one of the puzzle pieces that assures our future in heaven – it is the single key that opens the door. It is not something we combine with our title or accomplishments. Often, God will strip away any identity or trust we have in this world so that we focus on Him alone. Think! How do you desire others to know you? Is it with a title earned on earth or the title given to you by God in heaven as His child?
Saving faith requires a heart of humility, and recognition of need. Saving faith places complete trust, at all times and in all circumstances, in the work of Christ alone.
This is the gospel. This is what we need, and this is what others need to hear. Although it is God alone who saves, we are commissioned as His children to share the gift we have received in Him. We can have complete confidence in God - He is who He says He is; in Christ He has done what He said He would do, and He will fulfill every promise He has made. The result of being called by God to understand and accept His free gift of salvation is absolutely life changing – it is a miracle! When you genuinely understand God’s plan of salvation and its significance to your own eternal destination, you will be compelled to tell others. You will be excited to share your hope.
Psalm 96:2 Sing to the LORD, bless His name; Proclaim good tidings of His salvation from day to day. Tell of His glory among the nations, His wonderful deeds among all the peoples.
Mark 16:15 … Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.
Most of us get notices for different sweepstakes that offer a variety of prizes including money, mansions, and travel. Consider for a moment if you were to win one of these sweepstakes. Would you tell others? I surmise your excitement would be difficult to contain. If given the opportunity, you would likely be more than willing to publicize your story to all who would listen. Why? Because it is exciting! It is unexpected! It is completely undeserved since you did nothing to earn it!
Think about what you have In Christ – purpose, peace, and the promise of an eternal home in heaven. It is impossible to comprehend the full extent of our blessings. Because of God’s mercy, we have been saved from wrath and showered with unmerited favor. Talk about exciting! Talk about undeserved! How much of your conversation is about the unfathomable riches of Christ? (Ephesians 3:8).
Some of you may hesitate to share the Gospel because you anticipate a negative reaction from others. We readily speak of our families, work, the weather, and even politics, because everyone talks about these things. These things are acceptable points of conversation. But religion, or faith – now we are getting into a touchy area! People who are talkative and friendly will quickly shut down or may even become agitated when the subject of eternal destination is mentioned. Why? Because it is a concern that reaches deep into the mind and heart of man. It is often easier to ignore a problem, pretending it does not exist, than to address it. Do you hold back from proclaiming Christ out of fear of the response you may receive, or because others may think you are strange? This is a valid thought!
If you heard the sermon a few weeks ago, you will remember that Paul was accused of being crazy – literally out of his mind – because he preached the message of Christ’s resurrection (Acts 26:24). Paul’s answer to this accusation is recorded in Acts 26:25; 29, “I am not out of my mind, most excellent Festus, but I utter words of sober truth. … I would to God that whether in a short or long time, not only you, but also all who hear me this day, might become such as I am”.
If you are saved you are strange! The world is not going to embrace you. You may be labeled crazy! The Bible says you are an alien, not belonging to this world! (Ps 69:8, Phil 3:20). Rewind over forty years ago. I was working back office in a medical practice. The office manager was a young woman a few years older than me. She was nice. Always considerate, spoke positively, never took part in gossip, bad language, or complaining. I was a bit uncomfortable around her because her conversation always reverted to God, her involvement in church, and invitations to join her at some event in her fellowship. (At that time in my life, I distinctly remember thinking what the heck is a ‘fellowship’ – some group in the desert gathering to sing and talk about God? … and here we are!) She was one of those people you hear about who are weird enough to actually knock on doors and speak with strangers about Jesus! (And this I have also done!) Her whole life centered around God. In my mind, she was a ‘religious freak’. To my unsaved soul, she went way beyond personal boundaries. Now I look back at this and think of her testimony. She was one of the first people that God used to begin peeling the blinders off my eyes. Aliens have often been illustrated as little green figures with large bulbous heads and teardrop shaped eyes. I think this is all wrong. I worked with an alien in that office. I suggest that aliens look a lot like you and me. So what do we do with this fear of others thinking we are strange? Choose to embrace who you are in Christ, set apart for His purpose. The KJV of 1 Peter 2:9 calls us “a peculiar people”. You should be markedly different from those around you who do not know Jesus. If someone thinks you are strange or crazy because of your faith, receive it as a compliment! Pray as Paul did, that they join you!
Perhaps we will encounter roadblocks, even hostility when we speak of Jesus. Perhaps relationships will feel strained, perhaps doors will close, but where we see hindrances, God provides opportunities. How can we not share the only real hope available to a world that is fearful, turbulent, and sinking under the weight of sin? We can leave the details to God as He will supply a way for us to follow His charge to evangelize.
The Gospel is the accurate account of who God is, what He did, who man is and what he needs, who Christ is and what He offers. The Gospel does not need to be wrapped up in a pretty package to attract people to its value. It stands on its own. Jesus was not wrapped in a pretty package in order to attract sinners, nor was His message.
If you are God’s child, saved by His grace through faith, you are fully equipped to share the Gospel.
Consider what it means to be equipped for something. Being equipped means you are provided with what is necessary, useful, or appropriate, (WordWeb). All of God’s children are equipped for one purpose – to bring glory and honor to His name. Often, evangelism is thought of as the gift others have, or that special training is needed. I pray you are challenged to think otherwise. You might feel you are too shy, but ponder this question – How many words each day do you speak and how many of those words are about Christ? Evangelism is simply the enthusiastic speaking and advocacy of the gospel. Your words and actions are the vehicles God uses to extol His praise.
Galatians 2:20 says, “I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the [life] which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me, and delivered Himself up for me”.
Living for Christ includes telling others of His blessings and forgiveness. We readily speak about those we love, and we promote the things which are most important to us. Nothing is more important than the power of the gospel which is able to save a person from an eternity of evil, suffering, pain, and turmoil in hell. There are programs such as Evangelism Explosion which use an effective outline and in-class training for sharing the Gospel. These classes help build your confidence, but the message is not that you must take a course to speak of Christ. You are absolutely qualified to share the truth of God’s word and you are expected to share it, because you are God’s child. You were created by God’s hand to glorify Him, to share the good news of His grace and mercy in a fallen world.
Every believer is able to speak of the change God has wrought in their life through His Son. This is your testimony. How did God open your eyes and heart to know Him? How has your thinking and purpose changed? Your testimony is irrefutable and can be shared with complete confidence. It is your personal statement of firsthand evidence of God’s work in your life. It is unique to you and carries the value of a saved soul. You do not need a certificate or a specialized degree from a college or university in order to speak of God’s amazing grace. Before the foundation of the world was formed, God chose you to be an heir of His promised kingdom, (Ephesians 1:3-6; 1 Peter 1:3-5). He has gifted you with His Holy Spirit and empowered you with His Truth.
Are you willing to speak about God? We are commanded to share the Gospel, so perhaps a more correct question would be are you willing to obey? When we sincerely pray for God’s will to be carried out in our lives, we can expect His answer. Since God’s purpose is for us to proclaim His glory, He will provide what is needed to fulfill His command. Take a deep breath, trust God’s direction, open your mouth, proclaim His goodness, and be blessed in your obedience. Sharing the hope you have is the greatest offering of love you can give to another individual.
We should be ready at any moment to talk of our testimony, how God is working in our life, and the peace and certainty He offers in an ever-changing world.
Listen to Paul’s exhortation to Timothy, “…preach the word; be ready in season [and] out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with great patience and instruction. … do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry”, (2 Timothy 4:1-2,5).
To “be ready in season and out of season” literally means when it is convenient and opportunities are present, and when opportunities are not present. This includes when it is inconvenient, unfavorable, unseasonable, and untimely. We can affirm that during this pandemic it is inconvenient, the conditions are unfavorable, and the timing is not the best – at least in our thinking. However, where we might see limitations, God has no boundaries. We are to be ready, literally in an instant, to stand for the Gospel, to respond to opportunities handed to us and to create opportunities with those around us.
John 20:21 – You are God’s ambassador, His representative.
1 Peter 3:15 – You are to be a defender of the faith, making a plea for the gospel.
Matthew 4:19, Luke 5:10 – You are a fisher of men, seeking to take others captive for the gospel.
1 Corinthians 3:9 – You are a laborer for the gospel, a fellow worker for Truth.
Each of these descriptions requires effort, active involvement in sharing what you have because of God’s great grace in your life. There are no exceptions, we are to be bold in our speech concerning Christ. 2 Corinthians 3:12 reads, “Having therefore such a hope, we use great boldness in [our] speech”. The translation of boldness means we are to be out-spoken, honest, and straightforward, having confidence in the Truth. Think of your blessings in Christ. The motivation in sharing hope with those around us is a grateful heart desiring to speak of God’s glory!
Psalm 115:1 Not to us, O LORD, not to us, but to Thy name give glory because of Thy lovingkindness, because of Thy truth.
Our lives are not about us, but about Him. We are not here to focus on ourselves, Christ has called us to care for others. Covid is not an excuse to hide in a corner and forget our purpose. If you are using it as an excuse now, once it is passed, you will replace it with another. In all circumstances we are to be actively sharing Christ.
1Peter 4:11 Whoever speaks, [let him speak,] as it were, the utterances of God; whoever serves, [let him do so] as by the strength which God supplies; so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belongs the glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.
A feeling of dread, hopelessness, and anxiety has settled in many minds during the time of this pandemic. The world offers no concrete solutions. There is a loss of confidence in leaders. We see unrestrained behavior in those who are discontent. But you have the solution – the only solution to calm unrest.
What is more important?
Your friendships on earth or your friend’s eternity in heaven?
Someone thinking you are ‘weird’ because you speak of Jesus, or someone wondering why you did not care enough about them to share about Christ?
Keeping silent because you fear you will not say the right words or choosing to honor God with your best efforts of sharing His Gospel?
1Corinthians 1:9 God is faithful, through whom you were called into fellowship with His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.
1John 3:21 Beloved, if our heart does not condemn us, we have confidence before God;
You have been called by God to proclaim His excellencies – His unconditional love, mercy, wisdom, power, goodness, righteousness, and truth.
Isaiah 43:21 "The people whom I formed for Myself, will declare My praise.
Consider all the things that fill your mind, the people and circumstances you speak of freely. Your family, work, travel, interests, and the many things that comprise your daily life, are all subjects of conversation. In a study published by Scientific American, it was estimated that the average words spoken in a day, is around 16,000, (Gender Jabber, Nikhil Swaminathan, 2007). Out of all the words you speak in a day, how many are about God and what He has done?
Recall the changes in your own life that God has produced as He faithfully reveals Himself to you. The contrast of how you used to think and what used to guide your actions should be as different as night and day. In Women’s Bible Study a few weeks ago I asked the ladies to share two words – one which described them before they were saved and one which describes the change they have seen. We were all encouraged as we heard contrasts like fear turned to peace, and having no direction changed to having a purpose. This transformation of your soul is not of your own doing but a result of God’s love. Because of God‘s choice to seek you, your eyes have been opened to truths you were unable to see beforehand! (Colossians 1:13-14)
Say you were born physically blind. Others could describe a bright afternoon to you, yet if you had never seen light, your ability to understand the true beauty of a sun-drenched sky would be impossible. Then, the most trustworthy and knowledgeable physician in the world chose to perform a procedure on you which gave you sight. You would tell everyone about this great miracle! You would not hesitate to speak of the incredible gift you had been given. Your life would be changed forever, and you would live in gratitude to the physician who had given you the ability to see.
God is our great physician! (Mark 2:17). You were in total darkness – engulfed in the power of sin and destined to a life of misery. You have been delivered to light – the understanding of who God is and what He has done. Sin has no dominion over you. Your life is now filled with trust, faith, comfort, promise, blessing, purpose, and certain hope, because of God’s grace and mercy.
Ephesians 5:8 for you were formerly darkness, but now you are light in the Lord; walk as children of light
Matthew 5:16 "Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.
Philippians 2:14-15 Do all things without grumbling or disputing; that you may prove yourselves to be blameless and innocent, children of God above reproach in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you appear as lights in the world,
Each of these verses speaks of evangelism: Walk as light, let your light shine, and appear as lights in the world.
If you now walk in the understanding of who God is, and your need for Him – you are His possession, He has called you to receive His mercy and favor – not because of who you are or what you have done but because of who He is and what He has done. This understanding should invoke a heart of gratitude. True gratitude, having a right appreciation for something given, leads to action.
Look back to your answers to the questions I asked when we began. Do you have assurance of your eternal future in heaven? Is your soul trust in Christ alone? If none of this has made sense to you and you are bored out of your mind, looking at how you might quietly be able to leave, perhaps your heart is not yielded to Jesus. There is a remedy – admit your need, and humbly ask Him to accept you as His child. Jesus will take your burdens and give you peace. If sin is keeping you from Him, confess your sin, ask His forgiveness, and move on in His grace. There are no magic words to say, only a sincere desire to know and please God. If you do pray that God would enter your heart, please tell someone so we can rejoice with you and encourage you.
If you are saved, your witness is a heart devoted to God, words that proclaim His praise, and a life that testifies of His power. You have been entrusted with the message of the Gospel. Paul tells Timothy, “Retain the standard of sound words which you have heard from me, in the faith and love which are in Christ Jesus. Guard, through the Holy Spirit who dwells in us, the treasure which has been entrusted to [you]”, 2 Timothy 1:13-14. The Gospel is the most valuable thing you can possess, and its integrity needs to be guarded. It is not to be kept to oneself, but it is to be represented correctly. As a steward of the Gospel, you have a responsibility. Your words and actions are a powerful message. They can either draw others in to know more about God or push them away.
Right now, at this time in our history, what is the testimony of God’s power in your life? How are your reactions, to a stressful situation, speaking of God’s blessings? As businesses and schools begin to open up again and life begins to return to a sense of normalcy, reports of individuals feeling apprehensive and anxious are surfacing.
You have, in your possession, the news of the most valuable gift available to mankind. It is the only solution that offers true hope – a glorious future, strength to overcome adversities in the world, a calm assurance in the midst of difficulties, and peace that surpasses understanding.
You have been saved, not for your own benefit, but for the purpose of praising God, not for yourself, but to share the miracle of your salvation with others so that they too might sing of God’s glory. The gift of your salvation is not to be hoarded!
Matthew 28:19 says, "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit,
You have the incredible privilege of sharing the Gospel. When you move forward in faith to speak of God, you become the recipient of joy and blessing, knowing you have followed your Lord and Savior in obedience.
In the book of Acts, the apostle Paul says, “But I do not consider my life of any account as dear to myself, in order that I may finish my course, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify solemnly of the gospel of the grace of God” (Acts 20:24).
Often, I feel inadequate to perfectly explain the precious truths in God’s word. My understanding and delivery are lacking. The things I could have said, or should have said; what I did not explain well and what I forgot, can easily act as a personal discouragement, and tempt me to be silent. Perhaps you can relate. In spite of ourselves, God will use us. It is His power, His truth and His work that transforms a heart. God will take our meager efforts and use them for His glorious intention. 2 Corinthians 3:5, “Not that we are adequate in ourselves to consider anything as [coming] from ourselves, but our adequacy is from God”.
There is a section of scripture that comes to mind most every time I have the opportunity to speak of God’s gift to mankind. Beginning in Exodus Chapter 3, God called Moses to deliver the Israelites from their oppression under the hands of the Egyptians. Moses questions God’s choice of being able to use him (Ex 3:11). God assures Moses He will be with him. Throughout Chapter 3 and 4, Moses continues to focus on his own weaknesses instead of God’s power. Finally, even after God continually displays His power through miracles, Moses almost begs God to release him of the task set before him. Moses reasons that he is not a good communicator, it is difficult for him to talk. God then reminds Moses that He is well aware of Moses’ deficiencies. Listen to Exodus 4:11-12, And the Lord said to him, “Who has made man’s mouth? Or who makes [him] dumb or deaf, or seeing or blind? Is it not I, the Lord? "Now then go, and I, even I, will be with your mouth, and teach you what you are to say."
One reason we choose to overlook the command of sharing the gospel is we focus on our inability to know all the answers. We will never have all the answers! But we do have everything we need.
God’s Word – His undeniable truths, which is His complete testimony to mankind of His love, forgiveness, and faithfulness,
The Holy Spirit – who gives us understanding of God’s word, and direction in what to say, and
Our Testimony – the irrefutable and continued evidence of God’s work in our life.
You might feel you do not have the gift of evangelism. However, God calls each of us to share His Gospel. He calls us to trust in His work and His strength as He uses us for His glory. We need to reach out to others, to build friendships with the hope of sharing Truth, and encourage those who are struggling, to set their eyes on Jesus. When we say we can’t, we are relying on ourselves. In Christ, we can.
Colossians 4:5-6 Conduct yourselves with wisdom toward outsiders, making the most of the opportunity. Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned, [as it were,] with salt, so that you may know how you should respond to each person.
1Peter 3:15 But sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always [being] ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence;
We can allow the fear of how men perceive us to dictate our actions. Rather, we need to have our words and actions guided by our reverence and fear of God. (Isaiah 8:13)
Jesus proclaims in John 14:16, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father, but through Me”.
Those you love and those you come in contact with, need to hear about Jesus. The world is so desperately lost in its sin and selfishness. I pray that the majority of our 16,000 words each day are about God’s excellencies. You are fully equipped in God’s grace to evangelize. Use your words to testify to His glory. Live your life to bring Him honor. Let the excitement for what God has given you in Christ, fill your heart with gratitude which compels you to share the hope you have with others.
If you are confused, in Christ you will find clarity. If you are hurting, in Christ you will find hope. If you are uncertain, in Christ you will find confidence. In an ever-changing world, Christ remains constant.
“The Gospel is a fact, therefore tell it simply; it is a joyful fact, therefore tell it cheerfully; it is an entrusted fact, therefore tell it faithfully; it is a fact of infinite moment, therefore tell it earnestly; it is a fact about a Person, therefore preach Christ”, Archibald Brown, Spurgeon’s successor.
Thank you to my very determined and intelligent husband who was able to decipher a difficult computer program for formatting and editing! “Steeped In God’s Grace” is now available in printed form as well as digital through Amazon.com. Please leave a review and/or rating if you are inclined. I pray you are encouraged and challenged as we continue to walk in God’s direction.
Focus Heavenward,
Sharyn.
As we seek to know God and follow Him, our actions on the outside will reflect the change God has wrought on the inside. The inside transformation of our soul will show in the outward actions of our life.
1Peter 1:14-15 As obedient children, do not be conformed to the former lusts [which were yours] in your ignorance, but like the Holy One who called you, be holy yourselves also in all [your] behavior.
Obedience demands that we do not follow worldly ways. Instead, we are to live holy in all our behavior (v. 15-16).
Romans 12:2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.
Ephesians 5:1 Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children;
What does it mean to be holy?
We are to be physically and morally blameless. We are to strive to be like Jesus. This is only possible through His redemption of our soul. God is holy, He is perfect and pure. He is the One who called your name as His child. He is the one who has called you into understanding and faith in Christ. As His child, receiving all the benefits of His salvation, you also receive the means to be like Him, to imitate His character.
Specifically, what is mentioned is behavior, or all manner of conversation (KJV). People aptly take on the persona of those they admire. Look around and notice that styles of dress, speech, and even food begin with following someone’s example that another thought highly of. If you profess to follow Jesus, it is imperative that your entire life points to His holiness. We need to learn about Him so that we can imitate Him. We have examples to follow throughout the word of God. Read what Paul tells the Corinthian church, “Be imitators of me, just as I also am of Christ” (1 Corinthians 11:1). It is impossible for us to be perfectly holy, yet we are to endeavor to follow the pattern set before us and practice holiness in every area of our life. We are holy because we belong to God; our actions should increasingly speak of our inward salvation. Our thoughts should be held captive by Truth, and our words should honor God. As we seek to know God and follow Him, our actions on the outside will reflect the change God has wrought on the inside. The inside transformation of our soul will show in the outward actions of our life.
2Corinthians 7:1 Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all defilement of flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.
Notice the word all in 1 Peter 1:15. All means everything, it is inclusive to your whole behavior. Matthew Poole’s Commentary has this explanation of all, “with whomsoever ye converse, believers or infidels, friends or enemies, relations or stranger; and in whatsoever condition ye are in, peace or trouble, prosperity or adversity”.
How are you seeking holiness?
Philippians 3:14 I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 2:12-16 So then, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for [His] good pleasure. Do all things without grumbling or disputing; that you may prove yourselves to be blameless and innocent, children of God above reproach in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you appear as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I may have cause to glory because I did not run in vain nor toil in vain.
Focus Heavenward.
certain hope, the promise of eternal life, joy, peace, gratitude, and purpose
The day we traditionally celebrate as Christmas has passed. Yet, the gift keeps on giving. God gave His Son that we might be ransomed from a life of futility to a life of freedom. No matter how much time, effort, intelligence, or work, we may invest in becoming a successful human being, we simply are unable to attain a level of perfection. Perfection means we are without flaw or defect. Striving towards a goal of holiness is admirable yet without Christ, living a life pleasing to God is impossible. The things we might do, including our works and our efforts, the religion we might identify with, the words we say, all fall short without having accepted the gift of Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.
The good news is the gift of God’s Son is available to all who will receive it. Not just at Christmas, but whenever a heart reaches out to humbly accept the love God offers. We do not need to ‘clean up our act’ before bowing before Him, He will clean it up for us! We cannot check off boxes of completion and then turn our resume in for acceptance; we only need to recognize we are unworthy of the position of adoption then reach out and accept His redemption. There is endless striving and futility in trying to find true fulfillment in the world through our own efforts. We will never quite get there, there will always be one more step, one more goal to accomplish.
But, in Christ there is freedom as we abandon trust in our own efforts for what has already been done. Suddenly, purpose becomes clear, peace abounds even in trials, and gratitude fills a heart with joy for the precious gift of Jesus. Time, effort, intelligence, and work become offerings of praise as God transforms our life as His adopted children.
Galatians 4:4-5 says, “But when the fulness of the time came, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the Law, in order that He might redeem those who were under the Law, that we might receive the adoption as sons”. This is Christmas, this is the gift each of us has been offered. My friend, have you reached out to accept this gift? Will you let go of self in order to gain a life with Christ? This may seem scary, however it is unbelievably amazing! Picture walking through a boggy, unchartered marshland with peril every step of the way compared to walking on a path already laid out for you with bridges built over swamps, detours clearly marked to avoid danger, and rest stops to gain strength to continue. Which would you choose?
What is life with Christ – certain hope, the promise of eternal life, joy, peace, gratitude, and purpose. There is no greater gift than Jesus, Emmanuel – God with us (Matthew 1:23). “And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth”, John 1:14.
What about your gifts, talents, interests, education, and all the time and effort you have invested in the things you enjoy? Hang on because God will use all He has blessed you with for His glory. You will find yourself empowered to accomplish things you never dreamt possible when you seek to please God in your efforts. You will be astounded at the peace that fills your heart even through difficult circumstances.
John 6:47 says, “Truly, truly, I say to you, he who believes has eternal life”. Entrust your life to Christ and accept His promise of eternal life. And have a true celebration of Christ’s birth all year long.
There is one thing certain and One we can find rest in. There is peace and assurance when we look to Jesus.
Focus on Christ
One friend lost her Dad and her grandmother within a few months. Another said his last good-byes to his wife before she died. These were not Covid related deaths, however the sting of loss has been made more difficult in a year filled with uncertainty and unrest in general. Everyone has been touched by this pandemic in one way or another. We have all seen fear or disappointment in the eyes of people we know and love. Weddings have been cancelled or limited, births were quietly announced and plans of all kinds were put on hold. Wildfires caused additional disruption, loss of property and life. Unemployment percentages are high, and violence has increased. Most readers will be able to add several items to this list of challenges. I have not even mentioned our recent presidential election. There are loved ones we have not been able to see, and many have celebrated their long-awaited graduation from school on-line. Birthdays, anniversaries, and retirements have quickly passed – all without the acknowledgement we are accustomed to. Wearing a mask and meeting outside and virtual classrooms have become the norm. And 2020 keeps on giving! I received a text yesterday that one of my dear friends got bit by a dog while walking! What next?
The test is real! Will we remain steadfast and focused on Christ? There is one thing certain and One we can find rest in. There is peace and assurance when we look to Jesus. He was born in a stall, a most unassuming place. Yet, His birth brings the hope of salvation to all mankind. The truth of the Gospel – redemption of mankind from sin to eternal life – does not change. Look through the lens of hope and you will see reason for joy.
2 Corinthians 4:16-18, “Therefore we do not lose heart, but though our outer man is decaying, yet our inner man is being renewed day by day. For momentary, light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison, while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen; for the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal.
Do not lose heart! Our strength does not come from outside but inside.
Ephesians 3:14-19, “For this reason, I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name, that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with power through His Spirit in the inner man; so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; [and] that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ which surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled up to all the fulness of God”.
Our burdens are small in comparison to the work God produces through them.
Romans 8:18, “For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed to us”.
Keep your focus on things which have eternal value.
2 Corinthians 5:1-9, “For we know that if the earthly tent which is our house is torn down, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. For indeed in this [house] we groan, longing to be clothed with our dwelling from heaven; inasmuch as we, having put it on, shall not be found naked. For indeed while we are in this tent, we groan, being burdened, because we do not want to be unclothed, but to be clothed, in order that what is mortal may be swallowed up by life. Now He who prepared us for this very purpose is God, who gave to us the Spirit as a pledge. Therefore, being always of good courage, and knowing that while we are at home in the body we are absent from the Lord – for we walk by faith, not by sight – we are of good courage, I say, and prefer rather to be absent from the body and to be at home with the Lord. Therefore also we have as our ambition whether at home or absent, to be pleasing to Him”.
We are not here for our own welfare, happiness, honor, or benefit; we are here to offer abundant praise to God for His mercy. It is all for His glory.
Merry Christmas! Be joyful as you contemplate your future in Christ. Christmas is a time for celebration of the greatest gift given to all mankind. Difficulty, burdens, and pandemics do not change the value and truth of the Gospel. This was the case thousands of years ago and it is the case now. There is no better gift you can give to those you love than sharing the reason for your hope.
The picture of God’s celestial heavens directs our eyes towards His power and creation.
Psalm 19:1-3, “The heavens are telling of the glory of God; and their expanse is declaring the work of His hands. Day to day pours forth speech, and night to night reveals knowledge. There is no speech, nor are there words; their voice is not heard.”
The heavens celebrate God’s glory. His wisdom and power are on display as we look above. Each day is a testimony of God’s existence and authorship of the world.
On December 21st, for the first time in hundreds of years, the conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn will be the closest to Earth since 1623, and closest observable since 1226 (EarthSky). According to nbcnews.com/science/space/christmas-star, “The double planet view is also known by some astronomers as the “Christmas Star” because of a belief that the biblical tale of the Star of Bethlehem could have been a planetary conjunction”.
Although the heavens, and day and night, are unable to speak, they bear a silent witness to God’s glory. They represent the power and magnificence of an almighty God. Each of us, when we look to the sky, sees God’s majesty and the expanse of His creation. Consider all the languages in the world. We are unable to understand every dialect in all nations. However, the sun, moon and stars speak a universal language of God’s power, which is understood by all.
“No nation, or people, saith that wise and learned heathen, Tully, is so barbarous and sottish, as, when they look up to the heavens, not to perceive that there is a, God, or to imagine that those things are the effect of blind chance, which are made with such wonderful art and wisdom, that it requires extraordinary art to understand their excellent orders and course.” Matthew Poole’s Commentary (Tully was a Roman statesman and orator remembered for his mastery of Latin prose (106-43 BC), WordWeb)
All are without excuse. The picture of God’s celestial heavens directs our eyes towards His power and creation. Without sound or words, they speak to man’s heart of their Creator. David, the Psalmist, was a shepherd and spent much of his time outside. He saw God in the nature around him and in the sky above him.
Picture a beautiful sunset, or the rising of the moon on the darkest of nights. Do you see the magnificence of God in His creation? When you see His works, do you ‘hear’ His creation’s praise, even without words? Silence speaks loudly.
“The sunset was one of the most glorious I ever beheld, and the whole earth seemed so still that the voice of neither God nor man was heard. There was not a ripple upon the waters, not the leaf of a tree, nor even of a blade of grass moving, and the rocks upon the opposite shore reflected the sun's "after glow," and were again themselves reflected from or in the river during the brief twilight, in a way I do not remember ever to have beheld before. No! I will not say the voice of God was not heard; it spoke in the very stillness as loud as in roaring thunder, in the placid scene as in rocks and cliffs impassable, and louder still in the heavens and in the firmament, and in the magnificent prospect around me. His wondrous works declared him to be near, and I felt as if the very ground upon which I was treading was holy.” The Treasury of David, quote by John Gadsby
God directed a star in His heavens to declare the glory of Jesus’ birth. The magi knew the unusual star signified the birth of the King. Matthew 2:2, “Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we saw His star in the east, and have come to worship Him”.
Romans 1:20-21 says, “For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are without excuse. For even though they knew God, they did not honor Him as God, or give thanks; but they became futile in their speculations, and their foolish heart was darkened”.
Creator, creation, Christmas star, Christ’s birth – truth from a Biblical account or tale from man’s perspective? Choose Truth. Celebrate the gift of Jesus, given by the Creator of all things in heaven and earth, to all people’s everywhere. Eternal salvation is offered by no other means than Jesus Christ. Acts 4:12 says, “And there is salvation in no one else; for there is no other name under heaven that has been given among men, by which we must be saved”.
Look to the heavens. Do you see the effect of blind chance or the work of an extraordinary Creator? Listen to His call in your heart. Accept His grace in your life which is freely offered to you when you place your complete trust in Him. In believing you have nothing to lose but everything to gain. If you think God is a crutch for those who are weak or less intelligent, I can imagine no better crutch to lean on than the Creator of the universe. His signature speaks loudly.
Ecclesiastes 3:1, “There is an appointed time for everything. And there is a time for every event under heaven”.
Are we there yet? Is it time yet? We have all heard this, thought this, or said these words. It is a mark of impatience. We can easily become restless and even irritated when things do not happen according to our expectations.
The answer to the above questions is ‘almost’ or ‘hang on just a bit longer’. ‘We will be there soon’. ‘Be patient’. Easier said than done!
God is at work even though we may not see the results. Everything is going exactly according to His plan. Read Solomon’s words in Ecclesiastes 3:1, “There is an appointed time for everything. And there is a time for every event under heaven”.
God has appointed seasons of events just as He has appointed changes in weather. He has purposed all things to happen at a specific time. Yesterday, today, and tomorrow are in God’s control. If you are a child of God, having accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, no worries, He has you under His hand of care. All things pleasant and difficult will be used for your good and His glory.
The opposite of impatience is patience. This is not only tolerating delayed change but accepting it with a cheerful heart attitude. A word we seldom use is longanimous. It means showing patience and self-control under adversity, being slow to retaliate or express resentment.
Psalm 27:14 says, “Wait for the LORD; Be strong, and let your heart take courage; Yes, wait for the LORD”. And Romans 8:25 says, “But if we hope for what we do not see, with perseverance we wait eagerly for it”.
Take a moment, look around you, listen to conversations. How are we doing during this pandemic? As a whole, not so good. But what about you personally, how are you responding to this lengthy time of inconvenience, unknowns, imposed constraints? I pray you are persevering in hope and patience with your eyes fastened on God. How can you encourage those who are in despair? Share God’s promises, speak the Truth.
We are right where we should be at this given moment. Patience and compassion are responses you can choose. Patience because God has the answers and remains in control. Compassion for those who are struggling. Consider, because of God’s grace you are able to have peace and joy no matter the outcome. Those whose hearts are set on the world are noticeably scared, upset, and have lost direction. Be thankful for the opportunities placed before you to share the ultimate gift of love. Be a light in the darkness.
Paul’s words to the Philippians reminds us how we are to act, “Do all things without grumbling or disputing; that you may prove yourselves to be blameless and innocent, children of God above reproach in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you appear as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life”. (Php 2: 14-16a)
The specific time we are living in has been appointed by God for His purpose. Let us be strong, take courage, and have patience, acting in a manner that honors God. I pray your heart is exceedingly joy filled as you look forward to your future. I can think of no better season than the one we are in right now as we prepare to celebrate God’s love through the gift of His Son. There is hope.
This time in history is an incredible opportunity for Christians to stay the course, neither becoming discouraged nor disheartened.
Tomorrow, November 26th, 2020, is Thanksgiving. It is traditionally celebrated on the fourth Thursday in November, and commemorates a feast first held in 1621 by the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag Indians. Historical accounts tell us the pilgrims had left England to seek a new home promising prosperity, land ownership and freedom to practice their faith. After a treacherous journey and many hardships, there was a celebration of the first corn harvest in their new land. In 1863, in the midst of the Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed a national Thanksgiving Day to be held each November “to ask God to commend to His tender care to all those who had become widows, orphans, mourners or sufferers”, and to “heal the wounds of the nation”. “In many American households, the Thanksgiving celebration has lost much of its original religious significance”. Originally, it followed days of fasting during difficult times and “days of feasting and celebration to thank God in times of plenty”. (Historical information and quotes taken from history.com/topics/thanksgiving).
What is your worship, what is your praise, for what are you grateful? Thanksgiving is more than tradition and gathering. It is so much more than turkey and stuffing. It is an act of worship to God through praise, prayer, and petition, acknowledging who He is, what He has done and what He will do.
Even in this time of world-wide pandemic and the confusion of how best to slow the spread of Covid 19, we are to be thankful. And we have much to be thankful for. This time in history is an incredible opportunity for Christians to stay the course, neither becoming discouraged nor disheartened.
We are to hold fast – Hebrews 3:6 but Christ [was faithful] as a Son over His house whose house we are, if we hold fast our confidence and the boast of our hope firm until the end.
We are to remain focused on our hope – Titus 2:13 looking for the blessed hope and the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Christ Jesus.
We are to persevere in the faith of the Gospel – Colossians1:23 if indeed you continue in the faith firmly established and steadfast, and not moved away from the hope of the gospel that you have heard, which was proclaimed in all creation under heaven, and of which I, Paul, was made a minister.
We are to rejoice always, pray continuously, and give thanks in everything – 1Thessalonians 5:16-18, Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:6 says, Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.
Psalm 92:1-2 reads, It is good to give thanks to the LORD, and to sing praises to Thy name, O Most High. To declare Thy lovingkindness in the morning, and Thy faithfulness by night. God’s lovingkindness is His favor and mercy, His blessing poured out for those undeserving. His faithfulness is certain and secure.
Consider your example as a follower of Christ. The church is not a building, it is a people called by God to witness His Truth to the world. Are you hindering your witness with complaints of wearing a mask, grumbling about being asked to limit the size and place of your gathering, or complaining about the length of time this virus has affected your ‘normal’ and ‘expected’ lifestyle? No one likes what is happening but your response to what God has allowed will either create an open door to sharing Truth or a closed door of hypocrisy as others see disobedience displayed in your life. Is your focus on keeping your ‘rights’ or on giving up self in order to share Christ’s righteousness?
These are difficult and personal questions. I find myself becoming tired of the rules and the suggestions for safety. There are some things that simply do not make sense in my limited understanding. Many of us have not seen family for over eight months and it is easy to give up. The desire to throw all caution to the wind gets strong. I am guilty. But then, thankfully, I am brought back to reality and the reason for my life. It is not about what I want, what I understand or what I agree with, it is about Christ and His great sacrifice.
Sin is becoming magnified as filters of right and wrong are withdrawn from society. Will you choose to be light? Without God we are doomed. Yet, God has not and will not give up on those he loves. His patience is remarkable towards mankind. God, in His mercy and goodness, has extended life eternal to all who accept His Son, Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. Be thankful. I pray that your heart overflows with gratitude as you share Truth with those you love. There is no greater gift to give than the hope of the Gospel. There is no greater recipient or reason for our thanksgiving than GOD.
The gift of heaven is free to all who receive it. It is not something that is earned by hard work; it is not something that any of us deserve because we try to be good. Even in our best efforts we miss the mark, we make mistakes. We simply are unable to lead perfect lives. Because of this, there is a chasm between man and God. God is 100% perfect and holy so He is unable to be in the presence of sinful man. Our sin must be punished – the consequence is eternal death. God, because He loves you, sent His perfect Son to pay the penalty you owe for sin. In Christ, your debt is paid in full. There is no one Christ’s death has not covered. Your lifestyle, your past sin, your ‘skeleton’s in the closet’, your messed-up life, and anything else you can think of, are not greater than God’s power and the gift of His love. Jesus Christ died on the cross for you; He rose from the dead securing a place in eternal heaven for you. By faith, accept what He offers – freedom from sin’s control. Your heart will be changed forever, peace will ensue your soul, and your life will be an offering of thanksgiving everyday to the God who has saved you.
Perhaps this Thanksgiving we should follow the example given to us in 1863 and ask God to commend to His tender care to all those who have become widows, orphans, mourners, or sufferers, and to heal the wounds of the nation.
Focus Heavenward.
the limit of our observation is opposite to the realm of God’s infinite time and grand creation.
Psalm 19 is a song of praise to God. It gives us insight to David’s life and faith. The first six verses proclaim the majesty of God seen in His work of creation. Then follows the description of God’s perfect law and its purpose in verses 7-11. In verses 12-14, David requests forgiveness and protection from sin, and calls on God’s grace with a request that his life honors God. This short section of scripture gives us a picture of David’s devotion to God and his desire to live faithfully being conformed to God’s holiness, leaning upon God’s power.
Psalm 19:1 The heavens are telling of the glory of God; and their expanse is declaring the work of His hands.
What is referred to when we read about ‘the heavens’?
According to Strong’s Hebrew Dictionary, the heavens <shamayim> refer to the sky, perhaps alluding to the visible arch in which the clouds move. It also refers to the entire celestial universe which we cannot conceive. When we speak of something being ethereal it is intangible and immeasurable.
Consider your reaction on a clear night as you look upward to the starry sky, are you able to see its boundaries? It goes on and on, so much farther than our human eye is able to focus. In great contrast, the limit of our observation is opposite to the realm of God’s infinite time and grand creation.
Psalm 19:1 says, “The heavens are telling of the glory of God”. The heavens declare God’s glory. The verb used is an intense announcement, a record or numbering of the stars, a celebration of God’s glory. The sheer number of heavenly bodies in the sky above, point towards our Creator God.
Genesis 1:16-17 And God made the two great lights, the greater light to govern the day, and the lesser light to govern the night; [He made] the stars also. And God placed them in the expanse of the heavens to give light on the earth,
Jeremiah 10:12 [It is] He who made the earth by His power, Who established the world by His wisdom; And by His understanding He has stretched out the heavens.
The heavens, although beautiful, have no mind or intelligence. Yet, they set forth God’s glory for all to see. God made the heavens, He holds the stars in place, His wisdom and power is on display as we look above. God’s glory is clearly seen in His creation.
Romans 1:20 For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are without excuse.
Psalm 8:3-4 When I consider Thy heavens, the work of Thy fingers, the moon and the stars, which Thou hast ordained; What is man, that Thou dost take thought of him? And the son of man, that Thou dost care for him?
God’s glory is magnified in His heavens. Consider that which we see and then realize it goes beyond what is visible to our eyes. God’s existence and power is undeniable as we look to His creation.
Psalm 33:6 By the word of the LORD the heavens were made, and by the breath of His mouth all their host.
Ps 148:3 Praise Him, sun and moon; Praise Him, all stars of light! Praise Him, highest heavens, and the waters that are above the heavens! Ps 148:5 Let them praise the name of the LORD, For He commanded and they were created.
Read Psalm 19:1 again, “The heavens are telling of the glory of God, and their expanse is declaring the work of His hands”.
What is your response? The heavens are God’s creation and speak boldly of His glory. You are God’s living creation, formed by His artistry and hands, made for His glory and purpose. Do you shine for Him? Are others drawn towards His truths through your life?
Psalm 19:2 Day to day pours forth speech, and night to night reveals knowledge.
We become excited about certain events that have happened and events we are looking forward to in the future. However, once they pass, their significance dwindles and eventually is lost to the next circumstance approaching. In contrast to our human experiences that ebb and flow, each day and night continues in their succession to glorify God. As day turns into day and evening into evening, the sun rises and the moon sets, all according to God’s plan set in motion at the beginning of time. God’s hand in ordering the days and nights speak of His power and give us knowledge of His greatness and goodness.
Did the sun rise today? Praise God. Did the moon give light to our evening? Praise God. How often do we take the time to consider that God is directing the day to happen and the night to take place? God holds all things in place and determines all time – every moment in each day and night. Do we see God’s glory in the sunrise of the morning, the sunshine of the day, the moon light at night? Each day is a testimony of God’s existence and authorship of the world.
Psalm 74:16 Thine is the day, Thine also is the night; Thou hast prepared the light and the sun.
Psalm 136:7-9 To Him who made [the] great lights, For His lovingkindness is everlasting: The sun to rule by day, For His lovingkindness is everlasting, the moon and stars to rule by night, For His lovingkindness is everlasting.
Genesis 8:22 "While the earth remains, Seedtime and harvest, and cold and heat, and summer and winter, and day and night shall not cease."
“The original has in it the thought of pouring out or welling over, with speech; as though days and nights were but as a fountain flowing evermore with Jehovah's praise. Oh to drink often at the celestial well, and learn to utter the glory of God! The witnesses above cannot be slain or silenced; from their elevated seats they constantly preach the knowledge of God, unawed and unbiased by the judgment of men. Even the changes of alternating night and day are mutely eloquent, and light and shade equally reveal the Invisible One …” Treasury of David
Psalm 19:1-2 The heavens are telling of the glory of God; and their expanse is declaring the work of His hands. Day to day pours forth speech, and night to night reveals knowledge.
Are we led to praise God for all things day and night, continuously? The heavens speak of God’s glory. Do our lives shine for His honor?
For thousands of years, even before time began, God has been on the throne. Nothing has changed in the hierarchy of Who is in control, Who is in charge, Who calls all the shots, Who we can trust, and Who gets the glory.
Election Results are In!
Everything has passed that God has allowed; nothing has passed that was not part of His plan.
God is on His throne – always has been, always will be. Psalm 90:2, “Before the mountains were born, Or Thou didst give birth to the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, Thou art God”.
God is Most High. Psalm 83:18, “That they may know that Thou alone, whose name is the LORD, Art the Most High over all the earth”. There is no need to despair, the future is certain. The world definitely looks unsettled to many of us, it may seem like things are unraveling and unrest can be felt. Yet, God has a plan which is perfect.
God knows all things. Psalm 139:1-3, “O LORD, Thou hast searched me and known [me.] Thou dost know when I sit down and when I rise up; Thou dost understand my thought from afar. Thou dost scrutinize my path and my lying down, and art intimately acquainted with all my ways”. Proverbs 5:21, “For the ways of a man are before the eyes of the LORD, and He watches all his paths”. There are no surprises, and no contested results.
God sees all things. Psalm 139:7-10, “Where can I go from Thy Spirit? Or where can I flee from Thy presence? If I ascend to heaven, Thou art there; If I make my bed in Sheol, behold, Thou art there. If I take the wings of the dawn, If I dwell in the remotest part of the sea, Even there Thy hand will lead me, And Thy right hand will lay hold of me”. There are no tapes for God to review. He knows and He sees with perfect judgment.
God is faithful. Hebrews 10:23 “Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful”. No matter how bad it may seem, God will not bail! The opposite of faithfulness is being a traitor, not holding to your promises. We witness this all around us. However, God is always true to His word. Deuteronomy 31:6, "Be strong and courageous, do not be afraid or tremble at them, for the LORD your God is the one who goes with you. He will not fail you or forsake you."
God is merciful and longsuffering. Exodus 34:6-7, “Then the LORD passed by in front of him and proclaimed, "The LORD, the LORD God, compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in lovingkindness and truth; who keeps lovingkindness for thousands, who forgives iniquity, transgression and sin; yet He will by no means leave [the guilty] unpunished, visiting the iniquity of fathers on the children and on the grandchildren to the third and fourth generations”." God is holding His hand out through His Son to forgive you of all offense. Will you grasp it, receive His grace and proclaim His majesty?
God is King of all, Ruler of all. Who do you worship? The world and all it contains, or the Creator of everything? 1Timothy 1:17, “Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, [be] honor and glory forever and ever. Amen”. Isaiah 44:6 "Thus says the LORD, the King of Israel And his Redeemer, the LORD of hosts: 'I am the first and I am the last, And there is no God besides Me.
For thousands of years, even before time began, God has been on the throne. Nothing has changed in the hierarchy of Who is in control, Who is in charge, Who calls all the shots, Who we can trust, and Who gets the glory.
It is amazing that a perfect and holy God continues to have compassion on the world. The truth is, He desires all to be saved and has a greater love for His creation than we can imagine. This love was made manifest in His Son, Jesus Christ. Trusting in Him alone will result in peace no matter the circumstances. Will you continue in confusion or live for Christ?
Isaiah 25:1 O LORD, Thou art my God; I will exalt Thee, I will give thanks to Thy name; for Thou hast worked wonders, plans [formed] long ago, with perfect faithfulness.
Focus Heavenward.
What If …
Anyone who has listened to any news report within the last several days as heard these words. Hours upon hours have been spent speculating the ‘what ifs’. Consider the time, energy and resources that have gone into the ‘science’ of trying to figure out what might happen in this election and how people will respond. This is the epitome of living in uncertainty, without structure and a path to follow. As often as the direction seems to change, the predictions change. This is the world, being thrown to and fro with every passing circumstance. There is another way –
Deuteronomy 32:4 "The Rock! His work is perfect, for all His ways are just; A God of faithfulness and without injustice, righteous and upright is He.
1Samuel 2:2 "There is no one holy like the LORD, indeed, there is no one besides Thee, nor is there any rock like our God.
2Samuel 22:2-3 And he said, "The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer; my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge; my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold and my refuge; my savior, Thou dost save me from violence.
2Samuel 22:47 "The LORD lives, and blessed be my rock; and exalted be God, the rock of my salvation,
Psalm 62:2 He only is my rock and my salvation, my stronghold; I shall not be greatly shaken.
Isaiah 51:1 "Listen to me, you who pursue righteousness, who seek the LORD: look to the rock from which you were hewn, and to the quarry from which you were dug.
Above are just a few of many scriptures referring to God as our Rock. What do we learn from the above scriptures?
God’s work is perfect, just, and faithful.
There is only one who is God, there is no other.
God is our strength, and our protection.
God is alive; in Him is our salvation.
God is our security, our constant in a world of change.
We are to keep our focus on God, remembering His mercies.
Recall Jesus’ words in Matthew 7 –
"Therefore everyone who hears these words of Mine, and acts upon them, may be compared to a wise man, who built his house upon the rock. "And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and burst against that house; and [yet] it did not fall, for it had been founded upon the rock. "And everyone who hears these words of Mine, and does not act upon them, will be like a foolish man, who built his house upon the sand. "And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and burst against that house; and it fell, and great was its fall." (v.24-27)
You have two choices – either you build your life upon the Rock or you do not. One will provide security and protection no matter the circumstances surrounding you, the other will result in uncertainty and ruin. As I look around, I am amazed at God’s faithfulness to a faithless people. His love for each individual He created is beyond what we are able to comprehend. Man is sinful, there is no doubt. God is holy, there is no doubt. The suffering, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ provides the bridge between God and man. We need a Savior, and His name is Jesus. You can choose to live in the ‘what ifs’ or you can choose to live in Christ, with your roots and security planted on God, the Rock of our salvation. Protection and purpose for today, and certain hope for eternity is available for all those who place their trust upon the Rock.
Focus Heavenward, Sharyn.
We live in a world that seems out of control. No matter how powerful words or knowledge or position may be, man is unable to direct his cause. We see this evidence all over the world. The year 2020 has proven to be devastating in areas of health, natural resources, the economy, violence, and fear. Our nation is now entering into the additional uncertainty of a presidential election which is forecast to lead to civil unrest no matter the result. People are confused and angry. So how do we respond? What can we do? We use the inerrant word given to us from God rather than relying upon the wisdom of men.
First, focus on the truth that we know – man is out of control; however, the world is under Divine control. Nothing takes place without the knowledge and allowance of God.
Proverbs 21:1 The king's heart is [like] channels of water in the hand of the LORD; He turns it wherever He wishes.
Proverbs 5:21 For the ways of a man are before the eyes of the LORD, and He watches all his paths.
Jeremiah 16:17 "For My eyes are on all their ways; they are not hidden from My face, nor is their iniquity concealed from My eyes.
Jeremiah 32:17-19 'Ah Lord GOD! Behold, Thou hast made the heavens and the earth by Thy great power and by Thine outstretched arm! Nothing is too difficult for Thee, who showest lovingkindness to thousands, but repayest the iniquity of fathers into the bosom of their children after them, O great and mighty God. The LORD of hosts is His name; great in counsel and mighty in deed, whose eyes are open to all the ways of the sons of men, giving to everyone according to his ways and according to the fruit of his deeds;
Second, there is one certain solution for each of us –
Personally respond to God’s grace given, declaring Christ as your eternal King.
Choose to live in obedience to His commands, and
Seek the peace that comes from knowing God is in complete control.
Ephesians 1:7 In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace,
Psalm 34:14 Depart from evil, and do good; Seek peace, and pursue it.
Romans 14:19 So then let us pursue the things which make for peace and the building up of one another.
Third, recognize that nothing will happen or has happened without His perfect knowledge and plan. Our understanding of His plan is not required. However, we are to accept His sovereignty over the earth. This response brings peace in the midst of an unsettled heart and nation.
Deuteronomy 4:39 "Know therefore today, and take it to your heart, that the LORD, He is God in heaven above and on the earth below; there is no other.
Psalm 93:1 The LORD reigns, He is clothed with majesty; The LORD has clothed and girded Himself with strength; Indeed, the world is firmly established, it will not be moved.
Finally, there is much we can do after we respond in faith through God’s grace to His perfect plan.
Be a light in darkness. Have empathy and compassion for the lost.
Share the hope you have in Christ to those who will listen.
Pray for God’s intervention and mercy in a world that does not seek Him or recognize Him as King.
Live in peace with all men as far as you are able. Put self last and Christ first in all your interactions.
2Corinthians 1:12 For our proud confidence is this, the testimony of our conscience, that in holiness and godly sincerity, not in fleshly wisdom but in the grace of God, we have conducted ourselves in the world, and especially toward you.
Ephesians 4:29 Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such [a word] as is good for edification according to the need [of the moment,] that it may give grace to those who hear.
Colossians 4:6 Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned, [as it were,] with salt, so that you may know how you should respond to each person.
God knows all, God understands perfectly, and God has a plan which will lead to His glory in His time. God loves you and sent His Son to pay the price for your sin. Because of this, confusion and anger will not be your response. Instead, peace will reside in your heart no matter what may come.
1Timothy 1:17 Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, [be] honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.
It is then no longer I who is scrambling to solve a problem, it is God who is sovereign over all things, knows all things, and can do all things.
2
How do you respond when your own personal concerns about friends, family and life circumstances begin to creep into your joy? My response when I notice my heart is beginning to feel heavy and overwhelmed, is to dig into a well-known section of scripture once again. It is incredible how a child of God can repeatedly visit the same verse through the years and be encouraged by new and different insight. It is not that the Word has changed, but our experiences of God’s faithfulness, and hopefully our own spiritual growth, causes us to see more. God has lovingly placed in our hands His inerrant Truths. His warnings and promises in the Bible are His historical guidebook on how He works, who He is, what He has done and what He will do. The Bible is our manual on how we are to live – who we are in Christ and without Christ, what we have because of Christ and what we forfeit when we reject Him. For the umpteenth time I have needed to reset my sights on what is genuinely important and valued, giving less regard to worldly concerns. I am so thankful to my Lord and Savior for His tender care for my soul. Grab a cup of coffee and let us unwrap the priceless package of God’s word together.
Focus Heavenward, Sharyn.
Philippians 4:6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.
Psalm 55:22 Cast your burden upon the LORD, and He will sustain you; He will never allow the righteous to be shaken.
Notice the action in Psalm 55 – cast your burden, meaning to throw out, down or away. Picture casting a fishing line into the water. However, in this case you would cut the line having no desire to retrieve it. We are to get rid of our burdens, placing them in the hands of God who is more than willing and capable to handle them. It is then no longer I who is scrambling to solve a problem, it is God who is sovereign over all things, knows all things, and can do all things. This truth creates a sigh of relief and peace in God’s children.
Proverbs 16:3 Commit your works to the LORD, and your plans will be established.
Again, we see action in Proverbs 16 – commit. We are to remove, literally roll, our burdens to the Lord. When all of our concerns are placed in Christ’s hands, we can take a deep sigh of relief. I will share part of my testimony here for sake of illustration. Years ago, I was unfamiliar with any specific scriptures in the Bible. However, when God determines it is time to open the eyes of one of His own, He orchestrates the circumstances. I was alone late one evening, my children were upstairs sleeping, and I was literally at the end of my rope. I had done everything I could possibly think of to change the direction of where we were headed. Nothing had worked. My life was in shambles, I had three children depending on me, I was scared, alone, felt hopeless, worthless, and ashamed by failure. As hot tears and silent sobs filled the dark night, I was led to take the blanket off the back of the sofa and lay it out on the floor. I then threw in my burdens, all of them, crying and telling God that I could not go on – it was all His. I was too weak to carry the load. I am sure if anyone had seen me talking to what looked like no one and pantomiming the placement of things in the middle of a blanket on the floor, I would have been carried off for evaluation. I rolled up the blanket and held it with both hands as high as possible and asked God to take all that was within and help me. In that moment of giving up of self and rolling my burdens to God, relief poured over me. A quietness I had never known settled in my soul and the peace of God’s care assured me that somehow, we would be okay.
Matthew 6:25 "For this reason I say to you, do not be anxious for your life, [as to] what you shall eat, or what you shall drink; nor for your body, [as to] what you shall put on. Is not life more than food, and the body than clothing?
Matthew 6:34 "Therefore do not be anxious for tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself. [Each] day has enough trouble of its own.
Luke 12:22 And He said to His disciples, "For this reason I say to you, do not be anxious for [your] life, [as to] what you shall eat; nor for your body, [as to] what you shall put on.
1Peter 5:7 casting all your anxiety upon Him, because He cares for you.
Do not be anxious for your life, do not be anxious for tomorrow, do not be anxious for what you shall eat, do not be anxious for what you shall wear – Be anxious for nothing!
Be Anxious <merimnao> to be anxious about, take thought; through the idea of distraction.
When we are worried or bothered about something, it is what we think about most. In fact, just listen to others. Most often, they talk about what is bothering them. It does not take long to find out what is troubling to any of us as we are usually ready to share with those who will listen. Consider how you might mull over a situation again and again in your mind. When this happens, we find it difficult to concentrate on other things, even those things that are most important. We can become distracted; our attention can be drawn away from God rather than towards Him when our focus is diverted.
Is your soul distracted or troubled?
When Jesus sent the twelve disciples, He told them they would have difficulty, yet they were not to be anxious about all the details. Matthew 10:19 "But when they deliver you up, do not become anxious about how or what you will speak; for it shall be given you in that hour what you are to speak.
When Martha was complaining about the things that needed to get done, Jesus addressed her, Luke 10:41-42 But the Lord answered and said to her, "Martha, Martha, you are worried and bothered about so many things; but [only] a few things are necessary, really [only] one, for Mary has chosen the good part, which shall not be taken away from her."
Read an account of what the interaction between Martha and Jesus may have sounded like, written by Philip Doddridge in his New Testament notes, “But let me tell thee, my dear friend, that there is one thing absolutely necessary, and of infinitely greater importance than any of these domestic and secular cares; even the care to have the soul instructed in the saving knowledge of the way that leads to eternal life, and to secure a title to it: and Mary is wisely attending to that; therefore, instead of reproving her, I must rather declare that she has chosen what may eminently be called the good part, which as it shall not be finally taken away from her, I would not now hinder her from pursuing; but rather invite thee to join with her in her attention to it”.
For nothing <medeis> not even one, anything, none at all.
In nothing be anxious, in other words, stop being anxious. Not that we do not care spiritually for one another. We need to exercise what is right, being diligent in our responsibilities. This is not license for a carefree, slothful life.
Romans 12:11 not lagging behind in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord;
2Thessalonians 3:10 For even when we were with you, we used to give you this order: if anyone will not work, neither let him eat.
2Timothy 2:15 Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, handling accurately the word of truth.
We are to work hard, making the most of our time, using our resources for the encouragement and service of one another. We are not to be distracted and anxious for worldly cares. Picture a squirrel running to and fro, easily distracted by every noise, breeze, smell, and sound. This is the opposite of what our focus should look like. We often try to figure out that which is not ours to care for. For some reason, we quickly take the burden of fixing those things which are God’s to fix and direct. We constantly need to remember that we are not the ones in control. Then our focus can become what it should be – a life honoring to God, taking care in all things to give glory to His name. Sometimes quick action is required, certainly service to one another is necessary, but frequently prayer is the answer as we wait upon God and trust in His work.
Psalm 127:1-2 Unless the LORD builds the house, They labor in vain who build it; Unless the LORD guards the city, The watchman keeps awake in vain. It is vain for you to rise up early, to retire late, to eat the bread of painful labors; for He gives to His beloved [even in his] sleep.
But – instead of being anxious and distracted
In everything <pas> including all the forms of declension (downward slope, worsening, decline); all, any, every, all manner, whatsoever, whosoever.
Even when circumstances seem dire, like they will never be resolved, or it seems that things are getting worse and we begin to feel fear rise up in us. Even when we are certain we cannot go on – God can.
All the big things, all the little things, great and small – God cares! In necessity, in prosperity, in adversity, in everything, every time, every condition and every occasion. (cf. Matthew Poole’s Commentary)
Do you trust all things to God?
If someone were to ask, ‘Do you trust God’, many of us would quickly reply with an affirmation that indeed we do. But consider what is behind your most troublesome and heart-wrenching cares. We are to trust God with the impossible. I must admit, often it boils down to a lack of complete trust, I can lose hope and the word ‘quit’ enters my mind. I can readily forget where my sight needs to be centered. Oh Lord, give me a heart to immediately remember Your faithfulness in the past and build my trust in Your faithfulness for the future.
Matthew 17:20 And He *said to them, "Because of the littleness of your faith; for truly I say to you, if you have faith as a mustard seed, you shall say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it shall move; and nothing shall be impossible to you.
Matthew 19:26 And looking upon [them] Jesus said to them, "With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible."
Mark 10:27; Luke 1:37; Luke 18:27Psalm 62:8 Trust in Him at all times, O people; pour out your heart before Him; God is a refuge for us. Selah.
Proverbs 3:5 Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.
Hebrews 11:6 And without faith it is impossible to please [Him], for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and [that] He is a rewarder of those who seek Him.
By prayer <proseuche> prayer, worship, pray earnestly,
The answer to solicitous care or anxiousness, is fervent prayer. To pray earnestly means to take prayer seriously. This is more than the quick obligated words you may hear at times. It is understanding the value of prayer and the One to whom you are praying. Coming before the throne of God is not to be taken lightly. When I think of who I am, who God is and what He has done for me in spite of my sin, my heart is clothed in humility and gratitude. Then I am prepared to worship and bring my requests before our Almighty God.
When the Amalekites raided Palestine and David was distressed, he found solace in God, 1Samuel 30:6 Moreover David was greatly distressed because the people spoke of stoning him, for all the people were embittered, each one because of his sons and his daughters. But David strengthened himself in the LORD his God.
Luke 18:1 Now He was telling them a parable to show that at all times they ought to pray and not to lose heart,
I have noticed a pattern in my life. Years ago, I spent time studying prayer as I was convicted of the need to develop a deeper, more complete time of praising God verbally, confessing my sins, thanking Him for countless blessings, and of bringing my own requests and the concerns of others before Him. I was intrigued by the stillness of the very early morning and the void of distraction and was challenged to ask God to help me seek Him through prayer when I awoke at these early times. Our God is faithful to answer the requests that cause us to rely on Him more deeply. I now often find myself wide awake in the wee hours of the morning and have come to treasure these sweet quiet times of prayer. I do not even question why I am awake any more, I just spend time in prayer. I am personally thankful for God’s faithfulness in developing a deeper time of prayer in my life.
Fervent prayer, which always pulls my focus back where it belongs, is the key to overcoming frequent worry. Sincere prayer causes us to remember who God is. When we focus on God, we cannot help but be silenced in our worry. Think of some of His attributes: He is light in darkness, He is without sin, He is everlasting, His strength is beyond comparison, He knows all things, He defines wisdom, He is holy and perfectly just. He loves us, He is good, gracious, faithful, merciful, patient, and compassionate.
I believe it is impossible to encompass my thoughts with the worship of God and be worried at the same time!
And supplication <deesis> a petition, prayer, request, supplication (asking God’s help, a humble request for help, plea)
Think of the scenario of a child needing their parent for something. You can hear the desperate sound of their voice as they plea for help. At that moment, only Mom or Dad have the solution to their call. We are to call to God, our heavenly Father, with the understanding that He alone has answers. Our plea to Him is one of dependence and trust in His faithfulness and power to overcome our trouble or see us through it.
When the king of Assyria taunted the people of Jerusalem, Hezekiah and Isaiah prayed, 2Chronicles 32:20 But King Hezekiah and Isaiah the prophet, the son of Amoz, prayed about this and cried out to heaven.
Matthew 7:7-8 "Ask, and it shall be given to you; seek, and you shall find; knock, and it shall be opened to you. "For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it shall be opened.
It is no surprise that we need God! His intervention in our lives is the only reason we have hope for our future and success in the present. There is a popular saying, ‘Know God – know peace’. How true this is. Right now, during this world-wide pandemic, in which 2020 will be noted for in history, circumstances seem downright confusing. However, there is no confusion on God’s part. He has the answers, He is guiding His people, and His glory will prevail. We are reminded to be on our knees as we seek His help in this desperate time. I pray you see this as a blessing! God is at work in the world.
Things may not turn out the way we think they should, but they will turn out the way God has intended. We may not get what we want but we will get what God has planned. We may not receive what we think we need but we will be blessed with what God knows we need in order to grow in His likeness and glorify Him.
With thanksgiving <eucharistia> gratitude; grateful language to God as an act of worship.
Bottom line – we do not deserve one ounce of any type of blessing God has bestowed on us. What we do deserve is death – instead, we have life eternal. What we do deserve is confusion – instead, we have the promise of His direction. We have peace instead of chaos, hope instead of fear, comfort in the midst of sorrow, joy in all circumstances, and forgiveness rather than condemnation.
Thanksgiving to God for His answers means you are resigned to your need of His care. It is trusting that God’s will is best; it is relinquishing your plan for His. He understands and knows all things. He is in complete control of all things and has allowed all things for your good and for His glory. We are to pray with grateful acknowledgement of mercies given, benefits bestowed, and God’s saving grace in all circumstances. We are to be thankful for the growth that results from affliction, for God’s strength to be sufficient when we are tempted, for His faithfulness when we fail and for our future and certain hope in Him.
Colossians 4:2 Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with [an attitude of] thanksgiving;
Ephesians 5:20 always giving thanks for all things in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God, even the Father;
Let <gnorizo> to make known, give to understand
This is a small word with significant meaning. First, God wants to hear from us! He anticipates our dependence on Him and our desire to love Him. He wants us to voice our struggles and concerns to Him. He sent His only Son to suffer and die because of His great love for us. He wants us to have a relationship with Him. Second, we are to make known our concerns but then we are to give them to God for His understanding. We are unable to figure everything out, but God will allow us the information we need to honor Him. I like to know the beginning from the end, the expected result, the exact direction. But this is not my story, it is God’s. He will reveal to His children what is needed. The result is His to know.
Is your relationship with God hit and miss – there when you need Him but out of sight and mind when you believe you have things covered?
Do you lay your petitions and concerns at the feet of the cross – and leave them there, trusting in God’s direction and plan?
Earnestly seeking to know God day by day, moment by moment, and trusting in His knowledge and plan for all things, produces a heart of peace.
Your requests <aitema> a thing asked, petition
Does God care about my petitions, my thoughts, my cares, and concerns?
God tells us to bring our cares to Him. He desires our earnest need for Him. When we share prayer requests with others, we might struggle with what words to use or how it may sound. We may even hesitate to share certain things. God already knows our deepest thoughts, there is no surprise about our struggles, and He understands what we really need (which does not always match with our own thinking). Conversing with God in prayer, supplication and thanksgiving is the hallmark of our dependence on Him. It is the characteristic of an authentic relationship. Compare the idea of having the whole of your relationship at a facility where ‘church’ meets once or twice a week. God is not contained in a building. He resides in a believer’s heart and soul 24/7. Read the verses below. Notice the description of continually bringing your requests before the Lord.
1Chronicles 16:11 Seek the LORD and His strength; Seek His face continually.
James 5:13 Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praises.
Be made known to God. (with generous, filial, unreserved confidence; not keeping aught back, as too great, or else too small, to bring before God, Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Commentary)
“They who by a preposterous shame or distrustful modesty, cover, stifle, or keep in their desires, as if they were either too small or too great, must be racked with care; from which they are entirely delivered, who pour them out with a free and filial confidence.” John Wesley’s Notes on the Old and New Testaments
Do you present your concerns to God?
We sometimes readily and even eagerly share our prayer requests with others. God desires us to come to Him, to kneel before Him and pour out our concerns no matter how small. When we acknowledge our need for Him, seeking His counsel, His peace and comfort, trusting in His ways, He is glorified.
Picture the time you might spend with a close friend. You readily share even the smallest details of circumstances to explain your thoughts, whether they are funny, sad, encouraging or challenging. God cares about the details. This is not that we go to Him with a light-minded attitude, but with an understanding that He absolutely loves us, cares for us, has created us, and desires us to desire Him.
Does God really care about all my concerns?
Luke 12:7 "Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear; you are of more value than many sparrows. - every hair on your head is numbered.
1Peter 5:7 casting all your anxiety upon Him, because He cares for you. – all means everything.
Go back to the beginning of Philippians 4:6 which says, - in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.
Psalm 139:1-3 O LORD, Thou hast searched me and known [me.] Thou dost know when I sit down and when I rise up; Thou dost understand my thought from afar. Thou dost scrutinize my path and my lying down, And art intimately acquainted with all my ways.
1John 5:14-15 And this is the confidence which we have before Him, that, if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us [in] whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests which we have asked from Him.
“Resigning yourselves to the disposal of God, be anxiously solicitous about nothing; but in every difficulty, by prayer for what is good, and deprecation of what is evil, with thanksgiving for mercies received, make known your desires to God, who, if He see it fit, will grant your requests. Or if not, these devout exercises will enable you to bear with patience whatever affliction God allots to you.” Macknight on the Epistles
What is the result of practicing Philippians 4:6?
Thanksgiving results in prayer which replaces anxious thoughts with resounding peace.
Philippians 4:7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, shall guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Only a child of God can understand this peace. It cannot be explained. But when it is realized, it trumps all anxious thoughts as our soul is guarded by Christ Jesus.
Proverbs 16:3 Commit your works to the LORD, and your plans will be established.
“Both our bodily and spiritual interests will be safe when we place them in the Lord's hands, and, through the peace which will result from our faith, our thoughts will become steady, calm, resolute, and joyful”, Spurgeon Devotional Commentary.
We are to choose to trust God, we are to find our delight in Him alone, and we are to commit to His perfect plan, having confidence that He is in control.
Ruth 3:16-18
Ruth 3:16 And when she came to her mother-in-law, she said, "How did it go, my daughter?" And she told her all that the man had done for her.17 And she said, "These six [measures] of barley he gave to me, for he said, 'Do not go to your mother-in-law empty-handed.'“ 18 Then she said, "Wait, my daughter, until you know how the matter turns out; for the man will not rest until he has settled it today."
We have Ruth returning from the festivities at the end of harvest. She obediently followed Naomi’s instruction to attend the activities at the threshing floor where she secretly let Boaz know of her desire to have him fulfill his role as kinsman redeemer for her late husband’s name. Boaz reacted kindly toward her and sent her home with a gift of grain and a promise that he would indeed take care of the matter. Yet, only if the one who was next of kin was unable to fulfill his obligation.
Naomi was likely anticipating the return of her daughter-in-law since she welcomed her with the question, ‘How did it go, my daughter’. This question may have been one of surprise. Remember, Ruth got up before the morning light as Boaz had told her, then he had sent her on her way before anyone had the opportunity to speak poorly of them. It was likely that Naomi had not expected Ruth to show up so early in the morning. Perhaps she wondered what had happened and maybe thought things did not go as well as she had hoped.
Considering this response, how often do we have expectations of something going a certain way? When circumstances do not develop the way we think they should we are apt to think the worst or wonder what the problem may be. Sometimes, in fact often, we cannot see things clearly. God has a perfect plan. It is good for us to trust in His timing and His execution of the events of our lives.
Ruth then gave her account of Boaz’s response. She showed her mother-in-law the grain Boaz had sent with her. Naomi’s reply in verse 18 is an example for us to follow. She tells Ruth to sit still and wait until Boaz gives her an answer, Ruth 3:18 Then she said, "Wait, my daughter, until you know how the matter turns out. Remember in Ruth 3:12-13 what Boaz said to Ruth on the threshing floor, “And now it is true I am a close relative; however, there is a relative closer than i. Remain this night, and when morning comes, if he will redeem you, good; let him redeem you. But if he does not wish to redeem you, then I will redeem you, as the Lord lives. Lie down until morning”.
Boaz was going to make certain that neither of them acted too quickly without paying attention to facts. This may mean that decisions cannot be made right away. It may take time to sort things out to be certain all information is considered.
How often might we think to ourselves that we need to do something to fix a situation or to figure out an answer NOW?
Once we have taken care of our responsibility in a circumstance, we need to be okay with knowing it is not up to us to make everything right. Instead, we are to have the attitude spelled out for us in the Psalms.
Psalm 37:3-5 Trust in the LORD, and do good; Dwell in the land and cultivate faithfulness. Delight yourself in the LORD; And He will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the LORD, Trust also in Him, and He will do it.
Trust <batach> to hie for refuge, to be confident or sure, to put confidence, to (make to) hope.
We are to hie, or move fast, to safety. A refuge is something or someone turned to for assistance or security. Our confidence is to be in the Lord, Jehovah, the eternal God. We are to turn quickly to a heart that trusts that God is working.
Do you seek to act according to His will?
Do you believe God will not fail you?
Sometimes, we can choose to change direction because we do not see results or we do not get answers fast. We like to take matters into our own hands! Listen to this commentary, “To trust in the Lord, on his promises for support … persevering in the path of duty, however … discouraging it may appear” (Thomas Haweis).
We have a responsibility to place our trust in God even if circumstances are not what we think they ought to be. In fact, we are to be busy about doing the things God would have us do while we are trusting in His direction and care – “do good; dwell in the land and cultivate faithfulness”.
Be at rest right where God has you. Your security is in God, not in circumstances.
Are you able to find delight in the Lord?
Delight <anag> to be soft or pliable. Think about this for a moment. Perhaps your answers will not be God’s answers. That is okay. Our own determination for what should be can derail us from seeing something with different possibilities. God is in charge!
Are we open to a different direction than perhaps the one we have entertained?
Do we allow ourselves to consider an alternative that we had not thought of?
Are we able to trust in God when His direction does not make sense in our mind?
Consider anyone in authority. Their position means they make decisions for all those for which they are responsible. Parent/child, Teacher/student, Employer/employee, and Government/citizens, are all examples of these relationships. While these relationships are all subject to error because of human limits, we are still to move, even without understanding, in the direction we are told.
God, who is perfect in all His ways, and understands all things, and desires to bless His children, tells us to trust in Him and be flexible to His plan.
When we seek our joy in the Lord, through His word and promises, He will bestow upon us everything that is good. If our delight is in pleasing God, our desires will be for those things that glorify His name.
Psalm 43:4 Then I will go to the altar of God, To God my exceeding joy; and upon the lyre I shall praise Thee, O God, my God.
Psalm 104:34 Let my meditation be pleasing to Him; As for me, I shall be glad in the LORD.
“Think what he is, and what you are; and at once, both wonder and yield. And what else have you to delight in? What thing will you name that shall supply the place of GOD, or be to you in the stead of him? Moreover, who should delight in him but you -- his friends, his sons, those of his own house? Think what life and vigor it will infuse into you, and that "the joy of the Lord will be your strength," Treasury of David
“The desires of God, and the desires of the righteous, agree in one; they are of one mind in their desires”. John Bunyan.
Commit <galal> to roll (literally or figuratively); roll (away, down, together), run down, seek.
“Roll thy way upon -- as one who lays upon the shoulder of one stronger than himself a burden which he is not able to bear”. William De Burgh, D.D., in "A Commentary on the Book of Psalms. Dublin:" 1860.
Think about what happens when you commit to something. You devote yourself to someone or something. You put all your efforts confidence and trust into the thing that you have determined is important. Seek God; commit your way to follow Him. This is an active choice to follow God in obedience – even if you are unsure of the direction.
Psalm 22:8 "Commit [yourself] to the LORD; let Him deliver him; Let Him rescue him, because He delights in him."
Proverbs 16:3 Commit your works to the LORD, and your plans will be established.
Psalm 55:22 Cast your burden upon the LORD, and He will sustain you; He will never allow the righteous to be shaken.
Consider how well you do following your own wisdom.
Where do you place your concerns?
Do you fully expect God to take care of your circumstances, to fulfill your desires, to accomplish what is needed to grow you into His likeness?
He will do it! God will certainly cause His will for you to be done. This is not a maybe.
Luke 12:29 "And do not seek what you shall eat, and what you shall drink, and do not keep worrying.
Philippians 4:6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, shall guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
“When thou hast any difficult business in hand, and art doubtful of the success; or when thou knowest not what course to take, for the accomplishing of thy honest designs; leave all to the Lord, and trust to him in pious and upright courses, that he will direct and assist thee, and bring things to a good issue.” Patrick/Lowth/Whitby/Lowman Commentary
“Commit thy way unto the Lord. Roll the whole burden of life upon the Lord. Leave with Jehovah not thy present fretfulness merely, but all thy cares; in fact, submit the whole tenor of thy way to him. Cast away anxiety, resign thy will, submit thy judgment, leave all with the God of all. What a medicine is this for expelling envy! What a high attainment does this fourth precept indicate! How blessed must he be who lives every day in obedience to it! Trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass. Our destiny shall be joyfully accomplished if we confidently entrust all to our Lord. We may serenely sing --
"Thy way, not mine, O Lord, However dark it be; O lead me by thine own right hand, Choose out the path for me."
"Smooth let it be or rough, It will be still the best; Winding or straight, it matters not, It leads me to thy rest."
"I dare not choose my lot, I would not if I might; But choose Thou for me, O my God, So shall I walk aright."
"Take thou my cup, and it With joy or sorrow fill; As ever best to thee may seem, Choose thou my good and ill."
The ploughman sows and harrows, and then leaves the harvest to God. What can he do else? He cannot cover the heavens with clouds, or command the rain, or bring forth the sun or create the dew. He does well to leave the whole matter with God; and so to all of us it is truest wisdom, having obediently trusted in God, to leave results in his hands, and expect a blessed issue.” Treasury of David
We are to choose to trust God, we are to find our delight in Him alone, and we are to commit to His perfect plan, having confidence that He is in control.
After Naomi tells Ruth to wait, she gives more insight into the character of Boaz, for the man will not rest until he has settled it today.
Determination. Follow-through. True to his word. Boaz can be counted on to take care of the matter as he said he would. He does not lay his responsibility aside for someone else to figure out. He is not idle, wasting time, hoping the matter will resolve itself. He does what is needed to follow through with his promise to Ruth.
Boaz’s actions remind us of his integrity and faithfulness. We see wisdom in waiting upon God’s answers and direction when we have done all that we could. We see wisdom in the necessity to be diligent to take care of the responsibility we have. Both of these things are necessary in our walk with God.
What is your response?
Jesus Christ, our Redeemer, suffered and died so that we might be declared free from the control of sin. Celebrate your freedom.
The Fourth of July, or Independence Day in the United States, celebrates the declaration of America’s freedom from the British monarchy. This day is typified by fireworks, gatherings, parades, and several types of outdoor activities.
This year, our celebration may look a bit different. Many areas will not have fireworks displays, and large gatherings have been discouraged as the fight to control Covid19 continues. However, we still have ample reason to celebrate. As I think of freedom, my first thought goes to the freedom we have in America to worship God. Each time we pick up our Bible to read, it is a gift. To be able to speak of God openly is a gift. To have books and resources available to encourage our understanding and knowledge of Jesus Christ, is a gift. These are all gifts, undeserved and freely given by the hand of God.
The most incredible freedom a Believer has is the freedom from sin’s control. A monarch usually inherits authority. In Christ, the monarchy of sin has been abolished. Although it is obvious our world is troubled by sin and selfishness, there is no reason for despair. God reigns and His glory will prevail. A heart that trusts in the power and truth of a sovereign God will be directed by His goodness and mercy, even in the midst of unrest. At no point in time are things out of control. Covid19, police brutality, racial inequality, economic downturn, political slander, and the current upheaval of many cities, are a desperate picture of our need for a Redeemer.
Isaiah 53:3-6 says, “He was despised and forsaken of men, A man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief; and like one from whom men hide their face, He was despised, and we did not esteem Him. Surely our griefs He Himself bore, and our sorrows He carried; yet we ourselves esteemed Him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. But He was pierced through for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; the chastening for our well-being [fell] upon Him, and by His scourging we are healed. All of us like sheep have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way; but the LORD has caused the iniquity of us all to fall on Him.”
Jesus Christ, our Redeemer, suffered and died so that we might be declared free from the control of sin. Celebrate your freedom. More importantly, share your freedom in Christ as you gather in smaller groups this year. Pray for those you know to break free from the control of sin and selfishness. Trust in the perfect plan God has for His children. Enjoy your blessings.
Ps 118:19-24 Open to me the gates of righteousness; I shall enter through them, I shall give thanks to the LORD. This is the gate of the LORD; the righteous will enter through it. I shall give thanks to Thee, for Thou hast answered me; and Thou hast become my salvation. The stone which the builders rejected Has become the chief corner [stone.] This is the LORD'S doing; it is marvelous in our eyes. This is the day which the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.
When someone offers to help, and encourages us towards a wise direction, it is prudent to listen to their sound advice. There are instances where others may recognize what we are unable to see.
Ruth 2:22-23; 3:1-2
After Ruth shared more of the interaction between herself and Boaz, Naomi continued to encourage Ruth to listen to Boaz’s directions. Ruth 2:22 And Naomi said to Ruth her daughter-in-law, "It is good, my daughter, that you go out with his maids, lest [others] fall upon you in another field." Picture Ruth in this new situation – an unfamiliar land with customs that are new to her and a culture she may not completely understand – Boaz and Naomi have taken care to protect and encourage Ruth. Boaz has offered wise advice and Naomi tells Ruth to follow His suggestion.
Sometimes, we are unsure of the direction to turn. God often uses those around us as encouragement.
Do we listen to the wise recommendations of others?
Do we seek counsel from God’s word to help us avoid danger?
Naomi tells Ruth it is good to follow Boaz’s instruction. The Family Bible Notes says this, “When in a course which we find by experience to be safe and useful, and in which the Lord blesses us, it is ordinarily wise to persevere and not be disposed to change”. In other words, if what you have been doing is blessed by God, do not turn to a different direction!
As we read the special care Boaz is offering Ruth, it seems he may have some personal interest in her. Perhaps Naomi is recognizing the possibility of Boaz’s fondness toward Ruth. If Ruth continues to glean in Boaz’s fields, her safety is assured and she will send a positive message that she is grateful for his attention. The following observation is made in the Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Commentary, “the observant mind of the old matron had already discerned, in all Boaz’ attentions to Ruth, the germs of a stronger affection, which she wished to increase”.
When someone offers to help, and encourages us towards a wise direction, it is prudent to listen to their sound advice. There are instances where others may recognize what we are unable to see. Ruth chose to return with Naomi to Bethlehem to care for her and to follow her God. Naomi is watching out for Ruth and is helping to guide her with instruction. In the last verse of this chapter, we read that Ruth does indeed heed the advice of her mother-in-law and accepts the favor of Boaz.
Ruth 2:23 So she stayed close by the maids of Boaz in order to glean until the end of the barley harvest and the wheat harvest. And she lived with her mother-in-law. Ruth joined the female workers in Boaz’s fields, following behind them as the grain was cut, gleaning what was left behind. Ruth worked in the fields during both barley and wheat harvests. This is a considerable length of time. Barley harvest began in early spring in March and wheat harvest was toward the end of May or beginning of June. Ruth worked in the fields approximately three to four months through both harvests.
There is every reason to assume that Ruth experienced the kindness of Boaz throughout these several months of work. It is probable that the pleasant interaction between them continued. The last sentence of Ruth 2:23 says that Ruth “lived with her mother-in-law”. This is not to go unnoticed. Ruth lived with Naomi. Lived <yashab> means to sit down, to dwell, to remain. Ruth returned to Naomi each day after her work in the fields. This piece of information says something about Ruth’s character.
Picture Ruth working long days in the fields, she gleaned what she was able in order to provide food for herself and Naomi. She then goes back to her lodging with Naomi in the evening and cares for her. They probably engage in conversation about the day’s events and Naomi continues to instruct and encourage her in the faith. What Ruth does not do is seek entertainment elsewhere or neglect her mother-in-law. Ruth was young and it may have been tempting to push aside her responsibilities at home in lieu of ‘having fun’ yet she followed God by serving well.
There does not seem to be much indication at this time of Ruth’s attraction to Boaz but she did notice his special treatment for her and as his care grew, she must have been at least intrigued by his actions. Remember where Ruth has come from and where she is now. Consider the section of scripture in Proverbs 3: “My son, do not forget my teaching, but let your heart keep my commandments; for length of days and years of life, and peace they will add to you. Do not let kindness and truth leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. So you will find favor and good repute in the sight of God and man. Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight”, Proverbs 3:1-6.
Matthew Poole’s Commentary explains the Hebrew translation for ‘lived’ or ‘dwelt’ as she ‘sat or continued at home’ meaning “when she had dispatched her occasions abroad, and did not wander or gad abroad, after the manner of idle persons and harlots”.
This is a good example of continuing throughout the day with the responsibilities God has set before us. In other words, there is no ‘me’ time such as ‘I have worked hard all day now I deserve some time to myself’. Taking time for self is somewhat encouraged in our society today. This does not mean you do not have the freedom to enjoy things, but even in recreation, our focus needs to be God-centered, always taking thought as to what actions, words, etc. would be pleasing to the Lord.
Another commentary explains verse 23 with these words, “when harvest ended, she did not gab abroad, but kept her mother company at home; for so the Hebrew, “she sat with her mother-in-law”, Patrick/Lowth/Whitby/Lowman Commentary.
Ruth’s humility, diligence, and wisdom are examples for us to follow. Her good character sought to honor those in her family. Her faithfulness to her responsibilities and to God was evident to those around her and gained the attention of Boaz. God’s blessings are evident as He directs Ruth’s path in fulfilling His perfect plan.
We begin Chapter 3 with additional instruction from Naomi to Ruth. Earlier Naomi had encouraged Ruth to walk to the fields in the hope of finding a place to gather grain for their food. Ruth did as she was told and reported the events of her day to Naomi. Naomi hears it is Boaz who has shown Ruth kindness and Naomi is looking once again to Ruth’s future.
Ruth 3:1 Then Naomi her mother-in-law said to her, "My daughter, shall I not seek security for you, that it may be well with you?
Naomi’s concern for her Ruth’s future was demonstrated in Chapter One also when Naomi suggested her daughters-in-law return to their homes rather than follow her into Bethlehem. Ruth 1:9 May the LORD grant that you may find rest, each in the house of her husband.” Then she kissed them, and they lifted up their voices and wept. As Naomi was preparing to journey to Bethlehem without Ruth and Orpah, she had shared her heartfelt desire for her daughters-in-law to find a husband and be settled.
According to what Naomi understands of Jewish law, she now sees an opportunity for Ruth in Palestine with Boaz. Her desire for Ruth is to have a home. Remember the ‘special’ attention Boaz seemed to show toward Ruth after he asked his worker who she was. Boaz was certainly aware of where he stood in the line of Elimelech’s family.
Look at the words used in Ruth 3:1.
“shall I not seek security for you” – this means to search out (by any method, specifically in worship or prayer); to strive after; desire, make inquisition, procure … a settled spot, figuratively a home or place of rest.
“that it may be well with you” – to make well, literally – sound, beautiful; figuratively – happy, successful, right: to be accepted, to make better …
Naomi truly has a desire for Ruth’s future to be blessed and she lets Ruth know what she is thinking. Perhaps Naomi feels even more responsible to procure a better life for her daughter-in-law because she realizes Ruth’s sacrifice in giving up all she knew in order to help Naomi and follow her God. Naomi is encouraged by Boaz’s treatment of Ruth and she knows he is in a place to redeem the family’s name and offer Ruth a better future. Jewish law had set in place a way to preserve a family’s name if a death occurred without having children. Deuteronomy 25:5 says, "When brothers live together and one of them dies and has no son, the wife of the deceased shall not be [married] outside [the family] to a strange man. Her husband's brother shall go in to her and take her to himself as wife and perform the duty of a husband's brother to her”.
Recall that women at that time were largely dependent on their male relatives or husbands to provide the means for shelter, food and clothing. There was a need for a woman to work in the home full time. Just imagine all the daily tasks involved in running your home smoothly. We have so many conveniences; it is difficult to imagine life without them. Machines wash our clothes and our dishes. Purchases of ready-made food and clothing can be made only a few miles away.
In Ruth 3:1, we have an account of Naomi’s care for Ruth and her desire that Ruth not be confined to the uncertain and difficult life they were now living.
Do we seek the welfare of others?
Do we have a genuine concern for their future?
Naomi continues her conversation with Ruth, with an explanation of the plan she is about to propose. She goes on to remind Ruth of Boaz’s position in the family line (Ruth 2:20). He is their kinsman, their relative. Ruth 3:2 "And now is not Boaz our kinsman, with whose maids you were? Behold, he winnows barley at the threshing floor tonight.
Ruth found herself gleaning in a field, which belonged to Boaz, a relative of her late-husband (Ruth 2:3). Boaz had shown her exceeding kindness in the fields (Ruth 2:8). Naomi recalls this information and adds that Boaz would be working on the threshing floor that evening.
“He winnoweth barley tonight It is very likely that the winnowing of grain was effected by taking up, in a broad thin vessel or sieve, a portion of the corn, and letting it down slowly in the wind; thus the grain would, by its own weight, fall in one place, while the chaff, would be carried to a distance by the wind. It is said here that this was done at night; probably what was threshed out in the day was winnowed in the evening, when the sea breeze set in, which was common in Palestine; and as this took place in the evening only, that was the time in which they would naturally winnow their corn.” Adam Clarke’s Commentary
The Annotated Bible Notes says, “It was important that the owner should look well after his produce, to secure it from depredations; and he would therefore be likely to sleep at the threshing-floor.”
Matthew Poole’s Commentary gives this description of the area where grain was winnowed, “A place covered at the top, but open elsewhere, whither Ruth might easily come. And this work of winnowing corn was usually begun or ended with a feast …”
In our next study in Ruth, we will consider the very specific instructions Naomi gives.
God desires to bless each of His children according to His plan.
Ruth continues to relay the words of Boaz to Naomi in the next verse. Ruth 2:21 Then Ruth the Moabitess said, "Furthermore, he said to me, 'You should stay close to my servants until they have finished all my harvest.'" The blessings continue to multiply! This is like listening to a story that just keeps getting better and better – and we have not neared the end!
It is interesting that verse 21 begins with the words ‘Ruth he Moabitess’. This particular description of Ruth is a reminder of her background and renders these events even more amazing. Remember, the land of Moab was known for its worship of idols. The fact that Ruth is now part of the family name of Elimelech through marriage, and living among the Jewish peoples, having adopted their customs and their God, is only a scene that could have been written by God’s own hand.
NASB uses the word ‘furthermore’, other translations say ‘yea, he said unto me’, ‘besides, he said unto me, and ‘he also said to me’ (ASV, RSV and NKJV). Imagine the conversation between Ruth and Naomi. Ruth can hardly believe what has transpired that day. She expected little, just the possibility of gathering a small amount of grain for food, yet she was granted kindness, security, refreshment, and hope. Through the course of her interaction with Boaz, Ruth remembered her position; her humility continues to shine in her actions and words.
Think of your position in Christ. You were called to Him, and although you had nothing to offer, He stretched out his arms for you to offer riches untold. Unworthy, unlikely and once His enemy, you have been embraced by God’s mercy and blessed abundantly. We have an example of Ruth, excited to tell the whole incredible story to Naomi of her unexpected blessings.
Are you excited to talk about the gift you have received in Christ and the blessings that are yours as His child?
Ruth reveals that Boaz told her to stay close to His servants until they finished the harvest. Several commentaries report that there were two harvest periods. The first being barley which was currently being harvested, and the latter being wheat which would follow. Ruth had been invited to join Boaz’s servants until all the harvest was complete.
It is noteworthy to look at what Ruth did not share with Naomi. Boaz was full of praise towards Ruth in verses 11-12. One commentary makes this observation of Ruth’s conversation with Naomi, “She tells what kindness Boaz had shewed her; but not, how he had commended her. Humility teaches not only not to praise ourselves, but not to be forward in repeating the praise which others have given us”. John Wesley’s Notes on the Old and New Testaments
Ruth 2:11-12 And Boaz answered and said to her, "All that you have done for your mother-in-law after the death of your husband has been fully reported to me, and how you left your father and your mother and the land of your birth, and came to a people that you did not previously know. "May the LORD reward your work, and your wages be full from the LORD, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to seek refuge."
Consider God’s answered prayer and direction in your own life. There are things you had probably hoped for or thought would be a good direction that God, in His mercy, kept from you. Instead, you see His answers, in His timing, and as you look back, realize His perfect blessings.
The hardships that Naomi and Ruth have experienced were allowed by God to prepare them to receive His blessings. God’s plan for His children makes no compromise, has no holes, and is not left to chance. Blessings are not acquired by our merit but by His abounding love. God chose to bless Naomi and Ruth, placing them in His perfect timing for His perfect blessings. God desires to bless each of His children according to His plan. Adversity prepares us for what lies ahead, teaches us to trust in God and proves our sincere faith.
Psalm 119:71 It is good for me that I was afflicted, that I may learn Thy statutes.
Psalm 66:10 For Thou hast tried us, O God; Thou hast refined us as silver is refined.
Psalm 34:8 O taste and see that the LORD is good; how blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him!
Jeremiah 17:7 "Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD and whose trust is the LORD.
1Peter 1:6-7 In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials, that the proof of your faith, [being] more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ;
When we fully understand God’s love towards us, we will be motivated to love others. We will be drenched in humility and look for opportunities to extend the love we have received.
Nearing the end of Chapter 2 in Ruth, conversation between Naomi and Ruth continues. Naomi reveals to Ruth that the man named Boaz, whose field she was allowed to glean, is a relative. In fact, Boaz is of their closest relatives. Ruth offers even more specific information of the interaction between herself and Boaz. Naomi then encourages Ruth with direction for the coming days ahead. The relationship between these two women is evidence of their deep affection for one another. The treasure we have in relationships, the ability to confide and seek counsel, and the encouragement we gather from one another is a blessing as we move forward in our knowledge and understanding of God.
Ruth 2:20 And Naomi said to her daughter-in-law, "May he be blessed of the LORD who has not withdrawn his kindness to the living and to the dead.” Again Naomi said to her, "The man is our relative, he is one of our closest relatives."
Naomi’s blessing to Boaz. Just as Naomi’s words in verse 19 blessed Boaz for his kindness, her words in verse 20 proclaim an abundance of blessing upon him from Jehovah God. The KJV of Ruth 2:20 reads, “Blessed be he of the Lord.” There is recognition from Naomi of God’s hand through Boaz in their care and she rightly turns the praise towards God.
What is your reaction when God allows you to clearly see His hand directing your life?
Often, God uses others as an encouragement to us when we are truly seeking to live for Him. Naomi honors God by giving Him the glory for this amazing turn of circumstances. Boaz’s kindness towards Ruth means the women will not be in fear of their supply of food and that Ruth will be safe as she works in the fields as a foreigner, without being harassed. To Naomi, who understands Jewish Law, it also means a possibility of redemption for her family name.
Naomi may have been fearful that with the death of her husband Elimelech, and their two sons, she could be forgotten in the family and left to fend on her own. We can surmise this because she had warned Ruth, even before their journey began, how difficult it might be when returning to Bethlehem. Yet, here is evidence of God’s mercy on His children.
Naomi prays for blessing upon Boaz because he had ‘not withdrawn his kindness to the living and to the dead.’ Kindness is the same word used for mercy.
What does it mean to show mercy to someone?
According to Word Web, mercy means to show great kindness toward the distressed. It is the feeling that motivates compassion.
Do we take the opportunities we have to show kindness and mercy towards one another? What might this look like?
Do we take the time to consider how we can be an encouragement?
God’s mercy toward us is much more than the kindness we might display towards others. We have been declared guilty and in need of salvation from sin’s destruction. In contrast, God is perfect, and man’s ugly display of sin is a grievance towards His holiness. Even though we are guilty, God chose to extend his love to man through the death of His Son, Jesus Christ. God’s mercy towards man declares the guilty to be guiltless. We have been saved from the wrath and punishment we truly deserve.
When we fully understand God’s love towards us, we will be motivated to love others. We will be drenched in humility and look for opportunities to extend the love we have received. Boaz was merciful toward Ruth and her reaction is one of humility. A humble mind has no thought of deserving something more or something better. Any advantage given, no matter how small it may seem, will be valued as an undeserved blessing.
How do these truths affect your attitude?
Naomi’s disclosure to Ruth. “The man is our relative, he is one of our closest relatives.” This is incredible information. Boaz is not only a distant relative but one who is able to act as kinsman redeemer for the family. This means restoring the family name and property. Imagine how difficult the past ten years or so has been for Naomi – leaving her home town during a time of famine, going to an area of idol worshippers, watching her sons get pulled into a heathen culture, the death of her husband, the death of both her sons, and returning destitute to Bethlehem. Now, in God’s perfect timing, when the famine in Bethlehem has ended, and at the beginning of harvest, with a loyal daughter-in-law whose heart has turned toward God, Naomi is given hope. God’s lovingkindness is shown towards Naomi and Ruth in a very practical way and unsuspecting set of circumstances. There is no doubt that God’s hand is directing the lives of Naomi, Ruth, and Boaz. We have the advantage of reading this account from beginning to end so it is not difficult for us to see the blessings that are accumulating through the hands of God in these three lives.
As you retrace God’s direction in your life, are you able to see His blessings?
When we are in the midst of difficult circumstances, we may neglect to look to the hope we have that God is in control of all things. We can allow ourselves to become weighed down by discouragement (see Naomi’s response in Ruth 1:20), and forget the truth that God works all things for His glory. It is all about Him! We do not live for our pleasure – we live for His purpose.
Searching in Torrey’s Topical Textbook under the subject of glorifying God, one of the headings is listed as “All the blessings of God are designed to lead to” His glory. This is true in the account we are reading now, and it is true in your own life. Isaiah 60:21 reads, “Then all your people [will be] righteous; they will possess the land forever, the brand of My planting, the work of My hands, that I may be glorified.”
Matthew 5:16 Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.
John 15:7-8 "If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it shall be done for you, "By this is My Father glorified, that you bear much fruit, and [so] prove to be My disciples.
The apostle Paul in Philippians 2:12 gives this charge to the church, “So then, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for [His] good pleasure.”
Again, the apostle Paul in his book to the Hebrews encourages them to honor God in all things. “Now the God of peace, who brought up from the dead the great Shepherd of the sheep through the blood of the eternal covenant, [even] Jesus our Lord, equip you in every good thing to do His will, working in us that which is pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom [be] the glory forever and ever. Amen.” Hebrews 13:20-21.
How are you led to apply these truths?
How is God using you to glorify Himself?
In light of the recent events in our nation, first the Covid 19 pandemic, and now the response to the unnecessary killing of a detained individual which has led to protesting and rioting in most major cities across America, we have a charge to careful, concise and controlled actions that are well-thought and purposed for God’s honor.
Here is a quote from the commentary of Thomas Scott regarding 1 Peter 1:13, “… laying aside all carnal prejudices and superfluous cares, with such occupations, desire, and pursuits, as might prevent their clearly understanding, cordially choosing, and cheerfully obeying, the word of truth; and using all means of removing impediments, of invigorating holy affections, and of animating themselves and each other, in diligently serving and patiently suffering for Christ”.
Are you practicing holiness in your thoughts, responses and actions in the current situation?
When we suffer for our own poor choices there is no glory only shame. When we are persecuted for standing in the truth of God’s word, the glory is God’s.
A saddened heart, tears of sorrow – this is the response to mayhem. Our eyes have been assaulted with scenes of willful violence and unrest against individuals and properties. Clearly, we see the bent of our sinfulness displayed in the rioting and looting and total disregard for authority among crowds that gather for the purpose of causing trouble.
Should we be surprised? Solomon tells us there is nothing new under the sun. Ecclesiastes 1:9 That which has been is that which will be, and that which has been done is that which will be done. So, there is nothing new under the sun. But it is embarrassing. The unsolicited degradation of mankind’s sinful nature. Could God wipe us all out in a spoken word or from a slight movement of His hand? Yes. Would He be justified in doing so? Absolutely. However, He will continue to protect those who are His. Hope is not lost for those who trust in His omniscient power; He is preserving an eternal future bereft of sin. For this, we can be overwhelmingly thankful. We can still have peace.
So, what do we do? Seek Truth from His word. Engross yourself in His righteousness.
Daniel 9:4-5 And I prayed to the LORD my God and confessed and said, "Alas, O Lord, the great and awesome God, who keeps His covenant and lovingkindness for those who love Him and keep His commandments, we have sinned, committed iniquity, acted wickedly, and rebelled, even turning aside from Thy commandments and ordinances.
We pray. We come before God with a heart that trusts in Him. We ask God to hear us and to fix us. We let our requests be made known to Him.
We ask forgiveness. We admit wrongdoing. We recognize and regret our hostility against God.
We praise God for His faithfulness. We praise God for His protection, His promises, and His mercy even in the midst of rebellion and undeservedness.
We call sin what it is – wickedness and rebellion. It is not a right, nor a freedom of speech. It is lawlessness.
Daniel 9:8-9 "Open shame belongs to us, O Lord, to our kings, our princes, and our fathers, because we have sinned against Thee. "To the Lord our God belong compassion and forgiveness, for we have rebelled against Him;
We admit our shame and our sin against God’s commands. No excuses, no blame on others, taking full responsibility for our own actions that dishonor His name. Our sin is the cause for confusion.
We trust in His compassion and forgiveness. God has a tender love for His creation. He will continue to show mercy because of who He is, not because we deserve it, but because of Christ’s ultimate sacrifice.
Our sinful nature is not unknown to God. The Word says we should not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among us. But we are to make certain we are not the direct cause of rebellion. When we suffer for our own poor choices there is no glory only shame. When we are persecuted for standing in the truth of God’s word, the glory is God’s.
1Peter 4:12-16 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though some strange thing were happening to you; but to the degree that you share the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing; so that also at the revelation of His glory, you may rejoice with exultation. If you are reviled for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. By no means let any of you suffer as a murderer, or thief, or evildoer, or a troublesome meddler; but if [anyone suffers] as a Christian, let him not feel ashamed, but in that name let him glorify God.
We can continue to rejoice in the name of Christ. We must share the hope we have in Christ. He alone is the only solution to a world that needs forgiveness.
As we continue to move through this challenging time in our world, navigating the guidelines of ‘safer at home’ born from the Covid 19 pandemic, we can either focus on what we believe we have missed out on or we can focus on what we know is promised for our future. The outcome of these choices is opposite to one another. The first will produce unrest and despair. The second will produce peace and hope.
“May grace (the divine influence upon the heart, and its reflection in the life; including gratitude) and peace (prosperity and quietness) be yours in the fullest measure” 1 Peter 1:2b.
Because –
The result of faith is the salvation of our soul (v.9)
1Peter 1:9 obtaining as the outcome of your faith the salvation of your souls.
We have a living hope, an inheritance in heaven, the protection of God’s power, opportunities to prove our faith, and a love for God that produces joy.
We like to set goals. We look ahead and plan for the next steps in our life. From the moment a child is born, each new achievement is celebrated – the first smile, the first time rolling over and sitting up, the first steps, the first tooth, and the first words. Then learning and formal education is encouraged as each level in school is passed. We plan for the future, thinking ahead to careers, relationships, family and retirement. We even hedge our plans with insurance. Think about this though – insurance does not stop something from happening. It only helps when things do occur. For instance, fire insurance will never produce the security that you will not have a fire, it will replace items lost to the fire. Health insurance will not prevent you from getting an illness, it will help pay the cost of your care. We could go on and on, the point is our plans, and all we do to protect those plans, have limits. This is all fine for our time on earth, but do we look ahead to eternity? Do you have life insurance? Not the kind that provides a benefit to those you leave behind, but the insurance that promises your eternal dwelling in heaven?
What insurance do you have for your soul?
What is your eternal goal?
These questions are more important than anything else we can address in our lives. 1 Peter 1:9 speaks about the outcome of our faith. There is a defined result of faith, a conclusion of our trust and belief when we die. Eternal life insurance is a one-time purchase only by the blood of Jesus. It is free to those who choose to receive it.
1Peter 5:4 And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.
Hebrews 10:36 For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God, you may receive what was promised.
Ro 6:22 But now having been freed from sin and enslaved to God, you derive your benefit, resulting in sanctification, and the outcome, eternal life.
What will be the outcome of your faith?
James tells us what saving faith looks like, how it is manifested in a person’s life.
James 1:21 Therefore putting aside all filthiness and [all] that remains of wickedness, in humility receive the word implanted, which is able to save your souls.
Have you humbly bowed before the Lord your God to accept His gift of salvation purchased through the death and resurrection of His Son, Jesus Christ?
In doing so, there is great cause for rejoicing. Your soul, that part of you which will continue on through eternity, is secure. Salvation is the object and result of faith. 1 Peter 1:9 addresses the assurance a believer has for their eternal life with Christ.
“Receiving--in sure anticipation; "the end of your faith," that is, its crowning consummation, finally completed "salvation". Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Commentary
“Receiving with unspeakable delight, as a full equivalent of all your trials, the great end of your faith, {even} the complete salvation of {your} souls; a prize of infinitely greater importance than all you can be called to sacrifice for its sake!” Philip Doddridge N.T.
As we continue to move through this challenging time in our world, navigating the guidelines of ‘safer at home’ born from the Covid 19 pandemic, we can either focus on what we believe we have missed out on or we can focus on what we know is promised for our future. The outcome of these choices is opposite to one another. The first will produce unrest and despair. The second will produce peace and hope.
May grace and peace be yours in fullest measure because your faith is based on the Cross.
We need to minor in self and major in Christ. True faith is placing your complete trust in Jesus Christ’s death and resurrection, claiming His sacrifice as your key to heaven.
“May grace (the divine influence upon the heart, and its reflection in the life; including gratitude) and peace (prosperity and quietness) be yours in the fullest measure” 1 Peter 1:2b.
Because –
Trials prove our faith (v.7)
1Peter 1:7 that the proof of your faith, [being] more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ;
The blessings of being born again, of our hope because of Jesus’ death and resurrection, the certainty of our heavenly home, and the protection of God’s power to sustain us for salvation, are the reasons we can be joyful. Even in the midst of trials and sorrow, nothing is able to touch our glorious future. There is more – trials prove our faith and the proof of our faith is valuable. In fact, the proof of our faith is desirable, something we should want. We do not glory in the difficulty, but rejoice in the result.
Is your faith real?
There is a difference between simply acknowledging facts verses trusting in them to be true. The first is intellectual assent, the second is heart embraced. Let us look a bit closer at these two possibilities.
Intellectual assent uses the rational mind to decide if something might work or might be true. It involves fact gathering and a conclusion based upon those facts. There is no heart response or life-changing revelation. Intellectual assent is merely the acknowledgement of information to be true. Only knowing who God is will not save you. Man can think so highly of his intellect and reasoning that it becomes difficult to recognize his need of a Savior.
Fully embracing something with your heart involves knowledge with trust. It means understanding the facts and adopting them as your own. It is humbly accepting that you need something and are unable to provide the answer. It is realizing that however intelligent you may be, it is impossible to fully understand God’s ways. We need to minor in self and major in Christ. True faith is placing your complete trust in Jesus Christ’s death and resurrection, claiming His sacrifice as your key to heaven. The word faith <pistis> is explained as the moral conviction and reliance upon Christ for salvation. It is the assurance that what God says is true. Therefore, sincere faith involves a confidence in the truth of God’s word. This is only possible through God’s grace working in the lives of His children.
The proof of our faith is more precious than gold. The KJV says it is much more precious than gold. Adam Clarke’s Commentary gives us a clearer understanding of the properties of gold. “Gold is defined by chemists to be the most perfect, the most ductile, the most tenacious, and the most unchangeable of all metals… When exposed to the action of the fire it becomes red hot before it melts, but in melting suffers no alteration; but if a strong heat be applied while in fusion, it becomes of a beautiful green colour. The continual action of any furnace, howsoever long applied, has no effect on any of its properties… Gold is so very tenacious that a piece of it drawn into wire, one-tenth of an inch in diameter, will sustain a weight of 500lbs. without breaking”.
James 1:2-4 Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have [its] perfect result, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.
When we seek to glean a small understanding of gold being refined by fire in order to purify it, we can begin to understand the necessity of trials in our lives. In addition, when we understand the reason for trials, our response is led to thankfulness and peace for the work God is performing to strengthen our faith. Revisit the beginning of this section of scripture. 1 Peter 1:2b reads, May grace and peace be yours in fullest measure. God’s work in your heart, the reflection of His love in your life, a heart of gratitude in understanding the gift of your salvation, and the quietness in your heart that stems from a secure future no matter the turmoil around you, are the hallmarks of a soul that fully relies upon God. This is the precious proof of your faith.
Your faith will be tested in one form or another.
Will it “be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ?
Job 23:10 "But He knows the way I take; [When] He has tried me, I shall come forth as gold.
Proverbs 17:3 The refining pot is for silver and the furnace for gold, But the LORD tests hearts.
James 1:12 Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life, which [the Lord] has promised to those who love Him.
2Thessalonians 1:11-12 To this end also we pray for you always that our God may count you worthy of your calling, and fulfill every desire for goodness and the work of faith with power; in order that the name of our Lord Jesus may be glorified in you, and you in Him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Check the genuineness of your faith. Is it mixed with imposters of pride, selfishness or worldliness? Is it something kept for ‘emergencies’? Is your faith only used as a security blanket?
What is your reaction to trials? Do you persevere in serving God? Do you complain?
Will your faith sustain you?
Read Matthew Poole’s Commentary of 1 Peter 1:7, “He compares the faith of the saints with gold, and argues from the less to the greater … If men do so far esteem their gold, that they will make the excellency and preciousness of it appear by trying it in the fire, which purgeth away the dross, and discovers the goodness of the metal; no wonder if God will have the faith of the saints (more precious to him than gold is to men) tried by afflictions, that the excellency of it may more fully be discovered”.
1Peter 1:13 Therefore, gird your minds for action, keep sober [in spirit,] fix your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.
1Peter 5:4 And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.
We will experience grief through various trials. Yet, nothing here on earth will change the joy we have in our future and in knowing Christ. External circumstances may cause sorrow yet God’s faithfulness is a reason to rejoice always.
“May grace (the divine influence upon the heart, and its reflection in the life; including gratitude) and peace (prosperity and quietness) be yours in the fullest measure” 1 Peter 1:2b.
Because –
Even though things are difficult, we can rejoice (v.6)
1Peter 1:6 In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials,
There is no rejoicing because of difficult circumstances however, we can continue to rejoice in and through trials because of our future and the certain hope we have in Christ. Those who are chosen are able to rejoice in the grace and peace of Christ given to them, because of His mercy (v.3), because of our inheritance reserved in heaven (v.4), because we are protected by His power for salvation (v.5).
The foundation for rejoicing through trials has been laid out for us in the previous verses. Notice the adjective attached to rejoice in verse six – greatly. This is more than just accepting difficult circumstances, it is moving through them with absolute knowledge that in the end all is well with our soul. Consider the account of Horatio Spafford. He survived the great Chicago Fire of 1871 in which he lost most of his real estate investment. Then in 1873, he planned to join his wife and four daughters on a transatlantic cruise after he finished some business. He sent them on their way, and later received tragic news that all four of his children had drowned when the ocean liner was in a freak collision with an iron tanker. Later, approaching the scene of the wreckage, he penned the hymn, “It Is Well with My Soul, (Wikipedia).
Is your soul well, filled with joy because of God’s promises?
Matthew Poole’s Commentary explains rejoicing as “an outward expression of the inward gladness of the heart”. Our hope is based upon what we know for the future – we are saved to glory, where at last we will be safe and secure in the presence of God. Therefore, we are able to greatly rejoice even through the distress of trials. We are able to rejoice in the truth of our present salvation and rejoice in the hope of our future reward. Jump ahead to the words in 1 Peter 1:9, “obtaining as the outcome of your faith the salvation of your souls”. In comparison to all eternity, our difficult circumstances are for a little while. The KJV translates this phrase to the word season. It literally means puny. Our trials may seem lengthy and overwhelming but this is because our context is wrong. We tend to look at things in the sense of time according to what we understand.
Is it possible we place too much significance on our circumstances here rather than our purpose for God’s future kingdom?
Days, weeks, months, years and decades are the means by which we measure our existence. Yet, our soul is eternal, lasting forever with Christ. Our calendar, compared with eternity, pales in its significance. As a visual, take a sheet of paper and mark a point with the sharp tip of a pencil. That point is our time on earth.
2Corinthians 4:17 For momentary, light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison,
Are trials necessary?
Most of us will encounter difficult circumstances that are unavoidable such as illness, death, and the effects of poor decisions made by others. There are those who have experienced flooding, fires, tornadoes, and all types of weather related disasters. Accidents happen every day; and each of us is touched at one time or another by the folly of man such as gossip, dishonesty, and pride. Certainly, God is able to take any trial away from us yet often He allows difficulties for our good. We may sorrow for the trial itself, but at the same time, we can rejoice in God’s care and the hope of our salvation.
Take a moment to think of the difficult times God has allowed in your life. Trials are designed to change our character.
How has God used challenges in your life to grow you spiritually?
James 1:2-4 Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have [its] perfect result, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.
1Peter 4:12 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though some strange thing were happening to you;
Not everyone will experience the same trials. We may hear of those who seem to experience difficult circumstances often and we know of those who rarely experience hardship. We definitely do not want to invite trials into our life but when they surface, we are to keep our focus on God’s purpose – the refining of our faith. Therefore, our attitude during difficult times should be one of rejoicing in God’s plan. This is having a smile on your soul and peace in your heart even while tears may be streaming down your face.
“God's design in afflicting his people is their probation, not their destruction; their advantage, not their ruin: a trial, as the word signifies, is an experiment or search made upon a man, by some affliction, to prove the value and strength of his faith. This trial is made upon faith principally, rather than any other grace, because the trial of this is, in effect, the trial of all that is good in us. Our Christianity depends upon our faith; if this be wanting, there is nothing else that is spiritually good in us. Christ prays for this apostle, that his faith might not fail; if that be supported, all the rest will stand firm; the faith of good people is tried, that they themselves may have the comfort of it, God the glory of it, and others the benefit of it.” Matthew Henry’s Commentary on the Whole Bible
Read this word picture from William Burkitt’s New Testament Commentary, “As the coldness of the winter kills the weeds in our grounds, so the cold blasts of affliction … kill our corruptions in our souls. Perpetual shinings and fair seasons are reserved for heaven: cold blasts and nipping frosts are needful and useful here on earth …”
We will experience grief through various trials. Yet, nothing here on earth will change the joy we have in our future and in knowing Christ. External circumstances may cause sorrow yet God’s faithfulness is a reason to rejoice always. When difficulties present themselves, either we succumb to temptation or we can choose to persevere in truth, proving the sincerity of our faith.
James 1:12 Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life, which [the Lord] has promised to those who love Him.
Peter was writing to the Christians who had been scattered throughout the region as outcasts. They were persecuted and had many temptations to renounce their faith. The reminder to keep focused on their eternal home would help them to remain faithful even while their hearts were heavy. Their faith was being tested.
What is your response when it seems difficult to do the right thing?
Do you succumb to the world or rejoice in the Truth?
Are you able to look at trials as an opportunity to grow in your faith?
Consider this. As a parent, I can remember many times when it would have been easier to ignore a potential problem in the way one of my children were acting or thinking. It was easier to avoid having to discipline. There is no happiness in causing those you love to be discouraged. Yet, love has a responsibility. Real love will allow some difficulty in order to teach and mature. Holding on to this same thought, I often wonder at the immense love my Savior has for me to allow hard circumstances in my life in order to refine my thinking. The fact that God even cares enough about me to know what I need to be strengthened in my faith is mind-boggling. There is a purpose in His plan to cause His children to be more like Him, to gain understanding and to grow in their trust of His promises. I am caused to kneel before Him and thank Him for His great love.
God will protect those who are His; He will preserve and guard them for Christ’s return. Philippians 1:6 reads, [For I am] confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus.
“May grace (the divine influence upon the heart, and its reflection in the life; including gratitude) and peace (prosperity and quietness) be yours in the fullest measure” 1 Peter 1:2b.
Because –
We are protected by God’s power (v.5)
1Peter 1:5 who are protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.
Who is who? The chosen, those called according to the foreknowledge of God, by the sanctifying work of the Spirit, according to His mercy by the resurrection of Jesus Christ. If you have not accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord – meaning you live according to His word, and Savior – meaning you recognize your need of Christ’s death on the cross to pay for your sins, then you are not able to claim the security of God’s protection. A personal relationship with Jesus is available to all yet is exclusive to those who humbly accept His grace.
What does it mean to be protected? We are kept, we are watched, we are guarded – in every which way. We are watched in advance and we are guarded from all directions. When looking to God for protection, we will not be overcome by anything that threatens us. Whatever our difficulties, afflictions or sorrows, we are absolutely secure in God. Picture the defense of a castle with turrets pointing in all directions. God’s protection is continuous, not only a defense when danger is seen but born from knowledge of all things that are to come.
Consider how well you are able to protect someone you love. Even with your best efforts, there is absolutely no guarantee you can keep harm from those in your care. I can recount several times that my children got hurt, either physically or by unkind words or actions of others. Bumps, bruises, stitches, broken bones, and broken hearts are part of living in the world. However, nothing is able to change our standing in Christ and the eternal salvation He has granted.
God’s children are protected by the power of God. His power is miraculous in its ability, abundance, intent, strength and wonder.
God’s power is able to accomplish anything. If we understand and believe this, there is never a reason to lose hope. What might seem impossible to us is never beyond the ability of God.
Matthew 19:26 And looking upon [them] Jesus said to them, "With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible."
Luke 18:27 But He said, "The things impossible with men are possible with God."
God’s power is always more than enough. We might be able to muscle our way through some difficulty barely making it ‘by the skin of our teeth’. God’s power is ample, given in quantities that never run out and never fall short.
Psalm 147:5 Great is our Lord, and abundant in strength; His understanding is infinite.
Isaiah 40:28 Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Everlasting God, the LORD, the Creator of the ends of the earth does not become weary or tired. His understanding is inscrutable.
God’s power is intentional. God’s power is characterized by purpose. Picture the common fairytale with a wand yielded by an imaginary character. The wand is pointed and sometimes results are what were desired; sometimes the results are a bit of a surprise. This is haphazard power at best. God’s power is given with knowledge; it is deliberate and is performed with a specific intent, His perfect plan.
Romans 8:28 And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to [His] purpose.
2Tmothy 1:8-9 Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, or of me His prisoner; but join with [me] in suffering for the gospel according to the power of God, who has saved us, and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was granted us in Christ Jesus from all eternity,
God’s power has no match in its strength. God has the power to save and the power to forgive sins. He has power over nature and the power to uphold all things by His word. Hebrews chapter 11 gives us a list of details how God manifested His power through those who believed in Him.
Hebrews 11:33 who by faith conquered kingdoms, performed [acts of] righteousness, obtained promises, shut the mouths of lions, quenched the power of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, from weakness were made strong, became mighty in war, put foreign armies to flight.
Psalm 93:4 The LORD on high is mightier than the noise of many waters, yea, than the mighty waves of the sea. KJV
Nahum 1:3 The LORD is slow to anger and great in power, and the LORD will by no means leave [the guilty] unpunished. In whirlwind and storm is His way, and clouds are the dust beneath His feet.
God’s power is full of wonder. Consider His miraculous creation. Consider His marvellous works.
Exodus 15:11 "Who is like Thee among the gods, O LORD? Who is like Thee, majestic in holiness, Awesome in praises, working wonders?
Psalm 77:14 Thou art the God who workest wonders; Thou hast made known Thy strength among the peoples.
Daniel 4:3 "How great are His signs, and how mighty are His wonders! His kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and His dominion is from generation to generation.
We are protected by the power of God through faith. Faith is the persuasion, acceptance, and moral conviction of the truthfulness of God. It is reliance upon Christ alone for salvation, the Gospel, assurance, belief and confidence in God.
Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is the assurance of [things] hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. Faith in a believer’s heart is bestowed through God’s grace, (Ephesians 2:8-9). We are saved by grace through faith and we can have confidence that God will keep us in His care.
Albert Barnes’ NT Commentary says God “does not keep us by the mere exertion of power, but He excites faith in our hearts, and makes that the means of keeping us. As long as we have faith in God, and in His promises, we are safe”.
Ours is not only a hopeful faith, it is a certain faith wrought by God’s own power.
For what are we protected? A salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. This is our final and ultimate rescue and deliverance. The Teacher’s Commentary states we will see complete victory over the fight in our flesh toward sin and we will witness complete deliverance from trials, persecution and sorrow.
John 10:28-29 and I give eternal life to them, and they shall never perish; and no one shall snatch them out of My hand. "My Father, who has given [them] to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch [them] out of the Father's hand.
This is incredible, this is our hope and this is Truth. If you follow Christ, you are secured by His power through faith for salvation.
Are you holding fast to the confidence you have in Christ?
During this time of uncertainty, how is your faith being manifested in your thoughts, actions and words?
“Who are, by the mighty power of God, through the means of their faith wrought in them by the Spirit of God, kept to the full obtaining and fruition of that salvation, which, having been purchased and revealed by Christ, is ready to be consummated in these last days of the world”, Hall’s Explication of Hard Texts.
God will protect those who are His; He will preserve and guard them for Christ’s return. Philippians 1:6 reads, [For I am] confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus.
Read this summary found in Philip Doddridge’s N.T. Commentary, “Who, though now surrounded with many apparent dangers, are not left defenseless, but are guarded as in a strong and impregnable garrison, by the almighty power of God, through the continued exercise of that faith which this almighty power wrought in your hearts; and he will still maintain it unto that blessed hour when you shall receive the complete and eternal salvation which is already prepared, and though now kept as under a veil, is to be revealed in its full radiance of glory, in the last time, the grand period, in which all the mysteries of divine Providence shall beautifully terminate.
God’s compassion cannot be used up; He never tires of our need for Him. God’s compassion is always available to the individual who reaches out to Him, and often is showered upon us even without our awareness.
“May grace (the divine influence upon the heart, and its reflection in the life; including gratitude) and peace (prosperity and quietness) be yours in the fullest measure” 1 Peter 1:2b.
Because –
1Peter 1:3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,
This is the gospel. Jesus died for the sins of mankind and rose from the dead, thus giving those who believe the hope of eternal life.
The motivator in the above verse is God’s mercy, His compassion towards mankind. We define compassion as having a deep awareness of and sympathy for another’s suffering; understanding the suffering of others and wanting to do something about it (WordWeb).
If we think about the concept of mercy or compassion in our human understanding, we sorely miss the implication of God’s mercy. Our compassion only extends as far as we are able to perceive someone’s circumstances. Our show of compassion is limited. How often have you tried to console someone while admitting you are not fully able to comprehend his or her pain? We get tired of showing compassion to another when it seems they are always ‘needy’. Is your attitude always one of desiring to help, or is it sometimes mixed with resentment because you have other pressing things to be done?
God’s mercy is perfect. He chose to fully embrace humankind because of His love. We deserve wrath yet He gives mercy. Mercy is something undeserved, God’s mercy is not based on our merits. God’s compassion is not limited; He knows and understands all things. God’s compassion cannot be used up; He never tires of our need for Him. God’s compassion is always available to the individual who reaches out to Him, and often is showered upon us even without our awareness.
Hebrews 4:15-16 says, For we do not have a high priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but One who has been tempted in all things as [we are, yet] without sin. Let us therefore draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and may find grace to help in time of need.
God’s compassion is described as great. The KJV uses the word abundant. It is plenteous. At this moment in time, the world is experiencing shortages of many items due to the Covid 19 pandemic. There does not seem to be enough medical supplies and equipment to handle the number of those infected. Paper goods and disinfectants are being rationed. Even before this virus, many individuals understood what it meant to have need. In direct contrast is the abundant mercy of our God - always enough, always available.
God’s great mercy is active. His love for us and His compassion for us was displayed in Jesus Christ. The mercy of God is so much more than a feeling, it is doing. It is more than coming alongside; it is providing the ultimate solution. It is more than simply being aware or having sympathy. God manifested His great mercy in the death and resurrection of His only Son.
How can we possible understand this and not shout for joy and thankfulness! This IS amazing grace!
1 Peter 1:3 begins with “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ”. Blessed literally means adorable. Not as in what is seen, but adoration belonging to God because of who He is and what He has done. God deserves the praise of all mankind for his infinite mercy to the world. The commencement of 1 Peter is full of gratitude and joy. We have a living hope because of God’s love; because Jesus conquered sin and death. Without the resurrection, our hope is dead. “Whatever enemies, snares, dangers, temptations, beset us in our way to heaven, we shall be more than conquerors, if God be our keeper, and if He implants true faith in our hearts, which never faileth” (Haweis).
Praise be to God for the greatness of our salvation and for the future awaiting us in His heavens. Even with the afflictions and troubles in the world, are you blessing God for His abundant mercy, which has caused you to have a glorious hope? What is your worship?
Romans 15:13 Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Our only deliverance from uncertainty and fear is in Christ.
During my study time a few days ago, I began reading in Exodus chapter fifteen. As usual, I did not get very far as my heart was led to contemplate Exodus 15:2, "The LORD is my strength and song, and He has become my salvation; this is my God, and I will praise Him; my father's God, and I will extol Him.
This verse comes after the Israelites crossed the Red Sea in victory over their enemies and deliverance from Egypt and the hands of Pharaoh. It is a song of praise to God for His Divine power and goodness. Moses led the Israelites in worship to God as their strength and confidence. God is the avenger of all difficulties, seen and unseen. He is sovereign in power.
The Israelites professed their dependence on God. Their past experience led them to confirm their present confidence. They recognized that God led them through their most troubling difficulties and His power in their time of need became the catalyst of their praise.
Read the words of Isaiah chapter twelve, “Behold, God is my salvation, I will trust and not be afraid; for the Lord God is my strength and song, and He has become my salvation. Therefore you will joyously draw water from the springs of salvation. And in that day you will say, ‘Give thanks to the Lord, call on His name, make known His deeds among the peoples; make [them] remember that His name is exalted. Praise the Lord in song, for He has done excellent things; let this be known throughout the earth. Cry aloud and shout for joy, O inhabitant of Zion, for great in your midst is the Holy One of Israel”.
Our only deliverance from uncertainty and fear is in Christ. We just celebrated Easter, His glorious resurrection proclaiming His power over all. Even during this unprecedented time of unknowns, isolation, sorrow, and struggle, I pray we are praising God for His victory over all that would thwart our trust in Him.
We can celebrate the confidence we have in Christ as our strength. Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary says, “Happy the people whose God is the Lord. They have work to do, temptations to grapple with, and afflictions to bear, and are weak in themselves; but His grace is their strength. They are often in sorrow, but in Him they have comfort; He is their song. Sin, and death, and hell threaten them, but He is, and will be their salvation”.
In Exodus 15:2, Moses proclaims God’s honor in His sovereign power, the Savior of His people, and the avenger of His enemies. I pray we are able to profess our complete dependence on God. Look to the protection God has shown you in the past and let that confirm your present confidence in His plan for your life.
My study time ended in Psalm 42, written by David as he cried for God’s peace in his soul.
As the deer pants for the water brooks, so my soul pants for Thee, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God; when shall I come and appear before God? My tears have been my food day and night, while [they] say to me all day long, "Where is your God?" These things I remember, and I pour out my soul within me. For I used to go along with the throng [and] lead them in procession to the house of God, With the voice of joy and thanksgiving, a multitude keeping festival. Why are you in despair, O my soul? And [why] have you become disturbed within me? Hope in God, for I shall again praise Him [For] the help of His presence. O my God, my soul is in despair within me; therefore I remember Thee from the land of the Jordan, and the peaks of Hermon, from Mount Mizar. Deep calls to deep at the sound of Thy waterfalls; All Thy breakers and Thy waves have rolled over me. The LORD will command His lovingkindness in the daytime; and His song will be with me in the night, a prayer to the God of my life. I will say to God my rock, "Why hast Thou forgotten me? Why do I go mourning because of the oppression of the enemy?" As a shattering of my bones, my adversaries revile me, while they say to me all day long, "Where is your God?" Why are you in despair, O my soul? And why have you become disturbed within me? Hope in God, for I shall yet praise Him, The help of my countenance, and my God.
The ‘song of Moses’ in Exodus 15 gave Divine praise and glory to God when the Israelites crossed the Red Sea to safety and looked behind them and saw their enemies destroyed. This song of triumph is repeated by the saints in the book of Revelation in celebration of their final deliverance from persecution as the enemy is destroyed. All honor is given to the one true God, our King, in this final glorious victory.
Revelation 15:3 And they *sang the song of Moses the bond-servant of God and the song of the Lamb, saying, "Great and marvelous are Thy works, O Lord God, the Almighty; Righteous and true are Thy ways, Thou King of the nations.
Are you able to say ‘The Lord is my Strength and my Song’?
Is God your salvation?
Do you praise Him for your deliverance from sin’s power?
Will you be counted with the saints in Christ’s final triumph?
We have much to be thankful for even in the midst of trouble. We have much to be joyful for as we look to our God. We have much to praise Him for, now and in the future to come!
Jesus willingly came to earth to pay the penalty for our sin. Because God loves us, He sent His Son to suffer the death we deserve. Jesus’ blood has set us free from eternal punishment. His resurrection set us free from the power of sin’s control.
It is April 11, 2020, the day before Easter Sunday, and the world is in a pandemic. Covid19 is showing its affects worldwide. The phrases ‘social distancing’, ‘safer at home’, ‘self quarantine’, ‘essential business’, ‘the curve’, and ‘shelter in place’ have become everyday vocabulary. There may be uncertainty in the world; however, there is absolute security in Christ. There are Truths we can stand on with confidence.
We are justified. We have peace.
Romans 5:1 Therefore having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ,
We stand in grace, we rejoice in hope.
Romans 5:2 through whom also we have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we exult in hope of the glory of God.
We find joy in difficulty because we know God is working in us.
Romans 5:3-4 And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope;
We are satisfied in God’s love.
Romans 5:5 and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.
HOW?
Romans 5:6-9 For while we were still helpless, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. For one will hardly die for a righteous man; though perhaps for the good man someone would dare even to die. But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from the wrath [of God] through Him.
Jesus willingly came to earth to pay the penalty for our sin. Because God loves us, He sent His Son to suffer the death we deserve. Jesus’ blood has set us free from eternal punishment. His resurrection set us free from the power of sin’s control.
Are you willing to answer the following questions honestly?
Does your faith produce peace?
Do you rest in God’s grace with hope for the future?
Do you find joy in all circumstances?
Are you certain of God’s love for you?
Will you kneel before your Lord and Savior as you remember His sacrifice?
Celebrate His Redeeming Grace, His Power, and His Mercy towards you! Have a glorious Easter because He lives!
Exodus 13:21 tells us of the nation of Israel as they go through unchartered territory. They have a guide, they have protection, and they have a purpose
Exodus 13:21 And the LORD was going before them in a pillar of cloud by day to lead them on the way, and in a pillar of fire by night to give them light, that they might travel by day and by night.
God goes before us. The Lord Jehovah, the Eternal God, secures the way we should go. To us, the path ahead may seem unclear, it may be filled with confusing turns and it may even seem there is no direction or purpose. However, God will point our way. He does not ask us to navigate unchartered territory. He knows exactly what lies ahead, and we are assured of His care and protection just as the Israelite nation looked to Him for their way to the Promised Land. Right now, we are unable to gather in a building for corporate worship yet the church is not built of mortar and stone. The church is built of those who love God and trust in Him. The Lord was with the Israelite church in the wilderness and He is with us in this unchartered territory.
God leads us. Consider clearing a path to make it more suitable for a walk. Trails that we might follow in nature have been cleared by another before us. Many of the largest obstacles have been removed, and looking forward, you can see the way to go. “Those whom God brings into a wilderness, He will not leave nor lose there, but will take care to lead them through it… Those who make the glory of God their end, and the word of God their rule, the Spirit of God the guide of their affections, and the providence of God the guide of their affairs, may be sure that the Lord goes before them though they cannot see it with their eyes: we must now live by faith”, Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary.
God protects us. God went before the Israelites by day in a pillar of cloud. Think, what does a cloud do? It covers the bright sunlight of day. It gives us shade and shelter. God protected His people from the intense heat as they followed Him. Patrick/Lowth/Whitby/Lowman Commentary says, “This cloud was a symbol of His gracious presence with them, and special providence over them”.
God was a pillar of fire by night to give them light. Think, what does light do? It enables us to see. When we use the phrase, someone is in the darkness, we are saying there is no understanding.
Have you chosen light over darkness; hope over fear?
Where is your refuge? Where do you seek cover?
God is our strength. A pillar is noticeable, usually a sign of strength and support. Many of our daily activities have ceased. Most of us are no longer going here and there with schedules that are filled. Unless you are considered an essential worker, you are home, only running necessary errands. Exodus 13:21 tells us of the nation of Israel as they go through unchartered territory. They have a guide, they have protection, and they have a purpose – to travel by day and night. Even in the wilderness, they are to keep going, to continue to walk forward as they follow God.
Are you growing in your dependence upon Him?
Are you taking this time to pursue God?
Nehemiah 9:19 Thou, in Thy great compassion, didst not forsake them in the wilderness; the pillar of cloud did not leave them by day, to guide them on their way, nor the pillar of fire by night, to light for them the way in which they were to go.
Each of us has a response to the current happenings in our world.
My grandson’s prayer this morning – “Dear Jesus, please make the bad germ go away”. Each of us, believers or not, would heartily say Amen to this prayer of a child.
Covid19 has turned most lives upside down. Some have gone from packed schedules to no schedules. Those in community service work have more responsibilities than they can handle, working double-shifts in order to accommodate those in need and keep our cities running. We actively try to steady our own fear while encouraging others to remain calm. It is surreal to think we are living through a pandemic that will be written in history books for generations not yet born.
The bad germ will go away. Lives will return to a new ‘normal’, whatever that is. Schedules will once again be packed, work will pick up, or slowdown in some cases. Fear will recede to the back of our minds. There will be scars, but we will go on. And, for some, the feeling of need for God’s intervention will sadly fade …
Will you still pray, “Dear Jesus”?
A five-year-old child understands the power of God’s hand. While no mortal man is able to corral Covid19, Jesus is able, and He will in His time. Jeremiah 32:17 says, “Ah Lord GOD! Behold, Thou hast made the heavens and the earth by Thy great power and by Thine outstretched arm! Nothing is too difficult for Thee”.
God’s power in the universe is displayed for all to see, from the tiniest of detail to the magnitude of the tallest mountain. Walk outside and notice the small detail on a flower made with stamens for the bee to collect pollen. This is the remarkable hand of our Creator. Look to the height of the hills around you and stand in awe of the One who caused them to form.
He will use this time in our lives for His glory and His purpose. Each of us has a response to the current happenings in our world. The most important question to ask others and ourselves is ‘Have you personally trusted in Jesus as your Lord and Savior? Will you lay aside the things of earth to follow the God of heaven? God’s great power is displayed in the miracle of saving souls. When explaining this to His disciples Jesus said, “With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible” (Matthew 19:26).
There is no one else able to save the soul of man. There is no One more powerful to place our trust in for all things. Will you kneel at Jesus’ feet as a child and pray – Dear Jesus.
True comfort, in all circumstances, is found in Christ alone, through His word. As we draw near to Him and receive His mercies, we are comforted. God will offer His perfect comfort in all circumstances.
This morning, as I was finishing a study I have been working on, I was greeted with a calendar reminder that Women’s Bible study would be starting in 30 minutes. Oh how I wish … However, as we lean on God’s perfect plan for each of us, we do have an opportunity to be strengthened in our trust in Him and share our hope with those who are struggling with peace. Schedules have changed, in fact some days I have to think about what I should be doing, as my calendar is sparse with plans that are viable at this time. My heart is heavy with the difficulty and sorrow people are facing – those I know who have tested positive for Covid19, who have relatives and friends that are extremely ill and not allowed by their bedside, who have lost wages and are financially suffering – yet, my heart is filled with joy as I ponder God’s mercy in calling me His child. Be encouraged! God is building our testimonies for His glory.
When circumstances were bleak, Paul burst out in praise to God for the blessings bestowed upon man.
2Corinthians 1:3-4 Blessed [be] the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort; who comforts us in all our affliction so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.
God is the Father of mercies. What does this mean? God chooses to show leniency and compassion toward mankind even though we are guilty. God offers forgiveness toward sinners.
Consider God’s mercy toward us. We do not deserve it and we cannot earn it, but He has chosen to notice us. Titus 3:5-7 He saved us, not on the basis of deeds which we have done in righteousness, but according to His mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit, whom He poured out upon us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, that being justified by His grace we might be made heirs according to [the] hope of eternal life.
God delights in mercy. All that is good is because of God. Mercy is part of God’s character.
Micah 7:18 Who is a God like Thee, who pardons iniquity and passes over the rebellious act of the remnant of His possession? He does not retain His anger forever, Because He delights in unchanging love. Unchanging love is translated from the same word for mercy.
The Father of mercies; a most amiable and comfortable relation; not the Father of mercy, or a merciful Father, barely, but the Father of mercies in the plural number to denote the greatness and multitude of his mercies, and that all mercy flows from him only and freely, as streams from an overflowing and never-failing fountain. William Burkitt New Testament notes.
God will show mercy towards the afflicted. Isaiah 49:13 Shout for joy, O heavens! And rejoice, O earth! Break forth into joyful shouting, O mountains! For the LORD has comforted His people, and will have compassion on His afflicted.
God’s mercy is plentiful, exceedingly great and always sufficient. Psalm 86:5, 15 For Thou, Lord, art good, and ready to forgive, and abundant in lovingkindness to all who call upon Thee. 15 But Thou, O Lord, art a God merciful and gracious, Slow to anger and abundant in lovingkindness and truth.
God’s mercy is abundant, plenteous. 1Peter 1:3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,
God’s mercy is everlasting. 1Chronicles 16:34 O give thanks to the LORD, for [He is] good; for His lovingkindness is everlasting.
God’s mercy is certain, faithful. Isaiah 55:3 "Incline your ear and come to Me. Listen, that you may live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, [According to] the faithful mercies shown to David.
God’s mercy is tender, compassionate. Psalm 25:6 Remember, O LORD, Thy compassion and Thy lovingkindnesses, for they have been from of old.
God’s mercy is new every morning, it never ends, and it never fails. Lamentations 3:22-23 The LORD'S lovingkindnesses indeed never cease, for His compassions never fail. [They] are new every morning; great is Thy faithfulness.
We can trust in God’s mercy. Psalm 52:8 But as for me, I am like a green olive tree in the house of God; I trust in the lovingkindness of God forever and ever.
We can rejoice in God’s mercy. Psalm 31:7 I will rejoice and be glad in Thy lovingkindness, because Thou hast seen my affliction; Thou hast known the troubles of my soul,
The God of all comfort.
Comfort <parakaleo> to call near, to invite, invoke (by imploration, hortation or consolation): beseech, call for, (be of good) comfort, desire, (give) exhortation, intreat, pray. This is the same word used by Jesus of the Holy Spirit as the Helper in John 14:16, "And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may be with you forever”.
True comfort, in all circumstances, is found in Christ alone, through His word. As we draw near to Him and receive His mercies, we are comforted. God will offer His perfect comfort in all circumstances.
John 16:33 "These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world."
2Thessalonians 2:16-17 Now may our Lord Jesus Christ Himself and God our Father, who has loved us and given us eternal comfort and good hope by grace, comfort and strengthen your hearts in every good work and word.
We find comfort through His promises and in His protection. The world, people and circumstances are unable to offer lasting comfort because change is inevitable; our future is not secure. In Christ, we are free from worry with a future that is certain, no matter what happens.
Psalm 146:3 Do not trust in princes, in mortal man, in whom there is no salvation.
Psalm 146:5 How blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the LORD his God;
James 5:11 Behold, we count those blessed who endured. You have heard of the endurance of Job and have seen the outcome of the Lord's dealings, that the Lord is full of compassion and [is] merciful.
“And the God of all comfort, the source of all consolation. Paul delighted, as all should do, to trace all his comforts to God; and Paul, as all Christians have, had sufficient reason to regard God as the source of true consolation. There is no other real source of happiness but God; and he is able abundantly, and willing, to impart consolation to his people.” Albert Barnes’ NT Commentary
Where is your confidence?
Who or what is your joy dependent upon?
Where is your gratitude centered? Are you grateful even in difficulty?
Where is your security?
Who is your source of consolation?
“The Father of mercies, and God of all comfort-Mercies are the fountain of comfort; comfort is the outward expression of mercy. God shows mercy in the affliction itself. He gives comfort both in and after the affliction. Therefore is he termed, the God of all comfort. Blessed be this God!” John Wesley’s Notes on the Old and New Testaments
God is the source of tender mercy and provides consolation to those who trust in Him. In the midst of trouble, peace is found in Christ as we look to His promises. Every difficult circumstance we experience gives us opportunity to remember and lean upon God’s mercy and comfort and gives us testimony of God’s faithfulness so that we might share with others where true peace is found.
Blessed [be] the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
When we understand that God is the source of all mercies and the author of comfort, we will not keep silent. Like the apostle Paul, even in the midst of hardship, we will burst forth in praise for God’s grace on our lives! What looks bleak to the world will be seen in the light of God’s promise to the believer. Because of His mercy, we know Him. I can think of no other thing of greater importance than to share with others the hope found in Christ.
So that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.
There are hearts that are fearful – peace is found in God.
There are hearts that are sorrowful – comfort is found in God.
There are hearts that are troubled – rest is found in God.
Answers may not be found for present difficulties, but trust in the One who has all understanding will provide a quietness of heart. We have an unshakeable foundation in God, blessed be His name. Praise God, take courage, be comforted, and be strengthened
Psalm 18:46 The LORD lives, and blessed be my rock; and exalted be the God of my salvation.
Psalm 72:19 And blessed be His glorious name forever; and may the whole earth be filled with His glory. Amen, and Amen.
Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Everlasting God, the LORD, the Creator of the ends of the earth does not become weary or tired.
It would be so easy to allow discouragement to take over right now. Most of us have been directly affected by Covid19 in some way. Weddings have been altered or postponed, graduations have been quiet, trips have been cancelled, babies are born without family visiting, and memorials of those we know and love who have passed on are held remotely.
Many individuals have learned to set up conference calls from home so they can continue to work, many others have been sent home without any return date for work. Still, those who are continuing to be needed in order to run our society, go into work in trepidation, wondering if they will be exposed to this virus and become the next casualty, or bring it home to their families.
Children are home all day every day. Their team sports and activities have been cancelled; their uniforms are left unworn, high-fives left undone. There is disappointment in considering the things we may be missing. The lack of social connection may be more difficult for some than others, yet there is no denying our lives have changed. We are used to celebrating and gathering. No one is immune to boredom, uncertainty, and depression. Hearts are in danger of becoming heavy with anxiety and concern.
If you have been to a store to pick up necessities, people keep their distance as directed by authorities. Empty shelves and long lines have become expected. The fight is real to remain focused on all that is good. I was surprised at my own response when my phone alerted me with several text messages, one right after the other. Instead of checking it right away, I waited and wondered if it would be news of someone I know having become ill. I now have a much better understanding of the word pandemic. If you look up the definition, you will read it is a disease spread over a wide geographical area, which affects a large portion of the population. From my observation alone, it appears the word panic should be included in the definition.
We may not have a cure for Covid19 at this time, but experts are diligently working to find one. It may seem that just about everything is completely out of control and this is perhaps a fair assessment. However, there is hope for boredom, uncertainty and depression. We are able to find peace in the midst of crisis.
What is the cure for boredom and weariness, uncertainty and depression? Jesus Christ, the Creator of the universe, the Lord and Savior of the world, holds the cure for mankind. There is no greater answer. However difficult this period of time might be, this is a reminder to those who know God that He is in complete control – even of those things that do not make sense to us or seem exceptionally difficult.
Isaiah 40:28-31 Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Everlasting God, the LORD, the Creator of the ends of the earth does not become weary or tired. His understanding is inscrutable. He gives strength to the weary, and to [him who] lacks might He increases power. Though youths grow weary and tired, and vigorous young men stumble badly, yet those who wait for the LORD will gain new strength; they will mount up [with] wings like eagles, they will run and not get tired, they will walk and not become weary.
Worldwide economic depression and mass unemployment, business closures, and even lives lost are not without God’s knowledge and understanding. There are opportunities in all of this to share the hope you have with those who need encouragement. If you have breath for today, you have reason to praise God.
Look inside your own heart and ask yourself, what or whom are you living for? What is your purpose in life? What do you look forward to? The answers to these questions, when based on Truth, are the same as they have always been. We live for God, our purpose is to glorify His name and we look forward to an eternity in heaven with Him. Nothing that has true value has changed at all! There is hope for the future. I pray you are encouraged.
Focus Heavenward, Sharyn.
@focusheavenward
thensingsmysoultothee.com
“Until Death Do We Meet”
And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, shall guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
There is a story of a friendship in the Bible that gives us a strong picture of faith and trust in God – Elijah and Elisha. In 2 Kings Chapter 2, Elijah was about to be taken up to heaven and Elisha was with him.
We have to pause right here and understand the significance of what is happening. The taking up of Elijah is usually what we concentrate on in this story because it’s an incredible miracle in itself. However, consider what else is about to happen: the loss of a friendship, a close friendship. Elijah would be leaving. Elijah was Elisha’s teacher, that person who probably knew him best. There was probably joy in Elisha’s heart for his friend, knowing what would soon take place. But think of the sadness that must be present also. Elisha knew that he would soon be without Elijah. Twice Elisha was questioned by others about what was to happen.
2Kings 2:3 Then the sons of the prophets who [were at] Bethel came out to Elisha and said to him, "Do you know that the LORD will take away your master from over you today?" And he said, "Yes, I know; be still."
2Kings 2:5 And the sons of the prophets who [were] at Jericho approached Elisha and said to him, "Do you know that the LORD will take away your master from over you today?" And he answered, "Yes, I know; be still."
Pay close attention to the response in both sections of scripture above. Be still. Consider. Elisha’s mentor, his best friend, his confidant, is about to leave forever. Humanly speaking, this is heart wrenching. Yet, we see the trust that is displayed in Elisha’s response to others who are unsettled. Imagine the thoughts of those around them. ‘Do something’! ‘How can you be okay with what is going to happen’? ‘Do you understand what is going to occur’? Elisha did fully understand. He also had complete faith in God and trusted in His plans. Be still.
In the KJV, the words are translated, ‘hold your peace’. Chashah: to hush or keep quiet, be silent, be still.
This is not ‘be still’ for a moment. It is keep still, ongoing, remembering continuously Who is in control, Who has the better plan – the perfect plan.
Psalm 46:10 "Cease [striving] and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth." Cease striving, what a needed phrase! It means to slacken, to abate, cease, to be faint, be feeble, be idle, to leave, to let alone, be still. Many of us need to learn how to be still!
There is painted for us in scripture a beautiful picture of giving up of ourselves, our concerns, our drive that something has to be done, and our attitude of fixing it, to the hands of God. Rest, be quiet, pray – He has it all under control. I cannot tell you how often I need to remember this as I am trying to serve within my many human limitations of strength and understanding! This is definitely not giving up as in ‘I quit’, rather, it is giving up to the One who can do anything and will do everything in His time and His plan.
Perhaps the oft-heard reminder of ‘letting go’ and ‘letting God’ is a good one. But not in the sense that the world views this phrase. The Bible does not tell us to let go and let God. We need to be discerning about what is truth and what just sounds good. The world has penned this phrase, not God. We are to be about doing, so just sitting back and letting things happen is not acceptable. Doing nothing, having no motivation, taking it easy, and watching the world around us is not our calling as God’s children. We are in the middle of a spiritual battle, and to do nothing would hardly be the purpose of a soldier. However, we do need to let go of the thought that we do need to let go of the thought that we are in control. We need to be diligent, we need to strive to serve with all the ability we have been given, but we also need to remember that God is the driver; it is His work in us and through us that we seek after. Let go – to the confidence you can have in Him, to the peace that results from that confidence, and the rest that comes from knowing He has a perfect plan.
Here, in the midst of suffering, we see peace from trusting in God’s purpose. Think of it as acquiescing to God’s plan and His power to bring things about perfectly. God does not need us to agree with Him, but when we choose to trust His plan, we are a step closer to peace. We need to ‘let go’ and ‘not be anxious’ about everything we cannot figure out or fix. Be still.
Philippians 4:6-7 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, shall guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
When we choose to be still in God’s plan, Philippians 4:8 tells us distinctly what we can be about doing as we wait and trust in God.
Philippians 4:8 Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, let your mind dwell on these things.
We are also encouraged by the promised result of following God’s truth as we look at the next verse in the same Chapter of Philippians.
Php 4:9 The things you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things; and the God of peace shall be with you.
Peace: quietness, rest
Be still…Be still…Be still…Be still…be still…be still.
Our confidence and security are found in Christ alone. Even in difficult or uncertain times, joy and peace can fill your heart when focused on God. The temptation of man is to try to figure things out for himself. It is difficult to live in an unsettled time, yet we have great assurance in God’s truths.
Trust in man results in fatal consequences for the future. Trust in God results in blessings now and for eternity. For a time, it might seem we do okay on our own, but we will eventually pay a price in the future and become confused in our direction. Following our own selfish desires rather than bowing before God’s direction through His word, will eventually lead to our destruction.
Do you trust in man or God?
Is your confidence in the Lord who created and knows all things, or is it in your own abilities or man’s intelligence?
You could say that right now, during this pandemic of Covid19, trust at its central core, is being challenged. If your trust is in your finances, take a look at the stock market. If your trust is in your employment, notice how many businesses have closed. If your trust is in your health, it seems no one is exempt from the possibility of catching this virus.
Jeremiah 17:5-6 gives us the result of trusting in man. Verses 7-8 tell of the blessings of trusting in God.
Jeremiah 17:7 "Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD And whose trust is the LORD.
Our confidence and security are found in Christ alone. Even in difficult or uncertain times, joy and peace can fill your heart when focused on God. The temptation of man is to try to figure things out for himself. It is difficult to live in an unsettled time, yet we have great assurance in God’s truths.
Are you walking closer with Him or walking away, seeking comfort in other areas?
“Trials will come, even as heat and drought try every tree, but faith sets the believer above circumstances, and makes him always flourish”. Spurgeon Devotional Commentary
Psalm 34:8 O taste and see that the LORD is good; how blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him!
Ps 84:12 O LORD of hosts, How blessed is the man who trusts in Thee!
Notice the wording of Jeremiah 17:7 – Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord and whose trust is the Lord. Not only is our trust to be placed in Jehovah God, our trust is Jehovah God. There is no room for anyone or anything else when it comes to our loyalty. Our trust resides in God, the character of who He is, what He has done and what He has promised. This is called security. This is called blessing, God’s favor upon His children.
How is man blessed by placing His trust in God alone?
Jeremiah 17:8 "For he will be like a tree planted by the water, that extends its roots by a stream and will not fear when the heat comes; But its leaves will be green, and it will not be anxious in a year of drought nor cease to yield fruit.
This is a clear word picture. Consider the contrast between a tree that has water coming from deep within the ground, and one that has an irregular sprinkling of water from the surface. The one grows large roots that run deep as they migrate toward their source of nourishment. The other grows shallow roots that lie on the surface. What happens when there is no rain and the ground dries out from heat and wind? The roots become weak. Have you pulled a dying tree or shrub from the ground only to find its roots were barley attached to the surface? It becomes obvious that it lacked the right nourishment to build a strong structure.
The tree is you. The waters are God. The source of your nourishment is God. When you are grounded in His truths, you will remain in them even as difficult circumstances come your way. Even better, you will continue to flourish, God will give you opportunities to share His hope and peace with others. Your trust in Him will remain strong and grow as you rely on Him. Your ministry may look different but it will continue.
Psalm 1:2-3 But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and in His law he meditates day and night. And he will be like a tree [firmly] planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither; and in whatever he does, he prospers.
God blesses each of His children as they trust in Him alone. In His truths, you can remain strong, hopeful, and joyful for the future.
Jesus came to save the lowly, the imperfect, sinners; all humankind are in need of a Savior. Without Christ, no one is ever good enough. No amount of good works will ever get a soul to heaven. We simply are unable to earn our own way.
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Leading up to verses 21-23 of Psalm 136, we read of God’s power and protection of His chosen people, Israel. No king was able to thwart God’s plan. God’s judgement upon those who are against His children is severe and complete.
The repeated phrase in Psalm 136 is “God’s lovingkindness is everlasting”. Let’s review what this means. His lovingkindness is his mercy and favor towards His children. Consider Israel’s rebellion against God. Certainly, they suffered from the consequence of their own sin. Their defiance of God brought difficult circumstances upon them, yet God did not throw up His hands and disown or even neglect them. He allowed their discipline, yet carried them through, never abandoning them completely.
What do these truths mean for you? If you are a child of God – meaning you have accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord, choosing obedience to Him, and you recognize your need of Jesus as your Savior who died for your sins – then you have God’s protection. His mercy and favor is showered upon you. Even when you are unfaithful He will remain faithful in His love for you.
God’s love and mercy is opposite to the love we often display. We only go so far, we become discouraged and give up on people, and we tend to display acts of love only when it is earned. Our love is often conditional, and dependent upon our feelings. God’s love is perfect, consistent and independent of our actions. How do you respond to these truths? Is your heart full of thankfulness for God’s unconditional love? Are you reminded to show this same love towards others? In other words, when God is so willing to shower His love upon you even though you are undeserving, who are you to withhold love from another?
Not only is God’s love perfect, it is forever. There is no limit, no end, and no point in which He will completely withdraw His love from His children. Consider this, when you discipline young children does this mean you no longer love them? Of course not! It is loving to teach them right from wrong and help them avoid negative consequences. This is only a fraction of the picture of God’s love for you. Perfect, abiding love is incomprehensible, yet because of God’s mercy, we have it.
Psalm 136:21 speaks of God’s intended blessing, or inheritance, for the nation of Israel, despite their disobedience. Psalm 136:21 says, “And gave their land as a heritage, for His lovingkindness is everlasting”. This verse follows the account of God’s power in slewing the mighty kings who tried to thwart His plan. God not only annihilated these kings but also blessed Israel with the spoils. Why? Because His lovingkindness is everlasting!
Read what Spurgeon says in the Treasury of David, “As Lord of the whole earth He transferred His estate from one tenant to another. The land did not become the property of the Israelites by their own sword and bow, but by a grant from the throne”.
What inheritance do you have as God’s child? If you know Jesus as your Lord and Savior and have placed your complete trust in Jesus’ death and resurrection for the full payment for your sin, then your name is written in God’s will. It cannot be changed. It cannot be erased or questioned or modified. What comes with your inheritance is God’s protection, strength and care for your life on earth. This doesn’t mean there will be no difficulties, in fact we should expect difficult circumstances because people are sinful, but it does mean that you can trust God in all things. There is no fear of man or things being out of the control of God. He’s got you covered!
Psalm 136:22 goes on to say, “Even a heritage to Israel His servant, for His lovingkindness is everlasting”. Each blessing God chooses to bestow upon His children, magnifies His grace to them. Having our heritage in Christ is repeated in this verse so we should pay particular attention to this truth. Our heritage is guaranteed.
Israel as a nation is referred to as God's servant in this verse. Do you serve Christ? Have you recognized His grace? Do you willingly place yourself at His feet? What does it mean to serve? We all serve someone or something. Often it is ourselves we place on the throne of service – our wants, our needs, our likes, our dislikes, whatever makes us happy and gives us the feeling of fulfillment. Be willing to ask yourself who you serve. What is your purpose in life?
Christ did not come to earth to serve Himself. He came as an offering for sin for God’s children who are completely undeserving of His sacrifice. Christ came to serve God as the only way for us to be redeemed. There is no self in what Christ did. Philippians 2:5-8 reads, “Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus, who, although He existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant, [and] being made in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross”.
God’s lovingkindness assures His children of their inheritance in the kingdom of heaven – even though we are totally undeserving! This is what Psalm 136:23 says, “Who remembered us in our low estate”. Wow!
Remember who we are talking about.
The Lord Jehovah, the self-Existent, Eternal name of God (v.1).
The God of gods, Elohiym, the supreme God, mighty in all His ways (v.2).
The Lord of lords, Adoni, Sovereign over all, the One in control, Master and Owner (v.3).
This is who remembers us! In our human thinking, we can desire to be known by a certain group or person. To be part of the life of someone we admire is encouraging. There are all kinds of groups centered on belonging. We feel good when we are part of something bigger.
As God’s child, we are known by Him, we have been adopted into His family, and we belong in His eternal kingdom. Along with these truths, we are cared for by Him, strengthened by Him, made wise by Him, protected by Him, disciplined for our good by Him, encouraged by Him and unconditionally loved by Him. And His word says He remembers us – even in our low estate, even though we are undeserving and cannot begin to earn a place in His presence, God reaches down and secures for us a place with Him. Why?
Because His lovingkindness is everlasting, God’s mercy to us will endure forever – even though we are undeserving. Think of the account of Noah and punishment upon the whole earth. After a time, God caused the water of the great flood to subside. Genesis 8:1 says, “But God remembered Noah and all the beasts and all the cattle that were with him in the ark; and God caused a wind to pass over the earth, and the water subsided”.
We might think we are not good enough to have a place in God’s presence. We are absolutely correct in that thought. Yet, we must remember that God did not send His Son for perfect people (there are none). Jesus came to save the lowly, the imperfect, sinners; all humankind are in need of a Savior. Without Christ, no one is ever good enough. No amount of good works will ever get a soul to heaven. We simply are unable to earn our own way. Identifying with a certain faith does not save you. Baptism will not save you. Going to church every Sunday will not save you. No amount of anything you do is able to save you. Complete dependence on the blood of Jesus shed for your sins is the only ticket to eternal life.
Psalm 113:7 says, “He raises the poor from the dust, and lifts the needy from the ash heap”. 1Samuel 2:8 uses similar words, "He raises the poor from the dust, He lifts the needy from the ash heap to make them sit with nobles, and inherit a seat of honor; for the pillars of the earth are the LORD'S, and He set the world on them”.
What does this mean practically for God’s children? How does this truth apply to your life? God is always here to help us just as He delivered Israel from captivity in Babylon. If God can deliver an entire nation, do you think He is able to help you? How big is the God you trust? News alert – He does not need your intervention to accomplish His will.
I recently had a conversation with someone who is justifiably concerned with the subject of what is being taught and allowed in our public school system. It is difficult to hear that your young child is being directed to explore ideas that are worldly and sinful and directly against the commands of God. So, what do we do about this real problem? Not everyone is able to put their children in Christian schools, and not everyone is able to choose homeschool as an option. Will God protect His children from the wiles of Satan? Absolutely! Are the lies of mankind greater than the power of God? No way! But we do have a responsibility to be diligent to present God’s Truth from His word wherever and whenever we are able, especially in our homes and with our families.
God’s lovingkindness is everlasting. His plan will prevail, He will continue to bless His children and protect them even though they are undeserving.
In all of this weird chaos, let us not forget the peace that affords those who have placed their trust in Jesus. There is no need for panic – God is in control.
Panic is an overwhelming feeling of fear and anxiety, a sudden mass fear over anticipated events (WordWeb). It is a feeling of being scared and of terror.
The coronavirus, or CoVid-19, has produced mass panic around the world. According to an article in The Atlantic, dated March 11, 2020, Italy had over 10,000 cases of the virus and there were simply too many cases to give each patient adequate care.
Listen to the news and you will hear of the quick spread and overwhelming numbers of people this virus has infected. The word quarantine is not often part of our vocabulary. The closest I remember is when we got the mumps as a kid and a quarantine paper was posted on the front door of our house. This was expected and made complete sense since we were contagious. As the news channels continue to report the cancellation of iconic travel destinations around the world, we are left with wondering how we are to react.
Businesses, schools, churches, sports events, meetings and conferences, and almost every place of large social interactions have been closed. Is this an epidemic that should cause a response? Absolutely. However, how should we respond?
I had not personally felt any real concern and certainly had not felt panic even when I heard reports of lines forming outside stores because people were stocking up on toilet paper, sanitizer, and water. I was at a small chain grocery store last week and questioned the worker at the checkout line about the large sign that stated there was a limit of 2 cases of water per person. Both of us chuckled a bit at what seemed to be an over-reaction.
Yesterday afternoon, I drove to a large warehouse chain because my printer ran out of ink. I was hit with the reality of what panic looks like. I am typically slow to react and often under-react at situations. However, just being in the midst of a sense of urgency as people loaded their carts with canned goods, rice, pasta and every type of cleaner available, I felt my heart begin to beat a bit faster. Out of curiosity, I pushed my cart up and down the aisles. I saw something I had never seen before – bare shelves. It was actually a mental challenge not to begin to feel a sense of panic. I had to continually remind myself there was no reason to join the frenzy. I did purchase a few extra items I thought would be helpful to have just in case of – ‘I don’t know what’.
Each of us absolutely needs to follow the instruction of those in charge. We have authority in place for a reason. So if they say stay home I will. We can all act responsibly to lessen the chance of someone getting ill. Praise God we live in a time of social media where we are able to stay in touch and continue to encourage one another. I am thankful the church I attend will stream their Sunday service online. We can all be there in spirit and still follow the guidelines of our government.
In all of this weird chaos, let us not forget the peace that affords those who have placed their trust in Jesus. There is no need for panic – God is in control. He is not surprised by this outbreak. He has the power to work in the lives of those who practice medicine, to make the best decisions possible for everyone. Whatever befalls us, it is because in God’s perfect wisdom He allows it. We have an incredible opportunity to spread our reason for hope when others may be fearful. Please share with those around you that if they turn to Christ, their panic will turn to peace.
John 14:27 "Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives, do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful.
The example to emulate is generosity stemming from a heart that loves God. No expectation of repayment but instead an opportunity to reach out to those in need. Do we treat all that God has blessed us with as an opportunity to bless others?
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Ruth 2:13-16
We are continuing to look at the dialogue between Boaz and Ruth. Boaz, in verse twelve had encouraged Ruth by recognizing her trust in God. Now, in verse thirteen, we read Ruth’s response to his kindness.
Ruth 2:13 Then she said, "I have found favor in your sight, my lord, for you have comforted me and indeed have spoken kindly to your maidservant, though I am not like one of your maidservants."
Several translations of this verse read, “Let me find favor in your sight”. In her response, Ruth still exemplifies a heart of humility in accepting the kindness Boaz has offered. She does not demand rights neither does she expect them. She places herself last among the servants working for Boaz. Ruth is still acutely aware that she is a foreigner and no act of favor is taken for granted. Fast forward to the end of this book and recall how God takes the lowly and lifts them to a place of honor. Ruth’s lesson of continued humility is important for each of us to grasp. What might having a heart of humility look like in your present circumstances? How is your response affected when your attitude is humble?
Proverbs 15:33 The fear of the LORD is the instruction for wisdom, and before honor [comes] humility.
Philippians 2:3 Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind let each of you regard one another as more important than himself;
Boaz sets an example of showing comfort and kindness even though it is not necessarily required. This means in a favorable sense to show pity – compassion for the misfortunes of others. Boaz regards Ruth’s position with understanding. I wonder how often we neglect to reach out to others – especially those ‘different’ from ourselves – with a heart of understanding. When difficult circumstances encroach upon someone’s life, do we take the time to show compassion?
Ruth 2:14 And at mealtime Boaz said to her, "Come here, that you may eat of the bread and dip your piece of bread in the vinegar." So she sat beside the reapers; and he served her roasted grain, and she ate and was satisfied and had some left.
Boaz was introduced to us in the first verse of this chapter. He was a man of valor and strength, a man of wealth and part of the family of Elimelech. He was kind to his servants, desiring that the Lord blessed them. He was cognoscente of those working for him and he paid particular attention to Ruth. He asked questions of those around him in order to get understanding and he honored the faithfulness of Ruth as he heard of her care for her mother-in-law Naomi. In verse fourteen of this chapter, we continue to hear of his special kindness towards this young foreigner.
Ruth was told to sit with the hired workers and take part in the meal prepared for them. Here is an example of Boaz reaching out to the needy. And he did so with great generosity. Notice that Ruth did as she was directed but still remained a bit distanced from the group – the word beside is translated ‘off to the side’ – continuing to show her humility. Boaz either ate with them or at least was present as his reapers had their meal. Ruth was handed the parched corn or grain and apparently the quantity was so large that she had some left. Consider the generosity of Boaz and read these additional sections of scripture that describe showing care to others.
Job 31:16-22 “If I have kept the poor from [their] desire, or have caused the eyes of the widow to fail, or have eaten my morsel alone, and the orphan has not shared it (But from my youth he grew up with me as with a father, and from infancy I guided her), If I have seen anyone perish for lack of clothing, or that the needy had no covering, if his loins have not thanked me, and if he has not been warmed with the fleece of my sheep, If I have lifted up my hand against the orphan, because I saw I had support in the gate, let my shoulder fall from the socket, and my arm be broken off at the elbow”.
Luke 14:12-14 And He also went on to say to the one who had invited Him, "When you give a luncheon or a dinner, do not invite your friends or your brothers or your relatives or rich neighbors, lest they also invite you in return, and repayment come to you. "But when you give a reception, invite [the] poor, [the] crippled, [the] lame, [the] blind, and you will be blessed, since they do not have [the means] to repay you; for you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous."
Matthew 20:25-28 But Jesus called them to Himself, and said, "You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and [their] great men exercise authority over them. "It is not so among you, but whoever wishes to become great among you shall be your servant, and whoever wishes to be first among you shall be your slave; just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many."
The example to emulate is generosity stemming from a heart that loves God. No expectation of repayment but instead an opportunity to reach out to those in need. Do we treat all that God has blessed us with as an opportunity to bless others? Do we hold tightly to what we consider ‘ours’? Do we use power or position to oppress those who are weak? When we recognize all things come from God then we are more likely to use our resources for His glory. In what ways are you able to share with others? Do you quickly respond to need with an open heart and hand? How might this be a struggle?
Before we move on to the next verse, consider this question. How would you define someone’s character? How is someone’s character proven? Think of what defines a person, the attributes that would determine this description and how those qualities are demonstrated. If someone were to ask you for a character reference, think what you might write.
Ruth 2:15 When she rose to glean, Boaz commanded his servants, saying, "Let her glean even among the sheaves, and do not insult her. Boaz thinks ahead and, true to his character, continues to watch out for Ruth. He commands his employees to let Ruth gather along with them rather than follow behind and pick up what has been left. This would allow Ruth to collect the best of the harvest. Boaz’s workers are advised to treat Ruth with kindness so that she will not feel ashamed for her need or position. At this point Ruth must feel as if angels are watching over her, certainly she recognizes the preference given her. God always blesses a heart of humility which desires to follow Him.
Isaiah 66:2 "For My hand made all these things, thus all these things came into being," declares the LORD. "But to this one I will look, to him who is humble and contrite of spirit, and who trembles at My word.
Psalm 51:17 The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; A broken and a contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise.
Matthew 5:3 "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
James 4:10 Humble yourselves in the presence of the Lord, and He will exalt you.
Remember that gleaning was set up by Jewish Law to provide for the poor and needy which in that time and culture included widows. Notice that Boaz instructed his reapers to allow Ruth to glean among the sheaves. Adam Clarke’s Commentary says, “This was a privilege; for no person should glean till the sheaves were all bound, and the shocks set up”. In other words Ruth was being allowed to gather the best of the harvest. If the workers had not been forewarned by Boaz it is possible they would have reprimanded her for jumping in to help herself before they were done harvesting.
Read the commentary from Family Bible Notes regarding Boaz, “A generous mind will avoid reproaches and every thing calculated to wound the feelings of the poor, and will delight to aid them in their efforts, by industry and economy, to provide for themselves and those dependent upon them”. This is an incredible view of the compassion of Boaz towards Ruth. He made it possible for her to provide for herself and Naomi in a way which was honorable and successful. He did not just hand the grain to Ruth but he allowed her to work for it which fulfills the necessity we all have to care for ourselves and those we are responsible for.
If we are in need, do we expect a handout or are we willing to do whatever is necessary to help ourselves? If we have resources to share, are we generous but also mindful of how we supply help? What might this look like in current situations today? The Bible says we ought to work to provide for ourselves.
2Thessalonians 3:10 For even when we were with you, we used to give you this order: if anyone will not work, neither let him eat.
How do we show compassion yet not enable idleness?
Ruth 2:16 continues with instruction for Boaz’s workers. “And also you shall purposely pull out for her [some grain] from the bundles and leave [it] that she may glean, and do not rebuke her”. This couldn’t be clearer. They were to purposefully drop some of the stalks of grain for Ruth to pick up. There was no possible way Ruth could have failed at gathering enough grain! And again there is a warning to the workers to keep their snide remarks to themselves. As you read this, what are you thinking in terms of application for yourself? Boaz’s warning to his workers to be mindful of their reactions towards Ruth causes me to think of how quickly I might judge someone’s behavior without having true knowledge. Also, take note of the generosity extended towards Ruth.
Are we careful to help others succeed? Do we think ahead of how we might encourage and help them in their endeavors? When someone gets ‘lucky’ do we resent their blessing and think contemptuous thoughts? When we do help others, do we attach expectations to our gift of time and resources? Consider the following scriptures.
Matthew 25:40 "And the King will answer and say to them, 'Truly I say to you, to the extent that you did it to one of these brothers of Mine, [even] the least [of them,] you did it to Me.'
1John 3:17-18 But whoever has the world's goods, and beholds his brother in need and closes his heart against him, how does the love of God abide in him? Little children, let us not love with word or with tongue, but in deed and truth.
Romans 12:9 Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil; cling to what is good.
1Timothy 1:5 But the goal of our instruction is love from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith.
1John 4:20 If someone says, "I love God," and hates his brother, he is a liar; for the one who does not love his brother whom he has seen, cannot love God whom he has not seen.
Review some applications of Ruth 2:13-16.
A heart of humility accepts kindness, learning to say thank you.
A heart of humility does not expect or demand help.
True generosity comes from a heart that recognizes all is a blessing from God. Sincere giving has no expectation of return.
Think of how your character might be described. Is God honored?
Consider what it means to have compassion on those in need and how you might help them succeed.
What additional application are you able to make toward your own circumstances?
We cannot miss this truth – God’s lovingkindness is everlasting. His kindness and forgiveness towards sinners through the sacrifice of His Son, Jesus Christ has paved the way for all to claim the promises of His care now and for eternity.
Our repeated phrase in Psalm 136 is “For His lovingkindness is everlasting”. What is God’s lovingkindness? His mercy, His favor and His goodness is extended to His children. When we think of mercy, it is compassion shown towards the guilty. It is not giving offenders the sentence which they truly deserve. In our case, we deserve death as the penalty for sin. Because of God’s mercy, Christ has taken upon Himself our penalty and we have received clemency – freedom from the sentence we owe. We have received God’s favor – His special grace and the privilege to be called His children. The benefits of His protection, His power, His forgiveness, His care, His love, and the list goes on, are poured upon His children in great quantity. Anything of lasting value, all things pleasing and useful towards God’s glory has been given to His children. Let us keep this in mind as we pick up our study in Psalm 136 with verse 24.
Psalm 136:24 says, “And has rescued us from our adversaries, for His lovingkindness is everlasting”.
Be still for a moment and hear the cavalry rescue tune playing in your mind. As a child of God, you are promised deliverance from your opponents. You may be thinking to yourself that this does not make much sense because you have experienced trouble many times. There is perhaps not a single individual who has not been hurt or challenged, cheated or wrongly accused, or attacked. So how can we say that God delivers us from opposition?
Verse 24 says He has rescued or redeemed us. Specifically, in this scripture, the deliverance of the Israelites is being addressed. Israel was brought low into slavery and needed to be set free from their oppression. In the same way, people are under the hold of sin and need to be rescued by their Redeemer, Jesus Christ.
We may suffer the effects of a sinful world, yet we have indeed been redeemed from the power of sin’s hold as God’s children. No matter how bad circumstances may seem, as God’s child, you have been rescued. What does this understanding mean for you? How does this truth affect the way you think or your attitude? With your sight and purpose focused on Him, you simply cannot fail and you have the power to resist sin’s grip. Is there any reason to be downhearted or feel depressed? Sometimes, God does allow us to feel the pain of a poor decision either stemming from our own thinking or someone else’s. Yet, God has not walked away from us; He is always by our side and will come to the rescue, as He did in the case of His chosen people.
Several years ago, we brought home a French bulldog puppy. Cute as can be but not so brilliant, this dog can make you laugh at her silly moves. However, she is somewhat clumsy and built like a small tank, compact and heavy for her small size. As I was in the middle of giving a piano lesson in the front room one afternoon, my other students were at the kitchen table doing homework, waiting for their turn. The kitchen is in the back of the house and has large windows that look out into the yard. Suddenly, one of my students quickly came into the front room where I was teaching and asked if Lily – our French bulldog – knew how to swim. I looked at her with somewhat raised eyebrows. They knew not to interrupt a lesson. My student went on to explain that Lily had fallen in the spa! I rushed out into the cold February weather and saw our puppy struggling to keep her head above water as she frantically splashed – bulldogs do not float! I quickly reached down into the ice-cold water and scooped up a panicked, bewildered, and water-logged dog, saving her from drowning which most certainly would have been her outcome, had no one seen her. Thankfully, there had been several pairs of little eyes watching her. She was wrapped in warm towels and suffered no lasting effects, but she did shiver for quite some time as her body warmed up and calmed down. She also learned not to get close to the edge of the pool.
God may allow us be uncomfortable in order to grow our dependence on Him. He may allow consequences for poor choices we make. We may be unfairly criticized or accused. Sin in the world hurts innocent and guilty people alike. But, a child of God possesses His perfect protection from the final penalty of sin, eternal death. God has snatched His children from the adversary. He has reached down to rescue you. His eyes are watching you at all times and He is always with you.
God rescued the Israelites even while they were disobedient, undeserving of His care. Exodus 15:3 says, “In Thy lovingkindness Thou hast led the people whom Thou hast redeemed; In Thy strength Thou hast guided [them] to Thy holy habitation”. Titus 2:14 speaks of our redemption from sin, “who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself a people for His own possession, zealous for good deeds”.
Consider the many times God has rescued you. Has He turned your direction or caused you to think different? Has God helped you to keep your words silent? Has He given you a sense of peace even through trials? Saying God has redeemed you from sin means you are free. Free from becoming entangled by its snares. Are you able to find joy in difficult situations? It is because God has allowed you to think according to His truths. Your body, mind and soul are under God’s grace. Why? What is the repeated phrase in this Psalm? Because His lovingkindness is everlasting. God’s children have been snatched away from sin; they have been redeemed by Christ’s blood because God is merciful and enduring in His love.
Psalm 136:25 Who gives food to all flesh, for His lovingkindness is everlasting.
Consider where your food comes from. Contrary to what you might initially think, it does not come from the dining room, the grocery store or even the fields. God has chosen to provide mankind and every living thing with food according to His plan.
Psalm 104:27 says, “They all wait for Thee, to give them their food in due season”. God’s goodness reaches towards all living creatures, all His creation. Can you say that there has ever been a time when God has not cared for you? Read Matthew 6:30, "But if God so arrays the grass of the field, which is [alive] today and tomorrow is thrown into the furnace, [will He] not much more [do so for] you, O men of little faith?
The only correct response we can have for God’s provision for all creation and His special care for His children is a heart of gratitude. His lovingkindness has no bounds. Think upon the air you breathe the ground on which you are standing – all things are from God because of His endless mercy.
Psalm 136 ends as it began, “Give thanks to the God of heaven, for His lovingkindness is everlasting” (v.26).
“O raise your hearts to give him thanks with the highest praises; whose power extends itself beyond this earth, even unto the highest heavens: for his kindness is so unwearied, that we may hope from thence to be ever receiving more and more his blessings”, Patrick/Lowth/Whitby/Lowman Commentary.
Psalm 115:3 But our God is in the heavens; He does whatever He pleases.
Psalm 123:1 To Thee I lift up my eyes, O Thou who art enthroned in the heavens!
Do you have a heart of gratitude –
Towards the LORD, the God of gods, the Lord of lords?
For His creation, the sun, moon and stars?
For His protection and deliverance from opposition?
For His miracles and strength?
For His love towards you even while you are undeserving?
For your rescue from the grips of sin?
We cannot miss this truth – God’s lovingkindness is everlasting. His kindness and forgiveness towards sinners through the sacrifice of His Son, Jesus Christ has paved the way for all to claim the promises of His care now and for eternity. God’s favor upon His children continually pours blessing upon them. Everywhere we look, we can see His hand of mercy. Where we deserve wrath, He extends love. Moreover, His love has no limit of time, it will last forever. Is this the God you have placed your soul trust in?
The Spurgeon Devotional Commentary ends its comments on Psalm 136 with this statement, “The Lord reigneth in the highest above all, making heaven the throne of his glory. Our Father which art in heaven, hallowed be thy name”.
It is not our hard work that accomplishes anything but the ability to work hard that comes from God. It is not our intelligence that garners our understanding but the intelligence that God gives.
Ruth responds in humility to the kindness of Boaz, she did not expect or think she deserved his favor. After Boaz assured her of her safety and welcome in his fields, verse 10 describes her reaction.
Ruth 2:10 Then she fell on her face, bowing to the ground and said to him, "Why have I found favor in your sight that you should take notice of me, since I am a foreigner?"
Ruth cast her eyes down being overwhelmed and prostrated herself before Boaz. She placed herself in a position of inferiority. The culture of that day would signify her behavior as one of reverence and gratitude towards Boaz. We see this same posture when Joseph was governor and his brothers came needing food (Genesis 42:6). Also, in Matthew 2:11 when the Magi presented gifts to Jesus. There are many accounts of showing humility and reverence in the Bible.
Consider much of what we see today in the attitude of individuals. There is a permeating attitude of deservedness in our culture. We get caught up in wondering why someone did not treat us better, or the idea that something is not fair. We want accolades for who we are and what we have accomplished. We feel slighted when we are not recognized by individuals who are placed above us. Basically, we often think higher of ourselves than we ought. In fact, a humble attitude is easily overlooked in the world, even considered weak. Yet, the example we are shown throughout God’s word is to have a heart of humility, the opposite of pride and arrogance and deservedness.
Ruth questioned Boaz about his kindness to her especially because she was not from Bethlehem. Perhaps she thought Jewish law may not apply to her in gleaning the fields. Remember, the Jewish nation disdained the Moabites who were known as enemies of God. Boaz however shows kindness where kindness needs to be shown. Are we able to say this of ourselves? Or are we selective, or too busy, or consider it to be someone else’s job? Do we show mercy only to the extent we consider necessary? Are we willing to help others where they need help?
Read Jesus’ words in Matthew 25:35-36, “For I was hungry, and you gave Me [something] to eat; I was thirsty, and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger, and you invited Me in; naked, and you clothed Me; I was sick, and you visited Me; I was in prison, and you came to Me”.
James 2:15 says, “If a brother or sister is without clothing and in need of daily food, and one of you says to them, "Go in peace, be warmed and be filled," and yet you do not give them what is necessary for [their] body, what use is that”?
1John 3:16-18 tells us, “We know love by this, that He laid down His life for us; and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren. But whoever has the world's goods, and beholds his brother in need and closes his heart against him, how does the love of God abide in him? Little children, let us not love with word or with tongue, but in deed and truth”.
We are to have hearts of humility and thankfulness when kindness is shown towards us, understanding we are undeserving of such mercy. We are reminded to show kindness and grace towards others when we see a brother or sister in need. Learning to say thank you and learning to have eyes and actions that reach out to others is opposite of the world’s picture of service towards one another. Where do we stand – in the world or in the Word?
Moving on to verse 11 in Chapter Two of Ruth, think carefully for a moment and ask yourself these questions - What is your reputation? What characteristics would be used by others to describe you?
Ruth 2:11 And Boaz answered and said to her, "All that you have done for your mother-in-law after the death of your husband has been fully reported to me, and how you left your father and your mother and the land of your birth, and came to a people that you did not previously know.
When Ruth questioned his kindness to her, Boaz proceeded to recall what had been relayed to him about her actions. The words ‘fully reported’ mean what he had heard stood out to him as her circumstances were explained. Rewind a bit and recall that Ruth had also lost her husband just as Naomi did. What hasn’t been recorded for us is her lamenting over her own situation. She must have experienced grief yet it doesn’t seem to be her focus. Instead, her example was to care for her mother-in-law who had lost her husband and both her sons. Ruth relinquished any possible support or acceptance she may have received from staying in her home town, and she followed Naomi into a foreign land and culture and professed faith in the God of the Jewish nation. Ruth heard God’s call and responded by leaving all behind.
Luke 14:27, 33 "Whoever does not carry his own cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple. "So therefore, no one of you can be My disciple who does not give up all his own possessions.
Matthew 16:24 Then Jesus said to His disciples, "If anyone wishes to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.
Luke 9:23 And He was saying to [them] all, "If anyone wishes to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.
God had allowed Ruth to understand the necessity of trusting in Him alone for all things. This shouldn’t prompt you to walk away from your home, job, family and all that is part of your immediate life. However, consider what comes first in your life? If you were to lose any of the persons or things familiar to you, would you be able to continue with a heart of trust and praise for God? Unfortunately, people often place their purpose in everything except the one constant we have – Jesus. Then, when loss knocks at the door, meaning and security and happiness dissipate and life’s focus is lost also. God knows us well and commands us to place Him at the forefront of our existence. Because of Jesus, we live. All lasting joy is found in Him alone. We praise God for the moments of laughter, and sweet memories and relationships and numerous blessings poured on our lives yet we must be prepared and willing to hold all things loosely. Only then can we fully grasp what is truly important. And only then will we learn to truly enjoy God’s blessings. Consider this – if we are always busy trying to hang on to something or control a situation, or we are in fear of losing a person or memory, how much are we able to relax and simply delight in the moments?
John 12:26 reads, “If anyone serves Me, let him follow Me; and where I am, there shall My servant also be; if anyone serves Me, the Father will honor him”.
Ruth’s actions preceded her reputation. In Ruth 1:16 we read of Ruth’s commitment and intentions, “But Ruth said, "Do not urge me to leave you [or] turn back from following you; for where you go, I will go, and where you lodge, I will lodge. Your people [shall be] my people, and your God, my God”.
So Boaz had been previously informed of Ruth’s pious behavior and desire to follow the God of Israel. He was impressed by what he had heard and this showed in his special kindness to her. This confirms the righteous character of Boaz also – that he was a man of God, esteeming those who follow God. Doing what God desires will always lead to blessing, perhaps not tangible in this life, but always to the reward of an eternal future in heaven. In following the God of the Jewish nation, Ruth had denounced the idols of Moab, the land of her birth and family. Any comfort or security she may have found in Moab was left behind. Her sincere choice to follow the one true God was evident in her actions. Her sole dependence was placed upon God for His provision and protection. Ruth’s actions caused Boaz to form a favorable impression of her faith and virtue.
Psalm 37:5 says, “Commit your way to the Lord, trust also in Him, and He will do it”. Also read Psalm 55:22 which says, “Cast your burden upon the Lord, and He will sustain you; He will never allow the righteous to be shaken”. Read the words of Jesus to Peter in Luke 18:28-30, “And Peter said, “Behold, we have left our own [homes,] and followed You.” And He said to them, “Truly I say to you, there is no one who has left house or wife or brothers or parents or children, for the sake of the kingdom of God, who shall not receive many times as much at this time and in the age to come, eternal life”.
Think back again to what Ruth left behind. In leaving Moab, it is possible she also left the possibility of being remarried. She was an outsider in Bethlehem and worse, she was from a land that was looked down upon because of its heathen gods. Leaving the town of her birth very well may have been like putting a seal on her fate as a single woman living in poverty forever. The essence here is Ruth did not just leave one possibility for another, she left all chances for a bright future for a plethora of unknowns. Each of us needs to come to Jesus willing to forsake all things that will vie for our attention. There is a daily, and even moment by moment, pushing away of the world from grabbing hold of us. Read Jesus’ words in Luke 14:33, “So therefore, no one of you can be My disciple who does not give up all his own possessions”.
We live fairly easy lives in comparison to the cultures of Biblical times. There is little true religious persecution in America. Most of us are not forced to choose between family and faith. And even in the small percentage of those who have had to make this choice, who would you rather please? Who do you fear most? Man or God? There are many verses that tell us to fear God above all else. Here is just one of them, "And to man He said, 'Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom; and to depart from evil is understanding”, Job 28:28. So then, what holds us back? What are you afraid to let go of in order to follow Jesus with your whole heart? We cannot slice salvation like a pie – a small piece for now, another later – it’s all or nothing.
In Ruth 2:12, Boaz gives Ruth a blessing. “May the Lord reward your work, and your wages be full from the Lord, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to seek refuge.”
What stood out the most as I first read this verse was the repetition of God’s name – the Lord …, the Lord, the God of Israel. Perhaps Boaz is reiterating to Ruth the true source of her blessings. The Lord rewards us; the Lord blesses us. It is not our hard work that accomplishes anything but the ability to work hard which comes from God. It is not our intelligence that garners our understanding but the intelligence that God gives us. We each need to be reminded where glory and honor is due, not at the hands of men but in God’s care for us. Boaz certainly knew Ruth’s background of idol worship and that she was a newer convert to the Jewish faith so maybe he was making the most of an opportunity to encourage Ruth to continue to trust in God, the one true God of Israel.
When people are thankful towards you for serving them, how do you respond? This is a great chance to speak of God’s blessings and care for His children. Do we turn praise towards God or accept it for ourselves? What is your motivation in serving? Remember the warning given in Mathew 6:1, “Beware of practicing your righteousness before men to be noticed by them; otherwise you have no reward with your Father who is in heaven”. Boaz refers to God as the Lord Jehovah and the God of Israel – the eternal Lord, and judge and ruler of the Jewish people. There was no mistake who Boaz worshiped and served.
Consider how exciting it is to watch someone learn to trust God. Imagine the blessing of knowing Ruth’s background and seeing her confidently move forward in her faith. God has purposed each step Ruth has taken and will continue to do so as she takes refuge in Him. Boaz knows this and Ruth must be marveling at God’s provision towards her and Naomi. As you take a moment to rewind circumstances in your own life, are you able to see the protection of the God who loves you? Do you find peace and security in His hands? Ruth 2:12 says, “the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to seek refuge”. These words remind us that God is our refuge. He is the one we should flee to for protection. He is the one who offers true hope. Is your trust in Him alone? Where do you go for protection?
Psalm 17:8 Keep me as the apple of the eye; Hide me in the shadow of Thy wings,
Psalm 36:7 How precious is Thy lovingkindness, O God! And the children of men take refuge in the shadow of Thy wings.
Ps 57:1 (For the choir director; [set to] Al-tashheth. A Mikhtam of David, when he fled) (from Saul, in the cave.) Be gracious to me, O God, be gracious to me, for my soul takes refuge in Thee; And in the shadow of Thy wings I will take refuge, until destruction passes by.
Ps 63:7 For Thou hast been my help, And in the shadow of Thy wings I sing for joy.
God will fully supply our needs as we rely upon Him. Boaz’ response to Ruth gives us further evidence of her true conversion to Naomi’s God because her faith is seen in her actions. Hebrews 11:6 says, “And without faith it is impossible to please [Him], for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and [that] He is a rewarder of those who seek Him”.
God has always been faithful. He does not change. Faithfulness is part of His character. His children can expect His protection and power to shine forth in their lives, even through testing, whether it be in the daily tasks of life or in significant tragedy.
The faithfulness of God is part of His character. 1 Corinthians 1:9 reads, “God is faithful, through whom you were called into fellowship with His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.” 1 Thessalonians 5:24 also says, “Faithful is He who calls you, and He also will bring it to pass.” God has a purpose for each of His children and He will fulfill His plan for you. This is an incredible promise for each of us to take into the New Year!
In Isaiah chapter 43, God gives Israel His promise to protect them even while they were unfaithful to God. They are disciplined several times for their actions against God, yet God’s love remains true. He reminds them in Isaiah 43:1 that they are still able to rely upon his protection, “But now, thus says the Lord, your Creator, O Jacob, and He who formed you, O Israel, ‘Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name; you are Mine!”
We have not witnessed the parting of a sea, but every moment God’s hand and direction is guiding our lives – if we open our eyes to see. How often have you been pleasantly surprised as you have noticed God’s work in your life? All successes, no matter how small or large, are because of His work and His faithfulness.
Picture this scene. A major shopping warehouse parking lot. Crowded to an all-time high, seemingly ten cars for every one space available. You drive your car, scoping out people loading their trunks, turn your blinker on, and patiently wait for someone to back out. Just as you begin to turn into the spot you have waited for, a car comes from the opposite direction and whizzes ahead of you taking the space. What’s your reaction? Then, you drive down the next row of parking and come upon the back-up lights of a truck. Score! Your blinker is activated and you wait for this vehicle to back out so you can finally park. Just as you are readying to pull into the now empty space, you see headlights coming through from the opposite side. It is getting a bit more difficult to maintain composure and think nice thoughts…prayer is necessary and constant
Okay. Drive down the next isle, eyes peeled for any sign of an opening parking space. You spot one ahead. Once again, the blinker is switched on as you wait for a car to back out so you can stop playing this game which is no longer fun. The car pulls out and, no kidding, someone comes from the opposite direction and quickly pulls into the exact place you were patiently waiting for. To add insult to injury, the car has a very large sticker on it proclaiming Christ as Lord. You cringe, you feel the fight against the natural man inside of you. But, still able to maintain a low blood pressure internally all because of God’s work pummeling the flesh, you drive around one more time and low and behold the place behind the truck that had pulled through in front of you several minutes ago is still available. Yes! You pull in the parking place and notice two carts at the corner in front of the driver’s side. No problem, there is plenty of room in your small car to park and not have the carts be a problem. Whew, made it and no injuries have occurred. Even your thoughts have been taken captive by Truth. However you are already exhausted. Take a deep breath and let’s get this done. Ignition is turned off and you proceed to exit the car.
Then, the person who had been sitting in the truck which was now parked in front of you gets out of their vehicle, walks to the driver side of your car, pulls the carts half way down the space and you think, that’s nice they are going to remove the carts. But, instead of removing the carts, they loosen one from the other, leave the second six inches from your driver door blocking it and walk away! In each of these situations the test is real. I am weak but God remains faithful to my desire to respond correctly. What I want to do and how I want to feel is checked by His work in my life. I am so very aware of a battle.
It doesn’t end here. Now I am finally in line to return a few items. This is a long line, out the door, in the biting cold, slow as molasses kind of line. It is okay. I stand there with my cart and items, wishing I had worn a jacket, and the woman in front of me tells me I need each item tagged first which is a different line. Smile, she offers to stand with my cart as I go get my two items stickered. Thank you Lord for others’ show of kindness. I return and the line has grown increasingly long in that short time. Then from out of nowhere someone appears in front of me who was not previously in line. Oh well, this is that kind of day. A pleasant conversation between us helps to pass some time and quell my frustration. I then notice an individual walking hurriedly from the parking lot, and they gracefully slip right in front of me without saying a word. I figure at this rate I’ll never get to the register. But, I am kept in check by something much bigger than myself – God’s work in my flesh. A voice in my head is repeating, ‘be careful of your words and actions’.
So, at this point I am praising God for these small tests and His faithful love, really trying to concentrate on the things that truly matter. But we still are not done! The person I had been having a conversation with (and who cut in line from the left earlier) now notices the person who had cut in from the right. She tells this individual that they belong in the back of the line. She is ignored. The person then loudly asks those in front of her to verify that someone cut in the line and should go to the back. She looks at me and tries to include me in pointing out this wrongdoing. For a split moment there is tension building among several people as she asks specifically for my response. Oh boy, I am now thinking that staying home would have been a better plan for this morning. But, God is faithful in His work in His children’s lives. Seriously, I do not feel very saintly. My flesh at this point would feel good about swinging my purse around and knocking some people out. But, I have never been involved in a brawl and do not desire to make the newspaper headlines. Instead I hear these words coming from my mouth for those around me to hear as I address the situation, “This is a good opportunity to show God’s grace”. I’m thinking I personally needed to be reminded of what was truly important. Thank you Lord for your work in this sinner’s life, for your testing and opportunity to focus on what matters – You, Your faithfulness, Your gift, Your glory in a fallen world. Situation avoided, everyone becomes silent.
Isaiah 43:2 is God’s promise to His children, “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they will not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched, or will the flame burn you”. God will protect His children, sin does not need to take hold. His faithfulness and His majesty are greater. His glory is our story. It is all about Him.
Isaiah 43:10-11 says, “You are My witnesses,” declares the Lord. “And My servant whom I have chosen, in order that you may know and believe Me, and understand that I am He. Before Me there was no God formed, and there will be none after Me.” “I, even I, am the Lord; and there is no savior besides Me”.
As the New Year approaches we are able to look forward to God’s care and faithfulness. His promises are real and there is hope in Him for the future.
Isaiah 34:18 tells us, “Do not call to mind the former things, or ponder things of the past. Behold, I will do something new, now it will spring forth; will you not be aware of it? I will even make a roadway in the wilderness, rivers in the desert”.
God has always been faithful. He does not change. Faithfulness is part of His character. His children can expect His protection and power to shine forth in their lives, even through testing, whether it be in the daily tasks of life or in significant tragedy. God’s grace and mercy are new every morning.
Lamentations 3:22-23 reads, “The LORD'S lovingkindnesses indeed never cease, for His compassions never fail. [They] are new every morning; great is Thy faithfulness.
Because of God’s faithfulness in His children’s lives, there is great hope in the New Year to shine God’s glory! Focus Heavenward with me, Sharyn.
The gift of Jesus birth is unwrapped and rediscovered daily as God’s spoken word gives encouragement and direction.
Luke 2:11 “for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord”. December 25th is our cultural celebration of Christ’s birth. That was two days ago. Now what? For some, it is the end of weeks of preparation to receive family and friends and touch base with those not seen for a while. After the first of the year, decorations will be packed away for next year and life and schedules will return to ‘normal’. The reason for celebration will be packed away also.
For others, the celebration will continue throughout the coming New Year, and in fact, Jesus’ birth will be remembered on a daily basis as hearts of gratitude for this gift received, live in worship to Him. Celebrating the birth of our Savior and Lord is a powerful reminder of the reason Jesus was born. Luke 2:14 says, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased.”
All praise and worship goes to God for giving us His Son and paying the penalty for our sin through His death. But it doesn’t end there. Just as packing up the Christmas decorations doesn’t end our worship of Jesus, the death of Jesus isn’t the end of the gift given to those who believe in Him. It keeps going, Christ’s resurrection from the dead means He is alive and continues to save those who call upon His name. God’s peace afforded through hope in Christ sustains His children.
The gift of Jesus birth is unwrapped and rediscovered daily as God’s spoken word gives encouragement and direction. God is supreme, the highest in all the heavens. Peace – prosperity in Him, quietness and rest in an unsettled world – is a gift to those who trust in Jesus as their Savior. Good will – delight and purpose found in Him – gives us a heavenward focus as we navigate this earth.
John 3:16 "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life.
Romans 5:1-2 Therefore having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we exult in hope of the glory of God.
Isaiah 57:19 “I create the fruit of the lips; peace, peace to him that is far off, and to him that is near, saith the LORD; and I will heal him”. (KJV)
My prayer is to celebrate Jesus each day, and each moment I have breath; that the season of Christmas is alive all year as Christ’s birth is proclaimed as the greatest gift to mankind. May we live in His peace and good will as we keep this season in our hearts year round.
Hebrews 13:15 Through Him then, let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that give thanks to His name.
Consider Christmas – the most significant birthday ever recorded. Christmas is the grand celebration of our Savior’s birth, Christ the Lord.
Luke 2:11 for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.
What is Christmas, why do we celebrate? Towards the middle of October, decorations begin to pop up in the stores for Christmas. At the end of this same month, tree lots appear on intersection corners. Christmas is a day celebrated throughout our country in a majority of homes. It is as much a cultural tradition as it is a religious celebration. Ask others what this time of year is about and you will receive a variety of answers. Santa Claus, snowmen and reindeer, food, family, and friends. Amidst the presents and parties, lights, trees, and decorations, some people will focus on the birth of Jesus.
At this special time of year, Christmas carols and holiday music abound everywhere. Interesting to note – and perhaps why I personally get really excited about this holiday is the acceptance of recognizing and talking about God and His Son, Jesus Christ. People seem more open to the Truth at this time of year. The opportunities to share the Gospel abound as many of our cultural traditions point to the Christ child. Turn on almost any Christmas music station and carols of old will be playing. Listen carefully to the words and recognize that truth is shared as if they are hymns. Individuals everywhere sing of the glory of Jesus’ birth at Christmas time, even if truth has not been accepted, some oblivious to the words they are expressing in a familiar tune.
In the Christian household, the center of Christmas is the celebration of a birthday – the birth of Jesus Christ. Consider the planning of a milestone birthday for an individual. Perhaps it is the very first birthday of a child or the birthday that puts a child in the category of ‘two digits’, or becoming a teenager. Maybe it’s the fiftieth birthday commonly known as ‘over-the-hill’. And for some, we may even be around to celebrate our sixties, seventies, eighties and beyond.
Most everyone has either had a significant birthday party or has been to one. A lot of effort goes into the planning and preparation. There is food to make, decorations to put up, presents to purchase and usually a cake to bake. Party hats, balloons and banners are often part of the celebration.
Consider Christmas – the most significant birthday ever recorded. Christmas is the grand celebration of our Savior’s birth, Christ the Lord. What happened when Jesus Christ was born is the world was given a gift. It is not that we brought something to Him, God gave His Son to us. We give gifts because we care about someone. God gave Jesus because He loves you. Have you accepted the gift He offers? It is free to receive yet was purchased with a great cost. Christ was born to die for the sin of all mankind. God’s love is so great that He gave us His Son as the only acceptable and perfect sacrifice that would pay the price of man’s transgression.
I pray your Christmas is a celebration of the birth of Jesus. Not only the birth but the gift of life we have in Him. He was born to die, He willingly suffered for man even while He was innocent, He alone was able to pay the price we owe for our sin. Jesus was crucified, died, was buried and arose from the grave in His victory over sin’s power. All because of God’s love for you. The greatest gift we can give to those we care about is the Truth of Christmas.
Luke 2:10-11 And the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of a great joy which shall be for all the people; for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.
Good news – the gospel: Jesus’ birth, death, resurrection; God’s forgiveness, our atonement and the promise of a glorious future in heaven
Great joy – exceeding gladness
All people – offered to everyone everywhere
A Savior – our Deliverer
Christ – the anointed, the Messiah
The Lord – supreme in authority, Master, God
This is Christmas. Celebrate the Truth!
Like a Sherlock Holmes mystery, you will be drawn into searching with me for the events, motivations and their order to reconstruct what reasonably happened when Christ was born.
This is exciting – check it out! Rick’s book release today through barnesandnoble.com. Order now for delivery by Christmas! A book signing is scheduled for January 12, 2020 at the Palmdale store.
His Star in His Heavens: A reasonable explanation for the Star of Bethlehem
According to Merriam Webster synonyms for reasonable are analytical, coherent, consequent, good, logical, rational, sensible, sound, valid, well-founded, well-grounded. This book is more than a search for possible candidates, it is a search for the one best object that will most reasonably explain what the Bible says about the Star and the Messiah’s Birth. Our approach is like determining the best explanation of a crime given the evidence collected. Only when every object collected from the scene and every person’s causes and effects are identified and are also reasonable, can the investigation be closed as being a reasonable scenario. Or think about how about how the common jigsaw puzzle is assembled. When all the pieces fit in their specific locations, the puzzle has the intended order; it looks like the picture on the box. No one would conclude that the puzzle is finished or accurate if pieces were missing or left over. Each piece has a reason where it fits in the whole puzzle. Cause and effect reasoning using the color, shape and size of each puzzle piece is a powerful tool in reconstructing the complete account of all the steps in assembling the puzzle. Sir Francis Bacon, author of the scientific method said “complete knowledge is knowledge by causes”. Like a Sherlock Holmes mystery, you will be drawn into searching with me for the events, motivations and their order to reconstruct what reasonably happened when Christ was born. I am certain that you will be amazed, as I was, when the explanation is presented. Our reasonable conclusion will make the account in Matthew chapter two come alive with thoughts you never considered. I guarantee it! We will conclude that the Star was a natural object with a supernatural origin. So have a seat at my table where puzzle pieces are heaped into a pile and let’s start putting them together. I will show you how far I have gotten, working on it off and on, over the past 50 years. Is the explanation presented in this book the true one? I will let you decide. I am convinced that it is reasonable. Richard Balogh
Richard is a retired science professor and
Christian Club Advisor from Antelope Valley
College , Lancaster, California. This book
is the first in the series Highlighting Science
in the Scriptures.
You are fully and forever accepted in Christ. The KJV of Ephesians 1:6 reads, “To the praise of the glory of His grace, wherein He hath made us accepted in the beloved”. You are loved, and you belong, if Jesus is your Lord and Savior.
Belonging. Consider the number of groups available for individuals. Groups are usually categorized by mutual interests, likes and even dislikes. The need to belong starts early in childhood - in the classroom, on the playground and even in the family when figuring out how you fit it with your siblings or parents. Vying for attention is part of wanting to belong.
We all have a need to feel a part of something. So what happens when you realize you just don’t really fit in? When you feel like perhaps you are tolerated but not really accepted? If you are honest, you have probably wanted to be part of a certain mixture of people, offered your abilities or interests and eventually realized you were not a desired member. This happens to most of us at one time or another. Unless we live in a world of oblivion, we get hurt and we feel unwanted, like no one truly cares.
Perhaps you were once part of a group you enjoyed or felt you had something to offer, and now you recognize you have been left out of the loop, sort of received a notice of cancellation from your services. The opposite of belonging is rejection and it is hard to accept. Unfortunately, this happens frequently in the world, within relationships, the workforce, and even in Christian fellowships. Why? Because we are human and sinful. As much as you may have experienced rejection, you have also probably caused others the pain of feeling left out also.
In Christ you are fully accepted, absolutely wanted, and expected to use your abilities. You are even given the responsibility to serve with the strengths God has blessed you with. This is where each of us truly belongs!
It gets better! God chose you to be His child. You didn’t go knocking on His door, He called you! Read Ephesians 1:4, “… He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before Him …” To be chosen means you were selected. Memories of standing in a horizontal line waiting to be picked as part of a team during recess, and the feeling of relief when your name was called is a pressure most can recall. There is no waiting and wondering with Christ. He desires you to part of His family.
You are fully and forever accepted in Christ. The KJV of Ephesians 1:6 reads, “To the praise of the glory of His grace, wherein He hath made us accepted in the beloved”. You are loved, and you belong, if Jesus is your Lord and Savior. You will never be ousted from being a child of God. His Spirit in you is a constant reminder of your value in Christ. Galatians 4:6 says, “And because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, crying, "Abba! Father!” Romans 8:16 tells us, “The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God”.
You belong. God has grabbed your attention – have you answered Him? You are part of God’s family and you fit in just as He intended. He has blessed you with abilities and interests to be used for His glory. Find your value in Christ, He died for you because God wants you to belong to His family. I pray you are encouraged today.
Focus Heavenward, Sharyn.
But the genuine heart of thankfulness lies in understanding – agreeing with who God is, realizing what He has done and accepting what He offers.
Gratitude: A feeling of thankfulness and appreciation.
Appreciation: Understanding of the nature, meaning, quality or magnitude of something.
Truly understanding who God is, what He has done and what it means, leads to a heart of gratitude. It is not the house we live in, the job we may have, our good health, or even our family, or friends that evoke the true mindset of a thankful heart. Albeit, these are all amazing and undeserved blessings and most of us could come up with a very long list.
But the genuine heart of thankfulness lies in understanding – agreeing with who God is, realizing what He has done and accepting what He offers.
Who is God? He alone is the Most High over all the earth (Psalm 83:18). His name is power and authority, Jehovah – the self-Existent and Eternal Lord. God is Supreme, elevated over the entire world. God’s name is to be honored and revered; He is glorious and awesome (Deuteronomy 29:58). God is Creator (Genesis 1:1) and therefore owner and ruler of all mankind, every living and non-living thing, the known and unknown universe, all of what we see and do not see. God is righteous and He is perfectly just (Ezekiel 9:15).
This is God – Do you understand and agree?
What did God do? God redeemed mankind from the penalty of sin (Proverbs 14:12). He is our salvation (John 10:9). In His name alone we have been ransomed (Acts 4:12). Through His grace we are delivered from sin (Matthew 1:21; Acts 15:11). God gave us His Son, Jesus Christ (Matthew 16:16; Luke 2:11). Jesus suffered and died for man even while man is so undeserving. Acts 2:36 says, “Therefore let all the house of Israel know for certain that God has made Him both Lord and Christ – this Jesus whom you crucified”. God acted on our behalf because of His great love for us. Ephesians 1:7-8 says, “In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace, which He lavished upon us, in all wisdom and insight”.
This is what God did – Do you understand? Are you aware of His immeasurable sacrifice and gift to mankind?
Have you accepted what God offers to you?
“And you were dead in your trespasses and sins”. “But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved)”. “In order that in the ages to come He might show the surpassing riches of His grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus” (Ephesians 2:1; 4-5; 7).
We are sinful but because of God’s love we have been given a way to avoid the penalty of sin we owe which is death, eternal separation from God. The blessings of God are poured upon His children as they bow before Him. Accepting Christ as Lord and Savior opens the door to heaven. Ephesians 2:8-9 says, “For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, [it is] the gift of God; not as a result of works, that no one should boast”.
We are unable to earn the gift God offers to us through His Son. We can only bow before Him and humbly accept His offer of grace.
A genuine heart of thankfulness lies in understanding – agreeing with who God is, realizing what He has done and accepting what He offers. Have you accepted the greatest gift offered to mankind? If so, Thanksgiving will mean so much more than external blessings. Appreciation for the magnitude of who God is and what God has done will fill your heart. This is genuine gratitude and Thanksgiving.
1
Psalm 136: 13-15
The Red Sea is a seawater inlet of the Indian Ocean. It lies between Africa and Asia. It is more than 1,300 miles long and its widest point is 220.6 miles. The average depth of the Red sea is over 1,500 feet with a deep trough running through the center. This information is taken from Wikipedia which also states that approximately 25% of this body of water is considered shallow, being under 164 feet deep.
Ps 136:13-15 To Him who divided the Red Sea asunder, For His lovingkindness is everlasting, 14 And made Israel pass through the midst of it, For His lovingkindness is everlasting; 15 But He overthrew Pharaoh and his army in the Red Sea, For His lovingkindness is everlasting.
In these verses we continue to see the power and protection of God towards His children.
Ex 14:21-22 Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea; and the LORD swept the sea back by a strong east wind all night and turned the sea into dry land, so the waters were divided. 22 The sons of Israel went through the midst of the sea on the dry land, and the waters were like a wall to them on their right hand and on their left.
Ps 78:13 He divided the sea and caused them to pass through, And He made the waters stand up like a heap.
We see God’s power in directing the water. Can anyone you know cause a body of water to part, making a pathway to cross over and forming a wall of water on each side? Consider the scene. The children of Israel, finally being let go under Pharaoh’s rule in Egypt, take off into the desert, basically running for their life. Pharaoh’s army begins the chase and the Israelites come to an impasse – the Red Sea. They were tired, they were scared and now it seemed there was no way to continue their exit.
We see God’s compassion as He performs a miracle causing the deep waters to part. God not only provided a way of escape but, after all the Israelites had crossed, God then caused the waters to flow once again engulfing the entire Egyptian Army.
Read Spurgeon’s comments on this text, “Men deny miracles; but, granted that there is a God, they become easy of belief. Since it requires me to be an atheist that I may logically reject miracles, I prefer the far smaller difficulty of believing in the infinite power of God. He who causes the waters of the sea ordinarily to remain as one mass can with equal readiness divide them”. (Treasury of David)
God also gives His children the faith to walk through difficulties. Can you imagine stepping onto a path surrounded by high walls of water? The path set out for the Israelites was unknown. They were to walk down into the deep center of the great sea and then trek up again as they crossed to the other side. While they were stepping forward in faith, God kept a dark cloud between them and the Egyptian army.
In Christ, we can do whatever He deems necessary for His glory. Our God is great. Our faith needs to be great. We can step forward without fear in the paths set out before us. What we might see as an obstacle, God will use for His glory.
Psalm 46:1 God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.
Isaiah 41:10 ‘Do not fear, for I am with you; do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.'
Psalm 78:53 He led them safely, so that they did not fear; but the sea engulfed their enemies.
“…and thus the Lord makes his people willing to pass through afflictions, he being with them; and able to bear them, he putting underneath the everlasting arms, even when in the valley of the shadow of death. He carries them safely through them, so that they are not hurt by them; the waters do not overflow them, nor the flames kindle upon them; nor are any suffered to be lost: but all come safe to land.” --John Gill.
When we think of defeating an army, our mind conjures up pictures of a great battle and loss of life on both sides. Battles in the world begin with no guarantee of victory to either party. Strategy and strength and number and weaponry help to overcome the enemy.
Psalm 136:15 says God overthrew Pharaoh and his army, meaning He shook them off or tossed them up and down. Visualize a dog playing with a stuffed toy, shaking it from side to side as if it were nothing! God has no problem subduing His opposition.
Ex 15:4-5 "Pharaoh's chariots and his army He has cast into the sea; and the choicest of his officers are drowned in the Red Sea. 5 "The deeps cover them; they went down into the depths like a stone.
Ex 15:10 "You blew with Your wind, the sea covered them; they sank like lead in the mighty waters.
There is never a debate if God will win. Victory is easy for Him. In this specific reminder of His care, not one Israeli life was lost and the entire Egyptian army was eradicated. This is the God I trust. Is this the God you know? Have you placed your complete trust in the one true God of the Bible? Would you, by faith, follow Him through a path that was unknown and made no sense in your human understanding?
Again, each of these three verses ends with the words, “For His lovingkindness is everlasting”. God does shower His mercy upon those who love Him but He is also great in His judgement against those who reject Him.
In Psalm 136:13-15, God’s power is seen in His command over the Red Sea; God’s compassion is seen in giving the Israelites faith and courage to move towards something inexplicable; and His judgement is seen as He renders His sentence over the wicked. Although this account took place in mid-15th century B.C., we see God’s amazing attributes all around us today, working in our lives and the lives of others.
God commands all nature; compassion from God towards sinners is constant; and He will judge sin in complete righteousness. God is all-powerful and His protection is over those who follow Him. He will give to us the faith we need to step forward on the path He leads. Praise His Name!
We have an inexhaustible source of peace, strength, protection and compassion in God.
Trust – to move fast for refuge, to be confident or sure
Forever – eternity, perpetually, without end
The Lord – Jehovah, the self-Existent or Eternal
Everlasting – time out of mind, eternity, continuance
Rock – a refuge, strength
Where is your trust? Notice the word in. Only two letters and seemingly insignificant yet without our trust being in the Lord, failure is eminent. All other sources of our confidence will be unsuccessful. Where does your strength come from? Where do you turn for safety? In God alone we find refuge.
Deuteronomy 32:4 "The Rock! His work is perfect, for all His ways are just; A God of faithfulness and without injustice, righteous and upright is He.
Isaiah 12:2 "Behold, God is my salvation, I will trust and not be afraid; for the LORD GOD is my strength and song, And He has become my salvation."
God is unchanging in His love and power at all times and in all circumstances.
Matthew Poole’s Commentary says God is “a sure refuge to all those that trust in Him, through all generation; therefore you may safely trust in Him, and that forever”.
“Happy are those who are protected and kept in peace by their Omnipotent God. Is there one in our house who does not trust in the Lord? Let us pray that all our minds may be stayed on God”. Spurgeon Devotional Commentary
We have an inexhaustible source of peace, strength, protection and compassion in God.
Psalm 55:22 Cast your burden upon the LORD, and He will sustain you; He will never allow the righteous to be shaken.
Psalm 62:8 Trust in Him at all times, O people; Pour out your heart before Him; God is a refuge for us. Selah.
I pray you place your trust in God, not yourself nor any other person or thing. Have confidence in His care for you. Seek His shelter and guidance in all things and He will sustain you for His glory.
Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.
Have a beautiful day as you Focus Heavenward.
Consider the opposite reaction of having patience with others. Impatience shows itself in having a short-temper, often being critical of another and having an attitude of tolerating an individual rather than trying to encourage them.
Developing patience with circumstances recognizes God is in control, working all things for our good and the good of others as we are reminded in Romans 8:28, which says, “And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to [His] purpose”. We do not call the shots! It is not our screenplay to write, it is God’s work to direct.
Learning to have patience with self, first recognizes our sinful nature then realizes the need to fight against worldly desires and thinking. We should not be surprised that we mess up! We are in need of a Savior. We are entirely dependent on Jesus’ sacrifice for our eternal redemption, and His power to live in the present according to His will. It is good to be impatient with sin that continues to hold us, yet if we live in the guilt of recounting our many failures, we fail to understand who we are. We are to be patient with our weakness as God leads us through circumstances that grow our dependence on Him. We will not be perfect until we are fully sanctified in heaven. If you have accepted Christ as Lord and Master of your life, He has chosen you. Ask for forgiveness, claim His forgiveness, and move forward to be used by Him. I love the encouraging words in Hebrews 12:1, “Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance, and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us”.
Read the truths in 1 John 1:6-9, “If we say that we have fellowship with Him and [yet] walk in the darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth; but if we walk in the light as He Himself is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from all sin. If we say that we have no sin, we are deceiving ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness”.
Having patience with others is perhaps the most obvious struggle for the majority of us. We are inherently proud. Even if you don’t think you are proud, the Bible will tell you otherwise. Proverbs 14:12 speaks of the result of our pride, “There is a way [which seems] right to a man, but its end is the way of death”.
So how do we develop the patience we are told to have for others?
We look at the perfect example of Jesus. Even when He was falsely accused, he did not fight to share His opinion (Isaiah 53:7; Acts 8:32; Matthew 27:14). When I attempt to consider the patience Jesus constantly extends towards me, it is impossible to comprehend. Who am I then, to show any amount of impatience towards others?
Patience is to be exercised toward all those around us. 1 Thessalonians 5:14 says, “And we urge you, brethren admonish the unruly, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with all men”. This patience spoken of is longsuffering. This is not a one-time thing, like saying ‘I was patient’. It is continued, enduring patience.
Consider the opposite reaction of having patience with others. Impatience shows itself in having a short-temper, often being critical of another and having an attitude of tolerating an individual rather than trying to encourage them.
We must address pride. Ecclesiastes 7:8 tells us that being patient in spirit is better than being proud in spirit. Pride, or the feeling of self-worth, satisfaction and self-elevation is not a character any of us wishes to be attached to our name. Yet it shows itself in many discreet ways. Do you know the best way to do something, or the only way? Are you willing to adapt your thinking to meet another (unless it is against God). Do you quickly take issue with those things are neither here or there? These thoughts lead to impatience with others. Can you accept personal criticism? Are you quick to defend yourself? Do you use words that cause another to feel small? Are your interests more important than the concerns of others? Are others constantly not quick enough for you, or exact enough or performing to your liking? All of these questions address a heart that is holding itself above others.
In order to grow in our patience with others, we need to keep ourselves off the throne and be certain God is the One we live for. It is not about us, it is all about Him. The questions above may be difficult to sincerely address but our mindset needs to be focused on our own deficiency and need of Christ if we are to hold others above ourselves, encouraging one another with His love.
I often use this prayer in Colossians –
“…We have not ceased to pray for you and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so that you may walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please [Him] in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God, strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might, for the attaining of all steadfastness and patience; joyously giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified us to share in the inheritance of the saints in light” (Colossians 1:9-12).
Be encouraged as you grow in patience towards all men. Seek to squash pride in your heart and solicit patience. “And let endurance have [its] perfect result, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing” (James 1:4).
Focus heavenward with me, Sharyn.
“With a fatherly kindness God watches over and directs the concerns of the poorest, most obscure, and defenseless of his people, and directs them in such a manner as to promote their highest good”
Do you see the hand of God in your life? The word happenstance refers to an event that might have been arranged although it was really accidental. It is closely related to the idea of something being a coincidence. I don’t believe anything is a coincidence since the Bible says God has purposed everything according to His will. He is in control of all things, knows all things and nothing is beyond God’s scrutiny and dominion. Read Proverbs 21:1, “The king’s heart is [like] channels of water in the hand of the LORD; He turns it wherever He wishes”. God’s providence is quite the opposite of accidental. It is an event or circumstance that may look like coincidence but has been arranged all along by Him. It is God’s care exercised for His creation.
I am studying the book of Ruth at this moment. Ruth 2:3, turned my eyes toward thinking upon God’s divine direction in my life. As I look back I am truly amazed and thankful at the way each segment has been placed just so. Even the negative – or what I thought was negative – has been purposely used by God to show me Himself and to grow me in trust and understanding. My heart is full of praise and adoration for the One true God, our Lord, Jesus Christ.
Ruth 2:3 reads, “So she departed and went and gleaned in the field after the reapers; and she happened to come to the portion of the field belonging to Boaz, who was of the family of Elimelech”.
God’s hand of care is written all over this! Consider how blessed we are to have this encouraging picture of God working in the lives of those whom He has called. Even in dire circumstances which are unforeseen, God has an incredible plan.
Our text says Ruth happened upon a field belonging to Boaz. This word ‘happened’ means something met with an accident or fortune, something befallen or by chance. Was this an accident or providence? Family Bible Notes makes this comment, “With a fatherly kindness God watches over and directs the concerns of the poorest, most obscure, and defenseless of his people, and directs them in such a manner as to promote their highest good”. Matthew Poole’s Commentary says, “It was indeed a chance in reference to second causes, but ordered and designed by God’s providence”. God uses the circumstances in our lives to bring Himself glory.
If you are God’s child, you will be able to see His hand directing your life in all areas. Look back at seemingly unimportant events or decisions and praise God for how He has turned them for your blessing. Be excited for His guidance and direction as He leads you on a path that will bring growth in your life and glory to Himself.
Focus Heavenward, Sharyn.
Our God spoke the heavens into place and set the earth on its axis.
There are no appropriate words to describe the handiwork of God’s creation! His awesome wonder is above us, around us and even below us! Carlsbad Caverns is as deep as a seventeen story building and has hours of trails. The Big Room alone measures over 4,000 feet long, is more than 600 feet wide, 255 feet high, and takes approximately ninety minutes to walk around – not counting stopping to take photos. At each turn, words become increasingly evasive in trying to explain the grandeur before your eyes. What you see is evidence of a brilliant Creator! Our God spoke the heavens into place and set the earth on its axis. When I concentrate on His greatness and goodness, my concerns and problems pale in comparison. I am so incredibly thankful for God’s gift of love and peace found in Him alone. Focus Heavenward with me.
Our faith is not a one-time, say the right words and own a life insurance policy, act of acknowledgment. When God chooses to transform a heart to understand who He is and what He has done, it is permanent and it is complete. There is no turning away lest we desire His hand of discipline. God will use us or He will remove us, but He will never lose us.
Ruth 1:14 ended with a tearful good-bye. Orpah returned to Moab and Ruth chose to remain with Naomi. Yet Naomi is not finished trying to dissuade Ruth from accompanying her to Bethlehem.
Before we move on, let’s address the thought of sticking with those we know and love even when times prove to be difficult or uncertain. Do we love one another enough to forsake what is certain and comfortable? Do we love God enough to leave behind the pulls of the world for the promises of a future with Him?
Matthew 10:37 "He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me; and he who loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me.
Matthew 19:21-22 Jesus said to him, "If you wish to be complete, go and sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me." 22 But when the young man heard this statement, he went away grieving; for he was one who owned much property.
Luke 14:26 "If anyone comes to Me, and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life, he cannot be My disciple.
In 2 Timothy 4, towards the end of Timothy’s death, he speaks of those who had deserted him as the pull of the world became stronger than the message of the gospel (2 Timothy 4:10; 16).
Ruth’s insisting on remaining with Naomi testifies to the relationship that has formed between them. It also gives us insight to the strong pull of Naomi’s example of faith and trust in the God of Israel toward Ruth. Orpah most likely returned to the gods of Moab when she went back to her family. Ruth’s heart is changing however. She is being drawn away from the idolatry taught her and into the truth of Naomi’s God.
Naomi continues to make certain that Ruth has a realistic appreciation of the hardship ahead as she once again offers her a way out to return to her own people.
Ruth 1:15 Then she said, "Behold, your sister-in-law has gone back to her people and her gods; return after your sister-in-law."
This is a true test of Ruth’s conversion. No matter the unknown’s ahead, if she has truly been called by God she will choose to follow Him. For Ruth, that would mean leaving the teaching and culture of Moab behind, along with her relatives, and continuing on with Naomi to Bethlehem. There will be no turning back from her decision. Read Joshua 24:15, “If it is disagreeable in your sight to serve the LORD, choose for yourselves today whom you will serve: whether the gods which your fathers served which were beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you are living; but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD."
Will Ruth remain steadfast in her decision to know the God of Israel? The next verses, Ruth 1:16-17, give us the answer.
Ruth 1:16-17 But Ruth said, "Do not urge me to leave you or turn back from following you; for where you go, I will go, and where you lodge, I will lodge. Your people shall be my people, and your God, my God. 17 "Where you die, I will die, and there I will be buried. Thus may the LORD do to me, and worse, if anything but death parts you and me."
What can we say here but wow! A beautiful account of a heart called by God has been recorded for us. In essence we have Ruth saying, “Stop asking me to leave you and turn back to Moab. I will go with you to Bethlehem and will dwell with you and adopt your nation and your God as my own. I am committed to remain until death”.
Ruth answers all of Naomi’s concerns.
Ruth shows her desire to follow Naomi through whatever may befall them – “where you go, I will go”,
she explains her intent to remain permanently – “where you lodge, I will lodge”,
she expressly says she will adopt the nation of Israel as her own which has to mean she will follow the commands of the Jews – “Your people shall be my people”, and
She will purpose to follow the one true God – “your God, my God”.
Ruth is fully changed from being an idol worshipper to kneeling before the God of Israel! If we jump ahead to chapter two of Ruth, Boaz also determines through Ruth’s actions that she has placed her trust in the God of Israel.
Ruth 2:11-12 Boaz replied to her, "All that you have done for your mother-in-law after the death of your husband has been fully reported to me, and how you left your father and your mother and the land of your birth, and came to a people that you did not previously know. 12 "May the LORD reward your work, and your wages be full from the LORD, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to seek refuge."
The account above begs for us to carefully examine not only whom we follow, but to what extent. Have we laid aside all things pertaining to this world in order to follow Jesus? Even if our lives may prove to be more difficult and uncertain? Is our faith genuine – is it represented in our words, our choices, and our actions?
Hosea 13:4 Yet I have been the LORD your God Since the land of Egypt; and you were not to know any god except Me, for there is no savior besides Me. (emphasis added)
2Corinthians 6:16-18 Or what agreement has the temple of God with idols? For we are the temple of the living God; just as God said, "I WILL DWELL IN THEM AND WALK AMONG THEM; AND I WILL BE THEIR GOD, AND THEY SHALL BE MY PEOPLE. 17 "Therefore, COME OUT FROM THEIR MIDST AND BE SEPARATE," says the Lord. "AND DO NOT TOUCH WHAT IS UNCLEAN; And I will welcome you. 18 "And I will be a father to you, and you shall be sons and daughters to Me," Says the Lord Almighty.
Ruth continues with her answer to Naomi in verse seventeen as she states that only death will separate them: “Where you die, I will die”. The commitment Ruth is making is long term, she has no intention of changing her direction when poverty or difficult circumstances present themselves. Ruth fully embraces the Jewish nation as her own as she is even intending to be buried with them – “and there I will be buried”.
And, just in case Naomi is still unconvinced of Ruth’s genuine affection and conversion to the one true God, Ruth adds judgement upon herself if she reneges on her promise! “Thus may the LORD do to me, and worse, if anything but death parts you and me”.
Paul, in the book of Acts, continued to follow the one true God, even knowing that persecution was part of his lot.
Acts 20:22-24 "And now, behold, bound in spirit, I am on my way to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there, 23 except that the Holy Spirit solemnly testifies to me in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions await me. 24 "But I do not consider my life of any account as dear to myself, so that I may finish my course and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify solemnly of the gospel of the grace of God.
Naomi certainly seemed wise in making certain Ruth understood what may befall her if she chose to journey to Bethlehem. Less than a pretty picture was painted for the difficulties that might await the women. Naomi served Ruth in giving her a clear understanding of what her decision to follow meant. Ruth would find herself in a foreign land with a foreign people worshipping a God that had been unknown to her until the connection between these unlikely families years ago. The people of Israel would not tolerate worship of an idol. Ruth would have to become one of them in her thinking, in her practice and in her worship. Was she up for it? How sincere was her commitment to God?
Our faith is not a one-time, say the right words and own a life insurance policy, act of acknowledgement. When God chooses to transform a heart to understand who He is and what He has done, it is permanent and it is complete. There is no turning away lest we desire His hand of discipline. God will use us or He will remove us, but He will never lose us. Will we hang tight in tough times and be used? Will we hide and not fully understand what it means to be joyful in all circumstances? God will keep us if we are truly His. Will we stay wholly committed to His work for His glory?
The scene has moved from Naomi’s repeated persuasion for Ruth to turn back from the hardship ahead to a clear understanding of Ruth’s determination to follow. Nothing was able to dissuade Ruth from accompanying Naomi on this journey.
In Acts 21:10-12, Agabus had warned Paul that he would be bound and delivered into the hands of the Gentiles in Jerusalem. Those with Paul even begged him to not journey there for fear of what would befall him. But Paul was determined to follow God no matter the cost. Acts 21:13 Then Paul answered, "What are you doing, weeping and breaking my heart? For I am ready not only to be bound, but even to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus."
How would we hold up to this test of our faith? Paul, in the book of Ephesians, exhorts the church at Ephesus to live according to the grace of God. Midway through chapter six, after a long discourse on Christian living, we read these words, “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might” (Ephesians 6:10). He then goes on to list the armor we have in Christ. It is certain we are unable to live in a manner pleasing to God without His power working in us. Ruth has chosen to forsake all things to follow God. And He will use her for His glory.
The only thing Naomi has to offer is her commitment and love to God and the people of Israel. This is more than enough if you are truly devoted to God and trust in Him. For Naomi, this is the best decision, this is where she belongs, and she can count on God upholding her.
Ruth 1:10-14
Naomi has made a decision to return to the land of Bethlehem. Orpah and Ruth accompany her part of the way and we read of their tearful farewells. Naomi shares her desire of blessing upon her two daughters in law as they each return to their own families. The expectation is that Naomi will continue through the desert to Bethlehem and Orpah and Ruth will go back into Moab. They will be separated, and most likely never see each other again. This separation is very different than what we might experience today! There are no phones, no computers with Facebook or Instagram, and no regular mail delivery, just word of mouth. However, the parting does not go as expected!
Ruth 1:10 And they said to her, "[No,] but we will surely return with you to your people."
Orpah and Ruth assure their mother in law that they intend to break tradition and accompany Naomi to Bethlehem. You can hear them saying, ‘Of course we are not going back to Moab, and we had always planned on remaining with you’. Their response continues to give us insight into the special relationship of these women. The care and love that has built between them is evident. Somehow, the pull to stay with Naomi has become stronger than the desire to reside within their own homeland and relatives. Even when it means a greater opportunity for care and security. Remember there is a chasm of difference between the culture and teaching of Naomi’s birth land of Bethlehem and her daughters in law birth land of Moab. One was taught to follow Jewish law and the God of Israel; the others were brought up in a land known for its worship of many gods and pagan sacrifices. The young women have been drawn away from what they knew and drawn into the graciousness shown by Naomi.
We have the benefit of the whole story – isn’t it fun to see how God uses all circumstances for His glory in bringing people to Himself? Are we encouraging others to be drawn toward the God of the Bible as they interact with us? The next few verses give us Naomi’s response to her daughters in law and a picture into her burdened heart.
Ru 1:11 But Naomi said, "Return, my daughters. Why should you go with me? Have I yet sons in my womb, that they may be your husbands?
Naomi challenges the decision made by Orpah and Ruth to stay on with her. In fact, it almost seems like Naomi is warning the young women to turn back. The word ‘return’ is used repeatedly in the next several verses as Naomi urges her daughters in law to consider their only real option. Naomi asks them why they would journey with her since she is unable to offer them hope for the future. We have to remember once again a women’s position in that time – a man meant security, food, and shelter. Naomi is not in a position to bear more children and she most likely considers herself too old to be married again. Under Jewish law, if there had been a brother of Mahlon or Chilion, he then would have redeemed the young widow’s. But, this is not the case.
Deuteronomy 25:5 "When brothers live together and one of them dies and has no son, the wife of the deceased shall not be [married] outside [the family] to a strange man. Her husband's brother shall go in to her and take her to himself as wife and perform the duty of a husband's brother to her.
Even after having been removed from Jewish culture and law, we see Naomi following what she knew. This may be a testament of her strong desire to continue in her obedience to the God she has known. Perhaps she had even been instructing her daughters in law in the Jewish religion all along. Orpah and Ruth see an example of faithfulness in Naomi. Faithfulness to her people and faithfulness to her God.
Naomi realizes the difficulties that lie ahead of her. The journey to Bethlehem would be exhausting. Without benefit of male companions it would be even more challenging. Then when Naomi does arrive in Bethlehem, she is without her husband and needs to secure shelter and food for herself from family members who still reside there. She is well aware that her survival in Bethlehem will depend on gleaning the fields with the poor, fatherless, and needy. Naomi has compassion for her daughters in law and must wonder if they truly understand the choice they are making. Life in Bethlehem will not be easier, in fact, it may be very difficult. She is not even certain of her own future, never mind securing a future for her daughters. What a helpless feeling!
Transport yourself for a moment. Think of having lived in a foreign country for about ten years, experiencing the loss of your husband and only two sons, journeying back to the country you left and perhaps bringing the two women who have been the closest part of family for the last several years, into an unknown situation. You would feel responsible for their welfare, yet would be unable to make any promises of a bright future to them. I can only begin to imagine the difficult choices being made. Maybe Naomi’s tone of despair comes from wanting her daughters in law to truly understand the hardship they might be prolonging upon themselves if they chose to accompany her. The only thing Naomi has to offer is her commitment and love to God and the people of Israel. This is more than enough if you are truly devoted to God and trust in Him. For Naomi, this is the best decision, this is where she belongs, and she can count on God upholding her.
But where are Orpah and Ruth’s hearts in this matter? Have they learned to turn from their heathen God’s to the one true God of Israel? Is their trust in Him one which will cause them to leave the possibility of comforts and security found in their families? What about when it becomes even more difficult, do they have a faith that will sustain them or will they regret the decision to follow Naomi?
In Ruth 1:12-13 we continue to read Naomi’s response to her daughters in law as she appeals to their sense of reality and understanding.
Ruth 1:12-13 "Return, my daughters! Go, for I am too old to have a husband. If I said I have hope, if I should even have a husband tonight and also bear sons, 13 would you therefore wait until they were grown? Would you therefore refrain from marrying? No, my daughters; for it is harder for me than for you, for the hand of the LORD has gone forth against me."
Naomi once again tells her daughters in law to return to their own land with their own families. She continues to warn them of a road wrought with difficulties, maybe in an effort to test their resolve to follow her into Bethlehem. It even seems she is being a bit sarcastic in stating the obvious and impossible. She is old, will probably not marry and even if she did and was able to conceive immediately and have a son, it would be years before he could carry out Jewish law and marry one of them! This scenario is unrealistic, impractical and unfortunately begins to express the hopelessness and bitterness Naomi feels in her circumstances. I think my reply would be something like, “Seriously, I don’t even know if I am going to be able to take care of myself, let alone you younger women who still have the hope of a future”.
Read what Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Commentary says about Ruth 1:12-13, “That Naomi should dissuade her daughters-in-law so strongly from accompanying her to the land of Israel may appear strange. But it was the wisest and most prudent course for her to adopt: first, because they might be influenced by hopes which could not be realized; second, because they might be led, under temporary excitement, to take a step they might afterwards regret; and, third, because the sincerity and strength of their conversion to the true religion, which she had taught them, would be thoroughly tested”.
Naomi could have just responded with, ‘Oh sure, everything will be just fine, it will all work out’. Ultimately, when our faith is placed in God, we understand this to be true. Yet, is the whole picture represented well? What does ‘everything will be just fine’ convey? Often, the road of our faith has twists and turns and hills and valleys in it. Sometimes the journey we are on proves to be really hard! It is prudent to prepare for times of difficulty so we are not caught off-guard. Perhaps this is what Naomi is thinking for her daughters in law – preparing them for the journey ahead by reminding them of the hardships they are likely to encounter. She is careful to not only paint a rosy picture of the future which may benefit herself because she would have travel companions and help once settling in Bethlehem. Naomi presents the whole truth of what is likely. Even the opportunities for Ruth and Orpah to marry are lessened once they arrive. They are from a land that is not thought well of and marrying outside of the Jewish culture would be frowned upon in Israel.
2Corinthians 4:8-9 [we are] afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not despairing; 9 persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed;
Romans 8:17-18 and if children, heirs also, heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with [Him] in order that we may also be glorified with [Him.] 18 For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed to us.
Psalm 119:50 This is my comfort in my affliction, that Thy word has revived me.
Romans 15:4 For whatever was written in earlier times was written for our instruction, that through perseverance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.
Hebrews 6:19 This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, a [hope] both sure and steadfast and one which enters within the veil,
The importance of embracing reality also causes me to think upon how we share our faith. Consider this. What happens when faith is presented only as God’s love bestowing wonderful gifts on His children with multiple blessings and promises for a delightful future and no worries or trials or wants? When it gets difficult, how can this kind of faith sustain you? It won’t, it can’t! Do we share only one side of God – His love – without sharing the full truth of God – His judgement upon sin and the payment and trials that go along with His judgement?
Do we embrace God only when things are going well? What is the basis of our faith – is it built on truth, is it sustained with truth?
Although Naomi shows genuine concern for her daughters in law, she is feeling her own distress at the difficult circumstances surrounding her. Even to the point of wondering out loud that God’s hand is against her. When things go really south for us, we can easily allow ourselves to be overwhelmed by the conditions surrounding us rather than assured by God’s care keeping us.
Job expressed his sorrow much the same way in Job 19:21, "Pity me, pity me, O you my friends, for the hand of God has struck me”. In the book of Psalms, David says he felt God’s heavy hand against him. Psalm 32:4 For day and night Thy hand was heavy upon me; my vitality was drained away [as] with the fever heat of summer. Selah.
God’s hand can feel heavy upon us at times. We may be suffering the consequences of poor decisions we personally have made, or God, in His love, has chosen to allow circumstances in our lives that cause us to learn to trust Him more. Naomi may be wondering if hardship has come her way because of the family’s decision to move to Moab years before. Whatever the cause of our trials, we can make choices. If we are in error, we need to confess and make changes appropriate to honoring God. If we are unable to recognize specific sin that is causing our difficulty, we need to trust that God in His sovereignty knows what He has allowed for His glory to be manifested in our lives.
What is your reaction to difficulty and hardship? How can you continue to find peace and joy when you are feeling heavy-hearted? How can you encourage someone going through great difficulty?
We can almost hear the hopelessness in Naomi’s words. She is so downtrodden that there doesn’t seem to be anything she can do to help her daughters in law. God has stripped almost everything away from her. In Ruth 1:12 it says Naomi is grieved by the dire situation she is in. She knows it is best for her to return to her homeland but it means leaving two young women she has grown to love and care for. Consider her relationship again with her daughters in law. They are more than just acquaintances, they have become family with affections toward one other. Naomi is unable to invite the women to accompany her with any hope of a guarantee for a better life. She is also acutely aware than as she sends them back to their own relatives, their instruction in the Jewish law and the God of Israel will likely cease. This would be heartbreaking for any of us!
In our next study in Ruth we will look at a heart touched by God and prepared for His call.
You caused our nation to be founded on the premise of Your Truths.
God Shed His Grace on Thee
The only one perfect, omnipotent and omniscient originator and ruler of the universe – God – the only one worthy of all praise and worship. Please continue to pour Your blessings on our country. Even while we were undeserving, You caused our nation to be founded on the premise of Your Truths. In Your mercy, You continue to call hearts to Yourself as You miraculously change lives forever. I humbly pray Your grace continues to reach outward in the lives of those who have not yet bowed before You as Lord and Savior. Keep our hearts light with hope for the future, keep our eyes looking to encourage others with Your word. America, with its spacious skies, fields of grain, majestic mountains and fruited plains – see how we are blessed! Heavenly Creator and Father of all things, cause us to use Your blessings and resources for Your glory.
Psalm 90:2 Before the mountains were born Or You gave birth to the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, You are God.
Naomi may have been separated for a time from her land and the customs of Jewish worship and law, yet she did not lose her desire to return to what she knew.
The first five verses in Ruth gave us some important details of people involved, location, time and specific circumstances. (See Chasing Rainbows, Ruth 1:1-5). In a short review, we have Elimelech leading his family – wife Naomi, and sons Mahlon and Chilion – out of Bethlehem in Judah and into Moab during a time of severe famine. Moab was widely known as a land which worshipped heathen gods. Elimelech dies and both sons marry Moabite women – Ruth and Orpah. Then Mahlon and Chilion die, leaving Naomi, Ruth and Orpah as widows in a culture and time where woman were quite dependent on men for their care and provision. This is a dire situation. We now pick up the book of Ruth in verse six – Naomi makes decisions and takes action for her future and that of her daughters in law.
Ruth 1:6-7 Then she arose with her daughters-in-law that she might return from the land of Moab, for she had heard in the land of Moab that the LORD had visited His people in giving them food. 7 So she departed from the place where she was, and her two daughters-in-law with her; and they went on the way to return to the land of Judah.
Naomi makes a decision to return to Bethlehem. She hears that the famine is over which would mean there is now better opportunity for her care amongst the family and friends she had left behind when moving to Moab with her husband and sons. Although circumstances may lead us to believe that God has forgotten his children, this is never the case. He bestows His blessings at the perfect time, often requiring us to trust in His timing and direct provision. He will always provide what is necessary in our lives for His glory. Do we recognize this in our own lives – do we see God’s blessing hands guiding us?
Exodus 4:31 So the people believed; and when they heard that the LORD was concerned about the sons of Israel and that He had seen their affliction, then they bowed low and worshiped.
Ruth 1:5 says “the Lord had visited His people in giving them food”. Many families say a prayer of thankfulness when they eat. I pray we do not just say words habitually but instead recognize it is God’s blessing to have food to eat. God cares for His children, He knows our needs and bestows every good gift upon those who love and obey Him. It is easy for us to become expectant of having food when we are hungry. We should always remember that every blessing is a gift from God’s hand. It is His goodness that sustains His children.
James 1:17 Every good thing bestowed and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation, or shifting shadow.
Matthew 6:11 says, 'Give us this day our daily bread’ as an example of how we ought to pray to God – recognizing whose hand it is that sustains us.
Elimelech had determined it was necessary to move out of Bethlehem during the famine but now that Naomi has heard it is over, she intends to return to her own country. Her decision may have been influenced by the reality that she was a woman alone in a strange country with little hope for providing for herself. She had no male relatives to seek for her welfare in Moab.
Both Naomi’s daughters in law accompanied her at the beginning of her return to Judah. Since the assumption is Orpah and Ruth had families in Moab, they must have had somewhat of an endearing relationship to Naomi to consider leaving their own means of support. Orpah and Ruth are now young widows and the same difficulty that Naomi faces of sustaining herself applies to them. It seems the easier thing for the young widows to do would be return to their Moabite relatives for support and the hope of remarrying. Even with their husbands no longer living, their faithfulness to Naomi speaks of their affection and kindness toward each other. Think again about the differences in the land and customs each of these women came from. Naomi was from Bethlehem, a country of devoted Jews, largely following the laws God handed down to Moses for the nation of Israel. Orpah and Ruth grew up in a land devoted to idle worship, perhaps including acts of abomination, far removed from the one true God. It doesn’t seem these women could be farther apart in their culture and practice.
We don’t have a written record of Naomi’s reaction to Mahlon and Chilion marrying the women from Moab. It may have been difficult for her to accept the decisions her sons made as they went against what they had been taught. Perhaps Naomi felt there was no other solution since they now resided in this foreign country and her husband, Mahlon’s and Chilion’s father, had died. Whatever her reaction to Orpah and Ruth, what we do see is that they had formed a close enough relationship to care for one another. Naomi had shown grace toward these young women even though it may have been difficult to accept them. Think about how this example of graciousness may translate to your own life and relationships. Are we reluctant to reach out to those who may look or think different than ourselves? How do we react toward the seemingly unwise decisions of others? Do we forget God will use all things for His glory and purpose? Our responsibility is to be longsuffering, always being ready to share truth, having an encouraging and gentle spirit in the hopes of a soul being drawn towards Christ.
1Corinthians 13:4 Love is patient, love is kind, [and] is not jealous; love does not brag [and] is not arrogant,
2Corinthians 6:1, 3-4, 6 And working together [with Him,] we also urge you not to receive the grace of God in vain-- 3 giving no cause for offense in anything, in order that the ministry be not discredited, 4 but in everything commending ourselves as servants of God, in much endurance, in afflictions, in hardships, in distresses, 6 in purity, in knowledge, in patience, in kindness, in the Holy Spirit, in genuine love,
Back to our story line in Ruth. Orpah and Ruth walk with Naomi at the beginning of her travel back to Bethlehem. One commentary says it was the custom to accompany those whom they loved some part of their way when they went on a long journey (Patrick/Lowth/Whitby/Lowman Commentary). This again speaks of the relationship that had formed between Naomi and her daughters in law. The next verses, eight and nine, tell of Naomi’s encouragement to her daughters in law to return to their families.
Ruth 1:8-9 And Naomi said to her two daughters-in-law, "Go, return each of you to her mother's house. May the LORD deal kindly with you as you have dealt with the dead and with me. 9 "May the LORD grant that you may find rest, each in the house of her husband." Then she kissed them, and they lifted up their voices and wept.
It is possible that this conversation took place as the three women came to the borders of Moab. Naomi urges Orpah and Ruth to go back to their own mother’s house. She recognizes their kindness to herself and to her sons while they had been living, and she dismisses Orpah and Ruth with a blessing.
Consider this possible application as we look at our own relationships. Are we kind to the individuals God has placed in our lives? This is more than just smiling or having nice words to say. It is desiring God’s favor and mercy to be shown. Even when things get difficult do we continue in our care for one another, looking out for others best interests? Widowhood would expose Orpah and Ruth to a life of hardship. Desiring that they return to their own families and stay in the land where they are known would give them the best chance of finding a husband. Naomi is thinking more of them than herself. It would have been much easier for Naomi to have them accompany her on her journey back to Bethlehem. The three women had been through difficult circumstances together and the thought of parting was sorrowful. A kiss was the usual sign of greeting and farewell.
In conclusion, Ruth 1:6-9 has continued to be action packed. Upon hearing of God’s blessing in lifting the famine from Bethlehem, Naomi makes a decision to go back to her country after the death of her husband and two sons. Her daughters in law begin accompanying her, as was custom, to the edge of Moab. Naomi then encourages each of them to go back to the homes of their relatives where they would have the best chance of securing a future for themselves. A small insight into the women’s relationship together suggests that it was one of kindness and affection. Ruth dismisses the young women with a blessing that the kindness they have shown towards herself and her sons when they were alive, is turned towards them. Finally we read of the difficult and emotional good-byes as each woman prepares to go on her way.
Some additional thoughts to consider:
Naomi may have been separated for a time from her land and the customs of Jewish worship and law, yet she did not lose her desire to return to what she knew. What is our response when we are removed from our church family for a time? Do we miss being in fellowship? Does our desire to return remain strong?
Naomi’s concern for her daughters in law happiness is evident. We read this in verses eight and nine and down through verses 11-13 of this same chapter. The same desire of ‘rest’ – a more peaceful and secure life than that of widowhood – is again spoken of by Naomi toward Ruth in chapter three verse one.
Ruth 3:1 Then Naomi her mother-in-law said to her, "My daughter, shall I not seek security for you, that it may be well with you?
When our circumstances seem dire, are we still able to focus on the blessing of others? Do we suffer from tunnel vision, only able to see our own difficulties?
Do we easily become discontent with our circumstances? Do we hastily try to fix things on our own? Do we prayerfully consider if there is truly a call to change direction or does our trust in God need to grow?
The book of Ruth is sandwiched between Judges and 1 Samuel, acting as an appendix to Judges and an introduction to 1st and 2nd Samuel. Ruth is the shortest of the historical books and at its conclusion, it contains the genealogy of Jesus. God uses all things for His glory – including an unsuspecting foreigner from a heathen land! The exact time Ruth was written and the author of Ruth is somewhat uncertain. We have a general period of time that the writings of Ruth took place during the days when the judges ruled and during a time of severe famine. There are three possibilities of authorship: Hezekiah, Ezra and Samuel, with most theologians agreeing on Samuel as the author. With this bit of background information, let’s begin our study.
Ruth 1:1-2 Now it came about in the days when the judges governed, that there was a famine in the land. And a certain man of Bethlehem in Judah went to sojourn in the land of Moab with his wife and his two sons. 2 And the name of the man [was] Elimelech, and the name of his wife, Naomi; and the names of his two sons [were] Mahlon and Chilion, Ephrathites of Bethlehem in Judah. Now they entered the land of Moab and remained there.
When – The days when the judges governed.
Where – Bethlehem in Judah and the land of Moab
Who – Elimelech (el-ee-meh’-lek), Naomi, Mahlon (makh-lone’) and Chilion (kil-yone’) – a family from Bethlehem
The setting of this book quickly moves from Bethlehem to Moab. There was a famine in the land, a judgment on the Jewish nation from God foretold in Leviticus chapter 26.
Leviticus 26:19-20 'And I will also break down your pride of power; I will also make your sky like iron and your earth like bronze. 20 'And your strength shall be spent uselessly, for your land shall not yield its produce and the trees of the land shall not yield their fruit.
During this time of famine, Elimelech chose to relocate his family to a more fertile area – Moab, a country south-east of Judah (Palestine). This was in order to provide for his family. Here’s a thought to consider: on one hand this move seems good in the caring of his family. Yet, it begs the question of perhaps trying to get by with less and trusting God more. Sometimes necessity dictates a move or change in direction, yet, not always. Moving to a land which was known to worship heathen Gods would directly influence Elimelech’s family. Waiting patiently upon God’s provision and answers is a choice we can all make.
Do we easily become discontent with our circumstances? Do we hastily try to fix things on our own? Do we prayerfully consider if there is truly a call to change direction or does our trust in God need to grow?
Bring these questions even closer to your own personal circumstances. Think! Sometimes, when we choose to make a change which seems for the better, we are avoiding a deeper problem. For instance, I heard a conversation between two individuals where one was determined to move out of state because it was becoming too liberal. This may be true, however, the opportunity to share truth becomes greater when we are surrounded by unbelief. Did Jesus hang around only those who thought like he did? Could the real problem reside in our own discomfort or disconnect with a church family to encourage us? Are we chasing after the hollow promise that ‘things will be better’ in general if we make a move?
Most people have heard the idiom, ‘chasing after rainbows’. In our human thinking we can easily be distracted by the thought that there is something better to attain, somewhere better to live, a better career to pursue, and sadly, even a better relationship then the ones we have. The truth is we have everything to live a life honoring to God right where we are. There is no need to chase after something more. To my knowledge, no one has been able to catch a rainbow!
We do have freedoms to make decisions we think are best but let’s not make choices based on discontent. God placed each of us right where He wants us and He will use our circumstances for His glory if we are obedient to His calling. This can be applied in many different areas of life – our families, our careers, the number of children we may or may not have, our relationships, our geographical location, our health, the home in which we live, and on and on. We can choose to trust that God will use us where He put us; He will provide for us and care for us if we sincerely desire to follow Him.
Lamentations 3:25 The LORD is good to those who wait for Him, to the person who seeks Him.
Matthew 6:26 "Look at the birds of the air, that they do not sow, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns, and [yet] your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not worth much more than they?
The Family Bible Notes says: “To remove, from a regard to worldly circumstances merely, out of a land of religious light and privileges to a land of darkness and idolatry, is a course full of danger, and likely to terminate in distress.”
As we continue in the next verse of Ruth, we indeed see that grief entered into Elimelech’s family.
Ruth 1:3-4 Then Elimelech, Naomi's husband, died; and she was left with her two sons. 4 And they took for themselves Moabite women [as] wives; the name of the one was Orpah and the name of the other Ruth. And they lived there about ten years.
There is no exact time frame to follow regarding Elimelech’s death. It may have been shortly after the family arrived in Moab. Naomi was left with her two sons, Mahlon and Chilion. We are only somewhat familiar with the impact that Elimelech’s death would have on his family. We need to step back in time and culture to fully appreciate the dire circumstance this mother found herself in.
According to The Complete Guide to the Bible, written by Stephen M. Miller, “Widows, along with orphans and immigrants, were among the most vulnerable people in Bible times. It was a man’s world. Women were minors in a court of law – like kids today. Women were also the property of men – fathers, husbands, or sons. So women generally weren’t allowed to own property or conduct business. They weren’t considered capable of that since their education was typically limited to household matters: cooking, sewing, and hauling water.”
No matter the culture we live in or the circumstances we find ourselves, whether in trouble because of our own poor choices or being disciplined through God’s love, He has promised to care for His children. God will guide us through the greatest difficulties – always for His glory.
Psalm 34:4, 19 I sought the LORD, and He answered me, and delivered me from all my fears.19 Many are the afflictions of the righteous; But the LORD delivers him out of them all.
Hebrews 12:11 All discipline for the moment seems not to be joyful, but sorrowful; yet to those who have been trained by it, afterwards it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness.
Do we hold on to God’s promises even when our own circumstances seem dire? We are never beyond God’s reach if we seek Him. No trouble or problem takes God by surprise. We can always find peace and security as we seek to follow Him.
Naomi finds herself a widowed mother of two sons. Ruth 1:4 gives us information that her sons seemed to have integrated fairly well into a society that did not honor God. In Bethlehem, the family had followed Jewish law and at least Naomi had continued on in that belief enough for Ruth to take notice later in this chapter.
Perhaps without strong leadership from their father Elimelech, Mahlon and Chilion had forgotten or decided to forego the teaching of their God. If we have been blessed with family, it is extremely important to consider the time we have with them as an opportunity to teach them by our speech and our example, of God truths.
Mahlon and Chilion married Orpah and Ruth – Moabite women. Reading the Strong’s Hebrew Dictionary definition of the word ‘took’ translated from nasa’ is interesting. There are several applications but what stood out to me were the words ‘accept’ and ‘yield’. These descriptions caused me to consider the importance of who we constantly place around us and the influence of culture. While we need to be out in the world, the necessity to guard against the enticement of sin is of utmost importance. It is easy to begin to think differently even without our immediate notice. Jewish law stated it was a grievance against God for Mahlon and Chilion to marry outside of their belief.
Deuteronomy 7:3-4 "Furthermore, you shall not intermarry with them; you shall not give your daughters to their sons, nor shall you take their daughters for your sons. "For they will turn your sons away from following Me to serve other gods; then the anger of the LORD will be kindled against you, and He will quickly destroy you.
‘Them’ refers to the foreign nations which were known to worship heathen gods. The nation of Israel was told to have nothing to do with them, ‘make no covenants with them and show no favor to them’ (Deuteronomy 7:1-2).
Ezra 9:1 Now when these things had been completed, the princes approached me, saying, "The people of Israel and the priests and the Levites have not separated themselves from the peoples of the lands, according to their abominations, [those] of the Canaanites, the Hittites, the Perizzites, the Jebusites, the Ammonites, the Moabites, the Egyptians, and the Amorites.
If you have spent time with children that are school age, you have certainly witnessed the surprising words and actions they repeat that they’ve been exposed to on the playground. Often, they are unaware what inappropriate words or actions even mean, they have just been influenced and are copying what they see to fit in. Influence happens quickly. Consider the impact of a television show or movie. Children, and sometimes adults, quickly pick up on a phrase or event and repeat what they’ve seen and heard. If you have worked outside the home, you understand how easy it is for mannerisms to ‘rub off’ on you. ‘Worldly’ behaviors can be adopted into our lifestyle if we are constantly surrounded by them. It is imperative that we fight against their influence. We do not and should not live in a protective bubble, but we must guard that our awareness does not become dull.
Have you been negatively influenced? How do you stay aware so this doesn’t happen? Are you careful to guard your heart or are you careless in choosing to constantly being exposed to things that dishonor God?
We can quickly think that we are impervious to poor influence in our walk. Years ago, one of my children began picking up an attitude. With this attitude was the rolling of the eyes which was done as a definite sign of disrespect against authority. Of course, this child was disciplined for this behavior – several times and over what seemed to be an agonizingly long period. To my dismay, unbeknownst to me, I had picked up this same expression from him. I didn’t even realize it until I was in the front yard working with my husband and he said something to me that apparently I didn’t agree with or didn’t like. I rolled my eyes at my husband, which he didn’t see, fortunately. One of my neighbors however, who had been talking with us, did see my rude expression. Needless to say I was embarrassed, humiliated and horrified and apologies followed. I had not meant to be disrespectful to my husband, but had picked up on the expression I had seen so often in our child! Influenced – guilty as charged.
Back to our account of Ruth. After about ten years, we read in the next verse of this section that Mahlon and Chilion died.
Ruth 1:5 Then both Mahlon and Chilion also died; and the woman was bereft of her two children and her husband.
According to some commentaries, the death of Naomi’s sons may have been judgement upon them for marrying women who were not Israelites. In any case, in the course of ten years, Naomi is without her husband and sons and in a place of strangers. This situation truly is desperate in that time with no means of support and no males in the family to provide.
Fast forward this account of extreme calamity in Naomi’s life and we know God is working all things out for His good and will use her to glorify Himself. This should cause us to remember the lovingkindness of God towards His children even in their often futile attempts at following Him. He does have a plan in spite of our poor judgement and weakness. Our sin is not bigger than God’s grace. Jeremiah reminds the Israelites of this in his letter sent from Jerusalem to those who were captive in Babylon. The Israelites are warned to beware of being deceived in Jeremiah 29:8-9. Then they are reminded that God is continuing to work in their lives and will bless them, in verses 11-13.
God is always faithful to bring about His perfect plan. In the most difficult of circumstances, comfort can always be found in God. Even in Naomi’s extreme condition of sorrow, God is working. He is preparing a young widow’s heart to express compassion and care.
In the book of John it says, "Let not your heart be troubled; believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father's house are many dwelling places; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you to Myself; that where I am, [there] you may be also” (John 14:1-3).
It is certain that Jesus will return and His children will reside in heaven with Him. There is no doubt! …
Announcing … the release of my first book! I am praising God for His enduring love in keeping me on track in this exciting and exhausting journey.
If you are lead to do so, please like my Facebook page @focusheavenward and share it with your contacts. Until Death Do We Meet is available for purchase at Barnes and Noble online, Amazon books, and Westbow Press, a division of Thomas Nelson and Zondervan.
You are encouraged to leave a review on the above sites. Feel free to contact me through focusheavenward@gmail.com.
The Key to a Mansion Awaits You!
Promises, contracts, oaths, vows – these are all different signs of commitment. We promise to do something, we put our signature on contracts to secure expectations of the parties involved, we take oaths to uphold certain agreed upon values, and we show the sincerity of our commitment in spoken vows to one another.
Yet, are we truly able to keep all of our promises, fulfill every contract perfectly, maintain each word of an oath we have recited with absolute completeness, and carry out each part of a vow with success?
Our answer – probably not. The truth – most definitely not! Each of our relationships is dependent on a certain fulfillment of spoken and unspoken expectations. If we were able to always say and do everything perfectly, there would be no problems with commitment. And, many lawyers would be out of a job!
But, we have a great deal of hope! Relationships can and do work. And they work well, when they are based on the truths of God’s love for us. When we begin to understand God’s love and commitment to us, what He has done for us and what He expects of us, each of our personal relationships with friends, family, our spouse, neighbors, and colleagues, will be affected for the better.
Keep in mind as you read this book, the most important application to make is your own personal response to God’s love and commitment towards you! So although there will be reference to a marriage relationship, this is not the major inference.
I pray you will recognize that a greater appreciation of God’s faithfulness towards His children produces a desire to extend that same faithfulness and devotion towards the individuals He has placed in your life. …
Several years ago in September, my Mom and I spent a day on Catalina Island off the California coast. We enjoyed a tour of Avalon while a guide narrated the history of many of the landmark buildings. As we drove by a gorgeous home, overlooking the bay, we listened to the sad history behind its construction.
The story goes like this. A young man just betrothed to his beloved, began building her a beautiful home which they would enjoy after their marriage. He worked on this dwelling tirelessly, looking forward to that day of finally bringing his bride home. When the mansion was completed, he waited with great anticipation for her arrival for their wedding day. However, she did not show up. Apparently she had changed her mind and never returned to the island. The young man was so devastated, he forbid any female to enter the home he had built. So for more than forty years the structure was abandoned. It was kept up but not enjoyed, not lived in by its intended couple and therefore not loved in either. This is a tragic account and although most of us do not have as graphic a story as this one to tell, we have all experienced broken promises from people we have loved, either in friendships, among family members or even within a marriage. The vows people make are unreliable; God’s vow of love to His children is absolute.
In the book of John it says, "Let not your heart be troubled; believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father's house are many dwelling places; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you to Myself; that where I am, [there] you may be also” (John 14:1-3).
It is certain that Jesus will return and His children will reside in heaven with Him. There is no doubt! …
I pray your focus is drawn to Christs’ eternal kingdom where you will finally meet your Lord and Savior face to face –
Focus Heavenward with me,
Sharyn.
What does it mean to live? It is opposite of death. As a child of God, a believer who has placed their trust completely in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, to live is to be made alive again. To be revived, to be preserved, to be saved and made whole in Christ. Our need to be saved from the power of sin and death has been fully met in Christ.
Word by word, line by line and we’ve come to the last two verses of Psalm 119! This study of understanding God’s gift to us through His written commands has caused my heart to grow in its praise for our Lord and Savior. The value contained in the Bible written by hands, directed by God, is immeasurable. These last two verses in this Psalm end with a praise, a prayer request, and a determination and purpose to follow God’s commands.
Psalm 119:175 Let my soul live that it may praise Thee, and let Thine ordinances help me.
My soul is what makes me, me! It is that very part of me that only God can access, It is the inner most recesses of my heart, The soul is not found in anatomy books, its location is known only to God, it is His to change, to direct and to own. It is God who initiates the love that causes our conversion to trust in Him; it is God who has the authority to place us exactly where He desires; and it is God who possesses our soul to use our lives for His glory. The request of David to let his soul live is directed to the only One who is able to do so. The Psalmist understands that this most precious part of him that defines his spiritual awakening belongs to God.
What do you think? When we believe these truths with our whole heart, we will more likely desire His leading, and plan and move forward even in difficulty. The question of ‘why is this happening?’ is not where we will linger. Instead it will be a question of ‘what would You have me to do?’
What does David request in Psalm 119:175? – let my soul live.
Remember the setting which David is writing. He repeatedly asks for God’s mercies and protection as his life is threatened. David suffers because others hate what he believes and what he stands for. Truth is always a threat to those who follow their own selfish ambitions.
Romans 1:18-20 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, because that which is known about God is evident within them; for God made it evident to them. For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are without excuse.
David represents truth and because of that, his life is in danger.
At one point, the Psalmist also has the hand of God disciplining him for sin in his own life, for choosing to follow worldly lusts rather than keeping his eyes on God.
Psalm 119:75 I know, O LORD, that Thy judgments are righteous, And that in faithfulness Thou hast afflicted me.
The Psalmist has experienced God’s protection and God’s judgement. He has learned to cry for help and forgiveness. He realizes he deserves neither yet he also knows God’s great love for him.
A familiar section of scripture comes to mind.
Ephesians 2:1-5 And you were dead in your trespasses and sins, 2 in which you formerly walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, of the spirit that is now working in the sons of disobedience. 3 Among them we too all formerly lived in the lusts of our flesh, indulging the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, even as the rest. 4 But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, 5 even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved),
Consider this: the very fact that you are able to understand scripture – not as a grammatical exercise but as a life-changing manual of love from God – is because God has reached down into your soul and claimed it for Himself, because He loves you! Ponder this truth for a moment. It should move you to an overwhelming sense of thankfulness and awe for God’s power and presence in your life.
What does it mean to live? It is opposite of death. As a child of God, a believer who has placed their trust completely in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, to live is to be made alive again. To be revived, to be preserved, to be saved and made whole in Christ. Our need to be saved from the power of sin and death has been fully met in Christ.
Why does the Psalmist pray to let his soul live? That it may praise God! Our soul is designed to be with God in heaven. Is your soul filled with praise for God who alone makes this possible? Whom do you speak of, whom do you boast about, and whom do you celebrate?
Psalm 34:2 My soul shall make its boast in the LORD; the humble shall hear it and rejoice.
Jeremiah 9:23-24 Thus says the LORD, "Let not a wise man boast of his wisdom, and let not the mighty man boast of his might, let not a rich man boast of his riches; 24 but let him who boasts boast of this, that he understands and knows Me, that I am the LORD who exercises lovingkindness, justice, and righteousness on earth; for I delight in these things, "declares the LORD.
We are saved to praise! Our desire as we live on this earth should be to praise God. When we are called to heaven, we will praise God. It’s not about us – it is about God’s glory. How are you praising God with your life? Do you freely speak of Him? Where do you spend the time He has given you? Are you quick to serve others as an opportunity to show your praise to God? Is His praise the goal of your pursuits? Are you light in a world of darkness? Are you aiming to fulfill your desires or to fulfill the desires God has for you?
There are things we all enjoy. Each of us has been given unique likes and dislikes, dreams, abilities and opportunities. All of this is good – as long as my pursuit of them does not diminish my obedience and desire to serve God. How are you doing in this area? Are you willing to pray that God will even remove the desires you have so that your focus and pursuit is more completely on Him?
Our example in David is that he asks God to protect his soul and to comfort his soul – so that he can praise God.
“Let my soul live. Fill it full of life, preserve it from wandering into the ways of death, give it to enjoy the indwelling of the Holy Ghost, let it live to the fulness of life, to the utmost possibilities of its new created being.” Treasury of David
How does David determine to praise God? Through the power of His word: “And let Thine ordinances help me.”
All of God’s word collectively – His judgments, His commands, His blessings – every aspect of God’s word is to be used to help us live in a manner that brings glory to His name.
David can personally testify to God’s protection, His guidance, His care, His discipline, His promises, His unwavering love, His forgiveness, His strength, His mercies, His grace, His peace, and His comfort. Each of us are able to do the same! God is David’s hope presently and for the future. Each of us is able to have the same hope!
Romans 8:18 For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed to us.
Romans 8:28 And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to [His] purpose.
2Corinthians 4:17 For momentary, light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison,
1Peter 1:3-9 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 to [obtain] an inheritance [which is] imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, 5 who are protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. 6 In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials, 7 that the proof of your faith, [being] more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ; 8 and though you have not seen Him, you love Him, and though you do not see Him now, but believe in Him, you greatly rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, 9 obtaining as the outcome of your faith the salvation of your souls.
God’s judgments – the fact that He is in control, sees things exactly as they are, and will right all wrong in His time – comfort and help us in time of affliction. We can be secure in our direction as we seek to follow Him in all righteousness and we can be assured that God will tend to those who are against Him. God’s word is an encouragement to those who seek Him. God has given His children a complete instruction manual on how to live in a way that is honoring to Him. This is not a manual in which we check off a box each time a task is completed. Rather it is a living guide that will continually direct us if we are sincere in our desire to follow God. God will work in our lives as He corrects us and leads us to be conformed to His likeness. Either in death or life, we are to praise God – His glory is our focus.
Is our hope and confidence in God? Is our praise to Him shown in a life of desiring holiness – even when it means denying what the world calls happiness? Think eternal versus momentary.
Psalm 119:176 I have gone astray like a lost sheep; seek Thy servant, for I do not forget Thy commandments.
This is an interesting conclusion to this Psalm. In the previous verse, David was praising God, now he seems to be considering his dire straits. The more we understand our need for God, the more our praise will increase as we recognize His protection and blessings. Consider what it means to hear good news. Typically it is information beneficial to ourselves or others, something that is desirable and has positive effects. The Good News of the gospel shines brighter and brighter when we identify more and more with the bad news of our lost condition.
Truth –
All humankind is lost in their sin (Ecclesiastes 7:20).
Sin is anything done against God’s commands (1 John 3:4; 5:17).
Sin is avoiding to do what God says (James 4:17).
Our thoughts can be sinful (Genesis 6:5).
Our speech can be sinful (Matthew 15:19).
These are sobering statements. But, the hope we have is great and the writer of Psalm 119, David, never completely forgot who he was and the miraculous gift he’d been given. The beginning of verse 176 above mirrors a familiar verse in Isaiah.
Isaiah 53:6 All of us like sheep have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way; But the LORD has caused the iniquity of us all to fall on Him.
Sheep are largely thought of as unintelligent animals. They tend to panic and are easily preyed upon as they have little ability to defend themselves. Sheep need constant protection. Adam Clarke’s Commentary says, “A sheep, when it has once lost the flock, strays in such a manner as to render the prospect of its own return utterly hopeless”.
Something important to note is the tone of David’s words. He knows his tendency is to wander from God, he is in constant battle with his sin nature. Understanding his need for God’s direction increases his desire to obey God and seek His protection. It is a scary world out there with opportunities to stumble around each corner!
Paul understood the pull of sin in his life also. Romans 7 beginning with verse 19 says, “For the good that I wish, I do not do; but I practice the very evil that I do not wish. But if I am doing the very thing I do not wish, I am no longer the one doing it, but sin which dwells in me. I find then the principle that evil is present in me, the one who wishes to do good. For I joyfully concur with the law of God in the inner man, but I see a different law in the members of my body, waging war against the law of my mind, and making me a prisoner of the law of sin which is in my members. (Romans 7:19-23)
Do we have an accurate view of ourselves? Do we see the conflict in our heart? We cannot fight what we do not recognize. A lost soul does not recognize its misery and does not understand its eternal ruin. A graced soul desires God’s hand to hold him secure and pull him back when he wanders.
Throughout this Psalm, David has requested God’s help and protection. He has confessed his sin and he has confessed his love and need for God’s word. David’s heart is full of devotion to God. We see this in his praise for Him and his purpose to obey Him.
David requests for God to “seek Thy servant”. On our own, we would not seek God. It takes God’s hand reaching down to us. God will not leave His children defenseless; He will not allow them to remain lost and without their Shepherd. David knew what it meant to be a shepherd. This is a heartwarming picture of God’s love and tender care and mercies.
Ezekiel 34:12 "As a shepherd cares for his herd in the day when he is among his scattered sheep, so I will care for My sheep and will deliver them from all the places to which they were scattered on a cloudy and gloomy day.
Matthew 18:12 "What do you think? If any man has a hundred sheep, and one of them has gone astray, does he not leave the ninety-nine on the mountains and go and search for the one that is straying?
Luke 19:10 "For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost."
God will look after His children. He will help them to avoid danger. He will restore them to peace. We must make an effort to remember and practice His commands. This effort is more than just awareness. It is more than ‘I’ve been in the Word today’. We cannot claim any portion of our lives for ourselves. All of us belongs to God.
David ends Psalm 119 with his resolve to follow God, “For I do not forget Thy commandments”. He’s penned similar words several times over the course of his writing.
Psalm 119:16, “I shall not forget Thy word”.
Psalm 119:44, “I will keep Thy law continually”
Psalm 119:55, we read that David intends to “keep Thy law”.
Psalm 119:93, “I will never forget Thy precepts”.
The repeated dedication to observing and keeping God’s word speaks of the value it holds to the Psalmist.
“In this humble, prayerful manner this long Psalm closes, and so will the believer's life-story end. Confession mourns a thousand faults, faith sees grace still alive within the soul, and prayer pleads for divine mercy. With such a prayer our earthly life will come to a fitting FINIS.” Spurgeon Devotional Commentary
I forget all kinds of things. Often, I am looking for my phone or even the car in a parking lot. I have even momentarily forgotten names of those I’ve known for years. In those cases, I’m largely on my own to remember details. God wants us to remember His commands, therefore He will not leave us alone with our feeble brains to call to mind what His word says – He’s given us His Holy Spirit to help. God knows we are weak. Because of His amazing love for us, He gives us every possible way to succeed in following Him.
Philippians 2:12-13 So then, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for [His] good pleasure.
We have a great and certain hope. In this last verse of Psalm 119, we have a confession of sin, a request for God’s help and a renewed commitment to follow Him. In humility we need to come before God seeing and believing in His truths. God has showered His mercy upon us through His Son. He gives us grace to weather any storm and He desires to continually bless His children.
Are we seeking our Savior through God’s sanctifying Word or are we determined to satisfy ourselves?
2Corinthians 3:4-5 And such confidence we have through Christ toward God. Not that we are adequate in ourselves to consider anything as [coming] from ourselves, but our adequacy is from God,
Hebrews 13:20-21 Now the God of peace, who brought up from the dead the great Shepherd of the sheep through the blood of the eternal covenant, [even] Jesus our Lord, equip you in every good thing to do His will, working in us that which is pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom [be] the glory forever and ever. Amen.
We can claim God’s protection and mercy. He will uphold us, He will defend us, and He will keep us until that day He calls us home.
Psalm 136:10-12
In verses 1-9 of this Psalm, the concentration was on the positive blessings God has given us in His creation of our earth and His goodness to us. Now, as we continue this Psalm of praise, we explore how God’s judgement on sin, towards those who persecute His children, is merciful and good.
Consider the things people seek for protection and shelter. Buildings, alarms, finances, weapons, armed guards and even underground shelters. The mightiest of buildings fail– consider the attacks on the World Trade Center and Pentagon in 2001. Alarms, weapons and shelters all have limits to their protection and strength. The security of money is at best temporary, dependent on the economy. Guards cannot be everywhere at all times. What does the Bible say about seeking protection aside from God?
Ps 127:1 Unless the LORD builds the house, They labor in vain who build it; Unless the LORD guards the city, The watchman keeps awake in vain.
Ps 121:3-7 He will not allow your foot to slip; He who keeps you will not slumber. Behold, He who keeps Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. The LORD is your keeper; The LORD is your shade on your right hand. The sun will not smite you by day, nor the moon by night. The LORD will protect you from all evil; He will keep your soul.
God’s protection has no limits. His protection for His children reaches far beyond anything we might seek elsewhere. To set the stage for our understanding, we have to back up and look at some history. The Israelites were under bondage to the Egyptians under Pharaoh’s rule. Their persecution was heavy and their ability to worship and obey God’s law was under constant attack. God chose to show His power and might in sending plagues upon the Egyptians so that His people would be freed. Pharaoh refused to bow to the almighty God of Israel.
Ex 11:5-7 and all the first-born in the land of Egypt shall die, from the first-born of the Pharaoh who sits on his throne, even to the first-born of the slave girl who is behind the millstones; all the first-born of the cattle as well. 6 'Moreover, there shall be a great cry in all the land of Egypt, such as there has not been [before] and such as shall never be again. 7 'But against any of the sons of Israel a dog shall not [even] bark, whether against man or beast, that you may understand how the LORD makes a distinction between Egypt and Israel.'
Ex 12:12 'For I will go through the land of Egypt on that night, and will strike down all the first-born in the land of Egypt, both man and beast; and against all the gods of Egypt I will execute judgments--I am the LORD.
God had delivered the nation of Israel out of Egypt and the bondage of Pharaoh. His power and favor upon His chosen people exemplifies His great mercy. The Israelites had been oppressed and held captive until that perfect time when God in His lovingkindness reached out to their rescue.
Ps 136:10-12 To Him who smote the Egyptians in their first-born, For His lovingkindness is everlasting, 11 And brought Israel out from their midst, For His lovingkindness is everlasting, 12 With a strong hand and an outstretched arm, For His lovingkindness is everlasting;
God chooses to love us – we do not deserve His favor yet His mercy is all around us. Consider His creation. We have air to breathe, light to guide us, sunshine to keep us strong, color to enjoy, and on and on. God’s mercy is also constantly displayed in His power and protection of His children. Even in Israel’s repeated sin, God continued to care for them. How have you seen His power in your life? In what ways has He protected you? How is His faithfulness displayed to you even in your weakness and disobedience?
If you are God’s child, claiming His salvation through His Son Jesus Christ alone, then you have been delivered from death just as the Israelites were delivered from Egypt. Without Christ, all of us are in bondage to sin and evil. Because of Christ, we have been freed from the control of Satan. These are strong thoughts but true.
Ro 3:23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,
Isa 53:5-6 But He was pierced through for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; the chastening for our well-being [fell] upon Him, and by His scourging we are healed. All of us like sheep have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way; But the LORD has caused the iniquity of us all to fall on Him.
Ro 6:22-23 But now having been freed from sin and enslaved to God, you derive your benefit, resulting in sanctification, and the outcome, eternal life. For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Isa 63:7 I shall make mention of the lovingkindnesses of the LORD, the praises of the LORD, According to all that the LORD has granted us, And the great goodness toward the house of Israel, Which He has granted them according to His compassion, And according to the multitude of His lovingkindnesses.
Because of God’s great mercy, Israel was delivered from its enemy. Imagine the dire straits of the Jewish nation as they were held captive. Yet, God always had a plan for their care because of His kindness. Even in our most trying circumstances, we can choose to trust in God’s enduring love.
Psalm 136:12 speaks of God’s “strong hand and an outstretched arm”. God’s power is limitless. Ex 15:6 "Thy right hand, O LORD, is majestic in power, Thy right hand, O LORD, shatters the enemy.
The truths of God’s power and protection should lead us to praise Him! God has reached out to each of us. Have you responded?
Jude 1:24-25 says, “Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling, and to make you stand in the presence of His glory blameless with great joy, to the only God our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, [be] glory, majesty, dominion and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen.
2Th 3:3 But the Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen and protect you from the evil [one.]
We can claim God’s protection and mercy. He will uphold us, He will defend us, and He will keep us until that day He calls us home. When we truly believe His word as absolute truth, we will respond in gratitude for His amazing love.
Picture His outstretched arm reaching towards His children in love. There is no problem beyond His reach or understanding. Praise Him – for His lovingkindness is everlasting!
Isa 41:10 'Do not fear, for I am with you; do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.'
Accounts of waiting upon, longing for, hoping in, delighting in and rejoicing in God’s salvation and His word are seen throughout the Old and New Testaments. These are actions and attitudes for us to emulate in all the circumstances of our life as we hold on to the promise of what is to come.
Psalm 119:172-174
Ps 119:169-171 Let my cry come before Thee, O LORD; Give me understanding according to Thy word. Let my supplication come before Thee; Deliver me according to Thy word. Let my lips utter praise, For Thou dost teach me Thy statutes.
Recognize the humility of our Psalmist as he requests that God will hear him. When we ask something from someone else, we recognize our lack and need for help. David seeks understanding from God; he asks for deliverance according to God’s plan. The Psalmist’s instruction and protection come only from God and he bows before the very source of his life – Jehovah, the Eternal Lord. As we move forward to verse 172, David continues to capture the value of God’s word and his need to be encompassed by its truths.
Ps 119:172 Let my tongue sing of Thy word, for all Thy commandments are righteousness.
In verse 171, the Psalmist requested that his speech burst forth in continuous praise for God’s instruction to him. He now expands this thought in his desire to offer praise in song as a response to God’s righteous commandments.
Consider. In order to offer praise to God for His commands through speaking and singing, it would be necessary to know them. How can we sincerely speak of God’s commands without knowledge and understanding of them? Do we contemplate the words we are singing when lifting praise to God in music or are we just held captive by a pleasing melody?
For instance, when we sing the familiar words ‘How Great Thou Art’, what do they mean? How is God great, what makes Him great, how is His greatness displayed?
David desires that every word from his mouth, whether in speech or song, is from God’s truths. Our words are a powerful tool. They can be used as instruments in blessing others if we are careful to have God’s commands in our heart and thoughts.
When David writes ‘all God’s commands are righteousness’, he includes God’s word in its entirety, not choosing only those things that are easy but everything that God requires. He is careful to use his words to speak truth. In Psalm 37 and 40, also authored by David, we read the same volition.
Ps 37:30 The mouth of the righteous utters wisdom, and his tongue speaks justice.
Ps 40:9 I have proclaimed glad tidings of righteousness in the great congregation; Behold, I will not restrain my lips, O LORD, Thou knowest. Do you hesitate to share the gospel or speak of God because you’re uncomfortable or think it is someone else’s job? Each one of God’s children has been given a precious gift. With this gift comes a responsibility to use it for God’s glory and tell others who He is and what He has done for them – even if you feel lacking in your communication skills.
In the book of Deuteronomy, Moses gave specific instruction to seek knowledge and understanding of God’s commands and continuously speak of them.
De 6:6-7 "And these words, which I am commanding you today, shall be on your heart; and you shall teach them diligently to your sons and shall talk of them when you sit in your house and when you walk by the way and when you lie down and when you rise up.
Paul warned the church in his letter to the Ephesians to be careful with their words.
Eph 4:29 Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such [a word] as is good for edification according to the need [of the moment,] that it may give grace to those who hear.
When we speak with God’s truths and think with His commands and engulf our lives with His word, we will be pleasing to Him and the words that come out of our mouths will be a sweet praise to His name. Regardless of what I think or feel or want, God’s commandments are righteous – naturally, morally and legally just. God’s commands are perfect in their essence, their judgment and their sentence. There are no mishaps or errors. Each of God’s commands are truth.
Ro 7:12 So then, the Law is holy, and the commandment is holy and righteous and good.
Ps 19:8 The precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes.
What do we speak of – ourselves or God? Do we speak of God from a heart that is fully devoted to following His commands? With each word that comes from our mouth, we have an incredible opportunity to encourage others with the truths of God’s word. However this cannot be in our own strength. We need to rely upon God’s help. In the next verse of Psalm 119, the requests of a humble servant continue to be lifted to God.
Ps 119:173 Let Thy hand be ready to help me, for I have chosen Thy precepts.
Consider God’s hands. In the verse above, we are talking specifically about His open hands, indicating power and direction.
Ex 15:6 "Thy right hand, O LORD, is majestic in power, Thy right hand, O LORD, shatters the enemy.
Ps 17:7 Wondrously show Thy lovingkindness, O Savior of those who take refuge at Thy right hand from those who rise up [against them].
Ps 89:13 Thou hast a strong arm; Thy hand is mighty, Thy right hand is exalted.
Isa 48:13 "Surely My hand founded the earth, And My right hand spread out the heavens; when I call to them, they stand together.
Job 12:9-10 "Who among all these does not know that the hand of the LORD has done this, in whose hand is the life of every living thing, and the breath of all mankind?
Isa 41:10 ‘Do not fear, for I am with you; do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.'
Where do we look for power and protection in our life? Who is my defender? Do we rely upon ourselves?
Many homes today are equipped with alarm systems. They are used to warn of intruders, fire and carbon monoxide. As advanced as some of these systems are, technology is not perfect, and it fails. Or, we fail and walk in a house forgetting to turn the alarm off. These alarms also only warn of trouble coming from outside our bodies. Where is the protection of a soul? Who will defend trouble from within?
We are insufficient and weak. We need God’s help – His guidance and protection. He is ready and willing to hold us in the power of His hands. We see a similar request to Psalm 119:173 earlier in verse117.
Ps 119:117 Uphold me that I may be safe, that I may have regard for Thy statutes continually.
David chooses to follow God’s commands knowing that God alone is the one who will help him. David’s reliance is solely upon God’s work in his life. Do we choose to follow God? It is easy to recognize in the whole of Psalm 119 that David is committed to surrendering his entire life to God. His desire is to live for Him. This devotion is seen in his words and through his actions, in his desires and in his trust. Either we love God or we hate God. There is no ‘sort of’ in this relationship. God sent His Son to die for all sin. He has made complete atonement for us. Our response needs to be complete commitment to Him.
Recall the account of Mary and Martha when Jesus dined at their home. Mary was commended for recognizing the importance of being completely engaged in her devotion to Christ. Luke 10:42 but [only] a few things are necessary, really [only] one, for Mary has chosen the good part, which shall not be taken away from her." The first and foremost concern for our life is choosing to trust God by following His commands.
David’s example in Psalm 119 is to hope in God’s word (v. 81), and to consider God’s law as his delight (v. 92). It is obvious through his choices that God’s commands are more important to him than anything or anyone else. When we choose to follow God, we can count on His help. Matthew Poole’s Commentary says David has chosen God’s commands for his ‘guide and companion, and chief joy and treasure’.
Ps 119:30 I have chosen the faithful way; I have placed Thine ordinances [before me.]
Ps 119:111 I have inherited Thy testimonies forever, for they are the joy of my heart.
Joshua, after leading the Israelites to the Promised Land, just before he dies, gives the nation counsel to remember and follow the God who has chosen them and protected them through their exile.
Jos 24:15 "And if it is disagreeable in your sight to serve the LORD, choose for yourselves today whom you will serve: whether the gods which your fathers served which were beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you are living; but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD."
“For I have chosen, thy precepts. A good argument. A man may fitly ask help from God's hand when he has dedicated his own hand entirely to the obedience of the faith. "I have chosen thy precepts." His election was made, his mind was made up. In preference to all earthly rules and ways, in preference even to his own will, he had chosen to be obedient to the divine commands. Will not God help such a man in holy work and sacred service? Assuredly he will. If grace has given us the heart with which to will, it will also give us the hand with which to perform. Wherever, under the constraints of a divine call, we are engaged in any high and lofty enterprise, and feel it to be too much for our strength, we may always invoke the right hand of God in words like these.” Treasury of David [emphasis mine]
Our salvation is in Christ. Our sufficiency is in Christ. Our support is in Christ. None other can save us, none other can supply us and none other can protect us.
Ps 119:174 I long for Thy salvation, O LORD, and Thy law is my delight.
I desire Your deliverance, I desire the victory I have in You. To long for something is to desire it strongly or persistently. Do we foresee that day when we will be with Jesus? Do we yearn for our salvation in Him to be finally and fully realized?
David says his ‘soul languishes’ for God’s salvation (Ps 119:81); and he hopes for God’s salvation (Ps 119:166). The Psalmist’s hope is certain, not one of wishing but absolute. Accounts of waiting upon, longing for, hoping in, delighting in and rejoicing in God’s salvation and His word are seen throughout the Old and New Testaments. These are actions and attitudes for us to emulate in all the circumstances of our life as we hold on to the promise of what is to come.
Addressing God as Lord puts Him in the context of Creator. He is self-existing, He is eternal. Thus, our longing to be with Him is a certainty. God will always be and always has been. What a marvelous thought to consider that we have a relationship with Him now and have the guarantee of being in His presence forever!
What is your delight? Where is your enjoyment or pleasure found? David places his delight in God’s law throughout Psalm 119.
Ps 119:16 I shall delight in Thy statutes; I shall not forget Thy word.
Ps 119:24 Thy testimonies also are my delight; [They are] my counselors.
Ps 119:47 And I shall delight in Thy commandments, which I love.
Ps 119:77 May Thy compassion come to me that I may live, for Thy law is my delight.
Ps 119:111 I have inherited Thy testimonies forever, for they are the joy of my heart.
There is no question from the words above that the writer finds his greatest enjoyment and pleasures in God’s word. David longs for the day when he will be delivered from all the persecution and difficulties surrounding him. Yet, he remains focused on the pleasures of God’s truths, not allowing his circumstances to distract him. In one breath the Psalmist cries to God for help while in the same thought he is praising God for His goodness and care while he waits and trusts in His plan.
Those who have placed their trust completely in Christ’s death and resurrection are saved now and enjoy the pleasures of God’s law and His protection and guidance. One day, our salvation will be complete as we no longer are surrounded by sin and all its temptations. Imagine a place bereft of trouble and disorder; no disturbances to cause our eyes to look elsewhere. Our entire self will be focused on our glorious Savior and Lord!
Until that day we can take extreme delight in God’s blessings through His word and promises that He has so graciously bestowed on us. Focus on what is to come and frowns will turn to smiles. It is a true pleasure to be able to trust in the God of our salvation. Do you possess this kind of faith? – A faith so strong and certain that you can walk through even the greatest difficulty with a heart of peace and hope.
Imagine the most beautiful gift wrapped carefully in the most magnificent paper and tied with the most beautiful bow you have ever seen. The gift of Jesus is way beyond anything we can imagine or hope for yet it has been handed to us. Why? Because “God so loved the world”.
Spring has sprung! Listen and you’ll hear a variety of birds chirping. Smell and you’ll enjoy the fragrance of flowers opening up their new blossoms. Look around and almost everywhere you’ll see newness and freshness. Spring is a season of growth. Almost overnight it seems the grass needs to be cut and the plants and trees are filling in with leaves. I have wisteria on the west side of house. It has grown over the pergolas and right now is a sea of purple blossoms ushering in spring. There are fields on the south and west side of our neighborhood and an empty field directly behind our house – they are alive with bunnies! And butterflies are bees are busy fluttering and buzzing from one new bud to another. This is one of my favorite times of year.
Spring is the season which we celebrate Easter. It is so much more than bunnies and butterflies and egg coloring and egg hunts and baskets of chocolate! Newness of life – redeemed life – forgiveness at the cross, this is why we celebrate.
John 3:16 is a verse known to countless numbers of people. It is memorized in Sunday schools across America. “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life”. This verse is Easter.
God, because of His great love for humankind, solved an enormous problem for us. He created us in His likeness in order to have a relationship with us. However, through man, sin entered the world. In other words, we messed up. We regarded ourselves and our own desires as more important than serving and following our Creator. Sin formed a chasm between God who is perfect and man who is sinful. The punishment for sin is death – physical and eternal – separation from God for all time now and in the future.
Romans 3:23, another familiar verse heard and remembered by many individuals, says “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God”. Each one of us – all – have sin in our lives. Apart from the obvious wrongs we could easily list, even a bad thought or neglecting to do what we should, is missing the mark of perfection. Sin is defined in WordWeb as “estrangement from God” and “a transgression of God’s will”.
Because of God’s great love for us, He chose to solve our problem by giving His only Son – Jesus Christ – as payment for our sin. A perfect sacrifice is the only true and lasting atonement that put a final end to our debt. Jesus willingly gave His life in obedience to His Father so that we could live in heaven eternally and have a relationship with God now and forever.
Imagine the most beautiful gift wrapped carefully in the most magnificent paper and tied with the most beautiful bow you have ever seen. The gift of Jesus is way beyond anything we can imagine or hope for yet it has been handed to us. Why? Because “God so loved the world”.
Do you believe? What do you celebrate at Easter? Jesus’ suffering and death and resurrection for a world in need defines Easter. Jesus is alive and He offers us forgiveness and life forever with Him in heaven. Have you accepted the gift being offered to you? John 3:16 says, “That whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life”. It’s not just about bunnies and butterflies…
Ps 119:166-168 I hope for Thy salvation, O LORD, and do Thy commandments.167 My soul keeps Thy testimonies, and I love them exceedingly. 168 I keep Thy precepts and Thy testimonies, for all my ways are before Thee.
Look back a few verses in Psalm 119. David loves God’s word (v.163); this leads him to praise God (v.164); which produces peace through difficulties and no worries that he might stumble (v.165). There is hope and strength in God to keep going in a way that glorifies Him!
What is hope? It is the expectation that something will happen. Hope in the world is based on chance, like wishing for something. We can be optimistic and full of hope that something will turn out well but there are no guarantees. Hope in the biblical sense is absolute when placed in the hands of God. Hope is certain confidence in God!
How do we get hope? By faith – believing that God is who He says He is and will do what He claims. True faith is trusting in God’s plan alone for the future. Years ago I had a sign in my kitchen that said, “I placed all my eggs in one basket and gave the basket to God”. This is contrary to the world in which diversity is encouraged. Diversity is the idea that if one area fails you haven’t lost everything, there is still a chance for success in other areas.
The world doesn’t know God! God will not fail. Our best investment for our future is to place all our hope in God’s plan. This is the hope our Psalmist is speaking of in Psalm 119:166.
What does our Psalmist hope for? Salvation. God’s deliverance, His aid, His victory, His prosperity. In other words, all things that are good and for my welfare come from God. We can have hope for now – that God will continually guide and help us – and for the future of our salvation.
Re 22:14 Blessed are those who wash their robes, that they may have the right to the tree of life, and may enter by the gates into the city.
Ps 130:5-7 I wait for the LORD, my soul does wait, and in His word do I hope. 6 My soul [waits] for the Lord More than the watchmen for the morning; [Indeed, more than] the watchmen for the morning. 7 O Israel, hope in the LORD; for with the LORD there is lovingkindness, And with Him is abundant redemption.
What action is taken while hope is deferred? Obedience. The Psalmist says he follows God’s commandments.
Matthew Poole’s Commentary says, “Thus performing the condition which thou hast required, I justly and confidently hope for thy mercy promised”.
Ps 4:5 Offer the sacrifices of righteousness, and trust in the LORD.
Ps 24:3-5 Who may ascend into the hill of the LORD? And who may stand in His holy place? 4 He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who has not lifted up his soul to falsehood, and has not sworn deceitfully. 5 He shall receive a blessing from the LORD and righteousness from the God of his salvation.
First, we must have faith. Then we have certain hope of God’s salvation as we obey His commands. The gift of God’s salvation produces a desire to please Him and follow His words. As we consistently seek to do God’s will, we are assured of our relationship with Him – obedience is evidence of our certain salvation.
“This is the true posture in which all the servants of God should desire to be found — hoping in his mercy, and doing his commands. How easy were it to demonstrate the connection between the mental feeling here recognized, and the obedience with which it is here associated! It is the hope of salvation which is the great and pervading motive to holiness, and it is the consciousness of obedience to the will of God which strengthens our hope of interest in the divine mercy.” —John Morison, in The Treasury of David
Where is your hope? Are you absolutely certain of your salvation in Christ? Are you living in obedience to His commands?
Moving on to the next verse in our group, we are caused to look carefully at the description the Psalmist uses of himself in keeping God’s commands.
Ps 119:167 My soul keeps Thy testimonies, and I love them exceedingly.
My soul – that very part of us that makes us a being; our body, our heart, and our mind.
In other words, my spirit is in accordance with God’s plan. My desire lines up with God’s commands. If I obey in action but my thoughts and words are not supportive, I am a hypocrite. If I think right without taking action, I have not witnessed for God. If I use the words that sound pleasing to God but have no evidence in my life, my words are empty.
Picture the ingredients to make brownies on the kitchen counter. All items needed to make something gooey and delicious are available in separate bowls ready to work together. If I leave something out while mixing, the brownies will not be as yummy as they could be. Each part needs to be included to make the whole recipe complete. Also recognize that unless I make some effort to use the ingredients, they will remain on the counter and not be transformed.
When David says his soul keeps God’s testimonies, he is saying in effect that he is completely saturated in his desire to obey God. There is nothing he is holding back, and nothing he has kept out. He is immersed in God’s love.
Consider for a moment all the wonderful pleasures God has allowed in your life. Family, friends, a place to live, activities, involvement, and on and on. These blessings are for us to enjoy, however none of these things is more important than obeying God’s word. Is obedience to His commands first in your life?
Joh 15:9-11 “Just as the Father has loved Me, I have also loved you; abide in My love.10 “If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love; just as I have kept My Father’s commandments, and abide in His love.11 “These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may be in you, and [that] your joy may be made full.
We keep God’s testimonies because we love them! In Psalm 119:167, David says he loves God’s testimonies exceedingly. Our failures and imperfections are not the measure of our love for God. It is our soul, our desire to follow after all His commands, and our sincere efforts to live a life pleasing to Him in obedience.
“Let not our consciousness of daily failures make us shrink from this strong expression of confidence. It is alleged as an evidence of grace, not as a claim of merit, and therefore the most humble believer need not hesitate to adopt it as the expression of Christian sincerity before God. David aspired to no higher character than that of a poor sinner: but he was conscious of spirituality of obedience, “exceeding love” to the divine word, and an habitual walk under the eye of his God — the evidences of a heart (often mentioned in the Old Testament)” perfect with him.” —Charles Bridges, in The Treasury of David
In Psalm 119:167 we read that David loves God’s testimonies exceedingly. Think of the words intense, vehement and diligent. These three words are included in the Hebrew adjective describing this word. Consider something or someone that you love with such strength and energy that you know your love will persevere regardless of difficulties. This is the love described for us that David has toward God’s testimonies. His love for God is extreme and it shows in his life. What consideration can we make for ourselves from this example?
Moving on the Psalm 119:168, we read:
Ps 119:168 I keep Thy precepts and Thy testimonies, for all my ways are before Thee.
We have looked closely at the word keep several times beforehand in our study of Psalm 119. The definition of keep means to protect. The picture given is a hedge with thorns preserving what is valuable. We are to take utmost care to preserve God’s truth in its entirety. Our understanding of God’s commands and our representation of God’s commands speak of our carefulness to uphold the Word.
As we have moved through this section of scripture, we have seen the Psalmists confidence in God’s Word, his obedience toward God’s Word and now his careful attention to follow God’s Word. When you consider paying careful attention to something, it requires intent study, effort, and understanding. This certainly would work to David’s benefit but more important is his love for God and desire to honor Him.
“For all my ways are before Thee”. God sees all that we do and understands our motivation. God is omniscient. Every area of our life is known by Him. We need to pay attention that each decision we make, and every word we say or think, is in accordance with honoring God.
Picture a closet in your home. The areas we see may look organized and picked up. What about the corners, the areas way in the back recesses where things get stashed or are rarely used? It is easier to address what is directly in front of us. But those things that are hidden we can readily ignore. God sees all. Is it time for a thorough closet cleaning?
Pr 5:21 For the ways of a man are before the eyes of the LORD, and He watches all his paths.
Ps 139:3 Thou dost scrutinize my path and my lying down, and art intimately acquainted with all my ways.
Jer 23:24 “Can a man hide himself in hiding places, so I do not see him?” declares the LORD. “Do I not fill the heavens and the earth?” declares the LORD.
God sees our heart. Do we live accordingly? Does the certainty of our salvation cause us to rejoice in doing all that God commands? Does our love for God lead us to obey His Word? Does our understanding of God’s omniscience motivate us to carefully honor Him in all things?
Be encouraged! God knows we are unable to live effectively for Him on our own. As we call upon His strength and grace, we are able to honor Him with our lives.
2Th 2:16-17 Now may our Lord Jesus Christ Himself and God our Father, who has loved us and given us eternal comfort and good hope by grace, comfort and strengthen your hearts in every good work and word.
When what we love and consider beautiful and important is shattered and maligned, it causes a feeling of personal assault.
Looking back at Psalm 119:160-162, we read David’s description of God’s word.
God’s word is true in its entirety
God’s word will last forever
God’s word is to be revered
God’s word produces joy
When we contemplate the deep love our Psalmist has for God’s word, it is reasonable and even expected that he would hate everything that is opposite of the Truth. Strong adjectives are used in verse 163 as David describes his thoughts regarding lies. He uses the word falsehood as a description of that which deviates or perverts the truth – which is the law, God’s law.
Ps 119:163 I hate and despise falsehood, [But] I love Thy law.
Hate <sane’> to hate personally; enemy, foe, odious, to hate utterly
The words above are intense and full of aversion towards sin. Sin is regarded as the enemy or the foe, in direct opposition to truth. There is a personal element to this hatred. When what we love and consider beautiful and important is shattered and maligned, it causes a feeling of personal assault. The word odious is a bit more uncommon and strengthens the emotion of hate. It means unequivocally detestable according to WordWeb. The adjectives abominable and detestable are close synonyms.
Rarely, do we use the word despise in accordance with our likes and dislikes. Here in Psalm 119:163, hate and despise are used together to describe lying. Despising something is to loathe it, to morally detest it. These emotions are extremely negative and paint for us a strong picture of David’s feelings. What can we gather from the first part of Psalm 119:163? How are we to respond to sin? Primarily, how are we to think of lies and attacks and misrepresentation of the Truth?
It is often easier for us to focus on others behavior rather than our own. Rather than initiating a pointed finger outward, we would do well to first look within. David personally hates his own sin. This is the place for us to begin. The feelings our Psalmist has toward sin begins in his own heart, with his own transgression. Earlier in this Psalm, David addresses the need for his own sin to be removed and replaced with Truth. He recognizes that unfaithfulness to God is wrong and cannot be a part of life that honors the Word.
Ps 119:29 Remove the false way from me, and graciously grant me Thy law.
Matthew Henry’s Commentary on the Whole Bible says David “had a rooted antipathy to sin; he could not endure to think of it … Hypocrisy is lying; false doctrine is lying; breach of faith is lying… Every man hates to have a lie told him; but we should more hate telling a lie because by the former we only receive an affront from men, by the latter we give an affront to God”.
The feelings we have toward deceit is directly proportional to the sensitivity we have for God’s Word. If we are apathetic towards the Word, we will not be careful about lying. If we love God’s Word, lying will cause us deep personal feelings of grief because we offend God. As we grow in our love and knowledge of God, lying will cease from our lives.
Deceit is not just apparent in words we might use but also in actions. When our actions do not line up with our words this is called hypocrisy. Think of insincerity – pretending to have qualities or beliefs that you do not really have; in other words, falsehood. Especially in Psalm 119:163 sin is related to going against what is believed and worshipped.
Look again at the Psalmist’s personal struggle with sin and sorrow addressed in verses 25-29 of this same chapter. He recognized a need to ask God to clean up his own heart, to keep his soul from sin. Always, God is the one transforming us. I can desire to separate from sin but I am unable to peel away its hold on me without God’s grace.
Ps 119:25-29 My soul cleaves to the dust; Revive me according to Thy word. 26 I have told of my ways, and Thou hast answered me; teach me Thy statutes. 27 Make me understand the way of Thy precepts, so I will meditate on Thy wonders. 28 My soul weeps because of grief; strengthen me according to Thy word. 29 Remove the false way from me, and graciously grant me Thy law.
As we learn to focus more on the truths in God’s word, our understanding of God’s direction for us will increase. As our understanding increases, our recognition of sin is magnified. And our hate of falsehood strengthens.
Ps 119:104 From Thy precepts I get understanding; therefore I hate every false way.
Ps 119:113 I hate those who are double-minded, but I love Thy law.
Think back several years ago to when God first opened your eyes to His Truth. It is likely that what you believed acceptable then is no longer seen as profitable in your life now. As I read and study God’s Word, He shows me areas of incorrect thinking. Sin is brought to the forefront of my mind and He allows me to recognize where I am struggling. I hate sin because God hates sin. I desire to address it rather than accept it in my life. God is at work in each of His children. Do we recognize His care for us? Following are several more scriptures that address sin.
Pr 6:16-19 There are six things which the LORD hates, Yes, seven which are an abomination to Him: Haughty eyes, a lying tongue, And hands that shed innocent blood, Pr 6:18 A heart that devises wicked plans, Feet that run rapidly to evil, A false witness [who] utters lies, And one who spreads strife among brothers.
Ro 12:9 Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil; cling to what is good.
Ps 36:1-4 (For the choir director. [A Psalm] of David the servant of the LORD.) Transgression speaks to the ungodly within his heart; there is no fear of God before his eyes. For it flatters him in his [own] eyes, concerning the discovery of his iniquity [and] the hatred [of it.] The words of his mouth are wickedness and deceit; He has ceased to be wise [and] to do good. He plans wickedness upon his bed; He sets himself on a path that is not good; He does not despise evil.
Ps 97:10 Hate evil, you who love the LORD, Who preserves the souls of His godly ones; He delivers them from the hand of the wicked.
Zec 8:16 'These are the things which you should do: speak the truth to one another; judge with truth and judgment for peace in your gates.
David loves God’s Word and hates man’s deceit. The Word and deceit do not agree with each other; truth and lies, and love and hate are not compatible. Look around. Is the world in harmony?
“Falsehood in doctrine, in life, or in speech, falsehood in any form or shape, had become utterly detestable to the Psalmist….He does not, however, alone refer to falsehood in conversation; he evidently intends perversity in faith and teaching. He set down all opposition to the God of truth as lying, and then he turned his whole soul against it in the most intense form of indignation. Godly men should detest false doctrine even as they abhor a lie.” Treasury of David
Ps 119:164 Seven times a day I praise Thee, Because of Thy righteous ordinances.
The verse above describes action taken by our Psalmist and the affect God’s Word has on his life. David often and regularly offers praise to God because He is righteous. Adam Clarke’s Commentary says that seven was a number expressing perfection and completion in the Hebrew culture. It was “often used to signify many, or an indefinite number”. The idea is we can never praise God enough! Every day and often during each day, our sights should be on God’s goodness – who He is, what He has done and what He will do. The word praise in Psalm 119:164 means to boast, to celebrate, or to give glory to God.
Ps 119:47-48 And I shall delight in Thy commandments, which I love. And I shall lift up my hands to Thy commandments, which I love; and I will meditate on Thy statutes.
Ps 34:1-2 ([A Psalm] of David when he feigned madness before Abimelech, who drove him) (away and he departed.) I will bless the LORD at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul shall make its boast in the LORD; the humble shall hear it and rejoice.
Consider the people or things we love. How often do we take notice of them? Those we are especially affectionate toward permeate our thoughts. Do we frequent praise upon God as we should? This isn’t a ‘check-the-box’ seven times a day exercise. It is a lifestyle of praise.
Do we boast about God? Are we excited to speak of His promises? Do we share what He is doing in our life?
A celebration is something filled with joy. Do we celebrate who we are in Christ? Do we celebrate the gift we have been given and the future promised?
How are we bringing glory to God this very moment? How can we give glory to God throughout our day?
Look again at Psalm 119:164. Our Psalmist writes that he praises God “because of Thy righteous ordinances”. God is naturally right, morally right and legally right in His very manner and in all His deeds. Even when circumstances are difficult or unclear, we should persevere in our gratitude and praise of God. Then, in the midst of hardship, we will find joy – just as David’s example reads. God often uses affliction to strengthen our trust in Him.
Moving on to the next verse in Psalm 119, we see that it is a privilege and honor to rest in the hands of a living God! In addition to the blessing of peace through all of life’s challenges, we are assured that nothing will become a stumbling block to us, neither will we become a stumbling block to others.
Ps 119:165 Those who love Thy law have great peace, And nothing causes them to stumble.
Consider this: when we lose your patience, get discouraged, or seem frazzled, it is always because we have allowed circumstances or individuals to become a larger focus than God’s truth. When our focus is re-centered where it belongs, our actions are appropriate and pleasing to God. We easily forget who is in control as we try on our own to make things happen or convince someone of the truth.
Picture this: As our love for God’s word grows, we have peace available to us even as we walk down a path full of potholes. It is as if the dips in the road have been highlighted for us so that we don’t step in them and stumble. Fear is replaced by courage and sorrow turns into hope. When we do misstep and turn an ankle – as inevitably we will – God is always right there to carry us as we continue.
When a child is learning to ride a two-wheel bike, or roller-skates are put on for the first time, what scene do you picture? Typically, a parent or caring adult is by their side, giving them support and encouragement. A helmet and knee guards may afford extra protection. Take away this support, encouragement and protection and we are left exposed and in danger as fear paralyzes us. God’s word says nothing will cause those who love His law to stumble. Nothing!
There will be no stumbling block for us and our actions will not become a stumbling block for others. But, we do fail. We do stumble. Is it because the truths in the Word are insufficient or intermittent? No, we are. The solution is to love God’s Word; to look to Him for strength, to look to Him for comfort, and to trust in His plan and protection.
The Word says there is peace in pursuing righteousness.
Isa 32:17 And the work of righteousness will be peace, and the service of righteousness, quietness and confidence forever.
Joh 14:27 "Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives, do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful.
Php 4:7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, shall guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Stumbling blocks can appear in different forms. Perhaps there are outside temptations that draw our focus from God. When others disapprove of our beliefs we may feel attacked. We may be convicted of sin on the inside and choose to walk away from the truth. God’s love takes into consideration every stumbling block in our path and He will clear our course to honor Himself.
We cannot be perfect! Notice Psalm 119:165 does not address those who perfectly keep the law. Rather, it addresses those who love the law. We are to neither give offense to others nor take offense from others. We are to take care to not offend God’s law. We are to take delight in the peace afforded by God’s love.
Ps 119:163-165 I hate and despise falsehood, [But] I love Thy law. Seven times a day I praise Thee, Because of Thy righteous ordinances. Those who love Thy law have great peace, and nothing causes them to stumble.
How will you apply this section of scripture to your personal life?
Rather than slowing down and getting pushed off course by debris, we can navigate through the rough patches of life gaining more confidence and trust in our Savior’s lead.
My three-year-old granddaughter woke up a few mornings ago announcing it was race day. It was! Her dad, my son, found a race locally while we were visiting. This was her first real ‘race’, really more like a 50 yard dash. I have a grandson who ‘ran’ his first race before he was three. Both of their dads run, so this is a natural progression in their children’s lives. Race day was also my daughter’s birthday and the anniversary of her delivery of a special little boy into heaven. My emotions are pieced together like a quilt. Sorrow, anticipation, gratitude, and excitement meld to form a picture of life’s course.
I do not run – except perhaps after a grandchild! But we are all in a race which we will finish. The question is how we will finish. I like to picture a ball that is growing in momentum and expanding as it travels. Rather than slowing down and getting pushed off course by debris, we can navigate through the rough patches of life gaining more confidence and trust in our Savior’s lead. Sometimes the push to keep going is extremely difficult, yet we are to run with endurance, desiring to do our best. Even when it is hard we are to remain joyful for our future. Staying on course can be a challenge. Distractions are abundant and often there are unexpected turns in our path. When there is reason for celebration, our focus needs to remain heavenward. When sorrow threatens to overwhelm us, we need to continue to walk forward with our Savior. The key is to carry on with endurance the path set before us, keeping our sight on the prize – eternity with Jesus.
1Co 9:24 Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but [only] one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win.
Php 2:14-16 Do all things without grumbling or disputing; that you may prove yourselves to be blameless and innocent, children of God above reproach in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you appear as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I may have cause to glory because I did not run in vain nor toil in vain.
Php 3:14 I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.
Heb 12:1-2 Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance, and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
The day before my granddaughter’s first race and my daughter’s birthday a memorial service was held for my friend’s husband who unexpectedly died after several complications during a scheduled procedure. He has finished his race and now finds rest in the arms of his Savior. Sorrow may slow us down but the course continues. Anticipation for the future that God has planned keeps us going. Gratitude for family and friends and the myriad of blessings that are poured upon us, remind us of a greater purpose. As we recognize God’s hand in our lives, we should be encouraged and become even more excited for the future.
Every day is race day. Like my granddaughter, wake up excited for the possibilities! Run with endurance. Celebrate the success when you run well. Appreciate the times that seem easy. Learn to trust more when the effort required seems impossible. Keep racing, Jesus is waiting at the finish line.
The God who has shown infinite skill and wisdom in making the heavens, the atmosphere, and all the skies contain and even the air we breathe, is merciful towards us. Not just momentarily, but always, even while we are undeserving.
‘His lovingkindness is everlasting’ is repeated in each of the twenty-six verses in Psalm 136. We have an example to take notice of God’s mercy in all things and at all times. We have an encouragement and reminder that God’s compassions to His children are unceasing. When our hope and comfort is placed in God, we are secure.
Ps 136:4 To Him who alone does great wonders, For His lovingkindness is everlasting;
Who alone deserves our praise? Why?
God is the only One worthy of praise. In this verse, the concentration is on what He has done. Think of His miracles. God is the source of amazing and wonderful supernatural events. A miracle [veoseh niphlaoth] is the inversion, or suspension, or destruction of the laws of nature. “Thou art the Worker of miracles. This thou hast done in numerous instances, and thereby showed thy infinite power and wisdom.” Adam Clarke’s Commentary
Among everything we see, what comes to mind is the miracle of calling us His children. Who else is able to change a heart from complete depravity and selfishness to acknowledge a need for God and desire to live for Him?
Ps 72:18 Blessed be the LORD God, the God of Israel, Who alone works wonders.
Consider. Anything and all that man is able to accomplish is only because of God. We exist because of God. We breathe because of God. We walk and talk because of God. And on and on. Without God’s help, we are nothing and we can do nothing.
God has always existed and has created all things without the help of anyone or anything.
God is to be praised because of His nature – He is good (Ps 136:1), because He is God (Ps 136:2), because He is Lord (Ps 136:3), and because of His works (Ps 136:4).
Ps 86:10 For Thou art great and doest wondrous deeds; Thou alone art God.
Ex 15:11 "Who is like Thee among the gods, O LORD? Who is like Thee, majestic in holiness, Awesome in praises, working wonders?
Job 5:8-9 "But as for me, I would seek God, and I would place my cause before God; 9 Who does great and unsearchable things, Wonders without number.
Re 15:3 And they *sang the song of Moses the bond-servant of God and the song of the Lamb, saying, "Great and marvelous are Thy works, O Lord God, the Almighty; Righteous and true are Thy ways, Thou King of the nations.
Ps 72:17-19 May his name endure forever; May his name increase as long as the sun [shines]; and let [men] bless themselves by him; Let all nations call him blessed. 18 Blessed be the LORD God, the God of Israel, Who alone works wonders. 19 And blessed be His glorious name forever; and may the whole earth be filled with His glory. Amen, and Amen.
“All the works of his unrivalled skill are wrought by him alone and unaided, and to him, therefore, must be undivided honour … The Lord causes us often to sit down in amazement as we see what his mercy has wrought out and prepared for us: "wonders of grace to God belong", yea, great wonders and unsearchable. Oh the depth! Glory be to his name world without end!” Treasury of David
God is excellent, God is perfection, God is infinitely good and He chooses to shower His mercy upon His creation. For His lovingkindness is everlasting.
Ps 136:5 To Him who made the heavens with skill, For His lovingkindness is everlasting;
In the previous verse, the great wonders or miracles of God were addressed. The scope of God’s creation is now enlarged to the celestial heavens. Take a moment to consider a butterfly or a tiny little insect. It is a marvel to study the color and texture and minute details and workings of such small things. We see the hand of God all around us. We also see God’s hand in the heavens above us. The moon shines forth at night and determines the tides; the sun warms our day.
It is true that man has made many marvelous structures and discoveries. Buildings have become increasingly complex in their design and size, and new innovation and understanding of how our physical bodies work have led to several breakthroughs in fighting disease. The world we live in continues to move forward at increasing speed in the area of technology. Yet, with all this in mind, only God has created something from nothing. Only God has His imprint on the heavens and the earth we call home.
Ge 1:1 In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.
Pr 3:19 The LORD by wisdom founded the earth; by understanding He established the heavens.
Jer 51:15 [It is] He who made the earth by His power, Who established the world by His wisdom, and by His understanding He stretched out the heavens.
The word skill in Psalm 136:5 is translated for us as wisdom, intelligence and understanding. God purposed the heavens. Each planetary object has been placed in its exact place according to our Great Creator. God’s wisdom, intelligence and understanding far outweighs the most genius of humankind.
“In the contrivance of the celestial bodies--in their specific gravities, relations, connections, influences on each other, revolutions, etc.; and in the wonderful adaptation of the atmosphere for the purposes of refracting the light, forming rain, dew, snow, etc., are exhibited the most astonishing displays of the Divine wisdom.” The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge
“We find that God has built the heavens in wisdom, to declare his glory, and to show forth his handiwork. There are no iron tracks, with bars and bolts, to hold the planets in their orbits. Freely in space they move, ever changing, but never changed; poised and balancing; swaying and swayed; disturbing and disturbed, onward they fly, fulfilling with unerring certainty their mighty cycles. The entire system forms one grand complicated piece of celestial machinery; circle within circle, wheel within wheel, cycle within cycle; revolutions go swift as to be completed in a few hours; movements so slow, that their mighty periods are only counted by millions of years.” --From "The Orbs of Heaven", 1859.
For His lovingkindness is everlasting.
Consider. The God who has shown infinite skill and wisdom in making the heavens, the atmosphere, and all the skies contain and even the air we breathe, is merciful towards us. Not just momentarily, but always, even while we are undeserving.
“Then, I infer, that if the mercy which visits earth is from the same Jehovah who built that heaven and filled it with glory, there must be in his mercy something of the same "understanding" or "wisdom." It is wise, prudent mercy; not rashly given forth; and it is the mercy of him whose love has filled that heaven with bliss. The same architect, the same skill, the same love!” --Andrew A. Bonar.
Ps 136:6 To Him who spread out the earth above the waters, For His lovingkindness is everlasting;
How big is the earth? According to NASA the radius at the equator is 3,963 miles. The circumference is just over 24,000 miles; the earth’s mass is 6.6 sextillion tons and its volume is about 260 billion cubic miles. The total surface area is about 197 million square miles. Mount Everest is the highest place on Earth above sea level at 29,028 feet.
How big is God? Psalm 136:6 says He ‘spread out the earth above the waters’! We cannot fathom how big God is, His greatness is immeasurable. His creation surrounds us. We are unable to fully comprehend God’s glory. Consider the smallest grain of sand and then look upward to the star filled sky.
Jer 10:12 [It is] He who made the earth by His power, Who established the world by His wisdom; and by His understanding He has stretched out the heavens.
Ps 104:2-3 Covering Thyself with light as with a cloak, stretching out heaven like a [tent] curtain. 3 He lays the beams of His upper chambers in the waters; He makes the clouds His chariot; He walks upon the wings of the wind;
God, in all His greatness and glory, chose to bless mankind.
“O thou Creator of all things, we magnify the mercy which shines in all thy handiworks.” Spurgeon’s Devotional Commentary
Praise God! His mercy endures forever!
One of the greatest gifts we can give to those we love is our personal pursuit of growing in our love for God, seeking to understand Him, and desiring to serve Him through others.
Valentine’s Day. The history behind this day seems a bit mysterious. Ranging from honoring a saint named Valentine to a medieval knight with the same name, it has become a day that is observed across the Americas and into Canada and beyond. Traditionally, a small note of affection was written – the first dated in the 1700’s and now settled in a museum. Love is the modern message of Valentine’s Day.
Celebrating love is a good thing! Love between family and friends and spouses is encouraged and valued. Love, however, in our human limitations is largely based upon feeling and often grows weary and fleeting. The true source of love is God. In Him, love is perfected. The love of God is greater than any human love. Celebrate the love that caused a crimson stain to flow out for the forgiveness of sin. True love is beheld in our Savior.
One of the greatest gifts we can give to those we love is our personal pursuit of growing in our love for God, seeking to understand Him, and desiring to serve Him through others. The individuals in our lives will be affected as we are changed more into His likeness. Loving God is the key to loving others well.
De 6:3a you should listen and be careful to do [it],
De 6:5 "And you shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might.
The phrase in Deuteronomy 6:3 above comes from the word shamar which is translated to ‘observe’ in the KJV. What do you think of when you read the word ‘observe’? This is so much more than just seeing with our eyes. It is paying close attention to something. The NAS translation of this verse spells it out for us – you should listen and be careful to do it!
The idea of guarding or protecting is used in the Strong’s Concordance translation for this word. It is a quest to take heed of information, to attend to the understanding given you, and to regard it carefully. All this is marked with action. The relationship we have with God through Jesus is not passive. It is a union which requires our attention. Salvation is not something that has just happened to us, it has been secured for us through Jesus’ death and resurrection. What is our response? A heart of gratitude will lead us to obedience and service.
And you shall love the LORD your God
What does it mean to love God?
We are to have a tender affection for God. This is a love that moves us to action because of who He is. It is a love that is an entire giving of self. The love we have for God needs to be complete in our loyalty. He is not amongst the list of many things we enjoy or pursue – God is who we live for, the head, at the top. Before family, friends, careers, pursuits and anything else you may think of.
Mt 10:37 "He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me; and he who loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me.
“For, to own him to be the only God, the author of our being and of all things, doth necessarily include in it a love of him above all things whatsoever, which requires us to love him, who hath made them so lovely. This is another principle or spring of obedience, inseparable from the fear of God before mentioned: which doth not drive us away from him, but draws us to him; being such a reverence towards him as children have to their kind parents, which is ever mixed with love to them. Patrick/Lowth/Whitby/Lowman Commentary
What is the basis of this love? Think upon who He is and what He has done for you. His mercy keeps those who believe in Him from an eternal destiny of pain and separation from Truth. His grace pours lavish blessings, all undeserved, on those who call upon His name. His patience is unmatched as He desires all to be saved. Everything that is true and good and beautiful and worthy comes from Him. We are the recipients of unmerited favor from God.
2Pe 3:9 The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance.
Ex 34:6 Then the LORD passed by in front of him and proclaimed, "The LORD, the LORD God, compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in lovingkindness and truth;
Who is ‘the LORD your God’?
The LORD – Jehovah – the self-Existent or Eternal
God – Elohiym – the supreme God, God Almighty
De 10:17 "For the LORD your God is the God of gods and the Lord of lords, the great, the mighty, and the awesome God who does not show partiality, nor take a bribe.
De 10:20 "You shall fear the LORD your God; you shall serve Him and cling to Him, and you shall swear by His name.
Even a small understanding of who God is must lead us to love and serve Him. The fear of God is born out of reverence for who He is and what He has done and can do. He is Lord of lords and God of gods, there is no higher, there is no greater.
Consider. The Supreme God of all creation has, in His mercy, reached down and touched your heart to see Him with unveiled eyes. Amazing!
With all your heart.
Consider. We are only able to love God with all our heart because He has changed us. The heart without regeneration is wicked (Genesis 8:21). This truth should fill our hearts with praise for what He has done! The magnitude of our salvation is truly the catalyst for loving God with all our ‘new’ heart!
Eze 36:26 "Moreover, I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; and I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh.
Ps 51:10 Create in me a clean heart, O God, And renew a steadfast spirit within me.
1Jo 3:18 Little children, let us not love with word or with tongue, but in deed and truth.
Consider. Either our heart is changed by God or it is hardened by our rejection of Him. Easton’s Bible Dictionary says this of a hardened heart. "Hardness of heart evidences itself by light views of sin; partial acknowledgment and confession of it; pride and conceit; ingratitude; unconcern about the word and ordinances of God; inattention to divine providences; stifling convictions of conscience; shunning reproof; presumption, and general ignorance of divine things."
Are you moved toward obedience? In our heart resides the purpose of all our actions, our will and choices, and our decisions and intentions. Do we purpose to love God? If so, recognize your changed heart is because of His love and praise God and love Him with all your heart!
1Jo 4:19 We love, because He first loved us.
We make decisions all the time. Is it our conscious choice and intention to purpose to follow God in all things? The answer to this question comes from our heart.
Loving God with all our heart is being entirely devoted to Him. Our will is set on loving Him through our obedience to His commands. This means even when our feelings do not align with what we ought to do, we are able to choose that which is honoring to God above our own fleshly desires. All our affections are centered on God. This love of God is a sincere devotion that easily lends itself to obedience in all things. It is born out of reverence for who He is.
“…the more we love him, the more we shall regard his authority, reverence his majesty, fear to offend or dishonour him, and be careful to render unto him that worship which he requires.—Human laws can only take cognizance of the outward conduct; but the law of the heart-searching God requires LOVE, the seat of which is in the inmost soul. That love comprises a supreme valuation of his infinite excellency and amiableness; an entire desire. of the knowledge and enjoyment of him as our felicity; cordial delight in contemplating his manifested glories, and in worshipping and obeying him; lively gratitude for all his innumerable and invaluable mercies; zeal for his glory, and an ardent desire that all our fellow-creatures, in conjunction with us, may thus know, love, worship, obey, and serve him.” De 6:5 Thomas Scott
1Jo 5:3 For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments; and His commandments are not burdensome.
With all your soul. Our soul, it is who we are, what makes us, us. It is my very breath, my desires, my heart, my life. It’s what makes me an individual, different from anyone else. We are to love God with our warmest affection. This affection however is not based on our feelings but rather on His Truth. We can define our heart. It is a viable organ with shape and has direct consequence for our functioning body. We also have a good understanding of our mind or at least the brain that seems to be the center of our intellectual thoughts. Even our might or strength is tangible to our understanding. But our soul is different. It is immaterial but essential. WordWeb says it is the ‘actuating cause of an individual life. What does it look like? Where is it located? It is that part of us that is God breathed, that gives us life. Our very soul is a mystery that God alone understands. To love God with all my soul must come from Him. The desire comes from Him. The ability comes from Him.
In the book of Mark and Luke, we see the command in Deuteronomy repeated.
Mr 12:30 AND YOU SHALL LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD WITH ALL YOUR HEART, AND WITH ALL YOUR SOUL, AND WITH ALL YOUR MIND, AND WITH ALL YOUR STRENGTH.'
Lu 10:27 And he answered and said, "YOU SHALL LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD WITH ALL YOUR HEART, AND WITH ALL YOUR SOUL, AND WITH ALL YOUR STRENGTH, AND WITH ALL YOUR MIND; AND YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF."
Philip Doddridge New Testament Notes says this: “thou shalt unite all the faculties of thy soul to render him the most intelligent and sincere, the most affectionate and resolute service.”
Our soul is the part of us that lives on, it is immortal. It will return to the Creator either in glory or condemned. Even when our physical body finally fails, our soul continues.
Ec 12:7 then the dust will return to the earth as it was, and the spirit will return to God who gave it.
Mt 10:28 And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.
2Co 4:16 Therefore we do not lose heart, but though our outer man is decaying, yet our inner man is being renewed day by day.
We are to love God with all our heart – our will, our purpose; we are to love God with all our soul – our very being, the center of our existence; and we are to love God with all our might.
With all your might.
Might. What a great word! Read what is included in the definition from Strong’s: properly, vehemently, wholly, speedily; diligently, exceedingly, greatly, louder and louder, mightily, quickly, utterly, very well.
Wow. Where do we even start! We are to love God with so much fervor that we are inept to truly explain what this means let alone what it looks like. Each description above carries its own weight of urgency and entirety. I think it is fair to say we are to be sold out to God! Jumping in with two feet, all in or nothing. Several questions come to mind as I contemplate the enormity of loving God with all my might.
In all our decisions do we seek God entirely, in each aspect of every point?
Are we totally engaged in our desires to please Him alone, irrespective of our own pleasures?
Is our devotion to God growing as each layer of sin is peeled away and we see Him more clearly?
Is our focus on this world and its offerings or on God’s eternal plan?
We are to love God properly. Consider who He is. The fear of God goes hand in hand with the idea of loving Him properly. It is His right to receive our entire love and our reverent love. We are drawn closer to God when we love Him in the right manner. None of our approach to the living God is based on outside looks or certain buildings or following man-made rules or rituals. It is our heart that perceives God as He truly is – a loving God who sacrificed all for the children He loves, and a just God who will punish the guilty. For the believer, there is a fear in knowing that God is all powerful. Yet this power is the same that protects those who draw near to Him. It is wonderful and chilling all at the same time! This fear of God produces a desire to come under His protection and to share His truths with those who do not believe. For those who have rejected God, the fear of Him will drive them away. And rightfully so, for His wrath will be complete towards those who refuse to accept the sacrifice of His Son.
De 10:20 "You shall fear the LORD your God; you shall serve Him and cling to Him, and you shall swear by His name.
Look at the words speedily and quickly used in the definition of might. The opposite of procrastination, we are to respond to God immediately. How often do we stop and weigh the ‘cost’ of serving another? What might we have to give up or change? When there is a need present and we are able to help, we need to jump!
Consider the same words when it comes to temptation. How quickly do we flee? Or do we hang around just a bit thinking we are strong enough on our own to avoid sin?
Several other applications come to mind. Do we speedily turn to God in times of trouble, and in times of rejoicing?
We are to love God with all the will in our heart, with all the affection in our soul, with all the strength we have to serve. God will accomplish His work in our lives as we trust in Him. Love God, love what He has done, love what He is doing and love what the future holds in His presence.
Joh 3:16 "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life.
“Salvation! What music is there in that word. Music that never tires, but is always new, that always rouses yet always rests us! It holds in itself all that our hearts would say. It is sweet rigour to us in the morning, and in the evening it is contented peace. It is a song that is always singing itself deep down in the delighted soul.”
Psalm 119:155-156
Ps 119:153-156 Look upon my affliction and rescue me, for I do not forget Thy law. 154 Plead my cause and redeem me; revive me according to Thy word. 155 Salvation is far from the wicked, for they do not seek Thy statutes. 156 Great are Thy mercies, O LORD; revive me according to Thine ordinances.
In this twentieth section of Psalm 119, David is continuing to show us his dependence upon God for His mercies. The Psalmist’s example is to draw towards God in difficulties. There is a clear difference between his relationship with God and those who do not seek to follow God. David refers to them as wicked in verse 155, then he goes back to the blessings he has because of God’s tender love followed by a request to live accordingly.
Truth: Salvation is far from the wicked.
Salvation means deliverance from and victory over something. Salvation is an impossibility for those who choose to live in sin. The Psalmist distinguishes himself from this group by clearly stating his desire for God in the previous verses. There is a comparison between the recognition of a need for God’s word and the rejection of God’s word.
Salvation is ‘far’ or remote from the wicked. It is distant or removed entirely. Consider for a moment what this truly means. There is no hope, there is no deliverance, and there is no redemption. There is no salvation for those who do not follow God. Period.
How do we know those who are wicked? They do not seek God! There is no desire for righteousness. What is the warning for us? Is it possible to use or say the ‘right’ words without being saved? Look at the verb used in the second part of verse 155.
Seek. This is an action meaning to tread or frequent something; in pursuit or search; specifically to worship, to ask, to diligently inquire. Are we seeking God? Do we desire righteousness – in all things? (Versus just the circumstances that we agree with or fit into our plans.) This action is evidence of our salvation!
We are encouraged, even when circumstances are difficult, to continue to follow after the Truth because this is proof of our relationship with God. In other words we say, ‘Yes, this is hard, but in God’s mercy we can and will continue to move forward’. Because He loves us and has caused us to love and follow Him.
Have we been delivered or are we doomed?
Ps 10:4 The wicked, in the haughtiness of his countenance, does not seek [Him.] All his thoughts are, "There is no God."
Job 21:14-15 "And they say to God, 'Depart from us! We do not even desire the knowledge of Thy ways. 15 'Who is the Almighty, that we should serve Him, and what would we gain if we entreat Him?'
Pr 1:7 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge; Fools despise wisdom and instruction.
Remember the account of the rich man and poor man in Luke Chapter Sixteen. The rich man died having no need of God. His fate is recorded beginning in verse 23. "And in Hades he lifted up his eyes, being in torment, and *saw Abraham far away, and Lazarus in his bosom. ”And he cried out and said, 'Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water and cool off my tongue; for I am in agony in this flame.'
If we are saved, we will love God’s word. We will seek His Truths, we will endeavor to obey His statutes.
The Treasury of David on Ver. 155 says – “Salvation! What music is there in that word. Music that never tires, but is always new, that always rouses yet always rests us! It holds in itself all that our hearts would say. It is sweet rigour to us in the morning, and in the evening it is contented peace. It is a song that is always singing itself deep down in the delighted soul. Angelic ears are ravished by it up in heaven; and our Eternal Father himself listens to it with adorable complacency. It is sweet even to him out of whose mind is the music of a thousand worlds. To be saved! What is it to be saved in the fullest and utmost meaning? Who can tell? Eye hath not seen, nor car heard. It is a rescue, and from such a shipwreck! It is a rest, and in such an unimaginable home! It is to lie down for ever in the bosom of God, in an endless rapture of insatiable contentment”. --Frederick William Faber, 1853.
Truth: Salvation is near to those who seek God.
Le 18:5 'So you shall keep My statutes and My judgments, by which a man may live if he does them; I am the LORD.
Salvation leads to obedience. Obedience proves our salvation. The desire to obey speaks of our testimony to Christ – for our good and His glory.
When we seek God’s truths, in His grace we are blessed with His mercy. David writes this truth in the next verse of Psalm 119.
Ps 119:156 Great are Thy mercies, O LORD; revive me according to Thine ordinances.
When we think of something being great, the words grand or abundant come to mind.
Consider. God’s mercy is great towards the most wretched sinner if they come before Him with a heart desiring His deliverance. There is nothing that will keep us from His blessings other than our own denial of Him. When we choose self or the world over God, we reject His love and sacrifice for us.
God’s mercies towards His children are given in abundance! They are more than sufficient, they exceed what we can imagine. A life as God’s child means we have unending compassion extended towards us. There is never a time when we can truly say that no one understands or cares. God always understands perfectly and cares about each of His children. He is not removed from our concerns or struggles or disappointments. Do we seek and accept the compassion God desires to give?
Our Psalmist understood firsthand the mercies of God in his life. David turned his eyes from God and toward sin for a moment. His sin was exposed and when he was confronted by Nathan, he sought God’s forgiveness.
Ps 51:1 (For the choir director. A Psalm of David, when Nathan the prophet came to him,) (after he had gone in to Bathsheba.) Be gracious to me, O God, according to Thy lovingkindness; According to the greatness of Thy compassion blot out my transgressions.
Ps 86:5 For Thou, Lord, art good, and ready to forgive, and abundant in lovingkindness to all who call upon Thee.
Ps 86:13 For Thy lovingkindness toward me is great, And Thou hast delivered my soul from the depths of Sheol.
Isaiah encouraged the nation of Israel to turn towards God and seek His mercy. They had chosen to live in sin and reject God, yet, the prophet reminded them of God’s great forgiveness if they would only seek Him.
Isa 55:7 Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; and let him return to the LORD, And He will have compassion on him; And to our God, For He will abundantly pardon.
Isa 63:7 I shall make mention of the lovingkindnesses of the LORD, the praises of the LORD, According to all that the LORD has granted us, And the great goodness toward the house of Israel, Which He has granted them according to His compassion, And according to the multitude of His lovingkindnesses.
“Great are thy tender mercies, O LORD. Here the Psalmist pleads the largeness of God's mercy, the immensity of his tender love; yea, he speaks of mercies -- mercies many, mercies tender, mercies great;” Treasury of David
The KJV reads ‘Great are thy tender mercies’. They are not only great in every imaginable way, they are also tender. God is sympathetic towards our struggles and His care for us is gentle – not quick to anger but quick to forgive.
This certainly speaks of a personal intimate relationship. Our God is not removed from our concerns and weakness and sorrows; instead, He is with us through every step as we seek to follow His ways.
Again, we see a request from David asking God to revive him ‘according to Thine ordinances’. We looked at the word ‘revive’ in Psalm 119:149 earlier in this study. When someone needs to be revived they need some kind of intervention. Often, we may use this word in connection to bringing someone back to life from an unconscious state.
We certainly need to be brought to life when you think of our sin nature!
Ro 6:6,11 knowing this, that our old self was crucified with [Him,] that our body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin; 11 Even so consider yourselves to be dead to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus.
Matthew Henry’s Commentary says, “Those that are delivered from the sinner’s doom are bound for ever to own the greatness of God’s mercies which delivered them”.
With God’s great mercy comes His abundant grace to live according to His word.
Ps 119:132 Turn to me and be gracious to me, After Thy manner with those who love Thy name.
God acts in accordance to His word. Great are His mercies given to those who seek Him.
Is our prayer one of admiration for God’s tender compassions towards us and one of request to live for Him according to His word?
‘I’m struggling Lord, help me, I want to please You’. How often have you thought or spoken a similar prayer? … God is there, He is always at hand to help and support in time of need. He already knows our situation and He understands circumstances better than we do!
1
The Hebrew letter ‘Resh’ in verse 153 begins the Twentieth Division in Psalm 119.
Ps 119:153 Look upon my affliction and rescue me, for I do not forget Thy law.
In our own prayer to God, these words might read, ‘I’m struggling Lord, help me, I want to please You’. How often have you thought or spoken a similar prayer? You can picture David, spent and discouraged as he is experiencing trouble or danger all around. The word for affliction can mean depression or misery. This is a state where our Psalmist is what you might consider to be ‘down and out’. Perhaps he is feeling inadequate to fix things on his own. Certainly his heart is full of misery. Even though David is feeling weak and afflicted from relentless persecution, notice his direction and focus. He cries to God for help and purposes to remain mindful of God’s laws.
We read similar words in Lamentations. The Jewish nation has lost everything because of their disobedience to God. Although their misery is a result of discipline, it is still very real, consequence of their sin has had a lasting effect. Their nation and their people have been destroyed and now they find themselves in exile in Babylon. Yet, the writer continues to plea for God’s help.
La 5:1 Remember, O LORD, what has befallen us; Look, and see our reproach!
What is our example, where do we go for help? Are we resigned to stay at God’s feet even when affliction is lengthy? Do we seek help elsewhere? David is tired yet knows where his strength is found, He continues to cry for God’s help.
Realize, David is not demanding help but crying to God to consider his circumstance. He expects God to strengthen him and carry him through his difficulties, and in the meantime, David will continue to follow Him.
We can conclude from this verse and from the entire Psalm that David has a personal relationship with God. The Psalmist is not depending upon a stranger to help him. He is so intimately entwined in his relationship to God that he knows God sees his distress and cares. We do not have accounted for us that David took some time to think about where he might go for help. He didn’t look through the yellow pages or scroll down his contact list to consider whom he might call.
God is there, He is always at hand to help and support in time of need. He already knows our situation and He understands circumstances better than we do!
Consider. It is amazing that the God of the universe, the God of all creation, knows His children’s names, their comings in and goings out, and personally and intimately is involved in every aspect of their lives.
The words of a well-known hymn comes to mind. Great is Thy Faithfulness. Think for a moment upon some of the words in this song. ‘Morning by morning new mercies I see, all I have needed Thy hand has provided ... Thou changest not, Thy compassions, they fail not, As Thou hast been, Thou forever will be … Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth, Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide. Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow, Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside’.
Read Lamentations 3:21-25. “This I recall to my mind, Therefore I have hope. 22 The LORD'S lovingkindnesses indeed never cease, for His compassions never fail. 23 [They] are new every morning; Great is Thy faithfulness. 24 "The LORD is my portion," says my soul, "Therefore I have hope in Him." 25 The LORD is good to those who wait for Him, to the person who seeks Him.”
We have abundant security in the truths of God’s word! Our example from Psalm 119:153 is to pray for relief in distress.
Jas 5:13 Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praises.
God cares. He is not detached from His children. His attitude towards those He loves is not careless. His love is purposeful; God has a direct personal interest in you!
We pray for deliverance from troubles, then we wait and trust. This is definitely the hard part! Waiting on God for His answers, and accepting that God’s way of helping us may not be what we expect. And His answers may not be as immediate as we would like. He will always deliver us in a way that brings glory to Himself.
Ps 107:6 Then they cried out to the LORD in their trouble; He delivered them out of their distresses.
Ps 50:15 And call upon Me in the day of trouble; I shall rescue you, and you will honor Me."
Matthew Henry’s Commentary likens David’s words to this, “Quicken me [rescue me]. Lord, I am weak, and unable to bear my troubles’ my spirit is apt to droop and sink. O that thou wouldst revive and comfort me, till the deliverance is wrought!”
We pray to God – we trust He hears us – we wait for answers – we continue in obedience – we are assured of His perfect plan!
This is our example and the ‘recipe’ we are to follow.
We like immediate help and answers! Have you been tempted to look elsewhere for solutions because it doesn’t seem that God is working? Unfortunately, we see this reaction to trouble often. Forgetting God or not waiting upon Him can lead us to seeking our own methods of solving a problem. Our answers may even be contrary to God’s. The second part of Psalm 119:153 is our obedience in action! We know God is resolved to help us – we read this truth in His word over and over again. What does our resolve to follow Him look like?
Looking back in Psalm 119, we have many examples of David’s resolve.
Ps 119:16 I shall delight in Thy statutes; I shall not forget Thy word.
Ps 119:109 My life is continually in my hand, Yet I do not forget Thy law.
Ps 119:141 I am small and despised, [Yet] I do not forget Thy precepts.
We can absolutely trust that God’s compassion and understanding will see our need. We can absolutely trust in His power to deliver us in His perfect timing. We can absolutely trust that our obedience in waiting upon Him and following Him, will glorify His name.
In the next verse of Psalm 119, the Psalmist continues to seek God’s deliverance and requests God’s defense.
Ps 119:154 Plead my cause and redeem me; revive me according to Thy word.
Have you ever felt like you were standing alone – for the right reason – wondering how it is that others are not understanding your position?
God stands up for His children. He will fight our battles. I have been reintroduced to super heroes through my little grandsons. No matter the epic battle being fought, the ‘good’ guys always end up saving the day. Certainly, God is much more than a fantasized super hero, but the scenario is implied. He has redeemed us for His glory and nothing will thwart His purpose.
“The original word translated “deliver” [revive], is taken from the office of a redeemer, or next of kin among the Israelites, to whom it belonged to redeem the inheritance, or ransom the person of his impoverished or enslaved relative; and also to be his patron and defender against injustice and oppression, and the avenger of his blood if he were slain.” Thomas Scott
We have an advocate, God is on our side! The Treasury of David includes this quote on verse 154, “Strive my strife, and redeem me’ – that is, stand in my stead, bear my burden, fight my fight, pay my price, and bring me out to liberty. When we feel ourselves dumb before the foe, here is a prayer made to our hand. What a comfort that if we sin we have an advocate, and if we do not sin the same pleader is engaged on our side.”
We, God’s children are in a win-win situation! The only way we can lose is if we deny God altogether – and then we need to question that perhaps we were never saved and had never truly embraced God as Lord and Savior.
Consider. We have all sat in the grandstand of some sporting event. If the game you are watching is close in score, the anticipation builds as each point is scored. The crowd becomes part of the competition as cheers and groans fill the stadium with each movement of their team towards victory. Sometimes the celebration is sweet, and sometimes there is a loss to accept. There is no guarantee of victory, only hope.
If you are on God’s team, you are guaranteed victory because He has already won the battle against sin and death. Period. No last minute surprises, no questioning the umpire on his call, and no sorrow of defeat. Calling to God for His rescue gives glory to Him because it recognizes our need for Him and our dependence on His plan. When we ask for His help, we are assured of His intervention. This is beautiful!
The word ‘revive’ has shown itself earlier in Psalm 119:149, Hear my voice according to Thy lovingkindness; revive me, O LORD, according to Thine ordinances.
Consider. Three words found in Psalm 119:154, Plead – Redeem – Revive. We need God’s grace! He will defend and deliver His children in all circumstances. God gives us life, He quickens us, He keeps us going, He strengthens us, and He restores us so that we might honor Him.
We cannot miss the phrase, ‘according to Thy word’ in verse 154. Why is this important? Does our rescue always look as we might choose? Is our deliverance always in agreement with our time schedule?
God does want to bless us, He desires to pour His love on us, to smother us with His grace, and to increase our faith in His promises. Do we ask? Is God the one we seek when things get tough? Or, do we point fingers upward in anger and distrust His love because we do not understand His answers?
When we ask God for His mercies according to His word, we acknowledge His ways are best. We are saying we want what He wants. There is nothing so big that God cannot attend in His power. He is the only one who is able to supply exactly what is needed for the moment. He is the only one who understands a situation so perfectly that His solution is absolute.
“What the believer hath need of, that God hath not only a will to supply, but also an office to attend it, and power to effectuate it, as here he hath the office of an Advocate and of a powerful Redeemer also, wherein the believer may confidently give him daily employment, as he needeth: "Plead my cause, and deliver me: quicken me according to thy word." --David Dickson, TOD
We see similar requests written by David earlier in the book of Psalms.
Ps 35:1 Contend, O LORD, with those who contend with me; Fight against those who fight against me.
Ps 43:1 Judge me, O God, and plead my cause against an ungodly nation: O deliver me from the deceitful and unjust man.
Samuel also lifted his voice to God for deliverance.
1Sa 24:15 "The LORD therefore be judge and decide between you and me; and may He see and plead my cause, and deliver me from your hand."
Read Job’s words as he is suffering and falsely accused.
Job 5:8 "But as for me, I would seek God, and I would place my cause before God;
God knows all, He is for us, He will strengthen us, and He will rescue us according to His righteousness. An old hymn comes to mind … ‘What a friend we have in Jesus’. Praise His Name!
The star. Created by God for God. Designed specifically to announce the birth of our Savior. The star shone brightly and led the wise men to Bethlehem. It was fixed in the sky as an announcement of Jesus’ birth.
God created the stars. He put them in place and purposed them for His glory. Consider for a moment the heavens above and the stars too numerous to count. God not only created each one of these celestial bodies, but he knows each one by name. This thought is grander than the human mind is able to comprehend! The word ‘ordained’ means God prepared and established them and fitted them each individually for their place. He ordered them by His authority.
Ge 1:1 In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.
Ps 8:3 When I consider Thy heavens, the work of Thy fingers, The moon and the stars, which Thou hast ordained;
Ps 147:4 He counts the number of the stars; He gives names to all of them.
There is an intended purpose for all God’s creation.
Jer 31:35a Thus says the LORD, Who gives the sun for light by day, And the fixed order of the moon and the stars for light by night,
Am 5:8 He who made the Pleiades and Orion and changes deep darkness into morning, Who also darkens day [into] night, Who calls for the waters of the sea and pours them out on the surface of the earth, The LORD is His name. (KJV: ‘seek Him’)
Am 9:6a The One who builds His upper chambers in the heavens,
Where are you caused to look when you are outside on a dark night? Upward, towards the heavens, to the stars and planets in the sky. How can we not consider the majesty of God upon thinking it is He who created each individual light we see and that each has a purpose? When the sky is clear and we look up, the stars shine, too numerous to count. Think upon the Author of the universe and marvel that He knows your name!
God determines the course of each star, he holds the stars in place and directs them to do His will. This is incredible to stop and think upon. God caused one special star to announce the Savior’s birth. God intentionally made a bright light in the sky to guide others to the Messiah. The star they noticed must have been uncommon because it gathered attention. God ordained its presence in the exact place and time to glorify Christ and to lead those who had awaited His birth.
Mt 2:2 "Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we saw His star in the east, and have come to worship Him."
Mt 2:9-10 And having heard the king, they went their way; and lo, the star, which they had seen in the east, went on before them, until it came and stood over where the Child was. 10 And when they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy.
Can man direct the setting of a star in place? Only God, the originator of all creation and source of all time and motion, is able to command the heavens. And He did! Whether this bright object in the sky was a star that had already existed and was finally fulfilling its intended place in history, or a special star that was placed for the occasion of Christ’s birth, God ordained the timing and place. Some speculate it may have been a meteor or comet. What we do know, is this heavenly body commanded the attention of those on earth.
The star of Bethlehem, shone brightly over the Savior of the World, for all to see. If they would open their eyes and hearts to Him. Two thousand years later, Jesus Christ still shines as Savior of the World for those who bow before Him.
Isa 7:14 "Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, a virgin will be with child and bear a son, and she will call His name Immanuel.
Ps 19:1 The heavens are telling of the glory of God; and their expanse is declaring the work of His hands.
Ps 148:3 Praise Him, sun and moon; Praise Him, all stars of light!
The star. Created by God for God. Designed specifically to announce the birth of our Savior. The star shone brightly and led the wise men to Bethlehem. It was fixed in the sky as an announcement of Jesus’ birth.
Isa 9:6 For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. (KJV)
Picture, the Shepherds in the fields on a night like so many other nights keeping watch over their flocks and in an instant this night was set apart as glorious and terrifying all at the same time. We have this vision of brightness and an angel appearing, then, in Luke 2:10, the angel speaks.
The Shepherds.
Following the timeline of Joseph and Mary traveling to Bethlehem for the census and the baby Jesus being born in a manger, we read in Luke of shepherds in the area. They become part of the setting of Jesus’ birth.
Lu 2:8 And in the same region there were [some] shepherds staying out in the fields, and keeping watch over their flock by night.
These shepherds were camping in the countryside guarding and caring for their flock. What might be of note is according to tradition, the sheep were in the fields closer to the time of spring and summer which leaves open to questioning our December nativity scene. However, through culture and custom, we celebrate Jesus’ birth on December 25th. What is important is the event, perhaps more than pinning down the exact date. Back to our shepherds attending their flock by night.
The night hours, under the cover of darkness, would provide an opportunity for wild animals to prey upon the defenseless sheep hence, the shepherds would stay awake to keep an eye on them for protection and keep their flocks from straying. According to Albert Barnes New Testament Commentary, this can be more literally translated as “tending their flocks by turns through the night watches”.
What does the life of a shepherd look like? Certainly, they would need to be diligent workers in order to maintain the gathering of their flock into one area. Also, they would need to be dependable. Neglecting their turn at watch or becoming distracted could mean the loss of sheep.
Recall that when David was a shepherd keeping watch of his father’s flock, he had to fight off the attack of a lion and a bear (1 Samuel 17:34). In the book of Exodus, we are given the information that Moses was a shepherd also, attending his father-in-law’s flock.
Smith’s Bible Dictionary gives us some practical information of a shepherd’s life. Their equipment consisted of a covering probably made from sheep skin to keep warm and a sling for a weapon. Traditionally, there would be small huts or shelters set up or they may have had their own form of a type of tent. And, as depicted in many nativity scenes, a shepherds crook to manage the flock would be common. Water would be supplied either from a stream or from a trough attached to a well.
The routine of a shepherd, again taken from Smith’s Bible Dictionary, was to lead the flock from the fold in the morning by calling to them and settling them into a pasture, sometimes with the assistance of dogs. The shepherd would provide water then in the evening, bring them back and check to see of any were missing. At night, he would keep watchful over the herd to protect them. Being a shepherd also required a certain care of the young lambs and those lambs who were weak.
Although the concentration here is on the shepherds, you cannot miss the correlation between the care of the actual livestock to the care of Christ’s own referred to as His sheep. This truly is a beautiful picture of our own protection from God and His tender mercies towards His children.
Imagine, the dark sky in the hills of Bethlehem, the shepherds keeping a diligent watch over the flock at night. The hustle and bustle of the city quieted down,
Luke 2:9 And an angel of the Lord suddenly stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them; and they were terribly frightened.
This was not an everyday occurrence!! A quiet, peaceful dark sky, then instantly, the night was illuminated. One second, you blink your eyes and the next, you see standing before you an angel shining with the brilliance of God. There was no warning. We can only imagine the shepherds fear at this sight!
Recall the blinding light that appeared before Paul on the road to Damascus.
Ac 22:6,11 "And it came about that as I was on my way, approaching Damascus about noontime, a very bright light suddenly flashed from heaven all around me, 11 "But since I could not see because of the brightness of that light, I was led by the hand by those who were with me, and came into Damascus.
Often, a great light is connected with God’s glory and His angels.
Ex 24:16-17 And the glory of the LORD rested on Mount Sinai, and the cloud covered it for six days; and on the seventh day He called to Moses from the midst of the cloud. 17 And to the eyes of the sons of Israel the appearance of the glory of the LORD was like a consuming fire on the mountain top.
Ps 104:1-2 Bless the LORD, O my soul! O LORD my God, Thou art very great; Thou art clothed with splendor and majesty, 2 Covering Thyself with light as with a cloak, Stretching out heaven like a [tent] curtain.
Re 21:23 And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it: for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof.
Re 22:5 And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever.
Re 18:1 After these things I saw another angel coming down from heaven, having great authority, and the earth was illumined with his glory.
Picture, the Shepherds in the fields on a night like so many other nights keeping watch over their flocks and in an instant this night was set apart as glorious and terrifying all at the same time. We have this vision of brightness and an angel appearing, then, in Luke 2:10, the angel speaks.
Lu 2:10 And the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of a great joy which shall be for all the people;
First, thankfully, the message is do not be afraid. It’s like someone telling you everything’s going to be okay in a disaster – you can appreciate the truth to their statement yet it takes a bit of time for your heart to stop racing and your brain to calm down! Trust trumps fear! Think of the proclamation to Zacharias when told that his wife Elisabeth would have a son in Luke 1:13. The words, ‘fear not’ preceded the impossible news. An angel also told Mary not to fear when she was visited with the news of her conception in Luke 1:30. Daniel was told to ‘fear not’ in his vision in Daniel Chapter 10. In Matthew, an angel appeared to the women seeking Jesus after he was crucified and buried, and told them to not fear (Mt 28:5). These accounts remind us of the incredible circumstances surrounding God’s messengers to His children. Angel’s appearing with divine messages were not every day, normal happenings, but miraculous events. Hence, although exciting, these events were also alarming.
The shepherds are given a reason why they need not fear. This messenger of God has brought good news! The words in the KJV are “good tidings of great joy”. This is the gospel as we understand it, and with it comes exceeding joy – the way of salvation for all men! I wonder if the shepherds had any idea the role God had chosen for them to play in the announcement of His plan of salvation for all mankind.
Lu 2:11 for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.
I’m not certain we are able to imagine the joy this news brought to the shepherds.
Consider. What would our expectations be as humans for the announcement of a king? Perhaps, a herald of angels in a setting of pomp and circumstance filled with an innumerable amount of people eagerly awaiting to catch just a glimpse of royalty.
Notice the reference not only to ‘good news’ and ‘great joy’ but also to ‘all the people’. Jesus was born to this earth for everyone, Jews and Gentiles alike, there were no exclusions in this announcement.
“The good tidings thus brought by the angel were of importance most universal and unlimited, reaching through all successions of time, and all extensions of place, filling all ages and all regions of the world with matter and with obligation of joy. In these tidings we are all concerned, and it is our duty to listen to them with reverent attention, seriously to weigh the purport of them, and diligently to contemplate the reasons of that great joy which should be effectually produced in us by them, as their proper and due result”. Dr. I. Barrow’s commentary in the British Family Bible
Think of the excitement that must have begun in the hearts of the shepherds as they are listening to this proclamation from God! These shepherds are probably of Jewish background and have knowledge of a coming Messiah and have been awaiting the fulfillment of this promise. The scene that is unfolding before their very eyes is the way to forgiveness and peace with God and this is for everyone, the Jewish race and all humans!
A Savior. Christ the Lord. The One who delivers. The ruler of heaven and earth.
Mt 1:21 "And she will bear a Son; and you shall call His name Jesus, for it is He who will save His people from their sins."
Joh 1:29 The next day he *saw Jesus coming to him, and *said, "Behold, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!
This is not just a news event that the shepherds are hearing. This is an event that directly involves them. It is what they have been expecting, the Messiah has been born. For them! Born as a gift to deliver them from sin and death.
Joh 3:16 "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life.
Personally, consider the difference between hearing of something that has happened in a far off land, and that same circumstance taking place in your own home or neighborhood or town. The shepherds in the fields have a direct stake in this event and it must have filled their hearts with an incredible disbelief of their fortune! As you think of the event taking place, realize you are personally involved in this plan of salvation for all mankind. Has your heart been changed by the Savior of the world? Do you recognize Him as Lord? Do you see your need for His deliverance?
Jesus – the Lord of all. Ac 10:36 "The word which He sent to the sons of Israel, preaching peace
Jesus – the Head and Ruler of the church. Eph 1:22 And He put all things in subjection under His feet, and gave Him as head over all things to the church,
Jesus – the King of kings and Lord of Lords. Re 19:16 And on His robe and on His thigh He has a name written, "KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS."
Jesus – the Prince of Peace. Isa 9:6 For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us; and the government will rest on His shoulders; and His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.
2Ti 1:9 who has saved us, and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was granted us in Christ Jesus from all eternity, 2Ti 1:10 but now has been revealed by the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus, who abolished death, and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel,
Lu 2:12 "And this [will be] a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in cloths, and lying in a manger."
The shepherds are told where to look for the infant. They were given specific direction. Although we often may not understand God’s ways, we do have instruction to follow. We may easily get caught up in asking ‘why’, as in ‘Why is the baby lying in a manger’. Perhaps we do not need to be as concerned with the details as we are with the main point – Jesus has been born!
Luke goes on to record that a literal army of angels appeared and were praising God! The scene continues to become more magnificent. They were saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased.” (Luke 2:14)
I am unable to comprehend the grandeur of this moment. The angels depart and the shepherds begin speaking to one another. We do not have to imagine their conversation as it is recorded for us!
Lu 2:15 And it came about when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds [began] saying to one another, "Let us go straight to Bethlehem then, and see this thing that has happened which the Lord has made known to us."
It seems from the wording that this was not a decision that took long to make. The KJV says ‘Let us now go’. The word now or de in Strong’s Greek is a particle of emphasis or explicitness. There is a conveyance of urgency. The shepherds wanted to see for themselves what the angels had proclaimed. They had been given a special revelation from God about their Messiah’s birth and they were going to act on it!
God’s children are given revelation through His Spirit in His word of how to live pleasing to God. What do we do with the information we have? Is it filed away for another time? Do we take immediate action? When sin is revealed to us, do we respond with repentance? When a certain direction is revealed to us, are we willing to walk toward it? When the need change is revealed to us, do we accept it?
Adam Clarke’s Commentary gives this insight, “let us go across the country at the nearest, that we may lose no time, that we may speedily see this glorious reconciler of God and man. All delays are dangerous: but he who delays to seek Jesus, when the angels, the messengers of God, bring him glad tidings of salvation, risks his present safety and his eternal happiness. … Reader, be wise. Acquaint thyself now with God …”
When we read Luke 2:15, what we do not read is the shepherds questioning what they had been told or what they had seen. Although, the event itself was out of the ordinary and probably quite spectacular, the shepherds take the information and believe. They quickly make their way to Bethlehem.
Lu 2:16-18 And they came in haste and found their way to Mary and Joseph, and the baby as He lay in the manger. 17 And when they had seen this, they made known the statement which had been told them about this Child. 18 And all who heard it wondered at the things which were told them by the shepherds.
First, we saw the shepherds’ quick response to God. Now we read they share the words the angels proclaimed about this Child with the parents. Then they tell others the testimony of what they had witnessed with those around them. The Messiah has come, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased.” (Luke 2:14)
How do you respond when you have good news? Are you excited to share with others?
God used the shepherds. They tarried at a simple task of caring for their livestock. They were nomads, roaming the countryside, guarding their flocks. Yet, they believed and became the first to proclaim the Gospel to others. God uses His children for His honor.
2Co 4:7 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the surpassing greatness of the power may be of God and not from ourselves;
Ps 66:16 Come [and] hear, all who fear God, and I will tell of what He has done for my soul.
Ps 71:17-18 O God, Thou hast taught me from my youth; and I still declare Thy wondrous deeds. 18 And even when [I am] old and gray, O God, do not forsake me, until I declare Thy strength to [this] generation, Thy power to all who are to come.
Wonder – this is the response of those who heard the good news. To be amazed, to have admiration. To marvel.
The shepherds in the fields were part of God’s plan and are forever etched in our mind in scenes depicting the birth of Christ. They heard, they believed, they responded, they witnessed. God has given us an example to follow.
A carpenter from Nazareth in the hills of Galilee had plans to marry a young woman from the same city. His plans take a turn that was definitely unexpected and incredibly difficult in human understanding. Yet, Joseph’s faith proves true as he moves forward into unknown territory with a heart of obedience towards God.
We sing about the kings, we sing about the shepherds, we sing about Mary, and of course we sing praises to Jesus, our Lord and Savior. What about Joseph, Mary’s husband? He is an unsung hero in our nativity scene. What can we learn of him, who was he?
Mt 1:16 and to Jacob was born Joseph the husband of Mary, by whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.
Joseph had future plans of a wedding to Mary. He was a carpenter (Mt 13:55), so we can conclude he was a skilled worker. Picture him, going about his plans, working towards this future time of marriage, then the bomb drops!
Mt 1:18-19 Now the birth of Jesus Christ was as follows. When His mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child by the Holy Spirit. 19 And Joseph her husband, being a righteous man, and not wanting to disgrace her, desired to put her away secretly.
We don’t know exactly how or when he found out about Mary’s unique pregnancy, but we do know he was rightfully a little taken back. He acted mercifully towards her which gives us a picture of a compassionate heart and tender feelings for Mary. He wasn’t going to hand her over to Jewish law and its consequences. He chose not to throw her ‘under the bus’. So he decides to quietly, (rather than publicly), end his betrothal to her and avoid her shame. Think for a moment, Joseph and Mary’s betrothal was not a secret, it was publicly known that they had plans for the future to be together. Suddenly this would change and no matter how discreet Joseph chose to be, the word would get out. Certainly, people would talk and his name, along with Mary’s, would be up for questioning and raised eyebrows.
Matthew 1:19 says Joseph was a righteous or just man. Yet we also see he is thoughtful, ‘not wanting to disgrace’ Mary.
Consider. We live in a world where accusations are quick and biting, often without merit. People’s reputations can be ruined. It seems, in general, our society has forgotten the choice to remain silent and show mercy towards those found in difficult and even guilty circumstances. Perhaps we can be reminded of the necessity to act in a manner that is righteous but also tempered with a large dose of gentleness, humility and mercy towards others.
Fact – God continually shows mercy to us in His faithfulness to forgive.
1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
According to Albert Barnes’ New Testament Commentary, the punishment for adultery, in the Middle East carried extreme public shame. “Adultery has always been considered a crime of a very heinous nature. In Egypt it was punished by cutting off the nose of the adulteress; in Persia the nose and ears were cut off; in Judea the punishment was death by stoning”.
Joseph had every right to bring a public accusation against Mary, yet he chose to ‘put her away secretly’ preserving her shame and character.
Ps 112:4-5 Light arises in the darkness for the upright; [He is] gracious and compassionate and righteous. 5 It is well with the man who is gracious and lends; He will maintain his cause in judgment.
Consider. We often hear the words, ‘It isn’t fair’. Perhaps you have personally thought the words, ‘This is not right’. The temptation is to defend yourself against something that looks bad for you. Our example in Joseph is to put another’s protection above our own ‘rights’ and even our own innocence.
Think back upon how God ordains each of His children’s steps. Before all time, God chose Joseph to be a player in the miraculous birth of Jesus. God knew that Joseph would react towards Mary’s circumstances with a heart of care and protection, even in his own distress from what seemed to be his future wife’s betrayal. So while he could have her persecuted, he chose to preserve her.
Read this interesting comment about Joseph’s character written in the British Family Bible: “he purposed to put his spouse away privily, that he might preserve her reputation. In so doing he was a pattern of charity, and reads to us a rule for our deportment towards erring and lapsed persons, that we should treat them with meekness, and pity, and fear; not hastening their shame, nor provoking their spirit, nor making their reformation desperate by harsh treatment. Bp. J. Taylor.
We do know that God comes to the rescue of Mary’s reputation and encourages Joseph to remain and follow through with his plans for their future. However, a personal application is apparent first.
Consider. Before an ‘angel of the Lord’ appeared to Joseph in a dream and enlightened him on the true facts of Mary’s condition, Joseph acted with a heart of kindness and mercy towards her. Before Joseph was convinced of the truth of the matter, he chose to quietly put her away rather than openly shame her. Before God’s plan was revealed, Joseph chose Mary’s protection over his own rights.
“Mary was espoused to him, and he was saddened and perplexed when he learned that she would become a mother before they had been actually married. Many would have thrust her away in indignation, and put her to an open shame; but Joseph was of royal mind as well as royal race. He would not expose what he thought to be the sin of his espoused wife: although he felt that she must be put away, he would do it quietly. When we have to do a severe thing, let us choose the tenderest manner. May be, we shall not have to do it at all.” Spurgeon’s Commentary on Matthew
We all have choices to act in a manner of mercy towards one another. We all have choices to protect another’s name and well-being. Often, we weigh ourselves and our benefit first. How tender are our actions and thoughts towards the mistakes and circumstances of others?
Clemency is not a word often used today. It conveys the meaning of being lenient and showing compassion towards others who are guilty when you are in a position of bringing down a judgement or sentence.
God’s intervention and lovingkindness is shown towards Mary and Joseph in their precarious relationship. As Joseph was pondering what to do with this situation of Mary’s pregnancy, divine intervention eased his thoughts.
Mt 1:20-21 But when he had considered this, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, "Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife; for that which has been conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit. 21 "And she will bear a Son; and you shall call His name Jesus, for it is He who will save His people from their sins."
Seriously?! So here we have a carpenter from Nazareth, engaged to be married to a young women whom he finds is expecting a child before they have had a physical relationship. Joseph decides to act in a discreet manner towards this news to avoid Mary’s shame. He will call off the engagement and pray any ‘talk’ will settle down quickly. Problem solved, or so you would think!
Joseph has a dream which enlightens the true events and he is pulled into the scene which is to unfold. An angel tells him to move ahead with his plans to betroth Mary. He is given this fantastical – meaning ludicrously odd – news that the child Mary is carrying has been conceived of the Holy Spirit. I’m not sure how you would wrap your head around this information.
Consider. Joseph must have had a faith that transcends our understanding. How would you respond to impossible, and humanly speaking, the improbable news of this dream? Joseph’s thoughts must be akin to when Mary was visited by the angel Gabriel to tell her of God’s plan for her to carry His child – although she knew no man (Luke 1:34-35).
What is Joseph’s response? He did as the angel of the Lord commanded him.
Mt 1:24 And Joseph arose from his sleep, and did as the angel of the Lord commanded him, and took [her] as his wife
A carpenter from Nazareth in the hills of Galilee had plans to marry a young woman from the same city. His plans take a turn that was definitely unexpected and incredibly difficult in human understanding. Yet, Joseph’s faith proves true as he moves forward into unknown territory with a heart of obedience towards God. Think of Joseph’s humble character as he accepts Mary as his wife, and prepares to step-father a child not his own, all the while, trying to wrap his head around a story that would be difficult for anyone to grasp. He will go ahead with his betrothal to Mary and take a significant role in the Savior’s birth and early childhood.
I have to pause a moment here as these words shout in my own head – How big is your God? How amazing and incredible is your God? How perfect is your God who knows and plans each moment in each minute of all mankind – all to His glorious name?
This story has more twists and turns than any modern day screen writer could imagine. Yet, it is ultimately true and divinely inspired as the plan of salvation for the entire world.
In several instances, we read of Joseph’s obedience to Jewish Law (Lu 2:1-4; 21-39, 41; Mt 2:13-15; Mt 2:19-23; Lu 2:42-51). The greater commendation is his obedience to God and acceptance of God’s plan for him.
Joseph was of the lineage of David. He lived in the city of Nazareth in Galilee (Luke 1:26-27). Although he was not the physical father of Jesus, he acted as a father to Him (Luke 4:22). He is last mentioned in the journey to Jerusalem when Jesus was twelve years old. According to the International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, ‘it is commonly supposed that he [Joseph] died before the commencement of the public ministry of Christ.
Joseph, Mary’s husband. We are shown only a glimpse, a small window of his life. Yet, the inspiration is great. He is a person, drawn towards God and used by Him. A carpenter from a town in the hills of Galilee with a heart of compassion and integrity and thoughtfulness. Joseph is willing and obedient to the plans of God and humble in his acceptance of God’s direction. There is no way he would be able to comprehend such an incredible plot yet he finds himself in the midst of the true story of God’s redemption for the entire world.
The figure of Joseph is commonly placed next to Mary in a Christian nativity scene, simply because we know he belongs there, he is a factor in the account of Jesus’ birth. Yet, as we take a closer look at his life, we can see clearly how God used our ‘unsung’ hero. Think upon the example we have in Joseph – a heart full of compassion, humility, faith, and obedience – a man used by God for God in His plan for humanity.
Mt 1:25 and [Joseph] kept her a virgin until she gave birth to a Son; and he called His name Jesus.
As we approach the season of celebrating Jesus’ birth, I pray our faith and obedience to God’s will is lived out in a manner that directs honor to Him. His plans are for our good and His glory.
Every Christmas season, scenes of Jesus’ birth is depicted all around – in store front windows, in picture books on store shelves, and on ornaments for the tree. The nativity is printed on napkins, fabric and canvas suitable for framing. Little eyes look with wonder at the familiar scene and sing songs of a ‘Silent Night’ so long ago. What do we know of the characters represented?
What do we know of Mary?
Her husband was Joseph, whose father was Jacob. She gave birth to Jesus Christ, the Savior of the world. His birth has been celebrated world-wide for over two thousand years!
Matthew 1:16 And to Jacob was born Joseph the husband of Mary, by whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.
Mary lived in the city of Nazareth which was set among the hills of Galilee. It seems that the people who lived in Nazareth were scorned upon (ref. John1:46), so it may not have been a popular place to live. But, something quite extraordinary happened to an unsuspecting teen according to the Bible.
Luke 1:26-30 Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city in Galilee, called Nazareth, 27 to a virgin engaged to a man whose name was Joseph, of the descendants of David; and the virgin's name was Mary. 28 And coming in, he said to her, "Hail, favored one! The Lord [is] with you." 29 But she was greatly troubled at [this] statement, and kept pondering what kind of salutation this might be. 30 And the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary; for you have found favor with God.
Note, the salutation given to Mary by the angel Gabriel. She is favored by God! This comes from the Greek word charitoo meaning to give grace or special honor. Mary is accepted by God as His own. According to the account above, she was actually disturbed by this greeting and wondered what was meant.
Think for a moment how strange this encounter might have been! It was not an everyday occurrence to have an angel of the Lord visit you. She did not expect God to give her a special honor which leads us to believe she was humble. In this unusual meeting, it was most likely difficult for her to even know what to think or say. How would you respond?
Picture this young girl, living in the town of Nazareth set in hills made of limestone, trying to wrap her head around this greeting. You can almost see her shaking her head in disbelief, wondering if she was dreaming or hallucinating. Then, the real news is delivered.
Luke 1:31 "And behold, you will conceive in your womb, and bear a son, and you shall name Him Jesus.
Mary was a virgin when she conceived Jesus. This fact, in itself, makes no sense in our human knowledge and understanding. Yet, it is true. It is highly doubtful that Mary was able to comprehend how she could conceive and carry a child without having an intimate relationship with a man. Read her response:
Luke 1:34 And Mary said to the angel, "How can this be, since I am a virgin?"
Hmmmm, you must have the wrong person, right!? She was not even married yet! The entire context of this scenario seems to be out of place, at least in human terms.
Luke 1:35 And the angel answered and said to her, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; and for that reason the holy offspring shall be called the Son of God.
Consider the news Mary had received, how her life was turned upside down. One day she was anticipating her marriage to Joseph, the next she was wondering how she would convince him of what had happened and hope he would somehow accept this unbelievable change in their plans.
Mary was probably not oblivious to the laws and the consequence of what others might think. Yet, her response to what she understands as impossible, unbelievable, and in all likelihood puts her in a position of wrong accusation and death, certainly proves she is God’s favored, full of His grace.
Luke 1:38 And Mary said, "Behold, the bondslave of the Lord; be it done to me according to your word." And the angel departed from her.
There are two thoughts from her response that cannot escape our notice. Faith and obedience. She believed what the angel said would happen, and she refers to herself as the Lord’s bondslave, in complete acceptance of His use of her life. What we do not read is an account of Mary thinking that perhaps God could find someone else to use, that this might prove to be quite difficult and it was going to upset the plans she had for her future. Instead, her faith in God’s will for her life shines forth. Her obedience to God’s plan is steadfast. It is remarkable, worthy of our notice.
Matthew 1:18 Now the birth of Jesus Christ was as follows. When His mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child by the Holy Spirit.
The word used in the KJV for betrothed, is espoused. According to Jewish custom, a man and woman could be espoused or promised in agreement to one another ten to twelve months before they were married. This time was much like what we consider being engaged today. However, there is a difference. In the Jewish religion the betrothal agreement was legal and binding on both sides, at the time of engagement. Our cultural practice today sees an engagement as non-binding and without any legalities involved. No matter if a marriage ceremony takes place or not, or if unfaithfulness is practiced, there is little consequence. In Mary’s case, unfaithfulness during the time of betrothal was considered adultery and punished exactly the same way.
Leviticus 20:10 'If [there is] a man who commits adultery with another man's wife, one who commits adultery with his friend's wife, the adulterer and the adulteress shall surely be put to death.
John 8:3-5a And the scribes and the Pharisees *brought a woman caught in adultery, and having set her in the midst, 4 they *said to Him, "Teacher, this woman has been caught in adultery, in the very act. 5a "Now in the Law Moses commanded us to stone such women; …"
Was Mary afraid of what might happen? We do not read she was, but she was human and must have had feelings and fears and thoughts. It would be fair to think she felt a bit uncertain and uneasy how this plan was going to come to fruition. We do know Mary at least suffered the misunderstanding of those who loved her.
Read the commentary below on Matthew 1:18.
“She was found with child. Her situation was the most distressing and humiliating that can be conceived. Nothing but the fullest consciousness of her own integrity, and the strongest confidence in God, could have supported her in such trying circumstances, where her reputation, her honour, and her life were at stake. What conversation passed between her and Joseph, on this discovery, we are not informed; but the issue proves that it was not satisfactory to him: nor could he resolve to consider her as his wife, till God had sent his angel to bear the most unequivocal testimony to the virgin's innocence. His whole conduct, on this occasion, was exceedingly benevolent and humane. He might at once have taken the advantage of the law, and had her stoned to death.” Adam Clarke’s Commentary
Matthew 1:19-20 And Joseph her husband, being a righteous man, and not wanting to disgrace her, desired to put her away secretly. 20 But when he had considered this, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, "Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife; for that which has been conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit.
Think again of the consequence of what Mary’s condition looked like to those around her, this time recorded for us in Deuteronomy.
Deuteronomy 22:23-24a "If there is a girl who is a virgin engaged to a man, and [another] man finds her in the city and lies with her, 24a then you shall bring them both out to the gate of that city and you shall stone them to death ...”
Consider. Mary’s age. She was probably much younger than what we might think. According to several different studies, the average age for women to get married nowadays is about twenty-five years old. Four generations ago, it was not so unusual to be married in your very early twenties. Today, that would be considered fairly young! Rewind to the time and culture of our subject. It was common then for young women to be espoused or betrothed in their early teens, when it was physically possible to conceive children. This was culturally not only accepted but expected. Taking this into thought, it is fair to assume that Mary may have been little more than a teenager.
Imagine for a moment the teenage girls you know and try to comprehend the full weight of responsibility placed on Mary at this young age. It is difficult to believe and absolutely inspiring to read her response to the news she was given and all it may have conjured up in her mind.
As we approach the season of celebrating Jesus’ birth, I pray our faith and obedience to God’s will is lived out in a manner that directs honor to Him. His plans are for our good and His glory. God will use each of us right where we are placed. We may not always understand His plan (I often do not understand), sometimes God may require that we are uncomfortable, and He may ask some to suffer. God may change the plans we thought we would follow. In times of unexpected turns we have been given an example to follow through the exemplary life of a teenage girl. We are not to worship Mary, God alone is worthy of praise. But, we can esteem her life as one used by God and look at His amazing ways with hearts of love and eyes of wonder.
God has no variation in His love for us, no interruption in His promises to us, and He is eternal – a time concept we can’t truly comprehend.
Ps 23. 1 (A Psalm of David.) The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not want. 2 He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters. 3 He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness For His name’s sake. 4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil; for Thou art with me; Thy rod and Thy staff, they comfort me. 5 Thou dost prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; Thou hast anointed my head with oil; my cup overflows. 6 Surely goodness and lovingkindness will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
A disco band named ‘Heatwave’ wrote a song released in 1976 titled, ‘Always and Forever’. This song swept the charts and became a popular tune at weddings across the country. I wonder how many couples danced to that music, made it their own special song of endearment, only to break up years later. I was one of them.
The words always and forever mean essentially the same thing. They are measures of time that have no end. When we say always we mean all the time and on every occasion, without variation or change, without interruption, and forever – throughout all time. To say you will always like something or always do something or always be there or always be available or always love someone is to profess a perpetual promise based on your expected knowledge of the future. This is shaky ground even with the best of intentions.
What do we mean by forever? Forever implies limitless time, endless time without interruption. The synonyms everlasting and eternal come to mind. Our comprehension of time is within what we know to exist. We understand seconds, minutes, hours, days, weeks, months and years. We have an appreciation for longevity. We celebrate the centenarians who reach their 100th birthdays and beyond. We marvel at couples who’ve been together 50, 60 even 75 years.
I remember the intrigue I felt when I stood at the Colosseum in Rome. The sheer size of it was overwhelming but it was the age that was difficult to comprehend. Finished in 84 AD it is approximately 1,938 years old! Try to wrap your head around that number in years. And it’s still standing! Even this information, albeit impressive, doesn’t come close to ‘always and forever’ in time.
Our always and forever is subject to limits. Limits of our thoughts, our feelings, our actions, and our direction. Our thoughts change constantly. Our feelings have no settled place. Our actions reflect our inconsistent thoughts and feelings. And our direction is seldom straight forward. The good news is that when God says always, He means just what He says. There is no possibility of anything different.
God has no variation in His love for us, no interruption in His promises to us, and He is eternal – a time concept we can’t truly comprehend.
Psalm 23:6 tells us that God’s goodness and mercy shall follow His children ‘all the days’ of their life.
What is God’s goodness and mercy?
goodness the best, bountiful, favour, graciously, kindness, loving, pleasant
lovingkindness mercy, kindness, favour
WordWeb: compassion, kindness, forgiveness
“Surely goodness and lovingkindness will follow me”
God’s children have the promise of His favor and the blessing that result from His care and protection. The Psalmist can say this for certain and as he looks back at God’s guidance and care for him, he is assured that this care will continue throughout all his days on earth and into eternity. In what ways are you able to testify of God’s care for yourself? Consider all the times He has kept you safe, His supply of all things you have needed, the blessings He has given, and the comfort He has provided.
“Surely goodness and kindness will follow me. This is a fact as indisputable as it is encouraging, and therefore a heavenly verily, or “surely” is set as a seal upon it. This sentence may be read, “only goodness and mercy,” for there shall be unmingled mercy in our history. These twin guardian angels will always be with me at my back and my beck. Just as when great princes go abroad they must not go unattended, so it is with the believer. Goodness and mercy follow him always –” Treasury of David
Ps 30:11 Thou hast turned for me my mourning into dancing; Thou hast loosed my sackcloth and girded me with gladness;
Ps 36:7-10 How precious is Thy lovingkindness, O God! And the children of men take refuge in the shadow of Thy wings. 8 They drink their fill of the abundance of Thy house; And Thou dost give them to drink of the river of Thy delights. 9 For with Thee is the fountain of life; In Thy light we see light. 10 O continue Thy lovingkindness to those who know Thee, and Thy righteousness to the upright in heart.
2Co 1:9-10 indeed, we had the sentence of death within ourselves in order that we should not trust in ourselves, but in God who raises the dead; 10 who delivered us from so great a [peril of] death, and will deliver [us,] He on whom we have set our hope. And He will yet deliver us,
God’s care for us will not stop, it always available. Perhaps we don’t often recognize God’s provision and protection. But it will ‘follow’ us, meaning there is so much blessing God has for us that we can’t even get away from it! God desires to bless His children!
God will bless us here on earth and forever in heaven. What are we looking forward to?
“And I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever”.
Heaven is my true home. When Jesus died for me on the cross, He paid the penalty of death I owe and purchased a place in heaven for me. When Jesus rose from the dead in victory over sin, He sat at the right hand of His Father in heaven. God’s children have an established place in heaven, an eternal dwelling in His presence.
Ps 49:15 But God will redeem my soul from the power of the grave: for he shall receive me. Selah. (KJV)
What does this mean for me? One thing I should not do is place my source of happiness in this world. There are definitely moments of happiness that are blessings from God, but this is not my focus. If I’m living for what the world offers then my joy is fleeting – it comes and goes with the events and circumstances that surround me. These moments of happiness are good and we should enjoy them, but they are inconsistent.
However, the joy set before me in God’s promises are definite. His goodness and lovingkindness are always available and showered upon me even though I am undeserving. And God’s promise of life forever with Him is a goal that will be attained. It is certain!
Ps 73:24 With Thy counsel Thou wilt guide me, and afterward receive me to glory.
“God never leaves his true followers providential mercies gracious influences, and miraculous interferences, shall never be wanting when they are necessary.” Adam Clarke’s Commentary
Ps 36:7-9 How precious is Thy lovingkindness, O God! And the children of men take refuge in the shadow of Thy wings. 8 They drink their fill of the abundance of Thy house; And Thou dost give them to drink of the river of Thy delights. 9 For with Thee is the fountain of life; In Thy light we see light.
God’s children have confidence in God’s care and in God’s plan. This confidence produces a joy separate from circumstances. It is a joy in the knowledge that someday we will be in heaven forever. We need no other proof that heaven is real than the word of God saying it is so! No miraculous experiences, no visions or lights at the end of a tunnel – God’s word is truth and He says He is preparing a place for us.
2Co 5:1 For we know that if the earthly tent which is our house is torn down, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.
2Ti 4:18 The Lord will deliver me from every evil deed, and will bring me safely to His heavenly kingdom; to Him [be] the glory forever and ever. Amen.
Ps 16:11 Thou wilt make known to me the path of life; In Thy presence is fullness of joy; In Thy right hand there are pleasures forever.
God’s children have God’s favor. We have been given the privilege of knowing Him and His graciousness towards us. Because of His lovingkindness, the benefit of His protection and guidance are bestowed upon His children.
“And therefore I am bold to hope, that the same bounteous goodness and tender mercy which hath without my desert done all this for me, and pursues me as zealously with its favor as my enemies do with their malice, will still more graciously attend me at the end of my days, and settle me in a quiet enjoyment of his house (as well as my own); where I will never cease to praise his wonderful love towards me, and to give him thanks for all the benefits he hath bestowed upon his unworthy servant.” Patrick/Lowth/Whitby/Lowman Commentary
Consider. We have ‘bad’ days and ‘good’ days. There are some days we would like to repeat and others we would love to forget. We have days filled with happiness and days filled with sadness. We have days that are confusing and days where all seems to be in its place. Sometimes we anticipate days where a special event is planned and other times we dread a day that we know will be difficult. In all these days, God is with us. God will supply all that is needed because of His goodness towards us. God will continue to pour His blessing upon us even though we are undeserving because of His mercy shown towards us. These promises are incredible!
Consider. What is an inheritance? Perhaps you’ve inherited something after someone has died. We can inherit a title or an office or property. We can inherit blue eyes or blond hair, height and many other biological characteristics from our parents. Children of God have an inheritance in His kingdom to look forward to when they finally pass from this earth. But, we also have an inheritance now. And that is we may dwell in His house at any time. We can dwell in His presence at any time.
Look at what God has already done for you. This is what our Psalmist has done from the beginning of Psalm 23, and what has led David to his conclusion in Ps 23:6. Surely goodness and lovingkindness will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
He has seen God’s care and provision in his life as his Shepherd in verse 1.
He has experienced rest from God in the midst of turmoil in verse 2.
He has been refreshed by God and led on a path of righteousness for Him in verse 3.
He has encountered God’s peace, protection and comfort through dangers and difficulties in verse 4.
He has received God’s abundant blessings even while he is distressed and afflicted in verse 5.
Because God has shown His faithfulness in the past and because God’s character is faithful,
Therefore, Surely, Only – goodness and lovingkindness will follow him all his days and he has the promise of eternal life in God’s blessed presence!
David is resolved that God will continue to favor Him throughout all his days and into forever.
Contentment in the certainty of God’s blessings – this is our example.
Ps 23. 1 (A Psalm of David.) The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not want. 2 He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters. 3 He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness For His name’s sake. 4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil; for Thou art with me; Thy rod and Thy staff, they comfort me. 5 Thou dost prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; Thou hast anointed my head with oil; my cup overflows. 6 Surely goodness and lovingkindness will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
One of the lines in the song ‘Always and Forever’ by Heatwave reads as follows.
“And I know tomorrow, will still be the same, cause we’ve got a life of love that won’t ever change”
As people, the promise of ‘always and forever’ to one another is wrought with our own inconsistencies and infidelities.
In Christ, our tomorrow will reflect the same faithfulness and love from God that He has shown in the past. God’s love for His children will never change. His promise for our future is certain. God will love us and care for us always and forever!
Pray for all men especially those in authority. Pray with thanksgiving for what God has done and what He will do. Pray that God will work in the hearts of those in leadership that they will be wise and fulfill their responsibilities well. Pray for peace to surround us and for your own personal example to promote peace. Pray because it brings glory and honor to God. Pray for the hearts of all men to be radically changed by God’s gift of love.
A few days ago was the first Tuesday in November and elections were held across the country. Senate seats were open, several measures were introduced, and school boards experienced a shuffling of their members. Did everything I voted for pass? No. Do I have concerns for what I see happening in our country? Yes.
In the first chapter of Timothy 2, Paul is writing to his spiritual child Timothy. Paul urges him to remain in Ephesus in order to instruct the church to teach the truth. He reminds Timothy of his own personal testimony of God’s mercy, grace and faithfulness. He then encourages Timothy to ‘fight the good fight’ holding his faith rightly, unlike some who have wearied and gone astray. Now on to the 2nd Chapter which is where I personally found myself reading this morning.
1Ti 2:1-2 First of all, then, I urge that entreaties [and] prayers, petitions [and] thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men, 2 for kings and all who are in authority, in order that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity.
I live in the beautiful state of California. The weather is absolutely gorgeous, the landscape is varied, from mountain peaks to the ocean. There is desert and there are vineyards. We have redwoods and palm trees. Somehow, in God’s design, I was born here and have lived my entire life in this state. California is known for its ‘cutting edge’ thinking. It would be considered progressive. I, however, am what you might label ‘old fashioned’ or conservative.
Back to our elections from this past week. How do we react to what is happening around us? What happens when I don’t necessarily support some of the measures that have been passed or the thinking of my elected representatives? Let’s look at what God’s word says. Why? Because in Him alone we have security and for that, we can be thankful!
1Ti 2:1 First of all, then, I urge that entreaties [and] prayers, petitions [and] thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men,
We are exhorted to pray! This is not a suggestion, rather it is a strong urging to act upon what we are able. We worship God when we come before Him with our prayers. We acknowledge God as our Father when we pray.
Ro 8:15 For you have not received a spirit of slavery leading to fear again, but you have received a spirit of adoption as sons by which we cry out, "Abba! Father!"
Ga 4:6 And because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, crying, "Abba! Father!"
Notice what must accompany our prayer – thanksgiving. We are to have a heart of gratitude as we pray. And who do we pray for? All men! Yes, even those we don’t much care for. But how can we have a heart of thankfulness when a measure or law passes that doesn’t honor Biblical teaching?
Consider. Where does true peace come from? Does it come from all things going our way or from the knowledge that God is in control of all things?
Jesus reminded His disciples that they would have peace that only He could give. This is not the peace found in the world which ebbs with every change. However, we can live in peace even as we’re surrounded by the world. There is no need to be fearful.
Joh 14:27 "Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives, do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful.
There is a familiar section of scripture I say to myself often. I am reminded that I don’t need to understand, or agree with circumstances that are not in my power to change, in order to have peace.
Php 4:6-7 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, shall guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Let’s ponder this heart of thankfulness a bit more. When Paul wrote the book of Timothy, it was at a time when the kings and magistrates were largely enemies of the church. We certainly see this now in our modern governing body. We can pray that eyes are opened to see Truth. We can pray for protection. And we can pray these things with a heart of thanksgiving for all the blessings God continually pours out on the believer and unbeliever alike.
Prayer for everyone is considered a priority. In the New American Standard translation of 1 Timothy 2:1, the phrase used is ‘First of all’. It is important to pray for the salvation of souls.
We are to pray for everyone, including and especially those, in a position of authority. 1Ti 2:2 for kings and all who are in authority, in order that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity.
What happens when we resort to prayer? We can be still as opposed to fretting, and we encourage peace as opposed to unrest. Our striving for peace will help to maintain peace around us. Our energy can go into praying for those in authority to be faithful to execute the responsibilities of their position. Tertullian, in his Apology, says “We pray for all the emperors, that God may grant them long life, a secure government, a prosperous family, vigorous troops, a faithful senate, an obedient people; that the whole world may be in peace; and that God may grant, both to Caesar and to every man, the accomplishment of their just desires…We pray for kings and rulers, that with their royal authority they may be found possessing a wise and prudent mind."
Consider. How many acts of rioting and rebellion start because one or a few decide to seek their own justice? When an area is in uproar there is no peace, and there is no safety. So, pray. Pray that God will appoint men who will follow His direction. Pray that God will protect us from leaders with a desire to cause trouble and serve themselves. We may not see what we would like but certainly our own hearts will be led to the peace that comes from knowing God is the ultimate authority. And we can enjoy the peace that comes from living in a place that is kept in order. God established authority to keep peace. This is for our benefit. Is God able to influence a heart? Absolutely. Think back for a moment how He has changed you! God’s answers to prayer do not depend on the righteousness of people but rather His own perfect righteousness.
“[Pray] that their hearts may be so influenced as at least to tolerate the gospel, that we, who are by the principles of our religion taught to abhor every thing which would be injurious to them, may not be injured by them, but may be permitted to pass a peaceful and quiet life, while we are desirous to conduct ourselves not only without offence, but in a useful and exemplary manner, in all piety and gravity, attentive to the several duties which we owe both to God and our fellow creatures.” Philip Doddridge
The last part of 1 Timothy 2:1 says “in all godliness and dignity”. Does our conduct bring glory to God? I cannot choose the actions of others, but I can prayerfully consider if my conduct points towards the holiness of God. We can pray for God’s blessing on our government.
Tit 2:7-8 in all things show yourself to be an example of good deeds, [with] purity in doctrine, dignified, 8 sound [in] speech which is beyond reproach, in order that the opponent may be put to shame, having nothing bad to say about us.
Ro 12:18 If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men.
In Jeremiah we read the instruction to the Jews in captivity to pray for the peace of the city that held them captive. Jer 29:7 'And seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the LORD on its behalf; for in its welfare you will have welfare.'
Ro 13:1 Let every person be in subjection to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God.
In God’s truths we can have quietness – not troubled from without, and peace – not troubled from within.
As you read further in 1 Timothy Chapter 2, verses three and four spell out the desire God has for all men to be saved. We worship God when we act in obedience; our prayers offered for all men to be saved are acceptable forms of worship.
1Ti 2:3-4 This is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, 4 who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.
Nothing is hopeless! Consider what God did in Paul’s life. He was once an avid persecutor of Christians and God turned that same fervor he had against truth to work for His glory.
Let’s pray then, in agreement with God, for the salvation of souls, particularly those who have responsibility to lead. If God saved you, how can you doubt that His grace extends to everyone? 2 Timothy 1:9 reminds us we were not saved because of our own good works but because of God’s grace. Pray for your enemies. Pray for those you know and love. Pray for those in authority. This is according to God’s will and reaps a benefit of blessing.
Mt 5:44-45 "But I say to you, love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you 45 in order that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven; for He causes His sun to rise on [the] evil and [the] good, and sends rain on [the] righteous and [the] unrighteous.
Jesus died on the cross for all mankind. Through Jesus alone, God provides a way of salvation to all and desires all to be saved. We have a responsibility to share Who God is and what He has done, to those around us in the hope that they will believe. It is possible you are thinking if Jesus died for all mankind, why isn’t everyone just saved? Salvation is available and made possible for all, yet all do not accept the gift provided.
Consider. Let’s say you were shipwrecked. You’re the only one who survived and you find yourself on a very small island literally in the middle of nowhere. On this island there is no food, no fresh water, and no shelter. There is no land to be seen in the distance and, although you’re a strong swimmer, there is no possibility of swimming off the island because you’ve spotted several sharks close to shore.
Perhaps for a short time, the beauty and allure of a deserted island with a private white sand beach, seems doable. But soon, hunger, thirst and lack of protection from the elements, take their toll, and the need to be rescued becomes your overwhelming concern.
Just you are finishing your trek around the island, having lost all hope of trying to discover a way off, you notice a bright shiny yacht anchored just off a small cove. You can’t believe your good fortune. You think you may be hallucinating because it is difficult to understand how it appeared, but it is real. You climb aboard and marvel at the accommodation you see. The galley kitchen below deck is stocked with food and water – enough for several days. There are keys and an envelope sitting on the driver’s seat.
You enjoy the food, engorging yourself with delicious meals, you drink your fill of fresh water, and even sleep in the comfort of a real bed. But, soon, the food and water is depleted. You do still have protection however. Several more days go by and you realize you are in a desperate state once again. Then, your eye catches something reflecting the sun’s rays.
The key! You had been so busy enjoying the provision of the yacht, you didn’t really pay attention to the key – or the envelope. You open the envelope and it contains a card that simply reads, “Use the key, it will save you”. The problem is, you don’t know how to drive and certainly have no idea how to manage navigating a yacht.
Now you have a choice. You can stay on the island and even take cover in the protection of what was provided. But eventually, the hope you once felt upon your discovery will vanish and you will starve to death. Or … even though you’re scared to turn the key and have no idea how you will navigate something unfamiliar, you can use the key, and have faith that this yacht is your only way to safety. It will save you but you must trust that it will and put your faith in what has been provided.
God desires all men to be saved. God has provided the way of our salvation. We need to choose to use the key and accept what He has done. Not all choose to place their faith and trust in Jesus.
Joh 3:16-17 "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life. 17 "For God did not send the Son into the world to judge the world, but that the world should be saved through Him.
1Ti 2:1-4 First of all, then, I urge that entreaties [and] prayers, petitions [and] thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men, 2 for kings and all who are in authority, in order that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity. 3 This is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, 4 who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.
Pray for all men especially those in authority. Pray with thanksgiving for what God has done and what He will do. Pray that God will work in the hearts of those in leadership that they will be wise and fulfill their responsibilities well. Pray for peace to surround us and for your own personal example to promote peace. Pray because it brings glory and honor to God. Pray for the hearts of all men to be radically changed by God’s gift of love.
I am concerned for what I see happening in our country. But I am reminded of God’s faithfulness and the need to pray as His child. I am reminded that peace comes from knowing God and trusting in His perfect plan. God will use the results of this past election and those to come, for His glory and His greater purpose that all will be saved.
God’s protection, God’s defense, God’s deliverance and God’s faithfulness – lead us to live in the grips of His power rather than the clutches of paralyzing fear.
I began a study on Psalm 91 just about one year ago to this day. In between the other ongoing studies I am writing, I decided it was time to complete the study I began on verses 5-8 in this Psalm. I’m so glad I was led to spend time in Psalm 91 again! I have been blessed thinking upon the sufficiency of all things we have in Christ and His continued care for me. I pray you are also encouraged by the reminder of God’s protection upon His children. The previous studies on verses 1-4 can be found under the titles:
The Perfect Shelter Ps 91:1; Fort Jefferson or Jesus Ps 91:2; Jitnot Ps 91:3; and Pinions Ps 91:4.
There is uncertainty about the writer of this Psalm and the date it was written. Perhaps it is written by Moses, but this is not clear. Psalm 91 is an optimistic account of faith. Verse one speaks of the protection of God, verse two His defense of the believer, verse three God’s deliverance from evil and verse four the refuge we can find in Him. Now on to verses 5 through 8 – let’s dig in!
Ps 91:5-8 You will not be afraid of the terror by night, Or of the arrow that flies by day; 6 of the pestilence that stalks in darkness, Or of the destruction that lays waste at noon. 7 A thousand may fall at your side, and ten thousand at your right hand; [But] it shall not approach you. 8 You will only look on with your eyes, and see the recompense of the wicked.
What causes you to be afraid? Each of us has circumstances that evoke fear. Perhaps it’s the dark. For some it is the thought of pain and suffering from physical illness or injury. Others may have a fear of becoming involved in a traffic accident. Or even, as I write this, a hurricane is headed for the Southern East Coast and is expected to hit within hours. Certainly being fearful of the strength and damage caused by a catastrophic weather event is common amongst those who have been in the midst of these circumstances. I often find myself on a flight somewhere and when the airplane hits especially strong turbulence I can just feel fear rising up and have to pray to fight it. Change can cause fear also, the unknown or unexpected. Some people are fearful of not knowing what tomorrow will be like.
Psalm 91:5 says You will not be afraid of the terror by night.
The word afraid in this verse means exactly what you’d expect. To be frightened of something. Our English understanding of the word is to be ‘filled’ with fear or apprehension. Being fearful can cause worry, or concern or insecurity. When we are afraid we may hesitate to move forward. There is a common phrase ‘to be paralyzed with fear’ that most of us are familiar with. Some of our fears are imagined yet others are very real and apprehension may sometimes be a good response.
The specific fear referred to in Psalm 91:5 is ‘terror by night’ and ‘the arrow that flies by day’.
terror <pachad> a (sudden) alarm (properly, the object feared, by implication, the feeling): dread; terror.
night <layil> a twist away of the light, night; figuratively, adversity; night (season)
What comes to mind when you think of the words, ‘terror by night’? It is true that many troubles happen in the night hours when it is dark. I don’t often think of locking my doors when I am home during the day and yet when I go to bed at night I make sure the house is secure. Walks I might take through the desert during the day are somewhat serene but become a bit worrisome when it is dark. In general, persons who have evil motives and intentions seem to take advantage of the night hours and darkness. Notice the definition of ‘night’ can mean a season also. You are probably able to look back at a season of life where you felt particularly alarmed or fearful. Worry, apprehension, uncertainty and unrest can set in quickly when we allow fear to settle in our thoughts.
Fear is not only a product of the night, but as our verse says, it can be ‘the arrow that flies by day’. Consider. Most often, an arrow is used for attack. It pierces the skin causing a wound.
How do we ‘not be afraid’? It is one thing to know intellectually we don’t need to let fear take over our thinking, yet it is much more difficult at times to ward off the strong feelings of fear.
Truth – God is more than sufficient to defend His children from danger. Regardless of what is causing your fear, peace and quietness and rest can be found in God’s presence. Faith in God will replace fear as you draw near to Him and choose to focus on His Truth and trust His protection. Bad things still happen but all needs to be turned to God, knowing that He works all things for good according to His glory. We simply cannot understand His ways. So as our faith increases, our fear turns into moments rather than paralyzing hours or days. There is nothing He allows in our lives that is a surprise to Him or out of His control. He has knowledge and power over all things. This causes me to always have to remember it is not this world I am living for, but God and the certain hope of eternal life. Where is your perspective?
Isa 43:2 "When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they will not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched, nor will the flame burn you.
Ps 112:7 He will not fear evil tidings; His heart is steadfast, trusting in the LORD.
Ps 121:6 The sun will not smite you by day, Nor the moon by night.
We are all exposed to circumstances that cause fear. Fear is an emotion that is a part of being human. Yet, it is what we do with fear that is the question we need to address. As we focus on the Truth, our fears are placed in the almighty hands of God. Our fears are real but the force of their impact is in God’s hands. He says He is with us, walking beside us, and protecting us. I love what Psalm 112:7 says. We need a steadfast heart that continually places our trust in God.
Ps 46:1-3 God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. 2 Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change, And though the mountains slip into the heart of the sea; 3 Though its waters roar [and] foam, Though the mountains quake at its swelling pride. Selah.
When the disciples cried out to Jesus in fear to save their sinking boat, Jesus replied, “Why are you timid, you men of little faith?” (Mt 8:26). They lacked confidence in God. Read the words David gave to his son Solomon. 1Ch 28:20 Then David said to his son Solomon, "Be strong and courageous, and act; do not fear nor be dismayed, for the LORD God, my God, is with you. He will not fail you nor forsake you until all the work for the service of the house of the LORD is finished.
God’s protection, God’s defense, God’s deliverance and God’s faithfulness – lead us to live in the grips of His power rather than the clutches of paralyzing fear. Psalm 91:6 goes on to list those causes of fear either by day or night, pestilence that stalks in darkness and destruction that lays waste at noon.
Psalm 91:6-8 of the pestilence that stalks in darkness, Or of the destruction that lays waste at noon. 7 A thousand may fall at your side, and ten thousand at your right hand; [But] it shall not approach you. 8 You will only look on with your eyes, and see the recompense of the wicked.
Plagues and famine – a common fear in the time and place of our Psalmist – are still no cause for fear. We may not experience plagues and famine, but certainly there are times of fear and uncertainty in our lives.
Psalm 91:7 tells of the wide destruction that rages among the people, yet still God has His protective hand over His children. Read the following excerpt from the Treasury of David, “It shall not come nigh thee. It shall be so near as to be at thy side, and yet not nigh enough to touch thee; like a fire it shall burn all around, yet shall not the smell of it pass upon thee. How true is this of the plague of moral evil, of heresy, and of backsliding. Whole nations are infected, yet the man who communes with God is not affected by the contagion; he holds the truth when falsehood is all the fashion. Professors all around him are plague smitten, the church is wasted, the very life of religion decays, but in the same place and time, in fellowship with God, the believer renews his youth, and his soul knows no sickness. In a measure this also is true of physical evil; the Lord still puts a difference between Israel and Egypt in the day of his plagues. Sennacherib's army is blasted, but Jerusalem is in health.”
Evil and temptations, difficulties and discouragement, pain and suffering, and so many other adversities in life, surround us as we strive to live worthy as children of God. Although troubles may seem to encroach upon the believer, there is no need for us to become engrossed in them. We are safe in God’s hands. We can have complete confidence in His ways. God is our defense and our protection even when all those around us seem bent on evil and are suffering the results of sin immersed behaviors.
In verse 7 of Psalm 91, we are told that these attacks around us shall not approach us. But we do get hurt and we are affected so what does this mean? The word <nagash> used means these things won’t overtake us. In other words, we are secure in God’s hands and His care even though we may be acted upon by evil things around us. It is true that good men die but this is not apart from God’s allowance.
Isa 57:1-2 The righteous man perishes, and no man takes it to heart; And devout men are taken away, while no one understands. For the righteous man is taken away from evil, 2 He enters into peace; they rest in their beds, [Each one] who walked in his upright way.
With our focus on God, not matter the danger, there is no need to be overcome or overwhelmed by circumstances that seem to threaten us. God is always in control. No one is able to change my eternal destination. My future is always secure in my Savior.
Adam Clarke’s Commentary says we have “a promise of perfect protection, and the utmost safety”.
Psalm 91:8 says You will only look on with your eyes, And see the recompense of the wicked.
As we consider the perfect righteousness of God, there is an obvious punishment of those who choose to not follow Him. Exodus 34:6-7 speaks of God’s compassion and His judgement on those who reject Him.
Ex 34:6-7 Then the LORD passed by in front of him and proclaimed, "The LORD, the LORD God, compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in lovingkindness and truth; 7 who keeps lovingkindness for thousands, who forgives iniquity, transgression and sin; yet He will by no means leave [the guilty] unpunished, visiting the iniquity of fathers on the children and on the grandchildren to the third and fourth generations."
What is our response? Have we approached the throne of God with a heart yielded to Him, desiring to accept Him as our Lord and Savior?
If so, we will be intent on living for Him. We will acknowledge Him in all our ways. Then we will have the blessing of his mercy and protection and escape the judgement set aside for the wicked.
Pr 3:5-6 Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. 6 In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He will make your paths straight.
Ps 37:34 Wait for the LORD, and keep His way, And He will exalt you to inherit the land; When the wicked are cut off, you will see it.
We have been given incredible promises as God’s children! We have God’s protection, His defense, His deliverance and a refuge in Him. In God’s hands, we are secure and have no cause to fear evil or destruction.
Ge 15:1 After these things the word of the LORD came to Abram in a vision, saying, "Do not fear, Abram, I am a shield to you; Your reward shall be very great."
Ge 26:24 And the LORD appeared to him the same night and said, "I am the God of your father Abraham; Do not fear, for I am with you. I will bless you, and multiply your descendants, For the sake of My servant Abraham."
Ge 46:3 And He said, "I am God, the God of your father; do not be afraid to go down to Egypt, for I will make you a great nation there.
De 31:6 "Be strong and courageous, do not be afraid or tremble at them, for the LORD your God is the one who goes with you. He will not fail you or forsake you."
1Ch 28:20 Then David said to his son Solomon, "Be strong and courageous, and act; do not fear nor be dismayed, for the LORD God, my God, is with you. He will not fail you nor forsake you until all the work for the service of the house of the LORD is finished.
Isa 41:13 "For I am the LORD your God, who upholds your right hand, Who says to you, 'Do not fear, I will help you.'
Isa 43:1 But now, thus says the LORD, your Creator, O Jacob, And He who formed you, O Israel, "Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name; you are Mine!
Mt 10:28 "And do not fear those who kill the body, but are unable to kill the soul; but rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.
Lu 12:7 "Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear; you are of more value than many sparrows.
Ps 118:6 The LORD is for me; I will not fear;
What can man do to me?
Prayer is not an exercise we take part in; prayer is a tangible way of speaking to God with the expectation that He hears us and answers us.
What is prayer?
WordWeb defines prayer as “The act of communicating with a deity (especially as a petition or in adoration or contrition or thanksgiving); reverent petition to a deity; an earnest or urgent request”.
Prayer is the act of communicating with deity but not just any deity – the One True God. There is only one God of all creation, of the universe. Prayer to any other source will avail nothing.
De 4:35 "To you it was shown that you might know that the LORD, He is God; there is no other besides Him.
Isa 44:6 "Thus says the LORD, the King of Israel And his Redeemer, the LORD of hosts: 'I am the first and I am the last, and there is no God besides Me.
The nineteenth section in Psalm 119 begins with several verses devoted to David’s prayers to God.
Ps 119:145 I cried with all my heart; answer me, O LORD! I will observe Thy statutes.
Ps 119:146 I cried to Thee; save me, and I shall keep Thy testimonies.
Ps 119:147 I rise before dawn and cry for help; I wait for Thy words.
Ps 119:148 My eyes anticipate the night watches, that I may meditate on Thy word.
Psalm 119:145 begins with the words, “I cried with all my heart”.
The word for cried means to call out to someone. Notice how David cried – with all his heart. This makes me think of the difference between actual crying for a reason and whining. Whining is making a noise so others notice how unhappy you are. If you’ve ever experienced a three year old doing this, you get the picture!
God doesn’t want just our lip service. Those prayers memorized that are repeated over and over almost as a mantra may make us feel as if we’re doing something good, but do we even know what we’re saying? Is this type of prayer coming from a heart or from a mind that has learned to put words together that sound good? Words are only words. Prayer is not an exercise we take part in; prayer is a tangible way of speaking to God with the expectation that He hears us and answers us.
Consider the different types of conversations you might have with people. Some you’re fully engaged in, others are only informational and sometimes our conversations can be obligatory. Hopefully, we are fully engaged when praying to God, expecting truths from His word to affect our daily lives. Going to God with a heart of gratitude and recognized need is so much more than an obligation.
When we talk about the heart, we are speaking of the feelings, the will, the intellect and the center of who we are. Effective prayer to God needs to be with an understanding of who He is, who we are, and what He has done for us. In order to pray we need to be righteous before Him having accepted the gift of eternal life.
Pr 15:29 The LORD is far from the wicked, But He hears the prayer of the righteous.
Jas 5:16 Therefore, confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another, so that you may be healed. The effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much.
We have the example of praying with understanding. Often, people will say they are praying for something, or even praying for us. That’s good! But, just who are they praying too? Is it the God who saves them? Do they know the truth of the Gospel and the power of prayer offered to an Almighty God?
The Psalmist pleads with God to answer him, to hear him. David knows God hears him and because of God’s work in his life, David will be able to keep God’s commands. David’s whole heart is committed to prayer before God and he goes to God with a heart of obedience – desiring to keep God’s statutes.
It’s much like us praying to God, in a heartfelt petition, to help us continue on even when it’s really difficult. It’s like saying ‘I come before you God, fully committed to You, please assure me of your work in my life, so that in Your strength, I may keep walking forward’.
Ps 119:10 With all my heart I have sought Thee; do not let me wander from Thy commandments.
Are your affections and heart completely devoted to God? Do we cry to God in earnest? Does our petition include a desire to obey God’s commands?
Ps 62:8 Trust in Him at all times, O people; Pour out your heart before Him; God is a refuge for us. Selah.
We see another element of David’s prayer in Psalm 119:146.
Ps 119:146 I cried to Thee; save me, and I shall keep Thy testimonies.
The Psalmist understands his need for God’s work in his life, hence the request, ‘save me’.
Consider. What is the most important part of our relationship with God? What is our relationship with God based on? Because of God’s perfect love for us, He sent Jesus, His only Son, to suffer and die to pay the penalty for our sin. We need only to accept His gift of grace and desire to live in obedience. God is the only one who can save us. What does He save us from?
"Save me" from the dangers which surround me, from the enemies that pursue me, from the temptations which beset me, from the sins which accuse me.” Treasury of David
David is once again crying out to God in prayer and this time he requests God to save him, to defend and deliver him, to help him. And what is the Psalmist’s motivation and end to his request? “I shall keep Thy testimonies”.
Even though the Psalmist experienced danger and persecution from all around him, his main object in praying for God to save him was that he might be able to follow God’s commands and live a life worthy of his calling. There is no thought of ‘save me so I can do whatever I want or like’, only ‘save me so I can honor You’.
When we pray, what is our object – to request God’s supply so that we might serve Him more, or to request His comfort so we can continue serving ourselves?
“Brief as are the petitions, the whole compass of language could not make them more comprehensive.”Hear me." The soul is in earnest, the whole heart is engaged in the "cry." "Save me" -- includes a sinner's whole need -- pardon, acceptance, access, holiness, strength, comfort, heaven, -- all in one word -- Christ. The way of access is not indeed mentioned in these short ejaculations. But it is always implied in every moment's approach and address to the throne of grace. "Hear me" in the name of my all prevailing Advocate. "Save me" through him, whose name is Jesus the Saviour.” --Charles Bridges.
Ps 5:2 Heed the sound of my cry for help, my King and my God, For to Thee do I pray.
“Save me. From my sins, my corruptions, my temptations, all the hindrances that lie in my way, that I may "keep thy testimonies." We must cry for salvation, not that we may have the case and comfort of it, but that we may have an opportunity of serving God the more cheerfully.” --Matthew Henry.
In Psalm 119:145-146, we have the Psalmist continuing in prayer with an earnest cry to God with his whole heart in order that he might be able to keep God’s commands even in the midst of adversity, not to gain his own desires, but to please God by following Him. The Psalmist understood completely where his help came from, who his strength was, and his need for God’s saving grace. As we continue on to the next few verses we are given an idea when David prays.
Ps 119:147 I rise before dawn and cry for help; I wait for Thy words.
Ps 119:148 My eyes anticipate the night watches, that I may meditate on Thy word.
ALL THE TIME!
You may be thinking, ‘I’m not a morning person, though’. Certainly not as early as the implication in this scripture. Perhaps we need to look deeper at the intent of our Psalmist. He anticipated his time in prayer so highly that it caused him to rise early. So much was his desire to spend time with God that he simply couldn’t wait till morning light! And his desire continued on into the night so that when you would have expected him to sleep, he was still awake and in prayer with the God he loved.
Sometimes when something is on our mind, we have trouble sleeping. In those moments, where do you turn? What do you do? Perhaps the answer is the example we see in David – go to prayer. God hears us at any time.
Prayer was so vital to David’s relationship with God that it encompassed his day and night. We see the same devotion to prayer in Job’s life.
Job 23:12 "I have not departed from the command of His lips; I have treasured the words of His mouth more than my necessary food.
And there are several accounts recorded for us of Jesus being devoted to prayer.
Lu 6:12 And it was at this time that He went off to the mountain to pray, and He spent the whole night in prayer to God.
Mr 1:35 And in the early morning, while it was still dark, He arose and went out and departed to a lonely place, and was praying there.
The Treasury of David says of Psalm 119:147, “His supplications had become so frequent, fervent, and intense, that he might hardly be said to be doing anything else from morning to night but crying unto his God.”
In verse 147, it says “I wait for Thy words”. Wait can be translated hope, to be patient, to trust. This hope is a certain hope, not one that may or may not transpire, but a definite trust that God will answer prayer.
Hope is a necessary part of sincere prayer. Consider. If we did not have certain hope of God answering our prayers, how would our communication with God change? To be sincere in our prayer we must believe that God will hear us and will answer us. This doesn’t mean we will get what we ask for – we don’t even know what we really need – but, it does mean God will answer in His time and His way for His glory and our good. This we can be certain of. When we believe the answers are in God’s hands, we have cause for an earnest need of prayer, to come before Him with expectation of His blessings and answers.
When I was young, I prayed to many different statues and saints of old. I didn’t trust these pieces of stone and marble and non-living people for anything. There was certainly no real expectation of gaining from these prayers but in my understanding at that time, there was a certain amount of blessing bestowed on those who did these things. My prayers were half-hearted at best and absolutely without a genuine belief and trust that anything would happen. I did not have the hope our Psalmist speaks of in Psalm 119:147. David knew he was praying to the Living God.
The account of Daniel and the Lion’s Den, a story most of us are familiar with, in Daniel chapter 6, ends with this decree going out from king Darius:
Da 6:26 "I make a decree that in all the dominion of my kingdom men are to fear and tremble before the God of Daniel; For He is the living God and enduring forever, And His kingdom is one which will not be destroyed, And His dominion [will be] forever.
Daniel was saved by the Living God, not a god made by men, but the One True God who is able and desiring to answer His children who cry out to Him. Waiting expectantly for God’s answers to prayer is what compels us to fervent prayer! Do you view prayer as something you are supposed to do or is it a necessary part of your life?
“I wish that when I first open my eyes in the morning, I may then, in soul ejaculatory prayer, open my heart to my God, that at night prayer may make my bed soft, and lay my pillow easy; that in the daytime prayer may perfume my clothes, sweeten my food, oil the wheels of my particular vocation, keep me company upon all occasions, and gild over all my natural, civil, and religious actions. I wish that, after I have poured out my prayer in the name of Christ, according to the will of God, having sowed my seed, I may expect a crop, looking earnestly for the springing of it up, and believing assuredly that I shall reap in time if I faint not.” --George Swinnock.
Psalm 119:148 says, “My eyes anticipate the night watches”. Following is an explanation of what is meant by night watches.
“The Jews divided the night into three watches, which began at what we call six o'clock in the evening, and consisted each of four hours. The Romans taught them afterwards to divide it into four watches of three hours each; and to divide the day and night into twelve hours each; wherein different guards of soldiers were appointed to watch. At the proclaiming of each watch the psalmist appears to have risen and performed some act of devotion.” Adam Clarke’s Commentary
Whether we are called to be up at a specific time or go to bed at a specific time, doesn’t seem to be the path of this verse. However, the reminder to be in continuous prayer is clear. The word meditate is also used in reference to spending time in God’s word. This conveys the idea of pondering over the word. Thinking upon the word over and over was what caused David to have hope even when it was difficult. How do we know this? Because he has continually referenced his cry to God along with his desire to keep God’s commands. What was the fuel that kept our Psalmist going? Truth. Certain Hope. Trust.
In the Treasury of David, the Psalmist is described as an “ardent, earnest, and painstaking student” of God’s word. When we consider meditating on something, it means to think deeply over a period of time, to reflect on information we have. When applied to the word, this is so much more than checking off a box, completing our reading for the day.
Throughout Psalm 119, there are several instances of requesting understanding. As we cry to God with our hearts, seeking His answers, trusting in His work, and desiring to obey His commands; as we continuously pray and meditate on God’s word, He will give us understanding. What a privilege it is to know our Savior more and more!
What comes to mind is that often we need to go through a circumstance knowing that God’s promises are true and He will protect us. God always remains faithful to His character of perfect righteousness, and we can count on His guidance even in our most difficult times.
The eighteenth division of Psalm 119, beginning with verse 137 has been dealing with the perfect righteousness of God and His word. Even in the worst difficulties, we can have confidence in God’s faithfulness. The last two verses contained in this section continue on with the steadfast soul of David clinging to what he knows is true and seeking to find his preservation in God’s testimonies.
Ps 119:143-144 Trouble and anguish have come upon me; [Yet] Thy commandments are my delight. 144 Thy testimonies are righteous forever; Give me understanding that I may live.
You’ve heard the saying “caught between a rock and a hard place”. This is an idiom that basically means you are facing two equally unpleasant, dangerous, or risky alternatives, where the avoidance of one ensures encountering the harm of the other (idioms, thefreedictionary). Wiktionary explains this saying as “having the choice between two unpleasant or distasteful options; in a predicament or quandary”.
When our Psalmist speaks of trouble, this is the picture he is painting for us. The Hebrew word is tsar meaning narrow, a tight place, an opponent, adversary, affliction, or distress. Isn’t it true that sometimes we may feel there is no place to turn that will accommodate a pleasant outcome? What comes to mind is that often we need to go through a circumstance knowing that God’s promises are true and He will protect us. God always remains faithful to His character of perfect righteousness, and we can count on His guidance even in our most difficult times. David gives us an additional word for his plight: anguish. When I looked this word up in Strong’s Hebrew Dictionary, I read a similar definition that was given for ‘trouble’ above: a narrow place, confinement. The idea of being disabled by anguish or distress in his trouble is added. I think we are given insight into how pained our Psalmist is in his circumstances. The KJV says, ‘trouble and anguish have taken hold on me’. These are strong words and feelings that describe his suffering.
How do you react when adversity hits you like a ton of bricks, threatening to crush you? What are your options? In what ways are you tempted to react? What is our example?
Ps 119:143 Trouble and anguish have come upon me; [Yet] Thy commandments are my delight.
Incredible! Even in David’s suffering, we see his resolve to claim God’s righteousness and find joy in His truths! God’s commands are the Psalmist’s delight. He finds pleasure in them. If we back up a bit in this same Psalm, we read a similar verse.
Ps 119:77 May Thy compassion come to me that I may live, for Thy law is my delight.
We go through various trials, either from those trying to derail us or from our own foolish or sinful choices. Regardless, we will be tried. Sometimes, our troubles may not even be noticeable to others, they may come from within. We can be distracted in our soul. Do we cling to God’s truths and find delight in His commands in every circumstance? What specific truths can we hold onto that cause us to find joy?
The Gospel. Lu 2:10-11 And the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of a great joy which shall be for all the people; 11 for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.
God called you. Jer 15:16 Thy words were found and I ate them, and Thy words became for me a joy and the delight of my heart; for I have been called by Thy name, O LORD God of hosts.
God is faithful, even when we are not. 2Ti 2:13 If we are faithless, He remains faithful; for He cannot deny Himself.
God knows all things and sees all things correctly. Psalm 139:1-5
We can trust in His promises. Pr 3:5 Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.
We could go on and on with the above list. As we look upon the truths in God’s word, no matter what troubles we are experiencing, we can find delight. There is repetition of David constantly being drawn to focus on God even in the midst of difficult circumstances. I love the reminder we see in this repetition – We have a need to continuously look to God and His truths and promises even when things seem to overwhelm us. All throughout Psalm 119, the importance of clinging to God’s faithfulness and righteousness is proclaimed.
Ps 119:14 I have rejoiced in the way of Thy testimonies, As much as in all riches.
Ps 119:142 Thy righteousness is an everlasting righteousness, and Thy law is truth.
Read what Matthew Henry’s Commentary says, “All this trouble and anguish did not put his mouth out of taste for the comforts of the word of God, but he could still relish them and find that peace and pleasure in them which all the calamities of this present time could not deprive him of. There are delights, variety of delights, in the word of God, which the saints have often the sweetest enjoyment of when they are in trouble and anguish”.
2Co 1:5 For just as the sufferings of Christ are ours in abundance, so also our comfort is abundant through Christ.
What do we find ourselves thinking about – the riches we have in Christ or our worldly problems? Are we meditating on the word of God and His eternal promise to us?
It is not easy to avoid the vices that cause us to lose hope in this world, yet, hope placed in God is never lost, instead it is certain, absolute. When we feel as if there is no hope, our thinking needs to change. How can our thoughts be redirected? We’ve been given the answer in the next verse of this section in Psalm 119.
Ps 119:144 Thy testimonies are righteous forever; Give me understanding that I may live.
Here is our request to God – “give me understanding that I may live”. God is the one who gives us the mindset to focus on His truths. God is the one who gives us understanding of His promises. God restores our hope, He preserves and protects us, He is our salvation.
We can pray to God for more understanding, more peace, more hope, more strength and anything and everything else needed to continue to live according to His commands, with a heart of joy. We have a promise that we will live forever in heaven! In the meantime, we can count on God’s grace for comfort as we go through trials.
We can spend more time in God’s word for more understanding. What better thing is there to do when you are discouraged or feel like giving up than to go to the source of eternal joy?
Consider. What does forever mean? The Hebrew word owlam means the vanishing point; generally, time out of mind, eternity, everlasting. The word forever in our English language is used in a blasé manner for many things. We use phrases like, “I will love you forever or this or that forever” but what we really mean is, “until a better substitute is found”. We are a finicky people and have good intentions much of the time, but often, we are unable to follow through. God’s forever is vastly different. When we read that His word is righteous forever there is no underlying possibility of change. Therein is our hope. Therein is our joy. God’s children have a promise of life eternal. It is certain and affords us the ability to continue on through any difficult circumstance with a heart centered on Truth.
What is the alternative to having certain hope? Death. Life without God leads to death, eternal separation from Him and all that is true. We are either saved by God’s grace or condemned by our sin.
Review the eighteenth section of Psalm 119.
God is righteous (Ps 119:137); God’s judgments are righteous (Ps 119:138); God’s word is righteous and leads us to a zeal that pines for those who do not follow Him (Ps 119:139); God’s word is pure and leads us to a love for it (Ps 119:140); Even when we feel small and despised, we are upheld by God’s word (Ps 119:141); God’s righteousness is everlasting and true (Ps 119:142); and we can take delight in God’s word no matter the trouble that surrounds us (Ps 119:143).
The above is true joy, joy that is only found in Him, joy that understands that without the precious gift of Jesus Christ, my sin will lead to the certainty of death and separation from God rather than eternal life. The Psalmist understood this. Do you? The Psalmist embraced these truths. Do you?
Patrick/Lowth/Whitby/Lowman Commentary makes this statement, “all the declarations Thou hast made of Thy will to us are so just and true that they will never fail our expectation: O give me wisdom to order my life according to them! And then it shall not be in the power of my enemies to make me miserable”.
Ps 119:34 Give me understanding, that I may observe Thy law, and keep it with all [my] heart.
Ps 119:66 Teach me good discernment and knowledge, for I believe in Thy commandments.
2Co 4:6 For God, who said, "Light shall shine out of darkness," is the One who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ.
1Jo 5:20-21 And we know that the Son of God has come, and has given us understanding, in order that we might know Him who is true, and we are in Him who is true, in His Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God and eternal life. 21 Little children, guard yourselves from idols.
Joh 17:3 "And this is eternal life, that they may know Thee, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom Thou hast sent.
Isa 43:11 "I, even I, am the LORD; and there is no savior besides Me.
“God's testimonies to man cannot be assailed, they are righteous from beginning to end; and though ungodly men have opposed the divine justice, especially in the plan of salvation, they have always failed to establish any charge against the Most High. Long as the earth shall stand, long as there shall be a single intelligent creature in the universe, it will be confessed that God's plans of mercy are in all respects marvellous proofs of his love of justice: even that he may be gracious Jehovah will not be unjust.” Treasury of David
Join with me in praying all the more for understanding of God’s word, for increased love for His truths, that by it we can live in the joy of God’s promises through all circumstances. “Give me understanding that I may live” – this is the gospel. Grasp it, Claim it, Trust in it, and Share it.
Even in the things that threaten to break our peace, we can know that God is aware of all things and in Him there is rest. God’s preparation is always perfect, affording us what is needed, blessing us according to His bountiful grace.
Fall is settling in. The nights are becoming cool, the air feels crisp. One by one, leaves are beginning to turn color and float to their resting place on the ground. I’m thinking about pumpkins and warm cinnamon spiced apple cider. This year, our east coast family will be joining us for Thanksgiving. My heart swells with the thought of having all my children and grandchildren together under one roof. Of course, this means I will be planning and preparing what I hope will be a safe, restful place where we can relax and enjoy one another along with some delicious food. The cloth napkins will be ironed, the table set just so, the rooms made ready for those visiting. As we gather together, our hearts will be united in our thanksgiving to God for His grace in our lives. My cup overflows.
Ps 23:5 Thou dost prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; Thou hast anointed my head with oil; my cup overflows.
Prepare <arak> to set in a row, arrange, put in order, direct, handle, prepare
When we speak of preparing something, we are getting something ready for a particular purpose. We may prepare for a visit by packing, we may prepare food to eat. We prepare for things all day long as we follow schedules or anticipate events. When you consider the act of preparation, usually you have something or someone in mind. Even the simple act of preparing for the day ahead involves thinking about the activities you may be involved in, what clothing you might need and where you should be at what time.
I have often forgotten to bring something with me or have picked up just what I need at the store except one item! Even with a list, I can fall short of preparing things the exact way I imagined. I’ve taken a wrong turn in following directions and then even in all my good intentions, I can run out of time and find myself late for whatever I was supposed to be ready for. In Psalm 23:5, David tells us that God prepares a table before him in the presence of his enemies. Consider the character of God – He is perfect. There will be nothing forgotten or left out. God’s provision is perfect even in the midst of others seeking to destroy David.
This conveys a picture of calm in the midst of a storm. All around may be adversity yet we can have peace and confidence in God’s perfect security, and His preparation for His children. We don’t have people waiting to harm us as the Psalmist did, but we do have distractions. Even in the things that threaten to break our peace, we can know that God is aware of all things and in Him there is rest. God’s preparation is always perfect, affording us what is needed, blessing us according to His bountiful grace.
Adam Clarke’s Commentary says this about the beginning of Psalm 23:5 – “Here the second allegory begins. A magnificent banquet is provided by a most liberal and benevolent host; who has not only the bounty to feed me, but power to protect me; and, though surrounded by enemies, I sit down to this table with confidence, knowing that I shall feast in perfect security.”
Consider. Where do your blessings come from? Where does your help come from? When have you experienced ‘calm’ in the midst of a storm? Who is responsible for the peace you can have when things are difficult?
2Th 3:16 Now may the Lord of peace Himself continually grant you peace in every circumstance. The Lord be with you all!
Php 4:7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, shall guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
God’s children are blessed with His extraordinary kindness. He not only provides food, but a feast, a most sumptuous feast, with great care and order, set before His children. (cf Patrick/Lowth/Whitby/Lowman Commentary)
Ps 22:26 The afflicted shall eat and be satisfied; those who seek Him will praise the LORD. Let your heart live forever!
Ps 31:19 How great is Thy goodness, Which Thou hast stored up for those who fear Thee, Which Thou hast wrought for those who take refuge in Thee, before the sons of men!
Joh 10:9 "I am the door; if anyone enters through Me, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture.
“Oh! The peace which Jehovah gives to his people, even in the midst of the most trying circumstances!” Treasury of David
Ps 23:5 Thou dost prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; Thou hast anointed my head with oil; my cup overflows.
We need to look back at the custom of the day to understand better the meaning of anointing someone with oil. A distinguished guest at a feast would have perfumed oil poured on their head. “In the East the people frequently anoint their visitors with some very fragrant perfume; and give them a cup or glass of some choice wine, which they are careful to fill till it runs over. The first was designed to show their love and respect; the latter to imply that while they remained there, they should have an abundance of everything. To something of this kind the psalmist probably alludes in this passage.” Samuel Burder, TOD. Remember the account in the Gospels, of the woman who poured oil on Jesus’s head. She was doing what was customary and had been neglected. This was a picture of her placing honor on Jesus and believing in Him.
Mt 26:6-7 Now when Jesus was in Bethany, at the home of Simon the leper, 7 a woman came to Him with an alabaster vial of very costly perfume, and she poured it upon His head as He reclined [at the table.]
Perhaps the picture for us is the anointing of the Holy Spirit within our lives as God’s children. Each day and in every circumstance we can be refreshed in the presence of God. His grace is available to us, we need only to stop and be filled. One commentary said that anointing oil was the symbol of gladness.
“Thou anointest my head with oil. Thou hast not confined thy bounty merely to the necessaries of life, but thou hast supplied me also with its luxuries.” In A plain Explanation of Difficult Passages in the Psalms, 1831.
“…the precious perfumed oil of thy grace which thou dost mysteriously pour upon our souls” Jean Baptiste Massillon, 1663-1742, TOD
Joh 14:26 "But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all that I said to you.
1Jo 2:27 And as for you, the anointing which you received from Him abides in you, and you have no need for anyone to teach you; but as His anointing teaches you about all things, and is true and is not a lie, and just as it has taught you, you abide in Him.
The last part of Psalm 23:5 reads “My cup overflows”. We will never run out of God’s provision. His protection, His peace and calm even in the midst of difficulty, and His loving care for us is readily available to all who love Him. And His provisions are more than enough, overflowing in their bounty.
Ps 23:5 Thou dost prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; Thou hast anointed my head with oil; my cup overflows.
Something that overflows signifies a surplus. Do you see the blessings of God flooding your life? Do you take the time to recognize His outpouring of love upon you?
Ps 16:5 The LORD is the portion of my inheritance and my cup; Thou dost support my lot.
Our Psalmist recognized God’s overabundance of blessings in his life. Even while his enemies planned evil against him, they found themselves looking on, perhaps in envy, at the least in amazement, at the supply of God’s blessings in David’s life. We have a picture of reliance on God for His blessings and trusting in Him through difficulties and dangers.
The truths in Psalm 23:5 should provoke a response from us. Read the verse again.
Ps 23:5 Thou dost prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; Thou hast anointed my head with oil; my cup overflows.
Ps 116:12-13 What shall I render to the LORD For all His benefits toward me? 13 I shall lift up the cup of salvation, and call upon the name of the LORD.
Eph 3:20-21 Now to Him who is able to do exceeding abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, 21 to Him [be] the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen.
Thank you God for Your abundant care in all circumstances; thank you God for the gift of Your Holy Spirit and Your guidance; thank you God for the numerous and overflowing blessings poured out upon Your children. It is for God’s glory that we call upon His name as we recognize His abundant blessings in our lives. It is for God’s glory that we rely upon His provision in the midst of all circumstances as we expectantly wait on His plan. It is for God’s glory that others see His work in our lives in the hope that they also repent and seek righteousness through Jesus Christ, God’s only begotten Son.
So what do we build our standard of righteousness on? Intelligence, observance, understanding, research, history?
Where do you turn in adversity? Where is your hope? Where is your righteousness found?
In Psalm 119:137-140 we read about God’s righteousness and perfect judgment, the faithfulness of His word, David’s anger towards those who had forgotten God’s word, and the Psalmist’s contemplation on the purity of God’s word. Also, in verse 140, we read how these truths led David to love God’s word. (Ps 119:137 part 1, Pondering God’s Purity; Ps 119:137 part 2, Unwavering and Upright; Ps 119:138 part 1, Exceeding Faithfulness; Ps 119:138 part 2, A Charge to Obedience; Ps 119:139, What Makes You Zealous?; Ps 119:140, What Do You Love?) Continuing on in Psalm119:141, it says, “I am small and despised. [Yet] I do not forget Thy precepts”.
Small <tsa’lyr> little; (in number) few; (in age) young; (in value) ignoble:--least, little (one), small (one).
Have you ever felt small and despised? How would you define what it means to say or think this about yourself?
WordWeb defines small as 1. Limited or below average in number or quantity or magnitude or extent; 2. Limited in size or scope; 3. (of children and animals) young, immature; 4. Low or inferior in station or quality. The definition goes on to explain that you can be made to seem small or less (especially in worth), and finally, slight or limited, especially in degree or intensity or scope.
I had to look up the word ‘ignoble’ listed in the Strong’s definition above. This word means to be completely lacking nobility in character, quality or purpose (WordWeb).
Would it be fair to say that David is feeling some adversity? He felt himself small and despised by others. Despised, used in Ps 119:141, is a strong word meaning to disdain or be contemptible or scorned.
“His enemies made no account of him, regarded him as a man without power or ability, and therefore looked down upon him. He appears to accept the situation and humbly take the lowest room, but he carries God’s word with him. How many a man has been driven to do some ill action in order to reply to the contempt of his enemies: to make himself conspicuous he has either spoken or acted in a manner which he could not justify. The beauty of the Psalmist’s piety was that it was calm and well balanced, and as he was not carried away by flattery, so was he not overcome by shame. If small, he the more jealously attended to the smaller duties; and if despised, he was the more in earnest to keep the despised commandments of God”. Treasury of David
First, consider why David was in this position.
Second, consider what David’s reaction is to his position.
Third, consider where he turned in recognition to his position.
Why was David in this position? Because he loved and followed God. His faithfulness to God bothered others. Consider what happens when people begin to feel uncomfortable or even ‘guilty’ around others. Often, instead of noting their own error, they attack or belittle someone who is standing out and doing the right thing. The world easily scorns those who try to live according to God’s laws. Recall how David was overlooked even in his own family (1 Sam 16:11). Read Isaiah’s account of how others reacted to Jesus.
Isa 53:3 He was despised and forsaken of men, A man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief; And like one from whom men hide their face, He was despised, and we did not esteem Him.
But what is the truth? – In the case of Jesus, He is God, Truth itself – there is none higher! And in the eyes of God, David had great value, as do all His children.
What was David’s reaction to his position? Although David feels himself small and despised, his reaction is to remain faithful to God’s word. Think how easy it might have been for the Psalmist to buckle under pressure. He could have at least decided to keep quiet about his faith or tried to look like he fit in with those who could cause him harm. But that’s not what we see. He does not fear man more than God.
Matthew Henry’s Commentary says this: “David poor and yet pious, small and despised for his strict and serious godliness, yet his conscience can witness for him that he did not forget God’s precepts. He would not throw off his religion, though it exposed him to contempt, for he knew that was designed to try his constancy. When we are small and despised we have the more need to remember God’s precepts, that we may have them to support us under the pressures of a low condition.”
Where did David turn? Adversity caused David to turn towards God, to continue to regard God’s law. God was his strength and support even in the toughest times. Our example is that even when our place in life seems uncertain, what we can and should do is turn towards God even more. In verse 139 of this Psalm, we read of the anger that David felt because of those who had forgotten God. In verse 141 we see his resignation to remain faithful. It didn’t matter how much he felt persecuted or how lowly he felt, he would not forget God’s precepts, rather, the Psalmist turns harder towards them.
Where is our hope? Do we turn towards God’s promises when we feel inferior to the world? Where does our worth come from? Are we counting on who we are here or who we are in God?
Ps 40:17 Since I am afflicted and needy, Let the Lord be mindful of me; Thou art my help and my deliverer; do not delay, O my God.
1Pe 5:6-7 Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time, 7 casting all your anxiety upon Him, because He cares for you.
Jas 2:5 Listen, my beloved brethren: did not God choose the poor of this world [to be] rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom which He promised to those who love Him?
We all know people who’ve run from God or chosen to deny the Truth because things didn’t go the way they thought it should or life became too difficult. Often, unfaithfulness is the route taken in adversity. This is contrary to the example seen in Psalm 119:141.
Consider: people are difficult. This should be no surprise, we are born in sin. Ps 51:5 Behold, I was brought forth in iniquity, and in sin my mother conceived me. We are born to trouble. Job 5:7 For man is born for trouble, as sparks fly upward.
But, God is faithful, always. Look at the next verse in Psalm 119.
Ps 119:142 Thy righteousness is an everlasting righteousness, and Thy law is truth.
God’s righteousness – different than the righteousness we may talk of on earth or given by men.
Righteousness <tsedek> to be (causatively, make) right; cleanse, clear self; be justified; turn to righteousness
“It signifies, not only God's inherent righteousness and perfection of nature, but also his method of treating others; his plan of redemption; his method of saving others.” Adam Clarke’s Commentary
God’s word is righteousness itself, it is the standard of righteousness and it will last forever, beyond time. It is everlasting – the same at all times and in all places to all peoples in all things.
“It is the rule of God's judgment, and it is consonant to his counsels from eternity and will direct his sentence for eternity. The word of God will judge us, it will judge us in righteousness, and by it our everlasting state will be determined. This should possess us with a very great reverence for the word of God that it is righteousness itself, the standard of righteousness, and it is everlasting in its rewards and punishments.” Matthew Henry’s Commentary on the Whole Bible
Consider. Man’s definition of righteousness from WordWeb. “An internal sense of righteousness”; adhering to moral principles, morality. Being righteous is characterized by or proceeding from accepted standards of morality or justice.
You can immediately see what is wrong with the above definition! Man’s rules of right and wrong change. What may have been considered unacceptable fifty years ago or even twenty years ago is readily accepted now by majority consensus. There are even examples each of us can think of in just the last few years of the accepted standards of morality changing in our nation and even in the world. So what do we build our standard of righteousness on? Intelligence, observance, understanding, research, history? The one thing these all have in common are change and men. Change is the opposite of everlasting and no man is perfect. Where does that leave man’s righteousness? Certainly it cannot be compared to the righteousness of God which is everlasting and perfect.
Ps 111:3 Splendid and majestic is His work; And His righteousness endures forever.
“The principles of God's government are permanent and reliable, and in the deepest distress His people find them a theme of delightful meditation and a source of reviving power”. Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Commentary
Psalm 119:142 goes on to say, Thy law is truth. God’s precepts, His statutes, His word, His commands – one and the same, are truth, not just the way we think of in something being true as in accuracy or consistency with fact or reality, but Truth itself, with a capital “T”. Again, consider what man basis his truth on. Because of our imperfectness, our truths can change. Consider the many times you hear of a conviction of law and sentencing to be overturned as new facts are uncovered. God’s Truth is absolute, it is certain, it will never be found in error. It cannot deceive.
Truth <emeth> stability; certainty, trustworthiness: assuredly, establishment, faithful, right, sure, truth, verity.
Ps 19:9 The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring forever; the judgments of the LORD are true; they are righteous altogether.
Ps 119:151 Thou art near, O LORD, and all Thy commandments are truth.
Just as David learned to move towards God in adversity and looked to God for righteousness and truth, we have action to take. Read below how Jesus answered Pilate’s question of Him before He was sentenced to crucifixion.
Joh 18:37 Pilate therefore said to Him, "So You are a king?" Jesus answered, "You say [correctly] that I am a king. For this I have been born, and for this I have come into the world, to bear witness to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth hears My voice."
This answers the question, how was David able to turn towards God when he felt so attacked, so insignificant, so small. God’s truth, God’s absolute and eternal justice is heard and understood by those He calls. Are we moved to live according to what we know, even if we are not liked because of it? David chose to continue to serve God and to remember God’s word. He took encouragement in the righteousness and absolute truths of God’s word. Read the encouragement in Paul’s letter to the church in 2 Thessalonians Chapter 1.
2Th 1:6-12 For after all it is [only] just for God to repay with affliction those who afflict you, 7 and [to give] relief to you who are afflicted and to us as well when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with His mighty angels in flaming fire, 8 dealing out retribution to those who do not know God and to those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus. 9 And these will pay the penalty of eternal destruction, away from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of His power, 10 when He comes to be glorified in His saints on that day, and to be marveled at among all who have believed--for our testimony to you was believed. 11 To this end also we pray for you always that our God may count you worthy of your calling, and fulfill every desire for goodness and the work of faith with power; 12 in order that the name of our Lord Jesus may be glorified in you, and you in Him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Ps 119:141-142 I am small and despised, [Yet] I do not forget Thy precepts. 142 Thy righteousness is an everlasting righteousness, and Thy law is truth.
Our value is in Christ. Our worth comes from following God. David turned towards God when he felt insignificant in the world because he understood who he was – a child redeemed by the most precious sacrifice known to man – Jesus! Feeling adversity is not necessarily bad if it is for the right reasons, it reminds us who we are, who God is and our need of Him. If our hope is placed in God, we are standing on perfect righteousness, never to be shaken.
“Thy word is very pure. It is truth distilled, holiness in its quintessence. In the word of God there is no admixture of error or sin. It is pure in its sense, pure in its language, pure in its spirit, pure in its influence, and all this to the very highest degree — “very pure.” Treasury of David
4
Are you able to fully appreciate something you don’t understand?
Consider. An artist probably gets more excited about color and placement than a banker. A chef certainly appreciates the quality and availability of food ingredients. You likely value the things you are interested in and have knowledge of more than those things that you have difficulty comprehending.
An understanding of who God is leads to a right appreciation of His word.
What we love is what we serve. Praise God that He, in His mercy, has opened our hearts to see Him. A love for God produces a life with purpose to serve God along with the desire to want others to love God. It’s a good expectation to want for others what we have in Christ; thankfulness and a need to share Truth should be applied in the lives of all God’s children. Is your compassion growing for those who don’t know God? In Psalm 119:139, David conveyed how his excitement for God led him to despair for those not following God. Ps 119:139 My zeal has consumed me, because my adversaries have forgotten Thy words. Now, in verse 140, the Psalmist recounts the purity of God’s word and the resulting love he has for it.
Ps 119:140 Thy word is very pure, therefore Thy servant loves it.
What is our subject?
What is the quality of our subject?
What is the result of understanding the quality of the subject?
The Subject – Thy word. God’s commands. The truths that reveal His will. His word that gives direction. God’s faithful promises to His children. God’s laws.
Read the excerpt below from the Treasury of David:
Thy word. Let us refresh our minds and our memories with some of the Scripture adjuncts connected with "the word," and realize, in some degree at least, the manifold relations which it bears both to God and our souls. It is called "the word of Christ," because much of it was given by him, and it all bears testimony to him...It is called "the word of his grace," because the glorious theme on which it loves to expatiate is grace, and especially grace as it is seen in Christ's dying love for sinful men. It is called ololov tou staurou, "the word of the cross" (1Co 1:18 For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.), because in the crucifixion of the divine Redeemer we see eternal mercy in its brightest lustre. It is called "the word of the gospel," because it brings glad tidings of great joy to all nations. It is called "the word of the kingdom," because it holds out to all believers the hope of an everlasting kingdom of righteousness and peace. It is called "the word of salvation," because the purpose for which it was given is the salvation of sinners. It is called "the word of truth," because, as Chillingworth says, it has God for its author, salvation for its end, and truth without mixture of error for its contents. And we will only add, it is called "the word of life," because it reveals to a sinful, perishing world the doctrines of life and immortality. --IV. Graham, in "A Commentary on the First Epistle of John," 1857. (Emphasis added)
Thy word. Food for the soul – Deut 8:3 "And He humbled you and let you be hungry, and fed you with manna which you did not know, nor did your fathers know, that He might make you understand that man does not live by bread alone, but man lives by everything that proceeds out of the mouth of the LORD.
Thy word. Alive and working in the hearts of men – Heb 4:12 For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart.
Thy word. Powerful – Jer 23:29 "Is not My word like fire?" declares the LORD, "and like a hammer which shatters a rock?
Thy word. Enduring forever –
Isa 40:8 The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God stands forever.
Mt 5:18 "For truly I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not the smallest letter or stroke shall pass away from the Law, until all is accomplished.
Thy word. Converts souls, gives wisdom, rejoices the heart, gives understanding, endures forever, is completely righteous, more valuable than fine gold, sweeter than honey, gives warning, and rewards those who are faithful.
Ps 19:7-11 The law of the LORD is perfect, restoring the soul; the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple. 8 The precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes. 9 The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring forever; the judgments of the LORD are true; they are righteous altogether. 10 They are more desirable than gold, yes, than much fine gold; sweeter also than honey and the drippings of the honeycomb. 11 Moreover, by them Thy servant is warned; in keeping them there is great reward.
The Quality of the Subject – very pure.
Psalm 119:140 says, Thy word is very pure. Pure. What does it mean to be pure?
Pure <tsaraph> to fuse (metal), i.e. refine (literally or figuratively):--cast, refiner, founder, goldsmith, melt, pure, purge away, try.
When something is refined, the impurities are removed, making it perfect.
Notice the adjective attached to pure: very. Meaning, vehemently or exceedingly; this is an intense word full of action. Look at Hebrews 4:12 again. Heb 4:12 For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart.
The action of God’s word is pure. It purges away the sin in man; it cleanses a heart from impurities.
In Judges Chapter 7, God tests <tsaraph> the hearts of men to assemble Gideon’s army.
Ps 17:3 Thou hast tried my heart; Thou hast visited [me] by night; Thou hast tested <tsaraph> me and dost find nothing; I have purposed that my mouth will not transgress.
Ps 26:2 Examine me, O LORD, and try me; Test <tsaraph> my mind and my heart.
Ps 66:10 For Thou hast tried us, O God; Thou hast refined <tsaraph> us as silver is refined.
Isa 48:10 "Behold, I have refined <tsaraph> you, but not as silver; I have tested you in the furnace of affliction.
The quality of God’s word is pure. The word reflects the holiness of God.
2Sa 22:31 "As for God, His way is blameless; the word of the LORD is tested <tsaraph>; He is a shield to all who take refuge in Him.
Ps 12:6 The words of the LORD are pure words; as silver tried <tsaraph> in a furnace on the earth, refined seven times.
Ps 18:30 As for God, His way is blameless; the word of the LORD is tried <tsaraph>; He is a shield to all who take refuge in Him.
“David's great affection for the word of God: Thy servant loves it. Every good man, being a servant of God, loves the word of God, because it lets him know his Master's will and directs him in his Master's work. Wherever there is grace there is a warm attachment to the word of God. … Our love to the word of God is then an evidence of our love to God when we love it for the sake of its purity, because it bears the image of God's holiness and is designed to make us partakers of his holiness. It commands purity, and, as it is itself refined from all corrupt mixture, so if we receive it in the light and love of it, it will refine us from the dross of worldliness and fleshly-mindedness.” Matthew Henry’s Commentary
Several months ago, we looked at Psalm 119:128. In it, David explained his love for God’s word, Ps 119:128 Therefore I esteem right all [Thy] precepts concerning everything, I hate every false way.
“‘Gold hath need to be refined; but thy word is purity itself.’—The figurative term used in the original, denotes the purity of the sacred scriptures; which reflect the holiness of the Lord’s character and government, and require of us, and lead us ‘to purity of heart and life.’ This purity of the scriptures the carnal mind dislikes; but the spiritually-minded love and relish it, and they perceive it equally in the righteous precepts as in the faithful promises; and therefore they love the whole word of God.” Thomas Scott
“Thy word is very pure. It is truth distilled, holiness in its quintessence. In the word of God there is no admixture of error or sin. It is pure in its sense, pure in its language, pure in its spirit, pure in its influence, and all this to the very highest degree -- "very pure." Treasury of David
God’s word is pure in its essence and is pure in its efficacy.
Consider. If you are a true believer in Jesus Christ then you understand that God’s word is perfect and holy and you can’t help but love it! How have you recognized the power of God’s word in your own life? How has the Word changed your thoughts, your actions, and your desires?
The Result of Understanding the Quality of The Word – Therefore Thy servant loves it. These are the words David uses as he concludes Psalm 119:140. The result of understanding the purity of God’s word and the work it does in the heart of a believer, leads to a great affection towards it.
Think of using a strainer in the kitchen. You pour whatever is mixed through a sieve to catch the stuff you don’t want. Often, this has to be repeated several times until there is nothing left except what is useful and good. The working of God’s word exposes sin. It’s as if every corner of our hearts and minds are sifted through as we are transformed more into His likeness. The opposite of being pure is impure – having blemishes or stain or extraneous elements. As we look at our own lives, it is not difficult to recognize the dross. We need the purity of God’s word to constantly expose that which is relevant and important and true and that which is unnecessary.
In John 15:3 we read Jesus’ words to the disciples after the traitor Judas was gone from them. As they spent time with Jesus, their lives had been purged from their previous ways of sin.
Joh 15:3 "You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you.
“It is this, its pure quality combined with its tendency to purify every nature that yields to its holy influence, that endears it to every child of God. Here it is that he finds those views of the divine character, those promises, those precepts, those representations of the deformity of sin, of the beauty of holiness, which lead him, above all things, to seek conformity to the divine image. A child of God in his best moments does not wish the word of God brought down to a level with his own imperfect character, but desires rather that his character may be gradually raised to a conformity to that blessed word. Because it is altogether pure, and because it tends to convey to those who make it their constant study a measure of its own purity, the child of God loves it, and delights to meditate in it day and night.” – John Morison.
The love of God’s word could not be ours without His love first shown towards us.
Eph 2:4-5 But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, 5 even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved),
1Jo 4:10 In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son [to be] the propitiation for our sins.
God’s word transforms.
2Pe 1:3-8 seeing that His divine power has granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness, through the true knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence. 4 For by these He has granted to us His precious and magnificent promises, in order that by them you might become partakers of [the] divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world by lust. 5 Now for this very reason also, applying all diligence, in your faith supply moral excellence, and in [your] moral excellence, knowledge; 6 and in [your] knowledge, self-control, and in [your] self-control, perseverance, and in [your] perseverance, godliness; 7 and in [your] godliness, brotherly kindness, and in [your] brotherly kindness, love. 8 For if these [qualities] are yours and are increasing, they render you neither useless nor unfruitful in the true knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.
The truth of Psalm 119:140 – Thy word is very pure – provokes a response. Does it lead you to love God’s word? What does it mean to love God’s word? When we say we love something there is a person or thing that is the recipient of that affection. Whether it’s a food we love to eat or a person we love to be with or an activity we love to participate in. Loving something or someone typically leads to an action.
"Therefore thy servant loveth it," which is a proof that he himself was pure in heart, for only those who are pure love God's word because of its purity. His heart was knit to the word because of its glorious holiness and truth. He admired it, delighted in it, sought to practise it, and longed to come under its purifying power.” Treasury of David
God’s response to His perfect love for us led Him to send Jesus to the earth, to suffer and die on a cross, to pay the penalty we owe, so that we could be with Him eternally.
Col 1:21-22 And although you were formerly alienated and hostile in mind, [engaged] in evil deeds, 22 yet He has now reconciled you in His fleshly body through death, in order to present you before Him holy and blameless and beyond reproach—
What is your response to the purity of God’s word? Do you willingly place yourself as a servant of the Lord, just as David call himself, to be subject to His word and live accordingly?
We live in a fallen world and bad things happen. But there is no reason to fear any calamity meant for evil against God. He is greater than all things on earth and He gives His children eternal protection. There is still suffering in this world because of man’s sin, but in the midst we can have peace from the knowledge that God is in control and will cause all things for His purpose and glory.
Psalm 23:4
Ps 23:1-4 (A Psalm of David.) The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not want. 2 He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters. 3 He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness For His name's sake. 4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil; for Thou art with me; Thy rod and Thy staff, they comfort me.
God cares for us. He provides what we need, He gives us rest and peace even in difficulty, He revives us, and He is our perfect Guide – all for the glory of His name. These truths give us comfort. Verse 4 of Psalm 23, shares a bit of bad news along with some good news. It begins with the phrase, “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death”.
What is the ‘valley of the shadow of death’?
Remember, David is the writer of this Psalm and he is in fear of his life. Reference to the valley of the shadow of death can be literal or figurative. In the book of Jeremiah, Israel’s time of wandering in the desert makes a reference to the shadow of death. A historical account of the time this Psalm was written stated that a common practice was to line soldiers up on each high side of a valley that others would need to pass through in traveling. You can imagine having no choice but to move forward knowing that high above you on each side attack may come at any time. Perhaps you have felt the threat of death in a situation, either from circumstances brought on by danger, difficulties or health. Job also refers to the shadow of death during his time of loss and suffering. While we may never experience the specific situation David refers to, we will enter into rough times – the valley.
Jer 2:6 Neither said they, where is the LORD that brought us up out of the land of Egypt, that led us through the wilderness, through a land of deserts and of pits, through a land of drought, and of the shadow of death, through a land that no man passed through, and where no man dwelt?
Job 10:21 Before I go whence I shall not return, even to the land of darkness and the shadow of death (KJV)
Matthew Poole’s Commentary explains the valley of the shadow of death as “through a dark and dismal valley, full of terrors and dangers”.
Even those who know God enter into times of hardship. In fact we are told that we will experience difficulties on this earth in John 16:33 – “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world." But still there is hope in this ‘valley of darkness’. So the bad news is that we can all expect difficult times. We will go through times when we feel as if we are in ‘the valley of the shadow of death’. The good news is, the child of God has no reason to fear! Psalm 23:4 says, ‘I fear no evil; for Thou art with me;’
Ps 27:1 ([A Psalm] of David.) The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The LORD is the defense of my life; whom shall I dread?
Ps 118:6 The LORD is for me; I will not fear; what can man do to me?
Isa 43:2 "When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they will not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched, nor will the flame burn you.
It is important to note that we will face hardship and even physical death. We will have seasons of extraordinary distress in our lives. We live in a fallen world and bad things happen. But there is no reason to fear any calamity meant for evil against God. He is greater than all things on earth and He gives His children protection. There is still suffering in this world because of man’s sin, but in the midst we can have peace from the knowledge that God is in control and will cause all things for His purpose and glory.
Ro 8:28 And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to [His] purpose.
Ro 8:35-39 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written, for thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. (KJV)
Ro 5:3-4 And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; and patience, experience; and experience, hope:
“Though I, as one of the flock, should walk through the most dismal valley, in the dead of the night, exposed to pitfalls, precipices, devouring beasts, &c., I should fear no evil under the guidance and protection of such a Shepherd. He knows all the passes, dangerous defiles, hidden pits, and abrupt precipices in the way; and he will guide me around, about, and through them.” Adam Clarke’s Commentary
I love the sentence used by Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Commentary, “In the darkest and most trying hour God is near”.
Truth. We can have confidence in God’s protection as our Great Shepherd. We can be of good courage when we find ourselves in a valley because God is our comfort and defense.
Ps 27:2-5 When evildoers came upon me to devour my flesh, my adversaries and my enemies, they stumbled and fell. 3 Though a host encamp against me, my heart will not fear; though war arise against me, in [spite of] this I shall be confident. 4 One thing I have asked from the LORD, that I shall seek: That I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, And to meditate in His temple. 5 For in the day of trouble He will conceal me in His tabernacle; in the secret place of His tent He will hide me; He will lift me up on a rock.
Ps 46:1-3 (For the choir director. [A Psalm] of the sons of Korah, set to Alamoth. A Song.) God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. 2 Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change, And though the mountains slip into the heart of the sea; 3 though its waters roar [and] foam, though the mountains quake at its swelling pride. Selah.
We will probably never have enemies encamped about us ready to take our life as David did. You can almost picture him in the hills seeking refuge in the caves away from Saul’s army. We can learn from the Psalmist’s example of crying out to God and then resting in our confidence of His protection. We can be reminded that there is no need to live in the grips of fear. Do we rely on God with the same confidence David had?
Isa 41:10 'Do not fear, for I am with you; do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.'
Psalm 23:4 goes on to say, “Thy rod and Thy staff, they comfort me”. Picture a shepherd’s staff, used to gently turn a sheep back into the right direction when it has wandered off. We can depend on God’s guidance when we seek to follow Him, even when we’ve wandered off the path. God is still there desiring us to turn back and waiting for our return. He loves us so much, He will go to great lengths to bring us towards Him. There is a sigh of relief for a believer knowing that God is the one directing a path to follow and even putting roadblocks on those paths we are not to enter. Under our Great Shepherd’s protection we find comfort.
Psalm 23 is very commonly read in services for those who have passed away from this earth. Each of us will pass from this earth to an eternal future. A child of God, one who has accepted Jesus’ death and resurrection as necessary payment for their sin, does not need to fear the valley of physical death. Heaven is waiting.
Consider. You have probably made plans at one time or another to travel somewhere. You think about what you will do when you arrive, you spend time preparing and perhaps packing. Finally, the day arrives when you will go on your trip. You’re excited to get to your destination. At long last, the day has arrived, you are on your way. The anticipation puts a smile on your face … This is what the journey to heaven is to a believer, to those who have put their trust completely in Jesus. Physically, we will all die, but spiritually we live forever. For a child of God, forever in heaven with their Lord and Savior is the destination they look forward to. It doesn’t get any better!
1Co 15:55-57 O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
“To walk indicates the steady advance of a soul which knows its road, knows its end, resolves to follow the path, feels quite safe, and is therefore perfectly calm and composed. The dying saint is not in a flurry, he does not run as though he were alarmed, nor stand still as though he would go no further, he is not confounded nor ashamed, and therefore keeps to his old pace. Observe that it is not walking in the valley, but through the valley. We go through the dark tunnel of death and emerge into the light of immortality. We do not die, we do but sleep to wake in glory. Death is not the house but the porch, not the goal but the passage to it. … the valley of the shadow of death, for death in its substance has been removed, and only the shadow of it remains. Someone has said that when there is a shadow there must be light somewhere, and so there is.” The Treasury of David
Ps 65:4 How blessed is the one whom Thou dost choose, and bring near [to Thee], to dwell in Thy courts. We will be satisfied with the goodness of Thy house, Thy holy temple.
Ps 84:4 How blessed are those who dwell in Thy house! They are ever praising Thee. Selah.
Can you personally say and believe “Thou art with me”?
Consider what you are living for. The ‘valleys’ in life grow us in our trust and dependence on God. Just as we are encouraged to read the words in Psalm 23:4, those around us are encouraged as they see us continue to move forward in God’s strength even when it’s difficult. When you have experienced low times the good times are more appreciated. As we might grow feebler with age, our hearts grow closer to God and His heaven that awaits us. There is no need to fear the valley, God is with us, He will protect us, and He will guide us and give us His comfort.
2Co 4:15-17 For all things [are] for your sakes, that the grace which is spreading to more and more people may cause the giving of thanks to abound to the glory of God. 16 Therefore we do not lose heart, but though our outer man is decaying, yet our inner man is being renewed day by day. 17 For momentary, light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison,
Php 1:19-23 For I know that this shall turn to my salvation through your prayer, and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ, according to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death. For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.
We have an amazing, incomprehensible God who, in His love for us, gave all. How undeserving are we of His gift of salvation and blessings poured out on us freely, even in our sinfulness and rejection of Him. And yet, man still rejects God. And we were among those who refused Him, except for His grace. I pray no matter our life circumstances, we are able to be fully consumed with zeal for our Great God and what He has done. A zeal who’s object is God, a zeal that gets stronger as we see ungodliness around us. A zeal that consumes us to march forward as a soldier and live a life honorable for God’s glory.
We began our Women’s Bible Study again after a break during the summer. I am personally so thankful for a group of women who are able to meet each week and look at God’s word together. We started up right where we left off in Psalm 119. I pray you are encouraged, challenged and motivated in your love for God!
We finished our study last Spring with Psalm 119:138. In that scripture, David once again acknowledged God’s righteousness and faithfulness. He states God commanded His testimonies in righteousness and exceeding faithfulness. David is fully engaged in loving his Lord. This is what drives him, there is nothing as important as serving God and trusting in Him for all things. Now, the Psalmist shows us insight how others’ rejection of God hurts his very soul. The tone of David’s words has changed.
Ps 119:139 My zeal has consumed me, because my adversaries have forgotten Thy words.
Consider. What happens when you are reminded of who God is and what He has done? Excitement for God’s truths is great, almost seeming to burst from your heart and soul. To be zealous for something is to have a great enthusiasm and interest for it. When you have a great desire and interest for something, it’s almost unthinkable that others would not see the same importance for what you regard so highly. Many of us have felt this way when sharing the Gospel. What we know is certain and good and right, we automatically want for others. When others turn aside from the Truths we trust in, it is difficult to accept their rejection of God. There is grief when what you believe is mistreated or pushed aside as unimportant.
This same reaction towards those who reject God’s commands, is found in Psalm 69:9 – For zeal for Thy house has consumed me, and the reproaches of those who reproach Thee have fallen on me.
When someone rejects the Gospel our heart aches for them and for God. When we are known for the Gospel, those who reject it often become hostile towards us because of what we believe. We certainly see this in David’s life.
Remember the story recorded for us in the Gospels when Jesus went to Jerusalem for the Passover and entered into the temple. He saw merchants making a profit, basically capitalizing on the Jewish remembrance of the Passover. This was a solemn and holy time where the people worshipped God’s sparing of them and it had become a mockery for those wanting to gain from it. Jesus entered the temple, saw what was happening and began overturning the tables and driving the moneychangers and all the goods out of the temple. Why?
Mt 21:13 And said unto them, It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves.
Joh 2:14-17 And He found in the temple those who were selling oxen and sheep and doves, and the moneychangers seated. 15 And He made a scourge of cords, and drove [them] all out of the temple, with the sheep and the oxen; and He poured out the coins of the moneychangers, and overturned their tables; 16 and to those who were selling the doves He said, "Take these things away; stop making My Father's house a house of merchandise." 17 His disciples remembered that it was written, "ZEAL FOR THY HOUSE WILL CONSUME ME."
The worship we have of God cannot be mocked without us taking a personal affront. It should be pure and holy. Can you begin to imagine Jesus, upon seeing His Father’s house turned into an arena of buying and selling, how it must have made His heart ache for the Truths that had become so cheaply transformed by men with no understanding?
So here we have David sharing his own intense feelings. His enemies are those against God. David literally feels as if he will be consumed by his strong love for God and the rejection of God he sees in others. David recorded a similar scripture for us in Ps 119:53 – Burning indignation has seized me because of the wicked, who forsake Thy law.
Read what Ezra records upon hearing that after having been freed from captivity, the Israelites had formed bonds of marriage with the idolatrous nations around them. Ezra 9:3 And when I heard about this matter, I tore my garment and my robe, and pulled some of the hair from my head and my beard, and sat down appalled. The tearing of his garment and pulling of his hair was a practiced custom at that time when you were grieved.
David, in Psalm 119, had just proclaimed over and over the righteousness of God and His laws. We would expect him to react strongly to those who were enemies against the God he loved and followed. The Psalmist promoted God’s glory, his enemies plundered it. This caused David pain and grief.
How do we react to those who oppose God? Does it make our heart ache? It’s interesting to note that at least in the case of Ps 119:139, it says ‘my adversaries have forgotten Thy words’. In order to have forgotten something, the implication is you once had it. How easy is it to forget something we rarely use or to lose interest in something that has little value to us? Is there a warning we can take from this?
Matthew Poole’s Commentary explains David’s thoughts: ‘I am tormented and cut to the heart with grief and anger at it’. Think about the opposite of forgetting God’s words – remembering them by following and loving them. Grief and anger is then replaced with joy and peace.
Consider. We have an amazing, incomprehensible God who, in His love for us, gave all. How undeserving are we of His gift of salvation and blessings poured out on us freely, even in our sinfulness and rejection of Him. And yet, man still rejects God. And we were among those who refused Him, except for His grace. I pray no matter our life circumstances, we are able to be fully consumed with zeal for our Great God and what He has done. A zeal who’s object is God, a zeal that gets stronger as we see ungodliness around us. A zeal that consumes us to march forward as a soldier and live a life honorable for God’s glory.
Zeal: strong eagerness – excessive fervor – prompt willingness. All for God.
“There is a zeal of the world, there is a zeal of the flesh, there is a zeal of religion, there is a zeal of heresy, and there is a zeal of the true God. First, we see the zeal of the world maketh men to labour day and night to get a transitory thing. The zeal of the flesh torments men’s minds early and late for a momentary pleasure. The zeal of heresy maketh travel and compassing sea and land, for the maintaining and increasing of opinion. Thus we see every man is eaten up with some kind of zeal. The drunkard is consumed with drunkenness, the whoremonger is spent with his whoredom, the heretic is eaten with heresies. Oh, how ought this to ashamed, who are so little eaten, spent, and consumed with the zeal of word! And so much the rather, because godly zeal leaveth in us advantage and a recompense, which the worldly and carnally zealous have not. For when they have spent all the strength of their bodies, powers of their mind, they have no gain or comfort left, but torment conscience; and when they are outwardly spent, they are inwardly never better: whereas the godly being concerned for a good thing, and eaten with the zeal of God's glory, have this notable privilege and profit, howsoever their outward man perisheth and decayeth, yet their inward is still refreshed and nourished to everlasting life. Oh, what a benefit to be eaten up with the love and zeal of a good thing!”—Richard Greenham. (Emphasis added)
Jos 22:5 "Only be very careful to observe the commandment and the law which Moses the servant of the LORD commanded you, to love the LORD your God and walk in all His ways and keep His commandments and hold fast to Him and serve Him with all your heart and with all your soul."
Ps 57:1 Be gracious to me, O God, be gracious to me, for my soul takes refuge in Thee; and in the shadow of Thy wings I will take refuge, until destruction passes by.
Hurricane Irma. Facts: Category 5, 185 mph winds (some gusts clocked at over 200 mph), direct hit on Anguilla and Saint Martin/St. Maarten, two small islands in the Caribbean, on September 6th, 2017. Incredible devastation occurred – buildings collapsed, roofs were torn off, trees were uprooted, the infrastructure of the islands demolished, airplanes were overturned as if they were toys, and marinas became graveyards for rows of sinking watercraft. Add to this scene massive flooding, unsafe drinking water and dangerous power lines laying in the streets, on housing and walkways. The pictures here are recent, almost one year later.
My husband and I have visited Saint Martin almost every year since 2003. We were there two weeks before Irma hit last year and had the opportunity to visit again a few weeks ago. Although we’d been told the cleanup and rebuild has greatly improved, it is difficult to believe the amount of damage still seen. It is everywhere you look. Overturned boats slowly being pulled down into the ocean, and entire boardwalks and piers, shops and restaurants are gone, completely, in the bays. It doesn’t seem that even one structure was left unscathed. Immediately, after landing at the modified airport, which was a white event tent, the casualties were evident. I thought we were informed about what we might see because I’ve kept in touch through the internet, but nothing could have prepared me for what truly was. As we drove from the airport across the island to our destination, I was speechless at the damage around each corner, my heart was silently crying.
We settled in and began talking with those who were on the island during this tragic event.
Many people were smiling! And they wanted to talk about Jesus: His care for them and His mercy on them.
Seriously, each day of our time spent here I have had opportunities to talk about God’s mercy and the necessity to trust in Him. Several times, when I questioned how someone was doing, I was met with thankfulness that life was spared. Faces literally lit up when speaking of God’s provision for basic needs. We heard many were without water in their homes for months and were rationed drinking water. Electricity was unavailable to most homes. Roads were impassable and even if they weren’t, many cars were not drivable because trees or poles had landed on them. Stories from a worker in a grocery market of having only two bottles of water – for drinking and showering – for the entire family with three teenage boys – were shared with thankfulness for what was provided.
One woman remarked how ‘life lessons’ were learned from her oldest son who recently had complained of sharing a room with his two younger siblings. She said after the hurricane, one of her family members lost everything and moved in with them – a small two bedroom home needing to accommodate nine
people for several months. Her oldest son is now very happy to be back sharing a room with only three!
I repeatedly heard phrases like, “God works in mysterious ways”, “God can do what He wants because He owns everything”, and “We have to trust in His plan”, and “Praise God, we are okay, it’s just stuff”.
Thank you God for the resiliency of those who know You! Thank You for the amazing steadfastness of Your children. Thank you for reminding all of us what this life is truly about – the opportunity to praise You in all things and to share about Your hope in all circumstances to all people. Thank you God for the beauty of the ocean and the waves and the breeze. And for Your power seen in a hurricane.
God’s awesomeness is magnified in times of disaster as His children look to Him.
It is so easy to expect that when you turn on a faucet, clean water pours out. I can say I hardly ever think about the blessing of a flushing toilet and working sewage system (except maybe when we’ve been camping!), or flipping a switch for light, or having the availability of unspoiled food or a roof over my head. Having panes of glass in a window has become commonplace for most of us. These things are all blessings given by God’s grace. What we need is food and shelter, what most of us have is so much more!
Thank you Lord Jesus, for giving each of us what we need. Sometimes, it’s the most difficult tragedies that cause our trust to turn towards Your grace. Often, it is in the midst of personal loss that we recognize we already have everything that is important and lasting. In the midst of broken buildings and lives upturned, joy is evident in the certain hope of life eternal.
Ps 57:1 Be gracious to me, O God, be gracious to me, for my soul takes refuge in Thee; and in the shadow of Thy wings I will take refuge, until destruction passes by. God is our refuge and shelter.
Da 6:27 "He delivers and rescues and performs signs and wonders in heaven and on earth, Who has [also] delivered Daniel from the power of the lions." The same God who delivered Daniel from the lion’s jaws will rescue His children.
Na 1:7 The LORD is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble, and He knows those who take refuge in Him. God is our fortress. God knows those who seek His protection.
Isa 12:2 "Behold, God is my salvation, I will trust and not be afraid; For the LORD GOD is my strength and song, and He has become my salvation." God is our deliverance, in Him there is no fear. God is our praise!
Ps 121:1-2 I Will lift up my eyes to the mountains; from whence shall my help come? 2 My help [comes] from the LORD, Who made heaven and earth. The One Who created heaven and earth is our help.
Isa 41:10 'Do not fear, for I am with you; do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.' There is no reason to be dismayed. God will uphold His children.
Ps 46:1 God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. God is our security, right now, this very moment, even in distress.
Strength and resolve in God’s children to trust Him even through incomprehensible tragedy. This is what I witnessed during my time in Saint Martin this year and I am so thankful. I pray we were able to leave bits of encouragement as we shared God’s truths. I personally received incredible blessings.
Psalm 106:8 Nevertheless He saved them for the sake of His name. That He might make His power known.
