WHO AM I?

It is not uncommon to hear someone say, " I am trying to figure out who I am." Even when we get to middle age and beyond we sometimes hear this question echoing in the recesses of our brains.

It is especially confusing if we have defined ourselves by what we do - our careers, our home responsibilities, our various roles in life. When those roles change, are we at a loss?

But the more important question is, how does God see me? While meditating on these thoughts I came up with the following Scripture verses:

Luke 12:6-7 NKJV

"Are not five sparrows sold for two copper coins? And not one of them is forgotten before God. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.”

Psalms 139:13-16 NKJV

For You formed my inward parts; You covered me in my mother's womb.

I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made;

Marvelous are Your works, And that my soul knows very well.

My frame was not hidden from You, When I was made in secret,

And skillfully wrought in the lowest parts of the earth. Your eyes saw my substance, being yet unformed.

And in Your book they all were written,The days fashioned for me, When as yet there were none of them.

Genesis 16:13

She gave this name to the LORD who spoke to her: "You are the God who sees me," for she said, "I have now seen the one who sees me.

James 1:23-25 NKJV

For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man observing his natural face in a mirror; for he observes himself, goes away, and immediately forgets what kind of man he was.

Psalms 17:8 NKJV

Keep me as the apple of Your eye; Hide me under the shadow of Your wings,

Psalms 19:12-13 NKJV

Who can understand his errors? Cleanse me from secret faults.Keep back Your servant also from presumptuous sins; Let them not have dominion over me.

Psalms 19:14 NKJV

Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart Be acceptable in Your sight, O LORD, my strength and my Redeemer.

Psalms 26:2-3 NKJV

Examine me, O LORD, and prove me; Try my mind and my heart.For Your lovingkindness is before my eyes, And I have walked in Your truth.

Psalms 27:8-9 NKJV

When You said, "Seek My face,"My heart said to You, "Your face, LORD, I will seek."Do not hide Your face from me;

Psalms 27:13-14 NKJV

I would have lost heart, unless I had believed That I would see the goodness of the LORD In the land of the living.

Wait on the LORD;Be of good courage, And He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the LORD!

Psalms 119:11 NKJV

Your word I have hidden in my heart, That I might not sin against You.

Psalms 139:23-24 NKJV

Search me, O God, and know my heart; Try me, and know my anxieties; And see if there is any wicked way in me, And lead me in the way everlasting.

End of year thoughts

For the month of December I have taken a break from posting on THE GOD WHO SEES ME - A Devotional Prayer Journal. This has been for the purpose of focusing on the Advent season in my companion blog, LIVING THE WORD at http://prayingtheword.blogspot.com/.

Now it is December 23 and tomorrow is Christmas Eve. We have been blessed with Christmas music, fellowship with friends and family and wonderful messages of hope in the gospel of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ these past few weeks.

Tomorrow we will attend a Christmas Eve service where some of our children will be performing. Then we will have a quiet evening with our daughter and her family.

Our entire family of 24 of us already celebrated at our house on Saturday evening with dinner, musical instruments, singing, children acting out the Christmas story and Ron sharing his annual words of wisdom with his children and grandchildren. After that, of course, all the presents were opened. What a blessed time with our now 13, soon to be 14 grandchildren and their parents. We have been blessed indeed.

Today we were invited to view the 3D/4D ultrasound of our grandson to be born in February. What a miracle it was to be able to see him before he is even born. This was a new experience for me - a nice Christmas present! I presented the Mom- to-be with a hand crocheted blanket.

Next week I will continue where we left off in November in the book of Proverbs. I am praying about my own personal devotional goals for this year, and I hope that you too are planning some quality time in the Word in 2009.

I started a group blog on the Vox.com network back in August to encourage other people to post from their personal Bible reading. I call it "Find The Time in 2009." (A little early but here it is 2009 already.) I do hope that all of you will find the time this year to spend every day reading God's Word and applying it to your lives.

ORDINARY PEOPLE

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ZECHARIAH AND ELIZABETH

Read Luke 1:1-25

"Do not be afraid, Zechariah; your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to give him the name John. He will be a joy and delight to you, and many will rejoice because of his birth, for he will be great in the sight of the Lord." Luke 1:13-15a NIV

* * *

For many years this humble couple in Jerusalem wanted a child, but in spite of continued disappointment, they faithfully served and obeyed God. Zechariah was one of many priests who took their turns burning incense in the temple. How surprised he must have been at this sudden visit by the angel Gabriel, promising him a son - so surprised that he reacted in unbelief: Zechariah asked the angel, "How can I be sure of this? I am an old man and my wife is well along in years." (Luke 1:18)

* * *

How wonderful it is that God chooses ordinary people to do extraordinary things. Little did Zechariah and Elizabeth realize that they would become the parents of the prophesied forerunner of Messiah, John the Baptist.

* * *

Lord, I have no idea what your plans are for the future of our children, but my deepest desire is that they will follow You. We are ordinary people, but I am trusting in Your extraordinary plan for our lives.

* * *

And he will go on before the Lord, in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of the fathers to their children and the disobedient to the wisdom of the righteous-to make ready a people prepared for the Lord." Luke 1:17 NIV (Malachi 4:6)

TREASURE OF THE HEART

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RECKLESS WORDS

Read Proverbs Chapters 12–13

      From the fruit of his lips a man is filled with good things as surely as the work of his hands rewards him.     Proverbs 12:14 NIV

* * *

      Whether they are uplifting or demeaning, words affect the quality of our lives. Solomon wrote, "A fool shows his annoyance at once, but a prudent man overlooks an insult." (12:16) An anxious heart weighs a man down, but a kind word cheers him up. (12:25)
     Words matter because they reflect the condition of our hearts– Jesus said, “For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good things, and an evil man out of the evil treasure brings forth evil things.”
(Matthew 12:34b-35 NKJV)

* * *

      Lord, I pray that You will help me to guard my lips for You have said, "He who guards his lips guards his life, but he who speaks rashly will come to ruin." (Proverbs 13:3) I know that the example I set before my children will profoundly affect their attitudes. Help me to be diligent in teaching them that words matter, and that there is great satisfaction in being a kind, encouraging person.

* * *

Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing. Proverbs 12:18 NIV

A WISE CHILD

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Read Proverbs 9–10

      Instruct a wise man and he will be wiser still; teach a righteous man and he will add to his learning. Proverbs 9:9 NIV

     In these selected proverbs, Solomon is teaching his son the importance of diligence and obedience. He says “A wise son brings joy to his father, but a foolish son grief to his mother.” (10:1)
     Solomon contrasts diligence with laziness in the example of the farmer's son; "He who gathers crops in summer is a wise son, but he who sleeps during harvest is a disgraceful son." (10:5)
     He teaches his son that listening is an important part of learning. As Solomon aptly puts it, "The wise in heart accept commands, but a chattering fool comes to ruin."(10:8) He warns, “When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise.” (10:19)

* * *

     Lord, help us to follow your guidelines in training and disciplining our children. Give us the proper balance of love and discipline, as we teach our children to be respectful and willing to learn. Help us also to encourage their efforts by not being overly critical. Grant us patience as they grow in knowledge–as You have been patient with us.

* * *

     "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy one is understanding. For through me your days will be many, and years will be added to your life."  Proverbs 9:10–11 NIV

INFLUENCE OF A PARENT

GUIDANCE

Read Proverbs 3–4

      Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths. Proverbs 3:5–6 NKJV

* * *

      The wisest thing that Solomon ever did was to acknowledge his own limitations and ask God for wisdom. There is a reason why Solomon knew he needed to do this: He says, When I was a boy in my father's house, still tender, and an only child of my mother, he taught me and said "Wisdom is supreme; therefore get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.” (Proverbs 4:3–4a, 7 NIV) Solomon heeded his father David's sound advice, and asked God for a wise and discerning heart, which God was more than happy to give.

* * *

      We cannot overestimate the importance of our influence on our children. Both good and bad kings in the Bible were influenced by their parents. David started teaching a very young Solomon that the beginning of wisdom is the fear of God, and as a result, Solomon started out in the right direction.

* * *

      Lord, I pray for the salvation of each one of our children and grandchildren. Help us to be faithful in teaching them to seek after You, asking for Your guidance in both small and large decisions.

* * *

      Listen, my son, accept what I say, and the years of your life will be many. I guide you in the way of wisdom and lead you along straight paths.  Proverbs 4:10–11 NIV

THE SEARCH FOR WISDOM

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HIDDEN TREASURE

Read Proverbs 2; James 1

     –and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure– then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God. For the LORD gives wisdom, and from his mouth come knowledge and understanding. Proverbs 2:4–6 NIV

* * *

     Throughout the book of Proverbs, Solomon presents a very important principle echoed in the New Testament: We must seek and ask for wisdom from God, and when He gives it, we must act upon it. James said,
     "Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like." (James 1:23–24)
     The beginning of wisdom is belief that God’s Word is true–but believing is not enough if we don’t carry through and apply it to our lives.

* * *

     Lord, as I open my Bible this morning, I am seeking for hidden treasure. Show me what I need to learn and then empower me to make any changes You require. I lift up my family, my husband and my children. Give me the ability to understand their needs and be ready with a wise and discerning answer. May my thoughts and actions reflect the wisdom mirrored in Your precious Word.

* * *

      If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.    James 1:5 NIV

WORDS OF WISDOM

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THE PROVERBS OF SOLOMON

Read Proverbs 1

      The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel: for attaining wisdom and discipline; for understanding words of insight; for acquiring a disciplined and prudent life, doing what is right and just and fair– Proverbs 1:1-3 NIV

* * *

      When young King Solomon began to reign, God appeared to him in a dream saying, "Ask for whatever you want me to give you.” (1 Kings 3:5) Solomon, citing his youth and lack of experience requested, “give your servant a discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between right and wrong.”(1 Kings 3:9)

      This humble request pleased God because Solomon placed wisdom above wealth and honor. God granted his request and told him, “I will give you what you have not asked for–both riches and honor–so that in your lifetime you will have no equal among kings.” (1 Kings 3:13) Solomon’s wise sayings have been recorded in the book of Proverbs, benefiting generations of believers.

* * *

      Lord, I too acknowledge my need for wisdom. Sometimes the choices are large ones, needing extended prayer and insight, but most are the daily little choices that will add up to a significant direction for our family. I come to You this morning for fresh insight from Your Word.

* * *

      Let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance…The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge… Proverbs 1:5,7a NIV

TELL THE CHILDREN

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A JOYFUL HEART

Read Psalms 144–145

      Great is the LORD and most worthy of praise; his greatness no one can fathom. One generation will commend your works to another; they will tell of your mighty acts. Psalms 145:3–4 NIV

* * *

      Most of his adult life, David was surrounded by enemies– first by Saul who was personally jealous of him, and then by armies who threatened Israel. David recognized that victory comes from the Lord, and he cried out to God for protection.
     Then in his prayers, he acknowledged God's greater plan in it all, “… that all men may know of your mighty acts and the glorious splendor of your kingdom. Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and your dominion endures through all generations.”(145:12-13)

      David concluded that his mission was to praise the works of the Lord to all who would listen: “One generation,” he declared, “will commend your works to another; they will tell of your mighty acts.” In the midst of all that was happening he said, "I will celebrate your abundant goodness and joyfully sing of your righteousness." (145:4, 7)

* * *

      Lord, give me a joyful heart that sings like David, in every circumstance, “The LORD watches over all who love him, My mouth will speak in praise of the LORD.” (145:20-21) Help us to remember to tell our children and grandchildren everything You have done for us.

* * *

      Then our sons in their youth will be like well-nurtured plants, and our daughters will be like pillars carved to adorn a palace.   Psalm 144:12 NIV

MY ANXIOUS THOUGHTS

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Read Psalms 139
     Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. Psalm 139:23

* * *

     David never tried to hide his negative thoughts from God. Instead, he poured them out to his Heavenly Father, knowing he would be understood. He said, O LORD, you have searched me and you know me… you perceive my thoughts from afar… Before a word is on my tongue you know it completely, O LORD. (vv.1,2b, 4)
     When he feared for his life, he trusted God for his safety saying, "All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be." (v.16) When he wondered if he was doing the right thing he said, “See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” (v.24)

* * *

     Dear Father, I too have anxious thoughts. What a comfort to know that you had plans for me even before I was born and all of the days of my life were known by You – past, present and future. “For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb.”(v.13) Help me to quiet my heart with these precious truths from Your Word.

* * *

     I have stilled and quieted my soul; like a weaned child with its mother, like a weaned child is my soul within me. Psalm 131:2

THE REWARD OF CHILDREN

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BLESSING AND PROSPERITY

Read Psalms 127–128

      Blessed are all who fear the LORD, who walk in his ways. Blessings and prosperity will be yours; Your wife will be like a fruitful vine within your house… children are a reward from him. Psalm 128:1-2b, 3a; Psalm 127:3b

* * *

     The Psalms portray children as a sign of blessing and prosperity. The Psalmist declares, “Sons are a heritage from the LORD, children a reward from him. Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are sons born in one's youth.” (127:3-4) Along with this blessing, however, comes a warning: Unless the LORD builds the house its builders labor in vain. (127:1)

* * *

     God promises that if we put Him first in our lives we will eat the fruit of our labors–a blessed home. But when we focus on what the world expects of us, working long hours and doing too much, our lives become unbalanced. When this happens, the Psalmist says, "In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for food to eat–for he grants sleep to those he loves." (127:2)

* * *

     Dear Father, I pray for the peace and rest that comes from focusing on You, even when I am busy. Help me to order my priorities according to Your perfect will. Thank You for the blessings of children.

* * *

     May the LORD bless you from Zion all the days of your life… and may you live to see your children's children.   Psalm 128:5–6 NIV

A HEART SET FREE

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A LIGHT FOR MY PATH

Read Psalm 119

     I gain understanding from your precepts; therefore I hate every wrong path. Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path.  Psalm 119:104–105 NIV

* * *

     Psalm 119 is the longest chapter in the book and the theme is heart rending – David has experienced it all. He agonizes over wicked men delighting in his troubles and the memories of sin in his own life. Sincerely repentant, he says, "I run in the path of your commands, for you have set my heart free.” (v.32)

* * *

     Now as he seeks the Lord with all of his heart he determines to continue to walk in freedom from sin. Hiding God's Word in his heart, he finds that he has more insight and understanding than all of his teachers. He has answers for those who taunt him, and comfort in his suffering. He says, “Your promises have been thoroughly tested, and your servant loves them. Though I am lowly and despised, I do not forget your precepts.”  (Psalm 119:140–141)

* * *

     Lord, help us to faithfully teach our children from the Bible and help them to hide it in their hearts. Through the Psalmist You promised that Your faithfulness continues through all generations. Like David, I have put my hope in your word. (Psalm 119:90,114)

* * *

     How can a young man keep his way pure? By living according to your word. I seek you with all my heart; do not let me stray from your commands. I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you. Psalm 119:9–11 NIV

PRAISE THE LORD!

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FORGET NOT HIS BENEFITS

Read Psalm 102–103

      But from everlasting to everlasting the Lord's love is with those who fear him, and his righteousness with their children's children. Psalm 103:17

* * *

      In Psalm 102 David pours out his heart in anguish, sick and fearful for his life–but in Psalm 103 David praises God for all of the benefits to his soul. He has been healed from his sickness, with his youth renewed. The LORD, he says, is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love. …He does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities. (103:8, 10)

      David would never forget the love and mercy extended to him by his compassionate Heavenly Father. He praises God that “as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.” (103:12)

* * *

      Dear Heavenly Father, I too, want to praise you for all Your benefits. You have satisfied my desire with good things and put a new song in my mouth. Like David I can say, Praise the LORD, O my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name. (103:1) May I reflect, in my countenance and attitude this day, that I am a thankful woman in my inmost being.

* * *

      Let this be written for a future generation, that a people not yet created may praise the LORD: Psalm 102:18 NIV

AVOIDING EVIL INFLUENCES

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IN MY HOUSE

Read Psalm 101

     I will walk in my house with blameless heart. I will set before my eyes no vile thing. Psalm 101:2b–3

* * *

     David determined in his heart that he would avoid the evil influences that were all around him. He could not control the perverse wickedness he saw as he walked through the land, but he could choose to focus on the deeds of godly faithful people. He could also set boundaries on what he allowed in his own house. If he did not set these limits, he knew that the evil would cling to his own mind and heart.

     Christians today have even more difficulty in setting boundaries. The unlimited evil coming into our lives every day by television and internet has the power to destroy us. It takes determined discipline to control those influences. Sometimes the lies are very subtle and our children may not be able to distinguish between truth and error. The Psalmist says, “No one who practices deceit will dwell in my house; no one who speaks falsely will stand in my presence.” (Psalm 101:7)

* * *

     Lord, convict us when we allow evil men and women to indoctrinate our children by way of television. Help us to avoid those images on the internet that would cling to our own minds and hearts, drawing us away from You. Help us to replace those evil influences by cultivating fellowship with faithful Christian friends.

* * *

     My eyes will be on the faithful in the land, that they may dwell with me; he whose walk is blameless will minister to me. Psalm 101:6 NIV

NOT ALONE

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THIS SAME JESUS

Read: Acts 1:1–11

He also presented Himself alive after His suffering by many infallible proofs, being seen by them during forty days and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God. Acts 1:3 NKJV

* * *

After forty days of being with Jesus and rejoicing that He was truly alive, the disciples asked Him, "Lord, are you at this time going to restore the kingdom to Israel?" (Acts1:6 NIV) He told them that it was not for them to know the times and dates, "But," He said, "You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." (1:7-8 NIV) Then just as they must have wanted to ask Him many other things, He was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid him from their sight!

* * *

Lord, I can't imagine how alone they must have felt at that moment. We know now, and they knew in just a few days, that they would not be alone. Lord, I praise You that You have given us Your Holy Spirit to guide us. Thank You that though we cannot see Him, He dwells within us and prays for us according to Your will.

* * *

This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven." Acts 1:11b NIV

DOUBT AND WORRY

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AN UNDIVIDED HEART
Read Psalm 86
      “Teach me your way, O LORD, and I will walk in your truth; give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name. I will praise you, O Lord my God, with all my heart; I will glorify your name forever. For great is your love toward me… “ Psalm 86:11-13a NIV

* * *

      There are many things in life that can cause us to have a divided heart. David was referring to the absolute worship of the Lord as opposed to worthless idols. But in our lives, other things can enter in and become like idols. Jesus said, "No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money. Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life…." (Matthew 6:24-25a)

* * *

      Lord, I am guilty of worry. Sometimes it is easier to trust for the big things in life than for the little nagging worries that creep in each day. James said that the opposite of faith is worry, for “he who doubts is like a wave of the sea; blown and tossed by the wind… he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does." (James 1:6b, 8) Lord, You are my Provider, my Comforter, and my Almighty God. Increase my faith and give me an undivided heart of trust in Your perfect plan for our lives.

* * *

      You are forgiving and good, O Lord, abounding in love to all who call to you. Psalm 86:5

A NEW SONG IN MY HEART

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A TIME TO SPEAK

Read Psalm 40

     I do not hide your righteousness in my heart; I speak of your faithfulness and salvation. I do not conceal your love and your truth from the great assembly. Psalm 40:10

* * *

     King David fell into grievous sin with Bathsheba. (2 Samuel 11–12) He repented, and God forgave him, but with a long road of consequences ahead of him. Referring to his great sin he said, “He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand.” (40:2)

     David recognized God's gracious mercy and plan for his life when he said, "The things you planned for us no one can recount to you; were I to speak and tell of them, they would be too many to declare." (40:5b) God had given him a new song and for the rest of his life he would sing it to all who would listen.

* * *

     Dear Lord, I want tell others about Your love and mercy in my life. Forgive me for getting so busy that I sometimes go an entire day without mentioning your name. As David said, “Let all those who seek You rejoice and be glad in You; Let such as love Your salvation say continually, “The LORD be magnified!” (Psalm 40:16 NKJV)

* * *

     He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear and put their trust in the LORD. Psalm 40:3 NIV

PROTECTED FOREVER

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Read Psalm 37

     For the LORD loves the just and will not forsake his faithful ones. They will be protected forever, Psalm 37:28a NIV

* * *

     As David grew old, he looked around and saw wicked men growing stronger and more violent–lying "in wait for the righteous, seeking their very lives." (37:32) Yet David writes confidently, “If the LORD delights in a man's way, he makes his steps firm; though he stumble, he will not fall, for the LORD upholds him with his hand.” (37:23–24)

     David looks to the past and says, "I was young and now I am old, yet I have never seen the righteous forsaken.”(37:25) He looks to the future and reminds us that "The days of the blameless are known to the LORD, and their inheritance will endure forever…their children will be blessed."(37:18, 26b)

* * *

     Dear Heavenly Father, I lean on Your faithful, everlasting love for us. You have promised that those who love You can look forward to a blessed future, saying, “Commit your way to the LORD, trust also in Him, and He shall bring it to pass.” (Psalm 37:5 NKJV) I claim this promise for my family and for all of us who have received Your righteousness through the cross.

* * *

     Trust in the LORD and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart.    Psalm 37:3-4 NIV

THE BLESSED NATION

Read Psalms 33–34

     The LORD foils the plans of the nations; he thwarts the purposes of the peoples. But the plans of the LORD stand firm forever, the purposes of his heart through all generations. Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD. Psalm 33:10-12a

* * *

     These Psalms of David reflect his joyful, trusting heart in the midst of extreme trial – running from King Saul who hated him, and escaping a pagan king who could have killed him. But in the midst of it, David sang joyfully of God’s faithfulness to the nations and individuals who honor Him. He said, “Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in him.” (Psalm 34:8)

     Those of us who listen to the news each evening can't help but be dismayed by the attempts to undermine our Christian heritage. America's founding documents still proclaim God as Lord, but that godly foundation is being chipped away with alarming speed.

     Our hope is not in the ability of men to come to our rescue. God is, after all, in charge of history. We need not fear the plans of our enemies, because God has the ability to foil their plans, if He so chooses. Our prayers should be for our leaders to turn back to the God of their fathers.

* * *

     Lord, help us to faithfully live the truth and teach it to our children. Help us to remind them of the godly heritage handed down from our nation's fathers, and to give testimony of the faithfulness of God in our own lives.

* * *

     Come, my children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the LORD.   Psalm 34:11

THE HOUSE OF THE LORD

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Read Psalm 27–28

      One thing I ask of the LORD, this is what I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life. Psalms 27:4

* * *

      King David had a heart for God's house, which in his day was the Tabernacle. He wanted to build a temple for the Lord, but God would not let him do it in his generation. David’s son, Solomon would be the one to carry out his plans, with materials his father had gathered together.   (1 Kings 8:19)

* * *

      Today, the Lord's house is the Church, the Body of Christ, made up of believers who are themselves, the Temple His Holy Spirit. (1 Corinthians 3:16–17) The places where the Church meets, places of fellowship and worship, can be anywhere–in a home, a school or an elaborate building. The author of Hebrews warns, "Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another–and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” (Hebrews 10:25)

* * *

      Lord, thank You for the privilege of meeting freely with other believers. May our love for Your Church be so genuine and obvious that our children and grandchildren, like David, will desire to dwell in Your house all the days of their lives.

* * *

      At his tabernacle will I sacrifice with shouts of joy; I will sing and make music to the LORD. Psalm 27: 6b

THE ROOSTER CROWED

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PETER DENIES JESUS

Read Mark 14: 66–72

After a little while, those standing near said to Peter, "Surely you are one of them, for you are a Galilean." He began to call down curses on himself, and he swore to them, "I don't know this man you're talking about." Mark 14:70-71 NIV

* * *

Just a short time before this, Peter had declared to Jesus, "Lord, I am ready to go with you to prison and to death." (Luke 22:33) Peter had stood up valiantly in the garden by starting a sword fight. But then Jesus healed the soldier's ear, and submitted himself to arrest. Jesus said to them, "If you are looking for me, then let these men go." This happened so that the words he had spoken would be fulfilled: "I have not lost one of those you gave me." (John 18:8–9; quoting John 17:12)

Jesus knew all about what Peter would do. He knew that Satan wanted to "sift him like wheat", but Satan could not defeat Peter, because Jesus had said, "I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail." (Luke 22:32 NKJV)

* * *

Lord, The moment the rooster crowed had to be the darkest day of Peter's life, but the story told through the years has brought comfort and encouragement to all of us who, like Peter, have experienced failure.

* * *

…Then Peter remembered the word Jesus had spoken to him: "Before the rooster crows twice you will disown me three times." And he broke down and wept. Mark 14:72 NIV

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THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD

Read Psalms 23–25; John 10:11–18

     The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness For His name's sake. Psalm 23:1–3 NKJV

* * *

     King David, a former sheep herder, knew all about tending flocks of sheep. Without a shepherd to follow, the lambs would wander into dangerous territory, falling down ravines or being attacked by wolves or lions. Jesus spoke of Himself as the Good Shepherd who cares for His sheep–not as a hireling–but as one who owns His flock. He said, “I am the good shepherd; and I know My sheep, and am known by My own.” (John 10:14 NKJV)

* * *

     Like sheep, we are prone to wander into precarious situations. Only when we fix our eyes on our Shepherd will we be safe and secure from Satan who loves to disrupt and destroy. Peter warns believers to “be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. “ (1 Peter 5:8 NKJV)

* * *

     Lord, I praise you for your leading and protection for our family and our church. With You as our Shepherd we can say with David, “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever. (Psalm 23:6 NKJV)

* * *

     Show me your ways, O LORD, teach me your paths; guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long. Psalm 25:4–5 NIV

HIDDEN FAULTS

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MORE PRECIOUS THAN GOLD

Read Psalm 19

     The statutes of the LORD are trustworthy, making wise the simple… They are more precious than gold, than much pure gold; they are sweeter than honey… Psalm 19:7b, 10

* * *

     David praises the Scriptures as trustworthy, right, radiant, pure and altogether righteous. Then he asks the question, "Who can discern his errors? Forgive my hidden faults."(19:12) Meditating on God’s Word gives us discernment. The voices of the world and the devil are ever with us and Satan often presents his ideas in a reasonable way. The only way to correctly sort out our own thoughts is by time spent in the Word. “For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart." (Hebrews 4:12)

* * *

     Thank You Lord when the message is sweeter than honey from the honeycomb. Thank You also, when it convicts me and motivates me to correct my sinful thoughts and misguided actions. What wisdom and riches we have in Your trustworthy Word! We need that wisdom as we seek to cultivate a love of Scripture in the hearts of our children.

* * *

     May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer. Psalm 19:14 NIV

AN IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT

I have to interrupt this journal to announce that David and Elizabeth are expecting our 14th grandchild - a boy! That makes 13 boys and one girl! What a lively bunch we have - did I ever worry about empty nest? :)

ETERNAL PLEASURES

[67]

THE PATH OF LIFE

Read Psalm 16

You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand. Psalm 16:11 NIV

* * *

In this Psalm David expresses joy and security in the knowledge that God has long range plans for him: The promised Messiah would come through David’s descendants, and would one day be crucified, buried and arise from the dead. The apostle Peter quoted from Psalm 16 on the Day of Pentecost: "David said about Him: my body also will live in hope, because you will not abandon me to the grave, nor will you let your Holy one see decay." (Acts 2:26b-27)

* * *

Heavenly Father; I praise You for making "known to me the path of life." Because I received the message of the gospel, I can say like David, "you have made my lot secure. The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; surely I have a delightful inheritance…Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices; my body also will rest secure.(Psalms 16:5-6, 9) Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine!

* * *

I said to the LORD, "You are my Lord; apart from you I have no good thing." Psalm 16:2 NIV

LET THE CHILDREN COME

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CHILDREN PRAISE HIM

Read Psalm 8:1–9

     LORD, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth! You have set your glory above the heavens. From the lips of children and infants you have ordained praise… Psalm 8:1–2a NIV

* * *

      Our majestic Lord, Creator of the heavens, has ordained the praise of infants and children – how important then, must those little ones be to Him! Whether we work outside our homes, or in our homes, there is no job more significant than teaching, training and loving our children. These are the ones who Jesus says will make up his kingdom. We must introduce them to Him at the earliest opportunity for He has said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. (Mark 10:14b)

* * *

      Dear Jesus, You said that “Whoever receives one little child like this in My name receives Me.” (Matthew 18:5 NKJV) May my actions today be a blessing to our children and may our home be a welcoming place where they can bring their friends. I ask You for the wisdom I need to accomplish what You have ordained this day. Thank you for entrusting me with this awesome responsibility

* * *

     "I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it." And he took the children in his arms, put his hands on them and blessed them.   Mark 10:15–16 NIV

IN THE MORNING

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PRAYER FOR PROTECTION

Read Psalm 5:1–12; 143:8

     In the morning, O LORD, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait in expectation. Psalm 5:3

* * *

     The Psalmist David found his strength each morning as he prayed and lifted up his requests to God. He believed that God heard him and he waited in expectation. On one occasion, he prayed, “Cause me to hear Your lovingkindness in the morning, For in You do I trust; Cause me to know the way in which I should walk, For I lift up my soul to You." ( Psalms 143:8)

* * *

     Each day should find us praying for the children God has given to us. Whether they are small and still at home or going off each morning to school, sports or work–they need the cover of our prayers. 
     We can pray like David, “Spread your protection over them that those who love your name may rejoice in you. For surely, O LORD, you bless the righteous; you surround them with your favor as with a shield. (Psalm 5:11-12)

* * *

      Dear Heavenly Father, watch over our children today wherever they are. I rejoice in You this morning because I know that You hear my voice. I lift up to You my specific requests and wait in expectation for Your answer.

* * *

     How precious is Your lovingkindness, O God! Therefore the children of men put their trust under the shadow of Your wings. Psalm 36:7 NKJV

A TREE PLANTED BY WATER

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FRUIT IN SEASON

Read Psalm 1

      Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly… His delight is in the law of the LORD and in His law he meditates day and night. He shall be like a tree Planted by the rivers of water, that brings forth its fruit in its season, whose leaf also shall not wither; and whatever he does shall prosper.
Psalm 1: 1a, 2-3 NKJV

* * *

      God's Word never goes out of vogue for Christians. It is relevant for every stage of life, and is the source of life itself. Believers who ask the Lord for wisdom with their children will find it, for he has promised, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. (James 1:5-6 NKJV) Then when the children are grown, God's Word says that those parents will still bear fruit in old age and be fresh and flourishing. (Psalm 92:14 NKJV)

* * *

       Lord, I want to meditate daily on Your Word so that I can sort out the many voices of advice that the world gives. Only by knowing the truth can I recognize error, and find that narrow way that leads to life. Help me to influence our children so that they too will "delight in the law of the Lord." and avoid the "counsel of the ungodly."

* * *

      Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path. Psalm 119:105 NIV

A WORTHY EXAMPLE

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JOB

Read Job 1–2;  Job 42

     Then the LORD said to Satan, "Have you considered my servant Job? There is no one on earth like him; he is blameless and upright, a man who fears God and shuns evil." Job 1:8 NIV

* * *

     The story of Job is quite frightening to a believer’s heart. The interaction between God and Satan is something that we really cannot comprehend. But God did not expect Job, or his friends, to understand everything that transpired in Heaven. One thing we know; Job was living righteously and God was proud of him. Those of us, who want to please God, would do well to look at his example.

     Job prayed for his children even into adulthood. He raised them to love each other and enjoy one another's company, but he also maintained a discerning attitude, knowing that they could fall into sin.
     Job maintained his integrity in spite of the most adverse of circumstances, and when it was all over, he prayed for his friends who had completely misjudged him.

* * *

     Lord, I would never ask for the trials that Job and his wife endured, but I do want to be the kind of person who would make You proud. You taught us to pray, do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one." (Luke 11:4 NKJV) I am praying this for myself and my family and friends today. Amen

* * *

     "After Job had prayed for his friends, the LORD made him prosperous again and gave him twice as much as he had before."
     "The LORD blessed the latter part of Job's life more than the first."
Job 42:10, 12a NIV

FOILED CONSPIRACY

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MORDECAI

Read Esther 5–10

     That night the king could not sleep; so he ordered the book of the chronicles, the record of his reign, to be brought in and read to him…."What honor and recognition has Mordecai received for this?" the king asked. Esther 6:1, 3

* * *

     The book of Esther contains some similarities to the story of Joseph in Egypt. Esther and her guardian, Mordecai, were captives in Persia, and like Joseph, God’s providence brought them into favor with the King. Esther was crowned Queen, and Mordecai in the end, was second only to King Ahasuerus. He …was great among the Jews and well received by the multitude of his brethren, seeking the good of his people and speaking peace to all his countrymen. (10:3b NKJV)

* * *

     Mordecai ‘just happened’ to hear about a conspiracy against King Ahasuerus in time to warn Esther, and the king ‘just happened’ to awaken in the middle of the night–calling for the record that Mordecai had saved his life–just in time to foil the conspiracy by Haman to annihilate the Jews. (Esther 6-7)

* * *

     The truth is that nothing ‘just happens’ to God's people. If we truly believe this, we will live with the confidence that God works out everything according to His good plan. Lord, remind me when I forget, that I will never be sorry for trusting in You.

* * *

     "For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, "thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope." Jeremiah 29:11 NKJV

FOR SUCH A TIME AS THIS

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ESTHER

Read Esther Chapters 1–4

 

     Mordecai had a cousin named Hadassah… This girl, who was also known as Esther, was lovely in form and features, and Mordecai had taken her as his own daughter when her father and mother died.  Esther 2:7

* * *

     Esther's story takes place when the Jews were captives in Persia. She was gathered up with many other beautiful young women into the harem of King Ahasuerus, and then chosen to be the queen.

     Esther's cousin, Mordecai had instructed her to be silent about her Jewish heritage, but then came her time of decision: Her people were in grave danger, and only she could approach the king to save them. After calling for a fast, she said, "I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish." (4:16b)

     Esther could have never imagined, as she was being carried off into captivity that she would become Queen of Persia and the rescuer of her people. She couldn't see into the future, and neither can we. But we can trust in Jesus, the Son of Esther's God, to use us for His glory.

* * *

     Lord, just as You had a plan for Esther, I know You have a plan for me and for each member of my family. Help us to trust and obey Your leading, knowing that you are in control of the events of our lives.

* * *

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

DISCOURAGEMENT

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NEHEMIAH

Read Nehemiah 1–2; 4:1–15

     I answered them by saying, "The God of heaven will give us success."   Nehemiah 2:20a NIV

* * *

     Nehemiah, a cupbearer for the King of Persia, received some alarming news from Judah: "Those who survived the exile and are back in the province are in great trouble and disgrace. The wall of Jerusalem is broken down, and its gates have been burned with fire." (1:3)
     The king of Persia gave his permission for Nehemiah to go and help his people rebuild Jerusalem – but the enemies of the Jews were very much disturbed that someone had come to promote the welfare of the Israelites. (2:10)

     Not only was the work overwhelming, leaving the people exhausted, but three local officials set out to discourage the people with ridicule and intimidation. When that didn’t work, they threatened to fight against them. Nehemiah encouraged the people to "Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome, and fight for your brothers, your sons and your daughters, your wives and your homes." (4:14)

* * *

     Lord, in our homes and churches, we need encouragement for some of these same issues ; maintaining motivation, overcoming fatigue and dealing with our spiritual enemy who says we cannot succeed. Help us to remember Nehemiah's words: "The joy of the LORD is your strength." (Nehemiah 8:10)

* * *

     "Therefore I stationed some of the people behind the lowest points of the wall at the exposed places, posting them by families…."   Nehemiah 4:13 NIV

RESTORATION AND BLESSING

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RETURN TO JERUSALEM

Read Ezra 1–6

     In the first year of Cyrus king of Persia, in order to fulfill the word of the LORD spoken by Jeremiah, the LORD moved the heart of Cyrus king of Persia …” Ezra 1:1a NIV

* * *

     When the prophesied seventy years of Israel’s captivity had past, God moved the heart of Cyrus king of Persia to send the people back to their land. Under the leadership of Zerubbabel, "They finished building the temple according to the command of the God of Israel and the decrees of Cyrus, Darius and Artaxerxes, kings of Persia". (Ezra 6:14)

* * *

     God had caused the Medes and the Persians to take over the Babylonian kingdom just in time to fulfill His Word. He used worldly powers to bring judgment on His people, and now He used them to bring restoration and blessing.

* * *

     The road to restoration was not easy; the people had to work hard to rebuild the destroyed temple–and later the city walls. They would face discouragement and harassment from their neighbors; but in spite of this, the work went on and they were restored to the land.

* * *

     Thank you, Lord, that Your discipline is not forever, and its purpose is for our good–for You have said, “My son, do not make light of the Lord’s discipline, and do not lose heart when he rebukes you, because the Lord disciplines those he loves,” (Hebrews 12:5–6 NIV)

* * *

     "For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may remain for a night, but rejoicing comes in the morning." Psalms 30:5 NIV

BABYLONIAN CAPTIVITY

JEREMIAH



Read Jeremiah 25:1–11

 

     Therefore the LORD Almighty says this: "Because you have not listened to my words… This whole country will become a desolate wasteland, and these nations will serve the king of Babylon seventy years."   Jeremiah 25:8, 11 NIV

* * *

     Josiah was a good king, who fought against idolatry, but the people continued to run after other gods. After Josiah's death, God brought a message through the prophet Jeremiah: “the LORD Almighty says this: "Because you have not listened to my words, I will summon all the peoples of the north and my servant Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon," (25:8-9a)
 

     God was going to allow His people to be carried off to Babylon for seventy years, and after that they would return to the land. Jeremiah had no choice but to faithfully declare God's message–even though no one wanted to hear it. When it actually happened, just as God had said, there could be no doubt that this was the Word of the Lord.

* * *

     Heavenly Father, Give us faith to trust Your Word even when we see our nation ignoring it. We need courage to share the Truth in our generation even when no one wants to hear it. Help our churches to be faithful in teaching the Bible and declaring the gospel with clarity. Raise up godly men to lead our country in truth and righteousness.

* * *

     "I will bring them (back) from the land of the north… They will come with weeping; they will pray as I bring them back. I will lead them beside streams of water on a level path where they will not stumble."   Jeremiah 31:8-9 NIV

NEVER TOO YOUNG

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KING JOSIAH

Read 2 Chronicles 34
     Neither before nor after Josiah was there a king like him who turned to the LORD as he did–with all his heart and with all his soul and with all his strength, in accordance with all the Law of Moses. 2 Kings 23:25 NIV

* * *

     Josiah was only eight years old when his wicked father, Amon was assassinated and he became king. Josiah had never seen a copy of God's Word and yet, at the age of sixteen, he began to seek the God of his ancestor David. He destroyed many of the idols his father and grandfather had set up, and when he was twenty‑six years old, he began to restore the temple.

     One of the priests found a copy of the law given to Moses. When Josiah heard it read he said, "Go and inquire of the LORD for me and for the remnant in Israel and Judah about what is written in this book that has been found. Great is the LORD's anger that is poured out on us because our fathers have not kept the word of the LORD; they have not acted in accordance with all that is written in this book." (34:21)

* * *

     Josiah's story illustrates that a young person who wants to know God will find Him, in spite of his background. Lord, make our home a place where young people will feel welcome and hear the truth of Your Word. Let it be a lighthouse in a dark world.

* * *

     "Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity."   1 Timothy 4:12 NIV

AND HIS MOTHER WAS...

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KING HEZEKIAH

Read 2 Chronicles Chapters 29–30

Hezekiah was twenty-five years old when he became king… His mother's name was Abijah daughter of Zechariah. He did what was right in the eyes of the LORD… 2 Chronicles 29:1–2a NIV

* * *

Reading through the stories of the Kings of Judah and Israel can be very discouraging. There were so many bad kings and so few good ones. But whether they were evil or good, the narrative often includes this phrase: "His mother's name was…" The kings of Israel were greatly influenced by the women in their lives, both wives and mothers. From wicked queen Jezebel to faithful queen Esther, we see that women have held a significant role in history. Though they were not usually making the decisions, they were definitely influencing the character of those who did.

* * *

Lord, thank you that Your Word honors godly women and their role in shaping the characters of the Bible. May I never accept the voices that would demean the importance of my job as wife and mother. Help me to teach my children the truths of Your Word and faithfully discipline them to be respectful of their parents and their God.

* * *

"The older women… can train the younger women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to their husbands, so that no one will malign the word of God." Titus 2:3a-5 NIV

INFLUENCE AND PERSONAL CHOICE

THE RESCUE OF JOASH

 

Read 2 Chronicles 22:1–12

 

     Ahaziah was twenty-two years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem one year. His mother's name was Athaliah… He too walked in the ways of the house of Ahab, for his mother encouraged him in doing wrong.   2 Chronicles 22:2-3 NIV

* * *

     Athaliah, the mother of King Ahaziah was perhaps the most evil woman who ever lived, with the exception of her mother Jezebel. She murdered her own grandsons so that she herself could assume the throne. But Athaliah's sister, wife of the priest, rescued baby Joash and hid him in the temple for six years. At the age of seven, Joash was made king and he did what was right in the eyes of the LORD all the years of Jehoiada the priest. (24:2)

* * *

     After Jehoiada died, the ungodly officials of Judah came and paid homage to the king, and he listened to them. “Therefore they left the house of the LORD God of their fathers, and served wooden images and idols; and wrath came upon Judah and Jerusalem because of their trespass. (2 Chronicles 24:18 NKJV) King Ahaziah was influenced by his wicked mother, Athaliah, and King Joash was influenced by godly Jehoiada the priest–but in the end both of them rebelled against God.

* * *

     Lord, I pray for the personal salvation of each one of our children and grandchildren. Help us to influence them toward God, but also to teach them that ultimately, the choice must be theirs to follow Him.

* * *

     … to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God– children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband's will, but born of God.   John 1:12-13 NIV

WORSHIPING THE GIFT

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THE BRONZE SNAKE

Read Numbers 21:4–9; 2 Kings 18:1–8

They spoke against God and against Moses, and said, "Why have you brought us up out of Egypt to die in the desert? There is no bread! There is no water! And we detest this miserable food!" Then the LORD sent venomous snakes among them; they bit the people and many Israelites died. Numbers 21:5–6 NIV

* * *

During the Exodus from Egypt, God sent a plague of snakes because the people grumbled against God and Moses. The people came to Moses and said, "We sinned when we spoke against the LORD and against you. Pray that the LORD will take the snakes away from us." So Moses prayed for the people. The LORD said to Moses, "Make a snake and put it up on a pole; anyone who is bitten can look at it and live." (21:7-8)

* * *

Hundreds of years later, the people of Judah were worshiping the bronze snake, instead of honoring God who had brought them out of Egypt. When Hezekiah became king, He broke into pieces the bronze snake Moses had made, for up to that time the Israelites had been burning incense to it. (2 Kings 18:4) The bronze snake was a gift from God for healing and they focused on the gift instead of the One who gave it–making it into an idol.

* * *

Father, the bronze snake could not heal in itself, but it represented the One who could–Jesus Christ who was lifted up on the cross for our sin. Lord, keep my focus on You, the giver of every good and perfect gift.

* * *

"Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the desert, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, that everyone who believes in him may have eternal life." John 3:14-15 NIV

COULD THIS BE THE CHRIST?

[53]

SAMARIA

Read 2 Kings 17; John 4:7–29

So the people of Israel were taken from their homeland into exile in Assyria… The king of Assyria brought people from Babylon, Cuthah, Avva, Hamath and Sepharvaim and settled them in the towns of Samaria to replace the Israelites. 2 Kings 17:23b-24 NIV

* * *

When Samaria was resettled by Shalmaneser, King of Assyria, he was superstitious enough to believe that the people needed to worship the "god" of that land. So he brought back one of the exiled priests to live in Bethel and “teach the people what the god of the land requires." (2 Kings 17:27) But each national group had its own gods for which they set up shrines and idols in the mountains. They were taught about the God of Israel, so they knew about the promised Messiah. But their religion was a mixture of truth and error.

This passage is the background for the New Testament story of Jesus and the Samaritan woman at the well. In a conversation about worship in the mountains, the woman said to Jesus, "I know that Messiah" (called Christ) "is coming. When he comes, he will explain everything to us." Jesus declared, "I who speak to you am he." (John 4:25–26)

* * *

Dear Father, there are many people around us who are accepting a mixture of Christianity and pagan religion. Help us to be ready to share our faith in Christ with kindness, clarity and simplicity–as Jesus spoke to this woman.

* * *

Then, leaving her water jar, the woman went back to the town and said to the people, "Come, see a man who told me everything I ever did. Could this be the Christ?" John 4:28-29 NIV