"And their eyes were opened. And Jesus sternly warned them, saying, “See that no one knows it.” But when they had departed, they spread the news about Him in all that country." vv.30-31
Read chapter 9.
They directly did the opposite of what Jesus commanded! We sometimes think we're doing God a favor when we're really not. We think we know better than God, that He "didn't know what He was talking about" or that we can see a better way, but anything that is not of faith is sin (Romans 14:23). What are blatant ways that you've done opposite of what God has said?
Saturday, February 28, 2015
Friday, February 27, 2015
Matthew 8
"And Jesus said to him, “See that you tell no one; but go your way, show yourself to the priest, and offer the gift that Moses commanded, as a testimony to them.” v.4
Read chapter 8.
Do you wonder why Jesus says "tell no one"? The law was still in place and Jews still required to keep the law, even Jesus. In Leviticus 14 it talks about the law of the leper and duties of the priest for his cleansing. Offerings would be of birds- one to be killed and one set free and then after 8 days present self before the Lord with a trespass and a wave offering. So it was later, 8 days, before it was made public. Our immediate response is to go tell everyone when something miraculous happens, yet Jesus seems to want to make sure the law came first in obeying what God put in place. Sometimes we think we're helping God by doing something we think is good, yet it's not what He commands. Will you respond to what God says than what you think is better or best? Do you go to praise God first before you go to everyone else or do you just talk about Him instead of to Him? What are some other reasons you think Jesus said this?
Read chapter 8.
Do you wonder why Jesus says "tell no one"? The law was still in place and Jews still required to keep the law, even Jesus. In Leviticus 14 it talks about the law of the leper and duties of the priest for his cleansing. Offerings would be of birds- one to be killed and one set free and then after 8 days present self before the Lord with a trespass and a wave offering. So it was later, 8 days, before it was made public. Our immediate response is to go tell everyone when something miraculous happens, yet Jesus seems to want to make sure the law came first in obeying what God put in place. Sometimes we think we're helping God by doing something we think is good, yet it's not what He commands. Will you respond to what God says than what you think is better or best? Do you go to praise God first before you go to everyone else or do you just talk about Him instead of to Him? What are some other reasons you think Jesus said this?
Thursday, February 26, 2015
Matthew 7
“Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock. “But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man..." vv.24-26
Read chapter 7.
Have you ever noticed that the storms come to both men? The one who built his house on the Rock and the one who didn't. Yes the one who doesn't have the firm foundation of Christ will not stand but the house on Christ is still going to be hit by storms. So when someone becomes a believer of Jesus, life doesn't just all of the sudden become perfect. We're still hit by the ways of this world that hurt and scare us like a thunderstorm to a little child, but with Christ we will not fall!
Read chapter 7.
Have you ever noticed that the storms come to both men? The one who built his house on the Rock and the one who didn't. Yes the one who doesn't have the firm foundation of Christ will not stand but the house on Christ is still going to be hit by storms. So when someone becomes a believer of Jesus, life doesn't just all of the sudden become perfect. We're still hit by the ways of this world that hurt and scare us like a thunderstorm to a little child, but with Christ we will not fall!
Wednesday, February 25, 2015
Matthew 6
"Your kingdom come. your will be done on earth as it is in heaven...but seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness," vv. 10,33
Read chapter 6.
Do you know what you're praying for? What is the kingdom of God? What scripture do you know that describes God's kingdom than just what "you hope" it's like?
Read chapter 6.
Do you know what you're praying for? What is the kingdom of God? What scripture do you know that describes God's kingdom than just what "you hope" it's like?
Isn't it a crazy and sad thing that this is one of the most repeated prayers and scripture memory people know (believers and nonbelievers alike), yet the majority don't even know what they're praying for! And then when he says to "seek first His kingdom" they don't know what they should be searching for. It'd be like playing capture the flag, yet not know what a flag is. Majority of Jesus' parables were based on "the kingdom of heaven is like..." It's what the disciples asked Jesus if He was going to restore it, it's what Paul preached throughout his ministry, it's basically the theme of the Bible.
Tuesday, February 24, 2015
Matthew 5
"But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you," v.44
Read chapter 5.
Gall is this verse hard sometimes, actually all the time, but when actually played out it's amazing! Our hearts seem to soften for them, we understand God's grace with us as we should with others. I never noticed the part before about those who 'spitefully use you' but wow do I notice that and get angry at them in my heart without saying anything when I feel like people only hangout with me if there's some benefit to them. I get more insecure then trying to pray for them in their insecurities! So great too that in this way is how Christians can preach the gospel "not just in words and tongue but in actions and in truth" (1 John 3:18). Are some of your enemies people your closest to? How can you bless and love them with actions and in truth?
Read chapter 5.
Gall is this verse hard sometimes, actually all the time, but when actually played out it's amazing! Our hearts seem to soften for them, we understand God's grace with us as we should with others. I never noticed the part before about those who 'spitefully use you' but wow do I notice that and get angry at them in my heart without saying anything when I feel like people only hangout with me if there's some benefit to them. I get more insecure then trying to pray for them in their insecurities! So great too that in this way is how Christians can preach the gospel "not just in words and tongue but in actions and in truth" (1 John 3:18). Are some of your enemies people your closest to? How can you bless and love them with actions and in truth?
Monday, February 23, 2015
Matthew 4
"and said to Him, 'If you are the son of God, throw Yourself down. For it is written: 'He shall give His angles charge over you' and 'In their hands they shall bear you up, lest you dash your feet against a stone.'" v.6
Read chapter 4. Satan quotes scripture! Yet he misquotes it purposely to make it seem so close to the truth but it's not. Just like he did to Eve in the garden in Genesis 2 by adding and subtracting to God's word to ultimately deceive her. Same in this chapter, Satan leaves out the quote from Psalm 91 "to keep you in all your ways." If he would have said that part, it would've been obvious that all God's ways aren't Satan's ways of what Satan was then asking of Him. The translators also messed up by trying to 'fix' Satan's misquotation by leaving out what he added. Originally it says "Lest AT ANYTIME you dash your foot against a stone." Adding 'at anytime' make it seem that God wouldn't allow Christ to be crucified then. They're small changes but no matter how close to the truth it is it's NOT. Do you know scripture well enough to discern between truth and false truth?
Read chapter 4. Satan quotes scripture! Yet he misquotes it purposely to make it seem so close to the truth but it's not. Just like he did to Eve in the garden in Genesis 2 by adding and subtracting to God's word to ultimately deceive her. Same in this chapter, Satan leaves out the quote from Psalm 91 "to keep you in all your ways." If he would have said that part, it would've been obvious that all God's ways aren't Satan's ways of what Satan was then asking of Him. The translators also messed up by trying to 'fix' Satan's misquotation by leaving out what he added. Originally it says "Lest AT ANYTIME you dash your foot against a stone." Adding 'at anytime' make it seem that God wouldn't allow Christ to be crucified then. They're small changes but no matter how close to the truth it is it's NOT. Do you know scripture well enough to discern between truth and false truth?
Sunday, February 22, 2015
Matthew 3
"I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire." v.11
Read chapter 3. Notice there's three different baptisms in this one verse: one of water, one of the Holy Spirit, and one of fire. It's common thought today of thinking baptism means some kind of water ritual, but it's clear in this verse that water is only part of one of the three baptisms. The word baptism is a transliteration (not translated but made English sounding). The word means identification in becoming identified with something or someone.
How does this perhaps change your idea of baptism? Are you identified with Jesus Christ? Not by a water ritual but by believing that He is God and that He died for your sins?
Read chapter 3. Notice there's three different baptisms in this one verse: one of water, one of the Holy Spirit, and one of fire. It's common thought today of thinking baptism means some kind of water ritual, but it's clear in this verse that water is only part of one of the three baptisms. The word baptism is a transliteration (not translated but made English sounding). The word means identification in becoming identified with something or someone.
- Water was a symbol of identification of repentance to Jews by John the Baptist for "He who is coming after me [John]." They would believe that He, being Jesus, is the Messiah no matter what happens.
- To be identified with the Holy Spirit would be receiving the power of the Holy Spirit in signs following (Mark 16).
- Identification with fire: if baptism is immersion (as some denominations say), why would God immerse us in fire? Fire in scripture often has to do with judgments- not punishment. I believe the baptism of fire is the identification we receive when we stand before Him on the judgment seat in the Kingdom- identifying by what He sets right.
How does this perhaps change your idea of baptism? Are you identified with Jesus Christ? Not by a water ritual but by believing that He is God and that He died for your sins?
Saturday, February 21, 2015
Matthew 2
"Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod...And he came and dwelt in a city called Nazareth..." vv. 1, 23
Read chapter 2. So much time passes in this chapter that we sometimes don't realize. Like the magi arrive a while after Jesus is born and not the night of, of what is portrayed in most Nativity scenes today. Jesus lives in three different places by the time He is many years old: Bethlehem, Egypt and Nazareth. Travel back then was a lot harder than it is today. They didn't have cars, buses, trains, planes. Can you imagine how difficult it would be with a baby and also fear of their lives? Joseph and Mary were obedient to listen to the Lord and leave in the middle of the night even- not the most opportune time.
Do you wait for the opportune time to do what the Lord has asked? Are you ok changing your schedule for His?
Read chapter 2. So much time passes in this chapter that we sometimes don't realize. Like the magi arrive a while after Jesus is born and not the night of, of what is portrayed in most Nativity scenes today. Jesus lives in three different places by the time He is many years old: Bethlehem, Egypt and Nazareth. Travel back then was a lot harder than it is today. They didn't have cars, buses, trains, planes. Can you imagine how difficult it would be with a baby and also fear of their lives? Joseph and Mary were obedient to listen to the Lord and leave in the middle of the night even- not the most opportune time.
Do you wait for the opportune time to do what the Lord has asked? Are you ok changing your schedule for His?
Friday, February 20, 2015
Matthew 1
"Asa begot Jehoshaphat, Jehoshaphat begot Joram, and Joram begot Uzziah." v.8
Read chapter 1.
That's a mouthful! Andrew Peterson wrote a song to Christ's genealogy of verses 1-18. I played it nonstop for a whole summer till I had it memorized and always in this verse eight I felt like I couldn't breath trying to pronounce each syllable with the fast beat of the song. A lot of people ask me who cares of what does it matter of lists of names in the Bible, but I bet if their name were in it they'd think differently. Or what about how excited a parent gets when their child's name is in the news paper? The cool thing with this genealogy is that it's the kingly line of Christ and should be well known names and stories brought to mind of each king as the believer reads throughout the Old Testament. Kind of like our presidents in the USA, most people know them in order and certain details of many of them. How much more meaningful are the God appointed kings that led to the King of Kings! So don't just skim over these names, but test yourself if you know any of them. Or maybe pick one today to learn about. Matthew Begats song
Read chapter 1.
That's a mouthful! Andrew Peterson wrote a song to Christ's genealogy of verses 1-18. I played it nonstop for a whole summer till I had it memorized and always in this verse eight I felt like I couldn't breath trying to pronounce each syllable with the fast beat of the song. A lot of people ask me who cares of what does it matter of lists of names in the Bible, but I bet if their name were in it they'd think differently. Or what about how excited a parent gets when their child's name is in the news paper? The cool thing with this genealogy is that it's the kingly line of Christ and should be well known names and stories brought to mind of each king as the believer reads throughout the Old Testament. Kind of like our presidents in the USA, most people know them in order and certain details of many of them. How much more meaningful are the God appointed kings that led to the King of Kings! So don't just skim over these names, but test yourself if you know any of them. Or maybe pick one today to learn about. Matthew Begats song
Thursday, February 19, 2015
Genesis 50
"When Joseph's brothers saw that their father was dead, they said, 'Perhaps Joseph will hate us and may actually repay us for all the evil which we did to him'...And Joseph wept when they spoke to him." vv.15,17
Read chapter 50.
It had been 17 years that Joseph's brothers and father came to live in Egypt (47:28) when Jacob died. 17 years they'd been reunited as a family and saved from the famine to to Joseph's love and mercy and forgiveness of his brothers. Yet 17 years till the brothers finally accepted and realized Joseph's forgiveness. Did they live those 17 years with this fear in their soul thinking things will change once their father dies? I wonder what their friendship looked like all that time. Joseph still live din Egypt's capitol no doubt while the rest of the family in Goshen, so how often did they see and spend time with each other? Joseph doesn't even seem to have known as he weeps when his brothers tell him this message showing this as a sincere confession finally of the weight that'd been on their shoulders so much longer than Joseph's separation from his family and that difficulty. What have you been forgiven for that you still carry on your shoulders and not accepting forgiveness?
Read chapter 50.
It had been 17 years that Joseph's brothers and father came to live in Egypt (47:28) when Jacob died. 17 years they'd been reunited as a family and saved from the famine to to Joseph's love and mercy and forgiveness of his brothers. Yet 17 years till the brothers finally accepted and realized Joseph's forgiveness. Did they live those 17 years with this fear in their soul thinking things will change once their father dies? I wonder what their friendship looked like all that time. Joseph still live din Egypt's capitol no doubt while the rest of the family in Goshen, so how often did they see and spend time with each other? Joseph doesn't even seem to have known as he weeps when his brothers tell him this message showing this as a sincere confession finally of the weight that'd been on their shoulders so much longer than Joseph's separation from his family and that difficulty. What have you been forgiven for that you still carry on your shoulders and not accepting forgiveness?
Wednesday, February 18, 2015
Genesis 49
"The scepter shall not depart from Judah, nor a lawgiver from between his feet, until Shiloh comes; and to him shall be the obedience of the people." v. 10
Read chapter 49.
Here is a prophesy of the coming Messiah- Jesus Christ. It is thru the line of Judah that Jesus is born. Jacob's blessings of his 12 sons are the prophesies about the destines of each tribe. Judah wasn't the perfect son for reason why Jacob or God chose his line. We see in chapter 38 of his turning away from his family and not trusting in the Lord's promises, yet Judah is the brother who selflessly offered himself to save his brother Benjamin, perhaps this is why God chose him and also how the birthright had been taken away from his 3 older brothers. The words scepter and lawgiver refer to the royal line that would come through Judah as we later see King David and Jesus as the King of Kings who is Shiloh- another name for the coming Messiah. This is one of many prophesies of Jesus Christ in Genesis. Where else have you seen one? How have you or can you be like Judah in where you're leading your life based on decisions to make for the Lord?
Read chapter 49.
Here is a prophesy of the coming Messiah- Jesus Christ. It is thru the line of Judah that Jesus is born. Jacob's blessings of his 12 sons are the prophesies about the destines of each tribe. Judah wasn't the perfect son for reason why Jacob or God chose his line. We see in chapter 38 of his turning away from his family and not trusting in the Lord's promises, yet Judah is the brother who selflessly offered himself to save his brother Benjamin, perhaps this is why God chose him and also how the birthright had been taken away from his 3 older brothers. The words scepter and lawgiver refer to the royal line that would come through Judah as we later see King David and Jesus as the King of Kings who is Shiloh- another name for the coming Messiah. This is one of many prophesies of Jesus Christ in Genesis. Where else have you seen one? How have you or can you be like Judah in where you're leading your life based on decisions to make for the Lord?
Tuesday, February 17, 2015
Genesis 48
"And now your two sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, who were born to you in the land of Egypt before I came to you in Egypt, are mine; as Reuben and Simeon, they shall be mine... And Joseph took them both, Ephraim with his right hand toward Israel’s left hand, and Manasseh with his left hand toward Israel’s right hand, and brought them near him. 14 Then Israel stretched out his right hand and laid it on Ephraim’s head, who was the younger, and his left hand on Manasseh’s head, guiding his hands knowingly, for Manasseh was the firstborn...Moreover I have given to you one portion above your brothers, which I took from the hand of the Amorite with my sword and my bow." vv.5, 13, 14, 22
Read chapter 48.
Ephraim is the younger brother and Manasseh the older, firstborn of Joseph. Just like Jacob and Esau, the younger gets the blessing as the firstborn. This wasn't because Jacob couldn't see and blessed the wrong son, but did it "knowingly" as we see his hands crisscross. He must have had a word from God to do so to do it knowingly and mentioned in Hebrews 11:21 that he did so by faith. Even before the blessing Jacob says their names in reverse order saying the younger brother first, already knowing the plans of the Lord. This is the portion Joseph gets above his brothers in that his sons are blessed on the same level as the 12 brothers and counted with their uncles as founders of the 12 tribes of Israel. How great a blessing to to be greater than what expected! How have you seen circumstances go a way you didn't expect and turn out to be a greater blessing than you'd thought?
Read chapter 48.
Ephraim is the younger brother and Manasseh the older, firstborn of Joseph. Just like Jacob and Esau, the younger gets the blessing as the firstborn. This wasn't because Jacob couldn't see and blessed the wrong son, but did it "knowingly" as we see his hands crisscross. He must have had a word from God to do so to do it knowingly and mentioned in Hebrews 11:21 that he did so by faith. Even before the blessing Jacob says their names in reverse order saying the younger brother first, already knowing the plans of the Lord. This is the portion Joseph gets above his brothers in that his sons are blessed on the same level as the 12 brothers and counted with their uncles as founders of the 12 tribes of Israel. How great a blessing to to be greater than what expected! How have you seen circumstances go a way you didn't expect and turn out to be a greater blessing than you'd thought?
Monday, February 16, 2015
Genesis 47
"Then Joseph said to the people, 'Indeed I have bought you and your land this day for Pharaoh. Look, here is seed for you and you shall sow the land...four fits shall be your own... you shall give one fifth to Pharaoh..so they said, ' You have saved our lives...we will be Pharaoh's servants." vv.23-25
Read chapter 47.
The people's money ran out yet the famine was still severe and they had no other way to get food. So the land becomes possession of the state and a tax is put in place, 20% of their harvest is to go to the state. Talk about high property tax! With this the people are most grateful because their lives are saved and won't die of starvation. They commit to being Pharaohs's servants so long as they're provided for. With Joseph's godly wisdom and direction, this doesn't seem like a scheme of the government just to become rich, but to provide for the people and sustain a government and the Egyptian nation. We don't have God appointed leaders in governments today, yet many governments practice were put in place because of the Bible to take after. What the government does with the tax money can be both good and evil. Oh how we cry out for God's government, His Kingdom, would rule the whole earth! What do you think of taxes and government responsibilities?
Read chapter 47.
The people's money ran out yet the famine was still severe and they had no other way to get food. So the land becomes possession of the state and a tax is put in place, 20% of their harvest is to go to the state. Talk about high property tax! With this the people are most grateful because their lives are saved and won't die of starvation. They commit to being Pharaohs's servants so long as they're provided for. With Joseph's godly wisdom and direction, this doesn't seem like a scheme of the government just to become rich, but to provide for the people and sustain a government and the Egyptian nation. We don't have God appointed leaders in governments today, yet many governments practice were put in place because of the Bible to take after. What the government does with the tax money can be both good and evil. Oh how we cry out for God's government, His Kingdom, would rule the whole earth! What do you think of taxes and government responsibilities?
Sunday, February 15, 2015
Genesis 46
"...All the persons of the house of Jacob who went to Egypt were seventy...and they came to the land of Goshen...that you may dwell in the land of Goshen; for every shepherd is an abomination the Egyptians." vv. 27,28,34
Read chapter 46.
So Jacob and his family are led out of the promised land of Canaan to Egypt. I'lll be 400 years till they head back. Weird it seem that Joseph would have his family continue in being shepherds when it mentions shepherds being an abomination to Egyptians. Yet this is important to preserve the one of Israel as a nation and not fall into influence and customs of Egypt as many in the family had already turned to the ways of Canaanites when living there and taking wives among Canaan. The word abomination is a very strong word of revulsion and would the be sure Egyptians wouldn't even want to mix even if Israel did. This area of Goshen helps to preserve and grow Israel as a nation and it's identity as God's people. Sometimes being the outcast or the minority is a good thing in the long run. How can your life be set apart for God while living among the word of nonbelievers? What makes it hard? What makes it worth it?
Read chapter 46.
So Jacob and his family are led out of the promised land of Canaan to Egypt. I'lll be 400 years till they head back. Weird it seem that Joseph would have his family continue in being shepherds when it mentions shepherds being an abomination to Egyptians. Yet this is important to preserve the one of Israel as a nation and not fall into influence and customs of Egypt as many in the family had already turned to the ways of Canaanites when living there and taking wives among Canaan. The word abomination is a very strong word of revulsion and would the be sure Egyptians wouldn't even want to mix even if Israel did. This area of Goshen helps to preserve and grow Israel as a nation and it's identity as God's people. Sometimes being the outcast or the minority is a good thing in the long run. How can your life be set apart for God while living among the word of nonbelievers? What makes it hard? What makes it worth it?
Saturday, February 14, 2015
Genesis 45
"And Joseph said to his brothers, “Please come near to me.” So they came near. Then he said: “I am Joseph your brother, whom you sold into Egypt. But now, do not therefore be grieved or angry with yourselves because you sold me here; for God sent me before you to preserve life." vv.4-5
Read chapter 45.
Wow, if all of my life's troubles I could realize were for the purpose of preserving life. How humble we see Joseph here. He could have easily killed his brothers or make life miserable for them with the power he had, but he didn't. He used his power to glorify God and be used by Him for His plans and not his own. "This sing a story of rags to riches but how the Lord created a nation out of a troubled family" (NKJV study notes). We don't hear much of the brothers reactions other than believing it really was Joseph and how they were embraced with hugs and kisses by him. Can you imagine their awe, their regret in their souls, their joy, their minds running a thousand kilometers a second trying to grasp what's happened? Surely this reunion of the 12 brothers binds them to honor God and follow Him and create a people after God's goodness, mercy, way. Another picture of ultimate forgiveness and display of God's grace! How have you preserved life in someone by having God's grace and understanding of God's greater plan? Or how can you apply that to something in your life now?
Read chapter 45.
Wow, if all of my life's troubles I could realize were for the purpose of preserving life. How humble we see Joseph here. He could have easily killed his brothers or make life miserable for them with the power he had, but he didn't. He used his power to glorify God and be used by Him for His plans and not his own. "This sing a story of rags to riches but how the Lord created a nation out of a troubled family" (NKJV study notes). We don't hear much of the brothers reactions other than believing it really was Joseph and how they were embraced with hugs and kisses by him. Can you imagine their awe, their regret in their souls, their joy, their minds running a thousand kilometers a second trying to grasp what's happened? Surely this reunion of the 12 brothers binds them to honor God and follow Him and create a people after God's goodness, mercy, way. Another picture of ultimate forgiveness and display of God's grace! How have you preserved life in someone by having God's grace and understanding of God's greater plan? Or how can you apply that to something in your life now?
Friday, February 13, 2015
Genesis 44
"Also put my cup, the silver cup, in the mouth of the sack of the youngest, and his grain money.” So he did according to the word that Joseph had spoken...With whomever of your servants it is found, let him die, and we also will be my lord’s slaves.” vv.2,9
Read chapter 44.
Joseph continues to test the character of his brothers by scheming this plan of getting Benjamin, the youngest brother, caught with the punishment of death. They pass the test as Judah again stands in the place of Benjamin just as he told his father Jacob. Sometimes it's easy to make an oath or vow, but then when ia situation arises many are quick to respond otherwise. Yet the brothers had changed and become more steadfast in their commitments, obeying their father and ultimately following the will of God. I have as a supervisor wanted to put to test my employees without them knowing it to see their true service and also check myself as to how I'd act/respond and practice what I preach. When have you been put to the test without having known and realized you passed? And when you've failed?
Read chapter 44.
Joseph continues to test the character of his brothers by scheming this plan of getting Benjamin, the youngest brother, caught with the punishment of death. They pass the test as Judah again stands in the place of Benjamin just as he told his father Jacob. Sometimes it's easy to make an oath or vow, but then when ia situation arises many are quick to respond otherwise. Yet the brothers had changed and become more steadfast in their commitments, obeying their father and ultimately following the will of God. I have as a supervisor wanted to put to test my employees without them knowing it to see their true service and also check myself as to how I'd act/respond and practice what I preach. When have you been put to the test without having known and realized you passed? And when you've failed?
Thursday, February 12, 2015
Genesis 43
"Then Judah said to Israel his father, “Send the lad with me, and we will arise and go, that we may live and not die, both we and you and also our little ones. 9 I myself will be surety for him; from my hand you shall require him. If I do not bring him back to you and set him before you, then let me bear the blame forever." vv.8-9
Read chapter 43.
Simeon is in jail in Egypt while his brothers and father are lingering at home trying to survive the famine. Israel didn't want to risk Benjamin, his other son of Rachel, to get Simeon out of jail and more provisions during the famine. It's hard to see a father have favorites of choosing one son over the rest, but this doesn't cause jealousy in the brothers as it did before with Joesph. Now they seem to care of their father's well-being and their brothers and their families as well. Judah has a tremendous change. We saw in 37:26 that it was his idea to sell Joseph as a slave and then in 38:1 that he departed from his brothers and takes friend and family of Canaan that were enemies of Israel. Yet now we not only see him back with his family but taking on the burden, guilt and blame if Benjamin is not brought back. Blame is the Hebrew word for sin also and what a picture of Christ this is of making on the sin. Have you ever sacrificed yourself for you your family or someone else? Have you ever been like Israel, stubborn with something so precious to you despite the welfare of others?
Read chapter 43.
Simeon is in jail in Egypt while his brothers and father are lingering at home trying to survive the famine. Israel didn't want to risk Benjamin, his other son of Rachel, to get Simeon out of jail and more provisions during the famine. It's hard to see a father have favorites of choosing one son over the rest, but this doesn't cause jealousy in the brothers as it did before with Joesph. Now they seem to care of their father's well-being and their brothers and their families as well. Judah has a tremendous change. We saw in 37:26 that it was his idea to sell Joseph as a slave and then in 38:1 that he departed from his brothers and takes friend and family of Canaan that were enemies of Israel. Yet now we not only see him back with his family but taking on the burden, guilt and blame if Benjamin is not brought back. Blame is the Hebrew word for sin also and what a picture of Christ this is of making on the sin. Have you ever sacrificed yourself for you your family or someone else? Have you ever been like Israel, stubborn with something so precious to you despite the welfare of others?
Wednesday, February 11, 2015
Genesis 42
"Then Joseph remembered the dreams which he had dreamed about them, and said to them, “You are spies! You have come to see the nakedness of the land!” v. 9
Read chapter 42.
Joseph remembers the dreams he had when he was 17 years old, of his brothers bowing down to him (chapter 37). Seems like once he realizes God's truth come true his pent up feelings toward his brother diminishes, his heart softens and forgives them and realizes God's greater working. Possibly he decided to call them spies to see how'd they act under pressure and see if they had changed from when they were younger. I wonder after these twenty plus years (41:46,53) since Joseph had been living in Egypt made him doubt his dreams from God when he was a kid? Or possibly even forget? No doubt he still believed in the One True God as we see Joseph proclaim Him before so many others in Egypt. I like the word "remembered" and how important it is for us to remember God's truths in His word and remember them and bring them to mind in whatever situations we're in. What are some truths you want/need to remember more often? When have you realized God's greater working despite difficulties or long awaiting assurance?
Tuesday, February 10, 2015
Genesis 41
"Then Pharaoh said to Joseph, “Inasmuch as God has shown you all this, there is no one as discerning and wise as you. You shall be over my house, and all my people shall be ruled according to your word; only in regard to the throne will I be greater than you.” vv.39-40
Read chapter 41.
What a complement and honor to receive from the Pharaoh! This discernment and wisdom of Pharaoh's dream and how to act according to it is only from the Lord. Pharaoh can see that too. Just as Potipher saw that God was with Joseph and made him prosper, so Pharaoh sees that God is with Joseph and give him charge of everything but the thrown. Joseph wasn't quiet about God either, but gave Him the glory and esteem, even though it wasn't a "pretty" message. How often do people only focus on the happy/good things and don't associate God when He makes judgments that seem harsh to us or that it would scare someone away from Him?
Read chapter 41.
What a complement and honor to receive from the Pharaoh! This discernment and wisdom of Pharaoh's dream and how to act according to it is only from the Lord. Pharaoh can see that too. Just as Potipher saw that God was with Joseph and made him prosper, so Pharaoh sees that God is with Joseph and give him charge of everything but the thrown. Joseph wasn't quiet about God either, but gave Him the glory and esteem, even though it wasn't a "pretty" message. How often do people only focus on the happy/good things and don't associate God when He makes judgments that seem harsh to us or that it would scare someone away from Him?
Monday, February 9, 2015
Genesis 40
"And they said to him, “We each have had a dream, and there is no interpreter of it.” So Joseph said to them, “Do not interpretations belong to God? Tell them to me, please.” v.8
Read chapter 40.
These weren't just ordinary dreams, but ones with symbols that demanded interpretation. Joseph again declares the righteousness of God to them in response to the Baker and Butler. Joseph had dreams with symbols from God when he was younger (Genesis 37) and understood their meaning, so too acted right away on interpreting their dreams showing that God gave Him that wisdom. Why God gave tees men these dreams? Ultimately to work His plan for Joseph, being known as the interpreter of dreams of the Ture God. The Butler doesn't remember Joseph when he gets out of prison, but will bring him to mind later. A lot of things we try to forget when we're in a horrible situation, like this Buttler forgetting Joseph despite the promise given at the time. What are God's good workings/graces that you've forgotten when you're in difficulties?
Sunday, February 8, 2015
Genesis 39
"But he refused and said to his master’s wife, “Look, my master does not know what is with me in the house, and he has committed all that he has to my hand." v.8
Read chapter 39.
God was with Joseph and made him successful no matter where he was (a slave and in prison in this chapter alone); he knew it and so did those around him, namely Potipher and the keeper of the prison. Because of the Lord's presence and goodness, this caused Joseph to have the highest standard, even refusing sex and sharing with her the righteousness of the True God. Sexual temptations seem to be the hardest sins for man as we see throughout the Bible and the horrifying sexual offensives today throughout the whole world. Even in my own life, sexual things have been a battle. Yet this overwhelming presence of God and His goodness helped Joseph not give way to this and same can be true to us too. Psalm 119:9 "How can a young man cleans his way? By taking heed according to your word." Unfortunately, Potipher's wife didn't know the True God and schemes to make herself look like the victim and we don't even see Joseph fight back.
Read chapter 39.
God was with Joseph and made him successful no matter where he was (a slave and in prison in this chapter alone); he knew it and so did those around him, namely Potipher and the keeper of the prison. Because of the Lord's presence and goodness, this caused Joseph to have the highest standard, even refusing sex and sharing with her the righteousness of the True God. Sexual temptations seem to be the hardest sins for man as we see throughout the Bible and the horrifying sexual offensives today throughout the whole world. Even in my own life, sexual things have been a battle. Yet this overwhelming presence of God and His goodness helped Joseph not give way to this and same can be true to us too. Psalm 119:9 "How can a young man cleans his way? By taking heed according to your word." Unfortunately, Potipher's wife didn't know the True God and schemes to make herself look like the victim and we don't even see Joseph fight back.
Saturday, February 7, 2015
Genesis 38
"Then Judah said to Tamar his daughter-in-law, “Remain a widow in your father’s house till my son Shelah is grown.” For he said, “Lest he also die like his brothers.” And Tamar went and dwelt in her father’s house...So Judah acknowledged them and said, “She has been more righteous than I, because I did not give her to Shelah my son.” And he never knew her again." vv.11,26
Read chapter 38.
Tamar was a Canaanite and was not a nation that Israel was suppose to mix with, yet Judah goes and not only seeks and makes friends with them but takes one to be his wife and then his son's wives. Judah seems to make it Tamar's fault that his sons died when it was the Lord's anger and judgment towards them for their cause of death. God has compassion on Tamar for Judah's sins, and despite playing the harlot and sleeping with her father-in-law, this ultimately played the role to the lineage of Jesus Christ. "Judah, one of the heirs of the everlasting covenant with the Living God, was put to shame by a Canaanite woman" (NKJV study notes). Tamar showed faith of his promise despite her origins. God had mercy on Judah and a use for Tamar. A use a man would never make, but a use by God to bring the Messiah and shame man's ways. How have you felt shamed by your actions from a non-believer?
Read chapter 38.
Tamar was a Canaanite and was not a nation that Israel was suppose to mix with, yet Judah goes and not only seeks and makes friends with them but takes one to be his wife and then his son's wives. Judah seems to make it Tamar's fault that his sons died when it was the Lord's anger and judgment towards them for their cause of death. God has compassion on Tamar for Judah's sins, and despite playing the harlot and sleeping with her father-in-law, this ultimately played the role to the lineage of Jesus Christ. "Judah, one of the heirs of the everlasting covenant with the Living God, was put to shame by a Canaanite woman" (NKJV study notes). Tamar showed faith of his promise despite her origins. God had mercy on Judah and a use for Tamar. A use a man would never make, but a use by God to bring the Messiah and shame man's ways. How have you felt shamed by your actions from a non-believer?
Genesis 37
"But Reuben heard it, and he delivered him out of their hands, and said, “Let us not kill him”...Then Reuben returned to the pit, and indeed Joseph was not in the pit; and he tore his clothes...So they took Joseph’s tunic, killed a kid of the goats, and dipped the tunic in the blood." vv.21,29,31
Read chapter 37.
Rueben was the oldest of the twelve brothers and would be held responsible, therefore, more than the rest of his brothers for Joseph's death. Joseph's dreams of his family bowing down to him probably upset Rueben the most being the oldest and assured heir and birthright. He had the most to lose, but he's the only one that fights for Joseph to not be killed by his brothers (later Judah speaks up too). He still had to be careful and scheme how he'd free Joseph and bring him back to his father, yet that plan fell through. Instead of telling his father the truth he covers up with a lie for him and his brothers. So ultimately did he do the right thing? Was it risking his own life against his brothers? Fear of his father's response? Hard on himself for not acting more before for Joseph? He lives with regret for a long time. How has scheming laid weight on you? Hurt others?
Read chapter 37.
Rueben was the oldest of the twelve brothers and would be held responsible, therefore, more than the rest of his brothers for Joseph's death. Joseph's dreams of his family bowing down to him probably upset Rueben the most being the oldest and assured heir and birthright. He had the most to lose, but he's the only one that fights for Joseph to not be killed by his brothers (later Judah speaks up too). He still had to be careful and scheme how he'd free Joseph and bring him back to his father, yet that plan fell through. Instead of telling his father the truth he covers up with a lie for him and his brothers. So ultimately did he do the right thing? Was it risking his own life against his brothers? Fear of his father's response? Hard on himself for not acting more before for Joseph? He lives with regret for a long time. How has scheming laid weight on you? Hurt others?
Genesis 36
"Now Timna was the concubine of Eliphaz, Esau’s son, and she bore Amalek to Eliphaz. These were the sons of Adah, Esau’s wife." v.12
Read chapter 36.
In this chapter we have the genealogy of Esau, Jacob's twin brother. Although God's promise would be through Jacob, He still blessed Esau by making him into a great nation. Esau married wives from Canaan which displeased his parents probably of fear of turning from the Living God to their idols. From Esau's children through these wives we see the beginnings of nation stat later become huge enemies of Israel. A great one being the Amalekites from this man Amalek, grandson of Esau. He is noted as a chief. We see Amalekites before Esau was born in chapter 14, so perhaps he was named after them and took over these centuries later. Oh how family can change all based on the god you worship. If it's not the True Living God Almighty then you'll spend your life fighting against Him. No other gods butt heads because they are nothing; only with the Creator God. How have you seen families affected because of serving/believing different gods?
Read chapter 36.
In this chapter we have the genealogy of Esau, Jacob's twin brother. Although God's promise would be through Jacob, He still blessed Esau by making him into a great nation. Esau married wives from Canaan which displeased his parents probably of fear of turning from the Living God to their idols. From Esau's children through these wives we see the beginnings of nation stat later become huge enemies of Israel. A great one being the Amalekites from this man Amalek, grandson of Esau. He is noted as a chief. We see Amalekites before Esau was born in chapter 14, so perhaps he was named after them and took over these centuries later. Oh how family can change all based on the god you worship. If it's not the True Living God Almighty then you'll spend your life fighting against Him. No other gods butt heads because they are nothing; only with the Creator God. How have you seen families affected because of serving/believing different gods?
Genesis 35
"And so it was, as her soul was departing (for she died), that she called his name Ben-Oni; but his father called him Benjamin...And it happened, when Israel dwelt in that land, that Reuben went and lay with Bilhah his father’s concubine; and Israel heard about it." vv.18,22
Read chapter 35.
Rachel dies on their way to the promised land after giving birth to her son. Rachel is the only main wives in Genesis that isn't buried with her spouse in the cave at Mamre with all the other patriarchs, we later see that Leah is, as she was Jacob's first wife. Jacob calls this babe Benjamin meaning "son of my right hand." This could possibly have upset or caused jealousy of Rueben and why we see him commit this offense that he did by sleeping with one of his father's wives (brother's mom). Rueben being the first born would get the birthright and could've felt threatened by Benjamin so tried to take matters into his own hands by this act of dominance. Ultimately this led to why he lost the birthright. When have you seen this fight for power, especially in families?
Read chapter 35.
Rachel dies on their way to the promised land after giving birth to her son. Rachel is the only main wives in Genesis that isn't buried with her spouse in the cave at Mamre with all the other patriarchs, we later see that Leah is, as she was Jacob's first wife. Jacob calls this babe Benjamin meaning "son of my right hand." This could possibly have upset or caused jealousy of Rueben and why we see him commit this offense that he did by sleeping with one of his father's wives (brother's mom). Rueben being the first born would get the birthright and could've felt threatened by Benjamin so tried to take matters into his own hands by this act of dominance. Ultimately this led to why he lost the birthright. When have you seen this fight for power, especially in families?
Genesis 34
"But the sons of Jacob answered Shechem and Hamor his father, and spoke deceitfully, because he had defiled Dinah their sister. And they said to them, “We cannot do this thing, to give our sister to one who is uncircumcised, for that would be a reproach to us. But on this condition we will consent to you: If you will become as we are, if every male of you is circumcised" vv.13-15
Read chapter 34.
Hateful revenge has more consequenses than you think. Dinah's brothers were so mad for what Shechem did to their sister they pay back the offense not only on Shechem but on the whole city. What would've been a better judgment in response to this? Even their response was using this symbol of circumcision that made them a holy nation and used it to deceive and as a weapon to be able to kill all the men from being weak to fight. Where was Jacob during this? What was his response to solve this matter? We only see him upset at his sons after the revenge took place. The law wasn't in place yet to know what judgments were to be made on matters such as these, but prayer and seeking God's counsel surly would've been shown as God was speaking directly to Jacob at this time. How have you seen Godly symbols, traditions, etc be used deceitfully only to cause hurt and hatred?
Read chapter 34.
Hateful revenge has more consequenses than you think. Dinah's brothers were so mad for what Shechem did to their sister they pay back the offense not only on Shechem but on the whole city. What would've been a better judgment in response to this? Even their response was using this symbol of circumcision that made them a holy nation and used it to deceive and as a weapon to be able to kill all the men from being weak to fight. Where was Jacob during this? What was his response to solve this matter? We only see him upset at his sons after the revenge took place. The law wasn't in place yet to know what judgments were to be made on matters such as these, but prayer and seeking God's counsel surly would've been shown as God was speaking directly to Jacob at this time. How have you seen Godly symbols, traditions, etc be used deceitfully only to cause hurt and hatred?
Genesis 33
"But Esau ran to meet him, and embraced him, and fell on his neck and kissed him, and they wept." v.4
Read chapter 33.
Instead of Esau's revenge on his brother Jacob, Esau welcomed him with love and joy. So many hearts had past since they deceitful incident and, although probably not forgotten, he was forgiven. Jacob's fear of meeting his brother for the first time led him to humble himself and offer a huge gift to him in hopes to earn forgiveness. Yet what we see here with Esau's encounter, none of that mattered; what was missed most was that brotherly love, family, friend. I love the picture of Esau running out to Jacob and embracing him with hugs and kisses. I was gone from my dog for 12 days and when I came back she knocked me to the ground smothering me with dog kisses and jumping for excitement. I felt so love sand that was just a dog. Humans should do that more often with our real feelings inside. What is holding you back from forgiving or asking for forgiveness? When have you felt this joy of love, either shown you or given to someone?
Read chapter 33.
Instead of Esau's revenge on his brother Jacob, Esau welcomed him with love and joy. So many hearts had past since they deceitful incident and, although probably not forgotten, he was forgiven. Jacob's fear of meeting his brother for the first time led him to humble himself and offer a huge gift to him in hopes to earn forgiveness. Yet what we see here with Esau's encounter, none of that mattered; what was missed most was that brotherly love, family, friend. I love the picture of Esau running out to Jacob and embracing him with hugs and kisses. I was gone from my dog for 12 days and when I came back she knocked me to the ground smothering me with dog kisses and jumping for excitement. I felt so love sand that was just a dog. Humans should do that more often with our real feelings inside. What is holding you back from forgiving or asking for forgiveness? When have you felt this joy of love, either shown you or given to someone?
Sunday, February 1, 2015
Genesis 32
"Then Jacob was left alone; and a Man wrestled with him until the breaking of day...So Jacob called the name of the place Peniel: “For I have seen God face to face, and my life is preserved.” vv.24,30
Read chapter 32.
It seems so random that this man wrestled with Jacob as him and his household are on their way to meet Esau, but that's because this isn't just a man but God. This man was the preincarnate Jesus Christ as we know God in the flew is Jesus (John 1), the image of the invisible God (Col. 1). Jacob wrestled with Jesus. Why did He come down to wrestle with him? "Jacob had been struggling all his life; even at the moment of his birth with Esau, later he struggled with Laban. Yet right before meeting Esau, Jacob had the stubble of his life! He who once grasped his brothers heal, now clang to the bodily form of the living God" (NKJV study bible notes). God blesses Jacob and gives him the new name Israel because he'd prevailed struggling with both God and men. May we have the same attitude when we're struggling with men and God that we'd prevail and God always wins! What wrestling with man and/or God are you struggling with?
Read chapter 32.
It seems so random that this man wrestled with Jacob as him and his household are on their way to meet Esau, but that's because this isn't just a man but God. This man was the preincarnate Jesus Christ as we know God in the flew is Jesus (John 1), the image of the invisible God (Col. 1). Jacob wrestled with Jesus. Why did He come down to wrestle with him? "Jacob had been struggling all his life; even at the moment of his birth with Esau, later he struggled with Laban. Yet right before meeting Esau, Jacob had the stubble of his life! He who once grasped his brothers heal, now clang to the bodily form of the living God" (NKJV study bible notes). God blesses Jacob and gives him the new name Israel because he'd prevailed struggling with both God and men. May we have the same attitude when we're struggling with men and God that we'd prevail and God always wins! What wrestling with man and/or God are you struggling with?
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