9 but keep watching it. If it goes up to its own territory, toward Beth Shemesh, then the LORD has brought this great disaster on us. But if it does not, then we will know that it was not his hand that struck us but that it happened to us by chance.”...12 Then the cows went straight up toward Beth Shemesh, keeping on the road and lowing all the way; they did not turn to the right or to the left...
Well I'm not sure why God would demonstrate his power and control to the Philistines in this way? But it sure appears he did just that--I don't think the cows would have gone straight by chance, it a good reminder for me of how He is in control.
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
1 Samuel 5
3 When the people of Ashdod rose early the next day, there was Dagon, fallen on his face on the ground before the ark of the LORD! They took Dagon and put him back in his place.
So repeatedly God gives the Philistines signs to let them know stop worshiping your false God but instead they put their idol back up in place. They even openly recognize the God of Israel is not happy with them and their false idol, yet they choose to try and get away from him rather than seeking him.
It seems like silly behavior when you read it, but then how often do I put other things of this world in front of God--time seems like the big one, I'm always busy with other stuff like work, sports, TV, etc. probably more false gods then I'd like to believe if I'm honest with myself.
So repeatedly God gives the Philistines signs to let them know stop worshiping your false God but instead they put their idol back up in place. They even openly recognize the God of Israel is not happy with them and their false idol, yet they choose to try and get away from him rather than seeking him.
It seems like silly behavior when you read it, but then how often do I put other things of this world in front of God--time seems like the big one, I'm always busy with other stuff like work, sports, TV, etc. probably more false gods then I'd like to believe if I'm honest with myself.
Monday, December 19, 2011
1 Samuel 4 -knut
3 When the soldiers returned to camp, the elders of Israel asked, “Why did the LORD bring defeat on us today before the Philistines? Let us bring the ark of the LORD’s covenant from Shiloh, so that he may go with us and save us from the hand of our enemies.”
It seems this is another example of how placing your trust in something other than God himself--a false idol gets you no where. Here they take the Ark of the Covenant with them into battle and come up short because they are placing their trust in it, rather than praying to God and asking for his help. How often do I miss place my trust in something other than God? Having a good job sometimes leads me to the trap of believing we have the ability to provide for ourselves rather than remembering that all we have (including this good job) are provided by God. Don't worship things, including intangible things like a good job.
It seems this is another example of how placing your trust in something other than God himself--a false idol gets you no where. Here they take the Ark of the Covenant with them into battle and come up short because they are placing their trust in it, rather than praying to God and asking for his help. How often do I miss place my trust in something other than God? Having a good job sometimes leads me to the trap of believing we have the ability to provide for ourselves rather than remembering that all we have (including this good job) are provided by God. Don't worship things, including intangible things like a good job.
Friday, December 16, 2011
1 Samuel 3
8 A third time the LORD called, “Samuel!” And Samuel got up and went to Eli and said, “Here I am; you called me.”
Then Eli realized that the LORD was calling the boy.
I don't think I'm very good at listening for God. This chapter tells me not only do I need to do a better job of listening to those times God is clearly speaking too me and I am either ignoring it or allowing other noise to drown him out--but also a responsibility I have to help both Luke and Katelyn learn to listen for when God may be speaking to them and help them learn to have their own relationship with him.
Thursday, December 15, 2011
1 Samuel 2 -knut
There is a lot going on in this chapter but, I like this simple statement in Hannah's prayer--
9 He will guard the feet of his faithful servants,
but the wicked will be silenced in the place of darkness.
but the wicked will be silenced in the place of darkness.
“It is not by strength that one prevails;
Its not by my own strength, smarts or resources that I will live a blessed life, its by being faithful to God and the path he is leading my feet down. Easier said than done but I want my feet to be under His guard.
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
1 Samuel 1 -knut
11 And she made a vow, saying, “LORD Almighty, if you will only look on your servant’s misery and remember me, and not forget your servant but give her a son, then I will give him to the LORD for all the days of his life, and no razor will ever be used on his head.”
I took from this its OK to ask God for something your soul needs to be happy--sometimes I don't feel like I should be asking. Hannah was is misery without a child, she asked God to allow her to have a child--and in this case he answered yes. Maybe he won't always give us we want or ask for, but Hannah's story tells me its OK to have that conversation with Him--in fact I think he wants us to have the conversation.
I took from this its OK to ask God for something your soul needs to be happy--sometimes I don't feel like I should be asking. Hannah was is misery without a child, she asked God to allow her to have a child--and in this case he answered yes. Maybe he won't always give us we want or ask for, but Hannah's story tells me its OK to have that conversation with Him--in fact I think he wants us to have the conversation.
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Ruth 4 - t
Maintain your faith, even in the hard times. Don't ask God, "why would you allow this to happen?" Just remain in relationship with him, throughout it all. The significance of your life will outlast your time here. That's what speaks to me in this book/passage. It seems that in this day and age of instant gratification, we are really quick to jump ship if something isn't garnering immediate results. Ruth didn't live her life that way. She was going to stick to her God, through any circumstance. Because of that, God was able to use her in his larger plan.
Something pretty amazing to aspire to.
There are 1189 chapters in the bible.
According to my rough "designer math", we will finish the first loop in mid 2015!
tp
Something pretty amazing to aspire to.
There are 1189 chapters in the bible.
According to my rough "designer math", we will finish the first loop in mid 2015!
tp
Sunday, December 11, 2011
Ruth 3 - t
Pretty bold move, lying at the foot of his bed. Boaz seems to really take a liking to Ruth.......I'm guessing that when she got all cleaned up.....she was easy on the eyes. Why else would he ask the overseer who she was? I'm just saying'.
I know that customs are different back then.....but, I can't imagine that scenario playing itself out.
I think the message for me here is that if you are faithful.....God will see it and may reward you for it. There's no guarantee. I like those odds better than if you don't.
more later
tp
I know that customs are different back then.....but, I can't imagine that scenario playing itself out.
I think the message for me here is that if you are faithful.....God will see it and may reward you for it. There's no guarantee. I like those odds better than if you don't.
more later
tp
Friday, December 9, 2011
Ruth 2 - t
I've been struggling to keep consistent with this lately. It seems that life has become EXTREMELY busy.
I really like the book of Ruth. I think the first time I read it,....it seemed like an odd-ball to me. It doesn't really fit with the books around it.
This time, something else hit me. I think its more about how we treat each other. Its less about God interacting directly with the Israelite people, and more about their personal interaction. Maybe a better way to say it is.....we love each other because God loves us.
Ruth stayed committed to Naomi, even when she probably didn't need to. She followed her back to her homeland, which was a foreign place to her.
Boaz treated Ruth with respect, when he found her in his fields. It reads as if woman in the field were often treated very poorly.......it states they sometimes needed protection.
This reminds me of a story I just heard a couple of months back. I was at a Halloween party, talking to a guy that owns a christian bookstore in a very rough part of downtown Detroit. I asked him if he had a problem with shoplifters. His response surprised me. He said, "Yup, but I don't try to stop them......I treat it like the grain left in the row." That's a completely different mind-set than most of corporate America. We at GM are highly driven by squeezing every penny of profit margin out of every sale. This guy is trusting in God to provide him with enough sales to cover the cost of the people that can't pay.
I think that's pretty cool........and unusual.
I really like the book of Ruth. I think the first time I read it,....it seemed like an odd-ball to me. It doesn't really fit with the books around it.
This time, something else hit me. I think its more about how we treat each other. Its less about God interacting directly with the Israelite people, and more about their personal interaction. Maybe a better way to say it is.....we love each other because God loves us.
Ruth stayed committed to Naomi, even when she probably didn't need to. She followed her back to her homeland, which was a foreign place to her.
Boaz treated Ruth with respect, when he found her in his fields. It reads as if woman in the field were often treated very poorly.......it states they sometimes needed protection.
This reminds me of a story I just heard a couple of months back. I was at a Halloween party, talking to a guy that owns a christian bookstore in a very rough part of downtown Detroit. I asked him if he had a problem with shoplifters. His response surprised me. He said, "Yup, but I don't try to stop them......I treat it like the grain left in the row." That's a completely different mind-set than most of corporate America. We at GM are highly driven by squeezing every penny of profit margin out of every sale. This guy is trusting in God to provide him with enough sales to cover the cost of the people that can't pay.
I think that's pretty cool........and unusual.
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Ruth 1
16 But Ruth replied, “Don’t urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God.
I was struck by Ruth's loyalty to her mother-in-law and desire to stay with her and her God. I also enjoyed the more peaceful chapter than the reading in Judges. So no particular takeaway for me today. I did find the attached study if you like that connects some of the activities in this chapter to other books in the bible.
Monday, December 5, 2011
Judges 21 -knut
25 In those days Israel had no king; everyone did as they saw fit.... i.e. the mess continues.
The Israelites were rationalizing that they were staying true to their promises with God because they weren't breaking the letter of the law---but clearly they were breaking the intent. Their hearts weren't following God at all. They might make good defense lawyers, but I wouldn't want their help at the Pearly Gates.
I want to try to not only follow the letter of God's instructions, but also make sure I'm sincere. Its what its my heart that matters--God knows our hearts, we can't fool him by pretending to follow the letter of his law.
The Israelites were rationalizing that they were staying true to their promises with God because they weren't breaking the letter of the law---but clearly they were breaking the intent. Their hearts weren't following God at all. They might make good defense lawyers, but I wouldn't want their help at the Pearly Gates.
I want to try to not only follow the letter of God's instructions, but also make sure I'm sincere. Its what its my heart that matters--God knows our hearts, we can't fool him by pretending to follow the letter of his law.
Sunday, December 4, 2011
Judges 21
Wives for the Benjamites -
While the young women were dancing, each man caught one and carried her off to be his wife.
If only it was that easy! It all seems underhanded and seedy!
While the young women were dancing, each man caught one and carried her off to be his wife.
If only it was that easy! It all seems underhanded and seedy!
Friday, December 2, 2011
Judges 20 -knut
13 Now turn those wicked men of Gibeah over to us so that we may put them to death and purge the evil from Israel.”
What a mess Israel turned into, and since the Benjamites were unwilling to turn over the individuals responsible for these terrible acts the end result is civil war.
The cancer needs to be removed in total to save the entire body, perhaps not all the Benjamites were bad but their willingness to defend or at minimum turn a blind eye to such atrocities makes them guilty by association. These last couple chapters remind me of the Penn State situation. History repeats itself.
What a mess Israel turned into, and since the Benjamites were unwilling to turn over the individuals responsible for these terrible acts the end result is civil war.
The cancer needs to be removed in total to save the entire body, perhaps not all the Benjamites were bad but their willingness to defend or at minimum turn a blind eye to such atrocities makes them guilty by association. These last couple chapters remind me of the Penn State situation. History repeats itself.
Thursday, December 1, 2011
Judges 19 -knut
1 In those days Israel had no king. ...
the rest of this chapter is pretty disturbing, perhaps tied to the fact that Israel was without a king and no moral compass. The story seems so unbelievable and barbaric. Then again we don't seem much better today when you think of the recent news scandals, and we only hear about the ones involving famous people.
Maybe God put this in the bible to demonstrate how bad things can get when he is not in our life?
the rest of this chapter is pretty disturbing, perhaps tied to the fact that Israel was without a king and no moral compass. The story seems so unbelievable and barbaric. Then again we don't seem much better today when you think of the recent news scandals, and we only hear about the ones involving famous people.
Maybe God put this in the bible to demonstrate how bad things can get when he is not in our life?
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Judges 18 - t
Ok, back on track today. I think I finally got all the Turkey out of my system.
It seems there are 2 stories going on at once here, and they converge at Micah's house.
“Be quiet! Don’t say a word. Come with us, and be our father and priest. Isn’t it better that you serve a tribe and clan in Israel as priest rather than just one man’s household?” 20 The priest was very pleased.
I find this verse to be very telling. The priest is supposed to be the person keeping those around them on track to following God. They are supposed to be the "example". But, in this case the human side of the priest comes out, and he gives in to flattery. I really don't think God cares how large your congregation is.
I do, however, like how the Danites stopped to ask the priest if he thought God would be on their side in the battle.......I go into battle, many times, without really asking myself if God is with me. Is it really something that is worth fighting over?.......or am I acting more like Micah, and asking the priest to come live with me, because I think it covers the other thing I'm doing that aren't so good in the eyes of the Lord.
It seems there are 2 stories going on at once here, and they converge at Micah's house.
“Be quiet! Don’t say a word. Come with us, and be our father and priest. Isn’t it better that you serve a tribe and clan in Israel as priest rather than just one man’s household?” 20 The priest was very pleased.
I find this verse to be very telling. The priest is supposed to be the person keeping those around them on track to following God. They are supposed to be the "example". But, in this case the human side of the priest comes out, and he gives in to flattery. I really don't think God cares how large your congregation is.
I do, however, like how the Danites stopped to ask the priest if he thought God would be on their side in the battle.......I go into battle, many times, without really asking myself if God is with me. Is it really something that is worth fighting over?.......or am I acting more like Micah, and asking the priest to come live with me, because I think it covers the other thing I'm doing that aren't so good in the eyes of the Lord.
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Judges - t
My input today is in regards to the entire book of Judges up to this point.
It is very cyclical in nature. Israelites doing evil in the eyes of the Lord, and God allowing someone to conquer them. Here's my point.
Every time God raises someone up to help the nation out of bondage....its someone completely different than the last time. I was looking back through the chapters, and I'm amazed at the difference in the people, as well as their approach to God and his plan.
Take these 3 for example.
1. Deborah - we don't have a record of her speaking to God, or receiving a message from God......and probably the biggest thing that makes her unique is the fact that she is a woman. Women usually didn't hold offices at this point in history, and were almost considered second class citizens. And yet, God works his wonders through her.
2. Gideon- we find him thrashing wheat. He is the youngest/weakest man in the weakest tribe of Israel.....and God comes to him directly. Gideon needs several signs to convince him that God is really talking to him. But, when he is convinced, he turns into this great warrior for God. Everything he does is for the glory of God.
3. Samson - there isn't any narrative that talks of God speaking to Samson. The angel speaks to his parents, in preparation for him. Samson is the most outwardly strong hero we have seen. He has all the attributes needed to bring down the Phillistines. And yet, I don't see anything in the story that tells me that he is concerned about what God wants. He is almost the accidental hero for God. This is proof-positive that God can do his work through people that think they are acting according to their own plan. The other one that really gets me here, is that the Spirit of the Lord comes over Samson 3 times in his portion of the story. He is the only one where we see this.
This is only my opinion is that Samson has the worst attitude of all the heroes, and yet he receives the greatest gift. Doesn't that seem strange?
Three completely different people. Three completely different approaches to how to accomplish the goal. Three completely different attitudes. Crazy!
If you re-read about the other heroes, they are equally unique in their story/background/heart.
God is amazing! I don't always understand why/how he does things. But, I'm grateful to serve a God that is infinitely smarter than I am.
Have a great Turkey-Day.
go Lions!
It is very cyclical in nature. Israelites doing evil in the eyes of the Lord, and God allowing someone to conquer them. Here's my point.
Every time God raises someone up to help the nation out of bondage....its someone completely different than the last time. I was looking back through the chapters, and I'm amazed at the difference in the people, as well as their approach to God and his plan.
Take these 3 for example.
1. Deborah - we don't have a record of her speaking to God, or receiving a message from God......and probably the biggest thing that makes her unique is the fact that she is a woman. Women usually didn't hold offices at this point in history, and were almost considered second class citizens. And yet, God works his wonders through her.
2. Gideon- we find him thrashing wheat. He is the youngest/weakest man in the weakest tribe of Israel.....and God comes to him directly. Gideon needs several signs to convince him that God is really talking to him. But, when he is convinced, he turns into this great warrior for God. Everything he does is for the glory of God.
3. Samson - there isn't any narrative that talks of God speaking to Samson. The angel speaks to his parents, in preparation for him. Samson is the most outwardly strong hero we have seen. He has all the attributes needed to bring down the Phillistines. And yet, I don't see anything in the story that tells me that he is concerned about what God wants. He is almost the accidental hero for God. This is proof-positive that God can do his work through people that think they are acting according to their own plan. The other one that really gets me here, is that the Spirit of the Lord comes over Samson 3 times in his portion of the story. He is the only one where we see this.
This is only my opinion is that Samson has the worst attitude of all the heroes, and yet he receives the greatest gift. Doesn't that seem strange?
Three completely different people. Three completely different approaches to how to accomplish the goal. Three completely different attitudes. Crazy!
If you re-read about the other heroes, they are equally unique in their story/background/heart.
God is amazing! I don't always understand why/how he does things. But, I'm grateful to serve a God that is infinitely smarter than I am.
Have a great Turkey-Day.
go Lions!
Judges 17 -knut
13 And Micah said, “Now I know that the LORD will be good to me, since this Levite has become my priest.”
So Micah is clearly focused on the wrong things, having his idol and his ephod and basically worshiping false gods. So to make himself feel good he hires a priest to live with him, and now all is well in his mind.
Well clearly we don't do things exactly like that today-hiring priests to live with us. But it is a reminder to me to make sure I am genuine in my faith and relationship with God and not to do things to either make me feel better or give the appearance that I am faithful. Going to church, tithing and giving cheerfully back to God, volunteering for projects at church are all good things.. But I need to make sure I am doing them to honor, obey and grow closer to God, not just to make a good showing or fake myself into believing I am getting closer to God--its a heart thing and I know when I'm genuine and when I'm not.
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Judges 16 - t
Again Samson seems very selfish, and self motivated. Even when he prays to God for strength, he is doing it out of revenge for the Phillistines gouging out his eyes.....not because he wants to bring Glory to God. And yet, God is using his as part of his plan.
This is a great reminder to me that the people around me that I don't care for, or that don't act how I think they should act.....can still be an intricate part of Gods plan, and therefore command my respect and grace. Most times, I find that really hard!
The other thing in this chapter is the "fool me once shame on you...fool me twice, shame on me." I don't even know what you say when you try to fool me for the third time. Look, wives can be very persistent with their opinions/requests....BUY WHY WOULD HE EVER TELL HE THE TRUTH! It makes no sense. Was he really that tired of the nagging? Or, was this another part of God's plan, that he needed be subdued....to be in the temple......to kill the Phillistine leaders....to bring down that empire.
Here's my new outlook on the behavior of others;
If someone is acting really strangely, and out of the ordinary. I won't automatically assume they are crazy, maybe they are on a mission for God. Wouldn't it be great to be able to recognize that?......and join in the CRAZINESS?
This is a great reminder to me that the people around me that I don't care for, or that don't act how I think they should act.....can still be an intricate part of Gods plan, and therefore command my respect and grace. Most times, I find that really hard!
The other thing in this chapter is the "fool me once shame on you...fool me twice, shame on me." I don't even know what you say when you try to fool me for the third time. Look, wives can be very persistent with their opinions/requests....BUY WHY WOULD HE EVER TELL HE THE TRUTH! It makes no sense. Was he really that tired of the nagging? Or, was this another part of God's plan, that he needed be subdued....to be in the temple......to kill the Phillistine leaders....to bring down that empire.
Here's my new outlook on the behavior of others;
If someone is acting really strangely, and out of the ordinary. I won't automatically assume they are crazy, maybe they are on a mission for God. Wouldn't it be great to be able to recognize that?......and join in the CRAZINESS?
Monday, November 21, 2011
Judges 15 -knut
3 Samson said to them, “This time I have a right to get even with the Philistines; I will really harm them.”
7 Samson said to them, “Since you’ve acted like this, I swear that I won’t stop until I get my revenge on you.”
11 Then three thousand men from Judah went down to the cave in the rock of Etam and said to Samson, “Don’t you realize that the Philistines are rulers over us? What have you done to us?”
He answered, “I merely did to them what they did to me.”
Sampson sounds like a little kid, he hit me first. There is no turning of the other cheek in this chapter. So while God gave Sampson the strength to win his battle, my take away here is more around actions of hate and vengeance create more hate. I should avoid reacting to behaviors of others, I can only control myself.
Judges 15 - t
I've heard several sermons on Samson over the years. He seems larger than life.
The thing I have a hard time with, is that the narrative doesn't portray Samson as a truly Godly man. We don't see Samson's encounter with an Angel. We don't see him constantly praying to God for wisdom and strength. We only see him engaged in revenge and deceit. To be quite honest, he seems to act very selfishly.
Even this;
“You have given your servant this great victory. Must I now die of thirst and fall into the hands of the uncircumcised?” seems to be almost a challenge toward God, or a admonishment of God. And yet, the Spirit of the Lord comes over him a total of 3 times in the entire story of his life.
Comic Book type story of strength.......yes
Different attitude than we've seen before by the Judges.....absolutley!
more later
tp
The thing I have a hard time with, is that the narrative doesn't portray Samson as a truly Godly man. We don't see Samson's encounter with an Angel. We don't see him constantly praying to God for wisdom and strength. We only see him engaged in revenge and deceit. To be quite honest, he seems to act very selfishly.
Even this;
“You have given your servant this great victory. Must I now die of thirst and fall into the hands of the uncircumcised?” seems to be almost a challenge toward God, or a admonishment of God. And yet, the Spirit of the Lord comes over him a total of 3 times in the entire story of his life.
Comic Book type story of strength.......yes
Different attitude than we've seen before by the Judges.....absolutley!
more later
tp
Friday, November 18, 2011
judges 14 -t
This one is FULL of deceit!
The first thing that struck me was that Samson wanted a Phillistine woman. This was the downfall of the Israelites. Not ridding themselves of the evil people that were in the promised land before they got there....but, this time.....it was all part of God's plan.
The part that confuses me on this one is this:
Then the Spirit of the LORD came powerfully upon him. He went down to Ashkelon, struck down thirty of their men, stripped them of everything and gave their clothes to those who had explained the riddle.
Why would the Spirit of the Lord come over him to kill these 30 men?
Here's what I've got. God created Samson to free the Israelites from the Phillistines. I can only assume that these 30 dudes were Phillistines. So, even though this seems like a very shallow, selfish act by Samson...perhaps in God's eyes it was a small amount in the larger plan to kill MANY Phillistines.
Then, the entire deal with his wife being given to his companion......strange.
Then kill a lion, rip it limb from limb....then come back and find honey....strange.
then catch 300 foxes and tie their tails together, and tie torches to them......strange
fun to read though
The first thing that struck me was that Samson wanted a Phillistine woman. This was the downfall of the Israelites. Not ridding themselves of the evil people that were in the promised land before they got there....but, this time.....it was all part of God's plan.
The part that confuses me on this one is this:
Then the Spirit of the LORD came powerfully upon him. He went down to Ashkelon, struck down thirty of their men, stripped them of everything and gave their clothes to those who had explained the riddle.
Why would the Spirit of the Lord come over him to kill these 30 men?
Here's what I've got. God created Samson to free the Israelites from the Phillistines. I can only assume that these 30 dudes were Phillistines. So, even though this seems like a very shallow, selfish act by Samson...perhaps in God's eyes it was a small amount in the larger plan to kill MANY Phillistines.
Then, the entire deal with his wife being given to his companion......strange.
Then kill a lion, rip it limb from limb....then come back and find honey....strange.
then catch 300 foxes and tie their tails together, and tie torches to them......strange
fun to read though
Thursday, November 17, 2011
Judges 13 - t
"why do you ask me my name, it is beyond your understanding"
This is the verse that struck me out of this chapter. Manoah and his wife have just been given unbelievable news from an unbelievable source......and what is their only question?........What is your name.
I think I live my life like this sometimes. God is doing amazing things around me, and for
me.....and I'm focussed on the wrong thing. Well intentioned, but completely unfocussed.
The other thing is that the name of the angel was far beyond their understanding. Even his name........crazy.
Short entry, but something that really hit me.
I think I live my life like this sometimes. God is doing amazing things around me, and for
me.....and I'm focussed on the wrong thing. Well intentioned, but completely unfocussed.
The other thing is that the name of the angel was far beyond their understanding. Even his name........crazy.
Short entry, but something that really hit me.
Judges 13-knut
6 Then the woman went to her husband and told him, “A man of God came to me. He looked like an angel of God, very awesome. I didn’t ask him where he came from, and he didn’t tell me his name.
Today I was struck by the faithfulness of both Zorah and his wife. They receive a message that she is pregnant even though she is barren. Rather than doubt and question, they seek guidance on how to raise the boy. I'm pretty sure I would have thought Gina was crazy if she gave me this message. (Note I did say thought, not 'told')
A scary prayer for me to pray, is that the next time I believe I hear God's instruction I follow it faithfully. I like to try to be in control, but I pray that I can have open ears to what he wants me to do in life and the faithfulness to do it.
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Judges 12 -knut
1 The Ephraimite forces were called out, and they crossed over to Zaphon. They said to Jephthah, “Why did you go to fight the Ammonites without calling us to go with you? We’re going to burn down your house over your head.”
People's pride can be a fragile thing. Here the Ephraimites go from apparent friends of Jephthah and the Gileadites to being so angry because they weren't asked to help fight a battle that now they want to fight their friend.
I'm not sure I am tracking, but was it just poor communication that lead to this fight? They wanted to be asked to help, and Jeppthah said he did ask and they didn't come---end result a battle. I'm not sure this is the point of the chapter but it does occur to me how easily poor communication can turn into a serious disagreement between good people--churches are not immune.
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Judges 11 - t
Well to be honest.....I didn't like reading this chapter. At first read, this one made me very confused. Why would God allow Jephthah to sacrifice his only daughter. God would never do that. Then I did a little reading on the side, and found out that the translation might be what is tripping me up here.
Here's what I found;
Question: "Did Jephthah sacrifice his daughter to the Lord?"
Answer: A judge of Israel, Jephthah, had made a foolish vow to the Lord that if God gave him victory in battle, he would sacrifice whatever first came out of his door when he came home (Judges 11:30-31). Jephthah’s daughter was the first thing to come of out his door when he came home (Judges 11:34). The Bible never specifically tells us whether Jephthah actually sacrificed his daughter as a burnt offering. Judges 11:39 seems to indicate that he did, "he did to her as he had vowed." However, since his daughter was mourning the fact that she would never marry instead of mourning that she was about to die (Judges 11:37-37), possibly indicates that Jephthah gave her to the tabernacle as a servant instead of sacrificing her.
Whatever the case, God had specifically forbidden offering human sacrifices, so God never would have wanted Jephthah to sacrifice his daughter (Leviticus 20:1-5). Jeremiah 7:31, 19:5, and 32:35clearly indicate that the idea of human sacrifice has "never even entered God's mind." Jephthah serves as an example for us, not to make foolish vows or oaths.
Answer: A judge of Israel, Jephthah, had made a foolish vow to the Lord that if God gave him victory in battle, he would sacrifice whatever first came out of his door when he came home (Judges 11:30-31). Jephthah’s daughter was the first thing to come of out his door when he came home (Judges 11:34). The Bible never specifically tells us whether Jephthah actually sacrificed his daughter as a burnt offering. Judges 11:39 seems to indicate that he did, "he did to her as he had vowed." However, since his daughter was mourning the fact that she would never marry instead of mourning that she was about to die (Judges 11:37-37), possibly indicates that Jephthah gave her to the tabernacle as a servant instead of sacrificing her.
Whatever the case, God had specifically forbidden offering human sacrifices, so God never would have wanted Jephthah to sacrifice his daughter (Leviticus 20:1-5). Jeremiah 7:31, 19:5, and 32:35clearly indicate that the idea of human sacrifice has "never even entered God's mind." Jephthah serves as an example for us, not to make foolish vows or oaths.
That's a great lesson for me to not make "deals" with God. Just let him be the Ultimate in my life,....and that's enough to focus on.
later
Monday, November 14, 2011
Judges 10 -knut
The Israelites were off worshiping other gods, and now they are back asking for forgiveness yet again. But God calls them out basically saying their words don't mean much, their actions speak volumes. They call on him when needed but easily fall back to their old ways once he has taken care of them. But---
So I was thinking what foreign gods do I worship. My drag racing comes to mind. I think about it all the time and spend a large amount of money doing it. God gave me this gift so I don't think God is telling me I have to get rid of it from my life. But I think I would need to be willing to get rid of it from my life if it were causing me to stray away from him.
Saturday, November 12, 2011
Maybe 10 years from now...
...this kinda of matched Todd's vision when he started our little blog page. Thought you might enjoy.
Friday, November 11, 2011
HAPPY BIRTHDAY OLD MAN!
What a unique date too 11/11/11. Hope you have a great day and remember you're now closer to 64 than you are to 22!
knut
knut
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Judges 9 - t
5 "He went to his father’s home in Ophrah and on one stone murdered his seventy brothers"
45 All that day Abimelek pressed his attack against the city until he had captured it and killed its people.
54 Hurriedly he called to his armor-bearer, “Draw your sword and kill me, so that they can’t say, ‘A woman killed him.’” So his servant ran him through, and he died. 55 When the Israelites saw that Abimelek was dead, they went home.
When I read the Old Testament, I'm struck by the apparent lack deep meaning for the lives of people. We've read several excerpts where the Israelites kill an entire village/town. Its almost as if the author could be writing about a crack in the sidewalk as easy as a man's skull getting cracked open. Don't you think that's odd? I wonder if life was so difficult back then, that people were dying around you all the time....and it really wasn't a BIG deal, like it is to us.
Thankfully, it happens very seldom to us, and is EXTREMELY dramatic and life changing.
Second thing;
56 Thus God repaid the wickedness that Abimelek had done to his father by murdering his seventy brothers. 57 God also made the people of Shechem pay for all their wickedness.
Don't mess with God or turn against him....he might let you go on for a while, but eventually God's judgment comes looking for you, and he always finds you. He even allowed Abimelek to rule over he land for a period of time....Abimelek probably thought he was "fine"
45 All that day Abimelek pressed his attack against the city until he had captured it and killed its people.
54 Hurriedly he called to his armor-bearer, “Draw your sword and kill me, so that they can’t say, ‘A woman killed him.’” So his servant ran him through, and he died. 55 When the Israelites saw that Abimelek was dead, they went home.
When I read the Old Testament, I'm struck by the apparent lack deep meaning for the lives of people. We've read several excerpts where the Israelites kill an entire village/town. Its almost as if the author could be writing about a crack in the sidewalk as easy as a man's skull getting cracked open. Don't you think that's odd? I wonder if life was so difficult back then, that people were dying around you all the time....and it really wasn't a BIG deal, like it is to us.
Thankfully, it happens very seldom to us, and is EXTREMELY dramatic and life changing.
Second thing;
56 Thus God repaid the wickedness that Abimelek had done to his father by murdering his seventy brothers. 57 God also made the people of Shechem pay for all their wickedness.
Don't mess with God or turn against him....he might let you go on for a while, but eventually God's judgment comes looking for you, and he always finds you. He even allowed Abimelek to rule over he land for a period of time....Abimelek probably thought he was "fine"
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Judges 8 - t
Sheesh! The same beat goes on and on!
Gideon's story is an interesting one overall. He is the weakest of his family, and is first seen threshing the wheat....which is the lowest job one could have. He wants no part of what the angel is telling him.....he has a hard time believing. Then, miraculously (I can only guess, by the Grace of God)...he is transformed into the fearless leader. That throws around statements like,
"Just for that, when the LORD has given Zebah and Zalmunna into my hand, I will tear your flesh with desert thorns and briers.”
That seems like a LONG way to come for one person, doesn't it?
I can relate to how the Ephraimites spoke to Gideon after his victory....
“Why have you treated us like this? Why didn’t you call us when you went to fight Midian?”
Its always nice to think you are on the winning team, and would have the courage to stand up, if you were called...but, a completely different thing to do it when the conflict is starring you in the face. It makes me think of the Joe Paterno situation....I keep hearing on the radio all the details, and the people calling in to say what they would have done......hind sight is always 20/20, but real courage takes blind faith sometimes.
Gideon's story is an interesting one overall. He is the weakest of his family, and is first seen threshing the wheat....which is the lowest job one could have. He wants no part of what the angel is telling him.....he has a hard time believing. Then, miraculously (I can only guess, by the Grace of God)...he is transformed into the fearless leader. That throws around statements like,
"Just for that, when the LORD has given Zebah and Zalmunna into my hand, I will tear your flesh with desert thorns and briers.”
That seems like a LONG way to come for one person, doesn't it?
I can relate to how the Ephraimites spoke to Gideon after his victory....
“Why have you treated us like this? Why didn’t you call us when you went to fight Midian?”
Its always nice to think you are on the winning team, and would have the courage to stand up, if you were called...but, a completely different thing to do it when the conflict is starring you in the face. It makes me think of the Joe Paterno situation....I keep hearing on the radio all the details, and the people calling in to say what they would have done......hind sight is always 20/20, but real courage takes blind faith sometimes.
Judges 7 -knut
So two thirds of Gideon's army were afraid to fight, lacking faith and were allowed to leave. They were followers who I presume had professed some faith in God and his promise to use Gideon to overtake Midianites, but when push came to shove they did have doubts. From the remaining 10,000 fearless (maybe more faithful followers?) God tells him to cut his numbers even further eventually down 300 from the original 32,000. He delivers on his promise with only 300 troops--clearly demonstrating he has the power to do anything.
I'd like to think I would have made the cut into the 10,000 but I have a feeling I would have been on the fearful side seeing how clearly we would be out numbered and doubting God could make this work out. I definitely need work in the area of living on faith, I tend to need things to be very logical or doubts creep into my thoughts.
later, knut
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Judges 6 -knut
So the cycle continues, we are introduced to the next prophet Gideon who will lead the Israelites out again from a dark period. Gideon appears to be a different leader than others in that he is less confident. He wants to serve the Lord yet needs signs that what he is hearing is real and not just something he made up in his own mind. So this feels like someone I can relate too, he's less confident or mature in his faith than he would probably like to be.
Deuteronomy 6:16: “You shall not put the Lord your God to the test.”. Yet Gideon in this chapter does test God and God answers the test--not even showing any frustration with the test. So why is it okay for Gideon to test God? One perspective I read was that Gideon was not testing God seeking blessing, but instead just trying to confirm that he heard him right before he goes on to do what he believes God commanded. So while it would probably be better if his faith and connection to God were so strong that he knew the moment he heard the command it was from God and not his own ideas, but maybe its okay to ask for some reassurance from God--but I think we should try not to make a habit of it as it demonstrates some weakness in our faith.
This reminds me of when we were trying to figure out if we should move to the QC back in 2008. We prayed about it asking for signs we should go or even better not to go! I wish I would have documented how many signs God gave us before we said okay we get it. In that case neither Gina or I wanted to go and we were ignoring the clear messages we were getting, eventually it was overwhelming. Hopefully we have grown and would listen better today, but I suspect I have a little Israelite in me--I might find myself wanting to do my own thing. I'm rambling now but its also interesting that God picked someone who considers himself weak to do great things.
Funny after my first read through this I got little, now as I type I feel like maybe I need to re-read again as I am seeing many lessons captured in this chapter. have a great day
Sunday, November 6, 2011
Judges 5 -t
Ummmmmmm.....I got nothin'
These Old Testament songs are difficult. I can't imagine singing that.
Anyone else?
These Old Testament songs are difficult. I can't imagine singing that.
Anyone else?
Friday, November 4, 2011
Judges 4 - t
Tent stake to the temple? Man, that's harsh. I'm not sure I could do that under the most extreme situation.
I feel like every chapter in Judges is the same story.
Israelites turning away from God,
God handing them into some armies hands,
and then raising up a hero,
who triumphantly beats a massive army with a inferior force.
The difference here is that the hero is a woman. That must have been a HUGE deal in that culture!
To be crushed by an inferior army, commanded by a woman was probably deflating, to say the least.
We've talked a lot about the need for faith...that God will show up when needed, or called upon.
And the need to be aware of the evil around us and the influence that it can have.
Those themes definitely run threw this chapter, likewise.
I feel like every chapter in Judges is the same story.
Israelites turning away from God,
God handing them into some armies hands,
and then raising up a hero,
who triumphantly beats a massive army with a inferior force.
The difference here is that the hero is a woman. That must have been a HUGE deal in that culture!
To be crushed by an inferior army, commanded by a woman was probably deflating, to say the least.
We've talked a lot about the need for faith...that God will show up when needed, or called upon.
And the need to be aware of the evil around us and the influence that it can have.
Those themes definitely run threw this chapter, likewise.
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Judges 3 - t - cont.
You said your kids will love this passage.......are you discussing what you read with them? If so, MAJOR KUDOS! How are you doing that? I'm been wanting to bring Max/Ben into this, but haven't been very successfull yet.
rock on!
rock on!
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Judges 3 - t
Look.....I like a good poop joke as much as the next guy, but this one is too easy.
I break this one down into a couple of different points.
I read the first part about the Israelites inter-marrying, and mingling with the tribes God left in place to test them. It reminded me of our conversations around the end of Joshua.....and the negative influences around us. Is God putting those people/things in place to test my faith? It makes me think.
The story of Ehud just makes me laugh.....here's my favorite line;
He must be relieving himself in the inner room of the palace.” 25 They waited to the point of embarrassment.
I guess its true....God can use any circumstance to his advantage.
I like how God is always faithful, and raises up someone that can defeat the oppressors that are holding the Israelites down. That gives me great peace to know that God will always come to our rescue.....even if our circumstance is self inflicted. He always forgives, and provides a way for us to dig ourselves out.
I break this one down into a couple of different points.
I read the first part about the Israelites inter-marrying, and mingling with the tribes God left in place to test them. It reminded me of our conversations around the end of Joshua.....and the negative influences around us. Is God putting those people/things in place to test my faith? It makes me think.
The story of Ehud just makes me laugh.....here's my favorite line;
He must be relieving himself in the inner room of the palace.” 25 They waited to the point of embarrassment.
I guess its true....God can use any circumstance to his advantage.
I like how God is always faithful, and raises up someone that can defeat the oppressors that are holding the Israelites down. That gives me great peace to know that God will always come to our rescue.....even if our circumstance is self inflicted. He always forgives, and provides a way for us to dig ourselves out.
Judges 2 -knut
10 After that whole generation had been gathered to their ancestors, another generation grew up who knew neither the LORD nor what he had done for Israel. 11 Then the Israelites did evil in the eyes of the LORD...
You can't follow the Lord if you don't know his ways. Even the Israelites lost their connection and faithfulness to God in just a generation. This might not be the point of this chapter but it hit me to make sure I help Luke and Katelyn know God and his word. Its hard enough to follow faithfully even when you know better, but if you haven't been introduced to Him and taught what his word says you are really fighting an up hill battle to avoid evil, just like the generation of the Israelites in this chapter.
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Judges 1 -knut
I was observing today that while the Israelites were trying to follow the commands to completely drive the Canaanites out of the promised land they were falling short leaving some to dwell among them. This sets them up for future failure as they will likely be influence and develop relationships with the Canaanites that could be unhealthy or take up worshiping their gods and idols.
If I am totally honest with myself, I am certain I do the same today in my life. I allow myself to be in situations that can have a negative influence on me. I don't think its often, but its there and yet like the Israelites I am probably too complacent in allowing it to continue.
Monday, October 31, 2011
Joshua 24 - t
14 “Now fear the LORD and serve him with all faithfulness. Throw away the gods your ancestors worshiped beyond the Euphrates River and in Egypt, and serve the LORD. 15 But if serving the LORD seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD.”
I love that last part.
Hind sight is always 20/20, right? Well, I can't help but think the Israelites are really weak people. This is at least the 3rd or 4th time they've been warned to not turn their back on God. I can feel what's coming.....I find myself thinking, "why are you so stupid....", but then there's a little voice in my head telling me I'm the same way.
Scott talked about how patient God must be, to put up with and still love the Israelites, even through their many short-comings. I liked his analogy of his relationship with his kids, and how frustrated he gets with them, when they don't act like he wants.
I've heard it said that real love is knowing someone's faults, and loving them anyway. That is definitely true of God. He knows that we are going to mess it up, before we do.
more later
tp
I love that last part.
Hind sight is always 20/20, right? Well, I can't help but think the Israelites are really weak people. This is at least the 3rd or 4th time they've been warned to not turn their back on God. I can feel what's coming.....I find myself thinking, "why are you so stupid....", but then there's a little voice in my head telling me I'm the same way.
Scott talked about how patient God must be, to put up with and still love the Israelites, even through their many short-comings. I liked his analogy of his relationship with his kids, and how frustrated he gets with them, when they don't act like he wants.
I've heard it said that real love is knowing someone's faults, and loving them anyway. That is definitely true of God. He knows that we are going to mess it up, before we do.
more later
tp
Friday, October 28, 2011
Joshua 23 - t
I love what you wrote yesterday, Chris. I think the same thing applies today.
“Be very strong; be careful to obey all that is written in the Book of the Law of Moses, without turning aside to the right or to the left. 7 Do not associate with these nations that remain among you; do not invoke the names of their gods or swear by them. You must not serve them or bow down to them. 8 But you are to hold fast to the LORD your God, as you have until now.
the thought of completely eliminating sin in my life....in terms of influences around me........that's something I don't really think about. I always try to be the "good influence" on the situation, but probably don't realize the damage its causing me.
more to come
“Be very strong; be careful to obey all that is written in the Book of the Law of Moses, without turning aside to the right or to the left. 7 Do not associate with these nations that remain among you; do not invoke the names of their gods or swear by them. You must not serve them or bow down to them. 8 But you are to hold fast to the LORD your God, as you have until now.
the thought of completely eliminating sin in my life....in terms of influences around me........that's something I don't really think about. I always try to be the "good influence" on the situation, but probably don't realize the damage its causing me.
more to come
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Joshua 22 -knut
5 But be very careful to keep the commandment and the law that Moses the servant of the LORD gave you: to love the LORD your God, to walk in obedience to him, to keep his commands, to hold fast to him and to serve him with all your heart and with all your soul.”
As I read today the word careful hit me. This shows me how intentional I need to be to love and obey God. He knows it won't happen on accident and is giving me this instruction be careful... seriously getting into his word daily is one part, holding Him close to me throughout the day is action I need to follow through on more consistently.
Joshua 17-22 - t
I decided to lump a lot of the allotment text together. I'm sure theres some golden nuggets in there, but I'm not scholarly enough to figure them out.
This is an excerpt from chapter 22
10 When they came to Geliloth near the Jordan in the land of Canaan, the Reubenites, the Gadites and the half-tribe of Manasseh built an imposing altar there by the Jordan. 11 And when the Israelites heard that they had built the altar on the border of Canaan at Geliloth near the Jordan on the Israelite side, 12 the whole assembly of Israel gathered at Shiloh to go to war against them.
I'm not sure I'm willing to go to war with my fellow people, because they aren't following God's law. It turned out okay in this instance......but, I think its great to have the accountability in place.
Short today.....hopefully, it will pick up as the reading gets more interesting.
This is an excerpt from chapter 22
10 When they came to Geliloth near the Jordan in the land of Canaan, the Reubenites, the Gadites and the half-tribe of Manasseh built an imposing altar there by the Jordan. 11 And when the Israelites heard that they had built the altar on the border of Canaan at Geliloth near the Jordan on the Israelite side, 12 the whole assembly of Israel gathered at Shiloh to go to war against them.
I'm not sure I'm willing to go to war with my fellow people, because they aren't following God's law. It turned out okay in this instance......but, I think its great to have the accountability in place.
Short today.....hopefully, it will pick up as the reading gets more interesting.
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Joshua 16 - t
This seems too straight forward.
I think there is more here than meets my eye, intially. I'm going to do some research on this chapter............stay tuned.
Do you ever have that feeling that God wants you to investigate something more?
I found out that some people believe that Ephraim and Manasseh are the forefathers to the United States and Britian. That sounds crazy to me. I think you can read anything on the internet. Trouble is.....I found a LOT of references to it. The argument was more over which one represents the US, than if its true.
This is the story about Jacob blessing 2 of his grandchildren (Ephraim and Manasseh) the same as he blessed his own sons. But, he did something a little unexpected. When he reached out his hands to put on their heads,.....he crossed his arms. There's always somethin' isn't there? So, the younger got the blessing from the right hand.....even though Joseph positioned them in the appropriate order. Why is it always the weak leading the strong....the young leading the old.....its always backwards and upside down.
I don't have any great revelations here........just putting some more of the pieces together in my head.
I like how I can edit these posts to continue the thoughts.
Let me know if you either of you have more to add to my rambling
I think there is more here than meets my eye, intially. I'm going to do some research on this chapter............stay tuned.
Do you ever have that feeling that God wants you to investigate something more?
I found out that some people believe that Ephraim and Manasseh are the forefathers to the United States and Britian. That sounds crazy to me. I think you can read anything on the internet. Trouble is.....I found a LOT of references to it. The argument was more over which one represents the US, than if its true.
This is the story about Jacob blessing 2 of his grandchildren (Ephraim and Manasseh) the same as he blessed his own sons. But, he did something a little unexpected. When he reached out his hands to put on their heads,.....he crossed his arms. There's always somethin' isn't there? So, the younger got the blessing from the right hand.....even though Joseph positioned them in the appropriate order. Why is it always the weak leading the strong....the young leading the old.....its always backwards and upside down.
I don't have any great revelations here........just putting some more of the pieces together in my head.
I like how I can edit these posts to continue the thoughts.
Let me know if you either of you have more to add to my rambling
Monday, October 24, 2011
Friday, October 21, 2011
Josh 14 -continued knut
it wouldn't let me post a commet on yours--
After reading 14 myself yesterday I really didn't have any new takes but I like your thoughts. To help us avoid that thought about getting stuff for being faithful we can be reminded of what we discussed regarding the Levites lack of land inheritance.
over slept today, but I will catch up this weekend. have a great one!
After reading 14 myself yesterday I really didn't have any new takes but I like your thoughts. To help us avoid that thought about getting stuff for being faithful we can be reminded of what we discussed regarding the Levites lack of land inheritance.
over slept today, but I will catch up this weekend. have a great one!
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Joshua 14 - t
.....because you have followed the LORD my God wholeheartedly.
that's the challenge.
Caleb first appears as one of the 12 spies sent into the promised land. 10 of the spies came back and were scared by what they saw. They spread word among the people about how big the people were, and how strong the city defenses were. Caleb and Joshua were the only ones that stayed strong in the faith in the Lord. I found this cross referenced in Numbers 14......ish
I have to be a little careful with this one. I can easily go to a place in my brain, where this is telling me that if I follow him wholeheartedly.....then I get stuff.
I don't think that what is being said here. To me, its more along the lines of
Psalm 1
1 Blessed is the one
who does not walk in step with the wicked
or stand in the way that sinners take
or sit in the company of mockers,
2 but whose delight is in the law of the LORD,
and who meditates on his law day and night.
3 That person is like a tree planted by streams of water,
which yields its fruit in season
and whose leaf does not wither—
whatever they do prospers.
4 Not so the wicked!
They are like chaff
that the wind blows away.
5 Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment,
nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous.
6 For the LORD watches over the way of the righteous,
but the way of the wicked leads to destruction.
this is the way that Caleb was "blessed".
that's the challenge.
Caleb first appears as one of the 12 spies sent into the promised land. 10 of the spies came back and were scared by what they saw. They spread word among the people about how big the people were, and how strong the city defenses were. Caleb and Joshua were the only ones that stayed strong in the faith in the Lord. I found this cross referenced in Numbers 14......ish
I have to be a little careful with this one. I can easily go to a place in my brain, where this is telling me that if I follow him wholeheartedly.....then I get stuff.
I don't think that what is being said here. To me, its more along the lines of
Psalm 1
1 Blessed is the one
who does not walk in step with the wicked
or stand in the way that sinners take
or sit in the company of mockers,
2 but whose delight is in the law of the LORD,
and who meditates on his law day and night.
3 That person is like a tree planted by streams of water,
which yields its fruit in season
and whose leaf does not wither—
whatever they do prospers.
4 Not so the wicked!
They are like chaff
that the wind blows away.
5 Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment,
nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous.
6 For the LORD watches over the way of the righteous,
but the way of the wicked leads to destruction.
this is the way that Caleb was "blessed".
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Joshua 13-knut
4 But to the tribe of Levi he gave no inheritance, since the food offerings presented to the LORD, the God of Israel, are their inheritance, as he promised them.
Twice in this chapter it mentions the tribe of Levi does not get an inheritance--at least not one of this world. I researched the tribe a little more I see they were very faithful to God, they were not seeking rewards and inheritance of this world.
For me its another reminder to be careful not to hold on too tight or worry too much about the tangible things I can acquire now but to spend more of my time and energy focused on getting closer to God and serving his purpose. I think I need to be reminded often...
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Joshua 12 - t
I don't have too much today. This one is pretty straight forward.
If you follow God's will, he will accomplish great things through you........
If your ways are wicked, it will lead to destruction................
Have a good one!
If you follow God's will, he will accomplish great things through you........
If your ways are wicked, it will lead to destruction................
Have a good one!
Sunday, October 16, 2011
Joshua 11 - t
As the LORD commanded his servant Moses, so Moses commanded Joshua, and Joshua did it; he left nothing undone of all that the LORD commanded Moses.
I find this intriguing. Dad and I talked about this one a little bit this summer, as we were driving the boat, in the no-wake zone, headed out to the big lake. The more I study and read the old testament...the more I realize how much faith I've put in Moses. The fist 5 books are attributed to his writing. Divinely inspired, of course. And now, reading through Joshua I come across this one. Joshua was following orders that he was given by Moses....who in turn was given them by God. I'm not saying I'm doubting, but its a lot to put on one guy.
We've talked about the willingness of Moses and Joshua to follow God's direction, implicitly, over the last couple of books. I find myself asking the question again. Would I have enough faith, to believe and follow the course, if I was in Joshua's shoes? I guess he did see what could happen if he didn't follow God's plan when Achan took the loot from Jericho.
I did a little reading this weekend on Josh 10, and the "never ending day". I find it funny! Talk about focussing on the wrong thing. The fact that God provided a way for the Israelites to accomplish their goal, is the ticket! Not how did he do it, and did he do something he said he wouldn't do......therefore the Bible isn't a reliable source of information. It makes me laugh when people try to discount the bible based on things like this. It takes more energy to try to refute God, then it does to follow and believe.
I heard something similar to this recently, in talking about when Abraham received his call from God, and something written in the new testament. Did he receive his call in Ur, or after........WHO CARES!!!! You're missing the point.
Anyway. I'm rambling. Sorry. I'm a little depressed at the loses of the Tigers, and Lions.
Stay strong in his word
I find this intriguing. Dad and I talked about this one a little bit this summer, as we were driving the boat, in the no-wake zone, headed out to the big lake. The more I study and read the old testament...the more I realize how much faith I've put in Moses. The fist 5 books are attributed to his writing. Divinely inspired, of course. And now, reading through Joshua I come across this one. Joshua was following orders that he was given by Moses....who in turn was given them by God. I'm not saying I'm doubting, but its a lot to put on one guy.
We've talked about the willingness of Moses and Joshua to follow God's direction, implicitly, over the last couple of books. I find myself asking the question again. Would I have enough faith, to believe and follow the course, if I was in Joshua's shoes? I guess he did see what could happen if he didn't follow God's plan when Achan took the loot from Jericho.
I did a little reading this weekend on Josh 10, and the "never ending day". I find it funny! Talk about focussing on the wrong thing. The fact that God provided a way for the Israelites to accomplish their goal, is the ticket! Not how did he do it, and did he do something he said he wouldn't do......therefore the Bible isn't a reliable source of information. It makes me laugh when people try to discount the bible based on things like this. It takes more energy to try to refute God, then it does to follow and believe.
I heard something similar to this recently, in talking about when Abraham received his call from God, and something written in the new testament. Did he receive his call in Ur, or after........WHO CARES!!!! You're missing the point.
Anyway. I'm rambling. Sorry. I'm a little depressed at the loses of the Tigers, and Lions.
Stay strong in his word
Friday, October 14, 2011
Josh 10 -knut
13 So the sun stood still, and the moon stopped, till the nation avenged itself on its enemies,
as it is written in the Book of Jashar.
The sun stopped in the middle of the sky and delayed going down about a full day.
I was doing a little research on Josh 10 and found it seems this little versus creates quite a ruckus. I saw bible scholars (maybe self proclaimed--I didn't check references) arguing it does not translate into the sun literally stopping in the sky another argued the combination of sun and moonlit night created the effect of a longer day to aid the troops. Aethist point out if true it creates a conflict with promises in Genesis.
I'm not smart enough to figure all that out. Since I believe God is the creator of everything its pretty easy to believe if he chose too he could have performed the miracle of halting the sun and moon in the sky. But maybe this translation to isn't perfect literally--I don't know. I'm an analytical person that likes everyting to work out and make sense mathematically, but I have also learned there are some ways of God I won't fully understand until I'm face to face with him. I have plenty of life experiences proving God is with me that more than overcome my lack of understanding of every word and message contained in the bible. I will continue to pursue more knowledge and understanding but sometimes I just have to have faith.
as it is written in the Book of Jashar.
The sun stopped in the middle of the sky and delayed going down about a full day.
I was doing a little research on Josh 10 and found it seems this little versus creates quite a ruckus. I saw bible scholars (maybe self proclaimed--I didn't check references) arguing it does not translate into the sun literally stopping in the sky another argued the combination of sun and moonlit night created the effect of a longer day to aid the troops. Aethist point out if true it creates a conflict with promises in Genesis.
I'm not smart enough to figure all that out. Since I believe God is the creator of everything its pretty easy to believe if he chose too he could have performed the miracle of halting the sun and moon in the sky. But maybe this translation to isn't perfect literally--I don't know. I'm an analytical person that likes everyting to work out and make sense mathematically, but I have also learned there are some ways of God I won't fully understand until I'm face to face with him. I have plenty of life experiences proving God is with me that more than overcome my lack of understanding of every word and message contained in the bible. I will continue to pursue more knowledge and understanding but sometimes I just have to have faith.
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Joshua 9 - t
27 That day he made the Gibeonites woodcutters and water carriers for the assembly, to provide for the needs of the altar of the LORD at the place the LORD would choose. And that is what they are to this day.
Woodcutters and water carriers! Serving God.
Thats all I have to say about that!
Woodcutters and water carriers! Serving God.
Thats all I have to say about that!
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Josh 7
Sorry, guys. these have been pretty crazy days. i've been reading the chapters and your notes, but haven't been great about keeping up. Some times it's easier for me at night, so here goes.
The thing about the old testament that is kind of interesting is that God the Father is an active participant. Over the years, I have spent considerably more time in the new testament and Jesus gets all the press (righfully so). Because we know he doesn't change, we know he must be the same today as he was in Joshua's day. What was clear in Deuteronomy and has been true in Joshua is God does not like to compete with anything in our lives. Verse 12 "I will not be with you anymore unless you destroy whatever among you is devoted to destruction." I guess the good news is we aren't likely to get stoned (with rocks), but it seems clear, but we are going it alone.
As I think about applying this to my life, it seems fairly straightforward. I do the same thing with Zach and Alex - I'll help them if they follow my directions. If they don't, it's up to them. I make lots of decisions every day and on most of those decisions, I don't consider whether they are consistent with God's teaching. If I'm not making these decisions in "God's way", I need to realize, I'm moving forward without the power of God with me. That seems like a pretty stupid choice, on paper.
The thing about the old testament that is kind of interesting is that God the Father is an active participant. Over the years, I have spent considerably more time in the new testament and Jesus gets all the press (righfully so). Because we know he doesn't change, we know he must be the same today as he was in Joshua's day. What was clear in Deuteronomy and has been true in Joshua is God does not like to compete with anything in our lives. Verse 12 "I will not be with you anymore unless you destroy whatever among you is devoted to destruction." I guess the good news is we aren't likely to get stoned (with rocks), but it seems clear, but we are going it alone.
As I think about applying this to my life, it seems fairly straightforward. I do the same thing with Zach and Alex - I'll help them if they follow my directions. If they don't, it's up to them. I make lots of decisions every day and on most of those decisions, I don't consider whether they are consistent with God's teaching. If I'm not making these decisions in "God's way", I need to realize, I'm moving forward without the power of God with me. That seems like a pretty stupid choice, on paper.
Joshua 7-8
24 Then Joshua, together with all Israel, took Achan son of Zerah, the silver, the robe, the gold bar, his sons and daughters, his cattle, donkeys and sheep, his tent and all that he had, to the Valley of Achor.
If we don't act honorably in the sight of God.....we can bring down everything around us. With him we can accomplish tremendous things. If we are carrying covered sins, buried under our tents, it can mean complete destruction in our lives.
That's about all I want to write on that one. I can feel the weight of that one bearing down.
Thank God for Jesus, and the grace he brings!
If we don't act honorably in the sight of God.....we can bring down everything around us. With him we can accomplish tremendous things. If we are carrying covered sins, buried under our tents, it can mean complete destruction in our lives.
That's about all I want to write on that one. I can feel the weight of that one bearing down.
Thank God for Jesus, and the grace he brings!
Monday, October 10, 2011
Joshua 5-6
“Make flint knives and circumcise the Israelites again.” This is a sentence that should never be uttered. Isn't once enough?...hahaha. I'm just kidding. I understand what it means.
Sometimes God works in really strange ways. Circle the city for six days and return to camp. I wonder what the people within the city walls must have been thinking. No doubt they had heard of the Israelites, and the covenant that God had made with them. And this is what they get?.......all the people circling the city and saying nothing.
I wonder if we look that ridiculous to non-believers today? If God asked me to do something like that, would I be willing to do it? Or, would I think I was crazy to think that's what God really said to do. I don't know. I think it must have took incredible courage for Joshua to deliver God's plan to the people. If this plan was to work, it would be completely up to God. There was no military strategy to fall back on. In fact, the army inside the city could have attacked them at any time.
We talk at church frequently about putting yourself in a situation where you will undoubtedly fail, unless God shows up. I think that's exactly what Joshua did. That is one of the best illustrations of COMPLETE faith in God, that I can think of.
I think its an amazing story
Sometimes God works in really strange ways. Circle the city for six days and return to camp. I wonder what the people within the city walls must have been thinking. No doubt they had heard of the Israelites, and the covenant that God had made with them. And this is what they get?.......all the people circling the city and saying nothing.
I wonder if we look that ridiculous to non-believers today? If God asked me to do something like that, would I be willing to do it? Or, would I think I was crazy to think that's what God really said to do. I don't know. I think it must have took incredible courage for Joshua to deliver God's plan to the people. If this plan was to work, it would be completely up to God. There was no military strategy to fall back on. In fact, the army inside the city could have attacked them at any time.
We talk at church frequently about putting yourself in a situation where you will undoubtedly fail, unless God shows up. I think that's exactly what Joshua did. That is one of the best illustrations of COMPLETE faith in God, that I can think of.
I think its an amazing story
Joshua 3-4
I decided to lump these 2 chapter together, because they make 1 complete story.
I love reading these old testament stories. The magnitude and wonder of what God was doing must have been amazing to the Israelites. To collectively see, without a doubt, the miracles that God was raining down on them.......it makes me a little jealous.
I just got back from a church retreat called MAN UP! We talked a lot about hearing the whispers of God, and leading your family accordingly. Joshua strikes me as a great example of this idea. He was listening for God's words in this life. The only way to hear God's voice is to be in his word daily, and to not be carrying sin in your life. (either by practice or by forgiveness) But, if Joshua didn't pass that word on to the rest of the people, the message wouldn't have gotten very far. The priests needed to be instructed what to do with the ark of the covenant. And the people needed to be ready, and cross appropriately.
This is something we, as leaders of our families, must do. Put ourselves in a situation where we can hear God's urgings, and then react. Pass that word on to our kids.
Max loves football because I love football. Ben loves building things because I love building things.
They will learn to hear God's voice if they see an example of a dad that is living his life in such a way that God is able work through. That sentence is a little messy, but I think you get the idea.
I've read farther in Joshua and might lump more chapters together.
Joshua is an easy read for me. Almost an action/adventure movie type feel.
Have a good one!
I love reading these old testament stories. The magnitude and wonder of what God was doing must have been amazing to the Israelites. To collectively see, without a doubt, the miracles that God was raining down on them.......it makes me a little jealous.
I just got back from a church retreat called MAN UP! We talked a lot about hearing the whispers of God, and leading your family accordingly. Joshua strikes me as a great example of this idea. He was listening for God's words in this life. The only way to hear God's voice is to be in his word daily, and to not be carrying sin in your life. (either by practice or by forgiveness) But, if Joshua didn't pass that word on to the rest of the people, the message wouldn't have gotten very far. The priests needed to be instructed what to do with the ark of the covenant. And the people needed to be ready, and cross appropriately.
This is something we, as leaders of our families, must do. Put ourselves in a situation where we can hear God's urgings, and then react. Pass that word on to our kids.
Max loves football because I love football. Ben loves building things because I love building things.
They will learn to hear God's voice if they see an example of a dad that is living his life in such a way that God is able work through. That sentence is a little messy, but I think you get the idea.
I've read farther in Joshua and might lump more chapters together.
Joshua is an easy read for me. Almost an action/adventure movie type feel.
Have a good one!
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Joshua 2
So, Joshua is preparing to move.......he sends out two of his best and brightest. Give them a fact-finding mission to undertake. And where to they go? To the house of a prostitute......hhhhmmmmmmm!
I read the chapter 3 times looking for the part when they assessed the weakness of the city and its defenses. We've been talking a lot about God's plan, and not our own within the context of Deuteronomy and now Joshua. Here's a theory.
I think the reason the 2 spies were sent to the city was for Rahab. To give her to opportunity to serve God, and to save her family. In her position it would have been much easier to give the spies up to the posse. It definitely would have helped her standing within her society. But, she didn't. God was giving her the opportunity to make the right decision.
So, Joshua's plan was to send in some spies to the city to look around......God's plan was to provide an opportunity for someone that feared and respected him, to serve him. God's plan was to use her as a pivotal character in the taking of the city.
I want to spend a little time thinking this one thru. There's a lot of ways my mind is taking this one.
How your faith effects people around you......Israelites effect on the people at Jericho.
How my plan isn't necessarily God's plan.......
How God can use ANYONE! Even the cast offs of society.
like Scott says......there's lot of meat on this one.
Have a good one!
I read the chapter 3 times looking for the part when they assessed the weakness of the city and its defenses. We've been talking a lot about God's plan, and not our own within the context of Deuteronomy and now Joshua. Here's a theory.
I think the reason the 2 spies were sent to the city was for Rahab. To give her to opportunity to serve God, and to save her family. In her position it would have been much easier to give the spies up to the posse. It definitely would have helped her standing within her society. But, she didn't. God was giving her the opportunity to make the right decision.
So, Joshua's plan was to send in some spies to the city to look around......God's plan was to provide an opportunity for someone that feared and respected him, to serve him. God's plan was to use her as a pivotal character in the taking of the city.
I want to spend a little time thinking this one thru. There's a lot of ways my mind is taking this one.
How your faith effects people around you......Israelites effect on the people at Jericho.
How my plan isn't necessarily God's plan.......
How God can use ANYONE! Even the cast offs of society.
like Scott says......there's lot of meat on this one.
Have a good one!