LEARNING DAILY

Luke 15:31-32, And he said to him, “Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours. It was fitting to celebrate and be glad, for this your brother was dead, and is alive; he was lost and is found."

Jesus shares a story about two sons. One had squandered his inheritance on sinful and immoral living that caused him to be lost in loneliness. He finally realized how lost he was and decided to go back home, knowing he could not repay his father; the only thing he could do was humbly ask for his forgiveness.

There was another brother, the older son, who becomes enraged at the thought his father would receive back his brother. The father was even going to throw a great party in the son’s honor. The older son had never had any idea of his lostness. He had lived within the wealth of his father without the realization that he needed to die to self. “It was fitting to celebrate and be glad, for this your brother was dead, and is alive; he was lost and is found." These verses are about the father’s response to the older brother’s jealousy about a party to given for his younger brother’s return. The Lord Jesus is speaking about God’s love and forgiveness for all sinners! It never changes.

The celebration in this story speaks of God’s enormous love and mercy for each of us. Take some time to remember the greatness of God in saving you, and the time He has spent changing you. Remember the times you stepped or stumbled off the narrow way and how He welcomed you back on it once you came to Him with a humble heart of repentance. It has been said and written many times that God is a God of forgiveness and second chances. Perhaps you can say with me that He is a God of many chances! That seems to be at the very center of His love for each of His children, those who believe and follow Him. Let this be an encouragement for any reading this – no matter how far you may have strayed from God He is waiting and watching with open arms to forgive and welcome you back. Just like the father in the parable God rejoices when one of His returns to Him so He can smother him/her in His unconditional love. This is for anyone, no matter where you are on your spiritual journey.

“And he said to him, ‘Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours.’” This father’s reassurance to his oldest son is a reminder of God’s constant love and presence in the lives of Believers. Let that statement get deep into your spirit. “You are always with me.” Signifies that God’s love never changes and He is with Believers through every circumstance they face. “All that is mine is yours.” Do you understand that this is a promise of inheritance and blessing for all who are faithful? It might not be right now; it certainly is for all eternity for all who persevere in their relationship with God!

“It was fitting to celebrate and be glad.” God celebrates when a sinner repents; it is an invitation for each Believer to join in.  In this world of uncertainty, with all that is trying to make us fear tomorrow, it is a reminder to reflect on the significance of remaining faithful to God knowing that the Believer’s obedience will be met with an eternal inheritance and God’s blessings.

 

LEARNING DAILY

Psalm 139:13-14, For You formed my inward parts; You knitted me together in my mother 's womb. I praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are Your works; my soul knows it very well.

I just returned from an early eye appointment for my wife. As we sat in the waiting room to see the doctor, I watched the programs on the television describing different treatments for eye problems (I’ sure you will understand the amount of time we had to watch the program and how many times it repeated itself). It was easy to think about the words of David in Psalm 139. Read the verses above again. Then consider how wonderfully made you are. Consider your eye. The program told of the different things that could go wrong and the treatment for each.

I had to do a little research about this body created. Just a little of what I found: the heart beats about 70 times per minute (Yes, that varies with the individual.) and pumps about 2,000 gallons of blood per day. An average body contains 100 trillion cells. The brain contains 100 billion nerve cells. Human kidneys process about 130 quarts of blood to filter waste and water. Our skeletal system has 206 bones connected to an intricate system of tendons, cartilage, and ligaments. The length of the small intestine stretched out could be 25 feet, the large intestine 5 feet and the arteries, capillaries, and veins extend from 60,000 t0 100,000 miles (that is 4 times around the earth). I stopped with that because I was overwhelmed.

I’m not sure David’s words give enough credit to what God made. To those who believe man evolved out of a single-cell thing that flopped onto the beach from the ocean, I say that takes more faith than believing God created man and woman in His own image! Every single person – male, female, regardless of skin color, age, or whichever political party you belong to is someone that is created in the image of God and known completely by Him!

Consider this, also. No two humans are completely identical. Believers need to recognize the miraculous and intimate nature you have as God’s creation; you have great value and purpose to Him. You have been made intentionally by God for a particular purpose while on this earth. Do not underestimate that! David’s use of phrases like “You created my inward parts” and “You knitted me together in my mother 's womb” suggest God is very involved in every aspect of your being. They suggest His involvement goes beyond just a physical formation; He cares about every aspect of the Believer’s life – emotionally and spiritually.

Every Believer has been created to give honor and praise to the One who created them; you are where you are by the deliberate design of God. May this be a reminder and inspiration to live in a way that that fulfills God’s plan and purpose for your life.

 

LEARNING DAILY

Psalm 119:75-77, I know, Lord, that your laws are righteous, and that in faithfulness you have afflicted me. May your unfailing love be my comfort, according to your promise to your servant. Let your compassion come to me that I may live, for your law is my delight.

The writer of this Psalm knows that God created him; because of that he can accept hardships (God’s loving discipline) that come his way. He writes with the hope others who believe in the Lord will be able to face God’s discipline with the same determination as he does. Hebrews 12:6, “For the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and chastises every son whom he receives." God’s discipline is to draw Believers closer to Him, not drive them away.

Psalm 119:73-80 is about the Psalmist and Believer acknowledging that God has made us (Psalm 139). We diligently seek Him for understanding and guidance while being committed to walk His narrow way following His commandments and teaching in His Word. DC Adkisson’s notes on this portion of the Psalm stated, “He who desires to learn more must be thankful for what he already knows. We seek to be fully satisfied with God; God is right whatever may have happened. God’s judgments are right. God’s afflictions are done faithfully. It is God’s right to deal with us as He sees fit. Knowing this leads to understanding God is faithful even in affliction.”  

When Believers face challenges, God’s faithful love sees us through them. It is His love for each Believer that gives him/her the strength to persevere in them; His unwavering hand lifts the Believer up when he/she stumbles. Every Believer should find comfort and reassurance that he/she is not alone in their struggles. That is a reminder of the importance to be in God’s Word, to seek guidance and to keep grounded in truth. Each Believer needs this in a world where uncertainty abounds. Hold on to His promises, finding peace knowing His love and guidance is always with you!

All of this is centered in the Believer aligning their actions, thoughts, and beliefs with the teachings and principles of the Bible. That is why you read in this blog to daily read/study/meditate on the Word of God. It gives us teaching about living in a way that reflects the God’s love, grace, and truth. It is many examples of the results of being obedient to God and trusting in Him. This is achieved when Believers gain a deeper understanding of God’s character and His plans for their lives. Studying and meditating on God’s Word daily helps Believers to gain a deeper understanding of God’s character and helps us be able to make choices that reflect and honor Him.

Every Believer needs to be praying daily for guidance, strength, and wisdom from the Holy Spirit as they walk the narrow way in obedience. The temptations faced are too great to try to walk the narrow way alone. Pray for dedication, perseverance, and a greater reliance on the Holy Spirit each day.

Every Believer can have a strong relationship with the Lord through the transforming power of God’s Word and the power of the Holy Spirit. When the trials come, may each of you find comfort and help in God’s love. May your strength in Him be seen by others, encouraging them about the truth of God’s Word.

 

LEARNING DAILY

2 Corinthians 5:19-20, For God was in Christ, reconciling the world to himself, no longer counting people’s sins against them. And he gave us this wonderful message of reconciliation. So, we are Christ’s ambassadors; God is making his appeal through us. We speak for Christ when we plead, 'Come back to God!'

Pastor Jonathon Moore continued his series on Decide to Thrive this weekend. In the third message he talked about The Purpose Decision – What you do with the gift/talent God has given you. Audrey wrote in her sermon notes, “We often tie our purpose to our occupation or think our talent is our purpose. But our purpose is what we do with that talent or job.” Pastor said the verses from 2 Corinthians above show that every Believer is God’s ambassador – that is our purpose. “He has placed us where He wants for His purpose. He places people in our path for His purpose” (JM). Audrey wrote, “All of our purpose leads back to us being a minister of reconciliation.” Pastor related the calling of the disciples in Matthew 4:19 by Jesus and Jesus talking to the woman at the well in John 4 as people being placed in the path of Believer’s. For Believers these are opportunities to share our faith with those God places in our path.

The disciples did not understand Jesus talking to the Samaritan woman. “Jews did not talk to Samaritans. They did not understand the opportunity before them” (JM). In John 4:35, Jesus told the disciples the fields were ripe for the harvest. Believers must begin to see the opportunity before them today. Audrey wrote, “Jesus is asking all of us to open and lift our eyes to see the people desperate for an encounter with the One they [the Believer] have already had an encounter with.” I believe Pastor Moore was right when he said, “People do not feel responsible for the things they do not see. Open your eyes to the needs around you!”

He gave three thoughts on what Believers can do. One, “Accept personal responsibility.” Acts 20:24, “But my life is worth nothing to me unless I use it for finishing the work assigned me by the Lord Jesus — the work of telling others the Good News about the wonderful grace of God.” The enemy would try to get you to believe sharing the gospel should not be done – cultural barriers (JM). He related this back to Jesus sharing with the Samaritan woman. The enemy would want Believers to not feel or do anything regarding sharing the gospel. But is that not our purpose? Audrey wrote, “we may not be asked to completely bring someone to Christ, but it is our responsibility to plant a seed in them and then ask God to continue the work through you [or someone else].”

Second, “Share your personal story.” Be aware of the “barriers” that keep you from sharing your faith – fear and insecurity, lack of knowledge, misconceptions about evangelism (from Decide to Thrive booklet). Share where you found a changed life and how God has changed your life. “People may argue about theology and doctrine, but they cannot argue with your personal story” (JM).

And last, “Give a personal invitation.” “Every Jesus story begins with another relationship attached to it” (Audrey’s notes). I can agree with the statement Pastor Moore made, “I know Jesus because someone shared Jesus with me!” John1:46, Nathanael said to him, "Can anything good come out of Nazareth?" Philip said to him, "Come and see."

 

LEARNING DAILY

Psalm 23:5-6, You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

Pastor Ed Newton continued his teaching on the oil, the anointing oil, by referring to Psalm 23. He related how the shepherds would pour oil on the sheep to protect from flies. If this did not happen flies would get in the ears and nose of the sheep. [Imagine a fly getting into your ear or nose and the trial that would cause.] Pastor said the sheep’s life depended on the shepherd doing this. The oil would also aid the sheep to heal when it had fallen and prevented infection from setting in when it had scrapped or cut itself.

“You anoint my head with oil.” Like the shepherd pours oil over the sheep, God sends His Holy Spirit to live within the Believer the moment salvation occurs. God anoints Believers with His oil to protect their mind, to restore them, to heal them and to cause them to thrive (Sermon notes). Believers are to put on the armor of God each day – you can relate that to God’s anointing. “Opposition will come! Our Shepherd will sustain the Believer” (EN).

“My cup overflows.” “This is a strong statement about the Holy Spirit’s covering – it moves from our head and flows to other parts of the Believer’s life. The anointing has now been placed in the Believer’s hand” (EN). Pastor said the cup represents one’s calling. Psalm 16:5, “The Lord is my chosen portion and my cup; you hold my lot.” “Through the overflow, God not only filled David’s life, but it also affected others. God fills your cup [the Believer’s] according to your calling; the cup represents your ability to do what He has called you to do – with His help and guidance. That means your obedience to faithfully carry the “cup” God has given to you; your assignment has been given to you by Jesus and is not to be compared to another” (EN). Psalm 15:6, “The lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; indeed, I have a beautiful inheritance.” “Past experiences prepare us for today. God’s assignments happen according to God’s timing; He decides when that time is. The Believer must often endure, be patient until that time comes.” Acts 17:26, “From one man he created all the nations throughout the whole earth. He decided beforehand when they should rise and fall, and he determined their boundaries.” (NLT).

“Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” Pastor stated this is not just a hopeful statement. Believers can be confident in their Shepherd. This is about God’s goodness and His mercy. Goodness refers to God causing all things to work for our benefit and speaks to His faithfulness in the things happening around us. Mercy means God stays committed to us when we do not deserve it; mercy addresses the things within us. (Sermon notes and EN).  God pursues you, Believer! That is putting goodness and mercy together to find favor (EN). “Favor chases you to give you clarity. It chases you when you need strength, when you are weak. God never changes even when your circumstances do. He is faithful even when you are not” (EN).

Pastor Newton ended his message with saying your anointing is to lead others to the One who anointed you. God’s favor is not given to you for just this moment; God anoints you for a mission. Allow your anointing to be seen by others and share what God has done in your life. Allow His anointing to flow through you for others to see.

 

LEARNING DAILY

Psalm 19:14, Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.

I know it is Saturday and I do not usually send the blog out. It just seems right to send one more page out on what God demands of Believers. Oh, to be able to hit the delete key for the words we speak. I have wished I could do that many times. May Jesus transform my heart and every heart reading this that have said unkind words to others. I am so thankful that the work of Jesus on the cross of calvary can transform a heart that desires to take control of their tongue. “Only Jesus Christ living in us can help us honor Him and bless others with our words” (OS Hawkins).

Stay safe and warm during the coming cold spell!

 LEARNING DAILY

James 3:8-10, But no man can tame the tongue. It is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison. With it we bless our God and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in the similitude of God. Out of the same mouth proceed blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not to be so.

Today is a follow-up to yesterday’s page of the blog. Zechariah told the people God wanted them to be honest with their communication with others. Tell the truth and do not scheme against others. James wrote that mankind has been able to tame wild animal but is unable to tame their own tongue; in other words, we have difficulty controlling the words we say. Our tongues are more powerful than we are; they control us like a bit in a horse’s mouth controls it. Sadly, most of us know by experience exactly what problems and hurt our words can cause others.

James does not write that Believers are to give up on trying to control their speech. He wrote in verse 26, “If you claim to be religious but don’t control your tongue, you are fooling yourself, and your religion is worthless.” If one does not control the words that come out of their mouth, their religion is worthless. Remember Zechariah told the people God hates dishonesty, telling lies, and dishonest judgment. I know the word “religion” tends to be associated with keeping rituals or rules hoping to earn God’s favor. But those saved by Jesus Christ have already found favor in their salvation. Now they seek His strength and power to live the way He wants. That means speaking in a way that honors Him.

James wrote that no one can tame the tongue through their own willpower. However, Believers are called to walk the narrow way in obedience to God and only say what is good and helpful, to exercise self-control, to get rid of unkind speech, and to speak what is good. Ephesians 4:29, “Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.” Colossians 3:8, “But now you must put them all away: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and obscene talk from your mouth.” Jesus said that on the day of judgment Believers will have to give an account for every idle word they speak, Matthew 12:36-37, “I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak, for by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned." That judgment will not determine destination or one’s salvation; it will determine eternal rewards. This relates the Believer’s daily life to the principle that what we speak reveals what is in our heart.

Left to deal with this problem on our own will not bring victory. None of us can tame this tongue of ours. Only through the power of Christ in us, by yielding to and relying on the power of the Holy Spirit are we able to overcome sin and the terrible evil that our tongues can produce. Each Believer must offer themselves as a living and holy sacrifice to God, giving Him control over our tongue. Romans 12:1, “I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.” What you and I are not capable of doing, God can do in us!

 

LEARNING DAILY

Zechariah 8:15- 17, But now I am determined to bless Jerusalem and the people of Judah. So don’t be afraid. But this is what you must do: Tell the truth to each other. Render verdicts in your courts that are just and that lead to peace. Don’t scheme against each other. Stop your love of telling lies that you swear are the truth. I hate all these things, says the Lord.

The words spoken by Zachariah in chapter eight give a glimpse of God’s plan for His people and the city of Jerusalem. He speaks to the people words of a time of peace, prosperity, and a city that is filled with the presence of God. God speaks through the prophet of the coming of the Messiah who will establish His eternal kingdom. Zechariah reminds the people of God’s love for them and His desire to restore them in order to encourage them during the challenges they face. Zackariah tells the people to remain true to following the Lord and His command because He will do what He has said to them.

 “So don’t be afraid. But this is what you must do.” I believe that every encounter with God comes with the expectation for a response. God was going to bless His people; their response was to be worthy of Him. “Prophecy has never been given to merely satisfy one’s curiosity. God expects our hope for the future to cause us to seek Him and His kingdom with greater intensity and commitment” (Life in the Spirit Study Bible). James 1:22, “But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves” (NLT). 1John 3:3, “And all who have this eager expectation will keep themselves pure, just as he is pure” (NLT).

“But this is what you must do.” Zechariah speaks to this people words that apply to every Believer today. He emphasizes, honesty, integrity, and justice in interactions with other people. Speaking truth to those around us should create an atmosphere of open conversation and, hopefully, mutual respect. Honesty in our communication seems to be more difficult in this world we live in. Zechariah mentions justice. Those in the legal system need to be reminded about the need for fairness and equity as judgments are made. It is a reminder that true and sound judgments are to be made equally for all individuals. Judgments are not to be based on personalities and politics.

Integrity has always been important in one’s interaction with others. Integrity for the Believer is following, being obedient to biblical truths found in God’s Word. Zechariah is reminding Believers to make a personal commitment to speak truth and practice doing the right thing in business and in their personal lives; begin by examining if there are areas of compromise in biblical teaching. Zechariah’s words to not only hear the truth but to live it out each day as decisions are made and interaction with others happens.

 

LEARNING DAILY

Psalm 119:71, It is good for me that I was afflicted, that I might learn your statutes. (ESV)

Psalm 119:71, My suffering was good for me, for it taught me to pay attention to your decrees. (NLT)

Take the time to read Psalm 119:65-72 for the full context of today’s page of the blog.

I think I might be my own worst enemy. As I look back over my walk with the Lord, I see so many mistakes that have been said and done. I can see the harm done as I have walked the narrow way, stepping off it to try to live my way. But each time I did, I realized that my way was not a good way as it brought nothing but heartaches. In this sinful and fallen world, it is easy to make bad choices and experience life that is bad. This verse from Psalm 119 is so important because it shows God has purpose in our afflictions; that purpose is good. Has anyone else experienced how the Lord’s discipline can bring you back to truth, and out of error? Adversity and challenges should lead every Believer to growth and spiritual maturity. As you consider this in your own life, find comfort and strength in your struggles.

The struggles are real. It seems when one has overcome something else comes along. The question is where you turn for help. Suffering and challenges can result in spiritual development and a greater desire to be obedient to the will God has set for Believers in His Word. I have found that seeking God’s guidance has helped me have a greater ability to be obedient to His commands when going through difficulties.

Perhaps you have found your faith growing during a particular difficulty being faced because you sought God in prayer, seeking His comfort and guidance. Was your faith strengthened? Did your faith grow? Did you sense His presence with you as you went through your situation? Did your situation, your suffering lead you toward greater obedience to His will? There are various forms of “suffering.” It can come in physical form, emotional situations, or in spiritual attacks. When the struggles come, look at them as opportunities to grow and gain a deeper understanding of God’s will.

How does suffering lead to spiritual growth? I believe God uses these times to draw Believers to Him.  Verse 67 says, “Before I was afflicted I went astray, but now I keep your word.” Verse 71 states it was good to be afflicted. It brings the Believer back to walking the narrow way. It serves as a purifying or cleansing tool in the believer’s life. Precious metals are purified through intense heat; the same applies to the believer’s walk. Facing these challenges can force Believers to rely on God and his guidance to persevere; Believers may be forced to seek and lean on Him which causes their trust in Him to grow deeper. It helps Believers recognize their limitations and be dependent on Him.

Let the challenges you are facing right now help you in your walk on the narrow way, trusting God to grow and change you into who He wants you to be. Trust in His guidance.

 

LEARNING DAILY

Mark 12:30, “And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these."

“A thriving life begins with making consistent decisions based upon Biblical values” said Jonathon Moore, lead pastor at NorthRock Church. He used Genesis 1:26 to remind us we are made in the image of God and are to reflect His divine qualities – based upon Biblical valuers. He said, “The quality of your life is determined by your relationships.” (Audrey’s sermon notes). Believers are to love God first and then love their neighbors.

Audrey noted, “It is not Biblical to ignore your relationship with God. You need Jesus and others.” “Be careful not to succeed in business and fail in your relationships. God designed us for relationship, to grow us and to challenge us to move forward” (JM). In Genesis 2:18 God looked at Adam and said it is not good for man to be alone. Solitude is not good. Adam had a relationship with God, but he needed more.

Pastor Moore said there are three common enemies of relationships. The first is “independence” – the lone wolf. Audrey wrote, “The more you mature in your relationship with Jesus, the more you realize you depend on Him.” 1 Corinthians 12:18-19 tells us, “But as it is, God arranged the members in the body, each one of them, as he chose. If all were a single member, where would the body be?” Every Believer is a part of the body of Christ; each part is important and necessary. God has given each person gifts and talents that are to be used to help the body function. “Be interdependent on others” (Audrey’s notes). “The antidote to independence is humility” (JM).

The second common enemy of relationships is “insecurity.” “Satan wants to keep us alone” (JM). He will try to make the Believer insecure (uncertain, lacking in confidence, self-doubting) so we do not step into God’s plan” (Audrey’s notes). Every Believer needs another person to talk to about their fear, needs, and to even their secrets. James 5:16 tells us, “Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed.” That takes a close, special friend. “The antidote to insecurity is honesty” (JM).

The third common enemy to relationships is “isolation.” Proverbs 18:1, “Whoever isolates himself seeks his own desire; he breaks out against all sound judgment.” “When we are alone with our thoughts, we start to believe them” (JM). There might be moments when all of us have experienced this. “The antidote to isolation is connection” (JM).

Pastor Moore finished his message with three thoughts about relationships. Prioritize your relationships. Be intentional about building relationships; they do not happen by accident. He said to be a servant. Look for ways to serve others while expecting nothing in return. Audrey wrote, “Relationships thrive when we take the posture of Jesus. Pastor said, “Do not be a servant only when it is convenient, support others. The last thought he shared was to be forgiving. “Relationships involve imperfect people – including you.” Jesus was adamant about forgiveness. When He taught the Lord’s Prayer, He taught us to pray, “Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who have sinned against us” (Matthew 6:12, NLT).

 

LEARNING DAILY

2 Kings 4:1-3, Now the wife of one of the sons of the prophets cried to Elisha, "Your servant my husband is dead, and you know that your servant feared the Lord, but the creditor has come to take my two children to be his slaves." And Elisha said to her, "What shall I do for you? Tell me; what have you in the house?" And she said, "Your servant has nothing in the house except a jar of oil." Then he said, "Go outside, borrow vessels from all your neighbors, empty vessels and not too few.”

The widow of one of the prophets is in trouble. Pastor Ed Newton explained this weekend that this situation was caused by the death of a man belonging to the company of prophets had died and left his widow with debt. The debt was going to have to be paid by her two sons being placed into slavery. She approaches the prophet Elisha, seeking his help because her situation is very serious.

Pastor pointed out that Elisha did not ask what her debts were. He did not ask where her husband was so he could raise him from the dead. He asked, “What shall I do for you? Tell me; what have you in the house?” Her answer was that she had a jar of oil. Pastor made clear that her husband was a prophet; he carried oil with him to be used in ministry. Elisha tells her to have her sons go borrow all the vessels they could from the neighbors. “He does not tell them a specific number nor the size of the vessel – the vessel only needed to be empty” (EN).  The sons were motivated to get as many as they could; they did not want to go into slavery. I imagine they asked and searched for all the “empty” vessels they could find. Doing this is crucial as it would take an act of faith on the widow and her sons to follow his guidance diligently.

The scripture does not tell how many vessels were collected; the assumption is many were collected. Elisha instructed them to go inside and shut the door behind them and pour the oil from their own vessel into the ones collected. They did as instructed and the oil did not stop flowing until all the vessels collected were filled. Pastor noted the obedience of the wife and sons and said, “The miracle takes place in the home. The anointing oil was poured out in private, not in public. There are times when a miracle is given in private – just for the person receiving the miracle. Solitude may be necessary to receive miracle!”

The oil flowed until there were no more vessels. “Then the oil stopped flowing” (verse 6). “The oil flows with the purpose to fill an empty vessel. The source of the flowing oil was heaven” (EN). The need was for a vessel to be filled (EN). There is no doubt that if the sons knew what was going to happen, they would have done their best to find more vessels. The oil was there all the time; they just needed to have the vessels to be filled. Notice that Elisha told them to sell the vessels, pay off the debt, and live off what was left over.

Jesus covered the debt each saved person had – past, present, future! The oil is a reference to the Holy Spirit. When one is saved by the blood of Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit comes to live with him/her. “The Holy Spirit never leaves the Believer; when the Believer sins, he/she does not spring a leak and lose any of the Holy Spirit” (EN). Because Jesus paid the Believer’s debt in full, he/she can live in the abundance of His sacrifice and the filling of the Holy Spirit in their life.

 

LEARNING DAILY

Zephaniah 3:5, But the Lord is still there in the city, and He does no wrong. Day by day He hands down justice, and He does not fail. But the wicked know no shame. (NLT)

One more verse out of Zephaniah that seems to me to apply to people today. The people of Jerusalem grieved God. There was moral decay everywhere. The leaders perverted the law and used their positions unjustly. The prophets altered God’s message to gain popularity and approval of the people. And, the priests violated God’s principles and lived immoral lives; they promoted worldliness and immorality in God’s name.

Zephaniah’s words are a reminder that God’s character never changes; He will never lower His standards to accommodate the sins of leaders or anyone else. He always remains righteous and what He does is always righteous and according to what is right and fair. Knowing and believing that should help every Believer have faith in God’s goodness and trust His plans for them. Even when things are not going like we want or when we do not understand, Believers must stay faithful.

God’s righteousness never wavers, never fails! It is good to meditate on this verse and strive to align our lives with His righteousness and His just ways. Look at what is happening in the world, and one must know judgment is coming. But living in this sinful and immoral world Believers must remember God is among His people and “He does no wrong.” It is an emphasis on God’s commitment to keeping righteousness and is going to remain constant in His faithfulness to His followers. “Day by day He hands down justice.” Every day He executes justice. Every day His faithfulness is the same.

“But the wicked know no shame.” There will continue to be individuals who persist in their sinfulness and immoral behaviors, disregarding God’s standards. That challenges me to continually evaluate my actions and attitudes through God’s expectations and standards.

I would really like to see leaders, both spiritually and in government, lead in humility that comes from a deep understanding that their authority and position comes because God has placed them where they are for His purpose. The role of leaders is not to exalt themselves and glory in what they have done. No, it is to guide others in humility in their spiritual journey. Pride and ego cloud one’s judgment and how they interact with others; true humility leads with integrity, in genuineness and in truth. It even helps one learn from both their successes and their failures.

Seeking righteousness and God’s kingdom is extremely important in today’s world! It should be the Believer’s guide each day. Embrace integrity and stand firm in your beliefs as the challenges come. Making right choices that reflect our belief in God will bring honor to Him and to our faith! May each Believer’s righteousness and fairness be easily seen by all!

 

LEARNING DAILY

Zephaniah 2:3; Seek the Lord, all you meek of the earth, who have upheld His justice. Seek righteousness, seek humility. It may be that you will be hidden in the day of the Lord’s anger.

“Like most Old Testament prophets, Zephaniah’s prophecies cover both the immediate and distant future but focus on the immediate. He saw the day of the Lord being ‘at hand’ (1:7) – ready to fall on Judah and the nations. Although aspects of the ‘day of the Lord’ that Zephaniah prophesied would be fulfilled shortly afterwards, the vision in its entirety will be realized in the more distant future” (David Jeremiah Study Bible). It is written in Zephaniah 1:12, “At that time I will search Jerusalem with lamps, and I will punish the men who are complacent, those who say in their hearts, ‘The Lord will not do good, nor will He do ill.’” The days we live in is not a time to be complacent about our walk with the Lord! Other words for complacent are smug, satisfied, self-satisfied, unworried, and content. Relate these words to those who believe God does not punish evil and sin among His people.

Zephaniah is calling the people to seek the Lord, to humble themselves and seek righteousness and humility. God is calling His people to do this today. Matthew records Jesus words, “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.” (Matthew 5:6). Jesus also said, “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness…” (Matthew 6:33). Believers are not to be complacent in repenting of wrongdoing, words spoken in anger, and evil thoughts. Seek His righteousness and walk in humility. He warned the people of the coming day of God’s wrath; the warning for Believers today still stands as this prophetic word was for the distant future – a future that may be close to happening. The people’s response would determine their fate just as the response of Believer’s today will determine what happens to them.

Do you understand the importance of seeking the righteousness and humility of this verse in Zephaniah? The instruction is to strive for a righteous, honorable, and morally correct life. Will these life qualities be enough to provide protection or favor for the Believer when God’s judgment comes?  This verse suggests that they will. It gives me enough incentive to do all I can to live this way and do my best to live in obedience to the Word of God as I walk the narrow way into His kingdom.

It becomes a matter of prioritizing one’s spiritual journey more than personal and professional growth. Do not misunderstand these aspects of life are important – just second to choosing to seek God’s righteousness and humbling yourself to live your life according to His purposes. Again, your response will determine what happens to you.

 

LEARNING DAILY

Genesis 5:24, Enoch walked with God, and he was not, for God took him.

If I had one inscription on my tombstone I want, “He walked with God.” That was a crucial description of Enoch and I want to have people see that in me. What does walking with God mean? I believe it means to make one’s relationship with God apart of their everyday lifestyle and honoring Him with their choices in every decision one makes. Is that not what Pastor Jonathon Moore was saying in his weekend message? Like every Believer I am a work in progress, being far from perfect as I do my best to walk the narrow way. We have seen that God requires Believers to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with Him (Micah 6:8). That is not just for select Believers, that is the way God desires all Believers to walk.

Think of walking with God in this way. You and your best friend are walking somewhere, talking, laughing, and enjoying each other’s company. Your attention is focused on what he is saying excluding everything else. You allow no distraction; you just enjoy the companionship of your friend.

The Believer’s walk with God is like that. To walk with someone in a biblical sense, represents a harmonious, on-going relationship that has consistent communication, a mutual respect and journey to the same place. Colossians 2:6-7 states it this way, “Therefore, as you have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving.” Those who accept Jesus Christ as their savior in faith should live, think, and talk like Him, doing their best to please Him. Believers enter a heart relationship with Him, and He becomes their greatest desire. Meeting Him is not just a Sunday for one hour event; Believers live in fellowship with Him – to walk with Him.

Walking with a close friend often requires saying “no” to some things. Walking with the Lord requires saying “no” to a lot of things! It means letting go of every distraction that would interfere with that walk. Let me suggest some distractions to let go of – sinful habits, worldly entertainment, and unhealthy relationships. One can know these distractions are not God’s choices for them but still pretend everything is fine. Walking with God means you agree with Him about your life. Amos 3:3 asks, “Can two people walk together without agreeing on the direction?” (NLT).  Your walk with Him is not going to be perfect. It does mean you have decided to do your best to seek and follow God’s will every day.

You already know what I am going to write about developing a close relationship with God. A relationship is based on getting to know as much as possible about a person. It is based on a trust that is built. Spending time with Him in prayer and Bible study gives the Believer the opportunity to listen (read) the written word of God. Pray as you read His Word that He will open it to you to understand and apply to your life. Like walking with that friend, do not allow distraction (and they will come). I wish the Bible gave more information about Enoch’s walk with God.

 

LEARNING DAILY

Jeremiah 17:7-8, "Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose trust is the Lord. He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit."

Pastor Jonathon Moore began his message with, “There has to be more to life than just a daily routine.”  He was referring to connecting daily with God. “You can live out life in the purpose God has for you!” (JM), Audrey wrote in her message notes, “A thriving life begins with making consistent decisions based upon Biblical principles. On what the Word of God says.” “Where you are today is based on the decisions made yesterday. What you sow, you are going to reap.” (JM).

Pastor said psychologists say a person makes 35,000 decisions per day. “If you want a different harvest, sow different decisions that will shape the outcome you want. Our decisions might not be bad, but Go’s will for you will lead to a better decision” (Audrey’s notes). You can make decisions that make your life better, probably not problem free – but better.

The verse from Jeremiah tells us to trust in the Lord. How do we do that? We plant our life in the Word of God. How many times have I written that? I really liked what Pastor Moore said about this. “Do not have a “hokey/pokey” faith. That is where one puts their whole heart in the Word in January, then takes his whole heart out in February, and so forth.”

This week Pastor began talking about six decisions – the first is what he called “The Priority Decision.” He said, “Be careful not to let the most important thing become the second most important thing.” Pastor used a quote by Thomas Merton for emphasis, “People may spend their whole life climbing a ladder of success only to find, once they reach the top, that the ladder is leaning against the wrong wall.” I will ask the question he asked. Have you checked the wall your ladder is leaning against? Your answer will help you think about whether you are making decisions according to God’s Word, God’s will, and God’s way. It is important to be making the decisions that are taking you closer to God, building your faith, and leading you into a deeper relationship with Him. Jesus said, “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:21).

Pastor gave three ways to help make God our priority. One, “Intentionally prioritize God daily.”  Start your day with Him by being in prayer and reading/studying/meditating on His Word. Doing so will help you to seek God’s guidance in your decision-making.

Second, “Overcome your priority obstacles.” Busyness, being too tired, being overworked are some obstacles to overcome. Stop looking back instead of looking up and stop be afraid of missing out on something.

Third, “Delight in the Lord.” Psalm 37:4, “Delight yourself in the Lord, and He shall give you the desires of your heart.” “The more you get to know the Lord, the more you will love Him, and the closer He brings you to His desires and goals” (JM). The way to love God more and walk closer to Him on the narrow way is to know Him more.

“Our decisions to thrive need to align with three criteria: God’s Word, God’s will, and God’s way” (Small group discussion guide).

 

LEARNING DAILY

John 14:16-17, And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him. You know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you.

For the past two weekends Pastor Ed Newton has been sharing about the “empowerment of oil – the Holy Spirit” in the life of the Believer. He has shared a lot of great knowledge about the work of the Holy Spirit in the Old Testament. He shared that the Holy Spirit came to “rest” on people so they could accomplish what that person was to do at a specific time. He said, “When the spirit of God comes on a person, He will provide what that person needs.” For example, Samson was given supernatural strength. Gideon was shielded with strength (Judges 6:34) and Zechariah was given prophetic authority (2 Chronicles 24:20). This was taken from the sermon notes. “Different people were empowered by the Holy Spirit to do what God wanted done. The Holy Spirit did not live within them.

Ezekiel 37:27 is prophetic to what would happen when Jesus would go back to heaven. “I will put My Spirit within you and cause you to walk in My statutes, and you will keep My judgments, and do them.” When Jesus went back to heaven, He sent the Holy Spirit to live within the one who would believe in Him; the Holy Spirit was given to the Believer the moment he/she was saved to not only empower the Believer “but to transform him/her into becoming like Jesus” (EN). Let me share what Pastor Newton said about the purpose of the Holy Spirit taking up “residence” within each believer.

“And when He comes, He will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment” (John 16:8). The Holy Spirit will not only convict the Believer of sin; He will accuse and expose the unbelieving world to their sin. How? Believers are to point out the truth of sin and righteousness through their testimony – their words and lifestyle. Seeing and hearing the Believer’s testimony should convict unbelievers.

“But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things and bring them to your remembrance all I have said to you” (John 14:26). Do not be deceived. This is not about receiving new revelations, or even personal revelations; it is about reinforcing and explaining what Christ has already taught. This is not about adding to or changing the Word of God. Pastor asked if the Bible was better understood after receiving Jesus as your Savior than before. In my case that would be answered with a definite “YES” and He helps me remember what I need at a given time.

“For God gave us not a spirit of fear but of power and love and self-control” (2 Timothy 1:7). The Holy Spirit gives Believers the ability to stand strong against those who have the appearance of godliness but deny its power. He gives each Believer to love others and show self-control in a world that does neither.

“Likewise, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words.” (Romans 8:26). The Holy Spirit helps Believers in their weakness by strengthening them when facing temptations and trials; He gives strength to resist sin. He gives help when Believers do not know how to pray or what to pray for.

“But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” (Galatians 5:16). Believers are not to waste their time by living to satisfy their selfish desires; they are to serve Jesus Christ. Paul writes the only way to do that is to seek the Holy Spirit’s power and guidance each day. Believers walk a narrow way to become more like Jesus!

The Holy Spirit in the Believer’s life gives everything needed to do what God has called him/her to do!

 

LEARNING DAILY

Micah 6:8, He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?

Writing yesterday’s page of the blog caused me to wonder how I can walk humbly before the Lord! I think one way is to walk the narrow way daily realizing that I am Your creation, saved and changed by You. Yet, I am not perfect; I have weaknesses and shortcomings that You are still dealing with. I need Your grace and mercy every day because I cannot control everything that comes my way.

You have shown me many times that You are God and I am not. Help me to accept my need for Your guidance, forgiveness, and to submit to Your will today and not my own. I know that means I need to be willing to hear and obey your voice. I also know that You speak in different ways – through reading and studying Your written Word, through spending time with You in prayer, through fellowship with trusted Believers, and even through circumstances. This world is growing more evil; I need You to help me navigate challenges and uncertainties this life brings. I need Your wisdom and Your strength, not just today but every day!

May the days of fasting and prayer I am doing with Community Bible Church be only the beginning of becoming more dependent on You, “surrendering the good for the better” (Pastor Ed Newton). May it be the beginning of surrendering my desires for what You desire. I do not want it to be just a “21 days of surrender” and then back to life as what was normal. I want to submit to You, trusting in Your wisdom and sovereignty.

I believe I have been taught lately that walking humbly with God is about letting go of my pride, selfish desires and trusting this time in my life completely to God. Life changes are a way to develop a deeper relationship with the Lord and to experience His peace and blessings. It seems I am being pushed to put the needs of others before my own; life lessons that have not come easily. There are opportunities to show love and compassion to those around us; they can become clearer as the desire to serve the Lord becomes greater.

Micah 6:8 is not just advice to the people of the prophet’s time; it is certainly relevant to the days we live in. Walking humbly with God is about letting my ego go, showing kindness to those around me, and doing what is right in God’s eyes. It is about seeking God daily, doing my best to hear and obey Him. It is about putting the needs of others before my own.

 I need God to do a work in me!

 

LEARNING DAILY

Micah 6:6-8, "With what shall I come before the Lord, and bow myself before God on high? Shall I come before him with burnt offerings, with calves a year old?  Will the Lord be pleased with thousands of rams, with ten thousands of rivers of oil? Shall I give my firstborn for my transgression, the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul?" He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?

Micah had gotten the attention of the people in the previous verses. The people listened closely to his words and now they ask what they are to do to make right their relationship with God. They ask what it is they need to bring before the Lord; they want to know what God wants from those who follow Him.

Have you considered what really pleases the Lord in your own walk with Him? Look at what Micah told the people. God values His followers to be just, to be kind, and to walk humbly with Him. This is not a walk with Him that is superficial religious practices or just going through the motions of being a Christian. He does not want the burnt offerings of year-old calves. He does not want the offerings of many rams or a great amount of oil that the rich could bring to Him. Nor does He want the sacrifice of one’s firstborn son.

God wants Believers to stand up for justice which means knowing the difference between right and wrong and choosing to do what is right. It means to protect the innocent and treating people equally. Being kind is extending love and mercy to others by showing them love and compassion; it is extending a helping hand to those in need. It is showing that Believers are not above others but are willing to help and encourage those around them.  Walking humbly should describe the Believer’s heart’s attitude toward God. It is a recognition that they can bring nothing to God; instead, the Believer depends on God every day. These are core values of the Believer’s faith and truly pleases God when the Believer lives them out with a genuine heart.

Why is this so important? Each Believer must become more concerned about an internal transformation than outward religious practices and appearances. It is important to examine our motives and actions to make sure our worship is genuine and aligned with the heart of God. For example, are religious practices being done with unforgiveness remaining in your heart? What are your real motives for the religious things you are doing? God looks beyond the outward appearance to look at the condition of the Believer’s heart.

Micah 6:6 is a challenge to me to prioritize humility, mercy, kindness, justice, and forgiveness in my daily life. It is a challenge to go beyond concentrating on outward performance and rituals to work on a genuine relationship with God and what He desires.

 

LEARNING DAILY

Micah 6:1-2, Listen to what the Lord is saying: 'Stand up and state your case against Me. Let the mountains and hills be called to witness your complaints. And now, O mountains, listen to the Lord’s complaint! He has a case against His people. He will bring charges against Israel. (NLT)

Some Bible scholars portray this as a courtroom where the prophet Micah represents God and the people of Israel are being called to stand before the Lord to give an account for their disobedience and unfaithfulness. Read the verses again and hear the emotion with the words God is speaking. “Stand up and state your case against Me.” “Did the Israelites suggest He had done something to make them impatient and disobedient?” (David Jeremiah Study Bible). Do you feel the tension in this “courtroom” where the people are being challenged to defend themselves?

This confrontation makes me wonder how the people of this country would try to defend or explain their disobedience and unfaithfulness before God. I believe we all know that the people of this country are not living in harmony with the Word of God. This verse should cause every Believer to evaluate their own walk of faith to be sure it is in line with what God demands. We fool only ourselves when we think God does not see the life we live, does not hear the words we speak, and does not know a life committed to living for themselves and not Him. Just like God asked Israel, He asks each of us what right we have to live any way we want to.  

The prophet Micah called the people to reflect on their lifestyle, to repent and return to living for God. There is judgment coming for those who do not. At the same time, Micah emphasizes desire for them to live in His mercy and be humble. This verse shows the need for Believers to take the time to listen to God as they read His Word and pray; this is a daily need. Doing so helps Believers to be led by Him and to also be corrected by Him when necessary. As a parent, you do not continually talk down or condemn your child. Instead, you guide and help your child into correct and positive behavior.

God’s Word gives direction to walk the narrow way into God’s eternal kingdom. Every Believer needs this guidance to live justly and righteously in this world with constant challenges. Not one of us is strong enough or knows so much that he/she can live daily without God’s Word. Take the time to consider your need to begin the day in God’s Word and prayer. Then align your actions with the lifestyle that He desires you to walk in.

 

LEARNING DAILY

2 Kings 3:16, And he said, “Thus says the Lord: ‘Make this valley full of ditches.’” (NKJV).

The kings of Israel, Judah, and the king of Edom are going to battle against the king of Moab. They march a roundabout way that takes seven days to get where the battle is going to occur. However, they face a problem – there was no water for the armies and their animals. Pastor Jonathon Moore, lead pastor at NorthRock Church explained they needed a miracle! The kings went to the prophet Elisha to “inquire of the Lord for them” (verse 12).

Elisha called for a musician; verse 15 tells us, “When the musician played, the hand of the Lord came upon him.” Pastor reminded the listeners that services begin with worship in music to set the atmosphere for the worship in the Word. Music is to prepare the hearts of the people to hear the spoken Word of God. It is to distract them from all the outside noise and disturbances.

Pastor Moore was clear – God still works miracles today. Read this passage and you will see that God told the kings what needed to be done to receive the miracle they needed. “God never runs out of what is needed in the lives of people today! He has more than enough for your need. He never loses control over any situation” (JM). His message was about what God told Elisha to tell the kings to do to receive the miracle they needed.

“Dig a ditch!” The armies were to get their shovels out and dig trenches throughout the land where they were. They had to “make room for their miracle. They had to prepare for the thing(s) God was going to do. They (we) might not understand the purpose or the why; God wanted them (us) to trust Him!” (JM). Isaiah 55:8-9, “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways, declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts.” Walking with Him is about trust!

“God visits prepared places.” Joshua 3:5, “Then Joshua told the people, 'Purify yourselves, for tomorrow the Lord will do great wonders among you.'” Leading Israel into the Promised Land began with an inward cleansing for God to act; purifying themselves was an act of aligning themselves the will of God. When Elisha called for the musician, he was making room for God to act, to provide the answer the kings were seeking. Believers need to do that same thing; they need to prepare for God to do what He wants to do. Pastor Moore said this begins with “seeking God daily.” He said, “If we only give God one hour on a weekend, He is a hobby. Begin your day with prayer and reading His Word before anything else. Be with the Lord first and doing things for Him will come naturally. The purpose of prayer is to connect with God, doing what He wants.”

When Bible reading and study is added to prayer, one begins to draw closer to the Lord, learning to trust Him to provide what they need and to also deny their flesh. “Prayer and God’s word is a daily decision; something you have to want in your life” (JM).

I might add this is not a way to get what you want. It is drawing near to God to walk with Him in faith and trust, believing He cares for you and always does what is best.

The armies dug the ditches. They did not see the wind, nor the rain. But God filled the ditches with the water needed. He also delivered the Moabites into their hands.  

 

LEARNING DAILY

Zechariah 7:5-6, Say to all the people of the land and to the priests, ‘When you fasted and mourned in the fifth and seventh months these seventy years, was it actually for Me that you fasted? And when you eat and drink, do you not eat for yourselves and drink for yourselves?

As churches seem to be beginning the new year with prayer and fasting, I remember the words God told the people through the prophet Zachariah. The people had asked the prophet if they should continue to fast and weep as they had done for the so many years in the past. They had done this from a tradition they had done for the past seventy years, since the destruction of the temple in Jerusalem. The question was should they continue this tradition now that the temple had been rebuilt.  

God’s response through Zachariah is something Believers need to consider as they begin to fast and pray. What is one’s purpose in fasting? In Matthew 6:16, Jesus warns against the use of fasting to impress others. “Fasting is never to be an outward display but an inward discipline” (David Jeremiah Study Bible). Believers are not necessarily commanded to fast and pray; but Jesus did say Matthew 6:16, “When you fast”, not “if” you fast. God’s Word does however let us know fasting with prayer is good, profitable, and beneficial. Know that when the Believer does fast that it is a way to take their eyes off the world to focus completely on God; it is a way to show God that you are serious about your relationship with Him.

Read God’s response to the people through Zachariah. It shows that believers need to be careful about fasting because of tradition, because the leaders of their church tell them to fast, or for any other reason besides spending time with God to draw closer to Him. These people were fasting more out of formalism and tradition. God told them their fasting was empty of a real hunger and thirst (Matthew 5:6) for God’s righteousness. Their fasting and prayer were to be about God’s grace and to live a holy and just life before Him and others.

Giving up certain food items is not about weight loss. Fasting is not about trying to get God to do something we want to happen. Fasting is not about appearing more spiritual than others. It is about drawing closer to God. Yes, being set free from and addiction may result. Yes, being set free from wrong or immoral activity might occur. But that is the result of a closer relationship to the One who sets you free.

True obedience and worship are not rewarded through outward and tradition observances; they are rewarded through a sincere and true devotion to God. God’s Word is clear that He desires genuine worship from the Believer’s heart than empty rituals done without true faith.