You Shall Be Holy, For I Am Holy

"For you are a people holy to the LORD your God. Out of all the peoples on the face of the earth, the LORD has chosen you to be his treasured possession."  -Deuteronomy 14:2

Israel was required to be a holy people. The reason being that God (the God of Israel), is a holy God (Leviticus 19:2). This basic, and unique fact set them apart from everyone else.

God knows us too well, however. He knows how easily man can be misguided. The band-wagon of idolatry and false doctrine always has room for one more to climb aboard.

Special laws and customs were bestowed upon the nation to educate them on the importance of separation from the corruption of the world and the flesh; and, instead, devoting themselves to God in all respects.

Those O.T. laws and customs were mere shadows of the coming of Jesus. Now, these laws have been transferred to Christ for our benefit and . He is all of these things bundled in a single package (Colossians 2:17).

The Israelites, like us, were prone to sudden or abrupt reversals of direction in their thinking. Many flip-flop from one fad to another, changing affiliations often as they change their socks  God couldn't have this in a "chosen people." It just wouldn't work.

He had to know that he could count on their complete devotion to Him, and their willingness to obey without question. Thus, the laws and customs served as tangible guidelines to by which to live.

God wants us to be holy, too. Being holy requires us to not only be consecrated (become a living sacrifice) to his honor, but adapted to his will and nature, as well.

Today, this follows with Jesus. Whereas, we were once sanctified by the shadows and types in the O.T., we are now sanctified (made holy) by the truth (John 17:17; Titus 2:14).

Scripture: Isaiah 6:3; Leviticus 11:45; Psalm 22:3; Psalm 96:9; Psalm 99:5

Prayer: Who is like You, O LORD? You are majestic in holiness, awe-inspiring in Your actions, and marvelous works. I give my heartfelt praises to You, always, amen.

Stay blessed,

Becky Lynn

A World Under the Oppression of Sin

"The Lord works righteousness and justice for all who are oppressed."  - Psalm 103:6

Our world is oppressed by sin. If you have any doubts about this, I ask you to check any reliable, daily news source. Then go to any part of the globe and you will see glaring evidence of this.

There are many things that we might be able to prevent or avoid altogether. Unfortunately, sin isn't one of these. Sin is part of our DNA. "Surely I was sinful at birth, sinful from the time my mother conceived me" (Psalm 51:5).

History is awash with examples of the hurt we inflict upon each other because of our sinful nature. Some will argue that it is our violent nature which drives us to do these things (Jeremiah 22:17).

This is partly true. The cause of violence, anger, hate, prejudice, tyranny, brutality, pain, anguish, persecution, abuse, and and other forms of oppression can be traced back to a common source, and that is sin.

Oppression is defined as prolonged cruel or unjust treatment, or control. It is a hideous and grotesque cousin of sin. Sin seeks out those who are easily seduced and ensnared by power and greed, then dominates them.

These two work hand in hand to destroy all that is good and loving in the world. Together they thrive on disorder, confusion, and turmoil; receiving their orders from the ever prowling devil himself (1 Peter 5:8).

There is only one way to cripple oppression, and that is through Jesus Christ, Our Lord and Savior. "Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death" (Romans 8:2).

The message of Jesus Christ is needed today more than ever. Only by the strength of his word, and our faith in the power of the cross can we curb oppression and instead spread love and hope in the world (Romans 6:18).

Scripture: Isaiah 41:10; Deuteronomy 26:7; Jeremiah 22:3; 1 John 5:18; Ephesians 6:12

Prayer: Dear Lord, You are my refuge and strength in times of trouble. I bless Your holy name forever, amen.

Bless you,

Brielle

Does Sin Make You Sick?...Literally??

"Afflictions cannot hurt us without our own impatience."  - Joseph Hall

Few things make one think more about his or her own life than when confronted with a major health issue or tragedy. More than battling a cold, or misplacing a favorite pair of earrings, but something truly severe.

During times of extreme distress, even devout Christians, may crack and crumble under the pressure of the circumstances that they have been dealt. And instead of first turning toward heaven for answers, they blame themselves.

Even David, king of Israel was not immune to doing this. In Psalm 38, he wrestled with this exact matter. He was suffering from an unspecified ailment of which he blamed its cause on sin, and God.

We see David criticize, what he perceived as, God's anger at him and strongly voice his disapproval against his malady. Even so, the thought of God being angry with his soul made him cry.

As we might do, David concludes in his mind that his sin is the main generator of all his suffering, causing him to struggle with this self-imposed burden of guilt (sin). We see how sin can make one sick. But does it really..?

In David's case, he thought his affliction was provoked by sin; that it was rooted in God's displeasure with him. To be fair, when we're struggling with sickness or tragedy, it's easy to misinterpret the reasons. (Jeremiah 29:11)

Trials can occur equally to the good and the bad, irregardless. But, there may be some instances where sinful behavior might be to blame for sickness due to the stress, anxiety, and guilt produced by inappropriate actions on our part.

There really is no reason for us to think that a certain sin, or even God's anger, is the source of our health problems. No more so than thinking you will grow a watermelon in your stomach if you swallow a watermelon seed! (Psalm 86:15)

The positive out of all this is that, if anything, it can help to remind us about all the sin in our lives. Now, God, at his own choosing, and at certain times, may purposely permit sickness in order to fulfill His ultimate aim. (Romans 8:18)

However, we shouldn't beat ourselves up by thinking that some sin, or another is to blame for an illness, or adversity in our lives. Instead, we should find comfort in the fact that God doesn't use our sin as an excuse for infirmity and sadness.

"Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name! Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits, who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit"  -Psalm 103:1-4 (ESV)

Scripture: Jeremiah 17:14; Psalm 30:2; 2 Corinthians 13:9; Isaiah 41:10; Psalm 34:19

Prayer: Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, amen.  -2 Corinthians 1:3-4 (ESV)

May God lead your path,

Lee

God's Mercy Is Shown (Conclusion)

"God is more willing to pardon than to punish. Mercy does more multiply in Him than sin in us. Mercy is His nature."  - Thomas Watson

As we have seen, the people of Israel had been growing impatient and unhappy with Moses. Their escape from an abusive security under Pharaoh's rule in Egypt, to an uncertain future out in the desert, was taking its toll.

They were now several weeks out of Egypt, running out of provisions, and low on hope. Understandably, they were tired, hungry, and a little scared. Israel was ready to throw in the towel, and return home.

They may have all but given up on Moses at this point, but God hadn't given up on them. He could have done away with this whiny, complaining, ungrateful, rabble with just a snap of his fingers.

But, thankfully God doesn't work this way, or we'd all be in big trouble! Like a loving, kind, and merciful Father, God hears the cries, and yes, grievances, of His children. "I have heard the murmurings of the children of Israel" (Exodus 16:12).

Sometimes, we too may feel as though God could care less about our situation or concerns. But, nothing could be further from the truth. Help is coming, you can count on it. " I will sustain you and I will rescue you"  (Isaiah 46:4).

God took notice of Israel's condition and acted on it. We never have to worry. He knows just what we need, when we need it. "O Lord, my every desire is before You; my groaning is not hidden from You" (Psalm 38:9).

They feared starving to death, so God promised Moses that He would supply food for them. He provided the people with manna (bread) and quail (meat); more than enough to fill their needs (Exodus 16:8, 9). 

This served a dual purpose. First, to demonstrate his regard for, and sympathy toward, them Secondly, God wanted to see whether Israel would trust in, and be faithful to, Him (Exodus 16:12).

We're not so different from those Israelites. When we begin our walk of faith, our hopes and spirits are riding high. Then the initial enthusiasm may start to fizzle out after a while. Frustration, confusion, even anger, may set in.

However, instead of walking away from God, we should be running towards Him. Know that He truly loves us, and would never hurt us. If we are to walk with Him though, we cannot be fickle or wavering. We must trust in His plans for us.

Sure, it can be scary to let go of the familiar and leap out into the unknown. That's why God works with us, step by step, one day at a time. And one day, we too will reach the promised land (Jeremiah 17:7).

Scripture: Hebrews 4:16; James 2:13; Micah 7:18; Deuteronomy 4:31; Romans 9:15

Prayer: Remember your mercy, O Lord, and your steadfast love, for they have been from of old. Remember not the sins of my youth or my transgressions; according to your steadfast love remember me, for the sake of your goodness, O Lord! - Psalm 25:6-7 (ESV)

Blessings always, 

Cyndy

Jesus Still Amazes!

"The people were amazed at his teaching, because he taught them as one who had authority, not as the teachers of the law."  - Mark 1:22

How long has it been since something really amazed you? The collapse of the Soviet Union, the taking down of the Berlin Wall, the World Wide Web, cell phones, then smart phones were also quite amazing, and still are today.

Nowadays, it really has to be something truly amazing to knock us off our feet. Thanks to modern science and technology, amazing seems to be almost commonplace; even mundane.

Early in N.T. times, the teachings within the synagogues could have been perceived as  having grown routine and ordinary. But, that was all about to change, and in a big way.

I will use the Gospel of Mark to illustrate this. After Jesus' baptism (Mark 1:9-11), his time being tempted by Satan in the desert (Mark 1:12-13), and calling of the first disciples (Mark 1:14-20), he was ready to go. 

From Galilee, Jesus and his small band of disciples traveled to Capernaum. There he stopped to teach in a synagogue on the Sabbath. He amazed the people because "he taught them as one who had authority, not as the teachers of the law" (Mark 1:22).

But it wasn't just his teaching that caught their attention. Jesus also expelled an evil spirit from a man there (Mark 1: 23-26). The people were amazed about this "new teaching."

From his teaching and healing, to driving out demons, Jesus never stopped amazing the people in and around Galilee. There was nothing like Jesus before, or since. Even today, Jesus continues to amaze us thanks to his teachings and example. 

And though the word "amazing" may not hold the same wow-factor today that it once did, there can be no doubt that the life and minstry of Jesus Christ is right at the top of the "amazing" list.

For a brief period of time, the Only Begotten Son of God actually walked here among us on earth. And though he is but temporarily gone, he promised to return for all of his believers. And on that day...well, what else can I say, but "Amazing!"

Scripture: 1 Timothy 2:5; John 3:16; John 1:14; Mark 9:23; John 21:25 

Prayer:  If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.  -Romans 10:9

God bless you always,

Julie

Our Capacities Put to Good Use

"If others don't use their gifts, you get cheated, and if you don't use your gifts, they get cheated."- Rick Warren

Sometimes, depending on the circumstances, people are willing to contribute to say, a "common cause." History shows many instances of this. One excellent example occurs during the building of the tabernacle in the Book of Exodus.

Israel had some problems with following God. They were too wishy-washy in their belief, and Moses was always working hard to keep them on track. Then God decided to make it easier for them to recognize and worship him.

He thought that by lowering himself to earth, on a limited basis, this would help to strengthen and reinforce their belief in Him along their journey. And what better place than a traveling worship center, better known as the tabernacle (Exodus 35).

Thus, Moses received instructions from God for building the tabernacle (Exodus 25: 8, 9, 40). There was one problem. He couldn't build it by himself, he needed help and lots of it!

There were many details that needed attention. The big question was whether Israel was up to the task. There was no room for grumbling and foot-dragging here. It would require a community effort if it was going to work (Colossians 3:23-24).

And they pulled it off! From their earliest offerings to the tabernacle, its construction, and final blessing, they worked together diligently as a cohesive unit to see it through to completion (Exodus 35-40).

Many individuals contributed in one way or another to make the tabernacle become a reality. And although only Moses knew what the completed tabernacle was to eventually look like, Israel placed their faith in what God had told him and complied.

Every believer has a task given to him by God. There are many different ways to serve Him. No matter how big or small the job, every hand is crucial. Don't ever think of yourself as just another cog in God's service.

Serving God falls under many titles. Keep in mind, though, it isn't the job title or responsibility that makes us valuable to Him. It's what we do with what He has given us, and how well we performed our duties (1 Peter 4:10).

Scripture: Romans 12:6-8; Ephesians 2:10; Matthew 25:15; James 1:17; 1 Corinthians 16:14

Prayer: Dear God, You have provided each with a gift; may we use it to serve You always, and each other, amen.

Joyfully in Christ,

Donna

Video - J. L. Packer, "What is Faith?"

A short lesson with author and Christian theologian J.I. Packer. Brief, but enlightening video about faith. Enjoy!    ~Eve

The Discontent Grows, Part 2

"Let's help people get on board with what God wants to give them, but what we don't want is the process. Everyone wants the product."  - Chip Ingram

Recall how joyous Israel was when they first gathered together and escaped the oppressive hand of Pharaoh. Now, only a little more than a month since, their mood is quite different. Provisions were all but depleted, and they were afraid. ( Exodus 16:2).

We all pass through different trials of varying degrees in our lives. Why some undergo more or less than others is not for us to know, only God knows. But Israel's frustrations were aimed specifically at Moses and Aaron (1 Corinthians 10:10).

How quickly they had forgotten that, not so long ago, with God's help, they avoided a sure death at the Red Sea. Instead, they were preserved by Him. They had forgotten to trust in God's goodness and power of provision.

Blaming Moses for intentionally leading them out of Egypt to starve them to death in the desert was unfair and unjust, to say the least. He had followed God's orders exactly, which were designed to save, not destroy, them.

They lamented about the provisions they had left behind in Egypt. And groan about their current situation, wishing they had instead died there near food (Exodus 16:3); failing to see God had greater plans for them.

In our own lives, there are times when, confronted with challenges, we too longingly desire to go back to happier days. But were they really so? We tend to cherry-pick the best parts of our past, leaving the rotting fruit of it on the ground.

Like the nation Israel here in Exodus, how easily we overlook the times that God helped us, focusing instead on our current woes. God, had a great plan for Israel, and He has a great plan for us, too.

Also, they had forgotten how to provide for themselves back in Egypt. They had grown dependent on Pharaoh for everything, despite their abuse. Now, they were being asked to depend on God, and they didn't yet know how.

In order to appreciate His intentions for us, we must, like a young tree, learn to weather the times of drought, storms, and other harsh conditions in life. Yes, God wants the best for us, but we must show our worthiness first.

Our impatience, ungratefulness, and distrust of God can make it difficult to see all of the good He has done for us. And like Lot's wife, we are tempted to look back at what was, than to fix our eyes on God's will for us going forward (Luke 17:32; Genesis 19:26).

Next Week: God's Mercy Is Shown...

Scripture: Psalm 37:4; Romans 8:28; 1 Peter 5:7; 1 Timothy 6:6-8; Psalm 34:10

Prayer: I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me, amen.  - Philippians 4:12-13 (ESV)

Blessings always, 

Cyndy

Here An Idol...There An Idol...

"Every one of us is, even from his mother's womb, a master craftsman of idols."      - John Calvin

According to Webster's Dictionary, the definition of idolatry is, "the worship of idols or excessive devotion to, or reverence for some person or thing." If you stop and think about it, this covers a pretty wide area of our general society.

This means that we can be idolaters and not even be conscious of it! Think about some "idols" we revere in our own lives, such as our smart phones, television, video games, social media (i.e., Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc.), online shopping, and so forth.

I'm not saying that we shouldn't enjoy these and some of the other marvelous things available to us. What I am suggesting is that when they become top priority in your life above all else, then we are seriously looking at idolatry.

Idols, in the biblical sense, were usually representations of some deity, or supreme being other than God. The Egyptian god Amon, who was usually depicted with a human body and the head of a ram (Jeremiah 46:25).

Moloch, was the national god of the Ammonites, to whom children were sacrificed by fire (Jeremiah 32:35). Dagan, the fish-god of the Philistines (Judges 16:23). And of course, the gold calf forged by the idolatrous Israelites at Sinai (Exodus 32:20).

In both cases, ours today, and those of biblical times, an "idol" is anything that replaces the one, true God. Materialism, or the obsessive acquisition of "stuff" that is bigger and better is a form of idolatry (Luke 12:15).

Personal accomplishments to feed one's ego, self-esteem, or impress others at the sacrifice of all else is idolatry. And when drugs, alcohol, pornography, and food rules over all else, at the cost of job, home, friends, and family, this is destructive idolatry (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).

What can we do to avoid falling into idolatry? Foremost, we must place our focus on God. We must make Him the focal point of our lives. We must, as Jesus directed in Matthew 22:37, "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind."

Not surprisingly, Satan is the great director of idolatry and will stop at nothing to ensnare us in it. And though many are able to shake free from idolatry, a good number end up going back. This is due to our own weakness of the flesh (Galatians 5:17).

Freeing ourselves from, or rejecting idolatry is not impossible. But, we have to admit that it is pervasive in our lives. Then we can rebuff or deny it in all forms. Just remember, God is the key that unlocks the shackles of idolatry (2 Corinthians 3:17).

Scripture: Colossians 2:8; Exodus 20:5; 2 Peter 3:9; Matthew 4:10; 1 Colossians 3:5

Prayer: Dear Lord Jesus, You paid the ultimate price for my salvation; the very least that I can do is to honor You by putting You first always in my heart and mind, amen.

God bless you,

Lauren

A "New Nature" In Christ

"Men are not sinners because they choose to sin; they choose to sin because they are sinners." - Walter J. Chantry

Who among us hasn't, at one time or another, tried to change something about themselves or their situation to become different in one way or another? If only it could be as simple as buying a new pair of shoes, or taking a different route home from work.

But, no matter how we try, the one thing that we can never eliminate from our hearts is our "sinful nature". It's tenacious, fleshy desire burdens us throughout our lives here in this world. As a leopard cannot change its spots, so it is with our sinful nature (Jeremiah 13:23).

Many foolishly make the mistake of thinking they can change their spots. It will never happen. They only continue to sink ever deeper into the muck and mire of sin, never noticing the lifeline being thrown out to them (Matthew 16:26).

If we had to deal with this alone we would be in deep trouble. Many foolishly think they can, only to continue sinking ever deeper into sin. Sadly, there is a lifeline constantly being thrown out to them, but their pride bars them from reaching for it (Matthew 16:26).

Knowing that we were floundering and flailing about, God sent His Only Begotten Son to offer us a "new nature" (John 3:16). Without him our sinful nature would run unchecked. But, when we accept his offer of salvation we are also provided with a new nature in Christ.

When we become believers in Christ we are transformed, if you will, under the law of Christ, into spiritual beings filled with a new nature, his nature. Our inner selves are now under the influence and ownership of God's grace and the life of Christ (Romans 5:21).

Scripture: Ephesians 2:8; 1 John 3:6; Hebrews 10:26-27; Titus 3:5; John 3:18

Prayer: Dear Jesus, You know my thoughts and my heart; all of my weaknesses are exposed to You. May You forgive my faults and strengthen me against sin always, amen.

God bless you always,

Julie

God Will Always Provide, Part 1

"The Christian life is not a constant high. I have my moments of deep discouragement. I have to go to God in prayer with tears in my eyes, and say, 'O God, forgive me,' or 'Help me.'" - Billy Graham

When Israel pulled out of Egypt they were glad to finally leave the oppression they suffered under the Pharaoh's rule. Being led by Moses, Aaron, and the LORD, in a pillar of cloud by day and of fire at night, their spirits were uplifted and hopeful.

Instead of a much shorter route to Canaan, the land promised to Israel by God (Genesis 15:18), God took them another way through the desert to the Red Sea. Narrowly escaping the pursuing Egyptian Army, they crossed the Red Sea with help from God's mighty hand (Exodus 14, 15).

Soon after, Israel found themselves three days deep into the desert and without water (Exodus 15:22). After some complaining to, and arguing with, Moses about their situation in Marah (Exodus 15:23), he prayed to God for help, and God provided water for them (Exodus 15:24-25).

Naturally, wandering through the desert wilderness is not easy, even for the experienced. Roads are rough, shelter is almost non-existent, and water is scarce, at best. Israel's mood was souring; Moses and Aaron were quite aware of it.

By this time, Israel has been about a month out of Egypt, they were hot and tired, confusion, frustration, and regret began to set in. But within a few hours from Marah, their previous stop for water, God led them to Elim.

There they found twelve wells (fountains) and seventy palm trees. Elim was an oasis where the tribes of Israel found plenty of water, shade, and a grassy, lush valley where their flocks could spread out and eat (Exodus 15:27).

Here, Israel made camp for a while, recharging their energy, resolve, and morale. Enjoying the abundance of this oasis surely let them forget their troubles, if only for now. But what awaited them just ahead..?

Next Week: The Discontent Grows...

Scripture: Joshua 1:13; Amos 9:15; Deuteronomy 1:8; Hebrews 4:2; Ezekiel 37:21

Prayer: Dear Lord, how abundant are the good things that you have stored up for those who fear you, that you bestow in the sight of all, on those who take refuge in you, amen.   - Psalm 31:19

Blessings always,

Cyndy

Tune-up That Sagging Faith

"So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day."  - 2 Corinthians 4:16

January is a long month, and it seems like it has been forever since those cheerful, merry days of December. Perhaps you have found yourself running short of the motivation and positive energy that you began the new year with.

I feel that now is a great time to evaluate or check your spiritual levels, and find out what needs attention. Or, to use an automobile metaphor, let's "tune-up" our hearts! It may seem strange to some but our faith also needs check-ups now and then.

Winter doldrums can tax not only our mental and physical health, but our spiritual well-being, too. Exercise, rest, and relaxation may help with the physical and mental areas, but what about a sagging or fading faith?

Prayer is always the best place to start (Philippians 4:6). Why? Because this is where we communicate with Jesus one-one-one. He knows our hearts, therefore, who is better able to see what is going on in there than him? (Romans 8:27; Ephesians 2:18).

But he won't approach us first, that's our job (Jeremiah 29:13). Letting Jesus into our hearts allows us to "draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace." However, we must demonstrate our faith by approaching him first (Ephesians 3:12).

In addition, great comfort and support lies between the pages of Scripture (John 5:39). I'm not talking about doing an in-depth study on chapters or characters. Sometimes a certain paragraph, or verse will be just what you need (2 Timothy 3:16-17; Matthew 4:4; Psalm 119:105 ).

Both of the above suggestions require nothing more than a little time and effort on your part. No expensive memberships or subscriptions are required. Yet, the benefits received from them will far exceed anything worldly or materially derived. What are you waiting for..?

Scripture: Hebrews 2:1; Isaiah 40:31; Romans 15:13; Proverbs 3:26; Luke 1:37; 

Prayer: Holy Father, create in me a clean heart, and renew a right spirit within me, amen.

Blessings always,

Cyndy