This is my last post for Hebrews. Next week I will start Colossians....thanks Ron J. for the idea.
Read Hebrews 13:18-25
Title in NIV: Concluding requests and greetings.
Everyone has to examine himself. How is you conscience? Is it clear and free? Is it something you willingly follow when the nudge is felt (by the Holy Spirit)? OR is your conscience cluttered with regret after regret of bad choices. On the outside you look great to others but from within your conscience is either screaming at you or just an ember because you have suppressed the power it holds for so long.
Only you can answer these questions. Are you honest with yourself? Do you even realize that your conscience and your actions don't feel in sinc with each other? You may be following your desires based on experiences and feelings rather than truth and the Word.
I may write this blog and study the Word, but I struggle with all the concepts I just wrote about, too. Some more than others.
Vs 18 says to live honorably. Read Colossians 3:8-10 and 2 Corinthians 5:17-21. They discuss putting on a new self and getting rid of the old self......daily!!! Be aware of the fact that even if you try everyday to do that, you will continue to have consequences for your old self and old actions. Don't get discouraged. Don't give up. Satan will use your past mistakes against you.
Vs 21 says may God equip you with everything good for doing his will. I believe the equipment is listed in Ephesians 6:11. Belt of truth; breastplate of righteousness that protects vital organs; feet of readiness; shield of faith; helmet of salvation; sword of Spirit is the Word and prayer. Does a football player play with no helmet or pads? Does a hockey player? Bull riders? Of course not! They put on their suit for battle.
How are you intentionally suiting up? Are you reading your bible everyday? Everyday is a battle. Are you praying everyday? It is like talking to the coach. Are you following the rule book? Love your enemies. Any my favorite lately, are you following Jesus' example of being a friend of sinners. So many are scared of those who do not look like us or who have a broken past. That saddens me to no end!!! (but that is a story for another day)
Examine, examine, examine yourself to see if your actions line up with the examples Jesus showed.
I have a feeling the ones who read this are trying everyday to be the best they can be based on the teachings of Jesus. So, for you I would say, keep doing what you are doing. Talk to those at church who do not seem to "fit in" (what ever that means), your example will rub off. Sit with them. Encourage them. Jude 23 says snatch others away from the fire and save them. It does not say when you feel totally comfortable with that person and when they have proved themselves and asked for forgiveness from everyone and gotten baptized and bought a car and got a job and wear "Sunday" clothes to church instead of jeans (whatever Sunday clothes are).
Blessings to you and try stretching yourself this week for someone else.
You have a unique story that can heal and change lives. You have been steeped in it since before birth. I want to give you the tools using Biblical principles to understand, accept and share your story.
Showing posts with label Hebrews. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Hebrews. Show all posts
Thursday, March 1, 2012
Thursday, February 23, 2012
It Takes Sacrifice
I have only this week and next of Hebrews. Let me know if you have any suggestions for the next book.
Read Hebrews 13:1-17
Title in NIV: Instructions on hospitality, marriage and sacrificial giving.
The title mentions three topics, but there are so many verses in the 17 verses. I believe they ALL have to do with sacrifice. You have to sacrifice your time and your comfort to be hospitable (lots of people don't want people at their house whether it is too cluttered, a work in progress, or just not 'big' enough... a sacrifice is made when you invite people over). You also have to sacrifice in your marriage. You can't do what you want without considering your spouse. And giving takes sacrifice. Time, money, comfort are all involved in sacrifice.
Other topics: (I like lists)
1. Love each other as brothers.....takes sacrifice.
2. Entertain strangers. They may be angels in disguise.....it takes sacrifice.
3. Remember those in prison and support them....it takes sacrifice.
4. Remember those mistreated and comfort them...it takes sacrifice.
5. Marriage should be honored....it takes sacrifice.
6. No adultery (putting some ONE or some THING above God or your spouse. It could be golf or shopping etc.)...it takes sacrifice.
7. No sexual immorality. Webster says moral is telling the difference between right and wrong. SO, immoral is that you can't tell the difference between right and wrong....or you just don't care and do the wrong action anyway. It also says moral is good and right in character. SO, immoral would be bad or wrong in character. So you have to decide what kind of character you will have in all kinds of areas in your life. Will you be seen as moral because you exhibit truth, strength, self-control, kindness, patience, gentleness, joy etc.? OR will you be immoral because you exhibit lying, stealing, weakness, lust, lack of control, bitterness, anger, depression? What does your character say about you?
8. Keep free from the love of money....it takes sacrifice.
9. Be content with what you have....it takes sacrifice.
10. Remember "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you." and "The Lord is my helper, I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?"
11. Remember your leaders who speak God's Word to you. Watch the way they live their lives and imitate their faith. Obey your leaders. Submit to their authority. They keep watch over you. Believe it or not, every decision they make is for their flock. They have the future in sight and your best interest at heart. Obey them so that their work will be a joy not a burden. Have you burdened you leaders? Grumbling and complaining is of no advantage. If you have a concern, who do you go to??? A leader in private or several several other members to 'get people on your side'? That causes division.
12. Do not be carried away by all kinds of strange teachings. Let your heart be strengthened by grace not by tradition. Can you think of a tradition you hold dear but really does not help you get closer to God?
And above all....Let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise from our lips. We have to confess his name, do good and share with others. God is pleased with such sacrifices.
Read Hebrews 13:1-17
Title in NIV: Instructions on hospitality, marriage and sacrificial giving.
The title mentions three topics, but there are so many verses in the 17 verses. I believe they ALL have to do with sacrifice. You have to sacrifice your time and your comfort to be hospitable (lots of people don't want people at their house whether it is too cluttered, a work in progress, or just not 'big' enough... a sacrifice is made when you invite people over). You also have to sacrifice in your marriage. You can't do what you want without considering your spouse. And giving takes sacrifice. Time, money, comfort are all involved in sacrifice.
Other topics: (I like lists)
1. Love each other as brothers.....takes sacrifice.
2. Entertain strangers. They may be angels in disguise.....it takes sacrifice.
3. Remember those in prison and support them....it takes sacrifice.
4. Remember those mistreated and comfort them...it takes sacrifice.
5. Marriage should be honored....it takes sacrifice.
6. No adultery (putting some ONE or some THING above God or your spouse. It could be golf or shopping etc.)...it takes sacrifice.
7. No sexual immorality. Webster says moral is telling the difference between right and wrong. SO, immoral is that you can't tell the difference between right and wrong....or you just don't care and do the wrong action anyway. It also says moral is good and right in character. SO, immoral would be bad or wrong in character. So you have to decide what kind of character you will have in all kinds of areas in your life. Will you be seen as moral because you exhibit truth, strength, self-control, kindness, patience, gentleness, joy etc.? OR will you be immoral because you exhibit lying, stealing, weakness, lust, lack of control, bitterness, anger, depression? What does your character say about you?
8. Keep free from the love of money....it takes sacrifice.
9. Be content with what you have....it takes sacrifice.
10. Remember "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you." and "The Lord is my helper, I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?"
11. Remember your leaders who speak God's Word to you. Watch the way they live their lives and imitate their faith. Obey your leaders. Submit to their authority. They keep watch over you. Believe it or not, every decision they make is for their flock. They have the future in sight and your best interest at heart. Obey them so that their work will be a joy not a burden. Have you burdened you leaders? Grumbling and complaining is of no advantage. If you have a concern, who do you go to??? A leader in private or several several other members to 'get people on your side'? That causes division.
12. Do not be carried away by all kinds of strange teachings. Let your heart be strengthened by grace not by tradition. Can you think of a tradition you hold dear but really does not help you get closer to God?
And above all....Let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise from our lips. We have to confess his name, do good and share with others. God is pleased with such sacrifices.
Friday, February 17, 2012
Warnings of Disobedience
Read Hebrews 12:14-29
Title in NIV: Warnings of the dangers of disobedience.
Without holiness no one will see the Lord. (Let us live in peace with every man). Be holy because He is holy. All we can do is try...daily.
Bitter roots cause trouble and defile many. I always say, "I don't know what that person is going through in their life so I won't get offended leading to bitterness toward them. They may have just run over their dog or had a fight with their spouse etc."
Do not be sexually immoral. The world has made this a relative term. But God's best way for us is to keep ourselves pure til our wedding night. Then we are pure as a married couple.
Do not be godless like Esau. Later he was rejected. He could not change the mind of Jacob even though he was asking in sobs. (His heart was not right.) Always examine your heart...before the decisions in a situation.
Vs 18-21 describes, I think, what it is like to come to God but not being right with Him or not having the right heart and motives. It is out of reach and looks like it would hurt you. It is darkness, gloom, and stormy. The voice of God is so powerful and holy you shrink in fear. The sight of him makes you realize how sinful you really are and you tremble in fear.
BUT, for those who strive to follow Jesus, coming near to him is like coming to a mountain of heavenly angels. Awesome! It is like coming to a spirit who makes men perfect. It is coming to Jesus, our mediator who gave his blood for us. I don't understand why anyone would choose the darkness, gloom and storm of God over the angels on a mountain. Don't get me wrong, at times I have chosen the darkness, but I was smart enough, maybe broken enough to turn back to God. Those that reject God don't know what they are missing. We need to make the Word look attractive to them and show them...."so that in every way making the teaching about our Lord and Savior attractive." Titus 2:10. An extreme example: I'm 99% sure no one going into an abortion clinic changed their mind because people where there yelling, throwing rocks and calling them 'murderer'. I'm sure no one has ever ran over to the hostile crowd and said, "Y'all are right. I am a murderer. What was I thinking." That is not attractive.
Warning: See to it that you do not refuse him who speaks [about the Savior]. If they did not escape when they refused him who warned them on earth, how much less will we, if we turn away from him who warns us form heaven?
Do not “put stock in” created things (of earth) that can be shaken, but put all your faith in what cannot be shaken, because it will remain. Grow your faith into what cannot be shaken.
Vs 28-29 Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our God is a consuming fire.
Let us ponder what is God's best for us. Discipline may seem harsh, but how do we learn? Do you only teach a child a life lesson when he makes a good choice? NO. You teach a life lesson when he steals something or punches another kid at school or forgets to clean his room or talks back or looses her basketball shoes etc. We get disciplined when we gossip and it spreads so far the person it is about hears it and is hurt...we feel bad and try to tame our tongue, we get disciplined when we speed and get a ticket, we get disciplined when we spend our money out of control, we get disciplined when we judge someone and then find out they are them most giving person who is looking for God that we know etc. God allows all these things to shape us into the people he wants.
Blessings!!
Title in NIV: Warnings of the dangers of disobedience.
Without holiness no one will see the Lord. (Let us live in peace with every man). Be holy because He is holy. All we can do is try...daily.
Bitter roots cause trouble and defile many. I always say, "I don't know what that person is going through in their life so I won't get offended leading to bitterness toward them. They may have just run over their dog or had a fight with their spouse etc."
Do not be sexually immoral. The world has made this a relative term. But God's best way for us is to keep ourselves pure til our wedding night. Then we are pure as a married couple.
Do not be godless like Esau. Later he was rejected. He could not change the mind of Jacob even though he was asking in sobs. (His heart was not right.) Always examine your heart...before the decisions in a situation.
Vs 18-21 describes, I think, what it is like to come to God but not being right with Him or not having the right heart and motives. It is out of reach and looks like it would hurt you. It is darkness, gloom, and stormy. The voice of God is so powerful and holy you shrink in fear. The sight of him makes you realize how sinful you really are and you tremble in fear.
BUT, for those who strive to follow Jesus, coming near to him is like coming to a mountain of heavenly angels. Awesome! It is like coming to a spirit who makes men perfect. It is coming to Jesus, our mediator who gave his blood for us. I don't understand why anyone would choose the darkness, gloom and storm of God over the angels on a mountain. Don't get me wrong, at times I have chosen the darkness, but I was smart enough, maybe broken enough to turn back to God. Those that reject God don't know what they are missing. We need to make the Word look attractive to them and show them...."so that in every way making the teaching about our Lord and Savior attractive." Titus 2:10. An extreme example: I'm 99% sure no one going into an abortion clinic changed their mind because people where there yelling, throwing rocks and calling them 'murderer'. I'm sure no one has ever ran over to the hostile crowd and said, "Y'all are right. I am a murderer. What was I thinking." That is not attractive.
Warning: See to it that you do not refuse him who speaks [about the Savior]. If they did not escape when they refused him who warned them on earth, how much less will we, if we turn away from him who warns us form heaven?
Do not “put stock in” created things (of earth) that can be shaken, but put all your faith in what cannot be shaken, because it will remain. Grow your faith into what cannot be shaken.
Vs 28-29 Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our God is a consuming fire.
Let us ponder what is God's best for us. Discipline may seem harsh, but how do we learn? Do you only teach a child a life lesson when he makes a good choice? NO. You teach a life lesson when he steals something or punches another kid at school or forgets to clean his room or talks back or looses her basketball shoes etc. We get disciplined when we gossip and it spreads so far the person it is about hears it and is hurt...we feel bad and try to tame our tongue, we get disciplined when we speed and get a ticket, we get disciplined when we spend our money out of control, we get disciplined when we judge someone and then find out they are them most giving person who is looking for God that we know etc. God allows all these things to shape us into the people he wants.
Blessings!!
Thursday, February 9, 2012
Act, Think, Learn For the Future
Read Hebrews 12:1-13
Title in NIV: God’s loving discipline.
I counted 16 names in chapter 11 about people of faith. Vs. 12:1 says since we are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses, let us (salad bar) throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. I think the heroes of faith in chapter 11 are cheering us on up in heaven.
Vs. 2 has more salad, “Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith…” Our faith is perfected by situations in our life. We cannot perfect out faith passively. I suggest sticky notes all around: on the mirror, inside the cabinets, in a pocket of your favorite coat. Have the Word all around you until your brain automatically remembers the promises of God and what he wants for your life.
Vs. 2 also says, “For the joy set before him he endured the cross…” This is an interesting concept to me. It explains that Jesus was thinking ahead, in the future. Jesus did things not for instant gratification like our micro wave society. Examples: movies- instant, Xbox360- instant, oatmeal- instant, pudding-instant, money-instant, drive through beer, drive through Rx, drive through laundry, I’ve even heard there is a drive through chapel in Las Vegas where you don’t even have to get out of your car to get married.
But Jesus was hear for the future. He looked ahead. He endured the cross for the joy set before him. We should live with the future in mind. We might be nicer, we might not buy those shoes, we might not go see that movie, we might give a man on the street money or food, we might pay for the person in line behind us at the drive through, we might reach out and invite a troubled soul to church or to our house to eat just because we have the future in mind.
Live for the future, not the past or the present.
No one likes to be disciplined, but we don’t mind dishing out the discipline (or gossiping about what we would do if we were that mom or wife). When I discipline my children, it is supposed to be in their best interest. Safety from cars, build character, rid of bad character…can you think of any more?
God does the same thing. He treats us as sons. He has our best in mind. Back then the illegitimate son (those born of a maidservant) were not treated as well as the real son. They were not educated or taught the way the son was. We are God’s son since we have accepted Jesus Christ. God then disciplines us to we can share in his holiness. That is the task of life: to make us holy like he is holy. That task looks toward the future again…making us holy. It produces a harvest of righteousness and peace those who have accepted the training.
So accept the training and make level the path for your feet. How? Study! Good stuff in, good stuff out. Pray and have a relationship with God through Jesus Christ. Act on the Holy Spirit’s nudge in your life. Find your talents and use them to build up the church. If you don’t know them, ask a friend. We are often blind to our own talents and faults.
Discipline produces righteousness, peace, healing and holiness.
Next week I discuss the danger of disobedience.
Title in NIV: God’s loving discipline.
I counted 16 names in chapter 11 about people of faith. Vs. 12:1 says since we are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses, let us (salad bar) throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. I think the heroes of faith in chapter 11 are cheering us on up in heaven.
Vs. 2 has more salad, “Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith…” Our faith is perfected by situations in our life. We cannot perfect out faith passively. I suggest sticky notes all around: on the mirror, inside the cabinets, in a pocket of your favorite coat. Have the Word all around you until your brain automatically remembers the promises of God and what he wants for your life.
Vs. 2 also says, “For the joy set before him he endured the cross…” This is an interesting concept to me. It explains that Jesus was thinking ahead, in the future. Jesus did things not for instant gratification like our micro wave society. Examples: movies- instant, Xbox360- instant, oatmeal- instant, pudding-instant, money-instant, drive through beer, drive through Rx, drive through laundry, I’ve even heard there is a drive through chapel in Las Vegas where you don’t even have to get out of your car to get married.
But Jesus was hear for the future. He looked ahead. He endured the cross for the joy set before him. We should live with the future in mind. We might be nicer, we might not buy those shoes, we might not go see that movie, we might give a man on the street money or food, we might pay for the person in line behind us at the drive through, we might reach out and invite a troubled soul to church or to our house to eat just because we have the future in mind.
Live for the future, not the past or the present.
No one likes to be disciplined, but we don’t mind dishing out the discipline (or gossiping about what we would do if we were that mom or wife). When I discipline my children, it is supposed to be in their best interest. Safety from cars, build character, rid of bad character…can you think of any more?
God does the same thing. He treats us as sons. He has our best in mind. Back then the illegitimate son (those born of a maidservant) were not treated as well as the real son. They were not educated or taught the way the son was. We are God’s son since we have accepted Jesus Christ. God then disciplines us to we can share in his holiness. That is the task of life: to make us holy like he is holy. That task looks toward the future again…making us holy. It produces a harvest of righteousness and peace those who have accepted the training.
So accept the training and make level the path for your feet. How? Study! Good stuff in, good stuff out. Pray and have a relationship with God through Jesus Christ. Act on the Holy Spirit’s nudge in your life. Find your talents and use them to build up the church. If you don’t know them, ask a friend. We are often blind to our own talents and faults.
Discipline produces righteousness, peace, healing and holiness.
Next week I discuss the danger of disobedience.
Thursday, January 26, 2012
Let Us Find More of God In Our Lives This Year
This marks the second anniversary of my blog. I don’t know if I’m any smarter or wiser, but I give glory and thanks to God for sustaining me. This is my 99th post. I have studied Romans, Titus, Hebrews, James, and 1&2 Peter. There will always be a topic. There will always be a need (even if I don’t see it). I thank God for using me (even if I don’t understand how).
Read Hebrews 10:19-39
Title in NIV: Persevere in faithful obedience.
This is one of my favorites!! It is like a big salad bar filled with good looking, healthy choices. Indulging in this salad bar keeps our bodies, our mind and our relationships balanced.
Let me list the ‘let us’ for you to feast upon. I like lists.
Vs. 22 Let us draw near to God with sincere hearts in full assurance of faith …of having our guilty conscience cleansed.
Vs. 23 Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.
Vs 24 Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.
Vs 25 Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing…
Vs 25 Let us encourage one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching. (Interesting how the word Day is capitalized!)
All the ‘Let Us’ verses are decisions we make everyday to strive for. But if we (vs. 26) “deliberately keep on sinning after we have received the knowledge of the truth, no sacrifice for sin is left, only a fearful expectation of judgment and of raging fire that will consume the enemies of God.”
Being deliberate in our sinning is like vs. 29
1) trampling the Son of God under foot
2) treating Jesus’ blood as unholy and
3) insulting the Son of grace.
Let us be people of intention. Let us be intentional in every action, word and thought. Let them be intended for God’s glory.
Vs. 32-34 Let us look at some of the things the early Christians did not care about because they knew they had better and lasting possessions:
1) confiscation of their property
2) prison
3) suffering
4) publically exposed to insults
5) persecutions (like being sawed in half. Ouch! But worth it for the Lord)
Even in this, they held tight to their faith and hope in the promises of God.
Whatever you are going through, hold to the true faith and confidence and you will be richly blessed and rewarded when He returns. Don’t shrink back and be destroyed.
Vs 39 But we are not of those who shrink back and are destroyed, but of those who believe and are saved.
Examine Yourself: Are you bold for the Lord because He makes you bold or do you cower because you give into your fear? Fear is from the evil one. Who do you strive to follow? Are you intentional in your actions or do you just follow your feelings and desires? Feelings are what Satan uses to trip us up and trick us. David felt lust and gave in. Jesus felt hungry but did not give in. Job felt God had left him, but he did not sin. Moses felt anger and gave in. Cane gave in to jealousy. Let us not give into feelings, but let us act in Truth!
Read Hebrews 10:19-39
Title in NIV: Persevere in faithful obedience.
This is one of my favorites!! It is like a big salad bar filled with good looking, healthy choices. Indulging in this salad bar keeps our bodies, our mind and our relationships balanced.
Let me list the ‘let us’ for you to feast upon. I like lists.
Vs. 22 Let us draw near to God with sincere hearts in full assurance of faith …of having our guilty conscience cleansed.
Vs. 23 Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.
Vs 24 Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.
Vs 25 Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing…
Vs 25 Let us encourage one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching. (Interesting how the word Day is capitalized!)
All the ‘Let Us’ verses are decisions we make everyday to strive for. But if we (vs. 26) “deliberately keep on sinning after we have received the knowledge of the truth, no sacrifice for sin is left, only a fearful expectation of judgment and of raging fire that will consume the enemies of God.”
Being deliberate in our sinning is like vs. 29
1) trampling the Son of God under foot
2) treating Jesus’ blood as unholy and
3) insulting the Son of grace.
Let us be people of intention. Let us be intentional in every action, word and thought. Let them be intended for God’s glory.
Vs. 32-34 Let us look at some of the things the early Christians did not care about because they knew they had better and lasting possessions:
1) confiscation of their property
2) prison
3) suffering
4) publically exposed to insults
5) persecutions (like being sawed in half. Ouch! But worth it for the Lord)
Even in this, they held tight to their faith and hope in the promises of God.
Whatever you are going through, hold to the true faith and confidence and you will be richly blessed and rewarded when He returns. Don’t shrink back and be destroyed.
Vs 39 But we are not of those who shrink back and are destroyed, but of those who believe and are saved.
Examine Yourself: Are you bold for the Lord because He makes you bold or do you cower because you give into your fear? Fear is from the evil one. Who do you strive to follow? Are you intentional in your actions or do you just follow your feelings and desires? Feelings are what Satan uses to trip us up and trick us. David felt lust and gave in. Jesus felt hungry but did not give in. Job felt God had left him, but he did not sin. Moses felt anger and gave in. Cane gave in to jealousy. Let us not give into feelings, but let us act in Truth!
Thursday, January 19, 2012
Sacrifice Part 3 of 3
Read Hebrews 10:1-18
Title in NIV: Christ’s perfect sacrifice, once for all.
Sacrifice Part 3 of 3
Reading this passage I feel like a little kid again and my mom telling me for the one hundredth time to remove my shoes from the living room. Or, it reminds me that I’ve told my kids to move their shoes, backpacks, wrappers one hundred times. I finally got it! My kids will finally get it sooner than later I pray. HUMMMMM! Do you think the writer of Hebrews knew that we weak minded people needed constant reminding, too. He must have. I feel like I have been writing the same blog over and over. So…here we go again!
I love the comparison of the law to a shadow. A shadow is only a copy of the real thing. A shadow is gray and fuzzy and the real thing is of brilliant color. A shadow is of no use but the real thing is alive. I can’t hold a shadow but I can hold the real thing. I would much rather have the real thing than a shadow. The real thing is living in us. We must hold on to our faith, press toward the goal so we can be with the Real Thing, Jesus, in Heaven.
So, when the writer explains that the law is only a shadow, he is saying the law (shadow) could never make perfect the ones who draw near to God. The law (shadow) cannot cleanse once and for all. The law (shadow) cannot make a conscience free of guilt. The law (shadow) cannot take away sin.
The law (shadow) was set aside to make room for the better Real Thing. Christ made the sacrifice of his blood. He is the Real Thing. The Real Thing makes us holy. The Real Thing gave himself once for all. The Real Thing takes away our sins. The Real Thing sits at the right hand of God.
I want the Real Thing and anyone who settles for a shadow is being deceived. Have you ever gotten a diet drink when you thought it was a regular? You know fast it is a fake! Don’t settle for the fake! Keep Jesus, the Real Thing!
Heb 10:16-17 " ...I will put my laws in their hearts, and I will write them on their minds…Their sins and lawless act I will remember no more." What does God do? He searches the heart and examines our motives for our actions.
Title in NIV: Christ’s perfect sacrifice, once for all.
Sacrifice Part 3 of 3
Reading this passage I feel like a little kid again and my mom telling me for the one hundredth time to remove my shoes from the living room. Or, it reminds me that I’ve told my kids to move their shoes, backpacks, wrappers one hundred times. I finally got it! My kids will finally get it sooner than later I pray. HUMMMMM! Do you think the writer of Hebrews knew that we weak minded people needed constant reminding, too. He must have. I feel like I have been writing the same blog over and over. So…here we go again!
I love the comparison of the law to a shadow. A shadow is only a copy of the real thing. A shadow is gray and fuzzy and the real thing is of brilliant color. A shadow is of no use but the real thing is alive. I can’t hold a shadow but I can hold the real thing. I would much rather have the real thing than a shadow. The real thing is living in us. We must hold on to our faith, press toward the goal so we can be with the Real Thing, Jesus, in Heaven.
So, when the writer explains that the law is only a shadow, he is saying the law (shadow) could never make perfect the ones who draw near to God. The law (shadow) cannot cleanse once and for all. The law (shadow) cannot make a conscience free of guilt. The law (shadow) cannot take away sin.
The law (shadow) was set aside to make room for the better Real Thing. Christ made the sacrifice of his blood. He is the Real Thing. The Real Thing makes us holy. The Real Thing gave himself once for all. The Real Thing takes away our sins. The Real Thing sits at the right hand of God.
I want the Real Thing and anyone who settles for a shadow is being deceived. Have you ever gotten a diet drink when you thought it was a regular? You know fast it is a fake! Don’t settle for the fake! Keep Jesus, the Real Thing!
Heb 10:16-17 " ...I will put my laws in their hearts, and I will write them on their minds…Their sins and lawless act I will remember no more." What does God do? He searches the heart and examines our motives for our actions.
Thursday, January 12, 2012
Sacrifice Part 2 of 3
Read Hebrews 9:11-28
Title in NIV: The new covenant and the sacrifice of Christ's blood.
Last week I discussed the earthly tabernacle . This week the topic is the heavenly tabernacle. Remember the tabernacle in Moses' day was only a shadow of the heavenly tabernacle. Jesus Christ was with God in the beginning (John 1:1-2) so Christ has access to the heavenly tabernacle. When it was time for him to fulfill scripture, He went through the heavenly tabernacle. He came with his own blood to the Most Holy Place once for all. His sacrifice is far more superior than the blood of goats and bulls. Jesus' sacrifice cleanses our conscience from our sinful acts so we can serve the Lord.
I have two thoughts on that last sentence. If Jesus' sacrifice cleanses our conscience why do we hold on to feelings of shame and guilt. When we get our heart right with God (repent and ask for forgiveness), we should believe the Word and have a clean conscience. Our guilt and shame should vanish. We should strive to do what Philippians 3:14 says, "forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead... press toward the goal." This says to not live in the past and let it go. Forget it, learn from it and strive to do better.
In a lesson my preacher asked the audience to describe their relationship with God in one word. People said, "Savior", "Redeemer" etc. Those are true and good words, but my word was different. My word was STRIVE. To strive involves movement. To strive involves pressing forward. To strive involves learning, wrestling, struggling with concepts and allowing God to teach you what He wants. I strive to always move forward and step in His steps.
Vs. 15.Christ became our mediator when he gave himself for us. We do not have to rely on an earthly priest to send our messages to God. We can talk to God directly through Jesus Christ. He died for us to set us free from the the sins committed under the first covenant. Those who accept Jesus Christ's gift receive the promise of eternal life. We don't earn eternal salvation, we accept it like a Christmas gift. But, we have a responsibility when we accept it: "Go and sin no more" (John 8:11, John 5:14). We have to allow God to change our hearts and we will if we are sincere. We can fake it, but God sees our heart. Examine your motives for your actions.
I like the parallel to a will in vs. 16. Heirs do not get their inheritance until a person dies. Well, Jesus already died so we have the promise of eternal life. Do we live like we have eternal life in our future? We should try. Even in Mosos' day, an animal had to die so the will could be carried out. His will for the people was forgiveness (vs. 22).
Vs. 27-28 "Just as man is destined to die once, and after that to face judgment, so Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many people; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him."
Are you waiting for Him? Do you yearn for his coming? Do you consider yourself part of the Kingdom that He is coming back for? I believe all who proclaim the name of Christ and strive to know Him every day are part of the Kingdom. He wants us to bring everyone who will accept Him to the kingdom, too (every one). Be a kingdom servant and share the good news so the kingdom overflows!! As Jesus sacrificed for us, we should willingly sacrifice for him. What can you sacrifice for Him? Not to gain brownie points, but because your heart overflows with concern for the lost, struggling and wounded and you despratly want them to know the Redeemer, the Healer and the Savior.
Title in NIV: The new covenant and the sacrifice of Christ's blood.
Last week I discussed the earthly tabernacle . This week the topic is the heavenly tabernacle. Remember the tabernacle in Moses' day was only a shadow of the heavenly tabernacle. Jesus Christ was with God in the beginning (John 1:1-2) so Christ has access to the heavenly tabernacle. When it was time for him to fulfill scripture, He went through the heavenly tabernacle. He came with his own blood to the Most Holy Place once for all. His sacrifice is far more superior than the blood of goats and bulls. Jesus' sacrifice cleanses our conscience from our sinful acts so we can serve the Lord.
I have two thoughts on that last sentence. If Jesus' sacrifice cleanses our conscience why do we hold on to feelings of shame and guilt. When we get our heart right with God (repent and ask for forgiveness), we should believe the Word and have a clean conscience. Our guilt and shame should vanish. We should strive to do what Philippians 3:14 says, "forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead... press toward the goal." This says to not live in the past and let it go. Forget it, learn from it and strive to do better.
In a lesson my preacher asked the audience to describe their relationship with God in one word. People said, "Savior", "Redeemer" etc. Those are true and good words, but my word was different. My word was STRIVE. To strive involves movement. To strive involves pressing forward. To strive involves learning, wrestling, struggling with concepts and allowing God to teach you what He wants. I strive to always move forward and step in His steps.
Vs. 15.Christ became our mediator when he gave himself for us. We do not have to rely on an earthly priest to send our messages to God. We can talk to God directly through Jesus Christ. He died for us to set us free from the the sins committed under the first covenant. Those who accept Jesus Christ's gift receive the promise of eternal life. We don't earn eternal salvation, we accept it like a Christmas gift. But, we have a responsibility when we accept it: "Go and sin no more" (John 8:11, John 5:14). We have to allow God to change our hearts and we will if we are sincere. We can fake it, but God sees our heart. Examine your motives for your actions.
I like the parallel to a will in vs. 16. Heirs do not get their inheritance until a person dies. Well, Jesus already died so we have the promise of eternal life. Do we live like we have eternal life in our future? We should try. Even in Mosos' day, an animal had to die so the will could be carried out. His will for the people was forgiveness (vs. 22).
Vs. 27-28 "Just as man is destined to die once, and after that to face judgment, so Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many people; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him."
Are you waiting for Him? Do you yearn for his coming? Do you consider yourself part of the Kingdom that He is coming back for? I believe all who proclaim the name of Christ and strive to know Him every day are part of the Kingdom. He wants us to bring everyone who will accept Him to the kingdom, too (every one). Be a kingdom servant and share the good news so the kingdom overflows!! As Jesus sacrificed for us, we should willingly sacrifice for him. What can you sacrifice for Him? Not to gain brownie points, but because your heart overflows with concern for the lost, struggling and wounded and you despratly want them to know the Redeemer, the Healer and the Savior.
Thursday, January 5, 2012
Sacrifice in the Earthly Tabernacle (Part 1 of 3)
Time to get back to my blog.
Read Hebrews 9:1-10
Title in NIV: Sacrifice in the earthly tabernacle.
Topic: Sacrifice, Part 1
The next three weeks focus on the topic of ‘sacrifice’.
The first covenant had regulations for worship and for an earthly sanctuary also known as the temple. These items were only shadows of the good things that are coming according to Heb 10:1.
These two are in the Holy Place:
1) lamp stands-lamps use oil and oil represents the anointing of the Holy Spirit; lamps give light and Jesus said he was the light of the world in John 8:12.
2) table and consecrated bread- Jesus said he was the bread of life in John 6:35. The bread was made with flour, oil, frankincense and salt. Flour represents the Word of God. Oil is the anointing Holy Spirit. Frankincense is the perfume added for a sweet smell that represented prayers and intercessions going up to God in the smoke. Salt is a preservative to keep things healthy and well. The new covenant: Jesus came to purify us and heal our broken spirits. Jesus was the Word anointed by the Holy Spirit. He offered up prayers and petitions on our behalf.
These were in the Most Holy Place:
1) golden alter of incense;
2)gold-covered ark of covenant. In the ark was the a) gold jar of manna, b) Aaron’s staff that had budded, the c) second stone tablets of the covenant (remember Moses got mad and smashed the first ones; unless these are the ones God put back together; what a good question when I get to heaven).
3) Above the ark were cherubim of the Glory, overshadowing the atonement cover where God hovered.
The priest entered the outer room regularly to carry out their ministry. But only the high priest entered the inner room and only once a year and never without blood. He offered the blood for himself and for the sins people committed in ignorance. The inner room where God was could not be disclosed until the first tabernacle (Jesus) died for our sins. In other words, we could not come near God until Jesus did his work and died for our sins. Remember the curtain being ripped from top to bottom? After Jesus went behind the curtain to the Most Holy place and presented his blood once for all, we had access to God anytime, any where. We only need to call to him. The old covenant was just a matter of food and drink and external regulations until the time of the new order—after Jesus gave himself for us.
I enjoy the symbolism and how each detail in the tabernacle and each sacrifice pointed to Christ. Next week the sacrifice of Christ’s blood is discussed in detail.
Read Hebrews 9:1-10
Title in NIV: Sacrifice in the earthly tabernacle.
Topic: Sacrifice, Part 1
The next three weeks focus on the topic of ‘sacrifice’.
The first covenant had regulations for worship and for an earthly sanctuary also known as the temple. These items were only shadows of the good things that are coming according to Heb 10:1.
These two are in the Holy Place:
1) lamp stands-lamps use oil and oil represents the anointing of the Holy Spirit; lamps give light and Jesus said he was the light of the world in John 8:12.
2) table and consecrated bread- Jesus said he was the bread of life in John 6:35. The bread was made with flour, oil, frankincense and salt. Flour represents the Word of God. Oil is the anointing Holy Spirit. Frankincense is the perfume added for a sweet smell that represented prayers and intercessions going up to God in the smoke. Salt is a preservative to keep things healthy and well. The new covenant: Jesus came to purify us and heal our broken spirits. Jesus was the Word anointed by the Holy Spirit. He offered up prayers and petitions on our behalf.
These were in the Most Holy Place:
1) golden alter of incense;
2)gold-covered ark of covenant. In the ark was the a) gold jar of manna, b) Aaron’s staff that had budded, the c) second stone tablets of the covenant (remember Moses got mad and smashed the first ones; unless these are the ones God put back together; what a good question when I get to heaven).
3) Above the ark were cherubim of the Glory, overshadowing the atonement cover where God hovered.
The priest entered the outer room regularly to carry out their ministry. But only the high priest entered the inner room and only once a year and never without blood. He offered the blood for himself and for the sins people committed in ignorance. The inner room where God was could not be disclosed until the first tabernacle (Jesus) died for our sins. In other words, we could not come near God until Jesus did his work and died for our sins. Remember the curtain being ripped from top to bottom? After Jesus went behind the curtain to the Most Holy place and presented his blood once for all, we had access to God anytime, any where. We only need to call to him. The old covenant was just a matter of food and drink and external regulations until the time of the new order—after Jesus gave himself for us.
I enjoy the symbolism and how each detail in the tabernacle and each sacrifice pointed to Christ. Next week the sacrifice of Christ’s blood is discussed in detail.
Thursday, December 8, 2011
What is Obsolete in Your Life?
I just added some Christmas pictures and sports pictures to my blog. I'm really trying to get better at that!! Goto
in-stepwithspirit.blogspot.com for pics and personal tid bits. Love to all!!
Read Hebrews 8:1-13
Title in NIV: Jesus’ priesthood presents a new and better covenant.
I made an analogy for chapter 8. I went to an antique store recently. I was looking for an old heavy iron with a handle to hold up Christmas stockings on my fireplace mantle. What I found amazed me. I found an iron heated by kerosene.
It had a round bulb-like chamber on the back to hold the kerosene. The owner of the store told me that when it was lit, you could see flames coming out of the slits on the base. I’ve never seen anything like that. He jokingly said, “Wonder how many fires started with this thing.”
Why don’t they make those anymore? They have become obsolete. Better irons have been made—electric ones. Ones that turn off automatically. Ones that cool down quickly.
Because it was so old, it was hard to find. They have disappeared from use and from stores.
This explains the old covenant with the forefathers, too. Hebrews 8:13 says the old covenant was obsolete and a better covenant was made. The old disappeared and the new took its place.
We see this with technology, too. The new is old in a couple of months…over and over and over.
The problem: people want to hold on to the old for so many reasons. It is comfortable, it is not challenging, however it is impossible to maintain!
I challenge you to look behind your actions and examine your motives. What is the motive for not giving a beggar on the street a hamburger or a couple of bucks, or for not sharing your struggles to help someone else. What are your motives for gossiping or complaining or comparing or shunning a person with tattoos? What motivates people to hang onto the old covenant of laws and not move forward to the new covenant of faith. (Not transitioning to the new covenant of love was discussed last week) (Thinking about it…what I explained just now reminds me of the two men who passed the Samaritan. It reminds me of the Pharisees who looked good on the outside but had bad hearts.) Be motivated by love, not by fear or comfort or status.
Let’s compare the old and the new again. Old (vs 9): God took people by the hand and led them; New: We chose to be led by Him or turn from Him.
Old (vs 9): People did not remain faithful (could not follow the 600+ laws perfectly). New: We need only to remain faithful to Jesus Christ and we look perfect because of his blood. (we are not perfect by we seem that way because we are His)
Old (vs 9): God turned away from the people;
New (vs 12) God will forgive their wickedness and remember sins no more
I really like the new! It might be a little scary to reach out to others when you don’t know if you will get rejected or ridiculed or not know what to say. But that is what faith is. The new covers all our sins and I really like and need that because following Jesus example…lets face it, is hard to do all the time.
in-stepwithspirit.blogspot.com for pics and personal tid bits. Love to all!!
Read Hebrews 8:1-13
Title in NIV: Jesus’ priesthood presents a new and better covenant.
I made an analogy for chapter 8. I went to an antique store recently. I was looking for an old heavy iron with a handle to hold up Christmas stockings on my fireplace mantle. What I found amazed me. I found an iron heated by kerosene.
It had a round bulb-like chamber on the back to hold the kerosene. The owner of the store told me that when it was lit, you could see flames coming out of the slits on the base. I’ve never seen anything like that. He jokingly said, “Wonder how many fires started with this thing.”
Why don’t they make those anymore? They have become obsolete. Better irons have been made—electric ones. Ones that turn off automatically. Ones that cool down quickly.
Because it was so old, it was hard to find. They have disappeared from use and from stores.
This explains the old covenant with the forefathers, too. Hebrews 8:13 says the old covenant was obsolete and a better covenant was made. The old disappeared and the new took its place.
We see this with technology, too. The new is old in a couple of months…over and over and over.
The problem: people want to hold on to the old for so many reasons. It is comfortable, it is not challenging, however it is impossible to maintain!
I challenge you to look behind your actions and examine your motives. What is the motive for not giving a beggar on the street a hamburger or a couple of bucks, or for not sharing your struggles to help someone else. What are your motives for gossiping or complaining or comparing or shunning a person with tattoos? What motivates people to hang onto the old covenant of laws and not move forward to the new covenant of faith. (Not transitioning to the new covenant of love was discussed last week) (Thinking about it…what I explained just now reminds me of the two men who passed the Samaritan. It reminds me of the Pharisees who looked good on the outside but had bad hearts.) Be motivated by love, not by fear or comfort or status.
Let’s compare the old and the new again. Old (vs 9): God took people by the hand and led them; New: We chose to be led by Him or turn from Him.
Old (vs 9): People did not remain faithful (could not follow the 600+ laws perfectly). New: We need only to remain faithful to Jesus Christ and we look perfect because of his blood. (we are not perfect by we seem that way because we are His)
Old (vs 9): God turned away from the people;
New (vs 12) God will forgive their wickedness and remember sins no more
I really like the new! It might be a little scary to reach out to others when you don’t know if you will get rejected or ridiculed or not know what to say. But that is what faith is. The new covers all our sins and I really like and need that because following Jesus example…lets face it, is hard to do all the time.
Thursday, December 1, 2011
Do You Transition?
Read Hebrews 7:11-28
Title in NIV: Superiority of Jesus’ priesthood
These verses are all about how the old covenant (testament) transitioned into the new oath (testament).
(Old) The old law could not attain perfection. (New)The new oath could attain perfection through Jesus Christ.
(Old) If the old law was enough, why did the old prophets predict another priest to come?
(Old) The old was in the order of Aaron. Blood sacrifices over and over. And, priest die. (New) The new saved completely. Jesus sacrificed once for all. He was permanent and never dies.
(Old) Priests descended from Levites. (New) Jesus descended from Judah. This line had Abraham, Isaac, Rahab the prostitute, King David, Joseph (Matthew 1:1-17).
(Old) Priest were selected by regulation. (New) Jesus is priest because of his indestructible life.
(Old) The law was weak and useless. Made us conscience of sin (Romans 3:20). Law makes nothing perfect. The law was put in charge to lead us to Christ (Gal 3:24). (New) Jesus brought a better hope. Jesus is the guarantor of a better covenant. We are made perfect through his blood.
(Old) Temporary. (New) Permanent
(Old) Priest need to sacrifice for himself before he sacrificed for the people. (New) Jesus is holy, blameless, pure, set apart, exalted, gave himself once for all.
(Old) Law appointed men who are weak. (New) Oath appoints the Son who is perfect.
How hard it must have been to transition from the law they grew up learning to love and faith in Jesus Christ. Life is all about how we transition and change.
Can you imagine the people using some of the sayings we use today back then? For example, I can hear someone saying, “Oh that Jesus is just trying to appease people to get people to follow him.” Or “Jesus just tries to entertain.” Or “He uses unbelievable events to draw people to him.” Or “He does not follow the rules.”
Why did they have to change when Jesus came? Circumcision was changed to baptism (both are the outward expression that one follows Christ); Going to the temple to worship became me and you becoming the temple God lives in; slavery to freedom; following 600+ rules became acting in love; giving blood sacrifices became being a living sacrifice.
There are only two laws for us to follow. The two greatest commandments in Matthew 22:37-40 are 1)”Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.” 2)”Love your neighbor as yourself. All the Law and the Prophets hangs on these two commandments.” The way others show love, act in love, move in love, show mercy in love may be different for everyone. Judge only thyself. Let God judge motives.
How have you transitioned over the years to move in-step with God and Jesus Christ? How do you see others who have transitioned beyond your comfort level? How do you see others who have fallen behind when it comes to transitioning to loving one another?
I have deep concern for people who have not transitioned beyond themselves. Sadly this stagnant attitude is all around us. I see it everyday. I pray for growth everyday. I pray for eyes to be opened everyday.
I hold in high regard the people who I see helping the unfortunate. The ones who stretch themselves beyond their comfort zone to benefit others are ones who I look up to.
I have more to say about transitioning. I began another blog for my “Heart” thoughts. You can read them at www.heartpoursforth.blogspot.com
Title in NIV: Superiority of Jesus’ priesthood
These verses are all about how the old covenant (testament) transitioned into the new oath (testament).
(Old) The old law could not attain perfection. (New)The new oath could attain perfection through Jesus Christ.
(Old) If the old law was enough, why did the old prophets predict another priest to come?
(Old) The old was in the order of Aaron. Blood sacrifices over and over. And, priest die. (New) The new saved completely. Jesus sacrificed once for all. He was permanent and never dies.
(Old) Priests descended from Levites. (New) Jesus descended from Judah. This line had Abraham, Isaac, Rahab the prostitute, King David, Joseph (Matthew 1:1-17).
(Old) Priest were selected by regulation. (New) Jesus is priest because of his indestructible life.
(Old) The law was weak and useless. Made us conscience of sin (Romans 3:20). Law makes nothing perfect. The law was put in charge to lead us to Christ (Gal 3:24). (New) Jesus brought a better hope. Jesus is the guarantor of a better covenant. We are made perfect through his blood.
(Old) Temporary. (New) Permanent
(Old) Priest need to sacrifice for himself before he sacrificed for the people. (New) Jesus is holy, blameless, pure, set apart, exalted, gave himself once for all.
(Old) Law appointed men who are weak. (New) Oath appoints the Son who is perfect.
How hard it must have been to transition from the law they grew up learning to love and faith in Jesus Christ. Life is all about how we transition and change.
Can you imagine the people using some of the sayings we use today back then? For example, I can hear someone saying, “Oh that Jesus is just trying to appease people to get people to follow him.” Or “Jesus just tries to entertain.” Or “He uses unbelievable events to draw people to him.” Or “He does not follow the rules.”
Why did they have to change when Jesus came? Circumcision was changed to baptism (both are the outward expression that one follows Christ); Going to the temple to worship became me and you becoming the temple God lives in; slavery to freedom; following 600+ rules became acting in love; giving blood sacrifices became being a living sacrifice.
There are only two laws for us to follow. The two greatest commandments in Matthew 22:37-40 are 1)”Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.” 2)”Love your neighbor as yourself. All the Law and the Prophets hangs on these two commandments.” The way others show love, act in love, move in love, show mercy in love may be different for everyone. Judge only thyself. Let God judge motives.
How have you transitioned over the years to move in-step with God and Jesus Christ? How do you see others who have transitioned beyond your comfort level? How do you see others who have fallen behind when it comes to transitioning to loving one another?
I have deep concern for people who have not transitioned beyond themselves. Sadly this stagnant attitude is all around us. I see it everyday. I pray for growth everyday. I pray for eyes to be opened everyday.
I hold in high regard the people who I see helping the unfortunate. The ones who stretch themselves beyond their comfort zone to benefit others are ones who I look up to.
I have more to say about transitioning. I began another blog for my “Heart” thoughts. You can read them at www.heartpoursforth.blogspot.com
Thursday, November 17, 2011
Melchizedek Points Us to Christ
Read Hebrews 7:1-10
Title in NIV: Priesthood of Melchizadek.
In this section the writer is trying to compare the priesthood of Melchizadek to the priesthood we have in Jesus. There are interesting similarities. Genesis 14:18-20 gives the account of Abram (later Abraham) giving a tenth to the king of Salem, Melchizadek. (Keep in mind Levi is not born yet but there are priest.)
In the account of Mel (I'm going to call him Mel :)), he is called the king of Salem which means 'king of peace'. Jesus was called Prince of Peace in Isaiah 9:6. Mel also means 'king of righteousness'. Jesus was the only one righteous. It is the state of being perfect. We are called to pursue righteousness in 1 Timothy 6:11.
Mel is also called priest of God Most High. Remember in Hebrews 5 that priest are selected among men and called by God. Mel must have had admirable qualities to be called to the priesthood. Verse 4 asks us to contemplate how great Mel must have been to be a priest.
God himself appointed Jesus to be our high priest. God said in Hebrew 5:6, "You are a priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek." Mel seems to be similar to this 'forever' too. It seems his lineage cannot be traced. He seems to have no descendants of Levi. (Verse 4 says Levi was not even born yet at this point )There is no evidence of his mother or father, his beginning of days or end of life. Hebrews 7:3 says, "Just like the Son of God he remains a priest forever."
This is just some interesting similarities to think about. Some day, we'll get the whole story!
Blessings during this time of year!!
Title in NIV: Priesthood of Melchizadek.
In this section the writer is trying to compare the priesthood of Melchizadek to the priesthood we have in Jesus. There are interesting similarities. Genesis 14:18-20 gives the account of Abram (later Abraham) giving a tenth to the king of Salem, Melchizadek. (Keep in mind Levi is not born yet but there are priest.)
In the account of Mel (I'm going to call him Mel :)), he is called the king of Salem which means 'king of peace'. Jesus was called Prince of Peace in Isaiah 9:6. Mel also means 'king of righteousness'. Jesus was the only one righteous. It is the state of being perfect. We are called to pursue righteousness in 1 Timothy 6:11.
Mel is also called priest of God Most High. Remember in Hebrews 5 that priest are selected among men and called by God. Mel must have had admirable qualities to be called to the priesthood. Verse 4 asks us to contemplate how great Mel must have been to be a priest.
God himself appointed Jesus to be our high priest. God said in Hebrew 5:6, "You are a priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek." Mel seems to be similar to this 'forever' too. It seems his lineage cannot be traced. He seems to have no descendants of Levi. (Verse 4 says Levi was not even born yet at this point )There is no evidence of his mother or father, his beginning of days or end of life. Hebrews 7:3 says, "Just like the Son of God he remains a priest forever."
This is just some interesting similarities to think about. Some day, we'll get the whole story!
Blessings during this time of year!!
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Hope Will Not Dissapoint Romans 5:5
OKAY…Good news first! I am now a freelance writer on staff for the Weatherford NOW Magazine. I am so excited that God has given me this opportunity. Writing this blog every Thursday for almost two years (in January) has helped me become disciplined. This quality will help me in this new adventure. The first article should come out in February. To God the glory. All things are preparing us for the next thing.
Read Hebrews 6:13-20
Title in NIV: God’s promise of salvation is assured.
I read these eight verses over and over. Here are some points I jotted down that reminded me of God’s character and helped me deepen my relationship with Him.
1) God keeps his promises. Verse 15 says Abraham received what was promised. Galatians 3:14 tells us what was promised. “He redeemed us in order that the blessing given to Abraham might come to the Gentiles through Christ Jesus, so that by faith we might receive the promise of the Spirit.” 2 Peter 1:4 tells us some benefits we receive by having faith in the promise. “Through these [his glory and goodness] he has given us his very great and precious promise, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires.”
2) Be patient like Abraham. Psalm 40:1 “I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry.” Sometimes being patient is so hard…but worth it!!
3) God’s character is unchanging. Malachi 3:6 “I the Lord do not change.” God may not change, but thank the Lord we will. 1 Corinthians 16:51 “We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed…and be raised imperishable and immortal.”
4) It is impossible for God to lie. (enough said)
5) Hope is offered to us. Romans 8:24 “…we wait eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies. For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is not hope at all. Who hopes for what he already has? But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.” This verse made me think of Philippians 2:15 “…shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life...”
6) This hope is an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. Hope is our anchor for salvation says Mark 13:13. We have a responsibility that comes along with the hope we possess. 1 John 3:3 says, “Everyone who has this hope in him purifies himself, just as he is pure.”
7) Jesus entered behind the curtain, into the Most High Place on our behalf. We will discuss this at length later in the study, but for now Hebrews 9: 11 says, “he [Jesus] went through the greater and more perfect tabernacle…once for all by his own blood having obtained eternal redemption” for all those who love him. Jesus frees us and rescues us from sin.
Blessings to all. The season of giving and thanking God for all we have is upon us. Deeply examine how important family, friends, and those who are searching are to the kingdom of God.
Read Hebrews 6:13-20
Title in NIV: God’s promise of salvation is assured.
I read these eight verses over and over. Here are some points I jotted down that reminded me of God’s character and helped me deepen my relationship with Him.
1) God keeps his promises. Verse 15 says Abraham received what was promised. Galatians 3:14 tells us what was promised. “He redeemed us in order that the blessing given to Abraham might come to the Gentiles through Christ Jesus, so that by faith we might receive the promise of the Spirit.” 2 Peter 1:4 tells us some benefits we receive by having faith in the promise. “Through these [his glory and goodness] he has given us his very great and precious promise, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires.”
2) Be patient like Abraham. Psalm 40:1 “I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry.” Sometimes being patient is so hard…but worth it!!
3) God’s character is unchanging. Malachi 3:6 “I the Lord do not change.” God may not change, but thank the Lord we will. 1 Corinthians 16:51 “We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed…and be raised imperishable and immortal.”
4) It is impossible for God to lie. (enough said)
5) Hope is offered to us. Romans 8:24 “…we wait eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies. For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is not hope at all. Who hopes for what he already has? But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.” This verse made me think of Philippians 2:15 “…shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life...”
6) This hope is an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. Hope is our anchor for salvation says Mark 13:13. We have a responsibility that comes along with the hope we possess. 1 John 3:3 says, “Everyone who has this hope in him purifies himself, just as he is pure.”
7) Jesus entered behind the curtain, into the Most High Place on our behalf. We will discuss this at length later in the study, but for now Hebrews 9: 11 says, “he [Jesus] went through the greater and more perfect tabernacle…once for all by his own blood having obtained eternal redemption” for all those who love him. Jesus frees us and rescues us from sin.
Blessings to all. The season of giving and thanking God for all we have is upon us. Deeply examine how important family, friends, and those who are searching are to the kingdom of God.
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Act On Your Faith Because You Anticipate What Is Promised
Sorry! I thought I sent this last week. Enjoy!!
Read Hebrews 5:7-12
Title in NIV: Maturity in Christ is stressed.
Jesus told many parables to help the people understand. The writer of Hebrews also uses a story to help the readers apply their knowledge to works through action. Spiritual maturity in Christ is action in the physical body. Maturity = action. Maturity cannot be present without action toward the people God loves.
The story in verse 7 is: Land that drinks in rain and that produces a crop that is useful to those who farm it are blessed of God. Said another way: People who gain knowledge and apply it to their lives by living it (action) are beneficial to those who are searching. The ones acting on their knowledge and the ones searching are blessed of God.
The opposite is also true. Verse 8 paraphrased says: people who, no matter how much knowledge of the bible they posses, do not use what they know are stagnant, scared, in denial, and shrink back. Their knowledge is worthless because it is not being used (not action) for His glory and they are in danger of being cursed. Decide today if you will be the people described in verse 7 or 8.
Verse 10 says God will not forget your work. What work do you do? He will not forget the love you have shown him as you have helped his people. When have you helped his people?
Show diligence in showing your love through action to the end “to make your hope sure.” There are many things to hope for. Material things: hope for a new car, hope for a new house, hope for a new bed spread, hope for a new 'tech' toy. But the hope here is a spiritual hope: hope in God, hope in Christ, hope in his Word, hope of glory, hope in heaven, hope that we are children of God, hope for mercy, hope for grace. Hope anchors us (Heb 6:19). The only down side is that we have to wait. We will not see these things until we die or Christ returns. We may see evidence of them. We may see a shadow of the things to come, but we have to wait for the real thing. Keep your anticipation fresh and new every morning.
Go a step farther with God. Know you will see these things because you have faith that God keeps his promises. Verse 12 says, do not become lazy but imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised. When do people get their inheritance? After the person has died. Anything you get before death is a gift.
I waited to find out the sex of both my kids until the day they were born. It drove my husband crazy so he knew the whole time. (Thanks for not ruining my surprise.) I pray that you do not give up your hope because you cannot touch the promise. I pray you do not give up your faith because you cannot see the promise.
Keep your anticipation alive. God will not disappoint!!
Read Hebrews 5:7-12
Title in NIV: Maturity in Christ is stressed.
Jesus told many parables to help the people understand. The writer of Hebrews also uses a story to help the readers apply their knowledge to works through action. Spiritual maturity in Christ is action in the physical body. Maturity = action. Maturity cannot be present without action toward the people God loves.
The story in verse 7 is: Land that drinks in rain and that produces a crop that is useful to those who farm it are blessed of God. Said another way: People who gain knowledge and apply it to their lives by living it (action) are beneficial to those who are searching. The ones acting on their knowledge and the ones searching are blessed of God.
The opposite is also true. Verse 8 paraphrased says: people who, no matter how much knowledge of the bible they posses, do not use what they know are stagnant, scared, in denial, and shrink back. Their knowledge is worthless because it is not being used (not action) for His glory and they are in danger of being cursed. Decide today if you will be the people described in verse 7 or 8.
Verse 10 says God will not forget your work. What work do you do? He will not forget the love you have shown him as you have helped his people. When have you helped his people?
Show diligence in showing your love through action to the end “to make your hope sure.” There are many things to hope for. Material things: hope for a new car, hope for a new house, hope for a new bed spread, hope for a new 'tech' toy. But the hope here is a spiritual hope: hope in God, hope in Christ, hope in his Word, hope of glory, hope in heaven, hope that we are children of God, hope for mercy, hope for grace. Hope anchors us (Heb 6:19). The only down side is that we have to wait. We will not see these things until we die or Christ returns. We may see evidence of them. We may see a shadow of the things to come, but we have to wait for the real thing. Keep your anticipation fresh and new every morning.
Go a step farther with God. Know you will see these things because you have faith that God keeps his promises. Verse 12 says, do not become lazy but imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised. When do people get their inheritance? After the person has died. Anything you get before death is a gift.
I waited to find out the sex of both my kids until the day they were born. It drove my husband crazy so he knew the whole time. (Thanks for not ruining my surprise.) I pray that you do not give up your hope because you cannot touch the promise. I pray you do not give up your faith because you cannot see the promise.
Keep your anticipation alive. God will not disappoint!!
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Maturity to Patiently Anticipate the Promise
Read Hebrews 5:7-12
Title in NIV: Maturity in Christ is stressed.
Jesus told many parables to help the people understand. The writer of Hebrews also uses a story to help the readers apply their knowledge to works/actions. Spiritual maturity in Christ is action in the physical body. Maturity = action. Maturity cannot be present without action toward the people God loves.
The story in verse 7 is: Land that drinks in rain and that produces a crop that is useful to those who farm it are blessed of God. Said another way: People who gain knowledge and apply it to their lives by living it (action) are beneficial to those who are searching. The ones acting on their knowledge and the ones searching are blessed of God.
The opposite is also true. Verse 8 paraphrased says, people who, no matter how much knowledge of the bible they posses, do not use what they know are stagnant, scared, in denial, and shrink back. Their knowledge is worthless because it is not being used for His glory and they are in danger of being cursed. Decide today if you will be the people described in verse 7 or 8.
Verse 10 says God will not forget your work. What work do you do? He will not forget the love you have shown him as you have helped his people. When have you helped his people?
Show diligence in showing your love through action to the end “to make your hope sure.” There are many things to hope for. Material things: hope for a new car, hope for a new house, hope for a new bed spread, hope for a new tech toy. But the hope here is a spiritual hope: hope in God, hope in Christ, hope in his Word, hope of glory, hope in heaven, hope that we are children of God, hope for mercy, hope for grace. Hope anchors us (Heb 6:19). The only down side is that we have to wait. We will not see these things until we die or Christ returns. Keep your anticipation fresh and new every morning.
Go a step farther with God. Know you will see these things because you have faith that God keeps his promises. Verse 12 says, do not become lazy but imitate those who through fait and patience inherit what has been promised. When do people get their inheritance? After the person has died. Anything you get before death is a gift.
I waited to find out the sex of both my kids until the day they were born. It drove my husband crazy so he knew the whole time. (Thanks for not ruining my surprise.) I pray that you do not give up your hope because you cannot touch the promise. I pray you do not give up your faith because you cannot see the promise.
Keep your anticipation alive. God will not disappoint!!
Title in NIV: Maturity in Christ is stressed.
Jesus told many parables to help the people understand. The writer of Hebrews also uses a story to help the readers apply their knowledge to works/actions. Spiritual maturity in Christ is action in the physical body. Maturity = action. Maturity cannot be present without action toward the people God loves.
The story in verse 7 is: Land that drinks in rain and that produces a crop that is useful to those who farm it are blessed of God. Said another way: People who gain knowledge and apply it to their lives by living it (action) are beneficial to those who are searching. The ones acting on their knowledge and the ones searching are blessed of God.
The opposite is also true. Verse 8 paraphrased says, people who, no matter how much knowledge of the bible they posses, do not use what they know are stagnant, scared, in denial, and shrink back. Their knowledge is worthless because it is not being used for His glory and they are in danger of being cursed. Decide today if you will be the people described in verse 7 or 8.
Verse 10 says God will not forget your work. What work do you do? He will not forget the love you have shown him as you have helped his people. When have you helped his people?
Show diligence in showing your love through action to the end “to make your hope sure.” There are many things to hope for. Material things: hope for a new car, hope for a new house, hope for a new bed spread, hope for a new tech toy. But the hope here is a spiritual hope: hope in God, hope in Christ, hope in his Word, hope of glory, hope in heaven, hope that we are children of God, hope for mercy, hope for grace. Hope anchors us (Heb 6:19). The only down side is that we have to wait. We will not see these things until we die or Christ returns. Keep your anticipation fresh and new every morning.
Go a step farther with God. Know you will see these things because you have faith that God keeps his promises. Verse 12 says, do not become lazy but imitate those who through fait and patience inherit what has been promised. When do people get their inheritance? After the person has died. Anything you get before death is a gift.
I waited to find out the sex of both my kids until the day they were born. It drove my husband crazy so he knew the whole time. (Thanks for not ruining my surprise.) I pray that you do not give up your hope because you cannot touch the promise. I pray you do not give up your faith because you cannot see the promise.
Keep your anticipation alive. God will not disappoint!!
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Maturing is Lifelong Process That Never Stops
Read Hebrews 5:11-6:6
Title in NIV: Maturity in Christ is stressed.
This is one of my favorite topics in the bible. Maybe because I need it so much! Maybe because I strive to be more mature. Maybe, to be honest, because I see people who are not mature and it drives me a little crazy. I think of what Paul said in Philippians 3:12, "I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, to attain the resurrection from the dead. Not that I have already obtained all this, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it...but I press on toward the goal." This is the maturity I want to strive for all my life. If I ever feel like I have attained it, I am kidding myself and my maturing process stops.
There are so many good points to make in these verses. First, the writer says the people are slow to learn. Sound familiar? How many of us have had to go through a challenge over and over because we refuse to learn what God has for us. Good to know He will not give up on us and will try over and over with our hearts.
Second, the writer tells the people they should be teachers by now. Should you be a teacher by now? Who do you teach? Who do you reach out to? Are you to the point with God to be a teacher? This does not mean you have to stand in front of a group, but you should be mature and confident enough to share your faith or maybe just be confident enough to say a pray.
But, he tells the people that they do not know enough about the righteousness of God (solid food) and that they need the elementary teaching over again (milk of the word). He does not like the fact that they need to be taught the milk again when they should be on to the solid food.
The milk of the word is the elementary teaching and they include: repentance, faith in God, instructions about baptism, laying on of hands, resurrection of dead, eternal judgment. To me that is the knowledge of the Word. I believe the solid food is the action of the Word. Action of the Word is also the obedience of the Word. How can you be obedient with knowledge. Obedience comes from doing what you know (James 1:22). The writer says that by constant use we can train ourselves to distinguish between good and evil. Constant use is the key to being mature.
Examine your maturity level and decide to listen to God’s whispers to you. It might be to take that bag of clothes to your friend’s kids that has been sitting in the dinning room for two months. It might be to pick up that trash in the ditch that has been there for a month. It might be to buy that little gift for a friend and mail it to them. Whatever God whispers, step out with God and train yourself to become more mature in your actions everyday.
Verse 4-6 says, “It is impossible for those who have once been enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, who have shared the Holy Spirit…if they fall away, to be brought back to repentance…” This has always been hard for me to accept. I’ll hear, “Well that person was really not enlightened or given the Holy Spirit and that is why they turned away.” I know people who fit that description. I pray for them to return to God like they once were. I think of 2 Timothy 2:19, “The Lord knows those who are his.” I believe there are people on earth who are not a part of the body of Christ (even church members), who are not in the kingdom of God. I believe they will not be given the Holy Spirit because their heart is corrupt and even if they look like they are doing the right thing on the outside, they reject Him in their heart. Matthew 23 describes this behavior. Jesus says, “Woe! To the teachers of the law who look like beautiful on the outside but on the inside are like dead men’s bones and everything unclean.” I’m sure I do not understand this verse. I would love to know how you understand this verse.
So, help me out and give me your perspective. I would love to hear another view of verse 4-6. Blessings
Title in NIV: Maturity in Christ is stressed.
This is one of my favorite topics in the bible. Maybe because I need it so much! Maybe because I strive to be more mature. Maybe, to be honest, because I see people who are not mature and it drives me a little crazy. I think of what Paul said in Philippians 3:12, "I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, to attain the resurrection from the dead. Not that I have already obtained all this, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it...but I press on toward the goal." This is the maturity I want to strive for all my life. If I ever feel like I have attained it, I am kidding myself and my maturing process stops.
There are so many good points to make in these verses. First, the writer says the people are slow to learn. Sound familiar? How many of us have had to go through a challenge over and over because we refuse to learn what God has for us. Good to know He will not give up on us and will try over and over with our hearts.
Second, the writer tells the people they should be teachers by now. Should you be a teacher by now? Who do you teach? Who do you reach out to? Are you to the point with God to be a teacher? This does not mean you have to stand in front of a group, but you should be mature and confident enough to share your faith or maybe just be confident enough to say a pray.
But, he tells the people that they do not know enough about the righteousness of God (solid food) and that they need the elementary teaching over again (milk of the word). He does not like the fact that they need to be taught the milk again when they should be on to the solid food.
The milk of the word is the elementary teaching and they include: repentance, faith in God, instructions about baptism, laying on of hands, resurrection of dead, eternal judgment. To me that is the knowledge of the Word. I believe the solid food is the action of the Word. Action of the Word is also the obedience of the Word. How can you be obedient with knowledge. Obedience comes from doing what you know (James 1:22). The writer says that by constant use we can train ourselves to distinguish between good and evil. Constant use is the key to being mature.
Examine your maturity level and decide to listen to God’s whispers to you. It might be to take that bag of clothes to your friend’s kids that has been sitting in the dinning room for two months. It might be to pick up that trash in the ditch that has been there for a month. It might be to buy that little gift for a friend and mail it to them. Whatever God whispers, step out with God and train yourself to become more mature in your actions everyday.
Verse 4-6 says, “It is impossible for those who have once been enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, who have shared the Holy Spirit…if they fall away, to be brought back to repentance…” This has always been hard for me to accept. I’ll hear, “Well that person was really not enlightened or given the Holy Spirit and that is why they turned away.” I know people who fit that description. I pray for them to return to God like they once were. I think of 2 Timothy 2:19, “The Lord knows those who are his.” I believe there are people on earth who are not a part of the body of Christ (even church members), who are not in the kingdom of God. I believe they will not be given the Holy Spirit because their heart is corrupt and even if they look like they are doing the right thing on the outside, they reject Him in their heart. Matthew 23 describes this behavior. Jesus says, “Woe! To the teachers of the law who look like beautiful on the outside but on the inside are like dead men’s bones and everything unclean.” I’m sure I do not understand this verse. I would love to know how you understand this verse.
So, help me out and give me your perspective. I would love to hear another view of verse 4-6. Blessings
Thursday, October 13, 2011
A BIGGER Plan
Read Hebrews 5:1-10
Discussion about the high priest.
There are similarities to the high priest and Jesus. After all, he was our high priest and did everything the high priest did for the people in the old testament. The difference is that, because God had a bigger plan, Jesus only had to make the sacrifice once for all and the old testament high priest had to make sacrifices over and over.
Both old testament high priest and Jesus as our High Priest:
1. were selected from among men
2. represent men in matters related to God
3. offered gifts and sacrifices for sin
4. offered prayers and petitions
5. both are appointed and called by God
6. both were subject to weakness
To be subject to someone is to be under their authority or control. It also means contingent or conditional upon [obedience]. Someone made to undergo [death on a cross for the salvation of all.] To place under or below (made a little lower than the angels Heb. 2:7 until he was glorified again through death.) To make vulnerable. Submit.
Only old testament high priest had to offer a sacrifice for his sins first before he offered a sacrifice for the people. Jesus was without sin.
Verse 7 says Jesus offered prayers and petitions with loud cries to the one who could save him from death. However, the answer was ‘no’. God had a bigger plan, a better way. Do you sometimes get upset because out pray does not get answered the way you wanted: A house you did not get, a job you lost or did not get, a loved one dying, a divorce you did not want. I challenge you to explore the possibility of God’s bigger plan in that situation. Did something better come along because God said ‘no’ first? Did your character get stronger because you did not get what you wanted? Look deep and bet you can find a character building element in your hardships.
God had a bigger plan. The old testament pointed to it on almost every page.
Next week is one of my favorite subjects to write about… maturity in Christ.
Come back and join me.
Discussion about the high priest.
There are similarities to the high priest and Jesus. After all, he was our high priest and did everything the high priest did for the people in the old testament. The difference is that, because God had a bigger plan, Jesus only had to make the sacrifice once for all and the old testament high priest had to make sacrifices over and over.
Both old testament high priest and Jesus as our High Priest:
1. were selected from among men
2. represent men in matters related to God
3. offered gifts and sacrifices for sin
4. offered prayers and petitions
5. both are appointed and called by God
6. both were subject to weakness
To be subject to someone is to be under their authority or control. It also means contingent or conditional upon [obedience]. Someone made to undergo [death on a cross for the salvation of all.] To place under or below (made a little lower than the angels Heb. 2:7 until he was glorified again through death.) To make vulnerable. Submit.
Only old testament high priest had to offer a sacrifice for his sins first before he offered a sacrifice for the people. Jesus was without sin.
Verse 7 says Jesus offered prayers and petitions with loud cries to the one who could save him from death. However, the answer was ‘no’. God had a bigger plan, a better way. Do you sometimes get upset because out pray does not get answered the way you wanted: A house you did not get, a job you lost or did not get, a loved one dying, a divorce you did not want. I challenge you to explore the possibility of God’s bigger plan in that situation. Did something better come along because God said ‘no’ first? Did your character get stronger because you did not get what you wanted? Look deep and bet you can find a character building element in your hardships.
God had a bigger plan. The old testament pointed to it on almost every page.
Next week is one of my favorite subjects to write about… maturity in Christ.
Come back and join me.
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Be Confident Not 'Full of Yourself'
Read Hebrews 4:14-16
Title in NIV: Mercy is found at the throne of God..
I think it will be helpful to understand some definitions when reading this passage.
High Priest- priest that gave sacrifices and gifts to God; mediator between God and people
Faith- Hebrews 11:1- being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.
Grace- undeserved love and salvation God gives
Romans 5 says if we have faith we are justified, we receive grace, we have peace with God; through Jesus Christ we have gained access to grace in which we now stand
Justified-to be free from guilt of blame by faith
Reconciled- to settle differences, to be in harmony again; Romans 5:10 talks about being ALREADY reconciled to God because of Jesus' death and we should rejoice. Our differences are already settled.
Jesus is our great high priest who has gone through heaven and held out a bowl of his blood. He can sympathize with our weakness because he was on earth and was tempted in every way. We should, then, hold firmly to the faith we say we have. There is a problem when we profess Jesus Christ, but we say things like, "I hope I am saved," or "I'm not confident of my salvation." I have heard people say those things and it makes me sad. Be confident.
Confidence in salvation is different than pride ( 'full of yourself'). Don't confuse confidence in salvation with pride. Verse 16 says, "Let us approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need."
There is a difference between confidence and 'full of yourself'. Confidence is brave but not showy; quiet and not boastful; humble/meek but not a push over; respects others but does not compromise; joyful even in trials (not to be confused with happy); peace WITH God not fear OF God. We are told in Proverbs 3:26 that the Lord is our confidence.
Isaiah 32:17, "The fruit of righteousness will be peace, the effect of righteousness will be quietness and confidence forever.
I believe the promises of God more than I am scared of the Judgment Day because I AM in Jesus Christ. I am actively seeking Him each day (of course I could do better), but I am not running away from Him so I am remaining in Him as a choice. We have not been given a spirit of timidity, 2 Timothy 1:7.
Be confident in your salvation! Confident people do great things!
Title in NIV: Mercy is found at the throne of God..
I think it will be helpful to understand some definitions when reading this passage.
High Priest- priest that gave sacrifices and gifts to God; mediator between God and people
Faith- Hebrews 11:1- being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.
Grace- undeserved love and salvation God gives
Romans 5 says if we have faith we are justified, we receive grace, we have peace with God; through Jesus Christ we have gained access to grace in which we now stand
Justified-to be free from guilt of blame by faith
Reconciled- to settle differences, to be in harmony again; Romans 5:10 talks about being ALREADY reconciled to God because of Jesus' death and we should rejoice. Our differences are already settled.
Jesus is our great high priest who has gone through heaven and held out a bowl of his blood. He can sympathize with our weakness because he was on earth and was tempted in every way. We should, then, hold firmly to the faith we say we have. There is a problem when we profess Jesus Christ, but we say things like, "I hope I am saved," or "I'm not confident of my salvation." I have heard people say those things and it makes me sad. Be confident.
Confidence in salvation is different than pride ( 'full of yourself'). Don't confuse confidence in salvation with pride. Verse 16 says, "Let us approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need."
There is a difference between confidence and 'full of yourself'. Confidence is brave but not showy; quiet and not boastful; humble/meek but not a push over; respects others but does not compromise; joyful even in trials (not to be confused with happy); peace WITH God not fear OF God. We are told in Proverbs 3:26 that the Lord is our confidence.
Isaiah 32:17, "The fruit of righteousness will be peace, the effect of righteousness will be quietness and confidence forever.
I believe the promises of God more than I am scared of the Judgment Day because I AM in Jesus Christ. I am actively seeking Him each day (of course I could do better), but I am not running away from Him so I am remaining in Him as a choice. We have not been given a spirit of timidity, 2 Timothy 1:7.
Be confident in your salvation! Confident people do great things!
Friday, September 30, 2011
Do You Have a 'Goat's' Heart or a "Lamb's' Heart?
Read Hebrew 4:12-13
Title in NIV: The Word of God is Sharper than a Double-edged Sword
Ahh! A new topic. A deep topic at that. The heart. The word of God will judge the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Just like when we check our bank balance to see how much money we have, God will check our heart balance to see how much Fruit of the Spirit we have.
If I have allowed Jesus to penetrate my heart I should not be afraid for God to search it. Yes, there is still sin there, I am still human, but Jesus’ blood covers over it. (let me make a list):
1 Chronicles 28:9 the Lord searches every heart and understands every motive behind the thought
1 Samuel 16:7 The Lord does not look at the things man. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart (talking about young David being anointed by Samuel)
Psalms 139:23 Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.
Proverbs 27:19 as water reflects the face, so a man’s heart reflects the man
Luke 16:15 You are the ones who justify yourselves in the eyes of men, but God knows your heart. What is highly valued among men is detestable in God sight.
Romans 8:26-27 (read this)
Revelation 2:23-25 (scary)
Verse 13 says Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account. I think this verse scares a lot of people. I knew a lady who thought when she got to the door of heaven her sins were going to be displayed on a big screen T.V. She was scared she would have to give an account for everyone. She was scared everyone else could see the T.V.
I cry out to you to believe God’s promises!! Romans 8:1 Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. Romans 3:22 The righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. I tend to believe these promises more than I am scared of the ‘account’ verses.
I am prepared to call on my Lord and Savior. I hope I say, “Lord, I am a sinner. I am not worthy on my own. Forgive me and grant me grace and mercy through Jesus Christ, my Savior.” I know I have done everything on the ‘rap-sheet” of my own free will. At some point, I know from scripture, Jesus will step in and say, “This one is mine.” I will look as white as snow (Ps 51:7—read all Ps 51…beautiful; Is 1:18, Rev 7:14)
I don’t understand it all, but that is what is promised in scripture and I have faith in scripture. Read Hebrews 9:14 and 1 John 1:7.
To tie it all together: God looks at the heart of a (wo)man. Depending on what he sees, he will consider you a goat and cast you aside saying, “I never knew you.” OR he will consider you a lamb and beckon you into heaven saying, “Enter my good and faithful servant.”
How is your heart? How is your attitude? What are your motives? I encourage you to examine yourself daily to determine if you have the heart of a goat or the heart of the Lamb.
Title in NIV: The Word of God is Sharper than a Double-edged Sword
Ahh! A new topic. A deep topic at that. The heart. The word of God will judge the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Just like when we check our bank balance to see how much money we have, God will check our heart balance to see how much Fruit of the Spirit we have.
If I have allowed Jesus to penetrate my heart I should not be afraid for God to search it. Yes, there is still sin there, I am still human, but Jesus’ blood covers over it. (let me make a list):
1 Chronicles 28:9 the Lord searches every heart and understands every motive behind the thought
1 Samuel 16:7 The Lord does not look at the things man. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart (talking about young David being anointed by Samuel)
Psalms 139:23 Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.
Proverbs 27:19 as water reflects the face, so a man’s heart reflects the man
Luke 16:15 You are the ones who justify yourselves in the eyes of men, but God knows your heart. What is highly valued among men is detestable in God sight.
Romans 8:26-27 (read this)
Revelation 2:23-25 (scary)
Verse 13 says Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account. I think this verse scares a lot of people. I knew a lady who thought when she got to the door of heaven her sins were going to be displayed on a big screen T.V. She was scared she would have to give an account for everyone. She was scared everyone else could see the T.V.
I cry out to you to believe God’s promises!! Romans 8:1 Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. Romans 3:22 The righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. I tend to believe these promises more than I am scared of the ‘account’ verses.
We may have to give an account to the Judge, but we will not be held accountable. However, I think we should be prepared when we stand before the Judge. Eve had to give an account. She blamed someone else (Adam). Sarah had to give an account of her laughter. She lied to God. Jonah skipped the account part- for a while- and ran from God. These people’s response to God was not very beneficial to them. I wonder what would have happened it they would have repented before God?
I am prepared to call on my Lord and Savior. I hope I say, “Lord, I am a sinner. I am not worthy on my own. Forgive me and grant me grace and mercy through Jesus Christ, my Savior.” I know I have done everything on the ‘rap-sheet” of my own free will. At some point, I know from scripture, Jesus will step in and say, “This one is mine.” I will look as white as snow (Ps 51:7—read all Ps 51…beautiful; Is 1:18, Rev 7:14)
I don’t understand it all, but that is what is promised in scripture and I have faith in scripture. Read Hebrews 9:14 and 1 John 1:7.
To tie it all together: God looks at the heart of a (wo)man. Depending on what he sees, he will consider you a goat and cast you aside saying, “I never knew you.” OR he will consider you a lamb and beckon you into heaven saying, “Enter my good and faithful servant.”
How is your heart? How is your attitude? What are your motives? I encourage you to examine yourself daily to determine if you have the heart of a goat or the heart of the Lamb.
Thursday, September 22, 2011
The Keys to Heaven...Get Them Here
I just can't leave the topic of the Spirit yet. It is so rich and multifaceted. I thought of the difference between the Spirit and the soul. Read on...
The Spirit is given to us when we make the decision to follow Jesus and live for him. After this decision, the Holy Spirit lives in us. We can decided to listen to the Holy Spirit or suppress it and ignore it. Our soul is the non-physical part of our being. When we die, I believe the soul and Spirit are separated by the Word of God like Hebrews 4:12 describes. The Spirit is the perfect Spirit of Jesus Christ but the soul will be judged (Matthew 16:26). Think of it like this: the good (Spirit) will be separated from evil (soul); the light (Spirit) will be separated from dark (soul). Our soul is what we have decided to be in our earthy life. To explain it deeper, I think our soul is what we have allowed our character to become. Our soul is the keeper of our attitudes, our motives and our deeds. What does your character say about you? It is filled with unforgiveness, anger, judgement, comforts of the world, a divided heart. Remember, your friends may not be able to see some of the secrets on your soul but God does. We may try to be full of good character but we are bent toward evil...just read Romans. The only way we look good to God is because Jesus has stepped in front of us and claimed us for his own.
This is a good place to read Matthew 16:19. "I will give you the keys to the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven and whatever you loose on earth will be be loosed in heaven." Why is it that if the keys to the kingdom of heaven are explained in this verse, I have never heard a preacher ever talk about it? I heard a highly respected lady teach this concept and I think about it often. So, what you bind on your soul goes with you to heaven's door. Is bitterness, laziness, hatred, jealously, sexual immorality bound to your soul where it can be seen by the judge? Or is love, patience, kindness, forgiveness, gentleness, peace, joy, self-control and faithfulness bound to your soul that can be seen by the judge? The Word says you can loose sins from your soul. You just need to replace the sinful attributes of your character with the fruit of the Spirit. When you rid yourself of the sins in this world you will go to the door of heaven looking beautiful and white like snow. You will be blessed for acting like Jesus is in your soul instead of living like the world is in your soul.
It is impossible to rid ourselves of all our sins. That is why Jesus is there to step in front of us. When God looks at us through Jesus his Son, we look perfect because God is looking through the perfect righteousness of Jesus. So, above all, put on Jesus as your Savior and your righteousness knowing your deeds, your attitude, your character, and your motives will not be perfect, but that Jesus, your rescuer, is perfect!
Blessings!!
The Spirit is given to us when we make the decision to follow Jesus and live for him. After this decision, the Holy Spirit lives in us. We can decided to listen to the Holy Spirit or suppress it and ignore it. Our soul is the non-physical part of our being. When we die, I believe the soul and Spirit are separated by the Word of God like Hebrews 4:12 describes. The Spirit is the perfect Spirit of Jesus Christ but the soul will be judged (Matthew 16:26). Think of it like this: the good (Spirit) will be separated from evil (soul); the light (Spirit) will be separated from dark (soul). Our soul is what we have decided to be in our earthy life. To explain it deeper, I think our soul is what we have allowed our character to become. Our soul is the keeper of our attitudes, our motives and our deeds. What does your character say about you? It is filled with unforgiveness, anger, judgement, comforts of the world, a divided heart. Remember, your friends may not be able to see some of the secrets on your soul but God does. We may try to be full of good character but we are bent toward evil...just read Romans. The only way we look good to God is because Jesus has stepped in front of us and claimed us for his own.
This is a good place to read Matthew 16:19. "I will give you the keys to the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven and whatever you loose on earth will be be loosed in heaven." Why is it that if the keys to the kingdom of heaven are explained in this verse, I have never heard a preacher ever talk about it? I heard a highly respected lady teach this concept and I think about it often. So, what you bind on your soul goes with you to heaven's door. Is bitterness, laziness, hatred, jealously, sexual immorality bound to your soul where it can be seen by the judge? Or is love, patience, kindness, forgiveness, gentleness, peace, joy, self-control and faithfulness bound to your soul that can be seen by the judge? The Word says you can loose sins from your soul. You just need to replace the sinful attributes of your character with the fruit of the Spirit. When you rid yourself of the sins in this world you will go to the door of heaven looking beautiful and white like snow. You will be blessed for acting like Jesus is in your soul instead of living like the world is in your soul.
It is impossible to rid ourselves of all our sins. That is why Jesus is there to step in front of us. When God looks at us through Jesus his Son, we look perfect because God is looking through the perfect righteousness of Jesus. So, above all, put on Jesus as your Savior and your righteousness knowing your deeds, your attitude, your character, and your motives will not be perfect, but that Jesus, your rescuer, is perfect!
Blessings!!
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Word Divides Soul and Spirit
So how did you do last week? Did you take the challenge and read an old story? Did you find something new in it? Let me know. I would love to hear more comments and stories from YOU.
Read Hebrews 4:12-13
The next concept to consider is: the Word is sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit; joint and marrow.
I did so much study on the soul and spirit as it pertains to this verse. Sometimes soul and spirit (little 's') are used as the same word. I can't put my finger on it yet, but there is a subtle difference.
1 Thes. 5:23 says, "may your whole spirit, soul and body be kept clean." I believe we have to make an effort to keep all three in check. One can become 'dirty' and out of balance with the others. One can affect the other two.
Definitions: Soul- non-physical part of humans. spirit (small 's')- inner man
They can be the same or used interchangeably depending on the context of the verse. But there is a difference: we can choose to save or forfeit our soul (Mt. 16:26). But our spirit is produced by the indwelling Holy Spirit. I think the spirit (small 's') is more like the characteristics I possess. And the drive, desire and perseverance I possess; maybe the force behind my heart. For example, I can have a gentle and quiet spirit (1Peter 3:4), I can pray for God to renew a steadfast spirit in me (Ps 51:10), I know my spirit is willing but my body is weak (Mt 26:41). The spirit seems to be my motivation behind my actions. The demons have a spirit, too. Theirs is not a Godly spirit. Even the Word tells us to distinguish between spirits and test them to see if they are from God (1 John 4:1).
My soul can be restored by God (Ps 23:3), my soul can yearn or pant after Jesus and goodness (Ps 42:1), my soul can be downcast (Ps 42:11), my soul can praise (Ps 103:1), my soul can delight (Is 55:2), man cannot kill the soul (Mt 10:28), I can forfeit my soul by disobedience (Mt 16:26), I can win souls to Jesus (Pr 11:30), I can find rest for my soul (Jer 6:16 & Mt 11:29).
I can forfeit my soul through disobedience or save my soul. I choose to save my soul by encapsulating my soul with the Spirit of Jesus Christ. I want God to see, at judgement, that my soul is so engulfed with Jesus' Spirit that God sees righteousness. Not my own, of course, but the righteousness God promises is mine thought Jesus. My heart accepts him and my actions show who my soul yearns for.
I don't fully understand how the soul and spirit will be divided. There are just things we know only in part (1Cor13:9). But, I have enjoyed studying for this post. If you have any insight...please share it with me!!
Next week I have a post about the Spirit (capital 's') that is our counselor and promised to all believers.
Blessings!!
Read Hebrews 4:12-13
The next concept to consider is: the Word is sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit; joint and marrow.
I did so much study on the soul and spirit as it pertains to this verse. Sometimes soul and spirit (little 's') are used as the same word. I can't put my finger on it yet, but there is a subtle difference.
1 Thes. 5:23 says, "may your whole spirit, soul and body be kept clean." I believe we have to make an effort to keep all three in check. One can become 'dirty' and out of balance with the others. One can affect the other two.
Definitions: Soul- non-physical part of humans. spirit (small 's')- inner man
They can be the same or used interchangeably depending on the context of the verse. But there is a difference: we can choose to save or forfeit our soul (Mt. 16:26). But our spirit is produced by the indwelling Holy Spirit. I think the spirit (small 's') is more like the characteristics I possess. And the drive, desire and perseverance I possess; maybe the force behind my heart. For example, I can have a gentle and quiet spirit (1Peter 3:4), I can pray for God to renew a steadfast spirit in me (Ps 51:10), I know my spirit is willing but my body is weak (Mt 26:41). The spirit seems to be my motivation behind my actions. The demons have a spirit, too. Theirs is not a Godly spirit. Even the Word tells us to distinguish between spirits and test them to see if they are from God (1 John 4:1).
My soul can be restored by God (Ps 23:3), my soul can yearn or pant after Jesus and goodness (Ps 42:1), my soul can be downcast (Ps 42:11), my soul can praise (Ps 103:1), my soul can delight (Is 55:2), man cannot kill the soul (Mt 10:28), I can forfeit my soul by disobedience (Mt 16:26), I can win souls to Jesus (Pr 11:30), I can find rest for my soul (Jer 6:16 & Mt 11:29).
I can forfeit my soul through disobedience or save my soul. I choose to save my soul by encapsulating my soul with the Spirit of Jesus Christ. I want God to see, at judgement, that my soul is so engulfed with Jesus' Spirit that God sees righteousness. Not my own, of course, but the righteousness God promises is mine thought Jesus. My heart accepts him and my actions show who my soul yearns for.
I don't fully understand how the soul and spirit will be divided. There are just things we know only in part (1Cor13:9). But, I have enjoyed studying for this post. If you have any insight...please share it with me!!
Next week I have a post about the Spirit (capital 's') that is our counselor and promised to all believers.
Blessings!!
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