We Are Sailing on Troubled Waters

"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."  - John 16:33

There's an awful lot going on in the world right now. Along with all of the usual problems (war, political unrest, natural disasters, etc.) a newly, declared pandemic caused by Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has now been added to the list.

Understandably, everyone is uncertain, confused, and afraid. These feelings are quite appropriate, as we are definitely in a crisis mode. But life on earth is like that, we can never completely rest while living here.

Long ago, on board a boat on the inland sea of Galilee, Jesus' and the disciples faced a real crisis, as well: a terrible storm. The fear and crying out that came from the twelve demonstrated that even they (who knew Jesus personally) were not exempt from difficulties (Matthew 8:26).

Using this example, let's imagine that sea is a picture of this world. And everyone who is afloat on it represents the voyage of life. The storm symbolizes the adversities and troubles we often run into during this voyage.

Thus, it appears at first that following Christ can sometimes lead you into some trying scenes. After all, he boarded the boat taking His disciples with Him right into the storm. But remember, Christianity doesn't exempt any from trials in this world (1 Peter 4:12).

Certainly, following Jesus may save one from many sorrows, however it can also lead to troubles. This was quite true of the first Christians. Earthly life is like that Tiberian lake, sometimes calm and beautiful, but can get downright mean and nasty, too (James 1:2).

Still, our way lies through that lake. The Savior himself said, " In this world you will have trouble;" and that's been true throughout history. If anyone expects to reach the joyous shore without meeting up with various storms and troubles, they will be sorely disappointed (John 16:33).

A great and miraculous calm was eventually produced by Christ for the weary and despairing disciples when they turned to Him in their time of need (Matthew 8:26). What He did for them on Galilee He will do in His own good time for all who turn to, and trust, in Him.

What I just mentioned prophesies the ultimate outcome of the work of Christ. One word says it all; and that word is "peace." To all fearful and distressed believers, Peace. To distressed and troubled nature, Peace. To growing and suffering creation, Peace.

Yes, we are presently sailing stormy seas. No one seems to be sure of anything, and our fears are mounting. But this too will pass. It is of the utmost importance that we have Jesus with us on our voyage over these troubled waters (Psalm 34:17-18).

Without Him no ship can endure the storms, or bring us safely across to the other shore. We might think we can make it on our own strength and wisdom; but we'll quickly find out just  how helpless we are against absolute despair without Him (Mark 5:36).

Therefore, we shouldn't think of it as strange when raging trials come, as though they were something out of the ordinary. Instead, we should look upon them as from God, meant to try, purify, develop, bless, and perfect us in the His likeness.

Scripture: Philippians 4:6; 1 Peter 5:7; Psalm 4:8; Romans 12:12; Psalm 34:19

Prayer: Dear Jesus, You are my lifeline to peace and calm in these troubling and uncertain times. And should I find myself floundering, You're always there to give me the strength and support I need. Amen.

May God always bless you,

Judith

Scripture Study with Bibi, Genesis 15:1-21

"God does not give us everything we want, but He does fulfill His promises, leading us along the best and straightest paths to Himself."  - Dietrich Bonhoeffer

A covenant is an agreement between either two individuals, or two groups, holding them to promises each has made to the other. Interestingly, "covenant" probably means "betweenness," thus underscoring the reasonable element lying at the foundation of all covenants.

Human covenants or treaties were either between two equals, or a superior and an inferior party. A divine covenant, such as that between God and His people, is one of the most important theological truths of the Bible. It always involves one who is superior and an inferior.

In Genesis 14 we saw Abram and his nephew Lot part ways, a war between confederate kings and kings of Canaan, the capture of Lot and his family as part of the plunder of the victorious confederate kings, and the eventual rescue of Lot and his family by Abram.

This week in Genesis 15, we shall examine a solemn treaty between God and Abram in regard to a covenant that was to be established between them. Here we shall see the Abrahamic Covenant firmly established and the promise of a spiritual seed.

Before we start, I always encourage everyone to read the material prior to completing the exercises. It always helps to begin with a good understanding of what we will be discussing. In addition, it will make your time in study more rewarding.

Let's begin with prayer: Dear LORD, as we meet together to learn, grow, and change in study, help us move into a deeper understanding of Your truth. Amen

Now this week's study:

Abram was now about eighty-five years old. Up to this point, he had spent fourteen years in Palestine, and had, for the only time in his life, recently been forced to fight against an imposing band of northern kings.

He was still a stranger in a foreign land that was already inhabited by other tribes. So it wouldn't be too difficult for them to join against him if there was any inkling that he was an intruder. Surely if Abram ever needed words of comfort and inspiration, it was certainly now!

1.) To ease Abram's fear, he was pacified with a gracious announcement from the LORD. What was it? (Genesis 15:1)

2.) Even so, Abram still had some concern. What was it that worried him? What were the specifics? (Genesis 15:2-3).

3.) The LORD replied strongly to Abram's question. What was His response to Abram? And how did the LORD elaborate on His reply? What was Abram's response and God's declaration to it? (Genesis 15:4-6)

4.) The LORD then steered Abram back to why he was brought here. What did the LORD say to Abram? (Genesis 15:7)

5.) Abram, though still strong in faith, nevertheless desired additional reassurance from the LORD to confirm it as we do from time to time. What did Abram ask the LORD? (Genesis 15:8)

6.) In order to gratify Abram, the LORD commanded him to prepare for the conclusion of a covenant. What did He ask Abram to do? How did he comply to the LORD's request? (Genesis 15:9-10)

7.) An event occurs in Genesis 15:11 involving an evil omen representing the potential pollution of the sacrifice and impairment of the covenant. As a side note, this evil omen apparently symbolized the experience of Israel in Egypt. The Egyptians, by their enslavement of Israel, posed a threat to the fulfillment of the Divine promise to the seed of Abram. Abram did something that symbolized the overcoming of all barriers. What was it that he did here?

8.) The LORD had given Abram orders concerning the sacrifices. Abram prepared and and laid them out. After he had done this he sat by them and prayed all day until evening. What happened next to Abram? (Genesis 15:12)

9.) Even so, Abram was still very much aware of what was happening around him. Though truly in fear, he was now prepared for the revelation he was about to receive. Was was it? What announcement in verses 13 and 14 clarified the meaning of the evil omen back in verse 11? (Genesis 15:13-16)

10.) To validate His promise of a seed (verses 1-6), and of a land (verses 7, 8, 18-21), God performed a strange and important act of symbolism signifying it was an unconditional covenant totally dependent only on God, thus making its promises absolutely certain. What was this act? Describe it. (Genesis 15:17)

11.) After the LORD made a formal covenant with Abram (the Abrahamic Covenant), He then specified Israel's geographical boundaries under it. How were the boundaries described? (Genesis 15:18-21)

This concludes our bible study for this week. Next time we will look at the interesting story of Sarai and Hagar in Genesis 16. Don't forget to read ahead, it will be worth your time.

Until next time, have a blessed and safe weekend!

Scripture: Philippians 4:19; Jeremiah 29:11; 2 Corinthians 1:20; Psalm 84:1; Proverbs 1:33 

Prayer: Dear LORD, strengthen me with the hope of my salvation and the many other blessings you provide with your continuous presence in my life. Amen.

May you be generously blessed!

Bibi

The Almighty Inquisitor

"You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar."  - Psalm 139:2

God is the ultimate examiner. What does this mean? In short, it means that God, and He alone, has the universal power and right to question the deepest thoughts and being of every intelligent soul.

Every individual should, before he or she even considers doing anything, keep in mind that whatever they do will be questioned. It may be easy to slip and slide around the probing questions of others, but not so with God.

By hiding in the garden of Eden, Adam wanted to shield himself from the discovery of his sin. But, somewhere from among the trees of the now pillaged paradise came the clear, and resounding question, "Where are you?” There wasn't any doubt who this question was intended for (Genesis 3:9).

Elijah ran away in fear from the wrath of Jezebel, seeking shelter in a cave. While hiding out, he forgot about his mission and his work. It was there that the One who had chosen Elijah to be a prophet found him, asking the piercing question, "What are you doing here, Elijah?" (1 Kings 19:13) That was definitely a question that couldn't be ignored.

While Saul (Paul) was traveling to Damascus, brimming with hate and bigotry, he was suddenly encompassed and overwhelmed by a bright, glaring light. It was there that he was asked by the crucified but now resurrected Christ, "Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?" (Acts 9:4)

And even though Saul had power over Jesus' disciples, he could not disregard this question, it had to be answered. Neither was Cain an exception to this rule. Up to the point where he actually took Abel's life there was nothing to indicate he would do so.

However, God sees and judges the thoughts of all. Noticing the displeasure on Cain's face, and the bitter jealousy behind it, God asks Cain a question that goes straight to the root of his sin, "Why are you angry? Why is your face downcast?" (Genesis 4:6)

Each one of us will have to deal with the same kind of questioning. You can depend on it! We're not our own. We don't belong to a world without laws or boundaries. Nor are we the offspring of chaos.

We are the creation of boundless wisdom and love, being capable of magnificent achievements. Still, we cannot foolishly toss aside our splendid inheritance, while dragging ourselves off into the gutter of spiritual and moral bankruptcy.

No, we all have to face the heart-searching questions that arise from God's mighty throne. It is truly merciful that the road to perdition is made rough and rocky! Many times we quote Proverbs 13:15, "...the way of the unfaithful leads to their destruction," in a regretful manner.

We say it as if it were a difficult and undesirable saying. But, there's nothing more clearly presented that demonstrates the love and merciful provision of God. We should be grateful that doing wrong, and continuing to do so, doesn't come that easy.

As Christ told Saul, "It is hard for you to kick against the goads," so God has placed many "goads" in the path leading away from peace into the darkness of sin (Acts 26:14). Goads were sharply pointed instruments used to force stubborn animals to move ahead.

God doesn't ask us to do impossible things. At its very basic level, the Christian life is not all that complicated. We just need to stop doing wrongful things, and do those that are good; while not leaning on our own strength to do so.

Forgiveness awaits you if, in humility and honesty, you will turn away from sin and accept the divine remedy for a pure and upright life. Amen!

Scripture: Jeremiah 17:10; 1 John 3:20; Psalm 139:23-24; Genesis 6:5; 1 John 1:8 

Prayer: Dear Jesus, teach me how to line up my heart with Yours. I know I'm not perfect and stumble now and again, but I am willing to learn. Show me how to become the person that You know I can be. Amen.

May God bless you,

Lainey

He Humbled Himself...(Part II, Conclusion)

"No sacrifice should be too great for Him who gave Himself for us."   - Harry Ironside

Last week, we began our discourse on how there is no limit to what Jesus Christ would do to save our guilty souls. This week we shall expand on this and then conclude, hopefully leaving you with a better understanding of the subject.

We have already briefly examined Christ prior to His incarnation. Now we shall look at the act by which He became man, as well as He was God, otherwise known as the act of incarnation.

Without a doubt, His incarnation was the distinctively, special union of, both, the divine and human nature in Christ, where He became the God-man. This required an act of great humiliation on the part of God's son.

Let's consider this, shall we? Christ totally unpacked Himself of his dignity and majesty. And while He did empty himself of the form of God, He still retained its essential glory. He became a true human in all respects, yet remained divine.

Christ did not arrive in splendor and glory, but rather in weakness and poverty. He was born to a virgin; a delicate and helpless baby in a manger (Matthew 1:23).

He had no assumed position of worldly greatness, nor did he seek any. Christ came that He might save men and make them abundantly rich in glory (Matthew 8:20; 2 Corinthians 8:9). But make no mistake, Christ was a real man; being one in every way (Hebrews 2:17).

He was flesh and blood, meaning he also hungered for food, thirsted for drink, became tired and needed rest. But Christ did not just humble himself to the ways and form of a man. He graciously and gladly accepted the manifestation of a servant.

He said that He "did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many" (Matthew 20:28). And "came to seek and to save the lost" (Luke 19:10).

We are now at the final portion of our discussion where we will inquire into the period of Christ's incarnation and what He did. This was an important period with many significant and wonderful things being done during this time.

Notice here that His humiliation has clearly grown and become more evident. Christ desired to get much closer to us than the mere fact of His incarnation would show. Thus, He became the humble man, reaching down to save the worst sinners.

For example, Christ saved the wicked woman at Jacob's well in Samaria. He cast seven demons out of Mary Magdalene, opened the eyes of blind men, helped the deaf to hear again, the lame to walk, healed the sick, and even raised the dead (John 4:4–42; Luke 8:2).

Christ also became a suffering man (Isaiah 53:3; 1 Peter 3:18; Hebrews 13:12). He became so close to us, in sympathy and love, that He "he took up our pain and bore our suffering," was "punished by God, stricken by him, and afflicted," and "pierced for our transgressions; crushed for our iniquities" (Isaiah 53:4-5).

Christ's fate in respect to suffering was greater than to be wounded, bruised, and punished for us. He was to die for us in order to bring us back to God, which He willingly did. The tragic story of the cross and the scene on Calvary more than demonstrates this.

He suffered a despicable and humiliating death on the cross. His disciples forsook Him, and his friend's ran off.  False witnesses condemned Him in a mock trial, and His enemies nailed Him to the cross.

The sun withheld shining its light on that awful place, and darkness covered the earth. Christ cried out, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" (Matthew 27:46). "And when Jesus had cried out again in a loud voice, he gave up his spirit" (Matthew 27:50).

In conclusion, no matter what your state in life is at this very moment, know that Jesus Christ loved you enough to go through all the above and more, to save your guilty soul. Who else would do that..? Did He have to do this..? Of course not!

Christ set the standard of what unconditional love should be. He died for you and me. The motivating force behind his actions was His deep, undying love. Without question, all of us today need to re-visit and revive His example!

Scripture: Romans 5:8; 1 Corinthians 13:13; Philippians 2:6-8; John 1:14; Hebrews 10:10

Prayer: Dear Jesus, thank You for Your goodness and blessings, Your love, care, mercy and grace. I love You and need You today and always. To You alone I give praise and thanks. Amen.

May God always bless you,

Judith

Scripture Study with Bibi, Genesis 14:1-24

"Faith never knows where it is being led, but it loves and knows the One who is leading."  - Oswald Chambers

Last time, we saw growing tension between the groups of Abram and Lot. There was disagreement between the herdsmen of both parties regarding the pastureland for their increasing flocks. Something had to be done before things got any worse.

The obvious thing to do was to split up (Genesis 13:8-9). Abram then unselfishly offered a solution to Lot, he could choose for himself out of all the land before them. Lot picked all of the plain of Jordan (Genesis 13:10-11) and Abram stayed where he was (Genesis 13:11-12).

This week, we will continue on as we begin Genesis 14. As I mentioned, Abram and his family group had now separated from Lot and his. While Abram remained in Canaan, Lot moved on to the cities of the plain, which included Sodom.

Though at first it might appear that Abram gave up the best pasture land, God gave Canaan to him and all of his descendants forever. But this wasn't all! God invited Abram to check out the land so that he could see this for himself (Genesis 13:14-17).

Yes, from his point of view, Lot thought the plain of Jordan looked like a pretty good choice. It seemed rich and lush, just what he was looking for. But he saw it through "worldly" eyes. And as he would soon discover, the grass isn't always greener on the other side.

Before we start our study, I always like to encourage you all to read through the material beforehand. It always helps to begin with a good grasp of what we will be talking about. And, it will make it more meaningful, as well!

Let's begin with prayer: Dear LORD, as we meet together to learn, grow, and change in study, help us move into a deeper understanding of Your truth. Amen.

Now this week's study:

As chapter 14 opens, there is a war between four confederate kings, and the five kings of Canaan. The kings of Canaan are defeated, including a considerable part of the armies belonging to the kings of Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 14:1-10). Their cities were then plundered, and Lot, his family, and everything they owned were carried off (Genesis 14:11-12).

The simple fact that Lot was living in Sodom was enough to draw Abram into the conflict. Abram was living in Hebron at that time (Genesis 13:18), but he had a covenant with Mamre the Amorite and his brothers, Eschol and Aner (Genesis 14:13).

As it would turn out, this worked to Abram's advantage. As part of this covenant, these Amorites, with whom he had been living, had to fight alongside him.

1.) Abram eventually got word of what happened to his nephew, Lot. How did he find out? What did he do after that? (Genesis 14:13-14).

2.) Because Abram's force was much smaller in number they had to come up with a good plan of attack. What did Abram and his men do? How did his plan work out? (Genesis 14:15-16).

3.) Abram, while returning home with his spoils of war, was met by the king of Sodom at the Valley of Shaveh or, the King's Valley. While there, someone makes a sudden appearance. Who was this person? What did he bring? And what symbolic reference does it refer to? (Genesis 14:17-18).

4.) Melchizedek did something to Abram, and Abram did something in return. What was it that each did? (Genesis 14:19-20).

5.) Now, turning back to the king of Sodom, he makes an offer to Abram. What was the offer? (Genesis 14:21).

6.) However Abram, knew that he was destined for bigger and better things through God's help. What did Abram tell the king of Sodom he had done? Why did Abram do it? (Genesis 14:22-23).

7.) Even though Abram did not want any of the material things he had captured, he did agree to a few things from the king. What were they? 

This concludes our bible study for this week. Next time we will look at Genesis, chapter 15, where we will discuss God's covenant with Abram. Remember to read ahead, I promise you won't regret it!

Until then, have a blessed and safe weekend!

Scripture: Proverbs 28:20; Hebrews 11:1; 2 Corinthians 5:7; Deuteronomy 7:9; 1 Corinthians 10:13 

Prayer: Dear LORD, strengthen me with the hope of my salvation and the many other blessings you provide with your continuous presence in my life. Amen.

May you be generously blessed!

Bibi

Video - The Season of Lent (2/26/20 - 4/9/20)

We get a lot of questions about many different things at our ministry. And, from time to time we like to spend some time addressing some of them here on our blog. One of the these, especially at this time of year, is about the season of Lent. We hope that this informative video will help clarify some of your questions/and or concerns.

No matter what, always keep in mind that if you wish to observe Lent, remember to focus on the repentance of sin, and to dedicate yourself to God. The season is not for bragging about our sacrifices, or trying to earn points with God in order to garner His favor, or increase His love.

Friends, God already loves us more than we could ever know! So, if you wish to observe Lent, by all means do so, just be mindful of the reason why!   ~Eve

He Humbled Himself...(Part I)

"For the Christian, humility is absolutely indispensable. Without it there can be no self-knowledge, no repentance, no faith and no salvation."  - Aiden Wilson Tozer

I have noticed a quality characteristic that is lacking today in many people who hold positions of responsibility and trust. And perhaps, we don't hear about it that much anymore because our perception of what it is has become distorted and corrupted.

I'm speaking about "humility," or a modest view of one's own importance; otherwise known as humbleness. When it comes to examples of humility, many may refer to certain celebrities, sports stars, and others as their point of reference.

I call your attention to "humility" in its truest manifestation. The humiliation of Christ (Philippians 2:6-8), is the marvel of all time. One cannot even begin to describe the love, and driving force of this astonishing humiliation.

It would be quite correct to say that it is a matter of intense amazement to all God-created, intelligent, understanding. The thought that God, in his infinite wisdom and grace, gave His only Son to die for our wretched and ruined world is mind-boggling (John 3:16).

The precious stone of heaven, the tenderest, sweetest love of the Father was the gift of sacrifice to save fallen man. That priceless offering is the appraisal that God places on the salvation of a man or woman. Not one of us can overvalue his own salvation. (Matthew 16:26; Psalm 49:7-8).

Though we can not comprehend the grandeur, range, and depth of the humiliation of Christ, still, it benefits us to investigate and learn everything we can of what He has done for us. Before His incarnation He was in the form of God (John 1;1; Colossians 1:15; Hebrews 1:3).

Though Christ was equal with God (John 10:30), He never desired to appear in the glory of the Godhead while living among men. However, when He did demonstrate divine power it was only to accomplish a purpose.

Christ always put aside the dignity and majesty of His Heavenly character, except for the singular event of His transfiguration (Matthew 17:2-5; 2 Peter 1:16-18). Prior to His incarnation He had the worship and adoration of all the Heavenly hosts.

Now, being exalted and glorified, Christ has the same worship, honor, and glory as He did before His incarnation. That glory being the glory of the Father, which is both, difficult to reach, and beyond mere words.

Unquestionably, there was no limit to what Christ would do to save our guilty souls. Join me next week for He Humbled Himself (Part II), when we will conclude our message about the humiliation of God's beloved Son.

Scripture: John 3:30; Proverbs 22:4; James 4:6; Philippians 2:3; Psalm 25:9;

Prayer: Dear God, help me to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with You and not by pride or self-sufficiency. Amen.

May God always bless you,

Judith