Dear class,
The readings today are taken from 2Samuel 6:20-23; 2Samuel 7; 1Chronicles 17; Psalm 2; 110
Here we read of multiple references to the Messiah and his Kingship and Priesthood.
The passages in 2Sam and 1Chr spoke of David's desire to build a house for the Lord. We are told that in the end, it would be his son Solomon who would fulfil his desire. (2Sa 7:13; 1Chr 17:12)
Yet we note the deeper meaning behind this prophecy given through Nathan. Notice in 2Sa 7:13b,16b and 1Chr 17:12b, 4b "I will stablish the throne of his kingdom for ever" and the likes of it.
It is obvious that this referred not to the physical throne of David. What physical kingdom can? But an allusion to the Kingdom of heaven as Daniel would prophesy later in Daniel 2:44.
And it is also true that Jesus came out of the Davidic line (Isa 11:1; Mat 1:17; Luk 3:23,31, etc), and that He established the Church (Mat 16:18), which is the true house of God that He will dwell (1Ti 3:15; 1Co 3:16; 1Pe 2:5; Heb 3:6).
It is interesting to note, as both Peter and Paul pointed out to the Jews (Act 2:14-36; 13:15-42), all these were before them, which are "read every Sabbath day" (Act 13:27), yet it eluded them.
The Scriptures are clear in pointing to the Christ, the Messiah, the Prophet, Priest and King, whose Kingdom shall be forever, in whose house shall God truly dwell. Jesus Himself gave testimony direct from the Scriptures! (Luk 24:27)
And what a privilege it is to be part of the household of God (Eph 2:19) in whom all fulness dwell (Col 1:19), in which we will have all spiritual blessings in heavenly places (Eph 1:3)
The Lord bless our day ahead.
In Him
Paul
--
But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. ~ Hebrews 3:13
Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come. ~ 1 Corinthians 16:2
Thursday, April 24, 2014
Wednesday, April 23, 2014
Give Glory to God
Dear class,
Today's readings are taken from 1 Chronicles 16:4-43; Psalm 96; 98
As mentioned by bro Skip, these readings focus on praising God and His Glory.
Truly, God is worthy! Worthy of our praise and adoration. Worthy of all honor and glory.
Psa 96, gives us a glimpse of how we can glorify God.
in vv. 7-10
Psa 96:7 Give unto the LORD, O ye kindreds of the people, give unto the LORD glory and strength.
Psa 96:8 Give unto the LORD the glory due unto his name: bring an offering, and come into his courts.
Psa 96:9 O worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness: fear before him, all the earth.
Psa 96:10 Say among the heathen that the LORD reigneth: the world also shall be established that it shall not be moved: he shall judge the people righteously.
1) Kindreds of people
A family, a tribe, a class. Originally meaning the Israelite nation, the concept here is within the group, there is no distinction. There's no "clergy" and "laity". All who are in Christ have the same responsibility and indeed privilege of giving glory to God!
2) Due His name
His name is all sufficient! If anything else, God's magnificent name by itself is worthy of our glorification! What more that He is our sole Provider of all things, spiritual and physical and above all, the provider of our salvation in Christ Jesus.
3) Bring an offering/in his courts
It used to be animals and produce. Yet, the concepts as outlined by Samuel (1Sa 15:22) and David (Psa 51:17), held true in times past, as it is now. Summed up perfectly by none other than Jesus Himself (Jhn 4:23, 24). Samuel spoke of offering "in truth", that is to say, perfect obedience to God's commandments and David wrote of offering "in spirit", of our attitude and disposition. A further glimpse is offered by Paul, when he spoke of our lives as being "a living sacrifice" (Rom 12:1). Further practical aspects include our sacrifice of praise (Heb 13:15) and responsible stewardship of our resources (Heb 13:16; Phi 4:15-18).
In His courts or tabernacle basically means we need to be the right type of people before any thing can be acceptably offered. Besides being in Christ, those of us already in need to purify ourselves through godly living (Ti 2:12), giving diligence to a constant effort to examine and make right our lives (2Co 13:5; 1Jn 1:9) before God.
4) Say among the heathen
Spread the WORD! We are saved to "save"! To bring the message of an Almighty God, of His great love, manifested most powerfully in His sending of His only begotten, Christ Jesus; of the great salvation, available only through Christ, the Author and Finisher of our faith (Heb 12:2); of the impending judgment whereupon ALL will be judged (1Th 4:15-17; 2Th 1:8-10), the righteous unto everlasting life and the wicked unto eternal damnation.
Brethren! Give glory to God! For He is worthy! Let us be mindful of this privilege and responsibility, lest we be found wicked and slothful! (Mat 25:26-30)
The Lord bless our day ahead.
in Him
Paul
--
But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. ~ Hebrews 3:13
Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come. ~ 1 Corinthians 16:2
Today's readings are taken from 1 Chronicles 16:4-43; Psalm 96; 98
As mentioned by bro Skip, these readings focus on praising God and His Glory.
Truly, God is worthy! Worthy of our praise and adoration. Worthy of all honor and glory.
Psa 96, gives us a glimpse of how we can glorify God.
in vv. 7-10
Psa 96:7 Give unto the LORD, O ye kindreds of the people, give unto the LORD glory and strength.
Psa 96:8 Give unto the LORD the glory due unto his name: bring an offering, and come into his courts.
Psa 96:9 O worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness: fear before him, all the earth.
Psa 96:10 Say among the heathen that the LORD reigneth: the world also shall be established that it shall not be moved: he shall judge the people righteously.
1) Kindreds of people
A family, a tribe, a class. Originally meaning the Israelite nation, the concept here is within the group, there is no distinction. There's no "clergy" and "laity". All who are in Christ have the same responsibility and indeed privilege of giving glory to God!
2) Due His name
His name is all sufficient! If anything else, God's magnificent name by itself is worthy of our glorification! What more that He is our sole Provider of all things, spiritual and physical and above all, the provider of our salvation in Christ Jesus.
3) Bring an offering/in his courts
It used to be animals and produce. Yet, the concepts as outlined by Samuel (1Sa 15:22) and David (Psa 51:17), held true in times past, as it is now. Summed up perfectly by none other than Jesus Himself (Jhn 4:23, 24). Samuel spoke of offering "in truth", that is to say, perfect obedience to God's commandments and David wrote of offering "in spirit", of our attitude and disposition. A further glimpse is offered by Paul, when he spoke of our lives as being "a living sacrifice" (Rom 12:1). Further practical aspects include our sacrifice of praise (Heb 13:15) and responsible stewardship of our resources (Heb 13:16; Phi 4:15-18).
In His courts or tabernacle basically means we need to be the right type of people before any thing can be acceptably offered. Besides being in Christ, those of us already in need to purify ourselves through godly living (Ti 2:12), giving diligence to a constant effort to examine and make right our lives (2Co 13:5; 1Jn 1:9) before God.
4) Say among the heathen
Spread the WORD! We are saved to "save"! To bring the message of an Almighty God, of His great love, manifested most powerfully in His sending of His only begotten, Christ Jesus; of the great salvation, available only through Christ, the Author and Finisher of our faith (Heb 12:2); of the impending judgment whereupon ALL will be judged (1Th 4:15-17; 2Th 1:8-10), the righteous unto everlasting life and the wicked unto eternal damnation.
Brethren! Give glory to God! For He is worthy! Let us be mindful of this privilege and responsibility, lest we be found wicked and slothful! (Mat 25:26-30)
The Lord bless our day ahead.
in Him
Paul
--
But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. ~ Hebrews 3:13
Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come. ~ 1 Corinthians 16:2
Monday, April 21, 2014
Uzzah's Folly
Dear class,
Today's readings are taken from 2 Samuel 6:6-11; 1 Chronicles 13:9-14; Psalm 68; 1 Chronicles 15:1-14; Psalm 132
Here we read of the well known illustration of the dire importance of respecting God's authority and what it truly means to be pleasing to Him.
At the most casual read, it would seem a grossly unfair thing to happen to Uzzah, who seemed to have all the best intentions to steady the ark.
The bible is clear about the error of Uzzah (2Sa 6:7; 1Ch 13:10). Yet, one can't help but also realise that often, even innocent parties can be the victim of another's sins.
As we read on later in 1Chr 15, the error first committed on David's part was 3 fold -
(1) He did not seek God's advise, or turned a blind eye to God's previous instructions (1Chr 15:13)
(2) No one else, but the Levites should have supervised the move (1Chr 15:2;
(3) The authorised method was via human power on staves and not on a cart (1Chr 15:13; c.f. Ex 2:12-15)
If David had in the first place done as what God precisely required, Uzzah would not have died in this manner. (c.f. again 1Chr 15:13)
It is interesting how David responded at first instance :
2Sa 6:8 And David was displeased, because the LORD had made a breach upon Uzzah: and he called the name of the place Perezuzzah to this day.
2Sa 6:9 And David was afraid of the LORD that day, and said, How shall the ark of the LORD come to me?
1Ch 13:11 And David was displeased, because the LORD had made a breach upon Uzza: wherefore that place is called Perezuzza to this day.
1Ch 13:12 And David was afraid of God that day, saying, How shall I bring the ark of God home to me?
Anger, frustration, fear are a few of the most common human reactions when faced with obstacles, especially when one seemingly is doing work for the Lord.
Yet, the solution God has provided had always been, is always and will always be 2 words - Trust, Obey
However sincere, however zealous, however magnificent, yea...however "right", all human attempts at pleasing God will come to nought if not according to God's will!
As Samuel exhorted us "...Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams." (1 Sa 15:22)
The proverb writer hit home twice in Pro 14:12 and 16:25 -
"There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death."
It would be folly indeed to go about our way to establish righteousness on our terms! And just in case we think these are merely Old Testament examples in a bygone era, notice what Paul wrote in Rom 13:2-4
Rom 10:2 For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge.
Rom 10:3 For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God.
Rom 10:4 For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth.
Thus God's righteousness for us is to believe and render obedience to the gospel of Jesus Christ.
David's question was finally answered when he realised the folly of his first attempt at bringing back the Ark. One can't help but notice the similar predicament felt by the apostles when they queried Jesus about the possibility (or impossibility!) of one being saved (c.f.Mat 19:24, 25, etc). Jesus' simple yet also deeply profound reply, repeated in the 3 gospel accounts is the crux of it all:
"...With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible." (Mat 19:26b)
"...With men it is impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible." (Mar 10:27b)
"And he said, The things which are impossible with men are possible with God." (Luk 18:27)
As bro Demar Elam expressed it - Him-possible!
God has always provided the way. It is up to man to trust and obey.
Let us learn from these examples "written for our admonition" (1Co 10:11), and shy away from our own wisdom but continue to seek after God's righteousness in believing and obeying His will, for that is the only way man can be right and justified before Him.
The Lord bless our day ahead.
in Him
Paul
--
But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. ~ Hebrews 3:13
Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come. ~ 1Corinthians 16:2
Today's readings are taken from 2 Samuel 6:6-11; 1 Chronicles 13:9-14; Psalm 68; 1 Chronicles 15:1-14; Psalm 132
Here we read of the well known illustration of the dire importance of respecting God's authority and what it truly means to be pleasing to Him.
At the most casual read, it would seem a grossly unfair thing to happen to Uzzah, who seemed to have all the best intentions to steady the ark.
The bible is clear about the error of Uzzah (2Sa 6:7; 1Ch 13:10). Yet, one can't help but also realise that often, even innocent parties can be the victim of another's sins.
As we read on later in 1Chr 15, the error first committed on David's part was 3 fold -
(1) He did not seek God's advise, or turned a blind eye to God's previous instructions (1Chr 15:13)
(2) No one else, but the Levites should have supervised the move (1Chr 15:2;
(3) The authorised method was via human power on staves and not on a cart (1Chr 15:13; c.f. Ex 2:12-15)
If David had in the first place done as what God precisely required, Uzzah would not have died in this manner. (c.f. again 1Chr 15:13)
It is interesting how David responded at first instance :
2Sa 6:8 And David was displeased, because the LORD had made a breach upon Uzzah: and he called the name of the place Perezuzzah to this day.
2Sa 6:9 And David was afraid of the LORD that day, and said, How shall the ark of the LORD come to me?
1Ch 13:11 And David was displeased, because the LORD had made a breach upon Uzza: wherefore that place is called Perezuzza to this day.
1Ch 13:12 And David was afraid of God that day, saying, How shall I bring the ark of God home to me?
Anger, frustration, fear are a few of the most common human reactions when faced with obstacles, especially when one seemingly is doing work for the Lord.
Yet, the solution God has provided had always been, is always and will always be 2 words - Trust, Obey
However sincere, however zealous, however magnificent, yea...however "right", all human attempts at pleasing God will come to nought if not according to God's will!
As Samuel exhorted us "...Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams." (1 Sa 15:22)
The proverb writer hit home twice in Pro 14:12 and 16:25 -
"There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death."
It would be folly indeed to go about our way to establish righteousness on our terms! And just in case we think these are merely Old Testament examples in a bygone era, notice what Paul wrote in Rom 13:2-4
Rom 10:2 For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge.
Rom 10:3 For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God.
Rom 10:4 For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth.
Thus God's righteousness for us is to believe and render obedience to the gospel of Jesus Christ.
David's question was finally answered when he realised the folly of his first attempt at bringing back the Ark. One can't help but notice the similar predicament felt by the apostles when they queried Jesus about the possibility (or impossibility!) of one being saved (c.f.Mat 19:24, 25, etc). Jesus' simple yet also deeply profound reply, repeated in the 3 gospel accounts is the crux of it all:
"...With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible." (Mat 19:26b)
"...With men it is impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible." (Mar 10:27b)
"And he said, The things which are impossible with men are possible with God." (Luk 18:27)
As bro Demar Elam expressed it - Him-possible!
God has always provided the way. It is up to man to trust and obey.
Let us learn from these examples "written for our admonition" (1Co 10:11), and shy away from our own wisdom but continue to seek after God's righteousness in believing and obeying His will, for that is the only way man can be right and justified before Him.
The Lord bless our day ahead.
in Him
Paul
--
But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. ~ Hebrews 3:13
Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come. ~ 1Corinthians 16:2
Tuesday, April 15, 2014
Encouragement in the Lord
Dear class,
Today's readings are taken from 1Samuel 28-31 and 1Chronicles 12:19-22
In the conclusion of 1Samuel, we read of the tragic deaths of Saul and his sons, including David's bosom buddy, Jonathan.
Saul was one who had all the bells and whistles of a star-studded high flyer, yet his career ended in such a sorry state of affairs, having even to take his own life in the battlefield and mocked after death by enemies.
In contrast, David was one who had the least promising start, yet shone and continued shining, even as he too faced multiple challenges and temptations.
In Chapter 30, we read of how the families and possessions of his men, including his own, were taken by the Amalekites. In spite of his great distress, David found strength in the Lord and ultimately took back what they lost.
In v. 6 we read - "And David was greatly distressed; for the people spake of stoning him, because the soul of all the people was grieved, every man for his sons and for his daughters: but David encouraged himself in the LORD his God."
David's distress was at least 2 fold - he felt the inner loss and turmoil because of his own family. Then there was pressure from his people, who were almost ready to stone him! How did he overcome the great stress from the dire situation?
1) Prayer
Obviously, in present day, God does not speak to his people directly. Wisdom from above comes to us via the Word of God (c.f. Col 3:16; 1Co 13:8-10)
What it does mean for us, patterned in David's actions is for us to draw near to God via prayer. Remember our memory verse for last week? "Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need." (Heb 4:16)
And in David's situation, it was obviously an urgent time of dire need!
Far too often, we get ourselves all flustered and anxious, thinking furiously at best, moping and whining more likely and at worst, seize up and chose secular wisdom to find solutions to our problems.
Again, the bible tells us "In nothing be anxious; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God." (Phi 4:6 ASV)
What can we achieve by worrying? Truly, as our Great Master, Lord Jesus Christ said, "And which of you by being anxious can add one cubit unto the measure of his life?" (Mat 6:27) Time is much better spent conversing with our Father in heaven, to find comfort and to make our petitions known. And that is what David had done.
2) Immediate action
David does not just sit there and mope all day! After seeking advice from the Lord, he springs into immediate action with all haste.
Sometimes, it may not be an action related to the issue, but the idea here is, get a (godly) grip, get on your feet, and MOVE ON! There's nothing worse than wallowing in one's sins and sorrows, which will ultimately lead one into further temptation and in worst cases, point of no return. Getting busy in the right manner not only lifts us off discouragement but as a matter of fact is what we should do anyway!
It also means surrounding ourselves with the right people, encouraging people. People who can help us in all wisdom. David took 600 men, yet had to leave 200 behind who no longer had the will. To have 400 committed individuals was much more important than any other fainted-hearted number! We recall the account of Gideon and his valiant 300 (Jdg 7). A puny number compared to the enemy, yet proved to be far superior than anything else.
Let us all find encouragement in the Lord in times of distress, by drawing near to Him and to His people and be ever more zealous to do His good will.
The Lord bless our day ahead.
in Him
Paul
--
But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. ~ Hebrews 3:13
Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. ~ Philippians 4:6,7
Today's readings are taken from 1Samuel 28-31 and 1Chronicles 12:19-22
In the conclusion of 1Samuel, we read of the tragic deaths of Saul and his sons, including David's bosom buddy, Jonathan.
Saul was one who had all the bells and whistles of a star-studded high flyer, yet his career ended in such a sorry state of affairs, having even to take his own life in the battlefield and mocked after death by enemies.
In contrast, David was one who had the least promising start, yet shone and continued shining, even as he too faced multiple challenges and temptations.
In Chapter 30, we read of how the families and possessions of his men, including his own, were taken by the Amalekites. In spite of his great distress, David found strength in the Lord and ultimately took back what they lost.
In v. 6 we read - "And David was greatly distressed; for the people spake of stoning him, because the soul of all the people was grieved, every man for his sons and for his daughters: but David encouraged himself in the LORD his God."
David's distress was at least 2 fold - he felt the inner loss and turmoil because of his own family. Then there was pressure from his people, who were almost ready to stone him! How did he overcome the great stress from the dire situation?
1) Prayer
Obviously, in present day, God does not speak to his people directly. Wisdom from above comes to us via the Word of God (c.f. Col 3:16; 1Co 13:8-10)
What it does mean for us, patterned in David's actions is for us to draw near to God via prayer. Remember our memory verse for last week? "Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need." (Heb 4:16)
And in David's situation, it was obviously an urgent time of dire need!
Far too often, we get ourselves all flustered and anxious, thinking furiously at best, moping and whining more likely and at worst, seize up and chose secular wisdom to find solutions to our problems.
Again, the bible tells us "In nothing be anxious; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God." (Phi 4:6 ASV)
What can we achieve by worrying? Truly, as our Great Master, Lord Jesus Christ said, "And which of you by being anxious can add one cubit unto the measure of his life?" (Mat 6:27) Time is much better spent conversing with our Father in heaven, to find comfort and to make our petitions known. And that is what David had done.
2) Immediate action
David does not just sit there and mope all day! After seeking advice from the Lord, he springs into immediate action with all haste.
Sometimes, it may not be an action related to the issue, but the idea here is, get a (godly) grip, get on your feet, and MOVE ON! There's nothing worse than wallowing in one's sins and sorrows, which will ultimately lead one into further temptation and in worst cases, point of no return. Getting busy in the right manner not only lifts us off discouragement but as a matter of fact is what we should do anyway!
It also means surrounding ourselves with the right people, encouraging people. People who can help us in all wisdom. David took 600 men, yet had to leave 200 behind who no longer had the will. To have 400 committed individuals was much more important than any other fainted-hearted number! We recall the account of Gideon and his valiant 300 (Jdg 7). A puny number compared to the enemy, yet proved to be far superior than anything else.
Let us all find encouragement in the Lord in times of distress, by drawing near to Him and to His people and be ever more zealous to do His good will.
The Lord bless our day ahead.
in Him
Paul
--
But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. ~ Hebrews 3:13
Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. ~ Philippians 4:6,7
Thursday, April 3, 2014
Only Fear The Lord
Dear Class,
Today's reading is taken from 1 Samuel 11-13.
We further read of the exploits of the new king, Saul. Chapter 11 is one of those description of life that one wishes would never cease! Yet, as we read on, the success of Saul seemed to be rather short-lived. Barely into his first year, Saul committed his first transgression which was to herald his ultimate downfall as a king and as a person.
In the midst, Israel realised their folly of demanding a physical king. Yet as we've mentioned, God remains faithful to His people and continued to show grace to the obedient. In the latter part of chapter 12, Samuel just about summarises the formula to success in life, now and in eternity.
"Only fear the LORD, and serve him in truth with all your heart: for consider how great things he hath done for you." ~ 1Sa 12:24
Why should we fear the Lord?
1) He has done great things!
The Israelites would have to be blind to not see that fact. From the days of the Exodus, God has blessed them over and over and been faithful and merciful in spite of the numerous fallings away, most recently being the matter of appointing a king. Yet, while we shake our heads and wag our tongues, consider ourselves - hasn't God been abundantly good and merciful to us? Why, if anything He gave His Son for us! And promised us life eternal. How often are we so caught up in our tiny worlds and put God away from out minds?
How should we fear Him?
1) Putting away vain things (1Sa 12:21)
We know what they are! Solomon waxed lyrical about the vanities of worldly pleasures.
Things that sap away our time and energy from serving God. Be it physical activities or frivolous speech, strife, getting involved in webs of deceit.
In the passage all too familiar to us, John tells us to put our focus on the will of God and not on the love of the world (1Jn 2:15-17)
2) Trust and obey
The theme of a familiar favourite hymn. Do we believe in God? Then obey and do it!
Served Him in truth with all our hearts. It is that simple as it sounds. Belief and obedience are 2 sides of the same coin, so to speak. One cannot have one without the other.
3) Teach and pray (1Sa 12:23)
God has patterned for His children to be taught His ways and there needs to be continual and consistent teaching (Mat 28:20; 2Ti 2:2, etc). It is a constant endeavour! Let us not be complacent and negligent but continue to grow in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ, knowing very well, the lack of knowledge in the Lord will result in ultimate destruction (Hos 4:6).
Pray! The importance of this Christian privilege cannot be overstated. Notice what Samuel said, "...God forbid that I should sin against the LORD in ceasing to pray for you...". Not doing so, for one another, for the work of the Lord, for anyone/thing in need is sin! Truly as James wrote in James 4:17 "Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin."
Let us continue to fear the Lord, and only Him, and dedicate our lives in faithful service, always abounding in good works and prayer, that we be found holy and acceptable in Him.
The Lord bless our day ahead.
in Him
Paul
--
But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. ~ Hebrews 3:13
Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. ~ 1Thessalonians 5:17,18
Today's reading is taken from 1 Samuel 11-13.
We further read of the exploits of the new king, Saul. Chapter 11 is one of those description of life that one wishes would never cease! Yet, as we read on, the success of Saul seemed to be rather short-lived. Barely into his first year, Saul committed his first transgression which was to herald his ultimate downfall as a king and as a person.
In the midst, Israel realised their folly of demanding a physical king. Yet as we've mentioned, God remains faithful to His people and continued to show grace to the obedient. In the latter part of chapter 12, Samuel just about summarises the formula to success in life, now and in eternity.
"Only fear the LORD, and serve him in truth with all your heart: for consider how great things he hath done for you." ~ 1Sa 12:24
Why should we fear the Lord?
1) He has done great things!
The Israelites would have to be blind to not see that fact. From the days of the Exodus, God has blessed them over and over and been faithful and merciful in spite of the numerous fallings away, most recently being the matter of appointing a king. Yet, while we shake our heads and wag our tongues, consider ourselves - hasn't God been abundantly good and merciful to us? Why, if anything He gave His Son for us! And promised us life eternal. How often are we so caught up in our tiny worlds and put God away from out minds?
How should we fear Him?
1) Putting away vain things (1Sa 12:21)
We know what they are! Solomon waxed lyrical about the vanities of worldly pleasures.
Things that sap away our time and energy from serving God. Be it physical activities or frivolous speech, strife, getting involved in webs of deceit.
In the passage all too familiar to us, John tells us to put our focus on the will of God and not on the love of the world (1Jn 2:15-17)
2) Trust and obey
The theme of a familiar favourite hymn. Do we believe in God? Then obey and do it!
Served Him in truth with all our hearts. It is that simple as it sounds. Belief and obedience are 2 sides of the same coin, so to speak. One cannot have one without the other.
3) Teach and pray (1Sa 12:23)
God has patterned for His children to be taught His ways and there needs to be continual and consistent teaching (Mat 28:20; 2Ti 2:2, etc). It is a constant endeavour! Let us not be complacent and negligent but continue to grow in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ, knowing very well, the lack of knowledge in the Lord will result in ultimate destruction (Hos 4:6).
Pray! The importance of this Christian privilege cannot be overstated. Notice what Samuel said, "...God forbid that I should sin against the LORD in ceasing to pray for you...". Not doing so, for one another, for the work of the Lord, for anyone/thing in need is sin! Truly as James wrote in James 4:17 "Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin."
Let us continue to fear the Lord, and only Him, and dedicate our lives in faithful service, always abounding in good works and prayer, that we be found holy and acceptable in Him.
The Lord bless our day ahead.
in Him
Paul
--
But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. ~ Hebrews 3:13
Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. ~ 1Thessalonians 5:17,18
Wednesday, April 2, 2014
Rejecting God
Dear Class,
Today's reading is taken from 1Samuel 8-10.
Here we read of a stiff-necked nation, "jumping on the bandwagon" of the foreign nations, to go a whoring after a physical king of their own. And subsequently the anointing of the first king of Israel, Saul.
In 1Sa 8:7 - And the LORD said unto Samuel, Hearken unto the voice of the people in all that they say unto thee: for they have not rejected thee, but they have rejected me, that I should not reign over them.
Indeed, rejecting God applies not just to atheists or unbelievers! Often, even the Lord's people are found guilty of rejecting Him. When we fail to submit to His authority, but putting our worldly lusts before Him, we have rejected God.
Wherefore James wrote - Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God. (Jam 4:4)
Even spiritual authority can be substituted! Paul warned Timothy of the impending apostacy within the ranks - For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. (2Ti 4:3,4)
Notice in v.3 "but after their OWN lusts shall they HEAP to THEMSELVES teachers..." certainly sounds a lot like the Israelites wanting to appoint themselves kings just to follow the rest of the world. And the strangest thing is, man often chooses the "bad deal" even after he knows of the consequences! Samuel did warn the people of the consequences of a physical king, yet the people refused to listen.
Yet, in spite of their rejection, God in His great mercy, continues to offer His grace to His people, if they would continue to seek and serve Him (as we shall read later in 1Sa 12).
Brethren, let us be forewarned! There can be no other supreme Ruler in our lives! As His Holy people, we need to make the conscious decision to choose Him as our King and guide. And when we do fall, repent and continue to serve Him, for He is merciful to all who would submit to Him.
in Him
Paul
--
But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. ~ Hebrews 3:13
Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. ~ 1Thessalonians 5:17,18
Today's reading is taken from 1Samuel 8-10.
Here we read of a stiff-necked nation, "jumping on the bandwagon" of the foreign nations, to go a whoring after a physical king of their own. And subsequently the anointing of the first king of Israel, Saul.
In 1Sa 8:7 - And the LORD said unto Samuel, Hearken unto the voice of the people in all that they say unto thee: for they have not rejected thee, but they have rejected me, that I should not reign over them.
Indeed, rejecting God applies not just to atheists or unbelievers! Often, even the Lord's people are found guilty of rejecting Him. When we fail to submit to His authority, but putting our worldly lusts before Him, we have rejected God.
Wherefore James wrote - Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God. (Jam 4:4)
Even spiritual authority can be substituted! Paul warned Timothy of the impending apostacy within the ranks - For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. (2Ti 4:3,4)
Notice in v.3 "but after their OWN lusts shall they HEAP to THEMSELVES teachers..." certainly sounds a lot like the Israelites wanting to appoint themselves kings just to follow the rest of the world. And the strangest thing is, man often chooses the "bad deal" even after he knows of the consequences! Samuel did warn the people of the consequences of a physical king, yet the people refused to listen.
Yet, in spite of their rejection, God in His great mercy, continues to offer His grace to His people, if they would continue to seek and serve Him (as we shall read later in 1Sa 12).
Brethren, let us be forewarned! There can be no other supreme Ruler in our lives! As His Holy people, we need to make the conscious decision to choose Him as our King and guide. And when we do fall, repent and continue to serve Him, for He is merciful to all who would submit to Him.
in Him
Paul
--
But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. ~ Hebrews 3:13
Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. ~ 1Thessalonians 5:17,18
Tuesday, April 1, 2014
Hardened Hearts
Dear Class,
Today's reading is from 1Samuel 4-7
We read of the great defeat of the Israelites against the Philiistines which also saw the demise of Eli and his sons as well as the capture of the ark.
Just a quick observation today in 1Sa 6:6
Wherefore then do ye harden your hearts, as the Egyptians and Pharaoh hardened their hearts? when he had wrought wonderfully among them, did they not let the people go, and they departed?
Sometime back when we mentioned about God hardening the hearts of men, we alluded to the fact that it is man that makes the choice to harden his heart. God merely allows that to happen as a consequence of the free will that he has given man.
This passage here clearly illustrates the point. Considering the fact that this was some 500 years after the exodus, the impact of the 10 plagues and the vanquished Egyptian army must have been exceedingly great on the people of the land in those days. Yet it is abundantly clear to the observers that even the enemies of God had a choice! The priests and diviners of the Phillistines, for all their worth did actually dish out some good advice! They knew it was pointless to go against the God of Israel. Hardened hearts against God Almighty led to certain death and destruction.
Let us be reminded that even as foreign nations could do nothing but acknowledge the power of God, yea, even the devils themselves (c.f. Jam 2:19), what more us as Christians, "a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people" (1Pe 2:9)? Let our hearts be never hardened but always tender and contrite, which is the essence of acceptable sacrifice to God (Psa 51:17).
in Him
Paul
--
But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. ~ Hebrews 3:13
Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. ~ 1Thessalonians 5:17,18
Today's reading is from 1Samuel 4-7
We read of the great defeat of the Israelites against the Philiistines which also saw the demise of Eli and his sons as well as the capture of the ark.
Just a quick observation today in 1Sa 6:6
Wherefore then do ye harden your hearts, as the Egyptians and Pharaoh hardened their hearts? when he had wrought wonderfully among them, did they not let the people go, and they departed?
Sometime back when we mentioned about God hardening the hearts of men, we alluded to the fact that it is man that makes the choice to harden his heart. God merely allows that to happen as a consequence of the free will that he has given man.
This passage here clearly illustrates the point. Considering the fact that this was some 500 years after the exodus, the impact of the 10 plagues and the vanquished Egyptian army must have been exceedingly great on the people of the land in those days. Yet it is abundantly clear to the observers that even the enemies of God had a choice! The priests and diviners of the Phillistines, for all their worth did actually dish out some good advice! They knew it was pointless to go against the God of Israel. Hardened hearts against God Almighty led to certain death and destruction.
Let us be reminded that even as foreign nations could do nothing but acknowledge the power of God, yea, even the devils themselves (c.f. Jam 2:19), what more us as Christians, "a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people" (1Pe 2:9)? Let our hearts be never hardened but always tender and contrite, which is the essence of acceptable sacrifice to God (Psa 51:17).
in Him
Paul
--
But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. ~ Hebrews 3:13
Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. ~ 1Thessalonians 5:17,18
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