1 “Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven...
21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also...
34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
This is another great chapter that has helped me change myself over the years in a couple areas.
Years ago I could feel in myself the desire to have someone know when were giving now I actually enjoy trying to provide gifts in secret and in doing this it helps me know that I am not doing it for my own glory. I think I have also grown in where I store up my treasures, not to say that I don't have more than enough stuff down here on earth but my stuff doesn't define me my faith and family do.
Worrying....that's another story. I am far better than I use to be yet for some reason I still struggle with worry. I can worry about work, being a good leader at work, my kids, my relationship with Gina, about having to do a presentation, my Mom, brother, sister, mother-in-law, retirement, the list goes on. But I have so much evidence to go along with what He says here in the bible that I don't need to worry because he takes care of everything. yet i continue to worry. I need to hold vs. 34 close and get it baked into my brain.
knut
Friday, December 20, 2013
Thursday, December 19, 2013
Matthew 5
6 Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,
for they will be filled.
This chapter is loaded, I love it! You could spend days writing about several pieces of this chapter. All of the beatitudes are simple yet say so much. I chose this one because I want to be someone who is hungry to be close to God and to have that bring me the peace that cannot be bought.
Its so easy to get caught up in money and the treadmill having some of it creates. The pressure to continue to earn to sustain the lifestyle built by having certain things-nice house, new cars, nicer motor home, newer trailer, better phones for the kids, faster race car. While I don't feel Gina and I are too materialistic if you look around an argument can be made against that statement. Sometimes the things we have can create pressure and detract from my relationship with God. I want to make sure I keep a hunger for being close to him and in turn this verse tells me I will be more satisfied than I can get any other way.
knut
for they will be filled.
This chapter is loaded, I love it! You could spend days writing about several pieces of this chapter. All of the beatitudes are simple yet say so much. I chose this one because I want to be someone who is hungry to be close to God and to have that bring me the peace that cannot be bought.
Its so easy to get caught up in money and the treadmill having some of it creates. The pressure to continue to earn to sustain the lifestyle built by having certain things-nice house, new cars, nicer motor home, newer trailer, better phones for the kids, faster race car. While I don't feel Gina and I are too materialistic if you look around an argument can be made against that statement. Sometimes the things we have can create pressure and detract from my relationship with God. I want to make sure I keep a hunger for being close to him and in turn this verse tells me I will be more satisfied than I can get any other way.
knut
Wednesday, December 18, 2013
Matthew 4
4 Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’[b]”...7 Jesus answered him, “It is also written: ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.’[d]”...10 Jesus said to him, “Away from me, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.’[e]”
11 Then the devil left him, and angels came and attended him.
So if it is important for Jesus to use God's written word to protect himself from the devil maybe it makes a little sense for us to know it inside out too huh?
knut
Tuesday, December 17, 2013
Matthew 3
8 Produce fruit in keeping with repentance....10 The ax is already at the root of the trees, and every tree that does not produce good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire.
When I think of an ax I think of power maybe even a little bit of anger. Huge trees can be sent to the forest floor by the powerful swing of the man running the ax. Beyond just repenting and asking for his forgiveness and salvation I need to being using my life to help be a productive part of his Kingdom. If not maybe I should prepare for being struck by the ax and burned by the fire.
knut
When I think of an ax I think of power maybe even a little bit of anger. Huge trees can be sent to the forest floor by the powerful swing of the man running the ax. Beyond just repenting and asking for his forgiveness and salvation I need to being using my life to help be a productive part of his Kingdom. If not maybe I should prepare for being struck by the ax and burned by the fire.
knut
Monday, December 16, 2013
Mathew 2
23 and he went and lived in a town called Nazareth. So was fulfilled what was said through the prophets, that he would be called a Nazarene.
In this chapter he calls out at least 3 specific actions taken by Joseph that helped fulfill prophesy, linking the old and the new testament together.
Do you suppose Joseph realized these events and actions he was taking with his family helped to fulfill the prophesy or was he just busy living life and trying to keep his family safe? I assume he was well studied on the Old Testament and he knew who his son was so it seems possible he could make some of these connections.
no real takeaway but it is interesting to make a movie in your mind like you always say as you read chapters like this. He must have some clear dreams and he is not afraid to act on them either. I think I'm a little more hesitant to take action even when I feel the nudge inside me is coming from God. I should learn to act if I feel he is moving me and see what great things he can do through me.
knut
In this chapter he calls out at least 3 specific actions taken by Joseph that helped fulfill prophesy, linking the old and the new testament together.
Do you suppose Joseph realized these events and actions he was taking with his family helped to fulfill the prophesy or was he just busy living life and trying to keep his family safe? I assume he was well studied on the Old Testament and he knew who his son was so it seems possible he could make some of these connections.
no real takeaway but it is interesting to make a movie in your mind like you always say as you read chapters like this. He must have some clear dreams and he is not afraid to act on them either. I think I'm a little more hesitant to take action even when I feel the nudge inside me is coming from God. I should learn to act if I feel he is moving me and see what great things he can do through me.
knut
Friday, December 13, 2013
Mathew 1
20 But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit.
So this must have been some dream. Its written kind of matter of fact, but I imagine it must have been a pretty powerful dream. I assume he was pretty ticked before he went to bed that night, after all he just found out his fiancee was cheating on him. I assume she tried to tell him the same story about how she became pregnant, I sure that went well.
I'm not sure what my take away is other than I admire Joseph's ability to trust that it is truly God speaking to him and how he then immediately takes action to obey his instruction.
I doubt God has ever asked me to do anything as difficult as this yet I'm sure I have failed in acting as faithfully as Joseph did. So my take away is to better at both listening for his instruction and then being willing to obey with my actions.
knut
So this must have been some dream. Its written kind of matter of fact, but I imagine it must have been a pretty powerful dream. I assume he was pretty ticked before he went to bed that night, after all he just found out his fiancee was cheating on him. I assume she tried to tell him the same story about how she became pregnant, I sure that went well.
I'm not sure what my take away is other than I admire Joseph's ability to trust that it is truly God speaking to him and how he then immediately takes action to obey his instruction.
I doubt God has ever asked me to do anything as difficult as this yet I'm sure I have failed in acting as faithfully as Joseph did. So my take away is to better at both listening for his instruction and then being willing to obey with my actions.
knut
Thursday, December 12, 2013
Reading List
Below is our reading history. I propose we go through Mathew during the rest of this Christmas season then back to finish off the Leviticus and Numbers.
| Book: | Completed |
| Written by Moses | |
| 1. Genesis | Oct-13 |
| 2. Exodus | Dec-13 |
| 3. Leviticus | |
| 4. Numbers | |
| 5. Deuteronomy | Oct-11 |
| OT Narratives | |
| 6. Joshua | Oct-11 |
| 7. Judges | Dec-11 |
| 8. Ruth | Dec-11 |
| 9. 1 Samuel | Feb-12 |
| 10. 2 Samuel | Mar-12 |
| 11. 1 Kings | |
| 12. 2 Kings | |
| 13. 1 Chronicles | |
| 14. 2 Chronicles | |
| 15. Ezra | |
| 16. Nehemiah | |
| 17. Esther | |
| Wisdom Literature | |
| 18. Job | |
| 19. Psalms | Ch 1-32, Jan 2013 |
| 20. Proverbs | Mar-13 |
| 21. Ecclesiastes | Apr-13 |
| 22. Song of Songs | Apr-13 |
| Major Prophets | |
| 23. Isaiah | Isaiah 1-35 Jun-13 |
| 24. Jeremiah | |
| 25. Lamentations | |
| 26. Ezekiel | |
| 27. Daniel | |
| Minor Prophets | |
| 28. Hosea | |
| 29. Joel | |
| 30. Amos | |
| 31. Obadiah | |
| 32. Jonah | |
| 33. Micah | |
| 34. Nahum | |
| 35. Habakkuk | |
| 36. Zephaniah | |
| 37. Haggai | |
| 38. Zechariah | |
| 39. Malachi | |
| NT Narratives | |
| 40. Matthew | |
| 41. Mark | |
| 42. Luke | Jan-13 |
| 43. John | |
| 44. Acts | Aug-13 |
| Epistles by Paul | |
| 45. Romans | May-12 |
| 46. 1 Corinthians | May-12 |
| 47. 2 Corinthians | Jul-12 |
| 48. Galatians | Jul-12 |
| 49. Ephesians | Jul-12 |
| 50. Philippians | Aug-12 |
| 51. Colossians | Aug-12 |
| 52. 1 Thessalonians | Sep-12 |
| 53. 2 Thessalonians | Sep-12 |
| 54. 1 Timothy | Sep-12 |
| 55. 2 Timothy | Sep-12 |
| 56. Titus | Sep-12 |
| 57. Philemon | Sep-12 |
| General Epistles | |
| 58. Hebrews | Oct-12 |
| 59. James | Apr-12 |
| 60. 1 Peter | Nov-12 |
| 61. 2 Peter | Nov-12 |
| 62. 1 John | Nov-12 |
| 63. 2 John | Nov-12 |
| 64. 3 John | Nov-12 |
| 65. Jude | Nov-12 |
| Apocalyptic Epistle by John | |
| 66. Revelation |
Wednesday, December 11, 2013
Exodus 38-40
Ch 40 21 Then he brought the ark into the tabernacle and hung the shielding curtain and shielded the ark of the covenant law, as the Lord commanded him.
So throughout these recent chapters God shares in extreme detail the construction of the ark, priestly garments, setting up the tabernacle. I have a feeling there is much significance I do not notice or understand in the details he is sharing with us.
v21 is an example of one detail I would not have even noticed if it were not for a sermon I heard in the past year regarding the tearing of I believe this very curtain that occurs later upon Jesus death and the significance it represents.
its like you have said before its fun to explore his word and see how it is perfectly woven together from book to book chapter to chapter old to new testament. he has a plan. just like all the details he lays out here regarding the tabernacle he has the details of my life laid out as well. pretty overwhelming.
knut
So throughout these recent chapters God shares in extreme detail the construction of the ark, priestly garments, setting up the tabernacle. I have a feeling there is much significance I do not notice or understand in the details he is sharing with us.
v21 is an example of one detail I would not have even noticed if it were not for a sermon I heard in the past year regarding the tearing of I believe this very curtain that occurs later upon Jesus death and the significance it represents.
its like you have said before its fun to explore his word and see how it is perfectly woven together from book to book chapter to chapter old to new testament. he has a plan. just like all the details he lays out here regarding the tabernacle he has the details of my life laid out as well. pretty overwhelming.
knut
Monday, December 9, 2013
Exodus 36
3 They received from Moses all the offerings the Israelites had brought to carry out the work of constructing the sanctuary. And the people continued to bring freewill offerings morning after morning.
looks like everyone was doing their part and doing it with great enthusiasm. if you had skill you were doing the construction if that wasn't your calling everyday you were taking more materials for the cause.
so we each need to find our place on the team then pitch in as best we can, not just because we have to but because we want too. if so it looks like God has given us more than enough resources to help us do his work.
knut
looks like everyone was doing their part and doing it with great enthusiasm. if you had skill you were doing the construction if that wasn't your calling everyday you were taking more materials for the cause.
so we each need to find our place on the team then pitch in as best we can, not just because we have to but because we want too. if so it looks like God has given us more than enough resources to help us do his work.
knut
Friday, December 6, 2013
Exodus 35
5 From what you have, take an offering for the Lord. Everyone who is willing is to bring to the Lord an offering... 21 and everyone who was willing and whose heart moved them came and brought an offering to the Lord... 22 All who were willing...26 And all the women who were willing and had the skill...29 All the Israelite men and women who were willing brought to the Lord freewill offerings for all the work the Lord through Moses had commanded them to do.
I don't know where I'm going with this but as I read this today for a second time it really jumped out at me all of the times he mentioned being willing as well as using the skills he had given them. He has given us all direction and his expectations and he has given us unique skills and resources. He expects us to follow the direction and use those skills and resources but at the same time its up to us, we have to be willing, he is going to make us.
He has given me plenty of resources, skills might be debatable but this fits with your point yesterday. Am I doing as he is asking me with the skills and resources he has provided. Even if I am, am I doing it willingly with the right heart.
pretty tough questions or at least tough to answer out loud completely honestly and feel good.
knut
I don't know where I'm going with this but as I read this today for a second time it really jumped out at me all of the times he mentioned being willing as well as using the skills he had given them. He has given us all direction and his expectations and he has given us unique skills and resources. He expects us to follow the direction and use those skills and resources but at the same time its up to us, we have to be willing, he is going to make us.
He has given me plenty of resources, skills might be debatable but this fits with your point yesterday. Am I doing as he is asking me with the skills and resources he has provided. Even if I am, am I doing it willingly with the right heart.
pretty tough questions or at least tough to answer out loud completely honestly and feel good.
knut
Exodus 35-37
I just kept reading until something stuck......here's my line
10 “All who are skilled among you are to come and make everything the Lord has commanded:
This one struck me, probably because I consider myself to be someone that would have stepped forward to make this stuff. It reminds me again of Paul talking about the church, and how everyone needs to bring their skills to the table to make it work. Those that can build.....need to. Those that can cook......need to. Those that have a nice house......should allow God to use it (that's a little justification from yesterday)
pretty slim pickens, but still good to read thru.
tp
10 “All who are skilled among you are to come and make everything the Lord has commanded:
This one struck me, probably because I consider myself to be someone that would have stepped forward to make this stuff. It reminds me again of Paul talking about the church, and how everyone needs to bring their skills to the table to make it work. Those that can build.....need to. Those that can cook......need to. Those that have a nice house......should allow God to use it (that's a little justification from yesterday)
pretty slim pickens, but still good to read thru.
tp
Thursday, December 5, 2013
Exodus 34
15 “Be careful not to make a treaty with those who live in the land; for when they prostitute themselves to their gods and sacrifice to them, they will invite you and you will eat their sacrifices.
This verse seems pretty relevant today as we live in a society which seems to be actively trying to remove God from existence. It may even go beyond what is stated here of being misguided and worshiping other Gods, today the is active effort to say get God out of here.
I find this hard at times as I don't want to be confrontational but at the same time am I falling into the trap called out here of making treaty with those who deny God? not fighting actively against abortion, gay marriage, removing prayer from school, etc. am I too passive?
separate note, I wanted to write about Moses radiant face but couldn't make any conclusions. there is a lot written about it as I research.
knut
This verse seems pretty relevant today as we live in a society which seems to be actively trying to remove God from existence. It may even go beyond what is stated here of being misguided and worshiping other Gods, today the is active effort to say get God out of here.
I find this hard at times as I don't want to be confrontational but at the same time am I falling into the trap called out here of making treaty with those who deny God? not fighting actively against abortion, gay marriage, removing prayer from school, etc. am I too passive?
separate note, I wanted to write about Moses radiant face but couldn't make any conclusions. there is a lot written about it as I research.
knut
Tuesday, December 3, 2013
Exodus 33
20 But,” he said, “you cannot see my face, for no one may see me and live.”
I understand that God is so much bigger than us, it makes us look like ants. I completely believe he has powers beyond my imagination. But, this is really saying something, isn't it? God is so fantastic and powerful, that if you see his face, you'll die......WOW! Not sure how that applies to our lives, but just to know that God is that HUGE and still pays attention to a little dude in Michigan that can't stop doing stuff wrong....is really comforting.
short one
tp
I understand that God is so much bigger than us, it makes us look like ants. I completely believe he has powers beyond my imagination. But, this is really saying something, isn't it? God is so fantastic and powerful, that if you see his face, you'll die......WOW! Not sure how that applies to our lives, but just to know that God is that HUGE and still pays attention to a little dude in Michigan that can't stop doing stuff wrong....is really comforting.
short one
tp
Monday, December 2, 2013
Exodus 32
22 “Do not be angry, my lord,” Aaron answered. “You know how prone these people are to evil. '
today I read and re-read this chapter and I think there might be a lot of things tucked in here I'm not getting. Did Moses really get God t change his plans, if so was that showing the power of prayer and connection to God?
But finally I selected short verse above as a reminder of how quickly I can fall away from God if I do not seek him and get into his word and speak to him. These people had just been brought out of Egypt and in a few short days after not hearing from Moses they are prepared to worship some golden calf god they created.
so today I pray to be close to you God and not let the things around me replace my time with you.
knut
today I read and re-read this chapter and I think there might be a lot of things tucked in here I'm not getting. Did Moses really get God t change his plans, if so was that showing the power of prayer and connection to God?
But finally I selected short verse above as a reminder of how quickly I can fall away from God if I do not seek him and get into his word and speak to him. These people had just been brought out of Egypt and in a few short days after not hearing from Moses they are prepared to worship some golden calf god they created.
so today I pray to be close to you God and not let the things around me replace my time with you.
knut
Tuesday, November 26, 2013
Exodus 31
6 Moreover, I have appointed Oholiab son of Ahisamak, of the tribe of Dan, to help him. Also I have given ability to all the skilled workers to make everything I have commanded you:
He provided all the instructions of how he wanted things constructed and built but not only that he gave ability to do as he commanded. I notice the ability is a gift. People often say in sports he has a God given ability and I don't think they even realize how biblical that statement is.
I have taken spiritual gift assessments in the past but today's chapter is a reminder for me that for all of the things he wants me to accomplish or my church family together that he has given us the ability so first I need to be aware of the gifts he has given me and then I better not waste them because he gave them to me with a purpose.
I think I need to reflect on this some more, am i using the gifts he gave me for the purpose he has set out for me? not sure I can say yes because I don't recall asking him for direction lately its usually me asking him for help with problems i have identified.
knut
He provided all the instructions of how he wanted things constructed and built but not only that he gave ability to do as he commanded. I notice the ability is a gift. People often say in sports he has a God given ability and I don't think they even realize how biblical that statement is.
I have taken spiritual gift assessments in the past but today's chapter is a reminder for me that for all of the things he wants me to accomplish or my church family together that he has given us the ability so first I need to be aware of the gifts he has given me and then I better not waste them because he gave them to me with a purpose.
I think I need to reflect on this some more, am i using the gifts he gave me for the purpose he has set out for me? not sure I can say yes because I don't recall asking him for direction lately its usually me asking him for help with problems i have identified.
knut
Monday, November 25, 2013
Exodus 27-30
Ch. 30 - 15 The rich are not to give more than a half shekel and the poor are not to give less when you make the offering to the Lord to atone for your lives.
These chapters continue to layout detail instructions for making of robes to altars as well as instructions for making burnt offerings to God. I am certain I am missing some of the message or reasoning He spent this much effort providing these detailed instructions. One thought is that when we want to connect with God we should really focus and prepare ourselves, although that runs counter to just talking to Him in prayer at any moment in my day--so I'm not sure that's the message.
There is also a lot of blood offerings that foreshadow God's future sacrifice to save our sins.
The atonement charge verse I chose struck me because it seems backwards from my normal thoughts. But as my friend Kevin pointed out in their blog society looks at financial classes of people differently but God does not. None of us can pay our way to heaven we all have the same path through Jesus.
knut
These chapters continue to layout detail instructions for making of robes to altars as well as instructions for making burnt offerings to God. I am certain I am missing some of the message or reasoning He spent this much effort providing these detailed instructions. One thought is that when we want to connect with God we should really focus and prepare ourselves, although that runs counter to just talking to Him in prayer at any moment in my day--so I'm not sure that's the message.
There is also a lot of blood offerings that foreshadow God's future sacrifice to save our sins.
The atonement charge verse I chose struck me because it seems backwards from my normal thoughts. But as my friend Kevin pointed out in their blog society looks at financial classes of people differently but God does not. None of us can pay our way to heaven we all have the same path through Jesus.
knut
Friday, November 22, 2013
Exodus 26
I don't have a verse, but here we see even more instruction in specific detail. Some research I found pointed out that God took only 1 chapter to explain how in 6 days he created the universe but 6 chapters and 40 days to explain to Moses how to build the Tabernacle so it must be significant.
Yet as I read it I struggle to find something further to takeaway. Give all the detailed shared we are able to construct accurate images of what it would have looked like 2000 years ago--so that is cool but I dont know if it is life changing.
what am I missing?
knut
Yet as I read it I struggle to find something further to takeaway. Give all the detailed shared we are able to construct accurate images of what it would have looked like 2000 years ago--so that is cool but I dont know if it is life changing.
what am I missing?
knut
Thursday, November 21, 2013
Exodus 25
9 Make this tabernacle and all its furnishings exactly like the pattern I will show you... 40 See that you make them according to the pattern shown you on the mountain.
I read this chapter yesterday and couldn't think of anything to post. I find all of the particular details God provided for the construction of the Ark very odd. What is the importance or significance? I'm sure I'm missing something but one thing I took as I read was the opening an closing to the instructions said and reaffirmed that he was serious about them doing as he has shown them.
So maybe this just a microcosm of his teachings to us throughout the Bible and His serious and firm expectation that we do as he has told us or revealed to us through the Bible.
To make sure they built the Ark exactly as instructed if they are like me they would have need to look back to the instructions repeatedly--measure twice cut one. Well for me today it would be pretty hard to follow his instructions exactly as he has provided throughout the Bible because I have yet to read every word (but progressing). Even after I have read it all once, I need to go back and study it to make sure I am trying to do exactly as he instructed. I will miss and fortunately there is Grace to catch me, but that shouldnt stop me from aspiring to live exactly as instructed.
pheew for having nothing to say I sure typed a lot this morning.
have a great day
Knut
Tuesday, November 19, 2013
Exodus 24
Moses then took the blood, sprinkled it on the people and said, “This is the blood of the covenant that the Lord has made with you in accordance with all these words.”
This one is a little strange. Especially in the "movie" in my mind. Its like a scene out of Carrie. So, I did a little research on it, and here's what I found. The Old Testament sacrifice was a way for the people to atone for their sins. God required that something died to cover the sin. The animal covered that need, until we could get to the point where Jesus was the ultimate sacrifice. So, half of the blood went on the alter. This symbolized the innocent blood to God to cover the sin. The other half was sprinkled or poured on the people as a visual representation of their cleansing....even though it made them dirty.
Its a weird scene.
Having said all of that, it strikes me again how tidy and wholistic the bible is. The underlying tone, direction, and mission of God never changes from the oldest portion of the Old Testament to the end. Its pretty amazing as we've studied it, to realize how perfect it is. One thing points to the next, which points to the next. Things mean the same in the beginning as they mean in the end. All the things that people point to as "problems" with the bible, are completely missing the point.
strange direction today, but......oh well.
This one is a little strange. Especially in the "movie" in my mind. Its like a scene out of Carrie. So, I did a little research on it, and here's what I found. The Old Testament sacrifice was a way for the people to atone for their sins. God required that something died to cover the sin. The animal covered that need, until we could get to the point where Jesus was the ultimate sacrifice. So, half of the blood went on the alter. This symbolized the innocent blood to God to cover the sin. The other half was sprinkled or poured on the people as a visual representation of their cleansing....even though it made them dirty.
Its a weird scene.
Having said all of that, it strikes me again how tidy and wholistic the bible is. The underlying tone, direction, and mission of God never changes from the oldest portion of the Old Testament to the end. Its pretty amazing as we've studied it, to realize how perfect it is. One thing points to the next, which points to the next. Things mean the same in the beginning as they mean in the end. All the things that people point to as "problems" with the bible, are completely missing the point.
strange direction today, but......oh well.
Monday, November 18, 2013
Exodus 23
19 “Bring the best of the firstfruits of your soil to the house of the Lord your God.
“Do not cook a young goat in its mother’s milk.
first fruits in ch. 22, your comments on giving, our pastor yesterday spoke about everything we have is a gift from God and challenged us to think about our lives and are we giving firstfruits back to him (his references were from Deut.) and today another firstfruits reference.
So the chapters arent focused on this but I keep getting this message, maybe he is trying to work on me? I was feeling ok but maybe I need to reflect more on my giving. this will be what I add to my prayer list today, for him to show me how and where I should be giving.
knut
Thursday, November 14, 2013
Exodus 22
29 “Do not hold back offerings from your granaries or your vats.[g]
“You must give me the firstborn of your sons.
Most of this chapter is filled with rules like the previous chapter establishing laws and order for society. This little verse tucked in here reminds me not to hold on too tight to what he has given me.
A similar verse in Proverbs 3:9-10 says give him your first fruits and your granaries and vats will be overflowing. As the Thanksgiving and Christmas approaches I like the reminder to be generous to Him and those around me with the gifts he has given Gina and me.
knut
Wednesday, November 13, 2013
Exodus 21
21 “These are the laws you are to set before them:
I was trying to think why God bothers to put a chapter like this in the Bible. It seems so specific to their times and not so applicable to those of us reading it thousands of years later, yet there must be a purpose.
Maybe the purpose is simply to continue to reinforce the need we humans have for organization and structure to function without living in chaos. Just yesterday Luke got in trouble in school then skipped detention, we got a email from the teacher explaining the problem. When we approached Luke about it he had many excuses and explained how the teacher isn't ever there on time and that she singled him out when others were doing the same thing.
He never gets in trouble and I tend to believe him, but we still had to bring the hammer down and support the rules laid out by the teacher. I think its like some of the laws here in Exodus, they may seem a bit arbitrary but the intention is to create order. If they are on the books you need to follow the rules to keep order, like them or not. His classroom with a bunch a boys would be a mess without a few rules, even if he thinks they are stupid.
i'm blabbing along now. Bottom line I think we need boundaries to live in harmony.
knut out
I was trying to think why God bothers to put a chapter like this in the Bible. It seems so specific to their times and not so applicable to those of us reading it thousands of years later, yet there must be a purpose.
Maybe the purpose is simply to continue to reinforce the need we humans have for organization and structure to function without living in chaos. Just yesterday Luke got in trouble in school then skipped detention, we got a email from the teacher explaining the problem. When we approached Luke about it he had many excuses and explained how the teacher isn't ever there on time and that she singled him out when others were doing the same thing.
He never gets in trouble and I tend to believe him, but we still had to bring the hammer down and support the rules laid out by the teacher. I think its like some of the laws here in Exodus, they may seem a bit arbitrary but the intention is to create order. If they are on the books you need to follow the rules to keep order, like them or not. His classroom with a bunch a boys would be a mess without a few rules, even if he thinks they are stupid.
i'm blabbing along now. Bottom line I think we need boundaries to live in harmony.
knut out
Tuesday, November 12, 2013
Exodus 20
No gods before him
Do not make idols
Do not take his name in vain
Respect the sabbath
Do not murder
Do not commit adultery
Do not slander your neighbor
Do not covet your neighbors stuff
So I got to 8, time to look back and see what I missed. whoops
Honor Mom and Dad
Do not steal
Pretty simple laws he laid out but imagine if we all followed them how well the world would be. As I reflect on the list I can honestly say I think I do well most of the time, but that was not always the case. I use to think about how my race car was my idol, but while I'm still passionate to racing I think I have put it in its place. I learned lust was as bad as adultery so I keep my thoughts focused on my wife, being a man my mind goes there often but I don't think its unhealthy if its focused on her--right? Do not covet your neighbor's stuff, I think I use to do this and can still fall into the trap especially at the races where everyone seems to have a lot more cool stuff than me--so I try not to focus on what they have but as I write this I know this is still a weakness to guard against.
So as I reflect I can also say following these commandments to the best of my ability has made my life better too. If I didn't stay within his boundaries life would be an out of control self indulging rat race--and pretty lonely too because I would not have my wife, my family or friends which are the things that make me tick.
knut
Do not make idols
Do not take his name in vain
Respect the sabbath
Do not murder
Do not commit adultery
Do not slander your neighbor
Do not covet your neighbors stuff
So I got to 8, time to look back and see what I missed. whoops
Honor Mom and Dad
Do not steal
Pretty simple laws he laid out but imagine if we all followed them how well the world would be. As I reflect on the list I can honestly say I think I do well most of the time, but that was not always the case. I use to think about how my race car was my idol, but while I'm still passionate to racing I think I have put it in its place. I learned lust was as bad as adultery so I keep my thoughts focused on my wife, being a man my mind goes there often but I don't think its unhealthy if its focused on her--right? Do not covet your neighbor's stuff, I think I use to do this and can still fall into the trap especially at the races where everyone seems to have a lot more cool stuff than me--so I try not to focus on what they have but as I write this I know this is still a weakness to guard against.
So as I reflect I can also say following these commandments to the best of my ability has made my life better too. If I didn't stay within his boundaries life would be an out of control self indulging rat race--and pretty lonely too because I would not have my wife, my family or friends which are the things that make me tick.
knut
Monday, November 11, 2013
Exodus 19
10 And the Lord said to Moses, “Go to the people and consecrate them today and tomorrow. Have them wash their clothes 11 and be ready by the third day, because on that day the Lord will come down on Mount Sinai in the sight of all the people.
I read in a few other places the importance of preparing to meet God. My friend Tom's blog comments on how we have lost that in society today, we head off to church for our couple hours on Sunday then back to our busy lives. Its kind of true, what do I do to prepare and clear my mind to meet with God--nothing. I get up on Sunday read some ESPN football news a little Facebook then off I go.
In this chapter he gave them instructions to spend time consecrating or dedicating the people to him. Washing their clothes abstaining and abstaining from sex.
So while I believe I can go to God anytime in prayer it also makes some sense that if I really want to connect with him I need to really clear my mind of other noise and take time to truly be focused on him. Prepare to listen to him, prepare to get instruction from him. He makes it clear in this chapter preparation is an important part of a relationship with him.
knut
I read in a few other places the importance of preparing to meet God. My friend Tom's blog comments on how we have lost that in society today, we head off to church for our couple hours on Sunday then back to our busy lives. Its kind of true, what do I do to prepare and clear my mind to meet with God--nothing. I get up on Sunday read some ESPN football news a little Facebook then off I go.
In this chapter he gave them instructions to spend time consecrating or dedicating the people to him. Washing their clothes abstaining and abstaining from sex.
So while I believe I can go to God anytime in prayer it also makes some sense that if I really want to connect with him I need to really clear my mind of other noise and take time to truly be focused on him. Prepare to listen to him, prepare to get instruction from him. He makes it clear in this chapter preparation is an important part of a relationship with him.
knut
Friday, November 8, 2013
Exodus 18
21 But select capable men...who fear God, trustworthy men who hate dishonest gain—and appoint them as officials over thousands...22 Have them serve as judges..., but have them bring every difficult case to you...That will make your load lighter...23 If you do this..., you will be able to stand the strain, and all these people will go home satisfied.”
God wrote the HR handbook way before we every did Attract/Engage/Retain at John Deere. I take to heart the idea of selecting capable people who are trustworthy then turning them loose to do their work and simply being there to help them through the difficult times. And I also take note that if you do these things not only is it good for you but all these people will be satisfied--including yourself if you are the one delegating.
I guess it shouldn't surprise me that what he writes here has application everywhere in my life, not just with my faith--because its all one and he created the structure for us. It also illustrates why people including our kids need and want structure to be satisfied---it is how he made us. sometimes in this world people don't want rules or structure or at least they think they don't, but it doesn;t lead to satisfaction
done rambling
knut
God wrote the HR handbook way before we every did Attract/Engage/Retain at John Deere. I take to heart the idea of selecting capable people who are trustworthy then turning them loose to do their work and simply being there to help them through the difficult times. And I also take note that if you do these things not only is it good for you but all these people will be satisfied--including yourself if you are the one delegating.
I guess it shouldn't surprise me that what he writes here has application everywhere in my life, not just with my faith--because its all one and he created the structure for us. It also illustrates why people including our kids need and want structure to be satisfied---it is how he made us. sometimes in this world people don't want rules or structure or at least they think they don't, but it doesn;t lead to satisfaction
done rambling
knut
Thursday, November 7, 2013
Exodus 17
12 When Moses’ hands grew tired, they took a stone and put it under him and he sat on it. Aaron and Hur held his hands up—one on one side, one on the other—so that his hands remained steady till sunset.
So even the Moses's get's tired and needs some help once in a while. We aren't fighting a physical battle like Moses was helping with but each day we have our own struggles with life. We've been doing our chapter a day for over 2 years now, it is a way of life for me now. But its having you as my partner to put the stone under me and hold up my hand now and then that really helps me keep this as a way of life. thanks for being my partner on this journey.
knut
So even the Moses's get's tired and needs some help once in a while. We aren't fighting a physical battle like Moses was helping with but each day we have our own struggles with life. We've been doing our chapter a day for over 2 years now, it is a way of life for me now. But its having you as my partner to put the stone under me and hold up my hand now and then that really helps me keep this as a way of life. thanks for being my partner on this journey.
knut
Wednesday, November 6, 2013
Exodus 16
28 Then the Lord said to Moses, “How long will you[c] refuse to keep my commands and my instructions?
He sure asks this question in a calm tone. My always say why are you yelling at me??!?! Which I'm not, but I make it clear to them I can yell if they want me too. God just brought them through the Red Sea and now made it snow bread as predicted yet they either were not listening at all or still had zero faith and decided to get a little extra to cover their future needs. He should be screaming at them--or maybe Moses would tell us he was screaming!!!
But I'm just like these jokers, why is it so difficult to just do what He has instructed us to do in the Bible. I don't want to hurt him or be disobedient yet often my actions do just that.
So today I am praying to keep his instructions for me front of mind and not worry about my needs of tomorrow just trust he will provide for me as he always has.
knut
He sure asks this question in a calm tone. My always say why are you yelling at me??!?! Which I'm not, but I make it clear to them I can yell if they want me too. God just brought them through the Red Sea and now made it snow bread as predicted yet they either were not listening at all or still had zero faith and decided to get a little extra to cover their future needs. He should be screaming at them--or maybe Moses would tell us he was screaming!!!
But I'm just like these jokers, why is it so difficult to just do what He has instructed us to do in the Bible. I don't want to hurt him or be disobedient yet often my actions do just that.
So today I am praying to keep his instructions for me front of mind and not worry about my needs of tomorrow just trust he will provide for me as he always has.
knut
Tuesday, November 5, 2013
Exodus 15
27 They came to Elim where there were twelve springs of water and seventy palm trees. They set up camp there by the water.
so they just crossed the Red Sea through desert were disappointed by bitter water then saw a miracle of water turned sweet, instructed to listen and follow God's words, then lead to what must have seemed like paradise.
Not sure where I'm going with this but just noticing the path they took and the refreshing destination God brought them too when they needed it. There are no guarantees life will be easy, but I should seek to listen and be obedient and He will make sure I have water and shade when needed.
knut
so they just crossed the Red Sea through desert were disappointed by bitter water then saw a miracle of water turned sweet, instructed to listen and follow God's words, then lead to what must have seemed like paradise.
Not sure where I'm going with this but just noticing the path they took and the refreshing destination God brought them too when they needed it. There are no guarantees life will be easy, but I should seek to listen and be obedient and He will make sure I have water and shade when needed.
knut
Monday, November 4, 2013
Exodus 14
14 The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.
So I realize I'm taking this one statement from Moses out of its context. But I was thinking about how the Israelites were getting all worked up crazy scared that Moses was leading them into a death trap rather than out of Eygpt and control of the Paraoh. They start talking amongst themselves and then complaining to Moses--see I told you why didnt you just leave us alone. They had no faith no trust. They probably thought they needed to do something themselves to get out of this predicament.
But Moses says let the Lord fight for you--be still. Now I don't have any life or death situations going on but at the same time in my core I'm a worrier. Maybe I should be still as well, speaking with God and trusting him to take care of me. If he can part the Red Sea he can probably deal with my little troubles at the office which is where my primary stress lies.
just a thought.
knut
So I realize I'm taking this one statement from Moses out of its context. But I was thinking about how the Israelites were getting all worked up crazy scared that Moses was leading them into a death trap rather than out of Eygpt and control of the Paraoh. They start talking amongst themselves and then complaining to Moses--see I told you why didnt you just leave us alone. They had no faith no trust. They probably thought they needed to do something themselves to get out of this predicament.
But Moses says let the Lord fight for you--be still. Now I don't have any life or death situations going on but at the same time in my core I'm a worrier. Maybe I should be still as well, speaking with God and trusting him to take care of me. If he can part the Red Sea he can probably deal with my little troubles at the office which is where my primary stress lies.
just a thought.
knut
Friday, November 1, 2013
Exodus 13
I can't imagine what the Israelite people must have been feeling here. On one hand you have them packing up and leaving a place that they probably considered home. That's all they knew. Every little bit of comfort that they had was there, even though it wasn't much. On the other hand they had a visible reminder in front of them that God was with them. The cloud and fire that God sent was amazing. Imagine if we had that today? Even though they had this guide, God was still worried that if something rose up against them, they would turn back. What a strange time to be a follower of God. It seems like God knew how tenuous the situation was, and he is willing to take extra measures to keep his people safe, and moving in the right direction.
Application - The obvious thing to write here, is if I have faith in God, he won't abandon me. He will always do exactly what I need in every situation. Even if the immediate effect of it isn't positive. In the long run, keeping faith will be, by far, the best route to take. I can hear myself grumbling, as one of the people being led out of Egypt........"I'm not sure this is the right thing to do here......"
little light today.
peace
have a great weekend.
t
Application - The obvious thing to write here, is if I have faith in God, he won't abandon me. He will always do exactly what I need in every situation. Even if the immediate effect of it isn't positive. In the long run, keeping faith will be, by far, the best route to take. I can hear myself grumbling, as one of the people being led out of Egypt........"I'm not sure this is the right thing to do here......"
little light today.
peace
have a great weekend.
t
Thursday, October 31, 2013
Exodus 11-12
These 2 chapters go together.....so, I thought I'd over-achieve a little bit since I've been spotty lately.
8 That same night they are to eat the meat roasted over the fire, along with bitter herbs, and bread made without yeast. 9 Do not eat the meat raw or boiled in water, but roast it over a fire—with the head, legs and internal organs. 10 Do not leave any of it till morning; if some is left till morning, you must burn it. 11 This is how you are to eat it: with your cloak tucked into your belt, your sandals on your feet and your staff in your hand. Eat it in haste; it is the Lord’s Passover.
I find myself wondering why God gave Moses all these instructions for eating, and how to dress. It seems completely irrelevant to the situation at hand. But, with God there must be a really good reason. Maybe he wanted to see if the Israelites would have enough faith in him, and in Moses to do all of these ridiculous things? I don't know.
I find myself asking similar questions to all the details of this EPIC story. Why did God do it this way? What was his goal, in handling the slave situation this way? Who was really to benefit from it? If God really wanted his people to be free, he could have softened Pharoahs heart, and they would be gone.....right?
I am really curious lately to understand God......to try to see things thru his eyes. I try really hard at work to be a big picture sort of guy. To see the overarching themes in what we are doing. To not get caught up in the minutia of the detail.
In reference to God, I'm hoping this view will do 2 things for me.
1. Give me a heart that cares about the things that God cares about.
2. To see the lessons in the situations, and not just focus on the stories.
what do ya think?
tp
8 That same night they are to eat the meat roasted over the fire, along with bitter herbs, and bread made without yeast. 9 Do not eat the meat raw or boiled in water, but roast it over a fire—with the head, legs and internal organs. 10 Do not leave any of it till morning; if some is left till morning, you must burn it. 11 This is how you are to eat it: with your cloak tucked into your belt, your sandals on your feet and your staff in your hand. Eat it in haste; it is the Lord’s Passover.
I find myself wondering why God gave Moses all these instructions for eating, and how to dress. It seems completely irrelevant to the situation at hand. But, with God there must be a really good reason. Maybe he wanted to see if the Israelites would have enough faith in him, and in Moses to do all of these ridiculous things? I don't know.
I find myself asking similar questions to all the details of this EPIC story. Why did God do it this way? What was his goal, in handling the slave situation this way? Who was really to benefit from it? If God really wanted his people to be free, he could have softened Pharoahs heart, and they would be gone.....right?
I am really curious lately to understand God......to try to see things thru his eyes. I try really hard at work to be a big picture sort of guy. To see the overarching themes in what we are doing. To not get caught up in the minutia of the detail.
In reference to God, I'm hoping this view will do 2 things for me.
1. Give me a heart that cares about the things that God cares about.
2. To see the lessons in the situations, and not just focus on the stories.
what do ya think?
tp
Tuesday, October 29, 2013
Exodus 8-9--and 10
34 When Pharaoh saw that the rain and hail and thunder had stopped, he sinned again: He and his officials hardened their hearts.
So I read through a couple chapters and glanced a head, we have a series of plagues yet to go through. But what I see here is a repeated behavior by the Pharaoh of praying for help getting it then moving on in his own way that is pretty easy to relate too.
When I read this the Pharaoh's behavior seems ridiculous probably even stretch a little from the truth right? Well how often when I pray for help because I have a pain or a problem does he deliver me from the situation and I move on my merry way forgetting to thank him or even worse just ignoring him completely until the next time I hit an issue that I can't resolve on my own.
my prayer list is helping me be a little better but still...
Knut...Pharoah out
So I read through a couple chapters and glanced a head, we have a series of plagues yet to go through. But what I see here is a repeated behavior by the Pharaoh of praying for help getting it then moving on in his own way that is pretty easy to relate too.
When I read this the Pharaoh's behavior seems ridiculous probably even stretch a little from the truth right? Well how often when I pray for help because I have a pain or a problem does he deliver me from the situation and I move on my merry way forgetting to thank him or even worse just ignoring him completely until the next time I hit an issue that I can't resolve on my own.
my prayer list is helping me be a little better but still...
Knut...Pharoah out
Monday, October 28, 2013
Exodus 6-7
Exodus 7
23 Instead, he turned and went into his palace, and did not take even this to heart.
In chapt 6 we see another list of names. These chapters make me think its demonstrating these are not just stories but capturing history.
Chapter 7 we see the miracles being performed have no impact on Pharaoh in fact its almost the opposite he seems dismissive . How often does God do miracles in the world today or work directly in my life and I am dismissive or oblivious to his works?
I don't think I'm the Pharaoh, but sometimes I may not be much better.
knut
23 Instead, he turned and went into his palace, and did not take even this to heart.
In chapt 6 we see another list of names. These chapters make me think its demonstrating these are not just stories but capturing history.
Chapter 7 we see the miracles being performed have no impact on Pharaoh in fact its almost the opposite he seems dismissive . How often does God do miracles in the world today or work directly in my life and I am dismissive or oblivious to his works?
I don't think I'm the Pharaoh, but sometimes I may not be much better.
knut
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