Bible Study Snacks, Romans 11:11-24

Hi, everyone!

Thank you so much for joining me as we continue our journey through the Book of Romans. I hope that all is well in your life! This week, we will be studying Chapter 11, verses 11-24. It is my most sincere hope that you'll find these Bible Study Snacks helpful and spiritually enlightening in your walk with God.

This week in summary...

Paul magnifies his ministry to the Gentiles, hoping to save some of his countrymen by provoking them to jealousy. Paul then directs his attention to the Gentile believers, explaining that their obedience allowed them to be "grafted" into Israel to replace those removed by their own disobedience. This "grafting," however, is permanent only as long as they remain faithful. In addition, if any Israelites repent of their unbelief, they too can be grafted back in.

Let’s pray:

Heavenly father, please guide us as we study your Word today; I pray that our hearts and our minds will be open so that we will not only receive your Gospel, but learn from it as well; you are the Light of the world, Lord, and your Spirit will illuminate our path as we journey through your teachings. In the name of Jesus Christ, Our Lord and Savior. Amen.

Carefully read through Romans 11:11-24. Here again, I must stress the word “carefully” because if you aren’t “careful” you will miss Paul’s point. Let Paul speak to you through his writings as if he were right there with you, sharing his story in person.

This week’s study questions:

1. Who is it that stumbled (Romans 11:11)?
2. What is the difference between stumbling and falling (Romans 11:11)?
3. So then, did Israel ‘fall’ (Romans 11:11)?
4. How is it that pagans, called Gentiles, were given the opportunity to believe (Romans 11:11-12)?
5. What does the last phrase in verse 12 mean? Finish this statement: If God was to use Israel’s sin and failures to bring blessings to the whole world, He will _________when the Israelites obey.
6. What did Israel’s rejection of the Messiah bring to the world (Romans 11:15)?
7. Paul as the apostle to the Gentiles wanted his ministry to have an impact upon his fellow Israelites. How did he hope this might work out (Romans 11:13-14)?
8. What sign of hope for the Jewish nation do we have from Paul in Romans 11:15?
9. Simply share the meaning of this truth through the two illustrations in Romans 11:16.
10. Paul takes the later illustration of verse 16 and enlarges upon it. Write down both the literal meaning (Romans 11:17) and the spiritual meaning (Romans 11:17-18) of this illustration.
11. Who is Paul warning in verse 18?
12. What is the warning (Romans 11:18)?
13. Why is it that the Gentiles (the branches) might become prideful (Romans 11:19-21)?
14. List two attributes of God from verse 22: ____________ and _____________.
15. Who does God treat severely (Romans 11:22)?
16. Who does God treat kindly (Romans 11:22)?
17. Is God able to treat kindly those He has dealt severely with (Romans 11:23-24)?
18. Does the illustration of the olive tree differentiate the church and Israel as two different peoples with whom God deals or one? Is the church here considered part of the true Israel?

Finally, after answering the study questions, re-read Romans Romans 11:11-24. Take your time and read each question and verse as many times as you feel necessary. Keep in mind that by doing this, you might see something new that you overlooked the first time around.

As we journey through our studies together, I will continue to pray that God’s message will come through to you loud and crystal clear. Until next time, I wish everyone a blessed week!

God bless you!

Sheri

Bible Study Snacks, Romans 10:16-11:10

Hi, everyone!

Thank you so much for joining me as we continue our journey through the Book of Romans. I hope that all is well in your life! This week, we will be studying Chapter 10:16 to Chapter 11:10. It is my most sincere hope that you'll find these Bible Study Snacks helpful and spiritually enlightening in your walk with God.

This week in summary...

The problem with the nation of Israel was that not all of them received the gospel message, even when they had ample opportunity. But as Moses predicted, the day would come when God would provoke Israel to jealousy by another people, who Isaiah said did not seek God yet found Him, while Israel was constantly rebelling against Him.

Paul concludes chapter ten with a quotation from Isaiah describing the nation of Israel as "a disobedient and contrary people." Paul begins chapter eleven by giving several examples to show that despite this rebellion God has not totally rejected His people. What God has done, however, is harden the hearts of the rebellious Israelites.

Let’s pray:

Heavenly father, please guide us as we study your Word today; I pray that our hearts and our minds will be open so that we will not only receive your Gospel, but learn from it as well; you are the Light of the world, Lord, and your Spirit will illuminate our path as we journey through your teachings. In the name of Jesus Christ, Our Lord and Savior. Amen.

Carefully read through Romans 10:16-11:10. Here again, I must stress the word “carefully” because if you aren’t “careful” you will miss Paul’s point. Let Paul speak to you through his writings as if he were right there with you, sharing his story in person.

This week’s study questions:

1. What does the gospel (‘glad tidings’ in NASB; ‘message’ in NIV) literally mean (Romans 10:16)?
2. Did everyone believe the gospel who heard it (Romans 10:16)?
3. Copy the OT quote in (Romans 10:16) that gives evidence for this unbelief.
4. Where does faith come from (Romans 10:17)?
5. Is it because Israel had never heard the gospel that they did not believe in Christ (Romans 10:18)?
6. These two verses prove that Israel did hear but as a nation did not believe Christ (Romans 10:19-20)? What is it that God said He would do if Israel turned away from the truth?
7. Does God’s rejection of Israel mean He doesn’t care for them (Romans 10:21)?
8. God hasn’t totally rejected His people Israel. What example does Paul give us in 11:1?
9. Which Israelites did He not reject?
10. What example does Paul give to prove that He has not rejected all Israelites (Romans 11:2-4)?
11. Paul described his own era as being: a) the same, b) better than c) worse than the time of Elijah (Romans 11:5)?
12. What are those chosen and reserved by God called in Romans 11:5?
13. Try to put in your own words the phrase “and if by grace, then it is no longer by works; if it were, grace would no longer be grace” (Romans 11:6)? Do your best!
14. Which one of the following two principles does God use in saving His people (Romans 11:7)? a) Those who work the hardest for Him are saved; b) Those who had not really been seeking received salvation because they were chosen.
15. God uses the ‘hardening’ of hearts and minds as a means of judging people. Describe the various ways Paul describes this process or the results of this hardening (Romans 11:8-10).

Finally, after answering the study questions, re-read Romans Romans 10:16-11:10. Take your time and read each question and verse as many times as you feel necessary. Keep in mind that by doing this, you might see something new that you overlooked the first time around.

As we journey through our studies together, I will continue to pray that God’s message will come through to you loud and crystal clear. Until next time, I wish everyone a blessed week!

God bless you!

Sheri

Saturday Scripture Gold, Philippians 3:10-16

Happy Saturday!

Thank you for joining me today. Each week, I will take a verse (or passage) from the Bible and dig beneath the surface to uncover the precious golden nuggets of truth, wisdom, and knowledge that lie waiting to be discovered. I pray that this will inspire you to do some "digging" of your own into God's scripture!

This week's Bible passage: Philippians 3:10-16

A hungry tiger started tracking the scent of a deer. As he followed the deer, he came across the scent of a rabbit. He turned aside and started after the rabbit. The he was distracted by the scent of a mouse and started following that. He finally came to the hole into which the mouse had vanished. He ended the day hungrier than when he had started the day. This fable illustrates how many spend their lives distracted with this or that, and at the end of the day they have accomplished little.

In Philippians 3:10-16 we find a focus for one’s life, a spiritual focus. Paul wrote Philippians 3:13-14. He said, “this one thing I do." Not “a hundred things I start” or “a dozen things I attempt” – but “one thing I do.” Paul means that he is putting all his energy into this one thing, “pressing toward the mark”

Okay, I admit that I have struggled with this concept of "being focused." I get involved, at times, in too many projects and end up doing less than my best with many of them. Perhaps you, too, have trouble staying focused. If so, a study of Paul’s focused life will help us both. We will discuss three topics that helped Paul stay focused. These can serve to help us stay focused, as well.

First, stay focused on a person (Philippians 3:10-11). “Knowing” Christ involves more than just knowing about Him, it includes developing a relationship with Him. Paul already enjoyed a special relationship with Christ, but he stilled longed for a deeper and richer knowledge. This meant knowing Christ in this life. Paul wanted to know everything about Jesus. He wanted to know “the power of His resurrection.” Paul wants to know the power or strength available to the Christian through the resurrection of the Lord (Galatians 2:20; Philippians 4:13). But at the same time he felt the need for a constant renewal of that strength and power.

In addition, Paul wanted to know “the fellowship of his suffering.” “Fellowship” is sharing or joint participation. Paul felt no one could know Christ fully unless he shared in His suffering (Galatians 6:17; 2 Corinthians 4:10-11). Through suffering for the cause of Christ, Paul came to understand more clearly what the Lord had suffered for him. Paul concluded his thought with the words, “conformable unto his death.”With the help of the Lord, Paul was dying to himself (Galatians 2:20).

Paul’s desire to know Christ more fully had at least four facets:

1) A personal experience: “that I may know Him”

2) A powerful experience: “and the power of His resurrection”

3) A painful experience: “and the fellowship of His suffering”

4) A practical experience: “being conformable unto His death”

The beginning of our quest to know Christ is seen in Romans 6. Notice the emphasis on Christ’s suffering and resurrection and our need to conform to His death. Paul looked forward to Knowing Christ in the next life. This is evidently what Paul had in mind (Philippians 3:11; John 5:28-29). Paul very much looked forward to the time when he could know Christ fully.

Secondly, stay focused on a prize (Philippians 3:12-14). This includes the past, present, and future. Regarding the present: Humility Is Needed! “Not as though I had already attained…” (Philppians 3:12). Paul had not yet obtained the full knowledge of Christ, which would come at the resurrection. “…either were already perfect” (Philippians 3:12). Paul knew that he was not all he could be or should be. If Paul claimed he had room to grow, what about us? The Bible challenge is for us to grow (Ephesians 4:15; 2 Peter 3:18).

Regarding the past: Forgiveness Is Needed. How did Paul cope with not being all that he could be? We see this in his words, “forgetting those things which are behind” (Philppians 3:13). What did Paul forget? He forgot his past successes, as was seen earlier in this chapter. We can't rely on our past laurels. We must continue to prove ourselves. Paul also forgot his past failures. He admitted he was not “perfect” and he had not “laid hold.” Paul did not spend his time regretting, he repented and moved forward. Many allow the past to destroy their present and future (Hebrews 8:12).

Regarding the future: Progress Is Needed. When we dwell on the past we many times become distracted and discouraged. Paul said “this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before” (Philippians 3:13). Here Paul’s intensity is seen, he had a great desire to reach his spiritual goal. What was Paul reaching for? He (Paul) was reaching for the prize!Paul knew, and so should we, that this can only be done as we faithfully fulfill our mission. We must live faithfully and bring as many to Christ as we possible can (2 Timothy 4:7-8).

Thirdly, we must stay focused on people (Philippians 3:15-16). This is a genuine concern. In verses 4-14 we find Paul focused on his life (“I”- “me”-”my”-”myself”). But in verse 15 he suddenly shifts to the plural “Let us." This tells us that Paul’s focus in life was also on others. Paul wants everyone to have the attitude he has been describing. We are reminded that sometimes we are in need of a gentle correction; “and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you” (Philippians 3:15). Allow me to point out here that one trait of immaturity is an inadequate grasp of God’s word.

Paul was confident that they would get the instruction they needed to make the proper decisions. He was confident that the dissenters would soon learn better. The general command here is to: “Walk by the same rule…mind the same thing.” To be spiritually united we must have a common authority; that authority is God’s Word. God’s will for us will be plain if we will obediently adhere,or stick to His written word.

In summary, we must stay focused on the spiritual task before us. Certainly there are many important matters in life, but none are as important as following Jesus!

Let's Pray:

Dear Lord, govern everything by your wisdom, so that my soul may always be serving you in the way you will and not as I choose. Let me die to myself so that I may serve you; let me live to you who are life itself. Amen.

Until next week...

God bless you,

Rochelle

Bible Study Snacks, Romans 10:1-15

Hi, everyone!

Thank you so much for joining me as we continue our journey through the Book of Romans. I hope that all is well in your life! This week, we will be studying Chapter 10 verses 1-15. It is my most sincere hope that you'll find these Bible Study Snacks helpful and spiritually enlightening in your walk with God.

This week in summary...

As Paul continues to explain God's dealings with the nation of Israel, he repeats his expression of love towards them. Though as a nation they had plenty of zeal, unfortunately their zeal was not according to knowledge. Thus they rejected the righteousness of God while trying to establish their own righteousness through the Law of Moses. But Paul explains that Christ is the fulfillment of the Law and has brought it to an end.

The righteousness God now offers is based upon faith in Christ, not keeping the Law. It involves not the accomplishment of some great feat (like ascending to heaven or descending to hell), but such things as confessing Jesus as Lord and believing that God raised Him from the dead. As foretold by Scripture, it is offered to all, both Jew and Gentile. And it is offered through the medium of preaching the Word.

Let’s pray:

Heavenly father, please guide us as we study your Word today; I pray that our hearts and our minds will be open so that we will not only receive your Gospel, but learn from it as well; you are the Light of the world, Lord, and your Spirit will illuminate our path as we journey through your teachings. In the name of Jesus Christ, Our Lord and Savior. Amen.

Carefully read through Romans 10:1-15. Here again, I must stress the word “carefully” because if you aren’t “careful” you will miss Paul’s point. Let Paul speak to you through his writings as if he were right there with you, sharing his story in person.

This week’s study questions:

1. Who is Paul greatly concerned about at the beginning of this chapter (Romans 10:1; also refer to Romans 9:1-5)?
2. What are the two ways Paul sees his own concern for these people (Romans 10:1)?
3. Were they sincere in their religious beliefs (Romans 10:2)?
4. What was Paul’s criticism of their belief (Romans 10:2)?
5. List the three obstacles that these people had in becoming saved (Romans 10:3).
6. Complete Romans 10:4 (NIV version). Christ is the ___________ of the ______________ so that there may be _________________ for everyone who _______________________.
7. How does Moses describe the life based on the law (Romans 10:5)?
8. The righteousness based on faith is also spoken of in the Old Testament. What two truths about the Messiah are prophesied in these Old Testament verses (Romans 10:6-7)?
a) “Do not say in your heart, ‘Who will ascend into heaven?’ (that is, to bring Christ down.)
b) ‘Who will descend into the deep?’ (that is, to bring Christ up from the dead).”
9. Is the Messiah Paul preached about different than what they have in their Old Testament scriptures (Romans 10:8)?
10. We are very familiar with the confession stated in verse 9 and amplified in verse 10? What is the connection between this confession and the quote in verse (Romans 10:8)?
11. Paul is sharing the gospel with the Jews in these verses. Please write down the quote that he uses to clinch his powerful gospel presentation (Romans 10:11).
12. Paul was certain this message was not only for Jews but for Gentiles too. What scripture does he give to the Jews showing that salvation riches are for whoever calls upon Him (Romans 10:12-13)?
13. Paul also uses Old Testament scripture to defend his missionary zeal (Romans 10:14-15). Complete the logical steps Paul develops in these two verses.
a. How can they call upon the Lord if they haven’t _______________ (Romans 10:14)?
b. How can they believe unless they have ______________________ (Romans 10:14)?
c. How can they hear unless someone ________________________ to them (Romans 10:14)?
d. How can they preach unless someone _______________________ (Romans 10:15)?

Finally, after answering the study questions, re-read Romans Romans 10:1-15. Take your time and read each question and verse as many times as you feel necessary. Keep in mind that by doing this, you might see something new that you overlooked the first time around.

As we journey through our studies together, I will continue to pray that God’s message will come through to you loud and crystal clear. Until next time, I wish everyone a blessed week!

God bless you!

Sheri

Why Shouldn't I Be Baptized?

As they traveled along the road, they came to some water and the eunuch said, "Look, here is water. Why shouldn't I be baptized?" -Acts 8:36 (NIV)

With the story of the Ethiopian eunuch, we have an example of conversion. It involved someone who was very religious, yet still lost (Acts 8:27-28); who was willing to learn, and open to being taught (Acts 8:29-34); to whom Philip preached Jesus (Acts 8:35); and who then immediately requested and received baptism (Acts 8:36-38).

His inquiry, "See, here is water. What hinders me from being baptized?" is enlightening. It reveals that baptism in water was integral to preaching Christ (Acts 8:35-36). Indeed it was commanded by Christ Himself (Mark 16:15-16). Similarly, His apostles commanded it as well (Acts 2:38; 10:47-48).

His (the eunuch) inquiry also raises questions that we do well to ask, as well. What does hinder, or prevent one from being baptized? And, what should not hinder one from being baptized? Let's see if we can answer these questions. Perhaps it is good to begin with that which "does hinder one."

For one thing, there may be the clear lack of faith. Belief in Christ as a prerequisite is clearly stated by Philip (Acts 8:37). Jesus also stressed the necessity of faith (Mark 16:16; John 8:24). For if one does not believe, or is incapable of belief, then that can prevent baptism.

Then there can be the lack of repentance. Repentance as a prerequisite to baptism is implied by Peter (Acts 2:36-38). It is clearly a prerequisite to having one's sins "blotted out" (Acts 3:19). If one does not repent, or is incapable of repentance, then that hinders baptism.

Maybe it's the lack of water? Here, we are talking about baptism in water (Acts 8:36; 10:47). This is a baptism that "washes away sin", because it is a burial with Christ (Acts 22:16; Romans 6:3-4). Therefore, if there is no water, then that hinders baptism.

Of course, lack of water is rarely the issue. God has made water plentiful. It is the lack of faith or repentance that is really the only thing that hinders one from being baptized. Yet people often allow things they should not to keep themselves from being baptized. But what "things" are we talking about? Let us now examine "what should not hinder one."

We shall begin with PRIDE. Some are too proud to admit they need forgiveness for their sins. Some are too proud to acknowledge they are mistaken about their need for baptism. Unfortunately, such pride will keep God away (Psalm 138:6; James 4:6). Pride should never hinder one from being baptized! Next, there is FAMILY. Some are concerned what their family will think. Perhaps they are afraid of being disowned by their family. Jesus made it clear that family should not prevent us from doing His will (Matthew 10:37-38). Family should never hinder one from being baptized!

Maybe it is PEER PRESSURE. Some are afraid of being ridiculed or ostracized by their friends. It was peer pressure that kept some from confessing Jesus (John 12:42-43). Jesus made it clear that what others think should not sway us (Luke 9:26). Peer pressure should never hinder one from being baptized! In some cases it might be IMPROPER UNDERSTANDING. Some believe they do not know enough to be baptized. They presume that one must know everything the Bible teaches. Yet like the eunuch, most conversions in the NT occurred after one sermon. Jesus stated that much teaching follows, not precedes, baptism (Matthew 28:19-20). If one is a penitent (expressing sorrow for sin) believer, willing to follow Jesus as Lord, they are ready.

Some believe they are not good enough to be baptized. They presume that they must reform themselves first. But baptism is for sinners, not saints. Much spiritual development occurs after salvation, not before (Colossians 3:1-14). If one has repented (changed their mind to serve God), they are ready. Misunderstanding should never hinder one from being baptized!

The TIME OF DAY OR NIGHT might prevent one from being baptized. Some may think baptism can occur only at certain times. As in response to the invitation at the end of a sermon, or at some special baptismal service. The eunuch's baptism illustrates it can be done anywhere, anytime (Acts 8:38). Likewise the baptisms of the Philippian jailor and his family (Acts 16:25-33). The time or place should never hinder one from being baptized!

After the eunuch was baptized, he went on his way rejoicing (Acts 8:39). Why? He believed that Jesus was the Christ, who died for his sins. He had confessed his faith in Jesus as the Christ. And even though it was not mentioned, we can assume that he repented of his sins. My dear friends, if you desire the same assurance of salvation that the eunuch enjoyed, then let nothing hinder you from obeying the gospel in the same manner. Be baptized as soon as possible, upon the confession of your faith in Jesus!

Prayer: The Lord's Prayer

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come; Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen

May God bless you,

Gayle

His Grace Runs Through All!

A man can no more take a supply of grace for the future than he can eat enough today to last him for the next six months, or take sufficient air into his lungs to sustain life for a week to come. We must draw upon God's boundless stores for grace from day to day, as we need it. —D. L. Moody

How can one define grace? The usual definition of grace, "unmerited favor," is not broad enough in scope to fully define all that is meant by the term. With this in mind, I refer you to a few examples: Luke 2:40 and Ecclesiastes 10:12.

W.E Vine defined grace this way..."That which bestows or occasions pleasure, delight, or causes favorable regard;...on the part of the bestower, the friendly disposition from which the kindly act proceeds, graciousness, lovingkindness, goodwill generally...especially with reference to the Divine favour or grace, e.g. Acts 14:26..." (Expository Dictionary of NT Words, 509-10)

This is a good time to turn to the Biblical definiton. Grace, in respect to salvation: is a summary of all God has done to effect the salvation of man. This includes all of God's acts which show favor to undeserving mankind. God's grace is more than mere passive pity. It expresses itself in real, concrete acts of love (Romans 5:8). His grace runs through all He has done for man's salvation. By grace: He sacrificed His Son (Hebrews 5:8-9).

He revealed His plan of salvation, as seen in: 1 Corinthians 2:9-12; Galatians 1:11-12; Ephesians 3:1-5; Titus 2:11-12; Hebrews 1:1-2; Ephesians 2:4-7; Romans 6:4-5; Matthew 16:18; Acts 20:28; Ephesians 5:25-27. We also see that grace excludes salvation by meritorious, or noble works (Romans 4:4; 11:16).

So what is the necessity of grace? Why do we need it? The reason that grace is needed is SIN: ALL HAVE SINNED (Romans 3:10, 23)! As evidence of this, the spiritual state of man is seen in many passages, such as: 1 Kings 8:46; Proverbs 20:9; Ecclesiastes 7:20; Psalm 14:2-3. We can also include here the fact that since man sold himself into the bondage of sin (John 8:34), and since all sinned (Ezekiel 18:20; Romans 6:23), all are under the sentence of death (Ezekiel 18:20; Romans 6:23).

Certainly this all sounds dark and desperate, however, God, in His matchless love, provided the ransom price for man's sins...His Son to die in man's place (2Corinthians 5:21; 1 Peter 1:18-19). While the grace of God is demonstrated in many ways, none is greater than its manifestation in His Son (Romans 3:23-24).

Now, as comforting as this may all sound, make no mistake that salvation is not merited! Man has sinned and deserves hell and no works he could do would earn or merit his salvation. Salvation is that which is given by God's grace. This is a favor that man has not merited. For that reason, salvation is the gift from God!

In closing, here are some things to consider. First, we ought to be grateful for the lovingkindness, favor and grace of our God. Secondly, without God's grace we would all be condemned for all of us has sinned. And lastly, look to God's grace, obey the gospel for the salvation of your soul.

Scripture: Ephesians 2:8-9

Let's pray:

May the grace of Christ our Savior,
And the Father's boundless love,
With the Holy Spirit's favor,
Rest upon us from above.

Thus may we abide in union
With each other and the Lord,
And possess, in sweet communion,
Joys which earth cannot afford.
Amen.

May God bless you,

Claire

Is God's Word Treasured In Your Heart?

For 176 verses the psalmist writes powerfully regarding the word of God. He begins with a blessing to all who walk in the Law, v. 1. He ends with expressions of longing for salvation according to the law, the commandments. The word of God is lifted high in prestige and importance for the child of God.

Today, I would like to emphasize the importance of the word applied to the heart. In my blog entry, I propose that God’s message to us encompasses three things. These are:

1) God’s word is to be hid in the heart.

2) God’s word hid guards against sin.

3) The heart with the word hid causes no offense.

I believe we can all see the essentiality of these matters and pay our closest attention to them. Let's begin with number one, "God’s Word Is To Be Hid In The Heart." Why God’s Word? He cannot lie, Titus 1:2. His word is truth, John 17:17. His word is effective, Hebrews 4:12; Jeremiah 23:29 because it saves, Romans 1:16; James 1:21 and because it equips, 2 Timothy 3:16-17.

What does “hid in the heart” mean? Hebrew scholars and more modern translation tell us that “hid” means “treasured.” This involves value, intent, stedfastness. Valued, Psalm 19:7-10. Intent, Ezra 7:10. Intent to learn and obey, Isaiah 2:2-3. Stedfastness, Acts 2:42. What is the heart? That which has thoughts, Genesis 6:5; Luke 2:19. So, to hide something in the heart is to value, learn and obey.

Next, let's look at number two, "God’s Word Hid Guards Against Sin." Some good examples would be Uzzah’s death caused by ignorance, 2 Samuel 6:1-7; 1 Chronicles 15:13-15. God’s words to be in their hearts, Deuteronomy 6:4-6. In Psalms 37:31, “The law of his God is in his heart: none of his steps shall slide.” See also, Acts 17:30-31.

Finally, let's take a look a number three, "The Heart With The Word Hid (Treasured) Causes No Offense." God turns from us when we are in sin, Isaiah 59:1-2. The sin problem is universal, Romans 3:23; and fatal, Romans 6:23. The heart with the word treasured will obey the Gospel, Romans 6:17. The heart with the treasured word walks in the light, 1 John 1:7-9 and seeks forgiveness, Acts 8:22; even in a wilderness, Acts 8:36.

You have just been given many examples of how God's message is not only treasured, but applied to the heart. The basic, but extremely important question I leave you with is this, "Is God’s Word treasured in your heart?"

Scripture: Psalm 119:11

Prayer:

My dear God, I come into your presence so aware of my human frailty and yet overwhelmed by your love for me. I thank you that there is no human experience that I might walk through where your love cannot reach me. If I climb the highest mountain you are there and yet if I find myself in the darkest valley of my life, you are there. Teach me today to love you more. Help me to rest in that love that asks nothing more than the simple trusting heart of a child. In Jesus name, Amen

Have a blessed day,

Klarisa