ABRAHAM AND ISAAC

GOD WILL PROVIDE A LAMB

Read Genesis 22

     And Abraham said, “My son, God will provide Himself a Lamb” (Genesis 22:8 KJV)
"Behold the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world" John 1:29 NKJV

* * *

     After waiting for so long for his promised son, Isaac, Abraham was asked to give him back as a sacrifice. This request had no basis in anything God had done with His people. False gods required human sacrifices, not Abraham's God.

* * *

     The author of Hebrews gives us some insight into Abraham’s response: "Abraham reasoned that God could raise the dead, and figuratively speaking, he did receive Isaac back from death."  Hebrews 11:19  But still he was required to go through this test to show that God was first in his life–even before his beloved son.

* * *

     Sometimes God brings us to a place in our lives when we must make a choice about something or someone He has blessed us with. Is there anything in my life that has become more important than my relationship with Him?

* * *

     Lord, I pray that I will always put You first in my life. Not first as in being at the top of a priority list, but first in regard to everything on that list. I cannot have a right relationship with anyone else if I am not right with You. Thank You for providing Your Son, the Lamb of God, to make that relationship possible.

* * *

     "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life "   John 3:16 NKJV

LOT

A COMPROMISED TESTIMONY

Read Genesis 18:16–19:38 

     So Lot went out and spoke to his sons‑in‑law, who were pledged to marry his daughters. He said, "Hurry and get out of this place, because the LORD is about to destroy the city!" But his sons‑in‑law thought he was joking.   Genesis 19:14 NIV

* * *

     Lot’s story is a direct contrast to the story of Noah and the flood. Noah’s sons and their wives respected him and followed him in obedience to God. Lot’s sons‑in‑law thought he was joking. Lot’s testimony was so compromised that his daughters tricked him into fathering their children, resulting in two wicked nations called the Moabites and Ammonites. Yet, in spite of this, Peter later tells us that Lot was a believer:

     " a righteous man, who was distressed by the filthy lives of lawless men (for that righteous man, living among them day after day, was tormented in his righteous soul by the lawless deeds he saw and heard.)" (2 Peter 2:7-8)

* * *

     Lord, help us to carefully choose the environment in which we place our families. Help us to see beyond the beauty of the land or the monetary gain to make sure there is not a wicked “Sodom” nearby. Help us to train up our children by our own example and to teach them to pass down their faith to the next generation.

* * *

     "For I have chosen him, so that he will direct his children and his household after him to keep the way of the LORD by doing what is right and just ..." Genesis 18:19a NIV

HE IS RISEN! HE IS RISEN INDEED!

THOMAS BELIEVES

Read: Luke 24:36-43; John 20:24-31

     Thomas said to them, "Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe it."    John 20:25 NIV

     Eight days before this, the disciples, except for Thomas, stood in amazed unbelief.  Jesus suddenly appeared, and they thought they were seeing a ghost. Then He asked for something to eat and said, "Touch me and see; a ghost does not have flesh and bones, as you see I have." (Luke 24:39)

     Now Thomas is still  unconvinced, since he has not yet seen the Lord. When Jesus appeared again, and showed him his hands and side, Thomas exclaimed, "My Lord and my God!" (John 20:28)

* * *

     Jesus had been telling His disciples all along that he would arise from the dead, but this was something they couldn't comprehend. We have the advantage today of the complete Scriptures, explaining how all these things fit together with Old Testament prophesy; yet Lord, there are times I struggle to understand Your plan for us. Perhaps it is just enough to say, "My Lord and my God!"

* * *

     Jesus said to him, "Thomas, because you have seen Me, you have believed. Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed."  John 20:29 NKJV

I HAVE SEEN THE LORD

MARY MAGDALENE

Read: John 20:1-18
     They asked her, "Woman, why are you crying?" "They have taken my Lord away," she said, "and I don't know where they have put him." John 20:13

* * *

     Mary Magdalene was one of the devout women who supplied the needs of Jesus and His disciples throughout His ministry. She was a woman whom Jesus had delivered from demon possession, as were many others who followed Him. Mary Magdalene stood at the foot of the cross with Mary, the mother of Jesus.

     Now Mary came to the tomb to grieve, but instead she found that the tomb was empty. So she came running to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one Jesus loved, and said, "They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we don't know where they have put him!"   

     Later back at the empty tomb, she turned around and saw Jesus, so changed that she did not recognize Him - until He said her name. Jesus said to her, "Mary." She turned toward him and cried out in Aramaic, "Rabboni!" (John 20:16)

     Mary Magdalene had been forgiven much and she loved her Savior. Her life was dedicated to the ministry and to being a friend to other believers. God chose her to be the first one to see her risen Lord.

* * *

     Thank You, Lord, that You sent your Son to set people like Mary free from their sin, and that You saved me too. I pray that my life will be spent serving you and other believers, in Jesus name, Amen.

* * *

     Mary Magdalene went to the disciples with the news: "I have seen the Lord!"   John 20:18 NIV

A RICH MAN'S TOMB

SECRET DISCIPLES

Read John 19:38-42

     After this, Joseph of Arimathea, being a disciple of Jesus, but secretly, for fear of the Jews, asked Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus.   John 19:38 NKJV

* * *

     Here are two Jewish men, one of them Nicodemus, a Pharisee and the other Joseph of Arimathea, a prominent wealthy council member - both of them secret disciples of Jesus. On one occasion Nicodemus tried to speak up at a council meeting by saying,

     "Does our law judge a man before it hears him and knows what he is doing?" They ridiculed him by saying, "Are you also from Galilee? Search and look, for no prophet has arisen out of Galilee." (John 7:50-52)

     After the crucifixion, Joseph of Arimathea gathered up his courage and asked Pilot for Jesus' body. He and Nicodemus - no longer secret disciples - prepared the body for burial and laid it in Joseph's new tomb, fulfilling Isaiah's prophecy that Messiah would be buried in a rich man's grave.(Isaiah 53:9)

* * *

     Lord, forgive me when I have been reluctant to speak up for You among unbelievers. Give me courage and discernment to know when and where to share my faith.

* * *

     And Nicodemus, who at first came to Jesus by night, also came, bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about a hundred pounds.    John 19:39 NKJV

HEARTS REVEALED

BEHOLD YOUR MOTHER

Read John 19:17-37

     Now there stood by the cross of Jesus His mother, and His mother's sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene.    John 19:25-26 NKJV

* * *

     Years before, Mary and Joseph stood before the priest to dedicate her newborn Son. The old man Simeon had prophesied, "This child is destined to be a sign that will be spoken against, so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too." (Luke 2:34-35)  

     Now Mary was experiencing the ultimate piercing of her soul, as Jesus hung from the cross in agonizing pain: 
     When Jesus saw His mother, and the disciple whom He loved standing by, He said to His mother, "Woman, behold your son!" Then He said to the disciple, "Behold your mother!" And from that hour that disciple took her to his own home.   John 19:26-27 NKJV

     Jesus knew the emotional pain that this moment brought to His mother. God had chosen her of all women to give birth to His Son, but His plans for her were not over. After the resurrection and ascension, Mary's other sons became devout believers. In Acts we read,

   "These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brothers."   Acts 1:14 NKJV

* * *

     Lord, so often Mary stood in the background watching God's plan unfold. She is an example I would like to follow when it seems better to be still and wait on You. What honor came to this humble woman as the Son of God saw to her needs in His last hour. I know that You are aware of my needs and the needs of my children. I pray that like Mary's sons they will follow You.

* * *

     One of the soldiers pierced Jesus' side with a spear, bringing a sudden flow of blood and water... These things happened so that the scripture would be fulfilled ..."They will look on the one they have pierced."    John 19:34-37;  Zechariah 12:10

PETER DENIES KNOWING 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 incident, 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 18:8b-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)

* * *

     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

Easter Devotions

TAKE A SWORD

Read: Luke 22: 35-53

 

     He said to them, "But now if you have a purse, take it, and also a bag; and if you don't have a sword, sell your cloak and buy one.    Luke 22:36 NIV 

* * *

     It has been obvious up to this point that everything the Lord did had a purpose and was part of His Father's plan. Just prior to entering the Garden of Gethsemane for prayer, He gave the apostles specific instruction to sell their cloaks and buy a sword. They must have thought they were preparing to fight for the Kingdom. But Jesus had a plan they never could have guessed. They said, "Lord, look, here are two swords." And He said to them, "It is enough." (22:38)

* * *

     After a night of prayer in the garden; a contingency of soldiers and religious leaders came to arrest Jesus. When Jesus' followers saw what was going to happen, they said, "Lord, should we strike with our swords?" And one of them (Peter) struck the servant of the high priest, cutting off his right ear. (22:49-50) What happened next would show everyone that Jesus laid down his life for us; it wasn't taken from Him.

* * *

     Lord, I am unable to comprehend the love that motivated You to give Your only begotten Son to make such a sacrifice. Jesus said, "No more of this!" And He touched the man's ear and healed him. (22:51)

* * *

     Jesus said to him ... "Do you think I cannot call on my Father, and he will at once put at my disposal more than twelve legions of angels? But how then would the Scriptures be fulfilled that say it must happen in this way?"    Matthew 26:53-54 NIV

BEHOLD YOUR KING

THE TRIUMPHAL ENTRY

Read: Luke 19:28-40

     …the whole multitude of the disciples began to rejoice and praise God with a loud voice for all the mighty works they had seen, saying: "'Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the LORD! Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!"  Luke 19:37-38 NKJV

* * *

     After leaving Zacchaeus' home in Jericho, Jesus went on toward Jerusalem, where a colt was already prepared for Jesus to make His entry. Jesus knew the donkey would be there, because His Father had prophesied "Behold, your King is coming to you; He is just and having salvation, Lowly and riding on a donkey, A colt, the foal of a donkey." (Zechariah 9:9b NKJV) The praise of the crowd echoed the words of the angels at His birth - all planned since the beginning of time.

* * *

     Lord, I want to praise You for all Your mighty works. You are the King of Kings who will one day return to Jerusalem again. You have ordained that the mouths of babes would praise You. I pray for the "babes" in my family that their lives will be lived in praise of the King and that one day we will all stand together and see You face to face.

* * *

     And some of the Pharisees called to Him from the crowd, "Teacher, rebuke Your disciples." But He answered and said to them, "I tell you that if these should keep silent, the stones would immediately cry out."    Luke 19:39-40 NKJV

JESUS PRAYS FOR US

Read: John 17:1-26

     "I have brought you glory on earth by completing the work you gave me to do. And now, Father, glorify me in your presence with the glory I had with you before the world began." John 17:4-5 NIV

* * *

     Jesus spoke to His Father intentionally in the presence of His disciples. He was going to be entering Heaven very soon - restored to the glory He left behind when He became a man. The disciples must have been encouraged when they heard Him tell His Father,

     "I gave them the words you gave me and they accepted them. They knew with certainty that I came from you, and they believed that you sent me." (17:8) "... My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one." (17:15)

* * *

     Lord, I am so thankful that in this prayer You said, "My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message." (17:20) As I meditate on this chapter and all the words You said for them and for us - I claim these words for my family:

      "I in them and You in Me; that they may be made perfect in one, and that the world may know that You have sent Me, and have loved them as You have loved Me." (17:23)

* * *

     "I have declared to them Your name, and will declare it, that the love with which You loved Me may be in them, and I in them."   John 17:26 NKJV

SCATTERED BUT NOT ALONE

THE HELPER WILL COME

Read John 16:5–33

 

     "It is to your advantage that I go away; for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you; but if I depart, I will send Him to you." John 16:7 NKJV

* * *

     The disciples were still trying to grasp what Jesus was telling them. He was preparing them for the frightening, sorrowful days ahead when they would be scattered in fear. He said, "Therefore you now have sorrow; but I will see you again and your heart will rejoice, and your joy no one will take from you." (16:22)

     At one point, the men thought they understood; they said, "See, now You are speaking plainly, and using no figure of speech! Now we are sure that You know all things, and have no need that anyone should question You. By this we believe that You came forth from God." (16:29–30)

     Jesus replied, "Do you now believe? Indeed the hour is coming, yes, has now come, that you will be scattered, each to his own, and will leave Me alone. And yet I am not alone, because the Father is with Me.” (16:31-32)

    The disciples would indeed be scattered, but they would be gathered again, empowered by the Holy Spirit, and made into the foundation of a church that would turn the world upside down.

* * *

     Lord, I see from the lives of these men that I don't have to understand all that You are doing in the world. I just have to trust that You are the Son of God who has taken away my sin, and promised a fruitful, abundant life, by the power of Your Holy Spirit.

* * *

     "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."   John 16:33 NKJV

ABIDE IN ME

FRUIT THAT REMAINS

READ:  John 15:1-17

     "I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing."   John 15:5 NKJV

* * *

     These final words of Jesus to His beloved apostles are of utmost importance, both to them and to us. He was going away and they would carry on the work of spreading the gospel to the world. They did not yet have the indwelling Holy Spirit – but soon they would.

     Jesus said, "You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain…"(15:16)  How were they going to be able to accomplish this? Jesus said, "…The branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine…If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you." (15:4b, 7)

* * * 

     Dear Lord, I know that apart from You we will not see lasting fruit in our lives. I come to You this morning as an act of abiding in You. Speak to me from Your Word and plant Your will deep within my heart. I am asking and You have promised that it shall be done. I claim that promise today.

* * *

     "These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full." John 15:11 NKJV

CHRIST IN YOU

LET NOT YOUR HEART BE TROUBLED

Read: John 14:1-31

     "Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me." John 14:1 NKJV

* * *

      The disciples still did not quite understand the clues Jesus had given about His coming death and resurrection: Thomas questioned Him about where He was going, saying, "Lord, we do not know where You are going, and how can we know the way?" Jesus said to him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me. (John 14:5-6 NKJV)

      Then Philip said, "Lord, show us the Father, and it is sufficient for us." Jesus said to him, "Have I been with you so long, and yet you have not known Me, Philip? He who has seen Me has seen the Father;" (14:8–9 NKJV)

      Then Jesus promised, "I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever–the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you." (14:16–17 NKJV)

* * *

      God the Father would send His Holy Spirit not only to dwell with them–but in them. The Holy Trinity– Father, Son and Holy Spirit –all working together to abide in us forever! Thank You, Lord for this incomparable truth: "Christ in you, the hope of glory." (Colossians 1:27)

* * *

      "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, neither let it be afraid." John 14:27 NKJV

JESUS' LAST PASSOVER

Read Luke 22:1-23

      Then came the Day of Unleavened Bread, when the Passover must be killed. And He sent Peter and John, saying, "Go and prepare the Passover for us, that we may eat." Luke 22:7–8 NKJV

* * *

      The feast of the Passover celebrated the day when God delivered the Jews from Egypt. The blood of the lamb was placed on the top and sides of the doorposts in the sign of a cross. The wine of the Passover feast represented the blood of the Passover lamb. On this occasion Jesus said, "This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is shed for you."   (Luke 22:20 NKJV)

* * *

      Jesus was the Lamb of God who would take away the sin of the world and give eternal life to all who believe. The time had finally come when Jesus would fulfill this prophesy: Then He said to them, "With fervent desire I have desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer. . . But behold, the hand of My betrayer is with Me on the table. And truly the Son of Man goes as it has been determined, but woe to that man by whom He is betrayed!" (22:15, 21-22 NKJV) Jesus knew He would suffer, He knew who would betray Him and He knew who would be with Him in His kingdom.

* * *

     Lord, thank you for giving Your life blood so that we could live eternally in Your presence. One day, those of us who have believed will see You face to face and we will bow down in worship and praise for all You accomplished for us as the ultimate Passover Lamb.

* * *

     "I lay down My life that I may take it again. No one takes it from Me, but I lay it down of Myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. " (John 10:17b-18 NKJV)

* * *

      And He took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, "This is My body which is given for you; do this in remembrance of Me." Luke 22:19 NKJV

ABRAHAM AND SARAH

IS ANYTHING TOO HARD FOR THE LORD?

Read Genesis 17:1–18:15

      Then the LORD said to Abraham, "Why did Sarah laugh and say, 'Will I really have a child, now that I am old?' Is anything too hard for the LORD?"   Genesis 18:13–14a NIV

* * *

      At the age of ninety nine, God once again appeared to Abraham to confirm His covenant promise. He said to Abraham, "As for Sarai your wife … I will bless her and will surely give you a son by her. I will bless her so that she will be the mother of nations; kings of peoples will come from her." (Genesis 17:15a–16) By this, Abraham knew that the promise was not for Hagar’s son, Ishmael, but for a son that God would give him through Sarah.

* * *

      We are not told the reason why God waited so long to fulfill His promise to Abraham. It may be that He and Sarah had to come to the end of themselves and their own efforts. Unfortunately, their impatience caused great heartache for them and the generations that followed.

* * *

      Lord, help me to be patient when Your answers are long in coming. I know that nothing is too hard for You, but sometimes my thoughts and actions don’t reflect that belief. Give me discernment to know when I should move ahead and act, and when I should just wait on You. Take away the anxiety I experience when things seem out of control and grant me the peace that comes only from You.

* * *

      "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus".     Philippians 4:6–7 NIV

IN HONOR OF PURIM - PART 2

MORDECAI - A FOILED CONSPIRACY

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

IN HONOR OF PURIM

FOR SUCH A TIME AS THIS

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. Her 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 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

THE GOD WHO SEES ME

HAGAR

Read Genesis 15:1–16:15; Genesis 21:8–21

      She (Hagar) 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." Genesis 16:13 NIV

* * *

      The story of Hagar is bitter-sweet. Hagar was an Egyptian maidservant forced to become a surrogate mother for Abraham and Sarah; she had few choices in life. So after she bore Abraham's son, she became disrespectful to Sarah.
      Hagar's teenage son reflected her attitude by mocking Sarah’s son, Isaac and causing distress in the family. Hagar was told by an angel that her son would become a “wild donkey of a man”– and yet, God cared about her – He never left her alone, even when Abraham and Sarah drove her away.
     God actually spoke to Hagar the Egyptian maidservant and promised her that He had long range plans for her son and his descendants, the Ishmaelites.

* * *

      Lord, when life seems out of control and family conflicts arise, help me to remember that You see it all. Help us to seek your wisdom in raising our children so that they will be followers of Christ, not “wild donkeys.” Give us the wisdom to discipline and teach them Your ways. Bless our family Lord, even to our children’s children.

* * *

      "For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be."    Psalm 139:13,16b NIV

THE TOWER OF BABEL

Read Genesis 11:1–9

     "Then God blessed Noah and his sons, saying to them, "Be fruitful and increase in number and fill the earth." Genesis 9:1 NIV

* * *

      In the very beginning when God created Adam and Eve, He blessed them, and said to them, "Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it." (Genesis 1:28) Then after God judged the earth and wiped out all but Noah's family, He once again told them to be fruitful and fill the earth.
      Many generations later, in rebellion against God, the people of Babel built a massive tower and said, "Let us make a name for ourselves and not be scattered over the face of the whole earth."

     They failed to take into consideration our sovereign triune God, whose plans will not be thwarted. He said, "Come, let us go down and confuse their language so they will not understand each other." So the LORD scattered them from there over all the earth. (Genesis 11:4, 7–8)

* * *

      Lord, it seems apparent that the only way to true success in life is to seek Your will when we make our plans. Give me a willing heart to listen and obey the principles in Your Word. Help us to seek after You as a family, asking You for the gift of wisdom in every decision

* * *

     "That is why it was called Babel–because there the LORD confused the language of the whole world and scattered them over the face of the whole earth." Genesis 11:9 NIV

I WILL REMEMBER

THE RAINBOW

Read Genesis 8:1–9:17

      "Whenever the rainbow appears in the clouds, I will see it and remember…" Genesis 9:16 NIV

* * *

      Having never before experienced a rainstorm, much less a worldwide flood; Noah and his family spent more than a year inside the ark with animals of every description. After seven months, the ark came to rest on the mountains of Ararat.(Genesis 8:4)

      When the earth was completely dry after another five months, Noah and his family finally stood on solid ground. Before anything else, Noah built an altar of worship to the Lord. God promised Noah and his sons,

     "Never again will all life be cut off by the waters of a flood– This is the sign of the covenant I am making between me and you and every living creature with you, a covenant for all generations to come…" (9:11–13)

     And then they saw it–a beautiful, indescribable glow of colors stretched from earth to Heaven and back to earth again - the first rainbow!

* * *

      Lord, I am thankful that You see every rainbow in the world, and none of Your promises will ever be forgotten. Today I am claiming Your promises of protection, wisdom, and victory for our family. In the midst of difficult circumstances, help us to trust and obey just like Noah. I am depending on You to bring our family safely through this life into Heaven. May each one come to know You in a personal way, trusting in your promises for all of life’s challenges.

* * *

     “The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off–for all whom the Lord our God will call." Acts 2:39 NIV

NOAH FOUND FAVOR

Read Genesis 6

     The LORD was grieved that he had made man on the earth, and his heart was filled with pain… but Noah found favor in the eyes of the LORD. Genesis 6:6, 8 NIV

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      Noah lived in the most wicked generation this world has ever known, where not a single family followed God. We are told that "The LORD saw how great man's wickedness on the earth had become, and that every inclination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil all the time." (Genesis 6:5)

     Yet Noah’s testimony was so strong that his wife, his sons and even his daughters-in-law respected and followed him in obedience to God. This should give us encouragement and hope for raising a godly family in our own ungodly culture.

***

      Sin is not only a travesty to us, Lord, for You said that Your "heart was filled with pain." I know that my impatient, unkind and angry thoughts are all a source of grief to You. I also know that You are my only source of healing, forgiveness and strength. Help me to come to You faithfully every day to find cleansing and forgiveness. Only then can I be the wife, mother and friend who will please you and uplift the ones I love. Help me to live a consistent Christian life so that our children will want to follow You.

***

      The LORD then said to Noah, "Go into the ark, you and your whole family, because I have found you righteous in this generation."   Genesis 7:1 NIV

HE WALKED WITH GOD

ENOCH

Read Genesis 5:1–32 ; Hebrews 11:5

      “Enoch walked with God then he was no more, because God took him away … Enoch was commended as one who pleased God." Genesis 5:24; Hebrews 11:5 NIV

***

      Very little is said in Genesis about Enoch. We read about him again in the New Testament and find that Enoch was a powerful preacher who prophesied, "See, the Lord is coming with thousands upon thousands of his holy ones…” speaking of a yet future day. (Jude 14b)
      He is mentioned again in Hebrews, as one whose faith was counted for righteousness. Then one day, as Enoch walked with God, he was taken from this life, so that he did not experience death; he could not be found, because God had taken him away. (Hebrews 11:5a)

***

      Our lives may seem insignificant in the grand scheme of things, but God honors those who place their faith in Him. We, like Enoch, can look forward to eternal life and perhaps even the Lord's return in our lifetime. (1Thessalonians 4:17)
      Lord, give us the faith to trust You in every decision we make, so that we will bring glory to Your name. Help our children to walk as “children of light–finding out what pleases the Lord.”(Ephesians 5:8b,10) Make us all like Enoch who walked with God.

***

      "… before he was taken, he was commended as one who pleased God. And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him." Hebrews 11:5b–6 NIV

MADE IN HIS IMAGE

ADAM AND EVE

Read Genesis 1:26–3:24

      Then God said, "Let us make man in our image, in our likeness,”… male and female he created them. Genesis 1:26a, 27b NIV

* * *

      God created the heavens and the earth and all the living things that inhabited its boundaries. Then He created the first man in the likeness of Himself and He called him Adam. Adam named all the animals and found none among them that could cure his loneliness.
      So God made from Adam's side a woman, and Adam named his wife Eve, because she would become the mother of all the living. (Genesis 3:20) Both husband and wife were fashioned in the image of the triune God – Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

* * *

      Dear Father, that little word "us" is our first glimpse of the Trinity, all present when You created the first married couple in Your image – body, soul and spirit. Sadly, those first wonderful days together were overshadowed by sin. Thank You Lord, that You made a way to restore the family resemblance we once had to You. Continue to work in my heart, through Your Holy Spirit, and may that transformation be visibly reflected in my attitude and countenance – that others will see Jesus in me.

* * *

      "Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is – his good, pleasing and perfect will."     Romans 12:2 NIV

IN THE BEGINNING

Read Genesis 1:1–2:2, John 1:1–4

      And God said, "Let there be light," and there was light. Genesis 1:3 NIV

***

      "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made." (John 1:1–3 NKJV)
     We worship a God who brought forth an entire universe just by speaking. He is so powerful, and yet Jesus said, “The very hairs of your head are all numbered.”(Matthew 10:30)
      There is nothing that concerns me that He misses or ignores. This same Lord of the universe ─ Father, Son and Holy Spirit ─ will be with me throughout eternity.

***

      Thank You, Lord, that nothing in my life goes unnoticed by You. As I marvel in the matchless beauty of the moon and stars on a cloudless night, how comforting it is to know that You see me.
      No matter how hectic life is, as I hurry about from day to day, You are always there to listen and guide my steps – And You will be there when my life on earth is completed and my faith becomes sight. For then I will see the “God who sees me.” Genesis 16:13

***

      "You know when I sit and when I rise; You perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; You are familiar with all my ways. Before a word is on my tongue, You know it completely, O LORD."  Psalm 139:2–4 NIV

THE LUKEWARM CHURCH

LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Laodicea

[63]
Read Revelation 3:14-22

      "I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot. So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth.   Revelation 3:15-16 NKJV

* * *

      The church at Laodicea was proud and prosperous. Many see a comparison to the churches of today, with fine buildings and multiple programs. Jesus points out their pride saying,
      “Because you say, 'I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing' -- and do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked -- I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire, that you may be rich; and white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see.” (3:17-18)

      The interesting thing in this warning is that it seems to be a true church going in the wrong direction. Jesus said, “As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore be zealous and repent.” (3:19)

* * *

      Lord, it is so easy for us as believers to become apathetic and satisfied with the status quo. Forgive me of my lukewarm devotion to the ministry of our church. Light a fire in my soul that will not go out no matter what the circumstances – rich or poor. Help me to see others as You see them.

* * *

      “Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me.”  Revelation 3:20 NKJV

AN OPEN DOOR

LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Philadelphia

[62]

Read Revelation 3:7-13

      "I know your works. See, I have set before you an open door, and no one can shut it; for you have a little strength, have kept My word, and have not denied My name.” Revelation 3:8 NKJV

* * *

      These letters to the seven churches describe the actual events at the time of this writing but because of their placement in a prophetic vision, some have viewed them as typical of the church in various stages of history. 

     If this is a valid secondary interpretation, then the Philadelphia church most likely represents the churches of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries of missionary outreach. God truly has given and still gives an open door for missionary endeavor. How long this will be, we do not know, but the opportunity is there today.

      Others also see a composite picture of the church at any time in history. In this view the promise of deliverance is comforting: “Because you have kept My command to persevere, I also will keep you from the hour of trial which shall come upon the whole world, to test those who dwell on the earth. Behold, I am coming quickly!” (3:10-11a)

* * *

      Lord, I look forward to Your coming, perhaps in our lifetime. Help us to take advantage of the open door we have today for spreading the good news of salvation. Give me the opportunity to share my faith in You.

* * *

      These things says He who is holy, He who is true, "He who has the key of David, He who opens and no one shuts, and shuts and no one opens" Revelation 3:7b NKJV

NEW YEAR'S DAY THOUGHTS

        As we transition from 2011 into January 2012 it seems appropriate that we are coming to the last three of the letters to the churches in the book of Revelation. These seven letters contain both commendation and warnings to the churches past, present and future by our Lord Jesus Christ.

For instance, the church at Ephesus was commended for their discernment of false teaching, but still Jesus said, “I have this against you that you have left your first love.”

The believers at Pergamum were standing up for their faith even unto martyrdom, and yet they were tolerating those among them who were a “stumbling block to Israel” by eating meat sacrificed to idols and committing sexual immorality.

* * *

I am entering this New Year asking God to point out areas where there is more to be done in my spiritual life. I want Him to point out any blind spots that would be a stumbling block to others.

In times of stress, I want a renewal of that first love for Jesus and His children. I am also asking for His blessing on my blogs as they go out to people I will never see on this earth, but who I certainly hope to see in Heaven someday.

* * *

        Next month I will begin a journey through the Old Testament looking at the lives of real people who lived long ago and a God who is the same yesterday, today and forever. I will only scratch the surface in each book with this brief and personal focus, so I want to encourage my readers to begin a reading program that will take you much deeper into the teachings of Scripture.

        I will continue to post once a week on selected readings from each book with brief commentary, Bible quotes and a prayer of personal application. Readings will be linked to BlueLetterBible.com online for your convenience.

* * *

I especially want to wish a Happy New Year to those of you who have been with me on this journey through the Bible since the beginning of 2008. Once again we will begin at the beginning hoping to glean new insights and encouragement from the Holy Word of God.

Love in Christ,
Charlotte Mathis
January 1, 2012

THE DEAD CHURCH

LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Sardis

[61]

Read Revelation 3:1-6

      "I know your works, that you have a name that you are alive, but you are dead. Revelation 3:1b NKJV

* * *

      The church in Sardis may have been an active busy church, but spiritually Jesus pronounces them dead – or at least ready to die. He says, “Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die, for I have not found your works perfect before God." (3:2)

      This church was not looking for the return of Jesus and though there was a spark of life, it was ready to go out. He warns them, “Therefore if you will not watch, I will come upon you as a thief, and you will not know what hour I will come upon you.” Revelation 3:3b

      Like many cold churches today, Sardis had some who were still trusting in Christ. He says of them, “You have a few names even in Sardis who have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with Me in white, for they are worthy.” (3:4)

      This reminds me of the parable of the wedding feast where a man tried to enter without the proper wedding garment. This garment is the righteousness which true believers receive when they trust in Christ – sins washed away as white as snow.

* * *

      Father, I am anticipating Jesus’ return, hoping that perhaps our generation will be the one that sees the return of Your Son. Thank you that He is the One who makes us worthy to walk with You in white.

* * *

      "Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is coming."    Matthew 25:13 NKJV

DISCERNMENT

LETTERS TO THE CHURCHES - Thyatira
[60]

Read Revelation 2:18-29

      "I know your works, love, service, faith, and your patience; and as for your works, the last are more than the first. Nevertheless I have a few things against you... Revelation 2:19-20A NKJV

* * *

      The church at Thyatira, much like Pergamum, was influenced by pagan religion and immorality. Like many today, they mixed their Christianity with occult practices. Jesus refers to these practices as the "depths of Satan." (2:24).

      Teachers of this corrupt form of Christianity were followers of demons and will be judged along with Satan in the future. When judgment comes He says, “...all the churches shall know that I am He who searches the minds and hearts. And I will give to each one of you according to your works.” (2:23)

     There was still a remnant of faithful believers at Thyatira and to them He says, "Now to you I say, and to the rest in Thyatira, as many as do not have this doctrine, who have not known the depths of Satan, as they say, I will put on you no other burden. But hold fast what you have till I come” (2:24-25)

* * *

      Lord, these verses remind me how careful we must be about what is taught in our churches. False teaching seems to creep in so easily and true believers need discernment. Keep us in Your Word so that we can recognize counterfeit Christianity by knowing the Truth.

* * *

      "And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in knowledge and all discernment, that you may approve the things that are excellent, that you may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ," Philippians 1:9-10 NKJV

A NEW NAME

THE COMPROMISING CHURCH
[59]

Read Revelation 2:12-17

      “...you hold fast to My name, and did not deny My faith even in the days in which Antipas was My faithful martyr, who was killed among you, where Satan dwells.” Revelation 2:13b NKJV

* * *

      These faithful believers in Pergamum were standing up for the faith even unto martyrdom. “But” Jesus said, “I have a few things against you, because you have there those who hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balak to put a stumbling block before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed to idols, and to commit sexual immorality. (Revelation 2:14)

      The idolatrous culture around them, including temple prostitution, was a snare to the church. This was such an important matter that Jesus said “Repent, or else I will come to you quickly and will fight against them with the sword of My mouth.” (Revelation 2:16)

      What a horrible thought that the Lord Jesus himself would fight against a church. We must not take lightly the instructions for purity in the Christian’s life. It is possible to be right in the main, and yet compromise our values in our personal lives and the teaching of the church.

* * *

     Lord, protect our church against the infiltration of false doctrine and immorality. Give us the ‘hidden manna” of Your Word and help us to live consistent lives that are worthy of our “new names” written in Heaven.

* * *

      He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. “To him who overcomes I will give some of the hidden manna to eat. And I will give him a white stone, and on the stone a new name written which no one knows except him who receives it.”     Revelation 2:17 NKJV