Bible in a Year Blog

Deuteronomy 34:1-Joshua 2:24 + Luke 13:22-14:6 + Psalm 79:1-13 + Proverbs 12:26
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Old Testament – Today we come to the end of Moses’ life in our readings!   And – we come to the end of Moses’ writings of the first five books of the Old Testament – the Pentateuch:  Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy.  I will miss reading Moses’ writings – but – we only have to wait until January 1 next year when we will all embark on the Chronological or One Year Bible adventure and read Moses’ writings once again, right??  🙂  An image for Deuteronomy chapter 34 verses 5 through 7 is below: “So Moses, the servant of the LORD, died there in the land of Moab, just as the LORD had said. He was buried in a valley near Beth-peor in Moab, but to this day no one knows the exact place. Moses was 120 years old when he died, yet his eyesight was clear, and he was as strong as ever.”

Today we begin the book of Joshua!

~Joshua~
Author: Probably Joshua
Date: Either fourteenth century or twelfth century B.C.
Content: After the death of Moses, the leadership of the nation passed into the hands of Joshua and he was their commander-in-chief throughout the entire time of conquest when Israel was taking over the land. While still in the plains of Moab, Joshua mobilized his forces and prepared them for battle. There were three campaigns fought, one in the north, one in the central region, and one in the south, and all described, though not fully. After the initial victories, the land was divided among the various tribes of Israel. Joshua then exhorted the people and died in peace.
Theme: The book of Joshua shows that God is true to his promise. He had promised his people a land and they were now entering in to possess it. However, it was not automatic; God required of them that they actively engage in warfare in order to gain what he had given them. God’s judgment upon the sin of the Canaanites in the form of Israel’s armies is also a prominent feature. (Above commentary is from “The One Year Bible Companion” pp. 3-4)More commentary on Joshua is at this link.

Bible Project:  Here is a great video overview of the book of Joshua!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JqOqJlFF_eU

Today in Joshua chapter 1 verse 9 we read one of my favorite verses in the Bible – “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”  Incredible verse!  God spoke these words to Joshua just before he was about to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land.  And I do believe these words can apply to us today in our lives as well.  Do you believe it is possible that God has commanded you to be strong and courageous?  In what areas of your life might you need to really hear this command from God?  Do you believe that God will be with you wherever you go?

In verse 8 – just one verse prior to the verse above – we read –  “Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.”   How does this verse speak to you today?  Is it possible that you should not let the Bible depart from your mouth?  Do you meditate on the Bible day and night, so that you are careful to do what is written in it?  Do you believe meditating and following the truth of God as described in the Bible will allow you to be prosperous and successful?

Today in Joshua chapter 2 we read about Rahab protecting the two Israelite spies.  Verses 4 through 6 tell us: “Rahab, who had hidden the two men, replied, “The men were here earlier, but I didn’t know where they were from. They left the city at dusk, as the city gates were about to close, and I don’t know where they went. If you hurry, you can probably catch up with them.” (But she had taken them up to the roof and hidden them beneath piles of flax.)”

New Testament – Bible.org’s wonderful commentary on Luke chapter 13’s readings today titled “Striving to Enter the Narrow Door” is at this link.

Psalms – Psalm 79 verse 13 stood out to me today – “Then we your people, the sheep of your pasture, will thank you forever and ever, praising your greatness from generation to generation.”  I like that imagery of being sheep in God’s pasture.  And Jesus, of course, is our Good Shepherd.  Are you content with the idea of being a sheep in God’s pasture?

Proverbs – Proverbs chapter 12 verse 26 today teaches us: “The godly give good advice to their friends; the wicked lead them astray.” This is a great opportunity for us to reflect upon what type of advice or counsel we give to our friends.  Is it wise?  Or are we perhaps subtly leading our friends astray in any way?

Worship Video:  Psalm 79:13’s discussion of praising God from generation to generation reminded me of the importance of loving our children well and modeling for them life in Christ.  This reminded me of the great song by Steven Curtis Chapman about his daughter called “Cinderella:”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nrWMBC6yoME

Are you dancing with God? Click here to dance!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on a verse of Scripture today: “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9 NIV

Prayer Point: Pray for strength. Pray for courage. Pray that you will not be terrified, nor discouraged. Pray that you know that the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go, now and forevermore.

Comments from You & Questions of the Day:  How has your journey through the first 5 books of the Bible, the Pentateuch or the Books of Law, been for you this year?  Have you ever read all 5 of these books in a row before?  Are there any new insights you have learned from Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers and Deuteronomy this year?  Also, what verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings?  Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 – Download a schedule of our Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

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BLOG READERS HISTORICAL COMMUNITY COMMENTS:
(our Group Bible Study is below! : )

======= Ramona:

Deuteronomy 34:1-Joshua 2:24
Three times, count them three times (Joshua 1: 6,7,9) God gives the command to Joshua to “Be Strong and Courageous.” God doesn’t ask him how he feels, “Joshua do you feel strong and courageous?” God tells him to “Be …” We deal so much with our emotions and feelings. We operate by our five senses and then whatever our emotions and senses are telling us, that is what we tell ourselves must be truth. But here God is commanding a response based on His Word, not on feelings. In the same way we are commanded, as Christians, to love one another. It is a command not a feeling.
I believe that these responses God had commanded us, has commanded Joshua to “Be” are all acts of the will and not responses of the flesh and emotions, and my beliefs are not based on my feelings, because I certainly don’t feel strong, nor courageous nor do I feel love for all my fellow man, but I am commanded to do and to be. So these three things I’ve mentioned, plus others, must be verbs, actions words. I just not sure how to activate the action or is it as simple as being and doing despite what it feels like?
We know we have brains, at least I hope we know that, but when was the last time we felt them? Truth is not dependent on our feelings. Just because we feel or don’t feel a certain way or evoke a specific response as dictated by society doesn’t mean we are not dealing in “truth” or that we are insensitive to the needs, fears or experiences of others.
It is also interesting to note that after Joshua charges the two and one-half tribes of Reuben, Gad and Manasseh they respond back to him with, “[Joshua] …be strong and courageous.”
Joshua’s foundation in carrying out the command is rooted in him not letting the Book of the Law depart from him, meditating on the Law and studying it as well. Since God is not a respecter of persons and is the same yesterday, today and forever, then my fears, my weaknesses are wiped away by doing the same thing, meditating, studying and not letting the “Law” of God, the commands of Jesus depart from me.
It is also fascinating to note that the effects of hanging on to the Book of the Law, which gave Joshua strength and courage translated out to the citizens of Jericho as fear. Joshua 2: 24″The LORD will certainly give us the whole land,” they said, “for all the people in the land are terrified of us.”
Luke 13:22-14:6
22 Jesus went through the towns and villages, teaching as he went, always pressing on toward Jerusalem.”
Jesus was not sidetracked by the needs of others, or the distractions of the towns he visited or passed through. His miracles, His Words were directed to a single purpose, the cross, and that could only take place in Jerusalem. When one knows his or her purpose they are not held in slavery to the agenda’s of others. His purpose was about doing His Father’s business and that business was acquiring our redemption.
Jesus’ discourse about the narrow gate lets me know that sitting up in church doesn’t get me into the Kingdom, doing “church” stuff also doesn’t get me in, it is doing the Will of God and finding the purpose God has created me for and “working it.” I know this because of the following statements in chapter thirteen, “Then you will stand outside knocking and pleading, `Lord, open the door for us!’ But he will reply, `I do not know you.’ 26You will say, `But we ate and drank with you, and you taught in our streets.’ 27 And he will reply, `I tell you, I don’t know you. Go away, all you who do evil.’”
When you following your God given assignment death, physical death, will also be given its proper perspective in the life of the believer. Jesus was not rankled by the threats of Harod because He know that life is more that the physical, and because His Father, my Father, your Father, our Father is the God of the resurrection of all dead things.
Psalm 79:1-13
9 Help us, O God of our salvation!
Help us for the honor of your name. Oh, save us and forgive our sins
for the sake of your name.
This verse reminds me that our righteousness, our deliverance and our salvation are not based on anything I’ve done but it is based on His Name’s sake, Jesus. I have no right to demand the benefits of Jesus’ work on Calvary, but it is only His love and mercy that has removed my sins from me and caused Him to bestow forgiveness on me. Thank you Jesus.
Proverbs 12:26
This Proverb has not only caused me to reflect on the kind of advice I’m giving my friends, Mike, but it also warns me that I need to question whether the people who give me advice are Godly. Yikes!
Grace and peace,
Ramona

======= Thomas:

Deuteronomy 34:6 really amazed me today:
And He buried him in the valley in the land of Moab, opposite Bethpeor; but no man knows his burial place to this day.
This verse is so intimate. Moses has walked with God all these years and in the last moments they are alone and God speaks to him. Then God goes on to bury him Himself. Creator and creation… they are two best friends!
It feels like the last day of the holidays… I’m excited to be leaving The Law behind, but also a bit sad about it; I’ve enjoyed it, but only another 9 months and we’ll be starting again!
Thomas

======= Michelle:

The last few days I have been away and got out of my discipline of reading the one year bible. This morning I have caught up on my readings and feel so refreshed!
I wonder what it must have been like for Moses to see the Promised Land and not be able to enter it. How bittersweet. Surely he is relieved that they have arrived, and yet grieved that he, still of good strength, will not be allowed to enter. I imagine that Joshua’s integrity and faithfulness are a great comfort to him as we passes on the mantle of leadership to him. Also, he knows that the spirit of wisdom rests on Joshua because he laid hands on him and prayed for him. Leadership is never just leading in the moment, but also preparing the people for the future, including other leaders.
Michelle

======= Chip:

I also received great refreshment and encouragement with today’s reading in Joshua. It’s awesome to know that God will walk right beside us during our daily journey. Now that’s a promise!
Chip

======= Susan:

I fell behind on the OT part of the OYB readings because of my mom’s serious illness, hospitalizations, and now her being in a nursing home. Life has really changed. I’ve kept up the NT, but when I got the email saying that Deuteronomy was over, I decided this was the day to jump back into the OT since Joshua is starting! I’m not trying to catch up – I’m just jumping back in. It’s great to be back!
Susan

======= Jan:

I love the picture of the Bible giving the “Body” life…His Blood transfused from His Word…gives us all life eternal. It has always been about the “Blood” of Christ.
Jan

======= Anka:

Last sunday I got the nudge for the….time to share my testimony.Got saved in another country,another continent..been with my current church for barely a year.Many people admired my committment,only a few close friends knew my journey.Some times we just concentrate on how narrow the door to heaven is…some people turn their backs on Jesus cos they don’t want to be “religious”…a life filled with restrictions…Jesus himself said lets exchange burdens…mine is a lot lighter for you to carry…and no matter how heavy yours is,I can take it(para phrased).People hear of Jesus everyday..yet the think the door is too narrow.I thought I never could be good enough to make it to heaven so why bother…Now God has given me a life more beautiful than I ever could have imagined…I think the “narrow” bit is just letting go..trusting that the arms of Jesus are really wide and comfy…that you’ll always be safe there…no matter the storm..
God bless you all
Anka

======= Becky:

No, I’ve never read the whole Pentateuch before in my life! And not too long ago, I took it for granted that I never would. The thought of reading the entire OT –well, it seemed impossible. Thanks to Mike for giving the structure, motivation, insights, and artwork, and thanks for Godly fellowship along the way.
Becky

======= Pat:

Deut. 34:6 – In both the KJV and the NIV it says, “He (with a capital ‘H’ meaning God) buried Moses! Now, if the Israelites had buried Moses then they certainly would have known where they buried him. However, it goes on to say in 34:6 that to this day no one knows where his grave is. Many theologians believe that Moses ascended directly into Heaven, as there was no sign of a grave. This would also make sense because during the Transfiguration of Christ (Matthew 17:1-6, Mark 9:2-4, Luke 9:28-31) it was Elijah and Moses who appeared to Jesus to prepare Him for His death and ascension into Heaven. Elijah had ascended directly into Heaven (2 Kings 2:11) therefore it would be probable that Moses too had ascended directly into Heaven.
God Bless!
Pat

======= Kitty:

What an awesome command and promise that God gave Joshua (which is also applicable to us all today) in Joshua 1:9!
Kitty

======= Jenny:

this is my 2nd time through the Bible consecutively and I did learn many new things from the first 5 books, tho the last three books were challenging.
comment for verse 8: “…Then you will be prosperous and successful”…I do believe for us this is meant spiritually we will be prosperous and successful. many ppl are caught up in the Prosperity movement that God wants everyone to be rich and successful financially, materially, in a worldly way. Not so, our eternal soul and spiritual growth, and our work for the Lord is far more important then material things.
Wow, what a coincidence ;)…our guest speaker at church tonight, Rual Reis went over Luke 13:22-30 tonight.
Few will enter the narrow way. Wide is the road that leads to destruction. Heartbreaking…ppl are perishing everyday without Christ! A guy from the group Mustard Seed Faith gave his testimony tonight, he was on drugs, hung out with Timothy Leary, was rich, yet empty. He studied many religions. Once he went out to the dessert and snorted a bunch of stuff (his heart stopped and they couldnt resuscitate him). During that time, he had a sorta out of body experience. He said he was conscious in his mind and was aware he was in complete darkness. All it was, was total darkness, all alone, then he heard weeping, wailing, agonizing sounds. he realized then he was making some of those sounds. He was so scared he called on all the gods he heard of and nothing happened. Then lastly, reluctantly he decided to call on Jesus’ name, tho he didnt want to bcos he never wanted to be a Christian…Jesus if your real, save me.
He finally came to and saw a figure in front of the sun, it was so bright he had to look away, even with his whole body turned away, it was too bright to behold. He heard a very audible voice that said, “I am the alpha and omega, the beginning and the end.”
that was it, that changed his life. It was a pretty amazing testimony to hear him tell it. Rual Reis has one of the most unbelievable testimonies.
Sometimes we share with others, we pray for others and nothing seems to happen. I get so down on myself sometimes, like I failed God, if the person I was talking to doesnt come to Christ. But its not us, its God who does the work. we plant the seed yes and God wants to use us to minister to others and spread the gospel…but no one who God predestined will miss out on heaven. God has ways we cant even fathom! I’ve heard so many unbelievable stories!!
Oh yes, so this verse: “Depart from Me, all you workers of iniquity”.
JESUS NAMED THE PPL WHO WILL NOT SEE HEAVEN! WORKERS OF INIQUITY! PEOPLE LIVING IN SIN!!! We canNOT enter God’s presence with sin in our life, we must confess it, repent, get rid of sin, and not live in it. Our sin is at the cross when we do this. we still sin yes, but we arent to practice it. As we saw in the Pentateuch, God does not tolerate sin! Jesus is speaking in Luke here, He does not tolerate sin.
Luke 13:34-35, makes me so sad. Anyone heard that song, “Jerusalem, Jerusalem, why wont you believe….” I heard it during my trip to Israel and I just love it, it just breaks my heart too.
Prov goes both ways, we who are godly should discern who we are friends should be, what we listen to. We may have unbeliever friends and we should be careful when they give advice, for they are not of the spirit of God. We need Christian friends! We arent past getting led astray especially if we are surrounded by ungodly ppl. sometimes its unavoidable at the workplace and so forth, but we definitely need Godly ppl with wisdom in our lives. I’m pretty much the only believer at my work place and it can be very hard, the enemy works on me. I can feel the warfare and I have to be careful how much I expose myself to, as much as I can. In fact, I’m praying now that God may open another door for me bcos the environment at work is so bad. But if God wants me there still, so far He does, then I’ll stay, but the minute my purpose there is done, I’ll be moving on! If anyone reads this, could you please pray God will provide me somewhere else to go if it be His will. I know He is there with me, but I’m sure many understand, its tough. I have about 20 coworkers any given day and its all nonbelievers and me…its just a bit much. I’ve been praying for believers to work there (yes, I have been praying and talking to ppl who work there, so that they will be believers, bcos they are my friends and I love them and want them saved so bad!). Anyhow, I’m just rambling….again.
Great readings! God bless!
p.s., i love the pic of all the sheep butts, haha, their little tails, its soooo cute!!
Jenny

======= Laura:

Reading about Moses right now in The One Year Bible Blog, was great timing for me especially during the Easter Season and on Resurrection Sunday,as I watched the movie “The 10 Commandments” for probably the 20th time. I encourage everyone who hasn’t seen that movie to watch it. I loved seeing how Moses was portrayed and how much of the old testament was acted out. I am going to miss reading about Moses, but know that I will be blessed by reading about his successor Joshua. You have to read all the bible including the Pentateuch in it’s entirety to see the whole picture and to appreciate the rest of the old testament.
Laura

======= Mae:

Hi Everybody!
I miss you all so much! I do my readings every day and there’s so much to say about it and I just can’t … How frustrating, eh?
I’m slowly getting back on my feet. Besides the fire in our kitchen, my health isn’t doing what I want. I’m extremely tired, ex-treme-ly! All I want to do is sleep, there’s many many things in my head that I want to do, but my body is not cooperating. I have my 2nd bloodtest tomorrow, the first came back negative (so positive for me), but since the exhaustion is still there, there must be something wrong.
I really need some prayers … so if you pray … can you ask the Lord to heal me and break this attack on my life and body?
I’m going to try to get back to postings on Monday. See, the problem is: when I’m in front of a monitor, I get terrible headaches. That’s the main reason I can’t spend no longer than 10 minutes in front of the computer.
I miss all of you!!!
Love in Christ,
Mae

======= Art:

I find it incredibly encouraging that, by courageous faith, Rahab, along with her family was saved. She could so easily have made a different choice, a milder declaration, or said the words without taking action. She could have chosen to *only* melt in fear like her fellow citizens. Instead, though, she confessed the LORD with her mouth and acted accordingly:
“*I* know that the LORD has given this land to you…” (Joshua 2:8)
“…for the LORD your God *is* God in heaven above and on the earth below.” (Joshua 2:11)
If a pagan prostitute can change like that and, in God’s grace, become the great-great grandmother of King David, in the lineage of Jesus, then there is hope for all of us!
Art

======= Lisa:

I would never think that the angels with their wings look the way they appear in the first picture posted with Moses. Sort of eerie.
Lisa

======== Luch:

Deuteronomy 32:44-47 where Moses says to the people, “Take to heart all the words I have given you today. Pass them on as a command to your children so they will obey every word of this law. These instructions are not mere words (idle words)–they are your life! By obeying them you enjoy a long life in the land you are crossing the Jordan River to occupy.”
Could it be that Jesus was referencing this passage in Matthew 4:4 when He said, “Man does not live on bread alone but by every word that comes out of the mouth of God.”
Great teachings to meditate on this Good Friday when ‘the bread of life’ gave Himself up so freely to give us life now and into eternity.
Luch

======= Evelyn:

This is the first time I ever read through the pentateuch! It hasn’t been easy to stick through it but I’m glad I did. I definitely feel like this has brought me closer to God. It was interesting to learn about God in the pentateuch. I always had the impression (heard) that the OT God was angry and short-tempered but as I read the pentateuch for myself I was surprised to find a caring, patient God. There was some anger but it was in love. That’s the image I will now keep in my heart.
Evelyn

======= Beth:

I have read through the Bible before, but not this quickly and not this regularly. I am daily amazed at the new stuff I learn and see and can apply readily to my life! Thank you Mr. Bible Blog! And all praises to you, O God for you are so good to give us Your Living Word…
Beth

======= Colleen:

Psalm 79:13 Then we your people, the sheep of your pasture, will thank you forever and ever, praising your greatness from generation to generation.
What a wonderful concept; Psalm 23 says: The Lord is my Shepherd, My Jehovah Rohi, we are indeed the sheep of His pasture.
Psalm 100 also states it very clearly.
.. we are His people, the sheep of His pasture. Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. For the LORD is good and his love endures forever; His faithfulness continues through all generations
Colleen

======= Teriann:

I am always amazed by Rahab and her faith and wonder where it came from. She tells the spies that everyone knows about what happened in Egypt and the parting of the Red Sea, 40 years earlier. And everyone knows about the recent battles that Israel fought and won. She says that all are melting with fear but Rahab alone takes the next step toward God. Her great faith not only hid the spies but it encouraged their faith as well so that they brought back a good report to Joshua. Rahab the prostitute born and raised in a pagan culture has this wonderful faith to make a statement like, “for the Lord your God is God in heaven above and on the earth below.” The only answer to my question is the Holy Spirit! He knows the hearts of men and He knows who belongs to God and He is able to impart faith to even the most unlikely person. This speaks to me because I am the only believer in my family, me, the most unlikely candidate of them all, and yet here I am with faith that I know is God given.
Teriann

======= Vicky:

Here here! It is never about us and how we ‘feel’ – it is always about His purpose and His will. We come from a place of acceptance and love (through Christ) and should feel strength and encouragement, but nevertheless the command is to BE strong and courageous even if it doesn’t feel that way!
Vicky

======= Reuben:

Funny that both the OT and NT readings are a bit controversial today.
OT – are the promises of God about Israel having the land still applicable today?
NT – is the way to eternal life truly a narrow one that relatively few will enter?
Reuben

======= Billy:

Hey Mike, Yeah I’ve read the Bible before but never in a structured fashion as we are doing now with the bible blog. The Pentateuch was fascinating and I learned so much more with your words and the companion Bible. Can’t wait to read it again
Billy

======== Bob:

I particularily like this video of Cinderella:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QzY4Wi7VYw8
Bob

======== Jill:

I wanna be like Joshue. Such a strong leader appointed by God. We named our first born after this great leader. He’s someone for all of to model. To be strong courageous and teach our children the commandments. Psalms 78:1-4. God Thankyou for stories of the old testament that are relevant for today!
Also doing things don’t earn our salavation. That’s Gods free gift . Accept it but exercise your faith because faith and works go together. Faith is to believe, act, wait, expect!!!! Really know your God so one day we may step over into eternity and God will say “well done faithful servant” we are his sheep and the sheep
If his pasture. Follow Him!
Jill

====== Marie:

This is my 4th year following the readings to read the Bible in a year, each time I read things “new” to “me”….is wonderful! Thank you for this website!!
Marie

======= Dee:

I feel accomplished reading all first 5: Pentateuch..woohoo Deut: done today..will miss Moses! Now the leadership of Joshua..
Luke: I love Jesus and his ministry! He didn’t flinch around the Pharisees. They weren’t Fair U see. (Haha)
Psalms! We your people, the sheep of your pasture: I love that. I believe in the people and the church! Amen.
Proverbs: it is good to get good advise from a friend. Sometimes advice keeps u out of trouble
Dee

======= Ramona:

(This is a Long Post)
Deuteronomy 34:1012; Joshua 1-2:24
Random thoughts, or are they Rambling thoughts on today’s Old Testament Readings.
From Deuteronomy:
Moses: drawing out Joshua: Jehovah-saved
Does each of these two men’s names give a clue/hint to their purpose? Moses took them out of bondage by “drawing” them out of Egypt and Joshua took them into the Promise Land, saving them from the wilderness.
Reading how God showed Moses all of the Promise Land from the top of Mount Nebo reminded me of Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness. Both men were in the wilderness, but God showed Moses the Promise Land, and Satan showed Jesus, what already belonged to Him, that which He created, the world.
Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain, and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their grandeur. And he said to him, “I will give you all these things if you throw yourself to the ground and worship me.” (Matthew 4:8-9 NET.)
Joshua is being handed the reins of leadership at the age of 80, the same age Moses was when he first confronted Pharaoh.
From: Joshua:
A Promise handed down to Joshua—a Promise that is being passed down from one generation to the next. God’s Promises are always generational, He does not operate in an “Us For and No More” mentality in a moment in time.
Being Strong and Courageous is a choice; it is not an emotion or a feeling it is a “being.” Four times in the passage for today, God gives this command to Joshua. Yet this “being” cannot be accomplished in our own strength. After all the “armor” for battle is on, we are to take heed to the Apostle Paul’s’ admonishment:
Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. (Ephesians 6:10 KJV)
God repeats Himself over and over again for a reason—we are a stiff-necked, hearing but non-listening people just like Israel. Not only does God repeat Himself, we are given an example through Joshua to mediate to think on the “Book of the Law continually.”
Rahab:
Rabah had the same information that many in the city of Jericho had, especially the political and “religious” leadership. As a prostitute, she was more than likely the beneficiary of a great deal of “pillow talk” and from a historical prospective and the warnings in the Book of Proverbs we know many men have fallen because of there associations with “wanton” women. Yet, this woman came to a conclusion that saved her life, she recognized that Israel’s God was the true God.
And she said unto the men, I know that the LORD hath given you the land, and that your terror is fallen upon us, and that all the inhabitants of the land faint because of you. For we have heard how the LORD dried up the water of the Red sea for you, when ye came out of Egypt; and what ye did unto the two kings of the Amorites, that were on the other side Jordan, Sihon and Og, whom ye utterly destroyed. And as soon as we had heard these things, our hearts did melt, neither did there remain any more courage in any man because of you: for the LORD your God, he is God in heaven above, and in earth beneath. Now therefore, I pray you, swear unto me by the LORD, since I have showed you kindness, that ye will also show kindness unto my father’s house, and give me a true token: And that ye will save alive my father, and my mother, and my brethren, and my sisters, and all that they have, and deliver our lives from death. (Joshua 2:9-13 KJV)
Rahab heard about Israel’s God and it softened her heart to receive Him. Yet, that same information caused the political powers to not only shut up the gates to the city but shut up their hearts to the Truth of Israel’s’ God.
Rahab, as one who never experienced God for herself but only had heard about Him, corrals her entire family into the Kingdom of God. While Lot, Abraham’s Nephew couldn’t even excite his own family to get out of Sodom, they, along with Him had to be dragged out and away from destruction (Genesis 13). Lot was in a position to not only benefit from the Blessings bestowed upon his Uncle, Abraham, he clearly experienced the God of Abraham just be being a member of the household yet we see two different responses.
Conformation:
God gives us a Word, a Promise and He repeats it over and over again not only throughout a forty year travel in a desert, but for four-hundred plus years His Word of a Promise has been interwoven in the lives of His People because of one man, Abraham. And like Joshua when it is time to take hold of that Promise we seek confirmation from an outside source, our five senses. If we don’t feel it, taste it, see it, hear it and smell it, we don’t believe it. Either we don’t really think we have heard from God or the adversary, the devil, cries out in our hearing of our unworthiness.
My prayer for each and every person that proclaims the name of Christ that we step into all that Christ Has secured for us while He hung on that Cross. May the resurrection power that raised Him from the dead infuse us with boldness to not only obtain our Promise but maintain it once we secure it. In Jesus’ Might and Glorious Name, Amen and Amen.
Grace and peace to everyone,
Ramona

======= John:

Joshua 1:4
“Your territory will extend from the desert to Lebanon, and from the great river, the Euphrates—all the Hittite country—to the Great Sea [a] on the west.”
God gave Israel 300,000 sq miles. The most they ever claimed was 30,000 sq. miles. – J. Vernon Mcgee
Today Israel occupies roughly 10,000 square miles. What percentage do Christians today have of the “spiritual blessing of Christ” referred to in Eph.1:3. Not the health and wealth doctrine, but the kind of full spiritual blessings Andrew B. referred to in a past post regarding the Holy Spirit and realizing our full potential in Christ.
The instructions to Joshua perhaps indicate what we should be doing as modern Christians: Be strong, courageous, move forward, and have the Word on thy lips, meditate on it, and obey. (The last not because we have to, but because we should want to as believers with a regenerated heart.)
Joshua 2
Rahab
God again picks a hero with flaws, a person of low class distinction to carry out his plan. The “harlot” believed in the God of Israel and acted on her faith. She is listed in the “by faith “passages with Abel, Noah, Moses, Abraham, Isaac, Joseph, etc. in Heb. 11:31
“By faith the prostitute Rahab, because she welcomed the spies, was not killed with those who were disobedient.”
Rahab also one of five women mentioned in the geneology of Christ.
Matthew 1:5
“Salmon the father of Boaz, whose mother was Rahab,….”
How many times do people today say, ‘I believe in the gospel, but I need to clean up my life a little before I come to the Lord’? (I said this to a Christian once before I was saved.)
Rahab didn’t. Neither should “man”. Repent, turn to the Lord, Accept Christ, and then with a regenerated heart allow your life to be cleaned up.
======================================================
Joshua 2:10-11
We have heard how the LORD dried up the water of the Red Sea for you when you came out of Egypt, and what you did to Sihon and Og, the two kings of the Amorites east of the Jordan, whom you completely destroyed. When we heard of it, our hearts melted and everyone’s courage failed because of you, for the LORD your God is God in heaven above and on the earth below.”
In Genesis 15:16 God told Abraham ‘not yet’ – referring to the land of Canaan – for the sin of the Amorites has not yet reached its full measure. That was 420 years before the Red Sea crossing.
Another forty years passed after the “Crossing”.
The Canaanites had 460 years to turn back to God. In the last forty years they had heard of his power and authority. THEY NOT ONLY HEARD IT, but they believed it according to Rahab.
“…for the LORD your God is God in heaven above and on the earth below.”
For all those people (skeptics of the Bible, atheists, some Christians) that think God of Old Testament is cruel, barbaric and blood-thirsty: How long should God have given the Canaanites?
God had revealed himself. God did not destroy a people that had not heard about him, and consequently (at least some) believed in his existence. While Rahab believed and acted on her faith, the rest of the city went into lock-down and prepeared to resist. That division is still apparent today regarding belief in Jesus Christ.
We have been given 2,000 years to believe in Christ and accept salvation. How much longer will God wait? When judgment comes will the actions of God be any less just and righteous than it was to the Canaanites?
======================================================
I assume everyone gets the Scarlet thread reference regarding Rahab and her house?
John

Deuteronomy 33:1-29 + Luke 13:1-21 + Psalm 78:65-72 + Proverbs 12:25
~ Click here to read today’s Scripture on Bible Gateway ~
~ Listen to today’s Scripture with Tom Dooley’s terrific NLT 1996 readings at this link or The ESV Bible: OT + NT + Psalms + Proverbs ~

Old Testament – Allright, I don’t know about you, but I’m getting a little teary eyed reading about Moses’ final blessings of the tribes today!  It reminded me of Jacob’s blessings of his sons in Genesis Chapter 49 – though, it seems to me that Moses’ blessings were a bit more positive overall than Jacob’s, no?  Jacob’s were a bit more realistic though perhaps… as we’ll read later this year in the One Year Bible.  The other thing about reading Moses’ final blessings of the tribes today that makes me sad is the realization that we are in the 2nd to last chapter of the Pentateuch! (The first five books of the Bible – the books of the Law.)  Tomorrow we’ll read about the death of Moses in Deuteronomy chapter 34 and then it’s onto the Promised Land with Joshua!

An image is below for Moses’ blessing of the tribe of Joseph in verse 17: “Joseph has the strength and majesty of a young bull; his power is like the horns of a wild ox. He will gore distant nations, driving them to the ends of the earth. This is my blessing for the multitudes of Ephraim and the thousands of Manasseh.”” (I’m not sure why the image below says “unicorn” – it doesn’t look like a unicorn to me! 🙂

New Testament – I love Jesus’ teachings in Luke chapter 13 verses 18 & 19: “Then Jesus said, “What is the Kingdom of God like? How can I illustrate it? It is like a tiny mustard seed planted in a garden; it grows and becomes a tree, and the birds come and find shelter among its branches.”  I think if we can have faith in the seed that Jesus plants in our hearts – the Gospel – we will see an amazing plant grow that will ultimately bless others.  From the tiniest beginnings, with patience and faith, can come the largest of plants.  Will you let Jesus plant a mustard seed in your heart?  And will you be patient and allow the seed time & space to grow?  And will you water and care for the seed of the Gospel planted in your heart so that one day it will be a beautiful tree of life for yourself and others you come in contact with?

Bible.org’s commentary on Luke chapter 13’s readings today titled “A Problem of Perspective” is at this link.

Psalms – Psalm 78 verse 71 is awesome – “He took David from tending the ewes and lambs and made him the shepherd of Jacob’s descendants–God’s own people, Israel.”  This verse reminds me that we’ll be reading about David later this year in the One Year Bible!  It is interesting that the Psalmist refers to David as a shepherd and not king of Israel in this verse.  The shepherd analogy seems like it might be foreshadowing Jesus, the Good Shepherd.  Here’s an image below of a young David as a shepherd – perhaps singing some Psalms??  🙂

Proverbs – Today in Proverbs chapter 12 verse 25 we read – “An anxious heart weighs a man down, but a kind word cheers him up.” How is the state of your heart today? Is it anxious? Might I cheer you up with a kind word? 🙂 You are amazing for reading the One Year Bible this year! Not many people take on this significant holy endeavor to learn more about God’s very Word and to allow themselves to be transformed by it.

Worship Video:  Luke 13:18-19 reminded me of the Sanctus Real song “Whatever You’re Doing:”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iN9J8eqKovY

Is God doing something inside of you? Click here for inner transformation!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on a verse of Scripture today: “Then Jesus asked, “What is the kingdom of God like? What shall I compare it to? It is like a mustard seed, which a man took and planted in his garden. It grew and became a tree, and the birds of the air perched in its branches.” Luke 13:18-19 NIV

Prayer Point: Pray that your faith is like a mustard seed. Small perhaps at first, but ever growing and expanding as your heart grows and expands for love of Jesus, is filled with the Spirit, and is full in the Kingdom of God.

Comments from You & Questions of the Day:  Based on our Proverb, are there others in your life that you know are being weighed down with an anxious heart?  Will you reach out to them today and tomorrow and the next day with a kind word to cheer them up?  Never underestimate the power of a kind word toward others. It is life-giving. Please never fail to pass along life & joy to others through kind words as you journey through this life. And please accept kind words when they are given to you.  Also, what verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings?  Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 – Download a schedule of our Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 – I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!

BLOG READERS HISTORICAL COMMUNITY COMMENTS:
(our Group Bible Study is below! : )

======= Ramona:

Deuteronomy 33:1-29
As I read this passage on the blessings bestowed on the tribe of Levi,
9 The Levites obeyed your word
and guarded your covenant. They were more loyal to you
than to their parents, relatives, and children.
I immediately thought of the Words of Jesus we read recently, like yesterday,
Luke 12:
49″I have come to bring fire to the earth, and I wish that my task were already completed! 50There is a terrible baptism ahead of me, and I am under a heavy burden until it is accomplished. 51 Do you think I have come to bring peace to the earth? No, I have come to bring strife and division! 52 From now on families will be split apart, three in favor of me, and two against–or the other way around. 53 There will be a division between father and son, mother and daughter, mother-in-law and daughter-in-law.”
When you chose to follow God you will be at odds with your friends and family members even those who go to “church.” But in Moses’ blessing to the tribe of Levi it is clear there is a reward for choosing God and obeying His covenant, His Word.
Deut. 33:12 …”The people of Benjamin are loved by the LORD
and live in safety beside him. He surrounds them continuously
and preserves them from every harm.”
The tribe of Benjamin would give Israel her first king, Saul, and although, rejected by God because of disobedience, they would remain faithful to the tribe of Judah once Israel is torn in two after the death of Solomon.
Deut. 33:7 …O LORD, hear the cry of Judah
and bring them again to their people. Give them strength to defend their cause;
help them against their enemies!”
Judah would give birth to Israel’s second and greatest earthly king, David and be the line Jesus the Messiah, would enter the world. Genesis 49: 10 The scepter will not depart from Judah, nor the ruler’s staff from his descendants, until the coming of the one to whom it belongs, [Or until tribute is brought to him and the peoples obey; traditionally rendered until Shiloh comes.] the one whom all nations will obey
Luke 13:1-21
Mike to “repent” means to change direction, to turn 180 degrees in lifestyle, thinking and beliefs. Your other question, “Have you repented?” Based on lifestyle choices, yes; based on my way of thinking, yes; based on my beliefs, as well as values, yes! Today, while doing my laundry in the Laundromat a woman I just know by face said something to me that has not yet sank in she said, I’ve been seeing you for years and I know that God has blessed you because your face, hair and entire body reflect that you have changed and given yourself over to God.” I was speechless.
My desire for everyone on this site to be so infused with the Love of Christ, to be so infused with God’s Word that everyone around you will know that you have been with Jesus. They may all not like it but the evidence will demand that Jesus’ name will be evoked when they see you.
I read Bob Deffinbaugh’s linked article, A Problem of Perspective, and found it wonderful.
Today’s passage has one of my favorite Parables, the Unproductive Fig Tree (Luke 13:6-9). In fact I wrote a Bible Study on this parable that caused a big commotion. It seems that a lot of the guys (I lead a study where the majority of members of the group were homeless, drug/alcohol addicted men) became convicted, no ashamed, of their behavior and began calling the owner (God) of the vineyard, mean, cruel and impatient. They clearly identified themselves with the non-producing fig tree that was about to be cut down. Some of these guys had been attending this study for years and years and never were challenged to look at their lives and make changes. When I began teaching, and I was only there for four years, I began to hold them accountable for their behavior and stop accepting their justifications for their behavior as excuses. I was even accused of bringing “Holy” things into the study, which momentarily stunned me; however, after I recovered I said, “Well, this is a church.
When you fertilize the ground, forgive my lack of expertise as a city dweller, it seems to me that you do violent things to the ground: soil is turned over by sticking sharp implements into the soil to loosen it. You disturb all the little critters living in the soil and disrupt their tiny homes. I’m not sure about this but the roots might be disturbed as you give them a wake up call by all the movement of the soil. The status quo of the soil is shaken up and that is what I saw with these guys as they clearly became agitated with the study. This is the same agitation that Jesus caused as we went about doing good and healing all those oppressed by the devil (Acts 10:38) I made no apologies for the study and I told all those with hurt feelings that I was not sorry that they felt uncomfortable and I hoped they would rethink their life. Although my words were firm and unrelenting, inside doubts ran through my mind as I thought, “Was this the right thing?”
A year to eighteen months latter, I was getting on a Subway train on a line I don’t normally ride. A man I didn’t recognize called my name. As I puzzled over who this could be, he said, “I’m Mario from All Angels.” I was stunned. Here was the man that was the most agitated, the one who said, “How dare you teach a lesson on Holy Things!” standing before me in his right mind. I had not seen him ever since that ‘lively” night in the church and my how he had changed. He was clean-shaven, well dressed and had a glow about him. He thanked me over and over again. Even-though he had walked out of that study he had been confronted by the parable and had made a decision to change his life. He was clean and sober and he stated proudly that he had reconnected with a daughter who was now fourteen after ten years with no contact. Here was a fig tree that had begun producing fruit.
Any doubts I had that night after teaching this parable all disappeared from the recesses of my mind. God is good and His mercy endures forever.
That is why I will always have a special place in my heart for this Parable of the Unproductive Fig Tree. I know that everyone will not produce because even in this story nothing is said of the state of the tree. But even when a tree is cut down, from the stump a productive plant can still rise.
I also have another perspective of the saying, “Let Go and Let God.”
Psalm 78:65-72
This Psalm is talking about a leadership change in Israel, Joseph to Judeah. And continues to mirror the Old Testament reading, Hmmm!
Proverbs 12:25
“25Worry weighs a person down; an encouraging word cheers a person up.”
Worrying will take you out (kill you). It doesn’t add anything to the situation but negativity. Worrying is a substitution for prayer and a sorry one at that. And even when we pray and give things over to God, when we get up off of our knees, back, face or whatever position is used, we go back to the alter where we just laid down our problem and take it back up again. STOP THAT! What we fail to take into account is God’s solution, which is better than ours may not be what we thought of. One of the very best things that has ever happened to me, I got laid off of a job. God began dealing with me and I wound up in college. I was a high school drop-out without even a GED. But God worked out favor as I took a chance from a Word I heard in my spirit to take a placement exam on the way back from the unemployment office. The rest is history. The answer I had figured out in my own head for the prayer I prayed was not the one I received.
By the way I graduated from the Jr. College as Valedictorian (that was a big surprise to me) was awarded my GED by the State of NY under a program called 24 credits, which I latter found out that 85% of the people who went that route failed; then when on to a four year college. If I had had those numbers before my journey, I would have been to afraid to try. Sort of like the 10 spies who brought back the bad report and the two who believed. I would have been with the 10 spies.
Grace and peace,
Ramona

======= Chris:

Don’t ever stop posting Ramona. You are such an encouragement!
Chris

======= Bob:

Ramona has brought up a crucial point in our Christian walk. Like Chris, I encourage her and all of us to bring testimony to our fellow readers. This is one of three things Satan tries very hard to destroy when it comes to spiritual warfare. Ramona has done a very courageous thing by telling us how Jesus gave her the insight on how to fight man’s futility with one of Jesus’ parables. I think it is so phenomenal how she used it with just the right bent to change someone’s direction in life and lead them to Christ. Testimony can’t be any stronger than when we use what the Bible says to restore people to God. I can only imagine the difficulties she has had in telling this story. (ie. Guilt, pride, disillusionment, anger, etc.) By the way the other two things Satan hates are the unity of the Christian family and the ministry of Christian churches, especially pastors and leaders. I guess we know a little more about what to pray for.
Bob

======= Kelly:

Loved reading your amazing testimony, Ramona. Mike, what makes me sad every time I read it is the fact that Moses was not allowed to enter the promised land. Only to see it from a mountain. It just brings tears to my eyes when remembering all those years and how badly he was treated by the people. But he doesn’t complain to God about not being allowed to enter, but continues to teach the people what God says and gives instruction to Joshua, who will now lead the new generation into the land. I love the word of God, and each time I read it, I receive new knowledge and understanding that I missed before, or perhaps, wasn’t ready to receive. Thanks for all the sharing and God Bless You Mike for all your work in keeping this blog going for us. Love In Christ! HUGS!!
Kelly

======= Alan:

What a testimony Ramona. This has helped me along with Mike’s blog. This morning I went for the regular reading and blog as I usually read the Chronological this year. I’ve been reading this for nearly 10 years and usually read your comments. I’m so blessed. My wife is home in Hospice care. They left me alone to care for Pat on my own through this next phase. She wouldn’t eat, drink, or take any of her meds. I was concerned through the evening. Went to bed, She slept all night and is still sleeping this morning. Our God is an amazing God.i prayed and He answered and the Holy Spirit is giving me peace
Alan

======= Shane:

I loved Deutero 33:29. As the “Israel of God” we can say with Moses that we are “a people saved by the Lord.” And isn’t it wonderful that our Lord is both a shield, to ward off our enemies, and a sword to conquer them.
Shane

======= Roslyn:

Then Jesus said, “What is the Kingdom of God like? How can I illustrate it? It is like a tiny mustard seed planted in a garden; it grows and becomes a tree, and the birds come and find shelter among its branches.”
How true!!! When one is filled with God’s Word, one bubbles with joy and the Spirit. People naturally and freely gravitate toward us like the birds of the air finding shelter on the branches of the mustard tree! We don’t have to “force” people to listen to the Word, they’ll come to “discover” the Word…
Mike—
That looks more like the water buffaloes that we have in Asia. They’re called carabaos in the Philippines.
Roslyn

======= Jan:

Roslyn, oh how I wish this were true all the time,”How true!!! When one is filled with God’s Word, one bubbles with joy and the Spirit. People naturally and freely gravitate toward us like the birds of the air finding shelter on the branches of the mustard tree! We don’t have to “force” people to listen to the Word, they’ll come to “discover” the Word…”
Sometimes we are the stench of death to some & the beautiful aroma/fragance of life/Christ to others. I used to think that being a Christian meant that everyone would love me…wrong again. Most of the time we/Christians are a thorn in the side of the world (which is what Christ said, that we would bring division & a sword). The world is the enemy of Christ anyway (per His Word, not mine).
When you are an intercessor, there is sorrow & grief to bear; you wake up at all hours of the night praying in the Spirit & you don’t even know for who or what you are praying…but it is not joy, it is deep intercession & grieving of the Spirit that you are experiencing. I wish that the world was turned on by discovering what He has to offer, but not so (in general). The “world” is at enmity with God & satan is the ruler of this world but not the ultimate Ruler.
The only “force” that will woo people to the Word made flesh/Jesus is the Holy Spirit & none come to Him/God the Father except through the Son/Jesus.
Rosalyn, I do understand your joy & zeal this morning, but there is another side to living for Christ & counting it all joy that the trying of our faith produces patience & endurance; the joy of the Lord is our strength.
Jan
p.s. The Lord just confirmed something to me in regard to my post above:
Psalm 126:5-6 – 5 Those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy. 6 He who goes out weeping, carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with him.

======= Roslyn:

Jan,
I do understand the other side of being a Christian—bearing sorrows and bearing them deeply for others…
And you’re right again on some Christians being very unChristian, unloving. We have them walking around on the face of this earth seemingly “proclaiming” The Word and then turn around and behave in abominable ways.
But they should not come in the way of expressing our own joy and love, of being alive in Christ and the Spirit.
Roslyn

======= Emily:

Repentance before God is a powerful gesture from our end. It is not only admitting that we are sinful but it also glorifies God as we totally submit before him with all vulnerability.
Not everyone chooses to repent or accept God. There were two thieves crucified by Jesus’ side. Even as one of them was in agony he cursed Jesus. But the other one showed faith and Asked Jesus to remember him in His kingdom. Jesus’ acceptance of that thief was almost instantaneous, ”Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise.” Luke 23:43(ESV)
But on the other hand many Roman soldeirs and those responsible for Christ’s crucifixion and those who saw a huge curtain torn into two (Mark:15:38) did not believe in Jesus. Even many kept ridiculing Jesus until he breathed his last.
Compare this to Jacob who some say, wrestled with God!  It was God, angel or some saint is left for speculation. But Jacob’s will and persistence to win favour is notable:
”When the man saw that he did not prevail against Jacob, he touched his hip socket, and Jacob’s hip was out of joint as he wrestled with him. Then he said, ‘Let me go, for the day has broken.” But Jacob said, ‘I will not let you go unless you bless me.’… Then he said to him, ”Your name shall no longer be called Jacob, but Israel.’ ” Genesis 32:25-28 (ESV)
I hope the lord also healed Jacob’s hip right after this blessing! 
Emily

======= John:

Luke 13 1-21
Today is my two year anniversary of accepting Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior. While reading through Luke’s passages today, it struck me how often I ingored God’s warnings to me of “Repent or Perish”. Just as Jesus was warning the Jewish nation in these verses.
I thought I was invincible: Good genes, good education, always enough money, work hard, play hard, etc. Looking back, there were miraculous warnings that I was NOT invincible.
In the Navy, I fell from near the top of a Carrier hangar deck to the steel deck below, and once passed out in a secluded space from leaking freon – only to be pulled out by the hourly “watch” who happened to be passing by at 3:00 a.m.
There were Car wrecks (in the days before air bags) where the vehicle was completely totaled, muggings and assaults in NYC, partying in the wrong parts of town in various foreign countries, etc. In all eight or nine times I came close to death or being very seriously injured.
Often the police or passers-by said “You are the Luckiest guy I ever met.” Never had a broken bone, never seriously hurt, never cared about the implications of my mortality and what came next. The odds of coming through unscathed in ALL these instances are astronomical.
It seems I was preserved for a point in time when I would accept His Son, despite my careless approach to life.
Maybe that is why I am so careful now in trying to understand God’s Word. I had heard differing interpretations of the mustard seed and leaven parables, and never really thought about the “fig tree” parable. Bob’s commentary is worth reading, in that it may be different from what one would think on the surface.
“The kingdom of God is like this, Jesus says. The Jews who think they are righteous will reject Christ and will refuse to repent, and thus they will be judged as a nation. The fig tree will be cut down. And in its place will be a mustard tree, as it were, the church. By trying to conceal the truth from the Gentiles, the nation has only proven to have unwittingly spread it abroad—God’s unfaithful and uncooperative evangelists.”
http://www.bible.org/page.asp?page_id=1114
(link same as Mike’s above)
John

======= Brian:

I have a HUGE prayer request for my family and I. We have been attending a church for the past 5 years. My wife and I have a daughter who will be 6 soon and going into the “big girl” church. The teachers in there are not good in controlling the kids. The youth pastor does not have good control of the teens. My wife and I do not feel challenged by the sermons. We want to move to a new church but that is scary. Please pray that the Lord will give us the right church to attend. I have a HUGE praise. I am almost finished with my first year of nursing school. I feel the Lord working in me each day when I am taking care of my patients. The Lord opened up the right doors for me to do this even wehn he closed the door of being a teacher for 10 years.
Brian

======== Daniel:

“An anxious heart weighs a man down, but a kind word cheers him up.” so true are those words. sometimes my heart is always down, especially when i see people fight over nothing. but the little things in life really cheers me up, like i bought 2 button down shirts for 16 bucks today.
Daniel

======= Kate:

thanks Mike for your word of encouragement to us today. thank you to you too for all the work you put into the Bible blog. i have tried one year Bible reading before, but never actualy managed it until this year – and the encouragement is having the blog as my home page -there every time I switch on the computer. I find the pictures really helpful, even if some are a little odd (the unicorn!, and we used some in our Good Friday meditation at church this year. I also find it so encouraging to note that I am sharing this endeavour with Christians around the world. a Happy Easter to everyone – keep blogging!
Kate

======= Kim:

Good word today, isn’t it awesome how the Lord speaks to us exactly where we are?!
Yesterday I spoke an “unkind word” to someone already dealing with an anxious heart. Okay, I will make things right with that person today.
…like the picture above says, Transformed by the renewing of our mind….
Kim

======= Laura:

Kim: I agree with your thoughts on being transformed by a renewed mind which we know comes from todays readings in Romans 12:2. I have felt conviction by they very thing you spoke of in regards to saying an unkind word. One of the things that I struggle with often is gossip. I have asked the Lord to deliver me from that sin. I tend to put up walls so that I won’t be hurt by others and sometimes those walls include unkind words and gossip. The world can be very unkind, but as Christians we have a standard to uphold.
Last night at church on Easter Sunday, our pastor didn’t give the typical Easter message but instead spoke on the subject of being transformed. The service was very spiritual and touched all who were there. Many folks came to the alter weeping in repentance and were washed by the Spirit and healed. It was truely a unique and differant but beautiful Easter message. I felt very convicted of my own sins. I am stuggling at work and trying to get along with a very difficult supervisor. Yesterday I saw her in a very different light. She broke down in tears on her cell phone during her break and I walked in during her conversation. After she hung up we were able to share and have a good conversation. I didn’t give her the gospel message but tried to be encouraging and friendly as a Christian would be. She is not a Christian and I can see the pain and struggles which many non-Christians go through especially during holidays such as Easter, when expectations as the world sees them are not met. I am glad that I can now view people in a differant light and have more of a heart of compassion. We has Christians have to set aside our selfishness and see sin as it is. A am very greatfull for the Ressurection of Christ and the newing of our minds in Christ.
Laura

========= Ashley:

I will have to say I totally agree with the picture of Romans 12:2 picture b/c if u let your life show that u let the son live in your heart u will stand out and when others hear u give kind words u know that it might just make there day.. I know when people used to give me compliments i wouldn’t totally agree with them but look at it this way if u are being blessed just take the blessing because u know its from god and u wouldn’t deny him giving u a kind word.. well that’s all that i have on my heart to share………
Ashley

======= Jean:

Luke13:8-9
Noticed that previously nothing is mentioned about the upkeep of the tree before the master says it has to be cut down, but the man who took care of the vineyard said for next one year he will take note to dig around it and put fertilizer on it. That is to say the man will get personal with the fig tree but if it doesn’t produce then the man will let it be cut down. God works the same way he will increase more one on one time, digging around and adding more fertilizer just to keep us from dying in sin. At the end of the day it will still be upto us to utilize all what He has done for us and bare fruits. So look around and if it seems that there is more time, better technology and resources to study the word of God maybe He is doing some pesonal digging around and fertilizing just to save you from a sinful death. Just like the man in the parable who took it upon himself to take extra care of the fig tree lets us be more attentive to realize when the Lord God is doing extra digging for us.
Jean

======= Kathy:

Mike, I just had to say that I was feeling a little sad too, but mostly because Moses, after all he went thru leading the people of Israel, didn’t get to even go into the promised land for just a little while. SAD!!
Kathy

======= Bill:

Speaking a kind work to others is like speaking life into that soul.
We may never know what that person’s background is, where they come from, what internal and spiritual struggles are going on in that person, etc… a kind word, a smile, a friendly “Hello” may be all it takes.
God said we are to build each other up, not tear each other down.
It is my humble plea and prayer for others to see Jesus in me, His love, His compassion, His mercy, His grace, and His Holy Spirit. To be able to hear the voice of the Lord and walk in the Spirit is what i am striving for.
Thank you and praise God for your ministry, may He continue to bless you and others through this journey of faith and knowledge.
Wisdom is knowledge applied, and God does speak to us through His word.
May God open our Spiritual ears, hearts, minds, eyes, and soul to all that He wants for our lives. in Jesus name
Bill

======= Luch:

Reading the Torah this time around helped as I also used Rabbi Russell Resnik’s (messianic Jew) Gateways to Torah. A fascinating commentary on the first five books.
Luch

======= Art:

The ‘anxious heart’ thing really hit me today. I’ve got way too much going on in my business life right now that I’m anxious about — even though I know it is also God’s blessing. I know God will handle it all in His time in His way and so I’m convicted for worrying so much about it (implying that sometimes, despite wanting to, I don’t fully trust Him to do so).
Re. Deuteronomy, I found it interesting how Moses blessed Levi and how the directive for that OT priesthood resonates with the stance of our ultimate high priest in Jesus. Specifically, Moses says, in verses 8-10 here in chapter 33(NIV):
“…the man you favored… said of his father and mother, ‘I have no regard for them.’ He did not recognize his brothers or acknowledge his own children, but he watched over your word and guarded your covenant. He teaches your precepts to Jacob and your law to Israel.”
That seemed to ‘echo’ quite strongly with Jesus talking about who his real mother and brothers were in Luke 8:19-21, Mark 3:31-35 and Matthew 12:46-50, which reads, in part:
“‘Who is my mother, and who are my brothers?’ Pointing to his disciples, [Jesus] said, ‘Here are my mother and my brothers. For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother.’”
The point, as I read it seems to be that being true to God and His word means putting that above all else, including (with the utmost gentleness and love) our own family in the world. It’s a really tough one, but with many family members being unbelievers, I’ve had to come to grips with it.
Art

======= Jim:

Speaking of unicorns… The unicorn signifies Christ and the defeated ram symbolized Rome and the teachings of all other religions that would fall to the teachings of Christ. The unicorn’s fierce wildness is to show the inability of hell to hold Christ and the single horn represents the unity of God and Christ as one. The 72 Jewish scholars that wrote the Septuagint had no idea which animal the Hebrew writers had in mind when speaking of the re’em (below), only that it was described as being fast, fierce, and indomitable, with a horned brow. They called it a unicorn (later translators called it a rhinoceros and today is mostly called a wild ox).
God brought them out of Egypt; he hath as it were the strength of the unicorn.
— Numbers 23:22
His glory is like the firstling of his bullock, and his horns are like the horns of the unicorn: with them he shall push the people together to the ends of the earth.
— Deuteronomy 33:17
Be not thou far from me, O Lord. Deliver my soul from the sword. My darling from the power of the dog. Save me from the lion’s mouth. For thou hast heard me from the horns of the nicorns.
— Psalm 22:20-22
The voice of the Lord breaketh the cedars; yea, the Lord breaketh the cedars of Lebanon. He maketh them also to skip like a calf; Lebanon and Sirion like a young unicorn.
— Psalms 29:1-6
But my horn shall thou exalt like the horn of the unicorn; I shall be anointed with fresh oil.
— Psalm 92:10
And the unicorn shall come down with them, and the bullocks with their bulls; and their land shall be soaked with blood, and their dust made fat with fatness.
— Isaiah 34:6-7
Will the unicorn be willing to serve thee or abide in thy crib? Canst thou bind the unicorn with his band in the furrow? or will he harrow the valleys after thee? Will thou trust him because his strength is great? Or will thou leave thy labour to him? Will thou believe him, that he will bring home thy seed, and gather it into thy barn?
— Job 39:9-12
Jim

======= Elizabeth:

Hello All,
Regarding Proverbs 12:25,
“Anxiety in a man’s heart weighs him down, but a good word makes him glad.”
I appreciated this verse this morning because I am prone to seasons of acute anxiety and am currently working my way through one. I had a Christian friend send me several scriptures on anxiety just yesterday–what great balm for my heart. A good word IS soothing and makes the heart glad–especially biblical truth. Thank God for friends! : )
Here are the verses she sent if you are curious:
Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. (1 Peter 5:7)
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6-7)
Martha, Martha, the Lord answered, you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her. (Luke 10:41-42)
For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline. (2 Timothy 1:7)
Cast your cares on the LORD and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall. (Psalm 55:22)
When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought joy to my soul. (Psalm 94:19)
Search me, 0 God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. (Psalm 139:23-24)
Elizabeth

======= Amy:

Thank you Elizabeth, those scriptures are a blessing!
Amy

======= Teriann:

I too was touched by Moses’ final words. After all the dire predictions, Moses ends on a positive note of encouragement, and then his last words are praise to God. I pray that my final words in this world will be like that.
There was so much in Luke today. Jesus starts by asking some pointed questions about suffering. I know that personally when I hear of some great suffering my first reaction is to look for some reason why they might deserve it. That way I can then tell myself that it won’t happen to me. Jesus explodes this line of thinking by pointing out that we all deserve the penalty of sin which is death. The parable of the fig tree shows the patience of God which is not to be confused with God winking at sin. Un-repented of and un-attoned for sin always causes death.
Then there is the healing of the woman on the sabbath. Jesus rebukes the rulers for putting their religion before people. The point of the sabbath was to worship God who is loving and compassionate. How can we truly worship God and not have a love for His people?
I love how this sweeping historic psalm 78 ends with David shepherding the people. What a beautiful picture of Jesus!
We all know that worry is a lack of faith and it is sin but I was admonished today by our proverb to be gentle with those who are in this place. Kindness and encouragement are sometimes what is called for.
Teriann

======= Debbie:

I just want to say Thank you Mike for the Bible Blog! It is a blessing to us each morning and gets us started with God’s Word in our heart. My husband and I enjoy together. Our neighbor was joining us for a while and is now using the blog on his own too. God bless you!
Debbie

======= Max:

It seems that matter how hard I try not to sin that I always slip up in some way or another but my walk with Christ is a dedicated one and I thank him for his abundant grace and unfaltering forgiveness. He picks me up dusts off my knees and helps me move forward. A friend introduced me to this website and the spiritual manna I receive from it helps me forgive myself. Thank you so much and may God bless.
Max

======= Joyce:

Mike and everyone,
Today in the New Testament, I am reminded to repent my sins often, turn away from wicked ways, follow God’s Truth, and bear fruit for Him. Don’t want to be lost eternally …
“I tell you, No; but unless you repent (change your mind for the better and heartily amend your ways, with abhorrence of your past sins), you will all likewise perish and be lost eternally.” (Luke 13:5 Amplified Bible)
pray that as believers wholehearted follow Him —
“… that they may be called oaks of righteousness [lofty, strong, and magnificent, distinguished for uprightness, justice, and right standing with God], the planting of the Lord, that He may be glorified.” (Isaiah 61:3 Amplified Bible)
God bless!
Joyce

======= Jill:

Talk about anxiety! It’s hard not to feel the weight on your shoulder when you have a disease called PD. Every day you have challenges. How can one rise above it? I was always a carefree person loving ppl but now my life is changing. Any ideas?
Jill

======= Sandra:

I’m truly grateful for the One Year Bible and this blog. The OYB is the first Bible that enabled me to read through the entire text, and this marks my fourth year of doing so. Last year, I explored the Chronological OYB, but in April, I returned to this version. Ramona, I always appreciate your comments and eagerly anticipate them each day. Thank you, Mike, for maintaining the blog, and a special thanks to Ramona for your continuous engagement!
Sandra

======= Dee:

A KIND HEART and laughter is like medicine to the soul. I pray for the anxious! I pray my Teacher will grade kindly to my paper. I pray for my husband’s new ministry help starting at church tomorrow. Lord keep us safe. I thank u for covenants! I thank u for mustard like faith and I can’t wait to read again about David’s life!
Dee

Deuteronomy 32:28-52 + Luke 12:35-59 + Psalm 78:56-64 + Proverbs 12:24
~ Click here to read today’s Scripture on Bible Gateway ~
~ Listen to today’s Scripture with Tom Dooley’s terrific NLT 1996 readings at this link or The ESV Bible: OT + NT + Psalms + Proverbs ~

Old Testament – These words of Moses today in Deuteronomy chapter 32 verse 47 stood out to me – “These instructions are not mere words–they are your life!”   Wow.  Do we think this way about the Bible?  Are these mere words we read in the Bible?  Or are they our very life?

New Testament – In Luke chapter 12 verse 40, Jesus is speaking about his second coming at the end of the age – “You must be ready all the time, for the Son of Man will come when least expected.”  But, this verse also always seems to speak to me about the end of my life here on earth as well.  One of 2 things will happen during our life that will bring our earthly life as we know it to an end – 1.  Jesus’ second coming (which no one knows the day or hour) or 2. we will die.  I know it’s not something we all want to think about… but someday our earthly bodies will die.  And I guess when I read verse 40 above, it makes me realize that not only do we not know the day or hour when Jesus’ 2nd coming will be.  We also don’t know the day or the hour of the end of our life either.  So…  this verse then speaks to me clearly – you must be ready all the time!  And, I don’t view this as something to be anxious over.  But, I do think it’s serious for us to consider.  I don’t know about you – but sometimes I’m a procrastinator.  And when it comes to our faith in Jesus, there is no luxury of procrastination.  We must have faith in Jesus, be living for Jesus, and really, be willing to die for Jesus – today.  Now.  Not tomorrow.  Today.   Are you ready all the time?

Chapter 12 verse 48 is also a powerful teaching from Jesus for us today – “But people who are not aware that they are doing wrong will be punished only lightly. Much is required from those to whom much is given, and much more is required from those to whom much more is given.”  This is convicting…  think about it.  The more we begin to know about Jesus and God and the Bible, the more we essentially have been “given.”  And when this holy knowledge has been given to us – much is required.  Much is expected.  Maybe in our past we were not aware of our sins.  Maybe we were not aware of sin at all really.  Today, if we have been blessed with the knowledge of living by Jesus’ teachings, we should not be acting as we did in the past when we did not know any better.  Have you been given much?  Are you living up to what is required of you?

Bible.org’s commentary on our Luke chapter 12 readings today titled “The Way to Wait” is at this link and commentary titled “The Consequences of Christ’s Coming” is at this link.

Psalms – Psalm 78 verse 57 is a metaphor that I pray is never used upon any of us! 🙂  “They were as useless as a crooked bow.”  Can you imagine a worse insult?  Well, yeah, I suppose there are worse.  But coming from a Psalmist, this is no good.  What does it mean to be a crooked bow?  What does it mean to be a straight bow?  How is your bow these days?  Crooked, and perhaps focused on things of this world?  (and thus basically useless)  Or straight, and focused on advancing the Kingdom of God in your life and the lives of others around you?  (and thus very useful)

Proverbs – Proverbs chapter 12 verse 24 is great wisdom for each of us today – “Work hard and become a leader; be lazy and become a slave.”   I do think each of us are called to be “leaders” in various aspects of our lives.  Leaders in the home.  Leaders at school.  Leaders at work.  Leaders at our church.  Even if maybe you don’t think you are a “leader” per se – maybe you’re not comfortable with public speaking or whatever – I think you’re still a leader.  At the very least, we obviously have to lead our own lives. 

Worship Video:  Today’s readings in Luke chapter 12 reminded me of the MercyMe song “All of Creation:”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UADsz7ToO8w

Are you singing with all of creation? Click here and sing!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on two verses of Scripture today: “But understand this: If the owner of the house had known at what hour the thief was coming, he would not have let his house be broken into. You also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.”” Luke 12:39-40 NIV

Prayer Point: Pray that you are ready for Jesus to return right this very moment. Pray that you will always stay ready for Jesus’ return, and that you will not quench the Spirit by sinning. Pray earnestly, “Come Lord, Jesus, quickly come!”

Comments from You & Questions of the Day:  Based on our Proverb, in all of the areas you are called to be a leader in your life, are you working hard?  Or, by chance, are you being lazy in some areas?  Will you work hard and become a leader?  Will you work hard and walk the path of leadership? Also, what verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings?  Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 – Download a schedule of our Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 – I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!

BLOG READERS HISTORICAL COMMUNITY COMMENTS:
(our Group Bible Study is below! : )

======= Ramona:

Deuteronomy 32:28-52
As The Song of Moses is completed in this reading, I’m amazed how God has given Israel a song to sing about themselves. It is not a song that focuses on their past history but a song that spells out their future. This Song is not a false prophecy given by a false god to a false leader, Moses; but a song that correctly tells of their turning away from God who is about to bring them into their Promise Land, and the consequences that will ensue.
I’m reminded of Jesus’ Words to Peter, “Assuredly, I say to you that this night, before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times.” Jesus told Peter less than twenty-four hours before it actually happened. God knows our beginning from our end.
Luke 12:35-59
The Girl and Boy Scouts have nothing on God, “Be Prepared,” did not start with them. Their preparedness is about doing the things necessary to take care of the body; Jesus’ preparedness is all about the spirit and soul.
39 “Know this: A homeowner who knew exactly when a burglar was coming would not permit the house to be broken into. 40 You must be ready all the time, for the Son of Man will come when least expected.”
Psalm 78:56-64
As the Song of Moses ends with today’s Deuteronomy so too the 78th Psalm ends and continues mirroring the Song. But know time has past and Moses’ Song has gone from completely pointing to the future, to being partially fulfilled in the hearing of those in the Temple singing this Psalm. I wonder with all of God’s foretelling and foreknowledge and in the singing of Psalm 78 in the Temple did it ever occur to the singer and listener that they were singing about their own sad sorry fallen state? Am I singing the song of my own downfall refusing to pay attention to the words that speak about me?
Proverbs 12:24
I think I prefer the Amplified Bible’s translation of this verse,
24 The hand of the diligent will rule, but the slothful will be put to forced labor.
Grace and peace,
Ramona

======= Anka:

“They are not just idle words for you—they are your life. By them you will live long in the land you are crossing the Jordan to possess.”
Without faith it is impossible to please God,faith comes by hearing the word of God…without faith it is impossible to have eternal life.Are the words of God/the bible just idle words or as some think…a history book?There’s a huge difference between those who believe the bible is a word from God and those who read it as literature…one group gets reconciled to God,has a hope,a future beyond death…the other continue to keep their distance from God,live in this world of chaos preffering not to think of what happens after they die(or come up with ridiculous ideas of life after death).
God gives us a choice to choose life or death….to make an educated choice,I think we really ought to know what the book of life says about both.
God bless you all
Anka

======= Shane:

Deutero 32 is the basis for Jonathan Edwards’ most famous sermone, “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God.”
Verse 42, which is rendered by the NASB as: “I will make My arrows drunk with blood, And My sword will devour flesh, With the blood of the slain and the captives, From the long-haired leaders of the enemy” is not something you hear preached on much. But that is a picture of what Christ’s blood saves us from: the wrath of God.
In Luke today, I think we see a Christ that is NEVER preached these days. Can you imagine a preacher saying that Christ came “not to bring peace, but division”? But indeed, it is so. And thankfully so. For if Christ didn’t not come to save us from the rest of the fallen world, we would bear the brunt of “many stripes” and be the targed for the arrows of His wrath.
A similar picture of God is present in the 78th Psalm.
I’m so thankful that the God who abhors sin so much, also made payment for it.
Shane

======= Jean:

i believe that definitely we’re called to become leaders in this world. in many ways, we are competing with children of this world, b/c our characters reflect the upbringing of our Father
Jean

======= Johnnie:

I am definitely a leader in several areas of my life. I assist my choir director, but I have noticed that because of this position that God has given me, I am considered a leader. Many times our position of leadership doesn’t look like leadership at all, but of that of a servant. Wait — isn’t that what Christ wants us to be — servants to one another?
Johnnie

======= Jenny:

As in Luke’s writings, I know that to much is given, be it wisdom, opportunity, material blessing, watever it is, we have a responsibility wat we do with it. We tend to make many intentional mistakes I think wen we are younger in Christ, but the more we learn the more God will reveal to us this and we are then aware it is sin, and things intentional sins, if continued practiced will be outright sin. I think its a lifelong journey. Things I never thought wrong God is gently showing me, um..you should not be doing that. but He isnt leaving me helpless, He is assuring me, Let Me help you to change. I cant change me but God can!
I certainly am ready to leave this life, whether via rapture or my bodily death. I have seen lots of death in my life, so its very real to me. It will happen, but all I know is I will be with Jesus! That is so exciting! Course the rapture could happen during my life…I’d be thrilled to partake in that!! but either way, its the same destination.
Gosh, i sure dont call myself a leader. I am hardworking, but I rather be a servant bcos thats wat God has called me to be. Jesus is my leader. reminds me of MercyMe’s song No More, No less..”I’m not saying: follow me. I’m not the one one who leads!”
I hesitate to say i lead my life, i want to be led by the spirit, i want to follow Jesus…i just dont trust myself…I’m a sheep and i need to follow`my Shepard bcos i get myself into trouble wen i try to run the show.
I went to bed pondering yesterday’s Proverbs reading: “No harm comes to the godly, but the wicked have their fill of trouble.”
We know godly or not, we all experience trouble. true it could refer to the eternal but I’m being shown that this is actually saying, we all reap wat we sow. The godly who sow good will reap good fruit, and the ungodly produce bad fruit, their own mistakes, sin, and wrong decisions will cause trouble. I know many ungodly who by their bad choices, are experiencing the consequences. they sorrow, but many times its our own actions that get us in trouble! but many godly go through many trials not due to a sin in our lives, but perhaps God is testing us, putting us through the fire, wounding us to heal us, or disciplining us.. or we are just experiencing life in this fallen world. God doesnt discipline the ungodly, but only His children.
So perhaps this is referring to the actions of leading an ungodly life which will lead to their harm bcos they are experiencing the consequences.
Jenny

======= Amrita:

Thank you for your encouragment Mike.
If internet was cheaper I woould have visted more often and watched the videos too.
Good solid Bible teaching, that ‘s what I like.
Amrita

====== Skip:

Luke 12:39-40 stood out to me today. Actually, every time I read these versus they stand out to me.
“Luke 12:39-40
39 But understand this: If the owner of the house had known at what hour the thief was coming, he would not have let his house be broken into. 40 You also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.””
Be ready always. Although no one knows when Jesus is coming back, not the angels in Heaven, not even the Son but only God knows of that day and hour. Mike makes a good point that these versus not only speak of the second coming of Christ but also of our individual death; so be ready.
I do believe we are living in the end time. The signs are all around us that Jesus is coming; right at the door. Be ready always because the Son of man comes when you least expect Him.
Come soon oh Lord!
Yours in Christ
Skip

======= Grant:

Hi Mike,
Deuteronomy 32:47 really jumped off the page for me today! “For it is not an idle word for you; indeed it is your life. (NASB)” Wow. Reading the Word daily really is so important. I have to admit I have missed my reading a couple times this week and I have observed how anxious and less confident I am. I need it! Thank you for your diligence with this blog.
On a further note. I have enjoyed Deuteronomy this year. It is really speaking to me.
Blessings,
Grant

======= Tracy:

I have been wanting to study Deuteronomy this year, somehow drawn to it – delighted therefore to stumble upon your website!
Tracy

======= Teriann:

I found the last line of Moses’ song to be the most profound, v.43 He will make atonement for His land and people. The whole song is prophetic but this verse is the key for that is exactly what Jesus did!
In Luke 12 Jesus taught to always be ready; to always be found doing what God has called us to do. This life is not about gratifying the flesh which is perishing anyway, but building up the spirit or inner man which is eternal. Jesus went on to teach that truth and life will always be in opposition to lies and death and we should be able to discern this and stop fighting with each other.
This portion of Ps.78 pictures what happens to those who reject God in favor of gods of the flesh. And Proverbs 12:24 brings us right back to Jesus teaching with one word, diligence. I think that’s what God requires of us most of the time, plain old boring diligence. Sure we will have moments when great faith and courage are required of us but the rest of the time it’s a matter of keeping on keeping on; of reading His word each day; of choosing to be kind and speaking words that edify; of forgiving our brother as we have been forgiven. We are preparing for heaven, I think it helps to keep an eternal perspective.
Teriann

======= Cora:

Luke:35 to 59
Being spiritually prepared is what we need at this very moment.We are now experiencing the signs of times…although nobody knows the exact time and date “we need to be spiritually ready and pray hard as we patiently wait for the Joyful Second Coming Of Our Lord Jesus Christ”
Cora

======= Bobbie:

I Pray not to miss the coming of the Lord.If God Let me experience His coming ,I’d be very thankful, but if not ,He will take me before His coming then I’m thankful also…But importantly to learn more righteousness because that is the will of god..
Bobbie

======= Tina:

Me and my family will always like your blog!
Tina

======= Jim:

Mike,
Your comments regarding the “last days” and what that means to all of us individually is “spot on”. We are all in our “last days”, we know not when we will take our last breath and we know not when Jesus will return. Let’s be prepared. I pray that God’s people stop spending countless hours on their beliefs about “pre-tribulation” rapture and things that the Lord does not clearly make known to us. Today is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad! Not toss it aside as if a 1000 tomorrows are a given. And I am telling this to myself : )  as much as anyone else. I was reminded today of a pastor’s sermon to “bloom where you are planted” . . . God has planted you where you are for a reason!
In Christ
Jim

========= Bob:

Wow we are really getting blasted today. Moses gets to see but not go to the Promised Land. Jesus warns us to be prepared all the time and gives us a heavy on choosing Him instead of family. Psalm 78 reminds of mistakes we have made and warns us about abandoning God. Proverbs tells us to step up to the plate and not be so lazy. IM TIRED. When we start to hear the negative in everything, its time to put on a new outfit, eh? So I look for a positive word from God when I hear too many downers.
For Moses, he gets to see the future God has provided for the Israelites. Look at the beautiful blessing God gives to them in Chapter 33! Nice. Then in Luke, when we are obsessed with our own sense of responsibility and self importance, did we really read and believe what God said to us about worry, just before this in Luke 12: 22-34? Where is our treasure? Simple. These particular psalms (77 and 78) are written for us to lament the difficulties in our lives and prepare for the time to really celebrate the Easter Resurrection that displays God’s wonderful love for us. I can’t wait. I am feeling happier already! I like what God says right after Proverbs 12:24 and in verse 25 tells me how I can cheer someone else up. Be kind today. May the Holy Spirit fill you with abundant joy.
Bob

======= Cathy:

Thank you all for your insights.
Blessings.
Cathy

======= Jill:

Mike you did not elaborate about how Jesus says I did come to bring peace but division. Luke 10:51. This amazes me because we try so hard to be at peace with everyone! This is a contradiction to me. Jesus calls us to be peacemakers did he not? But I believe there are break downs in relationships especially family. But we as Christians must be on guard. We must be ready. Amd much expected from those of us given much! Luke 10:47.
Jill

======= Joyce:

Mike and everyone,
In Bible.org’s commentary, Bob Deffinbaugh’s The Way to Wait (Luke 12:35-48) this stood out to me:
“… the time of His return would be a time when they would not expect Him … but the righteous must accept this truth and be in a constant state of readiness. This will require discipline and diligence, but that is what discipleship is all about.”
May we strive to be the diligent servants.
This is such a beautiful, hopeful picture:
Luke 12:37
Blessed (happy, fortunate, and to be envied) are those servants whom the master finds awake and alert and watching when he comes. Truly I say to you, he will gird himself and have them recline at table and will come and serve them! (Amplified Bible)
God bless everyone here!
Joyce

======= Dee:

Woohoo..deut 32 ending . Speaking of futuristic things and psalm 78 ends with poem of the sadness of Israelites. We r getting super close towards Moses taking his final journey to his eternal home and Israelites finally entering the promise given to them. Joshua will lead the way. Beautiful
Your words spoke truth and conviction to me today about leadership. Am I a leader? Am I truly working hard at leading or being lazy and cutting corners at times. Both of these could he true. I have a degree in Teacher Leadership but many days do not feel it in Leadership. This is a hard one and not to be taken lightly. As the verses say to much is given much is required. If you know better you do better, but if you keep doing the same things and thinking you will get different results, your wrong. Leadership is a process and it is a process of chipping away at the imperfections and laziness to stay diligent and true. Leaders are not meant for the weak and faint hearted..they are for the solid, sincere, strong, committed and fixed on a goal to produce results..that is Leadership that I have found out these days.
God bless
Dee

======= Ramona:

Deuteronomy 32:28-52
Moreover, brethren, I would not that ye should be ignorant, how that all our fathers were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea; And were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea; And did all eat the same spiritual meat; And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ. But with many of them God was not well pleased: for they were overthrown in the wilderness. Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted. (1 Corinthians 10:1-6 KJV)
There is a definite theme running through today’s Old Testament passage, the word’s of Jesus, Psalms and Proverbs, the handling of the Word of God.
But he that knew not, and did commit things worthy of stripes, shall be beaten with few stripes. For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more. (Luke 12:48 KJV), speaks to the Song of Moses, the sad song of the future falling away of Israel, which continues from yesterday’s reading; the reading in Psalms, that rehearses Israel’s journey in the desert, as well as her behavior in her own land, confirms as a done deal, the future foretold in Moses’ Song, and the Proverb passage sums up what happens when we allow sin to take a leadership position in our lives, we become enslaved. All four readings give warning for us today and hopefully an encouragement for us to OBEY the Word we have heard and read because we are given a birds eye view of the consequences of disobedience.
Grace and peace,
Ramona

======= John:

Luke 12:35-59
In the NIV I had a hard time with the last three verses. They just don’t make sense to me as translated by NIV (and most other versions).
Jesus is talking to disciples about watchfulness (a parable), not peace but division (straightforward), interpreting the times (comparison) and then…
Then Jesus says, “Why don’t you judge for yourselves what is right?”, and as most commentators will say gives a symbolic example of being on the way to civilian court. I just don’t get what reconciling oneself with an adversary before going to court has to do with – being prepared for Jesus’ coming, the divisive nature of his gospel, or being aware that these (for the Jews at that time) are Messianic times.
I looked at the KJV:
Luke 12:57-59
“Yea, and why even of yourselves judge ye not what is right? When thou goest with thine adversary to the magistrate, as thou art in the way, give diligence that thou mayest be delivered from him; lest he hale thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the officer, and the officer cast thee into prison. I tell thee, thou shalt not depart thence, till thou hast paid the very last mite.”
And the Greek text
I think when one realizes that “reconciled” is better translated “delivered” and “in the way” does not mean “on the way” We get a much more explicit warning.
Here is my paraphrase:
‘You judge what is right. Don’t depend on pharisees, neighbors, or your family. You decide. When you are heading with Satan (adversary) before God (ruler), as you are in that way of life (or course of conduct), give diligence to free yourself from him, lest he get you before Jesus (judge) and He condemns you and turns you over to angel (officer) and you are thrown in hell (prison). Where you will not be let out until the “full” debt is paid. That sentence is “eternity” as one can never pay off the burdens of sin on our own merits.’
The idea of “in” (Gk. en) being “within” rather than on comes from here #8. “en” is never used for “on”.
That paraphrase of a symbolic civil dispute makes more sense to me given the leadup to these passages. At least that is my opinion.
Of course the only way to “free yourself from the adversary” is to repent your sins, turn to God and accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior.
John

======= Shane:

John, forgive me, but I think your paraphrase misses two key, but subtle, points.
First, Jesus is not telling them to “judge for themselves” as opposed to asking other people. Rather, by the previous examples Christ has explained that it is, or should be, obvious to them what is coming in the way of judgment. He’s making the point that they know when various types of weather are coming from the signs they observe, and since they’re aware of the signs in the OT, and are now aware of what Christ is saying, they are without excuse.
Secondly, the little parable of the two on the way to the magistrate illustrates this contrast: in the magistrate example there are three parties, and you (the defendant) may settle with the plaintiff prior to going before the magistrate. However, God is both the plaintiff (really prosecutor) and the judge. So there is no chance to settle without payment in full.
So God must do something as both judge and prosecutor, which as you know, He did through Christ.
Got longwinded… stopping now.  : )
Shane

======= John:

Shane, that is certainly the way most commentators refer to this passage.
Maybe I got thrown off by the word “adversary” as that is often used to refer to Satan. In his role as “great accuser” it seemed prosecutorial. Never really thought of God in a prosecutor role. Although as sinners or lovers of the world, we would be in opposition (enemies) to God.
Also got bothered by word “reconcile” or “settled”.
Greek
“apallossa”
1) to remove, release, to be removed, to depart
2) to set free, deliver
The definitions did not have the connotation of reconciliation. More in the way of “get away from”. Did not think of God as someone to get away from or “depart from”.
Oh well, certainly not the first time I have struggled with passages or little bothersome feelings. Perhaps I was searching for something that is not really there? Appreciate your input.
John

======= Shane:

John, if you look at the writings of the minor prophets, whenever they speak of some day of judgment against Israel/Judah, they’ll say that people will try to hide from Lord, and the like.
I understand what you’re saying with Satan as an accuser, and accuse he does. But Satan accuses the children of God, while God accuses the children of the world. So when we’re accused against, we turn to God. When the children of the world are accused against, they must pay every ounce they owe. So that children of the world, if you will, daily store up God’s wrath, more and more each day. It’s a frightening thing, really. But it’s what we’re saved from.
Shane

======= John:

Deut 32:39
“See now that I myself am He!
” There is no god besides me.
I put to death and I bring to life,
I have wounded and I will heal,
and no one can deliver out of my hand.” NIV
This verses leaped out at me during the readings. There is so much theology in these simple words.
The first line in the Hebrew Construction means – ‘I am the one true God.’ There is no other.
Next come a series of statements that say “I” do these things – no one else – just Me.
“I put to death” – (judgment) those who reject Me.
“I bring to life” – (salvation) I grant eternal life to those who believe in Me.
“I have wounded and I will heal” – I will bring Israel to it’s knees, and I will bring a man to His knees so that he recognizes his sinful nature, and I will heal Israel and that sinful natured man when they believe in Me.
“and no one can deliver out of my hand” – “deliver” in this Hebrew tense means “to strip oneself”. So a better inerpretation is ‘no one can strip oneself from my hand’. What wonderful assurance to one who becomes a child of God by accepting and Receiving Christ as their Lord and Savior. Once you are in God’s hand – a co-heir to heaven – you cannot be taken out of His hand. God will not allow it.
God does these things – no one else. Man has no influence on the processes of judgment, salvation, or assurance – it is of God.
Being secure in God’s hand reminds me of a story rgearding a father taking his five year old son to a major college football game. 100,000+ plus fans in the stands reveed up (and some tanked up) who are ecstatic when the home team wins. There is a great rush to leave the stadium and it is kind of rowdy. The father takes the boys hand and says, “Do not let go of my hand”. As they are jostled and bumped on the way out, the boy feels his hand slipping, but the father’s hand tightens and grabs him all the harder.
The little boy may feel like his hand is slipping, but there is no way the loving father will let him go. Do we feel like we are slipping away at times from God? If this father tightens and holds his son’s hand out of love, how much more so the Father in heaven????
John

======= John:

Luke 12
Watchfulness
There are servants and their are servants. I am sure there are Pharisees and scribes in the crowd. Many today claim to be Christians, and they will be known by their fruits. It is not our place to judge, but the Master (God) will know.
We are to live our lives as if Christ will come back at any moment. As a Christian, overall, we should want to live that way. One who claims to be the servant of the Master, but is shown by his heart to not be a believer – will be punished.
Punishments will range depending on how much they were exposed to and knew of the Gospel. Seems to me this is an indication that there will be levels of punishment in hell – just like there are levels of rewards in heaven.
True today, and a severe warning to the Pharisees of Jesus’ time.
======================================================
Not Peace but Division
“I have come to bring fire on the earth, and how I wish it were already kindled!”
Most think this verse applies to the Holy Spirit and the purifying fire that John the Baptist refers to in Luke 3:16. And that Christ wishes the Holy Spirit was already at work, but would have to wait until his ressurection.
For Christ has to undergo His baptism? Wait – Christ already had a baptism. But I think it is the symbolism of baptism Christ is referring to here – that going under the water symbolizes death and being in the grave, and rising out of the water – a resurrection of the believer into a new life – an “eternal life”. A symbolization that mirrors christ’s crucifixion and resuurection.
Will everything be hunky-dory then – will there be peace on earth. No, there will be peace in the believer – a peace with God (as we are no longer at war with god, but a child of God), and a peace in the believer’s heart brought on by the Holy Spirit – that we are indeed Children of God.
But in the World – there will be division. Those that believe, and those that don’t. There is no guarantee whole families will be saved – as bloodlines do not pertain to salvation (John 1:13). But there will be acrimony and fighting over the issue of salvation. Once the Holy Spirit has arrived and believer’s are in the process of sanctification – they will share the gospel and their testimonies. Those that have a heart for God will dialogue, those that don’t will reject the believer – and that will even happen within families.
I know of this first-hand as my immediate family has rejected my sharing out of hand – 25 members of extended family (4 are believers), some dialogue and some have rejected discussions. The rejections have hurt – as even some strangers listen to me – but not these family members. I just pray that God will open more doors for sharing within my family, and that if not I – someone else may be the one to help my family see the light, the glory and the truth of our Lord.
John

Deuteronomy 31:1-32:27 + Luke 12:8-34 + Psalm 78:32-55 + Proverbs 12:21-23
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Old Testament – “Be strong and courageous!” is the encouragement & exhortation we hear 3 times in chapter 31 today.  It was said by Moses to the Israelites in verse 6, then by Moses to Joshua in verse 7, and finally by God to Joshua in verse 23.  Why do you think this was said 3 times?  Why would the Israelites and Joshua need to be reminded to be strong and courageous?  And if these words were needed back then, do you think perhaps we might need to hear them still today?  Do we need to be reminded oftentimes to be strong and courageous?  Today, this side of the Cross, where does our strength and courage truly come from?  Below is Joshua being commissioned by Moses in a Fresco in the Sistine Chapel by Luigi Signorelli, circa 1481:

Today in Deuteronomy chapter 31 verses 10-12 we read – “Then Moses commanded them: “At the end of every seven years, in the year for canceling debts, during the Feast of Tabernacles, when all Israel comes to appear before the LORD your God at the place he will choose, you shall read this law before them in their hearing. Assemble the people – men, women and children, and the aliens living in your towns-so they can listen and learn to fear the LORD your God and follow carefully all the words of this law.” Incredible verses! I like that Moses was setting up a way for God’s Word to continue to be taught & heard by God’s People every 7 years! I think this gets at a couple of things – 1. We humans are very forgetful. We may hear something once, but we need to hear it over and over again – particularly if it is God’s Word. 2. There is always a new generation of people coming up behind us. It is so important to educate this new generation about God’s Word. So – how do these verses above speak to you today? Are you hearing or reading God’s Word on a consistent basis? I know the answer is yes, for this year, as you’re in the One Year Bible! And I know that many of you have been reading the One Year Bible for many years now. However, I know not everyone will read the OYB every year. Here’s a suggestion – what about committing to reading the entire Bible – in the One Year Bible or Chronological or other format – once every 7 years? Thus, if you live to be 101, you’ll have read the Bible through at least 10 times (not counting those early years :). Just a thought to keep in the back of your mind – please consider reading the entire Bible at least once every 7 years. Though, I would encourage you to at least read some portion of the Word each and every day, in each and every year. Next question – are you somehow involved in teaching others the Word? Are you encouraging your friends or family members to read God’s Word? Maybe consider inviting your family & friends to participate in the One Year Bible next year? Are you somehow involved in teaching the younger generation coming up behind you to learn God’s Word? Maybe through your church you can get involved in Sunday school ministries or maybe there is a younger person in your community that you can mentor and disciple?

 

New Testament – Today in Luke 12:25-26 we read: “Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life? Since you cannot do this very little thing, why do you worry about the rest?” In regards to these verses I once heard someone say that worry is a form of “low-grade atheism.” Which I think is brilliant! When we worry, we are in a sense doubting God. Doubting that God has the situation in control, no matter how dire it may seem. Do you worry much these days? Do you see how worry is in a sense a form of “low-grade atheism”?

Bible.org’s commentary on Luke chapter 12’s readings today titled “Greed: The Affliction of the Affluent” is at this link and commentary titled “A Disciple’s Perspective on Possessions” is at this link.  Also, below is a brief commentary from Bible.org on the “Unpardonable Sin” from Luke 12:10, which can be found near the bottom of this link:

“At first appearance this text seems to be warning the disciple that he might lose his salvation by denying the Savior, by his hypocrisy. This is not the case, however. There are several reasons why this cannot be the case.

(1) Man’s salvation is not based upon his works, or his faithfulness, but on Christ’s shed blood and His faithfulness.

(2) The Scriptures consistently teach that man did not choose God but that He has chosen man, and that the one who is saved is eternally secure.

(3) In our text, there is a definite change from the second person (“you”) to the third person (“whoever,” “him,” “everyone”).

(4) The unpardonable sin, referred to in verse 10, is elsewhere clearly a sin which an unbeliever commits, which terminates any further opportunity to be saved.”

Psalms – Psalm 78 verses 41 & 42 stood out to me today – “Again and again they tested God’s patience and frustrated the Holy One of Israel. They forgot about his power and how he rescued them from their enemies.”  I am continually amazed at how similar we are today to the Israelites when they were wandering in the desert.  I am sure that we can on occasion test God’s patience and frustrate him.  I would also venture a pretty good guess that many of us forget about God’s power.  And forget how God rescued us from our enemies – and continues to rescue us daily.  How about you – do you ever forget about God’s power?  Do you ever forget about how he has rescued you?   What can we do to help ourselves remember?  How do we stop testing God’s patience and forgetting about Him? 

Proverbs – Today in Proverbs 12:21 we are taught: “No harm comes to the godly, but the wicked have their fill of trouble.” Do you believe this is true?  Or does sometimes the opposite seem true?  I think sometimes the opposite of this Proverb may seem true this side of heaven.  (though not always – I think wickedness reaps much trouble on this earth as well…) But I think clearly from an eternal perspective, this Proverb is absolute Truth.  Eternally, no harm comes to godly, but the wicked have their fill of trouble…   Let us not lose sight of our celestial horizons!

Worship Video:  Luke 12:25-26’s “Don’t worry” message reminded me of the JJ Heller terrific song “Your Hands:”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w-F6DGGF4Qs

Are you in God’s Hands? Click here for His Hands!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on two verses of Scripture today: “Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life? Since you cannot do this very little thing, why do you worry about the rest?” Luke 12:25-26 NIV

Prayer Point: Pray that you won’t worry. Pray that you will cast all of your cares upon the Lord, Jesus. Pray that you will recognize how worry is a form of “low-grade atheism.” Pray that you will never doubt God’s sovereignty in your life by worrying.

Comments from You:  What verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings?  Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 – Download a schedule of our Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 – I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!

BLOG READERS HISTORICAL COMMUNITY COMMENTS:
(our Group Bible Study is below! : )

======= Ramona:

A prayer for Mike and Everyone who Reads along with Us and Visitors also:
Father God, I thank you for the vision you have placed in Mike’s heart to bring people together from diverse backgrounds, agendas, political affiliations and socioeconomic spheres to focus on Your Word the only rock of Truth. This Blog is constructed in such a way that our opinions and denominational leanings and bents are overshadowed by your Words of Truth.
I thank you and Praise You for Your Faithfulness to all those who seek after You even when we stray from the path of each day’s readings. May every Word we read here go deep down within our hearts and bring forth such a great harvest of spiritual fruit that all we come in contact with can see Jesus, the God in us, the hope of glory, in us. May we reflect back to others Your grace, mercy and character. May those who we interact with us as we travel, while at work and in our home witness that “They have been with Jesus.”
In the glorious name of Your Son Jesus Christ I pray, amen.
Ramona

======= Ramona:

Deuteronomy 31:-32:27
Two things have struck me strongly in today’s reading: the commandment to read the Law at the end of every seventh year and the Song of Moses written in past tense.
If Israel was held accountable for correctly hearing and obeying God’s Law that was only heard every seven years, how much more accountable will we be to hearing correctly and obey the Word of God? I know that they only had Five Books to contend with; however, even with the five that is a lot of Word to take in and remember after hearing it once every seven years. Since God created us and formed us out of the dust of the earth, He knows what we are and are not capable of doing, achieving and accomplishing.
If God expected Israel to remember what they heard then we have the capacity to do what God has commanded. And if Israel was held accountable for what she heard, how much more are we? In this country (USA) you can get a bible almost on every street corner, at least in NYC. One can readily purchase expensive Moroccan leather bound bibles to paper bound book for at little as one dollar. Street evangelist hand out bibles freely or at lest scripture portions. The Gideon’s hand out pocketsize New Testaments on street corners near college campus, and even visiting a No-Tell Hotel to commit adultery with someone else’s husband or wife, one can find a bible in the nightstand drawer BEFORE you jump into bed Yet we have become a society of Biblical Illiterates who claim to be Christians! Thank you Mike for this Blog where we can come together to learn the Word of God and to put forth ideas and thoughts if we feel so inclined. It takes me no more than fifteen minutes to read the daily passages one time through without stopping to study a verse or ponder on a word or passage. We are without excuse.
The Song of Moses tells Israel what she will do, turn from God, as if she had already done it. The eternity of God can be seen so clearly in this song and if we look closely we will understand that the eternal God, who exists in a timeless sphere, is dealing with finite man living in a parenthetical universe controlled by time encased in eternity. God sees our beginning from our end because to God everything we do is in the “now.” So God can have the Lamb of God slain before the foundation of the world (Rev. 13:8) because He knew that His creation would sin and need to have a redeemer before He even created man!
The following verses may have nothing to do with the United States of America but when I read them I thought of the reports that told us how fat we have become as a people:
14 He fed them curds from the herd and milk from the flock, together with the fat of lambs and goats. He gave them choice rams and goats from Bashan, together with the choicest wheat. You drank the finest wine, made from the juice of grapes.
15 But Israel soon became fat and unruly; the people grew heavy, plump, and stuffed! Then they abandoned the God who had made them; they made light of the Rock of their salvation.
Are we in danger of forgetting the God who made us and are the sizes of our girth an indicator of our memory lose?
Luke 12:8-34
14 …”Friend, who made me a judge over you to decide such things as that?” 15 Then he said, “Beware! Don’t be greedy for what you don’t have. Real life is not measured by how much we own.”
This says to me that greed has nothing to do with wealth; it has to do with not being satisfied with what you have. Someone in abject poverty can by greedy and someone who owns a vast portfolio of stock and has large real estate holdings can be greedy.
And if Jesus has to point out the having “stuff” doesn’t indicate “real” life than a lot of us who look at how much “stuff” someone has compared to how much “stuff” we have are living “fake” lives. We have become a counterfeit of who we really are!
Psalm 78:32-55
Yesterday the first part of this Psalm mirrored the Old Testament reading in Deuteronomy and today it does the same thing and adds the passage in Luke to its mirror. Ain’t God Grand!
Proverbs 12:21-23
I’m going to go off on a tangent with the 21st verse, sorry. But I’ve just seen something I’ve never seen before,
21 No [actual] evil, misfortune, or calamity shall come upon the righteous, but the wicked shall be filled with evil, misfortune, and calamity (Amp).
If no evil can come upon the righteous, then when tragic events happen to folks we believe are “righteous” then what has happened to them is not real evil. We just think it’s evil because we are using human standards, not God’s. We are seeing life from man’s point of view when we should be learning how to see life from God’s vantage point. The NLT states it like this,
21 No real harm befalls the godly, but the wicked have their fill of trouble.
If there is a “real” harm then there must be a false harm. You don’t have to distinguish between the real and false if there wasn’t a difference between the two. There must be an appearance of evil and an actual evil. Jesus warned about judging from appearances only (John 7:24). What something appears to be and what is actually is are as different from day and night.
22 The LORD hates those who don’t keep their word, but he delights in those who do.
When we tell lies we can’t believe our own words because we know that what we have spoken is not true, so we don’t believe the words of others as a matter of course. But the greatest problem we encounter when we can’t believe our own words is that we won’t believe God’s Words either so we never believe with our whole heart, mind, body and soul and embrace the promises of God.
Grace and peace,
Ramona

======= Dan:

I unite with the person who wrote, to ask The Lord to bless Mike abundantly for following the call God gave him to start this plan on reading the Bible this year. It is a blessing all of us. Also ask for blessing for every person that is reading the word daily.
The commitment he has, is only something that God puts in someone’s heart, and Mike is fulfiling it. We read the Bible daily and we do our part, but he takes his time to do the blog, look for the comments and the pictures.
God bless everyone who reads the Bible, but over all God bless Mike…..
Dan

========= Mike:

Thank you for the 2 prayers above! Much appreciated. And much needed. : )  I’m glad you 2 – and everyone – are on this Bible in a Year journey with me this year!
Mike

======= Jan:

I have been pondering on this since reading the whole book of Deuteronomy & especially chapter 28-30 regarding blessing & cursing. I understand & realilze that God is love, but that love is balanced & in that love is justice & judgement. I get so tired of hearing the watered down Gospel, that God is love & loves everything. From what I understand & read from His Word/Laws…He does not love evil & wickedness/sin…can’t even be around it & there are evil & wicked people in this world that will never change & He knows that & yes, it is the desire of Him & all believers/Christians that none should perish…but some will do so.
I heard someone in our office just the other day say, “God loves everybody,” & it pricked my heart. Love does cover a multitude of sin as His Word says…but there is always consequences to sin…cursing if you may. Yes, I sin…but I try not to & I’m not wicked & evil. I fear God & the consequences of my sin & repent & turn from it when I do happen to stumble. I just don’t think it is as easy as every one thinks it is…there is a cost to following Christ & the Word says we are to count that cost & figure out if we are able to pay the cost of being His disciples/followers…it will cost us something…possibly our lives (we must die to ourselves daily & that is not easy either).
I also think the more you read His Word, the more you understand & fear Him. After all, the beginning of knowledge/wisdom is fear of the Lord. When & if I sin, it tears my heart out & I have no choice but to run to Him & repent. I love Him so I obey His commands as best I can; but because of the way people portray God’s love…a lot of people think they can get away with anything…they have no fear of God/our Lord. Guess they are still on the throne of their lives.
In regard to Mike’s comment about reading the Bible/God’s Word through at least every 7 years…you would truly be doing yourself a disservice in doing so. The more you read the Bible/His Word…the more intimate you become with Him…you are actually reading HIM…the Word made flesh. I have went 2 years without reading His Word daily (always reading it somehow throughout the day in some form)…but there is just something entirley different about eating/taking our “daily” Bread/Him/Word as our susentance…the only thing that gives us true life.
Jan

======= Ramona:

Jan,
Thank you for your post. I am one that also believes that outside of the Word, God cannot be fully known since He says in His Word, that that He and His Word are One (John 1). Funny thing is that when I was an unbeliever running around and doing crazy things, I would curse people out who I saw reading the Bible on public transportation. I did this for more than ten years. Question: was I really rejecting God or kicking against the “pricks?” (That was a rhetorical question).
It’s strange how we blame shift the effects of our sin onto God. God could have stopped us, If God is Love, He will forgive me and not punish me or cause me to suffer the consequences of our behavior. We have this thing that someone loves us if they don’t hold us accountable. If you love me, you will let me do what I want and clean up or ignore the mess I just made, when the Bible clearly states otherwise:
Proverbs 3:12
New Living Translation (NLT)
For the LORD corrects those he loves, just as a father corrects a child in whom he delights.
Proverbs 13:24
New Living Translation (NLT)
If you refuse to discipline your children, it proves you don’t love them; if you love your children, you will be prompt to discipline them.
The first time I read the mandate for Israel to assemble themselves every seven years, the year that all debts were canceled, to here the Law read, the first five books of Moses, I said WOW! Even though at that time, they were responsible for hearing, understanding and applying only five books, when we have sixty-six, every seven years, what greater standard will be held accountable, especially those in Western Civilization, for handling or mishandling the Word of God? Here in the United States we can be heading to the “No-Tell Motel” to commit adultery and have the Word of God in the drawer next to us on the night table.
Jan—thanks again for your comments.
Ramona

======= Roslyn:

Luke 12:10 – “And everyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but anyone who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven.”
Can anyone explain why Jesus the Son of Man can forgive and not the Holy Spirit when they are one and the same God?
Why does the bible keep referring to Jesus as the Son of Man instead of the Son of God or Son of the Holy Spirit? We all know He became man by being born, but He is God first, and He was conceived of the Holy spirit.
Roslyn

======= John:

Roslyn,
Two questions. The second question:
“Why does the bible keep referring to Jesus as the Son of Man instead of the Son of God or Son of the Holy Spirit?”
It is almost exclusively used by Jesus in the gospels.
“The term appears 82 times in the NT. It is always spoken by Jesus in the gospels. “One like a son of man” appears in Rev 1:13 and 14:14. Stephen sees the Son of Man standing in Acts 7:56. All other uses are by Jesus.”
Personally, I believe Jesus delighted in mankind from the beginning. Therefore, I think he delighted in the title. On a practical basis, using “Son of Man” was not only a title of humility, but provided less hindrance in his ministry. If he kept saying, He was the “Son of God” or the “Messiah” over and over. Then along with his works, people would be rushing to make him King, perhaps anger the temple priests so that they tried to kill him sooner, etc. these things would not be in line with his ministry or would threaten to end his ministry before the appointed hour.
John MacArthur lists four reasons why Jesus used the title “Son of Man” under the section:
Why Did Christ Call Himself “the Son of Man”?
Christ also equated “Son of Man” with deity by his acts as the “Son of Man” and links to Daniel (Ch.7). Also the human aspect was important to emphasize in relation to the kinsman-redeemer role of Christ. In O.T. only a blood relative could redeem the person from slavery, and had the obligation to be the “avenger of blood”. From the third paragraph on:
Christ has another link to mankind as the “last Adam”:
“It is very enlightening to realize that everything Adam lost in a moment of time was regained by the lord Jesus Christ during his amazing life’s work. The two great loses caused by Adam (spirit and a close relationship with God) was recovered and improved upon by the redemptive work of Jesus Christ.”
Comparisons to Adam and Christ :
To sum up: “Son of Man” is important for its link to humanity. “Son of Man” is important as the gospels unfold and the term is equated with deity. Lastly, “Son of Man” is important because in that human role Christ could be the “last Adam” and “Kinsman-Redeemer”. It is just as important a title for Christ as “Son of God”. BTW “Son of God” is used 80+ times in the N.T. (depending on version).
John

======= John:

Roslyn,
Your first question is perhaps easier to explain.
“Can anyone explain why Jesus the Son of Man can forgive and not the Holy Spirit when they are one and the same God?”
Luke 12:10
“And everyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but anyone who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven.”
I think the important thing here is the “Son of Man” reference. If one was not exposed to Christ’s divine power and presence, they might speak a word (logos) against Jesus. They may choose to disbelieve that this “Son of Man” is the “Son of God”. These people would be acting out of ignorance. Yet, if they eventually repent, they will be forgiven.
Paul in 1Tim1:13
“Even though I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man, I was shown mercy because I acted in ignorance and unbelief.” NIV
However Blaspheme (blasphemos) has a different context. Jesus did everything through the will of the Father and by the power of the Holy Spirit. To blaspheme (Gk. blasphemos) has the definition:
1) to speak reproachfully, rail at, revile, calumniate, blaspheme
2) to be evil spoken of, reviled, railed at.
not just a “word” or disbelief but an evil,scornful spewing of contempt – ergo: equating the Holy Spirit with Satan.
“So, in a true sense, what Jesus did, He did by the power of the Holy Spirit working through him. His virgin birth was conceived of the Spirit. His empowerment for ministry was at his baptism and was generated by the Holy Spirit. And so, Jesus operated on the principle of submission to the Father and the power of the Holy Spirit.”
So what is going on?
[“Now, it was one thing (notice in verse 32) to speak against the Son of Man, to say something against the humanness of Jesus or against his earthly presence or his earthly work. But to blaspheme the Holy Spirit was quite another thing.
Now, what it means is this: these people had received all the revelation they could receive. They had heard Jesus teach—and He said, “You should believe me for the words I speak.” They had seen the works that He had done, miracle after miracle after miracle… Many of them. So many of them that John says in John 20, “I suppose that if all the things that Jesus did were written, the books of all the world couldn’t hold them.” They had seen hundreds and perhaps thousands upon thousands of miracles. And Jesus said, “If you won’t believe me for the words, believe me for the very”—what? “Works’ sake.”
The point here is, here were a group of men, the leaders of Israel, who had had the epitome of revelation. They had it all. The fulfillment of all Messianic prophecy in the Old Testament, the corroboration by the very statements of Christ and the deeds of Christ that He was the Messiah, and their conclusion was that He was of Satan. Now, what happened? With all the revelation that God could possibly give them, they concluded the very opposite. And our Lord says, “It’s impossible for you to be saved.” Why? “Because when you had all the revelation, you concluded that I was satanic.” That’s hopeless. That’s hopeless.”]- ibid.
So after all this revelation the Pharisees not only rejected Jesus, but they concluded in an evil scornful manner that his power came from the “Adversary” of God.
I don’t think it is that the Holy Spirit CAN NOT forgive, but rather given the knowledge of the blasphemers it WILL NOT be forgiven.
[Note: There is much discussion over the application of this passage. I side with the “school of thought” that this is a statement made for a point in time. Jesus is physically on earth and working through the Holy Spirit. People see the miracles with their own eyes. That situation does not occur today, so I do not believe you can blaspheme the Holy Spirit today – as it is talking about in this passage.]
Well, maybe easier but not shorter 
John

======= Gina:

“Be strong and courageous!” I love that! It’s easy sometimes to get caught up in fear of the unknown. Forgetting WHO is in control. Great reminder…to be strong and courageous…with Christ, we can face any giant…If He is for us, who can be against us!
We had a beautiful service in church this Thursday. We shared comunion, participated in a foot washing and stripped the alter of its elements. We also lowered our cross to the floor and covered it with a black cloth, then we all left in complete silence. It prepared my heart, got me really focused on Jesus’ sacrifice…a bittersweet feeling…but knowing that what this weekend represents is the reason I can live forever with Jesus in Heaven. Hallelujah!
Gina

======= Jenny:

Deut. 31:6 “Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the LORD your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you”
I love this! this not only applies to our life, but our crossing into our promised land. As believers we should not fear death (our our moving out of our earthly tents) because He conquered death! By rising on the 3rd day, today, our celebration of God’s gift of grace! He went before us and He will be with us, He will never leave us, to live is Christ and to die is gain! We are never to be separated from Him, ever! Thats so incredible and I cling to that!
We must never trust in our strength, but His. HE is strong for us, and in our weakness, His strength is perfected! When ppl tell me, you have gone through so much, you are so strong, or you’re stronger then you realize….NO!!! Its not me, I am so frail and weak! Its Christ’s strength! I have no strength of my own to boast in! But we must step out in faith for HIs strength to be perfected.
Deut. 32:11″ As an eagle stirs up its nest, Hovers over its young, Spreading out its wings, taking them up, Carrying them on its wings”
wow, i love that metaphor!
Luke is very powerful! I just heard a radio sermon on some of this, awesome!
Jenny

======= Lisa:

Giving “our” everything doesn’t help people very much. We usually end up enabling them to serve other gods. We have to draw on God’s everything- He made all things good. Say that, 5 times, emphasizing each of the 5 words in each sentence. I have given “my” everything to a daughter-in-law who does not know how to enjoy the good things in life. Before she and my son were married, I prayed for her to have Grace, and they eloped – She just had a baby named Grace and after 3 weeks tried to hurt her and has post-partum. I should have listened to my mother-in-law who said that she was spoiled. It takes more people every year to help keep her going. Our son had the whole load on him until they moved close to us. I don’t know how much more he can take. everything in life that should be good turns into a disaster somehow. It is easy to say “raise your children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord” but there is so much heartbreak in this world that we put on ourselves. If we could just obey. We have nothing good to give. Only God can put that into us as we obey him. If we don’t know in the deep parts of us that God made all things good, even the good goes sour. Please pray for healing in this situation. We are growing weary. My husband and I have the baby right now.
Lisa

======= Elizabeth:

Lisa,
So sorry to hear about the trials within your family. It is sometimes quite difficult to discern when we are being merciful and when we are “enabling”–especially when you’ve got a situation where an innocent baby is being impacted by it all. I know Mike mentioned that book “Boundaries” awhile back–that’s a great book to think through.
I will pray for healing for you and your family. May the Lord bless you guys for your faithfulness to Him in caring for that little life. I imagine it’s not what you envisioned for yourselves, but I’m sure He’s blessing that baby through your care.
Elizabeth

======= Lisa:

Thank you, Elizabeth.
Lisa

======= Dee:

Wow, again, Ramona good read and commentary that you have given.
I look at Deuteronomy’s read today where Moses spoke to Joshua and the song of Moses, and see just how far Moses has come and grown up in the things of God..here is a child, that was snatched away (so to speak) from his real family, raised by an Egyptian in a palace, and had to lead his (real) family out of Egypt and had a lisp/stutter problem. At the end of his life, he is the one who is strong, firm, and couragous! He is speaking multitudes to this chosen generation and singing without shame or fear of speech! This just proves once again, that ones latter years are greater than the rest! His very best moments are now, and that’s ok, sometimes we don’t understand God’s timing or when we are best at use for Gods Kingdom and sometimes our shining moments are in our “wiser” mature years..thats a blessing
I enjoyed Luke today about greed! It humbled myself and made me understand the idea and concept of what it is to be in covet of “things/money/materials” and how not to be in greed. I had an incident a year or so ago with my sister about such as this..over my moms inheritance after her death. It is not any fun when you have money and possessions to deal with and family involved. Family will turn on you quicker than anything when you deal with money. I have prayed for forgiveness on my part and I am still in prayer with my sister and her family in the area of covetousness. Like Jesus said, it is not worth it to be in love of things you don’t have or jealous of anothers possessions. If He clothed the lilies of the field, which were adorned better than all of Solomans palace, won’t He clothe and take care of us, oh ye of little faith?? I love this teaching of our Lord and Saviour Jesus!!
In Psalms, it spoke of stubborness and leaving it behind and claiming the Promise Land like was spoken in Deuteronomy today..we can learn from this, we have to learn to leave the stubbornnesss and strong willed behavior behind and turn to God for His wisdom, patience, and timing. We also have to learn to take constructive criticism and guidance from others who have come and went where we are heading..I know I have had to learn this in the past several years and when you become a parent you really learn what your parents told you was mostly right, and when you try to teach and convey this to your kids, and they are a little stubborn at first, you see a mirror of yourself or who you used to be and it sometimes isn’t fun to go down that lane again!! Suddenly you get a taste of your own medicine as the old adage says!!
I enjoyed the insight from Ramona on the knowledge of things happening to good/evil people and when things hit the “righteous” then they aren’t necessarily considered evil..I can believe that, I think of day to day things, such as staying home from work(child sick, your sick, sudden emergency) flat tire, stuck in traffic, line at grocery store, and list goes on and on. Stories such as these were not uncommon during the 9/11 events and it saved many, many lives because of the (things, appearance of bad/misfortune) that happened in each of those peoples lives and I believe this is the kind of thing that Ramona is talking about. Things happen to good people but in a lot of ways it is the Spirit who is warning you and God already sees the steps ahead of you for He was here from the Foundation of the Earth so He knows the end means and is preventing you from many a “snare” of the enemy , so to speak..
We need to heed the warnings of our Father, and allow Him to protect us and He guards our steps.
Great verse in todays readings, Deuteronomy 32:10 He kept him(Israel,us,today) as the pupil of His eye.
Dee

======= Terriann:

First let me say to Mike, Ramona and Dee, you are an answer to prayer. For several years I’ve been looking for someone who wanted to share what they got from their daily reading and wow you guys are great! Just over a year ago the Lord told me to learn to type. It hasn’t been easy for this 50+ gal to train her slow fingers but I must say it has been worth it!
Ramona’s thoughts on Pr.12:21 made me think of the hymn ” It is well with my soul”. It was written by a man in a time of great personal tragedy. I am moved every time I hear it.
My favorite verses today are Deut.31:6&8, For the LORD your God goes with you, He will never leave you nor forsake you. This promise was given to the people as a whole and to Joshua personally. It is an important promise to remember when difficult or even tragic times come our way.
Ps.78 is such a great picture of the grace, mercy and faithfulness of God compared to the stubbornness and rebellion of man. It left me wondering, “Why do You put up with us, O Lord?”
Terriann

======= Bernadette:

by worrying, we are doubting God. It does not give sense to our life it brings us to distractions. Stop worrying!it would not add a single hour to our life. Invite Jesus to be the driver of our life and we will find out He’s true to His promises.
Bernadette

======= Billy:

Mike, your comments on “worrying” being a “low-grade” form of atheism really hit home because I am a chronic worry-wart !! Definitely something I need to work on. Thanks for making me think !!
Billy

======= Antonietta:

I enjoyed today reading-Worry cant change things. but it attributes to high blood pressure and heart ailments. I got an eye opener when I read the post by mike that said”worrying” being a “low-grade” form of atheism” Wow I had to stop for a minute I am a worrier. things that we spend so much time worrying about usually don’t even happen.
Antonietta

======= Bob:

Proverbs 12:22 I think a good reflection on how this lying has grave consequences is found in Acts 5:1-11. This is where Ananias and Sapphira test the concept of possible degrees of honesty. I heard how this has become an interesting moral problem today in a Christian School that has said it is ok to steal….if the circumstances (like starvation) dictate a favorable outcome….??? This sounds like a slippery slope to me. From what God says in Acts, it doesn’t look like we should take liberty with honesty and integrity in His Kingdom. What do you think, GOOGLE: “Is it ok to steal if you are hungry?”
Bob

======= Russ:

I can see the corrulation between the jews in the old testament and most of America today. It does appear our nation has become fat and turned its back on God’s teaching.
Russ

======= Jill:

I never associated fat with greedy . But yeah if we are getting fat due to our negligence toward God then that makes sense! Irs a shame it’s come to that. I also consider it lack of discipline.
As far as doubting what God can do as “low-grade atheism” no I don’t agree with that. We have a lot of anxiety and stress because of our fallen world. But we also have cross to lay our burdens down. God is reminding us to leave them there. We aren’t walking away from God by worrying but it’s a way of him drawing us closer to Him. We need him! Pure and simple. We can’t drift away from God because he’s always there. We just need our branches to bear fruit. One other thing, God is fighting our battles. And God never loses a battle if you decide to take him on.
Jill

======= Joyce:

Mike and everyone,
Mike, your suggestion of reading the whole Bible once every 7 years, thus, if we live to be 101, we’ll have read the Bible through at least 10 times.
That will be such a blessing!
And thank you Mike for the reminder: I have not done enough to remind my family and friends to read God’s Word. Just today, I started praying about opportunities to teach God’s Word, or disciple/mentor someone younger.
Indeed, “how similar we are today to the Israelites when they were wandering in the desert.” How we need constant reminders in God’s Word.
Mike you asked:
“What can we do to help ourselves remember?
How do we stop testing God’s patience and forgetting about Him?”
I think we need to be reading, meditating on God’s Word daily,
be in fellowship with other believers regularly,
pray often,
listen, yield to, and be obedient to Him and His Words.
May God help us to learn to be more faithful to Him!
Many verses stand out to me today, including these:
Luke 12:33,34 (Amplified Bible)
33 Sell what you possess and give donations to the poor; provide yourselves with purses and handbags that do not grow old, an unfailing and inexhaustible treasure in the heavens, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys.
34 For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.
God bless!
Joyce

======= Ramona:

Deuteronomy 31:1-32:27
So Moses is giving this speech when he is 120 years old. That means God called him to active service when he was about to reach 80 years of age. Many people in their late thirties and early forties feel like failures because they haven’t accomplished what they wanted to do. Pictures of a wasted life filter through their minds, so they just hang out on the earth breathing until their bodies die, after having already died waiting in their despair. Moses was going up and down mountains, walking through deserts over rivers and through the woods crossing dales, and I don’t think he had an over weight problem. Just thinking about Moses, the age of his call, the things he did, the responsibility he shouldered, should give every Senior Citizen not only a new lease on life, but a glimpse of what is possible if one yields themselves to the will of God. Wow, wow, wow!!
Even when one is given a sad song to sing, given a glimpse into future behavior, that is not only not nice, but reprehensible; redemptive hope can be seen in the future, in the distance ahead, past the misery, the Redeemer waits for the Fullness of Time to make Himself known in your life.
Grace and peace,
Ramona

======= John:

Deut 31:23
“The LORD gave this command to Joshua son of Nun: “Be strong and courageous, for you will bring the Israelites into the land I promised them on oath, and I myself will be with you.” NIV
Be strong and of good courage: It is remarkable how often this exhortation is directed towards Joshua. He hears it seven different times (Deuteronomy 31:6, 7, and 23; Joshua 1:6, 7, 9, and 18).
i. This exposes Joshua’s weakness; there was a need for such a command, because even a great leader like Joshua needed such encouragement.
ii. Most of us, God forgive us, are too big for God to use; we are too full of our own schemes and our own ways of doing things. Joshua needed to take strength and courage in the Lord, and was small enough to be big in God.
iii. Wonderfully, the last time this phrase is used in connection with Joshua, he is encouraging others to be strong and of good courage (Joshua 10:25). He could encourage others with the encouragement the Lord, through others, had given him.
John

======= John:

Luke 12
Do Not Worry
Our Lord (1) warns the rich among us to guard against greed, (excessive materialism). In view of the many needy among us we should become rich toward God and rich in good works.
Our Lord (2) warns the poor among us to guard against anxiety, which will in time weaken our faith in our heavenly Father to supply all our daily needs.
Our Lord (3) encourages all of us, regardless of our position in this life, to seek first the kingdom of God, and then God will gladly provide all that is necessary to live out our lives on this earth until he calls us home.
Our Lord (4) challenges all of us to examine our hearts to find out where our treasure is, for where our treasure is there is our heart also.
Ron Ritchie
John

Deuteronomy 29:1-30:20 + Luke 11:37-12:7 + Psalm 78:1-31 + Proverbs 12:19-20
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Old Testament – Deuteronomy chapter 29 verse 29 is intriguing today – “There are secret things that belong to the LORD our God, but the revealed things belong to us and our descendants forever, so that we may obey these words of the law.”  I think this is good for us to remember – there are secrets of God that we will not know this side of heaven.  And I don’t think we need to worry or speculate on what these secret things might be, because “the revealed things belong to us.”  God has revealed himself to us in the Bible!  His very Word.  He has revealed himself in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.  And he reveals himself in the life of the body of Christ today – the church.  We have everything we need to know to love & follow God.  And I think God’s secrets can remain secret to us this side of heaven – I don’t know about you, but I like a little mystery in God!  🙂

New Testament – Wow… Jesus goes after the Pharisees in Luke chapter 11 today…  Verses 39 through 41 are powerful: “Then the Lord said to him, “You Pharisees are so careful to clean the outside of the cup and the dish, but inside you are still filthy–full of greed and wickedness! Fools! Didn’t God make the inside as well as the outside? So give to the needy what you greedily possess, and you will be clean all over.”  I think these verses are important for us to meditate upon as well today.  Are we clean inside?  Or are we putting on a show and just cleaning up our external appearances for others?  As we saw in Jesus’ teachings in the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew – God is very interested in the condition of our hearts.  Our insides.  Are our insides clean?  Bob Deffinbaugh with Bible.org’s great commentary on our Luke chapter 11 readings today titled “Fundamentalists in Formaldehyde” is at this link.

Jesus’ teachings in Luke chapter 12 verses 2 through 3 are also important for us to reflect upon in our lives today – “The time is coming when everything will be revealed; all that is secret will be made public. Whatever you have said in the dark will be heard in the light, and what you have whispered behind closed doors will be shouted from the housetops for all to hear!”  I once heard a pastor say during a sermon – “nobody sins in a vacuum.  Meaning, nobody’s sin does not affect others.  When we sin – even when we are “alone” – it affects our community in ways we do not fully realize.”   I think this is so true.  When we sin – even what we have done or said in the “dark” – we hurt not only ourselves, but others.  And God the Father, Son & Holy Spirit, who is pure Light, have heard and know what we do in the dark.  We cannot hide it from them.  Better to confess it to God, repent, and be cleansed by the Light.  Then, go, and sin no more.  Plus – it’s a darn scary thought to think that what we do in the dark might be shouted from the housetops for all to hear!  🙂  Live your life such that no matter what you do or what you say, you wouldn’t be embarrassed to read about it in tomorrow’s papers… 

Bible.org’s commentary on Luke chapter 12 readings today titled “The Hazard of Hypocrisy for Heralds of the Gospel” is at this link.

Psalms – Psalm 78 verse 4 is a wonderful reminder that we have an important opportunity to disciple and teach others in the generation coming up behind us – “We will not hide these truths from our children but will tell the next generation about the glorious deeds of the LORD. We will tell of his power and the mighty miracles he did.”  Are you discipling or teaching someone about God’s truth, deeds, and love?  How are you helping the next generation learn about God the Father, Jesus the Son, and the Holy Spirit? 

Proverbs – Proverbs chapter 12 verse 19 is a great testament to the strength of the Bible – now some 3,400 years old since the writings of Moses!  “Truth stands the test of time; lies are soon exposed.”  Do you believe the Bible is Truth?

Worship Video:  Today’s readings reminds me of Micah Tyler’s song (with a fun/silly video here 🙂 “Praise the Lord!”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7DXGozXslIg

Is the devil trying to get you? Click here and Praise the Lord!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on two verses of Scripture today: “”I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more. But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear him who, after the killing of the body, has power to throw you into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him.” Luke 12:4-5 NIV

Prayer Point: Pray that you will not be afraid of mere mortal men. Pray that you will only fear the Lord. Pray that you will learn that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of all wisdom and righteousness.

Comments from You:  What verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings?  Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 – Download a schedule of our Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

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BLOG READERS HISTORICAL COMMUNITY COMMENTS:
(our Group Bible Study is below! : )

======= Ramona:

WARNING: These comments are based on the writer’s experience and do not come from theological or philosophical readings.
*******************************
Mike I hope you don’t mind or become offended but I want to expand on your comments about Deut 29:29 and come back tonight and do the rest of the readings.
“Revelation is not revelation until it is revelation to you.” A.R. Bernard
Deut 29:29, “There are secret things that belong to the LORD our God, but the revealed things belong to us and our descendants forever, so that we may obey these words of the law” is the last piece of bread that sandwiches everything spoken about after verses two through four, “2 Moses summoned all the Israelites and said to them, “You have seen with your own eyes everything the LORD did in Egypt to Pharaoh and all his servants and his whole country—3 all the great tests of strength, the miraculous signs, and the amazing wonders. 4 But to this day the LORD has not given you minds that understand, nor eyes that see, nor ears that hear!
Scripture is progressive in the laying out of this text, this book we know as the Bible, as well as progressive in our personal understanding of this book. What was “revealed” to me in the heart of my understanding when I first began reading through this book in 1984/85 has increased in volume and intensity as I read through today (Note: I do a second bible-reading program as well as book studies). In my experience my own personal understanding, the understanding that happens as a passage that I have read one-hundred times before explodes in my spirit and becomes alive to me, takes on new meaning and becomes easier to follow then when I just understood it in my head.
Ignorance of the Law is not excuse for not following the law, but when we know that Law, really really, know that Law, we are without excuse. I believe that 29th verse has a duality, there is a component as a community and there is a personal responsibility when one gains understanding of a Law, Precept, or Command that God has given us and it becomes part of our very being. Before that understanding explodes in our spirit, we follow the Law by faith, but when it becomes alive to us we begin following because we know. We may not even be able to explain why we know to others at first but following that law moves from being a burden to becoming a joy.
Revelation brings understanding and that is why I belive the writer of Proverbs admonishes over and over again the importance of the reader’s pursuit of Widsom and Understanding.
Proverbs 4:
5 Get wisdom, get understanding;do not forget my words or swerve from them.
6 Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will watch over you.
7 Wisdom is supreme; therefore get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.
Grace and peace,
Ramona

======== Mike:

Thanks Ramona! Great expansion on my comments!
Mike

======= Ramona:

Deuteronomy 29:1-30:20
Deut. 30: 1 “Suppose all these things happen to you–the blessings and the curses I have listed–and you meditate on them as you are living among the nations to which the LORD your God has exiled you. 2 If at that time you return to the LORD your God, and you and your children begin wholeheartedly to obey all the commands I have given you today, 3 then the LORD your God will restore your fortunes.
This is a great Word for backsliders. Moses has just rehearsed within the people’s hearing the blessings for those who are obedient to God’s Law as well as the curses on those who are not (chapter 28). He tried to make the consequences “real” to them by referring back to their time of delivererence from Egypt and how God kept and protected them in the wilderness. Then in the last half of the thirtieth chapter God lays Israel’s destiny, lays our destiny squarely on us it is our choice how we live. One of the many Proverbs dealing with those choices states,
21 Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and they who indulge in it shall eat the fruit of it [for death or life]. (Proverbs 18)
We are the sum total of all the choices we have made in our life. Where we are today is the result of our choices. If we don’t like the life we are living now we have to make new choices. God gives us the choices, death or life, and then even tells us which one to choose to live.
19″Today I have given you the choice between life and death, between blessings and curses. I call on heaven and earth to witness the choice you make. Oh, that you would choose life, that you and your descendants might live! 20 Choose to love the LORD your God and to obey him and commit yourself to him, for he is your life. Then you will live long in the land the LORD swore to give your ancestors Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.”
Luke 11:37-12:7
I have to admit it I just love reading verses 37 through 54 and wish I was a little fly on the wall when Jesus was telling it like it t’is to his host and the other guests. His Words were harsh yet He spoke them in Love. He loved them so much He was willing to tell them the truth about themselves despite what they thought or how bad their feelings were hurt. All truth is confrontational. Even when one of the invited guests came to Him and told Him that He had just insulted them, He didn’t apologize or use flowery words, He continued speaking the Truth is love. Love is the desire to benefit others at the expense of self. For God so loved the world that He gave …(John 3:16)
Yesterday’s Proverb (Proverbs 12:18) is brought back to my remembrance when I read Jesus’ rebuke of these religious leaders. Remembering that they thought they were righteous but they were in sin. Today too, we can be just as stubborn and just as blind as the religious leaders who shared a meal with Jesus.
Lord, open my eyes to see the self-righteousness within me that keeps me chained to my sin.
Psalm 78:1-31
1 O my people, listen to my teaching.
Open your ears to what I am saying,
2 for I will speak to you in a parable. I will teach you hidden lessons from our past—
Amazing how this Psalm fits right into today’s reading in Deuteronomy. God is alive and well and sitting on the throne. All things word together for good no matter where in the scriptures we turn to. Awesome, just awesome!
Proverbs 12:19-20
19 Truth stands the test of time; lies are soon exposed.
This statement I need to get down into the deepest part of my being. I can get so upset when I’m lied to or when a lie that is damaging to others is accepting and others “run” with it as truth. The lie will come to the light. This verse also goes hand-in-hand with Jesus’ Words in Luke 12,
2 The time is coming when everything will be revealed; all that is secret will be made public. 3 Whatever you have said in the dark will be heard in the light, and what you have whispered behind closed doors will be shouted from the housetops for all to hear!
The best commentary on scripture is scripture.
Grace and Peace,
Ramona

======= Amy:

Deuteronomy is Relevant
I’m a couple days behing, but had some thoughts in general…
I am continually struck about the Bible’s relevance in my life. I keep noticing the word REMEMBER. Moses is paused with the Israelites on the edge of them entering the Promised land, and before I had thought- why do we have to have this big review, I already know what was said, and we are just repeating- making for less exciting reading.
However, now I am getting the idea that Moses is REMINDING the people how far they have come, what is in their past… a good thing to do is to review your past, when you are about to move on, to consider where things are going. How did you get where you are? How did God move in your past? Now? Could this give you some insight to the future?
Somehow, I have got into some major rehashing of my life, as I enter this transitional time, and I have been reminded to REMEMBER.
Amy

======= Nicole:

Deuteronomy 30:2-4 really stuck out to me. Even after people turn away from God, he still loves us and calls us back. What amazing love!
Nicole

======= Jan:

i think it’s amazing how although God was full of wrath that the Israelites tested Him, while sinning against Him, He still delivered them. This is demonstration of His magnitude of love.
Jan

======= Duane:

The Luke commentary at bible.org is really good! Built for the average person to get inside the texts.
A good ending to the chapter 11 commentary:
“Our Lord wants these Pharisees and experts in the law to look at their hearts, not in the light of their own teachings, but in the light of the Scriptures, and in the searchlight of the Holy Spirit. It is the Spirit of God, working through the Word of God, which exposes our inward sins. May each of us go to the Scriptures, asking God as David did in Psalm 119 to reveal His Word to us, and also to reveal our sin. May each of us seek God from the heart to have a pure heart, by His grace, and for His glory.”
AMEN!
Duane

======= Ramona:

Duane:
Thank you for that prayer and I receive it.
Ramona

======= Shane:

We must give God the credit here. Deutero 30:6 says that God circumcizes hearts, and THEN the people love with their heart and soul. The problem with the Jews is that they had physical circumcision and not spiritual. The remedy is only an act of God. Once the hard heart is circumcized, man may love his God
Shane

======= Anka:

“But if your heart turns away and you are not obedient, and if you are drawn away to bow down to other gods and worship them”
I think maybe God wants our hearts 1st…then obedience will follow.Maybe,just maybe,the Pharisees had started by studying,trying to understand the Law…but missed loving God in the process.While growing up,my dad was my hero,I didn’t obey him out of fear..I wanted his approval..God wants us to love his laws(“I will write my law in their hearts).Many times in the old testament I came across”they hardened their hearts”…we’ve all heard about the romeo and juliet story…people who do crazy things out of love…so why don’t we crazily obey God out of love:))
Anka

======= Shane:

I think Anka has a good point. God does want our hearts first. That’s why He gives us new ones. Obedience of course follows, because we become the children of God, for whom the Lord has prepared good works, beforehand, for us to do. (Eph. 2:10).
Once newly created, we love the Lord, and stay connected to the vine. (Jn 15).
The pharisees, as you rightly note, fell into the trap of studying for the sake of knowledge of the Law, and not of knowledge of God.
Shane

======= Ramona:

Yes, Anka—It stands to reason since Jesus said “…out of the abundance of the mouth the heart speaks.” (Luke 6:45) We speak in many ways, by our words, actions and by our spirits. If our heart is the “seat” of determinate action then once our heart is changed and our minds are renewed by the Word and with the Word, our lifestyle will reflect Jesus, the Word of God. So is there really something called a “slip of the tongue?” Hmmm.
Ramona

======= Emily:

Sadly, the slips are real. Even in the REAL world marriages are, sadly, broken. We break faith with our dearest one with whom we commit to become ONE FLESH.
Because we let our fickle nature, sinfulful and selfish self prevail… we break our commitments.
Spiritually, it is possible to break our commitment with the Lord. Just look around to see how many lapsed Christians we have who, sadly, will never return to God and even cause many others to break lose.
Emily

======= Sandy:

I agree that there must be secrets God is reserving to reveal to us only when we meet Him face-to-face. Yet it also is an awesome, humbling, privileged truth that we are able to “read God’s mind.” —Wasn’t the greatest mystery, or secret, of the ages the wisdom of God, which is Christ crucified? ( 1Cor.2:2). And we have entered into the “foolishness” of this wisdom, that God chooses us, the foolish and weak of the world, to have faith and to have His Spirit indwell us. So with His Spirit, we are able to “search all things, even the depths of God. For who among men knows the thoughts of a man except the spirit of the man which is in him? Even so the thoughts of God no one knows except the Spirit of God. Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, so that we may know the things freely given to us by God…
FOR WHO HAS KNOWN THE MIND OF THE LORD, THAT HE WILL INSTRUCT HIM? But we have the MIND of Christ.” 1Cor.2:12-16. Wow! His grace is beyond understanding!
Sandy

======= Oriane:

Deuteronomy readings stood out to me today as it talked about obeying and following God and not turning away from the Lord. This might not have much to do with today’s readings but I just wanted to ask if any of you have received the “Believers water baptism”. I have been a Christian for about 18 months. The Pastor at my church called for water baptism for the 1st April. I think there was a certain expectation that I would be coming forward to receive it. One of the guys at church talked about “obedience is better than sacrifice”. They prayed for me in their prayer group meeting.I met with the Pastor and told him that I couldn’t go through with it. It didn’t feel like it was the right timing for me. I’ve been reading scriptures relating to baptism ever since and I know that I want to obey God but I seem to have a blockage. Like something is preventing me from going through with it. Just wanted to hear some of your stories. Please feel free to email me directly.
Oriane

======= Jenny:

Just got to the readings..some verses stood out for me. The other day my dad and I were discussing the dead sea, we swam in it wen we went to Israel…or floated in it rather! the salt content is so high and the “water” is so dense its impossible to sink. Also, its very dangerous to ingest it, and if you get it in your lungs its fatal. so we know there are toxic substances in it…I asked my dad about it and I didnt know this!!: the dead sea is believed to be where Sodom/Gomorrah once were! We know the Lord perished it with fire and brimstone and that Lot’s wife turned to salt. Then I came upon this verse in Deut 29, Vs.23 ‘The whole land is brimstone, salt, and burning; it is not sown, nor does it bear, nor does any grass grow there, like the overthrow of Sodom and Gomorrah, Admah, and Zeboiim, which the LORD overthrew in His anger and His wrath.’
Very interesting!!
Deut 30:19-20 stood out: “I call heaven and earth as witnesses today against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing; therefore choose life, that both you and your descendants may live; that you may love the LORD your God, that you may obey His voice, and that you may cling to Him, for He is your life…”
I love that, “that you may cling to Him!” “He is your life”!!
Also, thats a song we sing at church sometimes, ‘the choice is set before you now, living or dying, blessing or cursing. Choose life, that you might live…the life that He gives, He gives you forever..choose life, the way that is true, from the One who chose you, your Father in heaven, choose life’.
I love Jesus’ perfection so much, He is gentle and compassionate, yet angry with sin and wont tolerate it! For the most part, the world is so tolerate of sin! If we arent, we’re just called narrow-minded and intolerant. My former pastor used to say that if Jesus were to say these things today, the ppl would try to hush HIm and say, “Now Jesus, that isnt very Christ-like!” haha. We have to know He is the same yesterday, today, and forever!
I love Luke 12:5 “But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear Him who, after He has killed, has power to cast into hell; yes, I say to you, fear Him!”
AMEN!!!!
The BIble is for sure truth…pretty safe to say that it has withstood the passage of time!  : )
Jenny

======= Tabitha:

Luke 11;39-41. What I would like to see in all churchs. People that are the same outside of the church building as they are inside. If most chuchers are acting in two different plays. How can people see the real Jesus inside of us? Aren’t we to Be examples of the truth, the way and the life.
Tabitha

======= Jim:

“Nobody sins in a vacuum.”
Or, there’s no such thing as a victimless crime! The two most popular examples of “victimless” crimes are suicide and prostitution. But, studies show that within days of a publicized suicide, 58 people of similar age and appearance take the clue and end their own lives (that wouldn’t otherwise). Most, however, are not counted as suicides (although statistically evident) as most just crash their cars and planes (yes, even commercial ones). Again, I was six when I first saw a prostitute beaten by her pimp on the streets of Philly and knew there was nothing victimless about that profession (and, don’t get me started on how many die bringing illegal drugs into the states). Clearly, no one sins in a vacuum. And, if you’re not part of God’s solution, you’re part of God’s problem.
Jim

======= George:

Luke 12:2-3…
Live today in such a way, that when tomorrow comes, you’ll be glad you lived the way you did today!
Blessings…
George

======= Luch:

Psalm 78:9 “The warriors of Ephraim, though armed with bows, turned their backs and fled on the day of battle.” This verse seems to teach that we can be well equipped with all kinds of resources and bible studies and other good ‘stuff’ but when ‘showtime’ comes or when ‘the battle is on’ unless we put our ‘bows’ to work, it’s all in vain. Verse 10 gives a clue as to why the ‘warriors of Ephraim’ were useless when battle time came–“they did not keep God’s covenant and refused to live by his instructions, they forgot what he had done, the great wonders he had shown them.”
Oh LORD, please keep me from being useless in battle. Help me to live with a sense of wonder at all You have done, and may gratitude for who you are and what you have done, propel me to fight the good fight. Amen
Luch

======= Pauline:

sooo blessed as this morn i posted about the outside of the cup being clean while the inside remains filthy. also heard joseph prince say that Jesus words to the woman caught in adultery – who condemns u, go and sin no more but to each other we say go and sin no more and i will not condemn u
Pauline

======= Joyce:

Hello Mike and everyone,
I appreciate these verses:
Deuteronomy 30:11-14, 20 (NLT)
11 “This command I am giving you today is not too difficult for you, and it is not beyond your reach.
12 It is not kept in heaven, so distant that you must ask, ‘Who will go up to heaven and bring it down so we can hear it and obey?’ 13 It is not kept beyond the sea, so far away that you must ask,‘Who will cross the sea to bring it to us so we can hear it and obey?’
14 No, the message is very close at hand; it is on your lips and in your heart so that you can obey it.
20 You can make this choice by loving the Lord your God, obeying him, and committing yourself firmly to him. This is the key to your life. And if you love and obey the Lord, you will live long in the land the Lord swore to give your ancestors Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.”
These verses tell me our God has a good sense of humor,
but also, His command here is solemn, and has implications for generations to come.
May we take them to heart!
Sincerely,
Joyce

======= Ginny:

“Whatever you have said in the dark will be heard in the light, and what you have whispered behind closed doors will be shouted from the housetops for all to hear!” I think what Jesus means here also is that we should not be afraid to Witness to God. That what we proclaim privately, we should not be afraid to proclaim publicly to all. That just like in Psalm 78: 4-6, where we are instructed to teach our children, so they can teach their children. Some of us have gotten out of the practice of teaching children about God. We see the drastic results today.
Ginny

======= Robert:

TIME WARP
Deuteronomy 30:1-10
The reading in Deuteronomy reminded me of my trips to Israel and seeing a nation come unto its own once again. In verses 1-4 we see how God has dispersed the Jews to all part of the world. This has been a historical cycle from Egypt, Babylon, Rome and recently in 1948 brought them back to the land of their forefathers. Verse 5 is a good account of the wonderful things the Israelis have done to the land to produce “milk and honey”, and add to world knowledge of science, literature, technology, etc. Verse 6 is interesting because in speaking with a number of people there, I found their relationship with God had quite a spectrum of beliefs; not just Orthodox Jew. Simply speaking the country has to adopt the principle of the Good Samaritan but that is extremely difficult with the Palestinian situation right now. (Circumcised hearts). Verse 8 speaks of enemies that at this point surround Israel and it seems they are all finding it very difficult standing up against Israel. Verse 9 just says again how they will prosper and as a tourist, I could see the wonderful interest from people all over the world coming there to see the holy land. Verse 10 is really the goal and as the mind set of the country slowly changes, I think history will repeat itself maybe for the last time.
Robert

======= Dee:

Deut: blessings vs curses! I love praying and speaking blessings! Head and not the tail. Never pulling up the rear!
Luke: if u aren’t working for Jesus you are working against. I definitely don’t want to work against! That would be not good! True statement: time flies! I used to say time flies and it is running straight across the face. Lol
Psalm: meditate on your works day and night! So important. I love the Lord! I love His atmosphere! Yes!! Want to keep it conducive unto the Lord daily!
Proverbs: I want to bring healing always. I don’t want to cut or hurt others. Not my nature.
Dee

======== Ramona:

Deuteronomy 29:1-30:20
I am overwhelmed with joy upon reading today’s Old Testament passage. The God we serve, the God who has adopted every believer into His family so we can cry out, Abba, Father—Daddy, is a gracious, merciful and loving God. He loves us so much that He didn’t give us a contract, which if violated by any of the parties becomes null and void, but He gave us a covenant.
A Covenant if violated, even by both parties, still stands ready to be put back in force when either party comes to its senses. Yet God never, never walks away from His Word so even when we are “faithless,” He remains “faithful” to His Word (2 Timothy 2:13).
Therefore keep the words of this covenant and do them, that you may deal wisely and prosper in all that you do. All of you stand today before the Lord your God–your heads, your tribes, your elders, and your officers, even all the men of Israel, Your little ones, your wives, and the stranger and sojourner in your camp, from the hewer of your wood to the drawer of your water– That you may enter into the covenant of the Lord your God, and into His oath which He makes with you today, That He may establish you this day as a people for Himself, and that He may be to you a God as He said to you and as He swore to your fathers, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. It is not with you only that I make this sworn covenant But with future Israelites who do not stand here with us today before the Lord our God, as well as with those who are here with us this day. (Deuteronomy 29:9-15 AMP)
God is a God of generations. If I fail to keep my end up, the covenant is not voided out but the next generation, my off-spring, if they decide to accept what God has for them, are not restrained, prohibited nor hampered by may failures. God is soooooo Awesome and Loving!!
Grace and peace,
Ramona

======= John:

Deut 29:22
“Your children who follow you in later generations and foreigners who come from distant lands will see the calamities that have fallen on the land and the diseases with which the LORD has afflicted it.” NIV
In the 1800’s several people wrote about this land. The most notable is Mark Twain:
Mark Twain in the Land of Israel in 1867
Mark Twain
“The Innocents Abroad or the New Pilgrim’s Progress”
Volume II, p.216-359 (harper and brothers 1922)
“We traversed some miles of desolate country whose soil is rich enough but is given wholly to weeds–a silent, mournful expanse… A desolation is here that not even imagination can grace with the pomp of life and action. We reached Tabor safely… We never saw a human being on the whole route. We pressed on toward the goal of our crusade, renowned Jerusalem. The further we went the hotter the sun got and the more rocky and bare, repulsive and dreary the landscape became… There was hardly a tree or a shrub anywhere. Even the olive and the cactus, those fast friends of a worthless soil, had almost deserted the country. No landscape exists that is more tiresome to the eye than that which bounds the approaches to Jerusalem… Jerusalem is mournful, dreary, and lifeless. I would not desire to live here. It is a hopeless, dreary, heartbroken Land… Israel sits in sackcloth and ashes. Over it broods the spell of a curse that has withered its fields and fettered its energies… Israel is desolate and unlovely. And why should it be otherwise? Can the Curse of the Deity beautify a land? Israel is no more of this work-day world.”
Above was excerpted over many pages.
John

======= John:

Deut 30
Notice here the unconditional promise. There are no “if…then” only “when…then”. It will happen and then I will….
Seven Promises:
1) vs.1 there will be a dispersal.
2)vs. 2 a future repentance of Israel in the dispersion.
3) vs. 3 is odd for the original Hebrew Text indicates the Lord will “return”. Indicating the Lord will return into their lives, and gather them from all the nations.
4)vs. 4-5 Israel is to be restored to the Land.
5)vs.6 There will be a national conversion. The Lord willl circumcise their heart(s), and cut off the Flesh (of the world) to leave a spiritual core.
6)vs.7 Israels enemies will be judged.
7)vs.9 Israel will then receive her full blessing.
Notice that they were to obey (and love) God and they would prosper. Israel did not and they were dispersed. So when do they come back according to these passages. When they obey (and love) God? NO.
When they REPENT God will show compassion and gather them back to the land. When they are back in the land, and because they had repented – THEN the Lord will circumcise their hearts. Thus making it possible for the people to obey and love God. Not only possible, but want (desire) to love and obey.
It is the same for us: First we must repent and “turn back to God” and accept Jesus as our Savior. Then we are given a regenerated (circumcised) heart that enables us to want to obey (and love) God.
Bob at bible.org has a pretty good list of summary points for Deut. under the CONCLUSION section:
http://www.bible.org/page.asp?page_id=1402
John

======= John:

I echo Dwayne’s endorsement of Bob’s commentary on Luke 11:
http://www.bible.org/page.asp?page_id=1108
(same as Mike’s link)
Sometimes we are all pressed for time to take on other readings. If nothing else, I would encourage people to scroll down and at least read the “Conclusions” of these bible.org commentaries. Then if something pricks your interest, you can always scroll back up and read more of the commentary.
Just one exerpt from Bob’s conclusion section on Luke 11 that addresses some points discussed here on the blog:
“How is it that people so committed to holiness can stray so far? If I understand this text correctly, we would have to say that it is by perverting the Scriptures. Just as Satan sought to use the Scriptures to tempt our Lord, so he employs the Scriptures to defeat the Christian. For those who hold the Scriptures in high esteem, Satan seeks to distort their grasp of the Scriptures. He accomplishes this is by working to make God’s Word merely a duty, and not delight, to make it a burden, and not a blessing. If the grace of God can be overshadowed by man’s guilt, if man’s efforts can be the focus rather than God’s, if the ministry of the Spirit can be set aside, then Satan has achieved his purpose. And if Satan can get our attention on but one portion of the Scriptures (as the Law was for the Pharisees) and not on the whole Bible, then we are sure to have a distorted grasp of God’s revelation. Also, if he can cause us to focus on one area of truth, to the exclusion of others, the Scriptures can be (mis)used to produce sin and not righteousness. The heart attitude with which we come to the Scriptures, as well as the way we study them plays a vital role in our Christian walk.”
John

======= John:

Luke 12
“Fear” has been discussed in the past regarding reverence or awe of God.
Bob addresses the “fear” in Luke 12:4-7 under:
The Lord’s Second
Argument Against Hypocrisy
(12:4-7)
“…Jesus did not seek to minimize the fact that many of them might die, but did seek to put that death into perspective. He told His disciples that physical death was not to be feared, but rather spiritual death—spending eternity in hell….”
http://www.bible.org/page.asp?page_id=1109
By the way this is one of twelve times the word “geena or Gehenna” is used in the gospels. Seems pretty explicit to me. After the body is dead, (then) has the power to cast you into hell. Greek word for “power” is “exousia” and is absolute authority.
Definition of geena:
Hell is the place of the future punishment called “Gehenna” or “Gehenna of fire”. This was originally the valley of Hinnom, south of Jerusalem, where the filth and dead animals of the city were cast out and burned; a fit symbol of the wicked and their future destruction.
[NOTE: Not to be confused with the fire of purification, but rather it is the fire of consumation.]
John

======= Ramona:

As I continued reading and meditating on today’s Old Testament passages on my way to work, verses came to my mind from the New Testament, and some where the Words of Jesus. As Moses rehearsed to the people how God brought them through the wilderness in chapter 29: 2-9, I could hear Jesus speaking,
And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith? Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. (Matthew 6:28-33 KJVR)
In the 30th chapter when Israel is told that when she finds herself in her exile and returns to God and then the Lord will restore her “fortunes,” I heard the voice of John speak,
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:9 KJVR)
The Old Testament is the New Testament concealed. Before I began this year’s readings, that statement was something I had heard and had just given it mental assent. However, this year mental assenting has given way to heartfelt understanding. I have also been impacted by verses 11-20, in chapter 30 had have a deeper understanding that the life I walk in is all about choices—choosing life or death, blessing or curses, and how I chose is not done by ballot but by my decision to obey or disobey God’s commands. But, even at the crossroad of decision God doesn’t leave me clueless, He gives me a great bit giant intimation that is BIGGER much greater clue than vowel given in the game, Wheel of Fortune, and I don’t even have to buy it. God tells me which one to chose, He tells me to choose life.
Ramona

======= Vance:

Deuteronomy 29 (NKJV)
12
that you may enter into covenant with the LORD your God, and into His oath, which the LORD your God makes with you today,
13
that He may establish you today as a people for Himself, and that He may be God to you, just as He has spoken to you, and just as He has sworn to your fathers, to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
14
“I make this covenant and this oath, not with you alone,
15
but with him who stands here with us today before the LORD our God, as well as with him who is not here with us today
19
and so it may not happen, when he hears the words of this curse, that he blesses himself in his heart, saying, ‘I shall have peace, even though I follow the dictates [ OR… stubbornness ] of my heart’—as though the drunkard could be included with the sober.
Deuteronomy 30 (NKJV)
6
And the LORD your God will circumcise your heart and the heart of your descendants, to love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul, that you may live.
~~~
See this note from the Amplified Bible on Deuteronomy 29:19:
“It is on the strength of the Lord’s oath to be Israel’s God and so to protect them that this Israelite flatters himself into thinking he is secure, no matter how he may behave. In the history of religion such a delusion has been lamentably frequent, and persons depending upon the unlimited protection of election have presumed on this and recklessly indulged in evil (The Cambridge Bible). The Bible emphasizes the ‘security of the saints,’ but it is equally emphatic concerning the insecurity of those in conscious and continued indifference to God (Ezek. 3:20; 18:24, 26; Gal. 6:8; James 1:21; II Pet. 1:10, 11; Rev. 22:14).”
~~~
NOTE:
THE WRATH OF GOD AGAINST SIN.
Though it may be uncomfortable to ponder this, we need to remember this:
Jesus and the Father are One– in essence and in unity. This is precisely why Jesus was crucified– because He claimed to be the Son of God which, to the Jewish thinking given to them by God, also means He is God.
So whatever God the Father did in the OT Jesus is also doing and affirming. This is the essence of what the Lord Jesus meant when He said, “I only do what I see the Father doing” (John 5:19, 30)
This fits with Luke 11 (NKJV):
39
Then the Lord said to him, “Now you Pharisees make the outside of the cup and dish clean, but your inward part is full of greed and wickedness.
40
Foolish ones! Did not He who made the outside make the inside also?
41
But rather give alms of such things as you have; then indeed all things are clean to you.
Luke 12 (NKJV)
1
In the meantime, when an innumerable multitude of people had gathered together, so that they trampled one another, He began to say to His disciples first of all, “Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy.
2
For there is nothing covered that will not be revealed, nor hidden that will not be known.
Whatever is hidden in the dark — whether good or bad — will be brought into the light, and our works will be judged.
Psalm 78
5
For He established a testimony in Jacob, And appointed a law in Israel,
Which He commanded our fathers, That they should make them known to their children;
6
That the generation to come might know them, The children who would be born,
hat they may arise and declare them to their children,
7
That they may set their hope in God, And not forget the works of God, But keep His commandments;
8
And may not be like their fathers, A stubborn and rebellious generation,
A generation that did not set its heart aright,
And whose spirit was not faithful to God.
~~~
God has left a witness in the heavens and has given witness through His Word. His Spirit is drawing all men to Himself, and to His witness in the world.
GET THIS: We have a VITAL part to play in this, but how many of us really participate?
We are called to “share in the fellowship of His sufferings”. Obviously, ONLY JESUS could bear all the sins of humanity. But, our part is to JOIN THE LORD JESUS IN INTERCESSION for those who need the Lord.
Romans 1 (NKJV)
18
For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness,
19
because what may be known of God is manifest in them, for God has shown it to them.
20
For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse,
21
because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened.
22
Professing to be wise, they became fools,
23
and changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like corruptible man—and birds and four-footed animals and creeping things.
24
Therefore God also gave them up to uncleanness, in the lusts of their hearts, to dishonor their bodies among themselves,
25
who exchanged the truth of God for the lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen.
~~~
Romans 2 (NKJV)
16
in the day when God will judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ, according to my gospel.
Acts 17 (NKJV)
30
Truly, these times of ignorance God overlooked, but now commands all men everywhere to repent,
31
because He has appointed a day on which He will judge the world in righteousness by the Man whom He has ordained. He has given assurance of this to all by raising Him from the dead.”
Vance

======= Sandy:

Thanks, Vance, for your exhortation to “join the Lord Jesus,” in prayer, and may I add, in proclaiming that He only is the way of salvation. Someone once asked a friend of mine, “If everyone else was doing what you are doing to spread the gospel, would this world be reached; would the Great Commission be fulfilled in our lifetime?”
I agree that there must be secrets God is reserving to reveal to us only when we meet Him face-to-face. Yet it also is an awesome, humbling, privileged truth that we are able to “read God’s mind.” —Wasn’t the greatest mystery, or secret, of the ages the wisdom of God, which is Christ crucified? ( 1Cor.2:2). And we have entered into the “foolishness” of this wisdom, that God chooses us, the foolish and weak of the world, to have faith and to have His Spirit indwell us. So with His Spirit, we are able to “search all things, even the depths of God. For who among men knows the thoughts of a man except the spirit of the man which is in him? Even so the thoughts of God no one knows except the Spirit of God. Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, so that we may know the things freely given to us by God…
FOR WHO HAS KNOWN THE MIND OF THE LORD, THAT HE WILL INSTRUCT HIM? But we have the MIND of Christ.” 1Cor.2:12-16. Wow! His grace is beyond understanding!
Sandy

Deuteronomy 28:1-68 + Luke 11:14-36 + Psalm 77:1-20 + Proverbs 12:18
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Old Testament – I love the blessings for obedience that open up our Deuteronomy chapter 28 readings today!  I actually first heard these read at a wedding several years back.  The best man in the wedding read these verses as a blessing to the bride & groom.  Somehow I missed the “obedience” to God’s commands part of the blessing… Obedience is quite a word I think for Christians to consider.  I’m not sure that it is a popular word for us sometimes.  I do believe that we are called to obedience as followers of Jesus.  Jesus himself was of course obedient – obedient even to death on a cross.  Is there an area of your life where you feel God might be calling you to obedience?  Will you obey?  Below is a little obedience humor for you… 🙂

New Testament – Jesus’ teaching in Luke chapter 11 verse 23 is so important for us to understand – “Anyone who isn’t helping me opposes me, and anyone who isn’t working with me is actually working against me.”   How does this verse speak to you?  For me it convicts me.  Yeah, maybe for some of my time I am helping Jesus and the Kingdom of God, but I think there is a lot of time where I am not working with Jesus.  I am maybe indulging in some seemingly harmless trivial pursuits or material pleasures – but they aren’t really working with Jesus.  And am I then, at those times, actually working against Jesus?  I don’t know.  I want to pray on this more.  I do know that we are called to rest & relaxation in our lives – a time of Sabbath rest each week.  We don’t have to be frantically seeking to “do” & serve Jesus 24 x 7.  But, I do think it’s possible that we can live our lives more “intentionally” – meaning, examine the intent of why we do what we do.  And ultimately, is what we are doing with our time helping and working with Jesus?  Or is it not?  I think being intentional with our time and how we are spending our lives is so important…  because time flies as we all know.

Jesus’ teaching in Luke chapter 11 verse 36 is powerful for each of us to consider! “If you are filled with light, with no dark corners, then your whole life will be radiant, as though a floodlight is shining on you.”  That second little clause there I think is key – with no dark corners.  I’ll admit that I have traveled through life with some dark corners.  And it is no way to go.  The dark corners do affect the Light really shining in you and through you – and the dark corners I believe can affect your relationship with God.  I pray that if you know you have a dark corner in your life, confess it to God and Jesus.  Pray for forgiveness and repent!  God will fill you with light – a light that will penetrate and remove those dark corners in your life.  But, you’ve gotta confess them & repent of them with God…   You know it’s worth it.  To live a radiant life, as though a floodlight is shining on you is the only way to live!

Bible.org’s commentary on Luke chapter 11’s readings today titled “Evidence that Produced Various Verdicts” is at this link.

Psalms – Today in Psalm 77 verses 11 and 12 we read – “I will remember the deeds of the LORD; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago. I will meditate on all your works and consider all your mighty deeds.” I think these verses get at one of the amazing things about each of us reading the One Year Bible this year – both the Old & New Testaments. We are reading perhaps for the first time – or maybe the 17th time – about God’s miracles of long ago. We are “remembering” God’s miracles for our spiritual ancestors, for ourselves, and for those around us in our lives today whom we will teach about God’s saving love. As you are reading through the One Year Bible this year, are you truly “remembering” God’s miracles of long ago? Are you meditating on all of His mighty works and considering His mighty deeds? Are you being transformed by this process? And will you now go forth and help others in your life “remember” and meditate on God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit’s miracles of long ago?  Let us pray for “remembrance” today for ourselves and for others in our lives. If very modern day post-it notes will help you remember God’s miracles and will help you meditate on all of God’s works, then by all means please use as many post-it notes as you deem necessary! 🙂 

Verse 11 of this Psalm brings up miracles.  Has anyone read C.S. Lewis’s book Miracles?  I have not yet, but hope to soon.  Please post up a quick review in the Comments section below if you’ve read it?  Thanks.

Proverbs – Proverbs chapter 12 verse 18 is such a strong reminder that the words that come out of our mouths can either build people up – and even heal them – or tear people down – “Some people make cutting remarks, but the words of the wise bring healing.”  Are the words coming out of your mouth these days cutting people or are they healing people?

Worship Video: Today’s readings remind me of Josh Baldwin’s song “Evidence:”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OgNIeTPXBq4

Do you see God’s Evidence in your life? Click here for Evidence!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on a verse of Scripture today: “Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.” Proverbs 12:18 NIV

Prayer Point: Pray that the words of your mouth bring healing to others. Pray that you never have reckless words that pierce others like a sword. Pray that your words are wise.

Comments from You & Questions of the Day:  Back to my Deuteronomy chapter 28 reflections on obedience – do you think about “obedience” very often when it comes to your relationship with God?  Do you think obedience is a very popular concept amongst Christians today?  Do you think there are blessings that come along with obedience?  Have you experienced blessings in your life because of obedience?  Conversely, do you think there are consequences to disobedience?  Also, what verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings?  Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 – Download a schedule of our Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

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BLOG READERS HISTORICAL COMMUNITY COMMENTS:
(our Group Bible Study is below! : )

======= Ramona:

Deuteronomy 28:1-68
Jesus said in Matthew chapter 7, 14 but the gateway to life is small, and the road is narrow, and only a few ever find it.
Reading this chapter one can see that in the total number of verses, 68 with 14 (20%) dedicated to blessings and the remaining verses, all fifty-six of them (80%) focusing on the curses that will come upon you and overtake you if you don’t obey. WOW!
You can see why God constantly reiterates the Laws and the blessings of obey or the consequences of disobeying. Failure to listen carefully and take heed takes an enormous toll on the law-breaker and the descendents.
Let him who has ears to hear let him hear!
Luke 11:14-36
24 “When an evil spirit leaves a person, it goes into the desert, searching for rest. But when it finds none, it says, `I will return to the person I came from.’ 25 So it returns and finds that its former home is all swept and clean. 26 Then the spirit finds seven other spirits more evil than itself, and they all enter the person and live there. And so that person is worse off than before.”
I’m not sure if my understanding and the application of that understanding is correct with this text but I see each and every person going through the Bible in a year with Mike as one who is filling their “home” with the Word of God so that the evil spirit that has been swept out of the house will not find it empty when it returns with his friends.
When we desire the Word of God more than our necessary food, I believe nothing but nothing can enter us that is not of God because there is no space for anything else to enter. Think “stuffed.”
Psalm 77:1-20
This Psalmist poured his heart out to God telling God what he thought, that he had been forgotten. But at each interlude or at each “selah” the writer takes time to reflect and then remembers what God has done in the past and states in the closing verse,
20 You led your people along that road like a flock of sheep,
with Moses and Aaron as their shepherds.
This sets him up to raise the level of his expectation to receive from God.
So often we get caught up in the battlefield of living that we forget what God has done in the past. We forget that God doesn’t change and what He did then He will do now, for us. It is good to rehearse in our own hearing the things of God because faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God. (Romans 10:17) This sort of ties into Deuteronomy 28.
Proverbs 12:18
I think this little Proverb must really be studied because this seems to say at first glance that if hurtful words are spoken they must be bad. The last word in the Proverb, in the NLT, is the word healing. Hmmm, I’ve been hospitalized, five times, two for childbirth, one to have an ovarian cyst removed, once for a bad spider bite that became infected almost to the bone, and once to have the procedure that Condoleezza Rice just had a couple of months ago.
Some of the procedures that had to be done to get to the problem were painful. When someone has open-heart surgery, they take a saw and cut through your chest, pull the back the bone they just cut through, and then work on your heart. The process to get to your heart can be more painful and more dangerous than what they have to do to your heart to fix it. In the hands of a skilled Physician the risk of surgery is decreased and the more the surgeon operates the more skillful he or she becomes. However, if the auto mechanic performs the operation, well, your dead.
I guess I’m saying that cutting remarks may not be so cutting if they are directed by the Holy Spirit to fix an underlying problem. There are words that have been spoken to me that caused great pain because the words spoken pointed to truth about myself that I didn’t want to deal with. Cutting to get to the truth always hurts.
All truth is confrontational, especially the truth about oneself. I think this Proverb is speaking about the motivation behind the words that are spoken into a person’s life and the life skills wisdom has given the speaker to bring healing with the use of their words.
Grace and peace,
Ramona

======= Kristie:

I haven’t read Miracles.
But I enjoyed the reading today.
Just to let anyone know, I did miss yesterdays’ reading. So I haven’t been completely on track. But I press on in God’s grace!!!
The Psalm was helpful to me. To remember the way God lead his people through the Red Sea…it says “yet your footprints were unseen.” Everyone saw his mighty works, but no one saw Him as they were lead by their leaders Moses and Aaron. God was there in control of nature and His leaders and their enemies. It reminded me that I can take the same confidence the He is with me now through stormy times, leading me.
Kristie

======= Anka:

Disobedience:It made Lucifer turn from the most beautiful creature to the world’s ugliest(pictures of satan are often really hideous).I always wondered what it was about Jews that made people hate them,now I know it’s the consequence of disobedience.The cannibalism,the madness,the blindness and confusion of the mind…all results of disobedience.”Men will become lovers of themselves”,eating someone up just to make sure you don’t starve to death is the ugliest expression of an attempted self preservation(self love)I can think of.Yet we see it daily,people kill for money,position,pleasure.
I think I should really meditate on the curses of disobedience so when I want to disobey God,I can really know what consequences will follow.
“Any kingdom divided against itself will be ruined, and a house divided against itself will fall”Many times I think of this verse in the light of christians..we disagree on so much and make a sermon out of it:we make an issue of paying tithes or not,drinking wine or not,gifts of the Spirit….and some times we get so ugly with each other it makes us wonder if we’re on the same team.I saw a team of young Americans yesterday who are in Romania to help in orphanages and they had this written on their sweat shirts:ONE GOD,ONE TEAM,ONE MISSION.I think we should all think about who we’re truly serving/worshipping/obeying…our whims or Christ..Lets set aside our differences cos they’ll always be there and be christians(followers of Christ)…
God bless you all
Anka

======= Ramona:

Anka,
A very interesting and observant statement, >> I always wondered what it was about Jews that made people hate them, now I know it’s the consequence of disobedience. >>. Yet there is another side to what you have observed, despite Israel’s disobedience this “curse” remains in effect for all those who come against Abraham and his descendents,
And I will bless those who bless you [who confer prosperity or happiness upon you] and curse him who curses or uses insolent language toward you; in you will all the families and kindred of the earth be blessed [and by you they will bless themselves]. [Gal. 3:8.] (Genesis 12:3 AMP),
Then reiterated to Jacob/Israel again,
Let peoples serve you and nations bow down to you; be master over your brothers, and let your mother’s sons bow down to you. Let everyone be cursed who curses you and favored with blessings who blesses you. (Genesis 27:29 AMP)
And then to the Nation of Israel, though Moses,
But if you will indeed listen to and obey His voice and all that I speak, then I will be an enemy to your enemies and an adversary to your adversaries. (Exodus 23:22 AMP)
All blessings to you,
Ramona

======= Anka:

Thanks Ramona,God bless you too:)
Anka

======= Becky:

This verse stood out to me as if neon lights:
“If you do not serve the Lord your God in joy and enthusiasm for the abundant blessings you have received, you will serve your enemies whom the Lord will send against you.” Deut. 28:47
I think I’m complaining too much lately, and “enemies” can be people, Satan, enslavement to sin, etc.
RE C.S. Lewis’ book, “Miracles”
I’ve never had the chance to read that; however, I have recently read “The Cosmic Trilogy” and it’s wonderful. I highly recommend it.
Becky

======= Duane:

Today’s reading was pretty intense on the flipside of obedience. I read with some mourning knowing that parts of this curse are now found abundantly in every corner of the world now.
The blessing took so many fewer words to express than the curse and yet, I defy anyone to be discontent with a life such as the one blessed for obedience to God. It speaks to me on the way when you live obediently to the instructing of the Holy Spirit in your life, that living is not complicated. It is not some inane set of impossible rituals, but something you were created to do and do well.
I had a conversation with people last night who were the very example of what Christ spoke of with the people who are that radiant light. There is no corner in their lives not touched by the light of Christ and so they were an absolute joy just to sit and speak with over the absolute simplest of things in life that are made absolute joy by living a cornerless life.
It was convicting for me to remember that I may, in fact, live that life where everything is joy and everything is gain. Everything I survey is my inheritance, and everything that is cursed around me will fade away like a sneeze in the wind.
Duane

====== Erin:

I truly believe that obedience plays a key role in our relationship with God.
Erin

======= Jenny:

True genuine Christ followers know that it is impossible to please God without obedience
In 1 Samuel 15:22 it say:
“What is more pleasing to the Lord: your burnt offerings and sacrifices or your obedience to his voice? Listen! Obedience is better than sacrifice, and submission is better than offering the fat of rams.”
God doesnt want our sacrifice, He wants our love, our hearts, our obedience. He says: “If you love Me, you will keep my commandments!” (or, obey Me!) John 14:15
There is no way around it! sacrifice is relatively easy compared to obedience. I dont know much about Lent, but I know ppl sacrifice certain things, i think it’s Catholic ? No offense to ppl who practice it, I dont fully understand it, i know ppl give up meat and stuff. but from what I’ve seen for the most part, its worthless!! I hear coworkers or friends who participate in that, not believers, but during that time they give up pot, drinking and premarital sex. Are u kidding??? what on earth do they hope to gain by giving up some sinful practices for a while. so ridiculous to me…so no offense, but what I’ve seen of Lent, watever it is, leaves a bad taste in my mouth!
God doesnt want our worthless filthy rags! but He does want our obedience!
I love Psalm 77, I know that depression! Um, sorry, i dont understand ppl’s obsession with post-its..that picture is kinda creepy, haha.
Jenny

======= Lisa:

The path of the righteous is like the light of dawn-getting brighter until the full day(when we see Jesus) If your path is not getting brighter each day, it is time to have a little(or long) talk with Jesus!
Lisa

======= Skip:

Again…it’s been a while since I posted, but I’ve been in the blog daily. Thank you Mike.
The following versus from Deuteronomy stood out to me today.
Deuteronomy 28:36-37, 49-52, 64-67
36 “The LORD will exile you and your king to a nation unknown to you and your ancestors. There in exile you will worship gods of wood and stone! 37 You will become an object of horror, ridicule, and mockery among all the nations to which the LORD sends you.
49 “The LORD will bring a distant nation against you from the end of the earth, and it will swoop down on you like a vulture. It is a nation whose language you do not understand, 50 a fierce and heartless nation that shows no respect for the old and no pity for the young. 51 Its armies will devour your livestock and crops, and you will be destroyed. They will leave you no grain, new wine, olive oil, calves, or lambs, and you will starve to death. 52 They will attack your cities until all the fortified walls in your land—the walls you trusted to protect you—are knocked down. They will attack all the towns in the land the LORD your God has given you.
64 For the LORD will scatter you among all the nations from one end of the earth to the other. There you will worship foreign gods that neither you nor your ancestors have known, gods made of wood and stone! 65 There among those nations you will find no peace or place to rest. And the LORD will cause your heart to tremble, your eyesight to fail, and your soul to despair. 66 Your life will constantly hang in the balance. You will live night and day in fear, unsure if you will survive. 67 In the morning you will say, ‘If only it were night!’ And in the evening you will say, ‘If only it were morning!’ For you will be terrified by the awful horrors you see around you.
You are asking about obedience. I believe obedience is a key to being a child of God. We must obey His commandments and we must obey and follow His teachings.
I also believe that there are consequences to us not obeying. I do believe that God disciplines us when we are not following His word. While I was reading the above versus from Deuteronomy today I could not help but to think about how the Jewish people were cast out of Israel and scattered throughout the world where they were persecuted, mocked and killed. I kept thinking about the horrors the Jewish people faced against the Nazi’s. Were these versus part of prophesy that led to the persecution of the Jews? Were the persecutions some of the plaques that God brought against the Jewish people? Maybe I’m all wrong here, but I couldn’t help thinking about those terrible years during the Nazi reign while reading these versus.
Yours in Christ
Skip

======= Lori:

Yes, we are called to be obedient, and yes we know there are consequences for NOT being obedient. That being said, sometimes obedience comes with consequences too and I want to encourage you that if you are being obedient to God and His word and life is not perfect, you are not being punished. It is a lie from the enemy that will make you question if obeying God is worth the suffering you are going through. Let me assure you, it is. Take heart, be obedient, and press on!
Lori

======= Romayne:

You mention about the dark corners of our lives, but the point in that statement was what He said about how the eye is the lamp of our lives – it’s what we look at that taints our light, hence if we spend much of our day watching secular TV, soaps, and other such rubbish, it cuts into the light of your life. I never used to believe this to any degree, until I found myself often thinking over a plot in a soap to the point where I would end up thinking of nothing else for hours and even dreaming about it, or something in a film would play on my mind endlessly. It taught me that these things do go into our inner being in some way and Satan can use them to block out the light. Same with pornography obviously and other such media, and even just lustful looks at the opposite sex. All these things are of no value. When we “soak” ourselves in worship, scripture, and Christian films or media etc, we start to live more according to those values than the world’s, hence our light is increased and shines out of us to those around us. I have to confess tho, that I’m still trying to overcome the temptation of one soap in particular, which may not be the worst, but is of no value to my life either, but it’s tough :)).!!
Romayne

======= Debra:

Yes it is tough, I know this all to well. But recently my internet was shut off for lack of paymen. However that is not the problem, I am now able to get print outs or save stuff on a disc to access on my pc at home, what have I been saving , bible verses and stories that work to uplift me and help me think about and focus( I hope) more on God and what he wants me to think about and read. Now that I have been without it I hardly miss it.
Debra

======= Terriann:

Today I saw many contrasts; obedience/disobedience, blessings/curses, the power of God vs. the power of satan, light/darkness, response to limited revelation vs. lack of response to great revelation. We have a choice before us every moment of the day. Like the psalmist I can choose to remember the wonderful miracles and blessings that God has done in the past, both in scripture and in my life, or I can focus on the circumstances that surround me. Like Peter looking at the waves instead of at Jesus, I always have a choice where I fix my gaze. From Proverbs I see that I also have a choice about what comes out of my mouth. Let it be healing and praise!
Terriann

======= Tosh:

I really believe the proverbs verse speaks to me. I’m learning about the power of the tongue and how the words that come out of my mouth effect others.
Proverbs 12:18 There is one who speaks like the piercings of a sword,
But the tongue of the wise promotes health.
I want my words to bring health and life
Tosh

======= Bobbie:

Deut. 28– This chapter is a well-known chapter of what will happen if you obey and disobey God.
Deut. 28:2-2. And all these blessings shall come on thee, and overtake thee, if thou shalt hearken unto the voice of the LORD thy God.
– Blessings comes when you hearken to the voice of the Lord
Deut. 28:1515. But it shall come to pass, if thou wilt not hearken unto the voice of the LORD thy God, to observe to do all his commandments and his statutes which I command thee this day; that all these curses shall come upon thee, and overtake thee:
– God is not kidding for what He said: Truly this will come after you blessings and courses it depends on how will you understand this chapter.
Bobbie

======= Mark:

Mike – Thank you so much for creating this blog. It really helps to get the perspective of other people as I read the Bible.
Ramona – Thank you for your unique insight and perspective. Your commentary is a wonderful complement to Mike’s writing.
Sincerely,
Mark

======= Sheila:

Mike, I am so glad I discovered your blog. This is my third time reading thru the Bible. I have been reading thru Chronologically and then logging on to Wendypope and read a similar commentary to yours, but since I really wanted to read OT, NT, Pslams and Proverbs each day, I made the switch from Chronological to this way of reading, so I am glad to have found you!!! (It was Wendy who taught me to search for “nuggets” in my readings as I NEVER knew how to read the Bible for myself. I thought it had to be preached and taught to me.) What a lie that was. : ) So thankful to search for those “nuggets” to meditate on and so happy to read thru your “nuggets” Mike and gain more perspective.
Blessings in Christ,
Sheila in Wisconsin

======= Cathy:

Mike and Romana,
This is the first time that I am truly read every day on the One Year Bible as well as comments. Thank you both so much for insights you brought to readers on this blog. It sincerely helps me understand God scriptures.
Thank you again and all the blessings.
Cathy

======= Joyce:

Mike and everyone,
Indeed “obedience” is not a popular idea in today’s world.
But thank you Mike for asking us to think about the blessings that come along with obedience.
One huge blessing for me is I could enjoy true peace and close fellowship with God.
Luke 11:24-26
What Ramona said is so encouraging:
‘I see each and every person going through the Bible in a year with Mike as one who is filling their “home” with the Word of God so that the evil spirit that has been swept out of the house will not find it empty when it returns with his friends.’
Wow – may it be true!
Sincerely,
Joyce

======= Jill:

I like. That word intentional. We have to be conscience of what is sin. How sin can take over. So if we recognize sin and ask God to help us withstand the devil. We can break down strongholds. We can’t do it on our own. Obedience goes with that. Obedience first to our Father then whatever he asks of us won’t be difficult. Total surrender to him. Blessings come after for following him and being obedient. God will reward those who earnestly seek him.
“And it is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that God exists and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him.”
‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭11:6‬ ‭NLT‬‬
Jill

======= Robert:

Deuteronomy 28
Some bold writing here that really cuts to the worst of human condition and consequences of the curses of disobedience. This reading brought back some of my terrible memories from Grade 6. I brought my hamsters with a mom that just had some babies to school. The fellow students loved seeing them and handling them all day long. It was wonderful until 3 days in I arrived one morning to no more babies. Mom had eaten her young! Those verses from 53-57 describe the “suffering” this poor mom had to endure to the point of such distress that she would do something so dreadful. It was quite a lesson for our class but so sad. You may wonder how people could resort to such anguish and desolation but it gives us an example of the seriousness of what God is saying.
This reading is right in line with our reading tomorrow in Luke 11:37-54 where Jesus lays out the 6 Woes. It is also a great reflect on our sinful ways. It is important to know that we may be wrong even though Life is good. The Holy Spirit should convict us with signs and warnings and I believe Jesus is giving us truths here that may be hard to swallow (Pharisee). The reading of the Sigh of Jonah Luke 11: 29-32, is a good example because through out history God sent “signs” to show people the way to live. God sends these signs to protect us, not punish us. Remember, God sends his Son as a sigh!
Robert

======= Dee:

Obedience. That is a loaded word. To obey. So many people refuse to heed instructions and not obey God . I n Bible, there are many who tried to run away from God and not obey..Jonah..the prodigal Son, and many today..are running from the truth. I wish more did pursue Obedience but I don’t think it’s the case. But I pray I obey and refuse to compromise daily. Seek ye first the kingdom and all his righteousness will be added unto u. Hallelujah
Dee

======= Tammi:

There is a children’s song about obedience. “Obedience is the very best way to show that you believe.” I think it teaches how important obedience really is. It’s not a calling; it’s a command. Jesus says in John 14:15, “If you love me, keep my commandments.” I appreciate humor, but a cartoon of a little boy telling his puppy to obey is not quite the picture of necessity of this command. It’s vital to our walk and growth to obey. Fortunately, we are forgiven if we repent, because God is merciful.
In Christ,
Tammi

======= Margaret:

Really enjoying reading thru the Bible and reading the comments and so far keeping up and not getting left behind!
Margaret

======= Debbie:

Mike, you didn’t mention the curses which Ramona has pointed out are 80%!! The Jewish people have experienced them over and over sadly. Job too experienced the boils from the sole of his feet to the top of his head. God wants us to serve Him “joyfully and gladly” or else. It’s terrifying to be the Chosen.
Just to add. God’s laws were for the Israelites’ benefit and for them to treat others well and fairly. It wasn’t that onerous.
Debbie

======= Ramona:

Deuteronomy 28:1-68
The blessings that follow obedience is a “draw” to the nations, a means by which Israel proclaims the power and glory of God by no other means then following carefully after God. “You will be blessed …If you obey the commands of the Lord your God and walk in his ways…” Obedience is a means of beautification that draw men and women to the light that is Christ,
And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me. (John 12:32 KJV)
Yet, even though our obedience attracts a crown, a community, a nation and nations, we must be wise as serpents and harmless as doves. If the New Testament reading (Luke 11:33-36), is juxtaposed against the part of Deuteronomy 28 dealing with the blessings, specifically verses nine and ten (“If you obey the commands of the LORD your God and walk in his ways, the LORD will establish you as his holy people as he solemnly promised to do. Then all the nations of the world will see that you are a people claimed by the LORD, and they will stand in awe of you.), can obedience be seen as the light that lights the lamp?
“No one after lighting a lamp puts it in a hidden place or under a basket, but on a lampstand, so that those who come in can see the light. Your eye is the lamp of your body. When your eye is healthy, your whole body is full of light, but when it is diseased, your body is full of darkness. Therefore see to it that the light in you is not darkness. (Luke 11:33-35 NET.)
Could the light that is really darkness be us when we change the commands of God and put forth commands of man as though they were from God?
There is another passage in this chapter of Deuteronomy that really caught my attention for the first time and that was verses fifty-three through fifty-seven, the consequence of disobedience:
You will then eat your own offspring, the flesh of the sons and daughters the LORD your God has given you, because of the severity of the siege by which your enemies will constrict you. The man among you who is by nature tender and sensitive will turn against his brother, his beloved wife, and his remaining children. He will withhold from all of them his children’s flesh that he is eating (since there is nothing else left), because of the severity of the siege by which your enemy will constrict you in your villages. Likewise, the most tender and delicate of your women, who would never think of putting even the sole of her foot on the ground because of her daintiness, will turn against her beloved husband, her sons and daughters, and will secretly eat her afterbirth and her newborn children (since she has nothing else), because of the severity of the siege by which your enemy will constrict you in your villages. (Deuteronomy 28:53-57 NET.)
Though I believe this foretelling literally happened (Recorded in Kings/Chronicles), I also wonder what this really looks like figuratively. When parents make choices that have an effect on the children they give birth too, choices they make in an attempt to avert the consequences of their disobedience, the children are consumed. Are we sacrificing our children on the alters of our bad decisions. Abortion is the sacrificing of children on the alter of our “pleasure,” and is an attempt to avoid responsibility and accountability. Just some “stuff” for me to think about.
Grace and peace,
Ramona

======= John:

Deut 28 – this is about Israel
I forgot Deut. had prophecies in it.
We can look at the blessings and say, ‘how nice’, and then we look at the curses and say ‘aw come on’. The curses have to be symbolic, metaphor, some kind of lesson – God must be using Hyperbole here in Deut. 28.
Maybe, but lets look at some facts:
Israelites traveled forty years thru the Desert and grew to around 2,000,000 people.
Israel could not obey the Law. Often reverted back to worshiping idols, perverted the law with hypocrisy, and did not recognize the Messiah.
Today, after about 3,000+ years the total world Population of the Jews is around 13,000,000. What happened?
http://www.jafi.org.il/education/100/concepts/demography/demtables.html#1
There were three conquerings by Assyria, Babylon and Rome. With diasporas (dispersals) in the cases of Assyria and Rome. Assyria conquered Israel and dispersed the ten tribes where only remnants remain today. Babylon captured Judah, but took the people back to Babylon from which they eventually returned. Rome totally destroyed the country and the Jewish people were dispersed world-wide.
Some will call it a result of disobeying the Law and coming under the “curse” of God. Others will say it is “bad luck”.
So what is outlined in Deut. 28? Most commentators believe Deut 28:32-37 refers to the Babylonian captivity. Deut 28:48-57 refers to Rome conquering/destroying the Jewish nation.
I am a little more familiar with Rome. Rome came from far away, their language and their mercenaries’ languages would be hard to understand, their army standards bore the symbol of an eagle, their strategy was to lay siege to each city in turn. Josephus, War of the Jews 6.3.4, describes a scene where Jerusalem fell into cannabilism during Titus’ siege. (Deut. mentions this over 1,3oo years before it happened.)
After that more curses and the world-wide dispersal – surely something no one would deny.So what about all the little details of horrible things that were to happen? I don’t know. Perhaps they are metaphors, perhaps they happened but nobody recorded them, or were lost wrtings.
What I do know:
The people existed, by the Old Testament and other Hebrew writings they turned from God periodically and violated the Law, and they were conquered three times and dispersed twice.
Anti-semitism exists. Not so bad in America, but bad in other parts of the World. People don’t so much come back to Israel, but some “flee” back for refuge.
Their population because of dispersal and some inter-marriage has not increased by as much as one would think.
I leave it up to the individual to decide was all this a result of God’s Curse from Deut 28, or just “bad luck”.
John

======= John:

Sign of Jonah and the Lamp
“Two things strike me about our Lord’s use of the Ninevites and the Queen of the South. The first is that both are Gentiles, and they, because of their belief, will condemn the unbelief of this generation of Israelites. The second is that both parties believed with much less evidence than that which this generation had seen.”
http://www.bible.org/page.asp?page_id=1107
They heard correctly. Now Jesus addresses “sight”.
“…Jesus is saying that everyone who failed to interpret the evidence of this miracle as they should has done so because of a defect in their ability to “see” the truth, not because of any deficiency in the evidence.” – ibid.
In the lamp illustration those that have good eyes your whole body is full of light.
Depending on the translation of “good” – functioning, open or perhaps “good” in the sense that you are “turned to the Lord”.
When eyes are bad the translations can be closed, blind, or “evil” as in “turned away from the Lord”. Thus you would be full of darkness (sin).
v. 35 struck me
Make sure what you are filled with is lightness not darkness. Don’t be mistaken. Don’t be turned away from the Lord and think you have the illumination, when you really are in darkness. You can not truly receive the light unless you are “turned to the Lord”.
John

======= Anka:

John,
thanks for saving me the trouble to ask about the sign of Jonah and the lamp:) your post really clarified my questions.
Anka

======= Vance:

Deuteronomy 28 (NKJV)
12
The LORD will open to you His good treasure, the heavens, to give the rain to your land in its season, and to bless all the work of your hand. You shall lend to many nations, but you shall not borrow.
13
And the LORD will make you the head and not the tail; you shall be above only, and not be beneath, if you heed the commandments of the LORD your God, which I command you today, and are careful to observe them.
~~~
Obedience is VERY important. OBEDIENCE to God’s commands cannot save us for we cannot save ourselves through our good works.
And if we obey with mere human effort without depending on the Spirit, we probably are not TRULY obeying God. Why? Because God looks not only at the PHYSICAL ACT of obedience (though that is extremely important), but also the motive. Are living to honor, love, and worship God?… or are we living only to build up ourselves?
~~~
God’s blessings in THE BLESSINGS OF ABRAHAM cover EVERY AREA OF LIFE, and God does want us to FULLY experience the FULLNESS of our salvation.
Romans 5 (NKJV)
17
For if by the one man’s offense death reigned through the one, much more those who receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness will reign in life through the One, Jesus Christ.)
Sin and the curse came into the world, and all men are under the curse, because Adam opened the door for the curse by his disobedience, laziness, and stepping outside proper bounds.
Through the ABUNDANT PROVISION of GRACE and RIGHTEOUSNESS in the Lord Jesus — we ARE ABLE TO REIGN IN LIFE.
Jesus comes to bring the BLESSINGS OF ABRAHAM to us as we yield to, and daily trust in Him.
Galatians 3 (NKJV)
13
Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law, having become a curse for us (for it is written, “Cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree”),
14
that THE BLESSING OF ABRAHAM
might come upon the Gentiles in Christ Jesus, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.
26
For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus.
27
For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ.
29
And if you are Christ’s, then you are Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.
~~~
THANK GOD we are made righteous ONLY through faith in Christ. THANK GOD that no matter what illness, persecution, or problem is against us… WE ARE MORE THAN CONQUERORS THROUGH CHRIST WHO LOVED US!
It all comes down to BEGINNING a personal relationship with God WHEN WE REPENT AND RECEIVE CHRIST AS SAVIOR AND LORD…
and when we MAINTAIN a STRONG, PERSONAL, AND VITAL relationship with God through Jesus through PRAYER AND OBEDIENCE.
Matthew 4
4
“Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds out from the mouth of God.”
Obedience does NOT save us. HOWEVER, it will enable us to enter into the FULLNESS of God’s blessing for us as we love and worship Him.
Otherwise, even Christians will suffer for disobedience.
Romans 8 (Amplified)
13
For if you live according to [the dictates of] the flesh, you will surely die. But if through the power of the [Holy] Spirit you are [habitually] putting to death (making extinct, deadening) the [evil] deeds prompted by the body, you shall [really and genuinely] live forever.
Vance

======= Vance:

GRACE IN DEUTERONOMY 28
Deuteronomy 28 (NKJV)
9
“The LORD will establish you as a holy people to Himself, just as He has sworn to you, if you keep the commandments of the LORD your God and walk in His ways.
As I re-read this, it occurred to me that this verse was saying, in effect, that IN OUR ACT OF OBEDIENCE TO GOD, we are to GIVE OURSELVES TO HIM.
Obedience is to be AN ACT OF WORSHIP AND SURRENDER to the Lord.
“The LORD will establish you as a holy people to Himself, just as He has sworn to you, if you keep the commandments…”
or
“… AS you keep the commandments…”
This seems corroborated by this verse in Deuteronomy 28 (NKJV):
14
So you shall not turn aside from any of the words which I command you this day, to the right or the left, TO GO AFTER OTHER GODS TO SERVE THEM.
~~~
If obeying the Father is an act of worship and surrender, then DIS-obeying the Father is an act of worship and surrender to false gods.
~~~
THIS RELATES WELL TO what the Lord Jesus said:
Luke 11 (NKJV)
23
He who is not with Me is against Me, and he who does not gather with Me scatters.
24
“When an unclean spirit goes out of a man, he goes through dry places, seeking rest; and finding none, he says, ‘I will return to my house from which I came.’ 25
And when he comes, he finds it swept and put in order. 26
Then he goes and takes with him seven other spirits more wicked than himself, and they enter and dwell there; and the last state of that man is worse than the first.”
~~~
JUST OBEYING BECAUSE IT IS THE “MORAL” OR “RIGHT” THING to do without being FILLED with the Spirit of Jesus and His Word will leave humans open to demonic, lie-based control.
WE NEED THAT PERSONAL RELATIONSHIP WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT!
Am I practicing the Presence of God? Am I continually living dependent upon and in the Presence of Jesus?
1.
All to Jesus I surrender;
all to Him I freely give;
I will ever love and trust him, in His presence daily live.
Refrain:
I surrender all,
I surrender all,
all to Thee, my blessed Savior, I surrender all.
2.
All to Jesus I surrender;
humbly at His feet I bow,
worldly pleasures all forsaken; take me, Jesus, take me now.
(Refrain)
3.
All to Jesus I surrender;
make me, Savior, wholly Thine;
fill me with Thy love and power; truly know that Thou art mine.
(Refrain)
Vance

Deuteronomy 26:1-27:26 + Luke 10:38-11:13 + Psalm 76:1-12 + Proverbs 12:15-17
~ Click here to read today’s Scripture on Bible Gateway ~
~ Listen to today’s Scripture with Tom Dooley’s terrific NLT 1996 readings at this link or The ESV Bible: OT + NT + Psalms + Proverbs ~

Old Testament – Later this year in the One Year Bible when we read Galatians, you’ll note that Paul powerfully references today’s readings in Deuteronomy chapter 27 verse 26:  “‘Cursed is anyone who does not affirm and obey the terms of these instructions.’ And all the people will reply, ‘Amen.'” One of the best things we can ever do when studying the Bible is simply let Scripture interpret Scripture.  So here we go on Galatians chapter 3 verses 10 through 12: “But those who depend on the law to make them right with God are under his curse, for the Scriptures say, “Cursed is everyone who does not observe and obey all the commands that are written in God’s Book of the Law.”  So it is clear that no one can be made right with God by trying to keep the law. For the Scriptures say, “It is through faith that a righteous person has life.” This way of faith is very different from the way of law, which says, “It is through obeying the law that a person has life.””  How do these verses from Galatians speak to you?  Do you agree that we cannot be made right with God by trying to keep the law?  Do you think the way of faith is very different from the way of law?

As we’re in the Easter/Good Friday season, let me continue on with a few more verses here from Galatians chapter 10, continuing with verses 13 and 14: “But Christ has rescued us from the curse pronounced by the law. When he was hung on the cross, he took upon himself the curse for our wrongdoing. For it is written in the Scriptures, “Cursed is everyone who is hung on a tree.” Through Christ Jesus, God has blessed the Gentiles with the same blessing he promised to Abraham, so that we who are believers might receive the promised Holy Spirit through faith.”  Has Jesus rescued you from the curse pronounced by the law?  Do you believe that Jesus took upon himself the curse for your wrongdoing?  Have you received the promised Holy Spirit through faith?

Today in Deuteronomy chapter 26 verses 1 & 2 we read about the offering of first fruits: “When you arrive in the land the LORD your God is giving you as a special possession and you have conquered it and settled there, put some of the first produce from each harvest into a basket and bring it to the place the LORD your God chooses for his name to be honored.”

New Testament – Today in Luke chapter 10 we read about Jesus visiting Mary & Martha and Martha becoming upset with Mary for sitting at Jesus’ feet and not helping her work in the kitchen.  To which Jesus says to Martha in verses 41 & 42 – “But the Lord said to her, “My dear Martha, you are so upset over all these details! There is really only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it–and I won’t take it away from her.”  What do you think is the one thing worth being concerned about Jesus is referring to?  Is this really the only one thing you are concerned about in your life today?  Or are you possibly being distracted by other “details”?

How often do you pray the Lord’s Prayer?  Once a day?  Once a week?  Once a month?  Think this would be a good prayer to pray regularly, since Jesus himself taught us to pray it?  Bible.org’s commentary on Luke chapter 11’s readings today titled “Teach Us How to Pray” is at this link.

Psalms – I love Psalm 76 verse 4’s reflection on God! “You are glorious and more majestic than the everlasting mountains.”  I wonder how often we look at nature and forget that God created nature?  I think so often we can look at a beautiful sunset or a mountain or a forest or an ocean and temporarily forget that God created these beautiful things.  If God created these beautiful things, then doesn’t it stand to reason that God is more glorious and more majestic than all of his created things?  I’ve said this one before on this blog:  before I believed in Jesus or really even God, I honestly think I was evangelized by creation.  Meaning – I would look at a starry night with my friends and say things like, “How could there be so many stars up there like that and there not be a God?  Things like that can’t just happen by chance!”   Praise God for his creation that was evangelizing me toward Him!  Has creation ever evangelized you?  Do you think creation might be able to evangelize your friends who do not yet know God?  Let us pray that we don’t ever end up worshiping creation instead of the Creator.  Let us be impressed and thankful and admire creation – but let us give the glory and the worship to the Creator, God, who is more glorious and more majestic than the everlasting mountains…

Proverbs – Proverbs 12 verse 15 teaches us today:  ““Fools think they need no advice, but the wise listen to others.”  This is a great opportunity for each of us to ask ourselves whether we think we need no advice or whether we are open to listening to others…

Worship Video:  Today’s readings remind me of Third Day’s song “Soul on Fire:”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=giuLT8UUO-U

Are you a soul on fire? Click here for Fire!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on a verse of Scripture today: “He said to them, “When you pray, say: “‘Father, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come. Give us each day our daily bread. Forgive us our sins, for we also forgive everyone who sins against us. And lead us not into temptation.” Luke 11:2-4 NIV

Prayer Point: Pray the Lord’s Prayer daily. Pray for God’s Kingdom to come and His Will to be done. Pray for your daily bread. Pray for the forgiveness of your sins. Pray that you will forgive others. Pray that you will not be led into temptation.

Comments from You & Questions of the Day:  Based on Luke chapter 10’s readings on Mary and Martha today, did you personally identify more with Mary, who sat at Jesus’ feet, or Martha, who became upset because of her busyness?  Which one of the two would you like to identify with more?  Do you think that sometimes as Christians we can get too busy and miss out on spending time at the feet of Jesus?  Will you examine your daily schedule and look for ways that you are “overbooking” yourself, and thus missing out on quiet time with the Lord?  Will you resolve to be more like Mary and spend some quality time with Jesus – particularly during this Easter season?  Also, what verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings?  Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 – Download a schedule of our Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

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BLOG READERS HISTORICAL COMMUNITY COMMENTS:
(our Group Bible Study is below! : )

======= Ramona:

Deuteronomy 26-27:26
The first verse of today’s reading jumped out at me, 1″When you arrive in the land the LORD your God is giving you as a special possession and you have conquered it and settled there,
God gave them but they had to conquer and settle: God gave them, they were to conquer … In other words, they had to get busy.
Jesus stated in Luke 12:32 (Amp), Do not be seized with alarm and struck with fear, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom!
Too often when God has blessed us in circumstances, with favor, with jobs and other situations we think that everything is suppose to be fall into place; however, God had given Israel the Promise but they had to conquer and settle. The command to Adam back in the garden was, “Be fruitful and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it; have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over every living thing that moves on the earth.” (Genesis 1:28). If everything was under and submitted to Adam, God would not have had to tell him, “subdue.” [1. bring under forcible control: to bring a person or group of people under control using force]. Even if we use “subdue” in the context of softening as lets say clay, to soften clay one must mold and apply pressure.
Luke 10:38-11:13
Nina has brought up a wonderful observation regarding Martha and Mary’s attitude in the 10th chapter of Luke. So often we run around like chickens with our heads cut off trying to do things for Jesus and God when what we really need to do is sit at the Master’s feet and hear His Words. I believe when we have been fed spiritually with the Words of Life we will know how to go about the Master’s business efficiently and effectively.
I thank God for Mike for establishing this Blog so that like-minded folks who want to get into the Word of God, and His son Jesus, have a place to discuss what we have read.
Funny how Martha is busying herself to prepare a meal for Jesus who is the Bread of Life for all men and women, so that she can feed Him when the best meal, eternal life and living water, will come from Him. Funny how Martha is concerned about feeding a man who took a couple of fish and some small loves of bread, a meal prepared for a little boy by his mother, and fed 5,000 men, plus woman and children. Funny how Martha is concerned about creating a fabulous atmosphere of fine dinning for the one who Created the universe (John 1:3)
Even in teaching the disciples how to pray and using the example of a friend showing up late at night asking to borrow some loaves of bread brings into play that Jesus, the Bread of Life is willing to feed us if we but just knock, seek and ask. He is not like the friend who gives in and gives the bread only because of the persistence of the man knocking and to keep the friend from waking up his children, Jesus gives because He loves us. We don’t have to ware Him out.
Proverbs 18:24: A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.
And that friend is Jesus
Psalm 76:1-12
10 Human opposition only enhances your glory,
for you use it as a sword of judgment
Reading this particular verse causes me to ask the question, “If man cannot prevail against God, then what should our role in society be when those who oppose God do 1) Godless acts, and 2) implement policies that are against our faith? I know that the only person I can control is me, we can’t even control our children especially when they grow up. If that is the case shouldn’t I act in such a way that my behavior contrasted against the godless not only stand out and separate me from the godless but also be a light in a dead and dying world?
Do I get all worked up about the choices others make that our against my beliefs and values while what I believe and value lies hidden under a cloak of secrecy because I’m operating as an under-cover-Christian? How will the unbeliever know what to choose, life or death, if I’m not walking as a representative of Jesus’ life and light?
I have a lot of things to think about.
Proverbs 12:15-17
17 An honest witness tells the truth; a false witness tells lies. This is such a profound statement. When someone makes dealing in untruth a lifestyle, why do we think they will tell the truth if we ask them too? Jesus said out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks (and the body acts—my addition) (Luke 6:45).
Lying is a product of fear! We lie because we fear the consequences of our behavior or fear how others will think of us if they find out the truth of who we really are.
Grace and peace,
Ramona

======= Nina:

I’m struck by the relationship between the OT and Gospel passages. Surely Martha felt that she was following the sort of precepts set in Deuteronomy, throwing herself into her work to do what is right and good for the Lord. But Mary was the one who truly “built an altar” to the Lord by sitting at his feet and listening. I read somewhere recently that as Christians, it’s imperitive that we look at all of the Bible through the lens of the Gospels, and if we do so here, I think we see that the discipline imposed on the Israelites was not about the work that they did, but rather a tool designed to keep their minds and hearts centered on God above all.
Nina

======= Dan:

Prov 12:15.
Plenty of fools in my world!
I think we are encouraged by our pride, (and society’s expectations) to not ask for advice, particularly from people we know, cause we are sure to lose face (or so we are led to believe) the moment we open our mouths to ask a question!
But the truth in this passage remains, I see the fools not asking for advice, giving unsolicited advice and not questioning the nature of their world and beliefs.
Dan

====== Reuben:

Luke 11:8 “…if you keep knocking long enough, he will get up and give you what you want…” After the Reformation most Proptestants discarded spiritual practices such as chanting “arrow prayers” ie. short phrases repeated over and over like a mantra. Orthodox blievers, however, maintained the tradition of the Jesus Prayer. The litle book “The Way of a Pilgrim” describes the Scriptural bases of “praying without ceasing”. If you reapeat “Lord Jesus Christ, have mercy on me” (Mat 15:22)constantly… you’ll receive the bread of life Jesus promised the disciples who “knock long enough”. Amen!
Reuben

======= Luch:

I like how LUke 10:38-11:13 form a helpful unit. Not only does Jesus teach that “there is really only one thing worth
being concerned about” 10:42, He also shows us in Luke 11:1ff what that ‘one thing’ is–could it be that the one thing to focus on in our ‘structured’ prayer times Is God’s honour and God’s Kingdom?? I also found it interesting that even though we are told to ‘pray without ceasing’ which implies one never stops praying, I think Jesus is much more practical and helpful. It actually says in Luke 11:1 that “Jesus had been out praying, and one of his disciples came to him as he ‘finished’ and then asked Jesus to teach them how to pray just as John taught his disciples to pray. It seems that in this case anyways, prayer has a ‘start’ time and an ‘end time.” We saw this in Luke 5:16 where when Jesus was being pressed upon by many people’s needs it says “But Jesus often withdrew to the wilderness for prayer.” Again, in Luke 6:12 “one day soon afterward Jesus went to a mountain to pray, and he prayed to God all night.” And then in Luke 9:18 “One day when Jesus was alone, praying…”
Wow, does this example of Jesus impress anyone else out there? If Jesus who was God incarnate, God in flesh, had this huge need to pray, how much more do I need to create space in my day to pray, to focus on ‘the one thing’ and to make sure The name of God and the kingdom of God have priority in my prayer thoughts. What i love about jesus’ word in Luke 10 in commending Mary is that he says, “Mary has discovered it…” All true learning comes when we personally discover it, and it sticks with us.
Luch

======= Sandy:

Luke 11: “Lord,teach us to pray just as John taught his disciples…” One encouraging thought: as we are humble learners from those who walk closely to God (John and his followers), we are watched and imitated by others (Jesus’ followers). “Go, therefore, and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them ..and teaching them to OBSERVE (obey) all that I commanded you.” Matt. 28:19,20.
I’m sure most of Jesus’ prayer life was fellowship with His Father, enjoying His presence. This, in my mind, is what attracted Jesus’ disciples–a close, loving relationship is always attractive to those around it. The disciples wanted in on this closeness, this intimacy with the best Friend of their closest friend.
Sandy

======= Emily:

As for the creation being the tool of evangelism, I have always believed in it. My own conversion started from observing stars, rain, storms and scenic beauty of nature. But even Paul mentions it so very eloquently. He says, creation itself is the proof of the existence of God, so people have no excuse for rejecting God. Here is the verse:
Romans 1:19:20 ”… since what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them.For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse.”
Emily

======= Kitty:

When I have a close look at my daily schedule, I realise that I spend way too much time on the internet, and thus missing out on quiet time with the Lord sometimes.
Also, being an activity driven person, I have always been more like Martha than Mary. I get busy, and distracted quite easily!
God has been reminding me repeatedly to learn from Mary, and just spend quality time at the feet of Jesus.
I will be going away this Holy Week and Easter, and I am committed to spending more quality time with Jesus as I reflect on HIS death and resurrection!
Kitty

======= Jenny:

Wow, I really love the blog, I havent gotten to my readings yet but I’m touched by the points you made. I love all the Galatians verses. Amen! My former Pastor used to always say, the law isnt there so that we might keep it, but to show us that we cant keep it! I think its important that we dont spend too much time trying to focus on keeping the law, cause then we miss the point. We then become reliant on our works, our righteousness and we have none! we only have Christ’s righteousness imparted to us! Some people sit and say they try and keep the laws, but if we focus on Christ, are reborn and follow the guidance of the holy spirit in our lives, then we dont have to worry about those things. we shouldnt be a slave to that. we need to live in the spirit and not in the flesh. I went through a phase where I tried to be “good” and i became miserable. God finally sat me down and said, your free, your righteous works are filthy rags to me. The more we just focus on the Lord, read His word and are filled with the spirit, we will be more Christ-like and not have to fake being good. Does that make sense? A great book I recommend to anyone struggling with self-righteousness or just a great book for everyone is called: “Why Grace Changes Everything” by Chuck Smith.
I recommend Romans 8 to anyone, here’s part of it, i think v. 1 is my favorite verse!:
Romans 8:1-4: “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death. For what the law was powerless to do in that it was weakened by the sinful nature, God did by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful man to be a sin offering. And so he condemned sin in sinful man, in order that the righteous requirements of the law might be fully met in us, who do not live according to the sinful nature but according to the Spirit.”
Creation totally testifies to me. whenever I see something beautiful, I just think, wow, the Lord created that! If anyone has been to the Grand Canyon, thats one place you experience such an awe! I went there years ago, and I’d seen pictures and movies with it so i wasnt expecting to be all impressed, but wen i saw it, i nearly fell to my feet in awe and it just screamed God’s glory! i wasnt thinking too much of God before that, but when i saw it I had such a visual testimony of God’s greatness and I was overwhelmed! It just screamed: God created this! breathtaking!!
I never thought of that before tho, good point, He is more glorious and majestic then things He created…and He made creation to testify to man of Him. I remember one night, i was at the beach alone and just looking at the vast ocean, listening to the waves, thinking about how huge and deep the ocean is and looking at the stars and this feeling came over me that I am so tiny in this universe and just this powerful testimony of God’s greatness and my inferiority. The complexity and vastness of the universe is mind-boggling!
Jenny

======= Rachel:

“How often do you pray the Lord’s Prayer? Think this would be a good prayer to pray regularly, since Jesus himself taught us to pray it?”
Yup. I started praying the Lord’s Prayer regularly and searching out the meaning in it. We talk to someone according to Who they are, so I figured Jesus’ prayer could tell us a thing or two about the Father. It does–amazing things. I wrote a book on the subject :).
Rachel
Author of “Heart to Heart: Meeting With God in the Lord’s Prayer”
http://www.littledozen.com/h2h.html

======= Pat:

My thoughts this morning on Luke 11: 1-13:
I love reading and saying the Lord’s Prayer in Luke 11:2-4. It is so simple and direct and gives us the role model for all our prayers – praise God first, ask for God to meet our needs next, ask for forgiveness of our sins and ask God to give us the ability to forgive others, and finally to ask God for the strenth and wisdom to face and overcome the temptations that life and Satan lay on our doorstep.
However, I also love the scriptures that follow in 11:5-13. I refer to these scriptures often. It teaches us to be persistent and keeping on praying for the things we need and want but be patient and not expect instant miracles. God is going to answer our prayers but in His own way, in His time frame, and in the manner that He knows is best for us in the long term. I think many times when we pray we have the tendency to tell God what to do, when to do it, and how to do it, instead of just putting it in God’s hands and letting Him take charge. We have to go to God in humble prayer knowing we don’t have all the answers but He does and He loves us that He will answer our prayers in a loving and protecting way.
I thank you precious Savior for reminding me again about these aspects of prayer!
God bless!
Pat

======= Debra:

The Picture of Christ as they were nailing him to the cross is heart breaking, I mean I am greatful that He died on the cross for my sins, just makes me want to worship him and follow his commands.Although I am not perfect, to see such a wonderful sacrifice Jesus did makes me want to try and do more for those I come in contact with.
Thank you Jesus for dying for my sins, and showing me how I should live and treat my fellow man. Amen
Debra

======= John:

“Evangelized by Creation?” Sure! Psalm 19:1-4a says:
1 The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.
2 Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they display knowledge.
3 There is no speech or language where their voice is not heard. [a]
4 Their voice [b] goes out into all the earth, their words to the ends of the world.
Romans 1:18-20 indirectly references this:
18The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of men who suppress the truth by their wickedness, 19since what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them. 20For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse.
How can we look at the marvels of nature around us and not believe in the Creator, or not want to learn more about him?!
John

======= Greg:

Personally, I think one of the best things I do to focus and sit at the feet of Jesus is when I can get away and play/sing music that speaks to the wonderful character of our God and His Son.
When contemplating creation and the creator, I recommend Steven Curtis Chapman’s song “Much of You”
Greg

======= Bob:

Luke 10: Mary and Martha. I would venture a guess that their house was clean enough to be healthy and cluttered enough to be comfortable. I also like the fact that Jesus doesn’t really say Martha is wrong being busy, its just that Mary’s choice is better. Which leads nicely into the secret of handling life that is given to us in Philippians 4:4 Most of all, friends, always rejoice in the Lord! I never tire of saying it: Rejoice! 5 Keep your gentle nature so that all people will know what it looks like to walk in His footsteps. The Lord is ever present with us. 6 Don’t be anxious about things; instead, pray. Pray about everything. He longs to hear your requests, so talk to God about your needs and be thankful for what has come. 7 And know that the peace of God (a peace that is beyond any and all of our human understanding) will stand watch over your hearts and minds in Jesus, the Anointed One.
8 Finally, brothers and sisters, fill your minds with beauty and truth. Meditate on whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is good, whatever is virtuous and praiseworthy. (The Voice)
Bob

======== Joyce:

Mike,
Thank you for leading us in today’s reading!
Luke 10:40-42
40 But Martha [overly occupied and too busy] was distracted with much serving …
41 But the Lord replied to her by saying, Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things;
42 There is need of only one or but a few things. Mary has chosen the good portion [that which is to her advantage], which shall not be taken away from her. (Amplified Bible)
What a reflection of modern day people – overly occupied and too busy, and distracted with serving, or other things in life.
May this passage remind us that there is need of only one or but a few things, which is to our advantage.
We have much to learn from Mary “who seated herself at the Lord’s feet and was listening to His teaching.” (Luke 10:39 Amplified Bible).
Gratefully,
Joyce

======= Dee:

Deuteronomy 26:1-27:26 + Luke 10:38-11:13 + Psalm 76:1-12 + Proverbs 12:15-17
Chapter 26 of Deuteronomy
The time has come for the Israelites to take the land that was promised to them. A land flowing with milk and honey. The Israelites, who were once slaves, are now free. Once, they were nothing particular in their eyes. Now, they are God’s peculiar people. They are set apart for this purpose and this God-given right.
We must sometimes be reminded of who we are and belong to.
Chapter 27 of Deuteronomy
The laws and the covenant are going forth. The Israelites are building an altar in God’s Holy Name. I find the distinction between where the tribes stand, who is doing the blessings, and who is doing the curses interesting.
27:13 says, “And these shall stand upon Mount Ebal to curse; Reuben, Gad, Asher, Zebulun, Dan, and Naphtali.”
Reuben-who slept with his father’s wife, and
Dan-his tribe will be known as the “judges” in the future
I think it’s interesting how God will bring all things to a head, and the things that were a curse to you in the past, the past will teach and use towards healing and helping others. Sometimes, we get called to do based on our callings and gifts. Sometimes, a lot of times, we don’t choose; it is selected for us to serve us best.
Luke 10:38-42 I am a mixture of Martha and Mary. I want to be immersed at Jesus’ feet, soaking every word. However, I would like to be a good hostess, as well. I worry a lot, and Jesus tells us not to worry. He tells us to major in significant things, not minor things.
Luke Chapter 11:1-13
I love how Jesus answers his disciples’ questions. They asked, “How do you pray?” He very carefully instructed them on prayer. That’s important. Jesus knew the importance of prayer and communicating with the Father. Shouldn’t we?
Psalm 76:1-12 This sounds like a remembrance of the deliverance of the Israelites leaving bondage and their Exodus (in verse 6), in which the Egyptians were cast into the sea.
Proverbs 12:15-17 A wise man seeks wise counsel. I intend to do that, and I want to listen more and talk less.
Dee

======= Ramona:

Deuteronomy 26:1-27:26
I love this section of Deuteronomy ‘cause here I found some principals: When you …then you do …then I (God) will … God can do whatever He wants; He can bless whoever and whatever He wants, He doesn’t need our help. Yet God …He chooses to invite us to cooperate with Him. That is awesome.
The command to gather on the two mountains, Gerizim and Ebal with, I presume, a valley in between (Yeah though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death …) amplifies Proverbs 18:21. The power of our words and the agreement the words we speak not only affirm blessings and curses but hold us accountable for what we speak. If we do/keep God’s commands there are blessings that flow because of the law of cause and effect; if we don’t curses appear.
Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof. (Proverbs 18:21 KJVR)
Grace and peace,
Ramona

======= Vance:

Comments on Deuteronomy:
The Holy Spirit through Paul said this in Galatians 3 (NKJV):
10
For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse; for it is written, “Cursed is everyone who does not continue in all things which are written in the book of the law, to do them.” [QUOTING, Deuteronomy 27:26]
~~~
This shows that Deuteronomy is STILL VERY RELEVANT to every person today.
Being human, I understand why — from a human point of view — no one likes to admit the reality of sinning against God or the reality that our human goodness will never make us acceptable to God.
THAT IS NEVER THE BASIS of our acceptance by God the Father.
The KEY to our acceptance by God is also found in Galatians 3 (NKJV):
13
Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law, having become a curse for us (for it is written, “Cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree”,
14
that the blessing of Abraham might come upon the Gentiles in Christ Jesus, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.
22
But the Scripture has confined all under sin, that the promise by faith in Jesus Christ might be given to those who believe.
26
FOR YOU ARE ALL SONS OF GOD THROUGH FAITH IN CHRIST JESUS.
27
For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ.
29
And if you are Christ’s, then you are Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.
~~~
It strikes me that A VERY UNIQUE ASPECT, and perhaps A KEY FEATURE of the Christian faith is YOU AND I CAN HAVE A REAL, PERSONAL RELATIONSHIP WITH THE LIVING GOD.
~~~
The other day I was speaking with a very nice young man named Mikel who is part of a faith called Falun Dafa. It has its roots in Chinese Buddhism, but has some unique features to it.
Mikel gave me a video celebrating the Chinese New Year that members of Falun Dafa participated in.
*
I WAS SURPRISED by the mention of receiving wisdom and revelation from a divine being from the heavens. I was thinking Buddhism was simply about meditating and focusing inward.
*
I WAS ALSO SURPRISED that part of the Chinese New Year celebration included an evil red dragon that needed to be killed by swordsmen. In the book of Revelation, the Holy Spirit shows us that the devil, the great deceiver of mankind, is a RED DRAGON.
~~~
However, no matter the similarities between Buddhism or Falun Dafa, THERE IS ONE NOTABLE AND DISTINCT DIFFERENCE: In Buddhism and Falun Dafa, the high God is unknowable, though that deity sends wisdom to follow.
** IN THIS CONTEXT, Mikel mentioned to me that there can be levels of teachers and divine beings between men on earth and the high God. Mikel thought that Christ was the same — simply a mediator between God and man.
HOWEVER, I MENTIONED TO HIM THAT, though Christ IS the mediator between the high God and man, JESUS HIMSELF IS THE HIGH GOD REVEALED TO MEN.
And through the Lord Jesus, WE CAN KNOW THE HIGH GOD PERSONALLY !
I John 3 (Message)
1
What marvelous love the Father has extended to us! Just look at it–we’re called children of God! That’s who we really are. But that’s also why the world doesn’t recognize us or take us seriously, because it has no idea who he is or what he’s up to.
Vance

======= Jim:

How often do you pray the Lord’s Prayer?
THE JEWISH PRAYER OF SHEMA
Listen, O Israel! The LORD our God, the LORD is One.
Then softly, “Blessed is the Name of His glorious kingdom for all eternity.”
You shall love the Lord Your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your resources.
Let these matters that I command you today be upon your heart. Teach them thoroughly to your children and speak of them while you sit in your home, while you walk along the road, when you retire, and when you arise. Bind them as a sign upon your arm and let them be frontlets between your eyes. And write them on the doorposts of your house and upon your gates.
And it will come to pass that if you continually listen to the commandments that I command you today — to love the Lord your God, and to serve Him, with all your heart and with all your soul — then I will provide rain for your land in its proper time, the early and late rains, that you may gather in your grain, your wine, and your oil. And, I will provide grass in your field for your cattle and you will eat and be satisfied.
Beware lest your heart be deceived and you turn to serve other gods and worship them. Then the wrath of God will blaze against you. He will restrain the heaven so there will be no rain and the ground will not yield its produce. And you will perish quickly from the land that God gives you.
So, place My words on your heart and soul and bind them for signs on your arms and as frontlets between your eyes. Teach them to your children and continually discuss them while you sit at home, when you walk together, when you retire, and when you arise. And you shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates. In order to prolong your days and the days of your children upon the land that God promised your ancestors that He would give them as long as the days that the heavens are over the earth.
And the Lord spoke to Moses, saying “Speak to the children of Israel and say to them they should make themselves fringes on the corners of their clothing throughout their generations, and give the fringe of each corner a thread of blue. And, they shall be fringes for you so that when you look at them you will remember all of the Lord’s commandments and do them and not follow after your heart and after your eyes, which lead you astray. Do this in order to remember and do all My commandments and be holy for your God. I am the Lord, Your God who led you from the land of Egypt to be a God to you. I am the Lord, your God.” Adonai is truth.
BACKGROUND TO THE SHEMA
The Shema (Hebrew for “Listen” and is the first word of the prayer) is one of the two most important Jewish prayers (along with the Amidah). Before going to sleep, the first two lines of the Shema is always recited by a Jew as the paramount verse to ward off evil. This is a direct commandment from the Bible (Deuteronomy 6:6–7), alluded to in verses such as “Commune with your own heart upon your bed” (Psalms 4:4), is the first verse taught to a Jewish child, as well as the ideal deathbed confessional. For example, five members of a Dutch family were part of the fifteen deaths in the Sbarro Pizza bombing in Jerusalem. The father had managed to reach over and just hold the hand of his 4-year old son as the two of them lay bleeding, burning, and dying. Spoken together, their last words were heard to be the Shema.
It is traditionally spoken more audibly than the Amidah (which follows) since the Shema reaffirms the most important tenets of Judaism (traditionally, one imparts a kiss from lips to doorpost with fingertips, where the first six words hang, every time one enters their home). The Shema is a declaration of faith, a pledge of allegiance to One God. The Shema speaks of loving God, learning the Bible, and passing on the tradition to one’s children. It so serves to remind Jews of their duty to serve as witnesses to God’s sovereignty by leading exemplary lives and to speak of His Word at every opportunity. The cry of “Shema Yisrael” (Listen, O Israel) has always symbolized the ultimate manifestation of faith in the deadliest of situations (concentration camps).
The idea that God (and all) is one runs contrary to the earlier Zoroastrian (origin of all modern religions; and, at the time Christ, followers were known as the Magi, meaning astrologer) doctrine of dualism, which propounds the idea of two conflicting powers — good and evil (common to other religions). The Shema is specifically spoken with one’s eyes closed (as in death) to symbolize striving for an understanding upon death of how even the “bad” in our lives were actually for the “good.” To love with our “heart” means to love with our emotional desires, to love with our “soul” means to love specifically in our worst moments (to death), and to love with all our “resources” means to love even with our money. As the Torah traditionally progresses a series from easiest to hardest, does this suggest we love money more than life?
In Nevada, in fact, hotel room windows are always built to open no more than a crack to stop people who have lost all their money from jumping out and additionally losing their seemingly less important lives. The oral Jewish traditions also speak of a man walking through a thorny field who pulled up his pant legs so that even though his legs were torn up, his pants were saved. Finally, Machiavelli noted in “The Prince” that people are likewise generally more affected by the lose of property than by the lose of their father.
The Shema is also quoted in the New Testament (many of the patriarchs, of course, referenced it: Moses used it in his farewell address). The Gospel of Mark 12:28-30 mentions that Jesus considered the Shema the beginning exhortation of the first of his two greatest commandments. “One of the teachers of the law came and heard them debating. Noticing that Jesus had given them a good answer, he asked him, “Of all the commandments, which is the most important?” “The most important one,” answered Jesus, “is this: ‘Listen, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. 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: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’”)
Jesus also refers to the Shema in The Gospel of John 10:30. A group of Jews in the Temple in Jerusalem at the Feast of Dedication, or Hanukkah, asks him if he is Messiah, the anointed one of God. Jesus concludes his response with the words “I and my Father are one” (NIV). This is an allusion to the Shema, which any Jew would immediately recognize. In addition, the apostle Paul reworks the Shema into 1 Corinthians 8:5-6 for the risen Christ:
“For even if there are so-called gods, whether in heaven or on earth, as truly there are many ‘gods’ and ‘lords’, yet for us there is but one God, the Father, from whom all things came and for whom we live; and there is but one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom all things came and through whom we live.”
BACKGROUND TO THE AMIDAH
After building the second temple, the Great Assembly created the Amidah, which means “standing” or testifying for God (just as testimony is always given standing in a Jewish court) and it is recited while facing and bowing to Jerusalem – the gateway to heaven (the Muslims copy this form). Again, the Amidah is one of the two most important Jewish prayers (the other being aforementioned Shema ). And, it intentionally includes the three praise, petition, and thanksgiving aspects of all prayer. While the Amidah is now thought of only as a prayer, however, the most ancient sources regarded it more as a meditation. The Talmud confirms this and even adds that the patriarchs would recite it for an entire hour. People today may complain the constant repetition (done three times a day to coincide with the times for offerings as it wholly replaced the offerings when the temple was destroyed in 70AD as per Hosea’s prophecy) is tedious, but anyone familiar with mantra meditations would recognize just the opposite. The Amidah was by design essentially a formula for a lifelong mantra for raising the people to a higher level of reflective consciousness (Jewish Meditation, Kaplan, pp 44-46). The guideline of praying by quietly moving one’s lips without anyone else hearing comes from Hannah’s behavior while praying in the Temple to bear a child.
The Amidah is begun by taking three steps forward (into the presence of God, sometimes after taking three steps backward out of the material world) and is finished with three steps backward (just as one would part from an altar or Rabi) while saying “He who makes peace in the heavens, may He make peace for us all. And, let us say, Amen.” On Sabbath eve, after the congregation has read the Amidah silently, the reader repeats the following:
Shield of the patriarchs by His word, reviving the dead by His command, the holy God to whom none is like; who caused His people to rest on His holy Sabbath-day, for in them He took delight to cause them to rest. Before Him we shall worship in reverence and fear. We shall render thanks to His name on every day constantly in the manner of the benedictions. God of the acknowledgments, Lord of Peace, who sanctified the Sabbath and blesses the seventh day and causes the people who are filled with Sabbath delight to rest as a memorial of the work in the beginning of Creation.
THE AMIDAH
1. THE GOD OF HISTORY (Avot):
Blessed (bend knees) are You (bend forward), O Lord (stand) our God and
God of our fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of
Jacob, the great, mighty, and revered God, the Most High God who bestows
loving kindnesses, the Creator of all, who recalls the good deeds of the
patriarchs and who brings in love a redeemer to their children’s children
for his name’s sake. O king, helper, savior and shield. Blessed (bend knees)
are You (bend forward), O Lord (stand), the shield of Abraham.
2. THE GOD OF NATURE (Gevurot):
You, O Lord, are mighty forever, You are the Reviver of the
dead, only You have the power to save. [From the end of Sukkot until the
eve of Passover, insert: You cause the wind to blow and the rain to fall.]
You sustain the living with loving kindness, You revive the dead with great
compassion, You support the fallen, heal the sick, set free the bound, and
keep faith with those who sleep in the dust. Who is like You, O Master of
mighty deeds? Who compares to You, a king who puts to death and restores
to life, and brings forth salvation? And You are certain to revive the dead.
Blessed are You, O Lord, who revives the dead.
3. SANCTIFICATION OF GOD (Kedushat HaShem):
You are holy and Your Name is holy,
and Your holy ones praise You every day.
Blessed are You, O Lord, the God Who is holy.
[Reader] We will sanctify Your name in this world just as it is sanctified in the highest heavens, as it is written by Your prophet: “And they call out to one another and say:
[Cong.] ’Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory.’“ [Isa. 6:3]
[Reader] Those facing them praise God saying:
[Cong.] ”Blessed be the Presence of the Lord in his place.” [Ezek. 3:12]
[Reader] And in Your Holy Word it is written, saying,
[Cong.] ”The Lord reigns forever, your God, O Zion, throughout all generations. Hallelujah.” [Ps. 146:10]
[Reader] Throughout all generations we will declare Your greatness, and to all eternity we will proclaim Your holiness. Your praise, O our God, shall never depart from our mouth, for You are a great and holy God and King. Blessed are You, O Lord, the holy God. You are holy, and Your name is holy, and holy people praise You daily. (Selah.) Blessed are You, O Lord, the God who is holy.
4. PRAYER FOR UNDERSTANDING (Da’aat):
You show favor to those with knowledge, and You teach
understanding to those who are mortal. Be gracious to us;
a mind of understanding and insight is from You.
Blessed are You, O Lord, Who favors us with knowledge.
5. FOR REPENTANCE (Teshuvah):
Return us, our Father, to Your Word;
draw us near, our King, to serve You.
Restore us to Your presence in complete repentance.
Blessed are You, O Lord, who desires repentance.
6. FOR FORGIVENESS (Selichah):
Forgive us, our Father, for we have sinned;
pardon us, our King, for we have rebelled; for You pardon and forgive.
Blessed are You, O Lord, who is merciful and always ready to forgive.
7. FOR DELIVERANCE FROM AFFLICTION (Geulah):
Behold our affliction and champion our cause,
and redeem us quickly for Your name’s sake.
Blessed are You, O Lord, the redeemer of Your people who fight with God.
8. FOR HEALING (Refuah):
Heal us, O Lord, and we will be healed;
save us and we will be saved. May it be Your will, for You are the one we praise, to send complete healing from heaven with spiritual healing and physical healing for all our ailments [you may interject one who is ill as a child of someone among the patients of His people],
for You, God of our forefathers, are a faithful and merciful healer.
Blessed are You, O Lord, the healer of the sick among His champions.
9. FOR DELIVERANCE FROM WANT (Birkat Hashanim):
Bless this year for us, O Lord our God.
Grant a blessing on the earth for our welfare
just as You have always sustained us with Your bounty.
Blessed are You, O Lord, who blesses all time.
10. FOR GATHERING OF EXILES (Kibbutz Galuyot):
Sound the great trumpet for our freedom,
raise a banner to gather those who were exiled,
and gather Your people from the four corners of the earth. Blessed are You,
O Lord, who gathers the scattered of Your people who fight with God.
11. FOR THE RIGHTEOUS REIGN OF GOD (Birkat HaDin):
Restore our judges and advisors to us as in earlier times.
Remove our sorrows and troubles. We want You,
O Lord, to rule over us with kindness and compassion;
and, You to justify us in judgment. Blessed are You, O Lord,
the King who loves righteousness and justice.
12. FOR THE DESTRUCTION OF APOSTATES AND
THE ENEMIES OF GOD (Birkat HaMinim):
[This 19th blessing was added after the destruction of the second Temple. An error in the other blessing would be forgiven, but not in this one.]
Let there be no hope for intolerant and false believers;
let all their wickedness instantly perish.
May we soon see all Your enemies become
cut down, scattered, crushed, and humbled.
Blessed are You, O Lord, who defeats enemies and humbles sinners.
13. FOR THE RIGHTEOUS AND PROSELYTES (Tsaddikim):
Let Your compassion arise, O Lord our God,
upon the righteous, the devout, the elders of Your people,
the remnant of their scholars, the righteous proselytes, as well as
upon ourselves. Provide a good reward to all who truly trust in Your name;
and, include us forever with those who unashamedly put their trust in You.
Blessed are You, O Lord, the stronghold and assurance of the righteous.
14. FOR THE REBUILDING OF JERUSALEM (Binyan Yerushalayim):
Return in mercy to Your city Jerusalem,
and dwell within it as You have promised.
May we soon see You rebuild it as an eternal structure
and quickly establish within it the throne of David.
Blessed are You, O Lord, the builder of Jerusalem.
15. FOR THE MESSIANIC KING (Malkhut beit David):
“I will set one of your sons on your throne for all time. I chose Zion to be My home forever and I’ll shower blessings on the pilgrims who come here if your descendents stay true to my Covenant and live as I teach.” (Psalm 132:11-18)
May the offspring of Your servant David quickly flourish
and may You prosper and be exalted in Your saving power,
a victory in which we hold hope for all time.
Blessed are You, O Lord, who causes salvation to flourish.
16. FOR THE ANSWERING OF PRAYER (Kabbalat Tefillah):
Hear our voice, O Lord our God; and have pity and mercy upon us.
And, accept our prayer in mercy and favor,
for You are a God who hears prayers and supplications.
Do not turn us away from Your presence empty-handed,
for You hear the prayers of Your people with compassion.
Blessed are You, O Lord, who hears prayer.
17. FOR RESTORATION OF TEMPLE SERVICE (Avodah):
Accept us, O Lord our God, and receive our prayers.
Restore the service of Your house and accept in love
our offerings as well as our praises, petitions, and thanksgivings.
Let our worship always please You.
And let our eyes see You return in mercy to Zion.
Blessed are You, O Lord, who restores His presence to Zion.
18. THANKSGIVING FOR GOD’S UNFAILING MERCIES (Hoda’ah):
We give thanks, O Lord our God, for You alone are the God of our fathers.
Through every generation You have been the rock of our lives and the shield
of our salvation. We will give You thanks and declare Your praise for our
lives that are committed into Your hands, for our souls that are entrusted
to You, for Your miracles that are daily with us, and for Your wonders and
Your favors that are with us at all times, evening, morning and afternoon.
O Good One, Your mercies are never exhausted and Your loving kindness
never ends. We have put our hope in You. For all these things we bless
and exalt Your name forever. And, every living thing shall confess You
forever and praise Your Name in truth, O God of our salvation and our help
forever. Blessed (bend knees) are You (bend), O Lord (stand),
“The Good One” is Your name, and to You it is fitting to give thanks.
19. FOR PEACE (Sim Shalom):
Grant peace, goodness, blessing, grace, kindness, and mercy upon us
and upon all Your people. Bless us, our Father, all of us as one,
with the light of Your face (for You have given us the light of Your face),
O Lord our God, the book of life, love, kindness, righteousness,
blessing, compassion, life, and peace. And, may it please You
to bless Your people at all times with Your peace. Blessed are You,
O Lord, who blesses His people who fight with god with peace.
(Bow to the left) He who makes peace in the heavens, (bow forward, toward Jerusalem) may He make peace for us all (stand up). And, let us say, Amen.
Jim

======= Kim:

there is so much in the Lord’s prayer! I use it frequently and am often challenged by the words “forgive us …. as we forgive others”. no easy task most of the time, but if we are to be right with God, then we must be right with those around us too. it is very easy to rattle the Lord’s prayer off quickly because we know it well, but if we really start thinking about what we are saying – our prayer life might be turned around.
thanks Jim for the Jewish prayers – i found those most interesting and look forward to perusing them at a later time.
Kim

Deuteronomy 23:1-25:19 + Luke 10:13-37 + Psalm 75:1-10 + Proverbs 12:12-14
~ Click here to read today’s Scripture on Bible Gateway ~
~ Listen to today’s Scripture with Tom Dooley’s terrific NLT 1996 readings at this link or The ESV Bible: OT + NT + Psalms + Proverbs ~

Old Testament – There are quite a few miscellaneous and interesting regulations in our readings today!  🙂  All in all, very good advice of course.  Deuteronomy chapter 25 verse 4 tells us this wise advice – “Do not keep an ox from eating as it treads out the grain.”  I think it is quite fair for an ox to eat while he’s working!

 

New Testament – Luke chapter 10 verse 20 is an incredible teaching from Jesus for us to heed even today – “But don’t rejoice just because evil spirits obey you; rejoice because your names are registered as citizens of heaven.”  I do think that sometimes we rejoice over the wrong things – secondary things.  The primary thing is our relationship with Jesus.  And then there are secondary good things that perhaps we do or are involved with in the Kingdom.  But, don’t rejoice over those.  Rejoice that you are in an eternal relationship with Jesus Christ.  That is the one thing that matters.

 

Today in Luke chapter 10 verse 21 we read – “At that time Jesus, full of joy through the Holy Spirit, said, “I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children. Yes, Father, for this was your good pleasure.” What a great opening line – Jesus, full of joy through the Holy Spirit! In your life today – are you full of joy through the Holy Spirit? Do you want to be? I read a great commentary from the One Year Bible companion on this verse with this wonderful Q & A – “What was Jesus’ relationship to the Holy Spirit? Jesus was conceived by the Holy Spirit, baptized by the Holy Spirit, anointed by the Holy Spirit, guided by the Holy Spirit, empowered by the Holy Spirit, and filled with the Holy Spirit. He lives in union with the Holy Spirit, and was dependent upon the Holy Spirit.” What is your relationship with the Holy Spirit today? Are you dependent upon the Holy Spirit in your life?

If you are interested in studying more about the Ministry of the Holy Spirit in our lives please check out these incredible commentaries from Bob Deffinbaugh at Bible.org on the Holy Spirit –
https://bible.org/seriespage/36-ministry-holy-spirit-john-1612-33 
https://bible.org/seriespage/putting-pentecost-perspective-part-2-holy-spirit-gospels-acts-21-13 
https://bible.org/seriespage/putting-pentecost-perspective-part-1-holy-spirit-old-testament-acts-21-13

Today we read the famous story of the Good Samaritan.  This story always convicts me to ask myself – “Who is my neighbor?”  Who is your neighbor?  Below is a painting from 1890 by Vincent van Gogh titled “The Good Samaritan”:

Bible.org’s commentary on our Luke chapter 10 readings today titled “The True Source of Joy” is at this link and commentary titled “The Good Samaritan” is at this link.

Psalms – Psalm 75 verse 7 is so powerful and so true… I need to hear this over and over again – “It is God alone who judges; he decides who will rise and who will fall.”  You and I do not judge.  Well, we might try to judge, but it’s all in vain if we do.  And we risk turning judgment onto ourselves when we do.  God alone judges.  God alones decides who will rise and who will fall.  We do not.  God is God.  We are not.  This is a very good thing to always remember! 🙂  We should also always remember we are so not this man below when it comes to other people’s hearts or eternal destinies… 

Proverbs – Proverbs chapter 12 verse 14 is a beautiful Proverb – “People can get many good things by the words they say; the work of their hands also gives them many benefits.”  I think it is safe to say that we should speak and work and there will be benefits!  🙂  It is true I think that work is a very good thing.  I’m sure you’re probably like me at times and dream about winning the lottery.  This seems like it would be ideal.  We wouldn’t have to work.  We could just do what we wanted.  Trust me – this would be a curse.  We need work.  I think it blesses us immensely to work.  And indeed it gives many benefits – and not just $.  The benefits include confidence and skills and friendships and socialization and this list could go on.  The work of our hands gives us many benefits.  Forget the lottery.  You don’t want that trouble.  🙂  Let us get to work!

Worship Video:  Today’s readings reminded me of Matthew West’s awesome song “Don’t Stop Praying:”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8r0eA49MZ0w

Have you stopped praying? Click here and pray!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on a verse of Scripture today: “However, do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.” Luke 10:20 NIV

Prayer Point: Pray and rejoice if your name is written in heaven through your saving faith in Jesus Christ’s life, death and resurrection. Pray that you will not rejoice that spirits submit to you, but that you will rejoice in Christ alone.

Comments from You & Questions of the Day:  Based on Luke chapter 10 verse 20 above, have you ever literally rejoiced because your name is registered as a citizen of heaven?  If not, will you take a moment to do so now?  Do you think in our lives today we actually think more about being citizens of this world or of heaven?  Where is our heart when it comes to where we think our citizenship truly lies?  Are you looking forward to the day when the false citizenship of this world is no longer a distracting issue and you fully realize that you are a citizen of heaven?  Also, what verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings?  Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 – Download a schedule of our Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 – I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!

BLOG READERS HISTORICAL COMMUNITY COMMENTS:
(our Group Bible Study is below! : )

======= Ramona:

Deuteronomy 23-25:19
I have gone through these three chapters about four times trying to get a change of focus but I’m stuck on verses two and three of the 23rd chapter.
2″Those of illegitimate birth and their descendants for ten generations may not be included in the assembly of the LORD.
3″No Ammonites or Moabites, or any of their descendants for ten generations, may be included in the assembly of the LORD.
I realize that we are operating under a new covenant but I can’t help think that there is something more here than meets “my” eye because of what little I know of the scriptures.
“Assembly of the LORD,” what is it? Is this considered all of Israel (actually Israel as well as spiritual), or is this leadership, elders of the religious community or political or possibly both? I’m going through the Bible using the One Year Bible and these two verses in Deuteronomy 23 have arrested my attention.
I know that Ruth, Naomi’s daughter-in-law was a Moabite and she was David’s grandmother (1 Chronicles 2:10-13) so how does that fact fit in with what the third verse of Deut 23 states? I’m thinking that all of this, verse 2 and 3 has something to do with lifestyle choices and that is what causes you to be Israel and or a Moabite. Judah produced two sons out of wedlock and by his daughter-in-law (Gen. 38) Tamar who were in Jesus’ lineage. And yes I know that this discretion happened before the Law was given to Moses. Also one of Israel’s judges, Jephthah was born out of wedlock (Judges 11). So what does this all mean?
Funny how we get stuck on things that seem to make no sense, but I’ve learned if I stuck on something God is trying to show me something or at least trying to get me to see things from a different perspective.
Deuteronomy 25:
17 “Never forget what the Amalekites did to you as you came from Egypt. 18 They attacked you when you were exhausted and weary, and they struck down those who were lagging behind. They had no fear of God. 19 Therefore, when the LORD your God has given you rest from all your enemies in the land he is giving you as a special possession, you are to destroy the Amalekites and erase their memory from under heaven. Never forget this!
Again here is something that flies in the face of forgive and forget. And yes I know that we are under a different covenant; however, in the fourth verse of chapter 23 God commands Israel to behave differently toward the Egyptians, who held them in bondage, and the Edomites, descendents of Esau. I’m still thinking that there is something in the way each of these mentioned nations have chosen to conduct their society that determines Israel’s treatment of them. I do know that all of the mentioned nations worshiped a multitude of gods. So I think that each nation’s character must have something to do with how Israel interacts with them. I think I’m focused on this because this might have implications for us today.
Luke 10:13-37
In Luke 10 this conversation is recorded, 25 One day an expert in religious law stood up to test Jesus by asking him this question: “Teacher, what must I do to receive eternal life?”
26 Jesus replied, “What does the law of Moses say? How do you read it?”
One of the reasons why I love going through the scriptures for myself is because God has invited me too. Jesus asked this religious expert, “How do you read it?” In short He was telling the man, just as he tells us today, “Don’t’ give me what someone else’s has said, tell me what you think?” Throughout scripture God has invites us to dialogue with Him out His Word. And if we are truly seeking truth, when we are wrong about reading a scripture, God will engage us in dialogue. He won’t slap us silly, He want call us neither stupid nor “dingbat.” I know this for a fact because He has lovingly engaged and corrected me.
“Come now, and let us reason together, says the Lord. Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall be like wool. (Isaiah 1:18)
Most of the time our understanding of the text is right is just our application may be off.
Psalm 75:1-10
1 We thank you, O God!
We give thanks because you are near.
People everywhere tell of your mighty miracles.
Sometimes I invite myself to my very own pity party and I think at work, at play or wherever, that I’m the only bible believing Christian and I’m in the midst of a “bunch of heathens.” That is a lie. This text tells me that there are people everywhere talking about God and what He has done. I’m just not listening because I’m focusing on little ole me and thinking I’m all that and a bag of chips!
Proverbs 12:12-14
14 People can get many good things by the words they say; the work of their hands also gives them many benefits.
This seems to be just another way of saying we reap what we sow.
Grace and peace,
Ramona

======= Peggy:

My thoughts about, What is my relationship with the Holy Spirit? He is my everything. I depend on the Holy spirit to guide me, to protect my mind, to control my tongue. I would me nothing without the Holy Spirit in my life. Have a blessed day
Peggy

======= Hal:

Jesus said tells us to recognize people and identify them for what they do in Matthew 7:16-20. I will type it all out but please do not think that I am disputing what you are saying. I am just noting that Jesus tells us to be wise as serpents and as harmless as doves. We are to use wisdom and His discernment to again recognize where a person’s heart truly is. And there is clearly a difference between judging someone and just calling out a false prophets/ name tag christian/ antichrists for who they truly are. It talks about in 2 Tim 3:5 it talks about people who have a form of godliness but deny its power. And then it ends saying, “have nothing to do with them.” So we have to use judgement to recognize those that this scripture talks about, but not saying, “oh, you’re going to hell.”
Matt 7:16-20
16Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?
17Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit.
18A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit.
19Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.
20Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them
God bless you and have a great day
Hal

======= Pam:

Do I ever rejoice! I will be so glad (glad doesn’t come near to expressing it – but can’t think of another word right now..) when we will be able to dwell in our true home as citizens of heaven.
Many times a good Samaritan has come to my aid, and many times I have been the good Samaritan regarding physical needs. As it pertains to the spiritual, I see this parable as being the duty of Christians to reach the lost with the Gospel. So many lost souls are beaten down and forgotten- left to perish eternally because too many “Christians” are not following Jesus. He told us to do as He did. Not simply sit back and rejoice that our names are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life, but to Make it our greatest endeavor to reach the lost – at the point of their need. At times the lost are not a pretty sight: poor, sick, depressed, addicted, homeless, rebellious, etc.. We can not simply walk along the other side of the road. Love is getting our hands dirty (putting our self to work kind of dirty, not plunging into sin kind of dirty) and caring enough to lift the lost up on the donkey (I use my car to pick them up – but a donkey will do :), carry them to safety (church, Bible study, an honest conversation at your own dinner table, etc..), nurse their wounds (pray with them, disciple them, cry with them, help them find the help they need whatever the situation, etc..) and be committed to their continued sound health by treating them like Jesus would have us to do!
At least that is how I see it…
Pam

======= Kitty:

Yes I have not only rejoiced because my name is registered as a citizen of heaven. More so, I find it extremely joyful to see others as citizens of heaven. I rejoice in seeing others giving their hearts to the Lord!
Kitty

======= Jenny:

I love Luke 10:21!!…my pastor talked about it once and it just blessed my heart!! Jesus saw the excitement of the 70 and it rejoiced Him. He thanked God for hiding these things from the proud, wise-in-their-own eyes ppl, but revealed knowledge to the simple, childlike. I cant explain it, but that verse just blesses me.
Interesting Jesus used a Samaritan in his example as the ‘good guy’ bcos Jews and Samaritans didnt get along or have dealings with each other.
Of course I know where my citizenship is.. I know all true believers have that deep down LONGING in their soul to be Home…this deep feeling in our soul that it doesnt belong here, that Homesickness we feel. Its like my soul just groans to be where my citizenship is!
Det 25:11-12, haha! remind me never to defend my husband in a fight.
Jenny

======= Laura:

So i wanted to share with you all what we are doing at our church. We SOAP every day,
S- find Scripture that really comes out and speaks to you
O- what is your observation of that scripture
A- how will you apply it to your life
P- Prayer
This has helped me a lot really reflect on the words i have been reading over the last few months with you guys. I am very grateful for this blog.
God Bless you all
Laura

======= Renee:

I don’t usually like to post negative comments, but your comments on work seem to deal only with work outside of the home. What about people who work in the home? I think what they do is very beneficial, and I don’t think they are harmed by being able to do what they want. I think the family really benefits by someone staying home and doing the housework. I may be misinterpreting what you mean, and if that is true I am very sorry.
Renee

======= Debra:

working inside the home is hard work , and filled with opportunity to minister and so many more things.
Debra

======= Frederick:

The consistency of the Bible
1) Deuteronomy 23:1 & Nehemiah 2:1 & 6:10-11
1 No one who has been emasculated by crushing or cutting may enter the assembly of the LORD.
1 In the month of Nisan in the twentieth year of King Artaxerxes, when wine was brought for him, I took the wine and gave it to the king. I had not been sad in his presence before,
6:10-11
10 One day I went to the house of Shemaiah son of Delaiah, the son of Mehetabel, who was shut in at his home. He said, “Let us meet in the house of God, inside the temple, and let us close the temple doors, because men are coming to kill you—by night they are coming to kill you.”
11 But I said, “Should a man like me run away? Or should someone like me go into the temple to save his life? I will not go!”
Nehemiah, who was the cupbearer of king should be an eunuch and so he later refused to enter the Temple because of the regulation as stipulated in Deuteronomy 23:1
2) Deuteronomy 24:19-22 & Ruth 2:
19 When you are harvesting in your field and you overlook a sheaf, do not go back to get it. Leave it for the foreigner, the fatherless and the widow, so that the LORD your God may bless you in all the work of your hands. 20 When you beat the olives from your trees, do not go over the branches a second time. Leave what remains for the foreigner, the fatherless and the widow. 21 When you harvest the grapes in your vineyard, do not go over the vines again. Leave what remains for the foreigner, the fatherless and the widow. 22 Remember that you were slaves in Egypt. That is why I command you to do this.
Ruth 2:2-3 & 2:8-9
2 And Ruth the Moabite said to Naomi, “Let me go to the fields and pick up the leftover grain behind anyone in whose eyes I find favor.”
2 Naomi said to her, “Go ahead, my daughter.” 3 So she went out, entered a field and began to glean behind the harvesters. As it turned out, she was working in a field belonging to Boaz, who was from the clan of Elimelek.
8 So Boaz said to Ruth, “My daughter, listen to me. Don’t go and glean in another field and don’t go away from here. Stay here with the women who work for me. 9 Watch the field where the men are harvesting, and follow along after the women. I have told the men not to lay a hand on you. And whenever you are thirsty, go and get a drink from the water jars the men have filled.”
So Boaz was doing Deuteronomy 24:19-22 to Ruth.
3) Deuteronomy 25:2-3 & 2 Corinthians 11:24
2 If the guilty person deserves to be beaten, the judge shall make them lie down and have them flogged in his presence with the number of lashes the crime deserves, 3 but the judge must not impose more than forty lashes. If the guilty party is flogged more than that, your fellow Israelite will be degraded in your eyes.
2 Corinthians 11:24
24 Five times I received from the Jews the forty lashes minus one.
Paul was beaten forty lashes minus one (also originated from the OT, Deuteronomy 25:2-3)
Frederick

===== Antonietta:

Deuteronomy 25: 5-10 stood out to me today. The laws of a Levirate Marriage.I am trying to visualize having to marry my brother in law in a case like this.That would be really hard if you are not attracted to each other in the first place.The law says out of respect for a marriage with a male child or a child the brother must marry the widow and have a child with her. By doing this she is able to remain part of the family.If the brother in law refuses to marry her she removes his shoe and spits in his face.She is now open for the next in line within the family to marry her I am thinking of the book of Ruth as I write this Boaz and Ruth.
Antonietta

======= Joe:

I do look forward to the days our citizenship no longer matters in this world. I look forward to a day, that my citizenship is under a ruler who loves me, shows grace, and guides me through his love. It will be a good day indeed. A citizen of a place that has no greed, self interest, hate. The scripture that stood out to me today is to what it really means to love your neighbor. Jesus provided us such a clear example of what this means in the story of the Samaritan. Often so many times, I drive or walk by those in need. It seems today, that so many are in need and I become blind to it. The bible and its words is so great and often convicting. I thank the lord that we have it.
Joe

======= Greg:

The reading in a Psalms reminds me of the great Steven Curtis Chapman tune “God is God”
Greg

======= Bob:

Deuteronomy: So, what are we to do with all of these Old Testamant Laws? Interpreting and applying them is quite a challenge. Some are apodictic or non negotiable so to speak. These are like the 10 commandments. Most are casuistic, dependent on a particular situation but it still becomes quite a job to make the hermeneutical meaning apply to us today. I think the key is to read the law through the eyes of Jesus. His law comes from his teaching and work of atonement. It goes much deeper and looks at the heart of the individual. Case in point is to look at another woman lustfully is to commit adultery. This means we need to ascertain the spirit of the law and not the letter of the law.
Bob

======= Jill:

I believe in good work ethics! Although balance is good. Raised where one doesn’t idle time. Theres many verses on that. But now I cant Although I spend time in the word and reading this blog and doing Bible Studies. ButnThank God for a day of rest!
I have a question . So people who come upon money in an easy way who don’t have to work? What’s that? How about someone who choses not to work so they live off unemployment? I know God is the judge but somewhere there has to be a balance. I know I would rather work for all the reasons you gave Mike. They were excellent points.
Thank God I can work and get out to share with others and use all those gifts he has given me. All we do is for the glory of God!
Jill

======= Jane:

Proverbs 12:14 really spoke to Me. I
Love working! I clean houses and work in the
Kitchen at a school. Don’t make much there but enjoy the social part and keeping busy and interaction with others! God doesn’t want us to idle time. He also wants us to work as if we are working for him. Doesn’t matter what you do. In Gods eyes it’s huge. Cleaning toilets, salesman. Farmer. Nurse. Minister we are all significant to Him!
Jane

======== Dee:

65 glorious verses of Deuteronomy 23:1-25:19
Ch 23:1-“He that is wounded in the stones, or hath his privy member cut off, shall not the enter into the congregation of the Lord.” I have many unanswered questions when reading the Bible; however, I usually get revealed to me as I keep reading. However, looking at this verse first, I realized these were my thoughts.
–I understand that to enter or be sacrificed, there must be no blemish or defect-however, just to enter the congregation-his privy member off his private part? Or right finger or what?
Then Ch 23:2 gave some insight: bastard shall not enter. This is for non-covenant children born in sin or not in covenant at the time.
-This was probably established because many Israelites were going against the Jewish custom and marrying outside their family and outside their religion.
Chapter 24:1-4
“When a man hath taken a wife, and married her, and it comes to pass that she find no favor in his eyes because he hath found some uncleanness in her: then let him write her a bill of divorcement, and give it in her hand, and send her out of his house.
2″And when she leaves his house, she may go and be another man’s wife.
3″And if the latter husband hate her, and write her a bill of divorcement, and giveth it in her hand, and sends her out of his house; or if the latter husband die, which took her to be his wife;
4″Her former husband, which sent her away, may not retake her to be his wife, after that she is defiled; for that is an abomination before the Lord: and thou shalt not cause the land to sin, which the Lord thy God giveth thee for an inheritance.
–my commentary–don’t judge please.. just pondering thoughts
-This was always strange to me: man can despise a wife-send her away for a bill of divorce, she remarries, and if he divorces or dies, she can’t remarry the first husband again, because she was defiled, but wasn’t the 1st her husband in the 1st place-and I know she has been with the other husband-what if it wasn’t her fault or there was no guilt on her part-how is it okay for a new husband to marry even though she is defiled by husband 1 and 2, but going back to original husband is? I’m probably going too deep, however, I never would want to do anything that is an abomination unto the Lord, so I would steer clear, and to tell you the truth, if my former husband dismissed me due to a detestable thing (which could be a mole, or sterile, or whatever), I wouldn’t want to go back there in the first place anyway.. just a little too Jerry Springer for me! haha
Chapter 24, verse 16, explains that fathers’ guilt should not be passed on to their children, and likewise, children’s guilt should not be used to punish their parents. Amen!
Luke 10:13
Just a thought-to be spoken over my life like these disciples were about whom he was and comin gin whose name-v16: He that heareth you, heareth me; and he that despiseth you despiseth me; and he that despiseth me despiseth him that sent me.
I like to look up who the authors are in Psalms.
For instance, who is Altaschith? this means “Do not destroy”
This is a Psalm or Song of Asaph(A prominent Levite singer)
Twice in verse one: “Give thanks.”
v6 For promotion cometh neither from the east, nor from the west, nor from the south-God is the judge
putteth down one setteth up another
Proverbs 12:12: The root of the righteous yieldeth fruit.
The just shall come out of trouble.
v14: People get many good benefits (things) by the words they say, the work of their hands; also gives them many benefits.
Dee

======= Ramona:

Deuteronomy 23:1-25:19
God is a God of order, decency, decorum and respect, a true gentleman through and through. How He is is how we are to treat others, with dignity, integrity and respect whether poor, widowed, orphaned or foreign. None is to be taken advantage of even the people who do not look like you or me. Now, this God I like. No, that is not right, this is a God I can love.
Grace and peace,
Ramona

Deuteronomy 21:1-22:30 + Luke 9:51-10:12 + Psalm 74:1-23 + Proverbs 12:11
~ Click here to read today’s Scripture on Bible Gateway ~
~ Listen to today’s Scripture with Tom Dooley’s terrific NLT 1996 readings at this link or The ESV Bible: OT + NT + Psalms + Proverbs ~

Old Testament – It is interesting to read about the cleansing for an unsolved murder in Deuteronomy chapter 21.  I think God makes it crystal clear here that murder is such a horrible crime that affects the entire land and community.  The Ten Commandments are obviously clear on “do not murder.”  These verses in Deuteronomy go into a bit of what happens to the land when one is murdered.  Interesting to think about these verses on murder – and then realize that Jesus, whose blood was wholly innocent, was murdered on a cross.  Was Jesus’ murder unsolved?  Who is guilty for this murder of Jesus?  Whose sins put Jesus on the cross?  Thankfully, whose sins does Jesus’ blood cover?  Who does Jesus rescue and redeem through His innocent blood shed on a cross?

Deuteronomy chapter 22 has various rules & regs, including sexual purity.  It makes sense that there needed to be rules & regs for 1 million+ Israelites wandering in the desert for 40 years – and for them as they are now about to enter the Promised Land.  Essentially, these rules & regs kept the peace.  But, hopefully more than that, they kept the Israelites minds & hearts focused on God and not on sin.  I think the rules & regs for sexual purity are obviously still so needed today.  Our culture can take us quickly into the depths of sexual impurity.  Depths that are so dark – even though the culture doesn’t tell you about the darkness of sexual impurity as it is selling you the shiny lie.  Sexual sin unchecked is incredibly dangerous.  If you are struggling with it, please flee.  Run to God and Jesus.  Humble yourself in confession & repentance.  And allow Jesus to heal & transform you.  Sexual purity is something we must pursue diligently each and every day.  Don’t start to go down any slippery slopes.  It gets dark quickly….

New Testament – Luke chapter 9 has a couple of challenging teachings for us from Jesus in verses 60 & 62 – “Let those who are spiritually dead care for their own dead. Your duty is to go and preach the coming of the Kingdom of God… Anyone who puts a hand to the plow and then looks back is not fit for the Kingdom of God.” How do these verses speak to you?  Today verse 62 is standing out to me – once we start our Christian journey we should not look back toward the life we left behind.  At least not in a way where we wish we were back in that old life.  Once Jesus rescues us, we are now His forever.  We have put our hand to the plow.  We will preach the coming of the Kingdom of God in the way we live our lives.  We should not look back longingly toward our old life.  It is behind us.  Have you set your hand to the plow?  And are you looking straight ahead joyfully?

Continuing this agricultural / farming theme – in Luke chapter 10 verse 2 today we read this teaching from Jesus to the disciples – “These were his instructions to them: “The harvest is so great, but the workers are so few. Pray to the Lord who is in charge of the harvest, and ask him to send out more workers for his fields.”

Bible.org’s commentary on Luke chapter 9 readings titled “Conflicting Commitments” is at this link and commentary on chapter 10 readings titled “When Personal Evangelism is Inadequate” is at this link.

Psalms – Psalm 74 dates from the time of the exile when the Promised Land was in shambles and the temple destroyed by neighboring nations.  This is very evident by the verses we read in this Psalm.  In light of this, I absolutely love the plea in verse 22 – “Arise, O God, and defend your cause.  Remember how these fools insult you all day long.”  And as we will read later in the Bible this year, God indeed will arise to defend his cause!

Below is an image for verses 13 & 14 of this Psalm: “You split the sea by your strength and smashed the sea monster’s heads. You crushed the heads of Leviathan and let the desert animals eat him.”

Proverbs – Proverbs 12 verse 11 is so true on quite a few levels – “Hard work means prosperity; only fools idle away their time.”  I have been thinking about this “idling away time” issue recently.  I know that I idle away and waste a lot of time in my life.  And I know the Enemy wants us to waste time.  The Enemy wants us to be distracted.  The Enemy does not want us to work hard on things that are pleasing to God.  The Enemy does not want the Kingdom of God to be prosperous.  And if we buy into all of this that the Enemy tries to sell us each and every day, then indeed we are fools.  Don’t buy into the Enemy’s Fool’s Gold!

Worship Video:  Today’s readings reminded me of the Terrian song “Honestly, we just need Jesus:” 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3eNdX4GbtbE

Do you need Jesus? Click here and meet Him!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on a verse of Scripture today: “He told them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.” Luke 10:2 NIV

Prayer Point: Pray that you will ask Jesus to send you out into His harvest field. Pray that you won’t sit out the Great Commission that Jesus is calling you to in this life.

Comments from You & Questions of the Day:  Back to Luke Chapter 10 verse 2 above – Do you believe that the harvest is great?  Do you pray to God to send out more workers for his fields?  Are you one of those workers?  How are you participating in the harvest?  If you’re not participating in the harvest in some way, will you pray to God to show you where He would have you participate in the harvest?  Also, what verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings?  Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 – Download a schedule of our Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 – I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!

BLOG READERS HISTORICAL COMMUNITY COMMENTS:
(our Group Bible Study is below! : )

======= Ramona:

Deuteronomy 21-22:30
21 Then all the men of the town must stone him to death. In this way, you will cleanse this evil from among you, and all Israel will hear about it and be afraid. …23 …Do not defile the land the LORD your God is giving you as a special possession.
The idea that the land under our feet is affected by our sins was first introduced in Genesis when Cain killed his brother Abel (Genesis 4:10), and God told Cain that the voice of his brother, whom he killed, cried out from the ground. No fewer than nine verses speak about the effects of sin upon the earth eight in the Old Testament and one in the New (Numbers 35:33,34; Psalms 106:38; Isaiah 24:5; Jeremiah 2:7; 16:18 Ezekiel 36:17,18 Romans 8:22). In Leviticus we came across three verses that speak about the land vomiting out its inhabitants because of sin and wickedness (Leviticus 18:25,28 & 20:22)
My question is how much, if any, are the climatic changes, drought, torrential rain, earthquakes caused by our sin? Geologist and meteorologist may point to shifting plates under the earth and changing air currents above the earth, sun spot activity and such like but are our sins, the sins we allow to happen the true cause? I have wrestled with asking God’s forgiveness for someone who has sinned against a family, a community and country never fully understanding why this was something God commanded; but, I think I have been given understanding of why. Their sins, my sins effect and affect the earth. The earth cries out for justice and desires to be cleansed for filth that we, humans, God’s folks commit upon the land that God created.
Forgiveness; repentance, even for the sins of others; restoration and the activity we do to obtain, release and confer it on others is a gift that we are to give freely because forgiveness is what we need to do because it effects and affects the very ground we walk on.
Thank you Mike for your comments they helped me to further understand and see the power of forgiveness and repentance of and from sin.
I’ve been thinking that every law God gave, every decree to not do something is not given because God doesn’t want us to have fun, but it is because he wants us to enjoy life and have fun that He gives us these laws. We sin because we lack godly Wisdom to see further down the road of our sinning toward sins consequences. And because we don’t want to see the effects we pretend they are 1) none or 2) we disconnect the effects from the cause taking on the role of children who have not learned how to think abstractly. So when the consequences come to fruition we scratch our heads and say, “How did that get there!” or we try to blame it on something or someone else. We must, I must learn to look down that road because truthfully sin is pleasurable, for a season and only for a season, but the payment extracts a payment that we can never pay off. Once we move from hating the consequences of sin to hating sin itself then we will stop.
Luke 9:51-10:12
54 When James and John heard about it, they said to Jesus, “Lord, should we order down fire from heaven to burn them up?”
I love this passage because it shows me that Jesus loves the loud mouths too, we have a purpose. Yes, we need to control ourselves. But Jesus loved them and even gave them a nickname, “Sons of Thunder.” (Mark 3:17). Let’s hear it for the “big mouth” folks.
Following Jesus costs us something (Luke 9:57-62). Free doesn’t mean cheap, inexpensive may not mean value and expensive doesn’t mean quality.
Proverbs 23:23 (Amp)
Buy the truth and sell it not; not only that, but also get discernment and judgment, instruction and understanding.
John 14:16 (NIV)
Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.
Jesus is the Pearl of Great Price that once found we should sell everything we have to obtain Him.
Psalm 74:1-23
1 O God, why have you rejected us forever?
Why is your anger so intense against the sheep of your own pasture?
I’m don’t know what the literary style of writing that is used in the Psalm is called but I do know that it seems to remind God of what the enemy has done and what He has promised to do to Israel’s enemy. Yet although it appears to be reminding a forgetful God, in reality it is reminding the writer and reader of the adversities of the past and how God intervened and delivered. What God has done in the past He will continue to do because He doesn’t change.
It is good to rehearse in our memory and in our own hearing our past trials and troubles to remind us of the outcome. Since God doesn’t change we know that what He did in the past He will do in the future.
Proverbs 12:11
Idling away ones time may not mean one is just sitting around doing nothing. It can also mean one is doing something that is outside of their God given purpose. We can be busy but ineffective because we are doing things outside of our assignment. Kind of like a athlete who has been ability and training of a golfer but decides to take that training and do the job of a Quarterback. He is idling his time on the wrong field and in the wrong sport, and he may get killed by the defense line.
Grace and peace,
Ramona

======= Duane:

Reading Ramona’s comments on the consequences of sin was right on. The sin that all of us have dealth with whether past or present must become a stench in our eyes if we expect to move forward. It is not enough to hate the consequences, you must come to the point that you hate , hate the sin. God wants us to be holy. We must pray and examine ourselves everyday and ask the Lord to show us if inquity is living in us. I do not want anything in my life to hinder my testamony to a lost and dying world.
Duane

======= Luch:

There are some challenging issues raised in Deuteronomy. I must say that I love most parts of the book of Deuteronomy. It’s one of the books that Jesus quoted from the most. However, for all the years that I have read the OYB I have never found a reasonable explanation for what is happening in the section on what to do when they go to war and capture women. (Deut 21:10ff) On the one hand, believers are not supposed to be
‘unequally yoked’ with unbelievers but verse 11 says, “And suppose ou see among the captives a beautiful woman, and you are attracted to her and you want to marry her. If this happens, you may take her to your home, where she must shave her head, cut her fingernails, and change all her clothes….After that you may marry her.” This is a “heh, what’s going on here passage?”. As Christians we spend a lot of time exhorting people not to be ‘unequally yoked’. Is this passage saying something different? What is the timeless principle here that we should abide by? I realize that parts of the Deuteronomic code we choose to obey and follow. For example we all follow the commands to care for the poor, etc, but what about this one? Any thoughts out there? The LORD God must have had something else in mind that we can’t appreciate with our finite minds. I know that as my sons and Christians I am mentoring read these passages they ask very sincere questions about verses like this. I honestly don’t have a simple answer. Maybe there isn’t one.
Perhaps the one main timeless principle is that People are made in the image of God, and human life is precious in His sight. People, including captives of war, are not to be treated like animals or things, and the laws in deuteronomy 21 illustrate this truth.
Luch

======= Ramona:

Luch,
Hmmm, let me see. You stated:
> … have never found a reasonable explanation for what is happening in the section on what to do when they go to war and capture women. (Deut 21:10ff) On the one hand, believers are not supposed to be ‘unequally yoked’ with unbelievers…>
What we are suppose to do, God’s Perfect Will, and what we end up doing, God’s Permissive Will—if it is even that, has always been a big problem with man. As you know if we do not keep our “sin-nature,” our flesh, under control, we will allow our fleshly desires and attractions to rule our spirits. So, as a reader of the OYB by habit, you know that from Genesis through Revelation man lives on the side of God’s Permissive Will much more than His Perfect Will. If we study the words that begin many of the sentences in today’s readings the word “if” pops up a multitude of times.
Paul, in his first letter to Timothy states this:
Knowing this, that the law is not made for a righteous man, but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for sinners, for unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers, (1 Timothy 1:9 KJVR)
The laws were given because God’s people, even those declared righteous by the shed blood of Jesus Christ, don’t always behave in a manner that is righteous.
Ramona

======= John:

Luch,
I have read that in that era before a battle women would dress to be attractive to their captors.
The rest is my conjecture:
A man sees a women all decked out and has feelings for her and takes her to his abode. The thirty days seems like a cooling off period. It allows her to mourn for dead relatives, and with all the fine clothes, nails and hair removed – the man sees her over time in her natural state.
He may get to know her as a person, or it may just allow for his testosorene level to come down from the initial meeting.
Since slaves were an asset and increased net worth, it may also give time for the man to consider the ramifications of what happens if a “marriage” does not work out. Since a failed marriage would mean the man was to release the woman with no compensation, it would negatively affect his net worth – and perhaps shame him as he might be perceived to not have good judgment (in selecting a wife, controlling his assets, etc.).
I have read that there is no recorded instance in any Hebrew literature of a son being stoned for disobediance to parents. Perhaps the punishment was so severe that parents did not want to go that route, and sons would know the line not to cross.
In like manner, I wonder how many times the situation occurred regarding female captives. Did the 30 days work as a “cooling off” period? If marriage occurred how many times did the man activate the “escape clause”? If it happened 1 in a 1,000 can we say God’s rule on this seemed to work????
In modern times the message may be that if you meet an attractive woman outside your “sphere”, do not rush into marriage. Make sure there is an engagement period where you get to know the “real” her, and don’t let physical attractiveness cause you to marry quickly.
[NOTE: These are my thoughts and I reserve the right to have 30 days to reconsider my hypothesis ] j/k well, they are my thoughts.
John

======= Anka:

Old testament vs new…Reading through the the old testament so far,few people loved God…I mean really loved God.They followed him when it was convenient,sometimes out of fear but their hearts were hardened.Husbands seemed to “love” their wives for their beauty.Abraham and Isaac were willing to sacrifice their wives to save their skins,men could “marry” a wife without loving her and God had set rules on how to divorce a wife so she would have some sort of protection.I wondered,why didn’t God just ban men from marrying more than one wife…maybe God knew they just weren’t capable of love…they did a pretty bad job of obeying him anyway so asking them to be faithful to a wife (someone who was weaker in strength)when they were not faithful to God(who had displayed his strength)would have put the Israelites in trouble big time.
In the new testament,we find people who just love Jesus,Peter had a family but followed Christ around,John’s favorite spot was on Jesus’s breast,the lady with the expensive perfume didn’t care what anyone said…she was going to show her love…years after Jesus was on earth,his followers sometimes pay for their faith with their lives…people learn how to love…Now God can expect us to love one wife because if we love Jesus,he puts love for others in our lives…and we can obey him out of love….And know God is love.
God bless you all
Anka

======= Duane:

I think the bookended passages today between the Deuteronomy reading and the Psalm reading is absolutely heartbreaking. We’ve been reading through all of the commands given to the nation of Israel while they are preparing to assume the Promised Land.
And all they have to do to retain the land is to cling to their God and not play the harlot.
And then in the Psalm it is readily apparent that they have not kept up their end of the bargain. And the greatest loss they suffer is that every meeting place they have with God is now destroyed. The Psalmist is crying out to God because they have lost almost every evidence that they are a sacred and special people.
Duane

====== Jenny:

Jesus was not murdered, but by His LOVE He took my sins, your sins, our sins upon Himself.
John 10:17-18 “…I lay down my life—only to take it up again. No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down and authority to take it up again. This command I received from my Father.”
When I watched the Passion of the Christ, i really got into it and saw what Christ did for me…every lashing, every hammering, i saw my sins…part of the reason i was bawling like a baby, not just bcos He was fully innocent, but bcos He came for this very purpose, He did that for me!! I thought to myself…’could i endure that for anyone??? those i love the most? (let alone for my enemies!)’…i have to say it was probly a no. this goes to show God’s love is beyond our capacity.
Sexual impurity is such a problem these days! especially with the internet, its so accessible…just remember, the viewing of pornography or any sexual material, or entertaining lustful thoughts is detestable to God!!! The flesh is`weak but this isnt an excuse, we must master our flesh. Think of it that way, chose to not be a slave like the world is. say no to satan.
The cost of disciple in Luke 9 is so applicable to us today too. In our initial conversion I’m sure many of us put it off a few times, oh let me do this or this first. But God says: today is the day of salvation. When living the Christian life, we shouldnt put other things before Him, He should be our number 1 priority. In any area, if God says to do this or that, for example God says, forgive so and so….dont come up with excuses, just do it. If He tells us to put something aside, we shouldnt even hesitate. I was miserable without christ, but even now i’ve had the enemy tell me to go back to the world, i have to quickly rebuke those thoughts. why would i want to go back? i had nothing good in that old life…even my worst days now are better then my best days then! I believe this passage is warning us to take a check on our hearts.
Jenny

======= Katie:

We are working the harvest at TCA this week, with the Last Chance play. Last night the platform was full at altar call. Hallelujah!!
Lord, use even me in your ministry to the lost.
Sometimes I don’t know what to do … (don’t know if anyone else thinks that too), so I appreciate direction and leading as to how to work in the Harvest.
Lord, I ask you to bless the efforts of TCA, and I ask for lives to be led to YOU in Jesus’ name!
Also, this week at work I plan to invite coworkers to Easter Sunrise Service. Especially my nonChristian friends. Thanks for the direction in that!!!!
Hallelujah
Katie

======= Erin:

My boyfriend is coming to church with my mom, my sister, and I this Sunday…I am praying that it will be a good experience for us all!! Not only are my mom, sister and I trying to find a church to attend regularly in our hometown, but I am praying that my boyfriend will join me on my Christian walk…
Erin

======= Ramona:

Deuteronomy 21:1-22:30
WOW! My eyes have been open to some things I’ve read before which I was never allowed me to see. I made this statement before and I think some took offense which does not make the statement false or wrong: What we see and hear is colored by the contents of our hearts. And truly the condition of my heart prevented me from seeing the provision God provided for woman that insured they would not be victimized through exploitation.
I am a product of the effects of slavery in the United States. As a daughter of descendents of slaves and old enough to have childhood memories of Jim Crow laws, that proclaimed separate but equal, I must admit I have always wrestled with the Bible’s words on dealing with slavery and its duel laws and methods with dealing with people who were not “like us,” so to speak. When I began this journey, I chose to take a mindset of accepting what I read in this Book as God’s Word even if I did not understand. If God IS good, than everything that God decrees must be good also whether I understand or not. Thus, the belief that the condition of my heart filters everything I read and try to understand in the Bible comes from suddenly understanding things that previously were in the dark. But God is good and today something was removed from my heart that made me see that God does truly love me. God loves woman and though it may appear that God is trying to subjugate the “other” sex, He is in fact liberating them from the whimsical nature of men’s minds and hearts.
God will not leave us as “orphans.” He will not encourage or give His support to men having “sex” with women, which to him is “marriage” and then throwing them away when they are tired of them. She and her offspring MUST be provided for and in the manner that is due them by His law and not by man’s law and whim.
I had a problem with the twenty-second chapter, verses thirteen through thirty, especially that whole thing about stoning the woman at the door of her father’s house, who was accused of not being a virgin and who had no proof that she was. Well, the law provided for cases of rape inside and outside of the village/town; however, today, I don’t think anyone would want to remain married to someone who raped them. Yet marriage was a way for women to have security, it wasn’t really about “falling in luv,” and God’s Law, when upheld, prevented mistreatment.
God, I thank you for opening up the eyes of my heart and showing me Your Truth where I was unable to see.
Grace and peace,
Ramona

======= Kristie:

Thanks Ramona for your insight. I too struggled with this passage. Why would God have a woman marry someone who raped them? Why didnt’ he say something like, “She is still considered a virgin.”
Yet that would be covering up the effects of real shame, like sweeping it up under the carpet.
It think there things in this passage we don’t see in western culture, like shame.
And I am talking about healthy shame….like covering yourself up a bit as a woman, instead of letting it all hang out. Or these movies stars who are so proud about producing a baby out of wedlock!
One thing that did come to light for me is the importance of marriage. We downplay it nowadays….but it seems here that it is a provision and a good thing for our society and for women.
Ramona, I appreciate your reference to the “other” or second sex. I have been doing some reading on the history of modern feminism. I just read a book called the Miseducation of Women that gives interesting insight into Betty Friedan having second thoughts later in life, and Simone de Beauvoir longing to just have a family.It was an interesting read…not written by a Christian (he is into evolutionary psychology)…but you could apply it to a biblical world view that God did indeed create us differently.
Kristie

======= Art:

I find it interesting in the Deuteronomy passage about an unsolved murder, that the atonement remedy is taking a heifer to a remote place and breaking its neck, especially in light of how Judas died (in a remote place): by hanging. Not sure if that’s a valid parallel or if so, what it means, but coming as it does right next to the one about being nailed to a tree bringing a curse, it got me thinking. At the very least, we can say that the murder of Jesus is ‘unsolved’ in the sense that no one individual was responsible and yet every one of us is responsible.
Art

======= Elizabeth:

Hello Everyone,
Just a couple of honest reactions to today’s reading for whatever they are worth.
1. Deuteronomy 22:5-12 strikes me as a particularly bizarre combination of rules—don’t dress like the other gender, don’t mix seed types, don’t mix linen and wool, wear tassles…. Although I know I am free from this law, and I know it is about maintaining purity/separateness from the surrounding pagan cultures, it confuses me to try and think through this. Can we apply one piece (gender appropriate clothing) and ignore the other (mixing seeds, wearing clothes with mixed garments). I guess I just struggle with whether to just overlook the whole of it as obsolete or how to sift and sort all the heaviness of it all.
The God of the OT is the God of the OT, but sometimes I struggle to reconcile the two. He cares for sparrows, yet calls for the breaking of a heifer’s neck near a stream…
2. In Luke 9, I always struggle with Christ’s comment:
“Leave the dead to bury their own dead. But as for you, go and proclaim the kingdom of God.” -Luke 9: 60
I’ve read various commentaries on this passage in the past and understand that Jesus was not heartless, but wanted his followers to not procrastinate and count the cost….but, I still wonder exactly what it means to “go and proclaim the Kingdom of God” Should I be out on our downtown streets evangelizing? Is that enough? Should I be forever on the hunt to “slip Jesus into a conversation”? Should I be inviting all of my friends and neighbors to church regularly? I always feel this pressure to do more…..yet I also don’t like feeling “pushy” or like I am treating people like a project.
Just honest ramblings here,
Elizabeth

======= Colleen:

Mike, I enjoy reading your blog each day, I get some really insightful thoughts on the Daily reading.
The verses that ‘jumped out’ at me this Good Friday is from
Deuteronomy 21:22 “If someone has committed a crime worthy of death and is executed and hung on a tree,
23 the body must not remain hanging from the tree overnight. You must bury the body that same day, for anyone who is hung is cursed in the sight of God. In this way, you will prevent the defilement of the land the Lord your God is giving you as your special possession.
Moses, by the Spirit, uses this phrase of being accursed of God, when he means no more than being treated most disgracefully, that it might afterward be applied to the death of Christ, and might show that in it he underwent the curse of the law for us; which proves His love for us.
The exposure of the corpse was limited to one day. Thus, a criminal who was crucified had to be buried before sunset. The hanging on a tree of the condemned person’s corpse was considered a “curse”. The idea behind the phrase cursed by God seems to be not that the person was impaled because he was cursed but that to leave him exposed there was to invite the curse of God upon the whole land.
That is part of why Joseph of Arimathea was anxious to take Jesus from the cross and bury Him before the new day began. Jesus, when being nailed on the cross, became “accursed” for us—He, being innocent of any crime or sin, took away the curse for the violation of the law (that is, the death penalty) that we, through our sinful conduct, had brought upon ourselves could be made right with a Holy God. Paul cites this text (Gal 3:13 ‘Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree’) to make the point that Christ, suspended from a cross, thereby took upon himself the curse for our sins.
Colleen

======= Dave:

I cannot seem to leave my old life behind me, yet I want to soooo bad!
Dave

======= Frederick:

Luke 10:12
12 I tell you, it will be more bearable on that day for Sodom than for that town.
In today’s OT and NT verses, it can be seen that God looks at sins not only at a personal level, He also looks at the community.
Frederick

======== Bob:

CONFLICTING COMMITMENTS Luke 9:57-62. I really had to shake my head when I read Bob’s commentary on Following Jesus. A fresh and meaningful interpretation of What Jesus is Saying to us. Here is one I had backwards: “God can be used to make your family life better.” God has now become the means, and the family is the end. “This is absolutely, categorically wrong!” God is the end, and we and our families are the means. The family is the means by which we serve God. If we have placed family above Jesus Christ, it is wrong. And here is where it gets really difficult: “Family interests are often really self-interests when you get right down to it. We see in our children our unfulfilled expectations, our desires, our aspirations.” How about this little self interest theme: “Am I sending my children to a Christian school to isolate them from the world, and in the process depriving them of the opportunity to follow Jesus by proclaiming the gospel in a non-Christian school? By building fortress walls between society and our children, are we really saying we cannot or do not trust God to save and to sanctify our Children? ” I think we have to re-evaluate our position with God and our family. If we can’t make the statement, “Nothing must be given priority over our commitment to Jesus Christ. Nothing! ” That’s my objective! It is time to sober up and shake my head. Thank you Jesus.
Bob

======= Joyce:

Mike,
Thank you for pointing out that all the rules and regulations in Deuteronomy 22, including sexual purity, are for the good of the Israelites, for them to focus on God, not on sin.
As you said, the rules & regs for sexual purity are still so needed today.
“Shun immorality and all sexual looseness [flee from impurity in thought, word, or deed]. Any other sin which a man commits is one outside the body, but he who commits sexual immorality sins against his own body.” (1 Corinthians 6:18 Amplified Bible)
May God have mercy and help us,
and may we be very vigilant in staying away from sexual sin!
Grateful for this blog!
Joyce

======= Dee:

The harvest is so great! Yes..I have been puzzled last few days..how someone so healthy and to me 68 is not very old dies suddenly and I noticed on obit..grew up or is catholic..and I don’t have any problems with her religion or anyone’s preference but I have known this woman almost 38 years and I don’t think I ever brought up Jesus..so yes there are few workers ..sometimes I don’t share like I need. I pray I will get bolder and several of us do better at sharing love of Jesus especially with this blog being a beacon of hope. God bless u Mike
Dee

Deuteronomy 18:1-20:20 + Luke 9:28-50 + Psalm 73:1-28 + Proverbs 12:10
~ Click here to read today’s Scripture on Bible Gateway ~
~ Listen to today’s Scripture with Tom Dooley’s terrific NLT 1996 readings at this link or The ESV Bible: OT + NT + Psalms + Proverbs ~

Wow, the past 3 months seem to have flown by…  It’s now April 1 and we are officially 25%, or one quarter, of the way through the Bible!  Congratulations! Give yourself a pat on the back!  High-five God!  Your marathon pace is going great!

Old Testament – In Deuteronomy 18:15 today Moses prophesies about Jesus!  “Moses continued, “The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among your fellow Israelites. You must listen to him.”  These words of Moses’ show that the coming of Jesus was not an afterthought, but part of God’s original plan.  In Acts 3:22-23 Peter quoted this verse to show that Jesus was the long awaited Messiah, the prophet referred to here in Deuteronomy.

Bob Deffinbaugh with Bible.org has a great commentary on Deuteronomy chapter 18 titled “False Prophets” at this link.  One good quote from this link from Bob is – “False prophets play down the majesty and holiness of God. They try, as it were, to ‘bring God down’ to our level. They make us feel comfortable around “God” (or the “gods”), and they even seek to convince us that we can manipulate God to our advantage. The true prophets did just the opposite.'”  Think there are false prophets in our world today?

In Deuteronomy chapter 19 we read about the Cities of Refuge today.  An image is below for verse 11 – which did not allow one safety in the Cities of Refuge…. “”But suppose someone hates a neighbor and deliberately ambushes and murders that neighbor…”

An image is below for Deuteronomy chapter 20 verses 1 through 4 – ““When you go out to fight your enemies and you face horses and chariots and an army greater than your own, do not be afraid. The LORD your God, who brought you safely out of Egypt, is with you! Before you go into battle, the priest will come forward to speak with the troops. He will say, `Listen to me, all you men of Israel! Do not be afraid as you go out to fight today! Do not lose heart or panic. For the LORD your God is going with you! He will fight for you against your enemies, and he will give you victory!'”  This reminds me of a great lyric from Chris Tomlin’s Arriving CD – “If God is on our side, who can be against us?”

New Testament – Today in Luke chapter 9 we read about the Transfiguration!  I read an interesting commentary that said Peter was suggesting that 3 shelters be made because Peter thought at that time that the faith was built on these 3 pillars:  The Law (Moses), the Prophets (Elijah), and Jesus.  Whereas, Peter later understood that through the New Covenant our faith is now built on Jesus, “a chosen and precious cornerstone” (1 Peter 2:6).

In Luke chapter 9 verse 46 today we read – “Then there was an argument among them as to which of them would be the greatest.”  Hmmm…. think this sort of thing still goes on today?  🙂  Sure it does, because I’ve participated in this sort of thing.  No, I guess I’ve never straight out argued with someone that I’m greater than them in the kingdom of God…  but I’ve thought it.  How sad.  How very sad.  Why sad?  Because if we consciously thinking about ourselves as being better than someone else, then we are spending precious time focused on the wrong thing in life – ourselves.  God calls us to love & serve others in so many more valuable ways.  When we are focusing on ourselves, and thinking we are all-that-and-a-bag-o-chips we are not loving anybody…   Praise God that Jesus teaches the disciples – and you and me today – that there is a better way.  Verses 47 & 48 continue – “But Jesus knew their thoughts, so he brought a little child to his side. Then he said to them, “Anyone who welcomes a little child like this on my behalf welcomes me, and anyone who welcomes me welcomes my Father who sent me. Whoever is the least among you is the greatest.””

Bible.org’s commentary on Luke chapter 9 titled “The Transfiguration of Christ” is at this link and commentary titled “Secular Saints” is at this link.

Psalms – Wow… Psalm 73 today is amazing!  I love it.  I actually had lunch with a good friend who said to me verse 13 almost verbatim – “Was it for nothing that I kept my heart pure and kept myself from doing wrong?”  It was so sad for me to hear him say this… but he obviously is not alone.  The Psalmist thought this too, and I imagine each of us might feel like this is at times.  Praise God that the Psalmist rallies, as hopefully do we, in verse 23 – “Yet I still belong to you; you are holding my right hand.” And then I absolutely love where he goes with verse 26 – “My health may fail, and my spirit may grow weak, but God remains the strength of my heart; he is mine forever.”  I can quickly think of people in our world today where this verse 26 is so applicable…  let us pray that those in time of failing health and spirit have God remain the strength of their heart!

Bible.org’s commentary on today’s readings in Psalm 73 titled “Is Your Spiritual Vision 20/20?” is at this link.

Proverbs – Proverbs chapter 12 verse 10 I kind of forgot was in the Bible – “The godly are concerned for the welfare of their animals…”   Great Proverb for all you animal lovers out there! 🙂  I’m an animal lover too… but as I know my weakness for even caring for plants, I have wisely not moved into caring for the animal kingdom in any way, shape, or form…   I probably should not put this out there publicly.  God may now put me to the test in this arena!  🙂

Worship Video:  Today’s readings reminded me Matthew West’s terrific song “Maker:”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UwRCbKXqFqY

Have you given your life over to your maker? Click here and meet your Maker!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on three verses of Scripture today: “An argument started among the disciples as to which of them would be the greatest. Jesus, knowing their thoughts, took a little child and had him stand beside him. Then he said to them, “Whoever welcomes this little child in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me. For whoever is least among you all is the greatest.” Luke 9:46-48 TNIV

Prayer Point: Pray that you will never seek to be the “greatest.” Pray instead to be the least among all, as Jesus was the least among all. Pray you will follow Jesus in his humility.

Comments from You & Questions of the Day:  How have the first 3 months of readings been for you?  Have you learned something new about God?  About Jesus?  About the Old Testament?  Are you looking forward to the next 3 months of readings?  Do you think this daily reading of the Bible is a good spiritual discipline?  Also, what verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings?  Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 – Download a schedule of our Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 – I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!

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======= Ramona:

Deuteronomy 18:1-20:20
God, I want to hear from you, but I really don’t want to hear from you. Send me someone, anyone who is willing to listen to you and have them tell me what you said, and so Israel said.
The LORD your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among you from your fellow Israelites; you must listen to him. This accords with what happened at Horeb in the day of the assembly. You asked the LORD your God: “Please do not make us hear the voice of the LORD our God any more or see this great fire any more lest we die.” The LORD then said to me, “What they have said is good. I will raise up a prophet like you for them from among their fellow Israelites. I will put my words in his mouth and he will speak to them whatever I command. I will personally hold responsible anyone who then pays no attention to the words that prophet speaks in my name. “But if any prophet presumes to speak anything in my name that I have not authorized him to speak, or speaks in the name of other gods, that prophet must die. Now if you say to yourselves, ‘How can we tell that a message is not from the LORD?’ whenever a prophet speaks in my name and the prediction is not fulfilled, then I have not spoken it; the prophet has presumed to speak it, so you need not fear him.” (Deuteronomy 18:15-22 NET.)
I’m sure if you hear God speak, you will know that God is speaking to you. Yet, if someone comes in and says that they have a word from God, look out. Now, not only must you listen carefully to their words and weigh it against what you remember, you think, are the ways of God, you must also judge if the prophet is true or false. If you get it wrong you are in trouble, and if you get it right you better pray that you have a good memory. If you right it down can you remember where in your multitude of journals you wrote down the word? (Before I began saving my writing to hard drive, I accumulated 18 journals.
Do I put plugs in my ears to block out God’s voice speaking to me, while claiming that if God only sent a righteous person to speak to me, I’ll listen? By the time you finish testing the messenger, will you remember the message?
Grace and peace,
Ramona

======= Maria:

I have been reading your blog regularly for some time though I have never posted. I have been reading the One Year Bible since January and I find your blog to be an amazing great tool in learning more about the daily readings. I appreciate all the illustrations since I seem to be the visual type of person. I’ve learned a lot from your blog! It truly encourages people to read the Bible more and more. This has been indeed a wonderful journey.
So today I wanted to say thanks for all the work you do in keeping this blog so well updated on a daily basis!
It’s interesting to see how the more you read the Bible, the more you “get” it. When reading the Bible (even if we don’t quite get it at first) we are depositing little seads directly from God’s word into our brain. Later, the Holy Spirit can access these seeds when we need them in our life. If we don’t deposit anything in our “brain account”, we won’t have anything in there to access from.
That’s why I think reading the Bible is so important. It is a way to directly communicate with him without the use of the “middle man” like you said. And it helps us recognize true gifted teachers who teach God’s word based on Bible teachings and weed out those who are “false prophets”. It is through God’s word that we can connect with him.
Maria

======= Sean:

awesome site! I really enjoy reading myself, but I tend to take it more slowly. I am really encouraged that there are groups out there who do this together!
Sean

======= Kristie:

I enjoyed today’s readings, although as I started reading Deuteronomy I was also eating my breakfast (egg burrito). When they were talking about cheeks and lobes, I started the reading in Luke!
Anyhow, several things jumped out at me. One is the transfiguration (I read it in the ESV) when the Jesus was left standing alone, and Peter starts saying, “Hey, let’s build a shrine..” Then they are enveloped in a cloud and God has “this is my son, listen to Him!” It just cracks me up. Poor Peter thinks he has this great strategy, and then God corrects him–personally. And the lesson is, Listen to Jesus! And how do we do that? But reading and understanding the Word! How exciting that we are doing that together here reading the whole Bible to gain a better understanding and overview.
I also enjoyed the Psalm today…
verse 23: Nevertheless, I am continually with you;
you hold my right hand.
He is with us…why? Because he holds our right hand. I see it as a picture of a father with a child, holding our hand.
Anyhow, I am sure you got similar observations on that Psalm. It’s beautiful.
Kristie

======= Laura:

Re: The Transfiguration that, we spoke of in todays reading. Bible.org was very interesting today. The comment that Bob made “The spectacular never really convinces or converts anyone”, is the reason that those who witnessed the Transfiguration of Jesus who were Peter, James and John give no gospel account of the Transfiguration. The Lord does not play up this miracle or the mount of Transfiguration.
According to Bob Deffenbuagh: Bob says ( I’ve copied and pasted this ) Observations
Before we seek to explore the implications and applications of the transfiguration, let us pause for a moment to make an observation about the three who witnessed this event. There were three witnesses to the transfiguration: Peter, John, and James.181 There are also three accounts of the transfiguration in the gospels: Matthew, Mark, and Luke. Is it not noteworthy that while there are three witnesses to the transfiguration, not one of them is a gospel writer? Matthew, who wrote one of the accounts, was one of the nine left behind. John, on the other hand, who accompanied Jesus up to the mount of transfiguration, and who wrote a gospel account, does not include the transfiguration in his gospel. I find this most interesting. If such a spectacular event were to happen today, we would be certain to have the “press corps” invited. Jesus did not do so, and He knew what was going to happen (cf. Luke 9:27).
I am not sure that I can explain why this is true, why Jesus would invite three men along, and yet none of them would give a personal account of the event. I think it is safe to say that Jesus did not capitalize upon or emphasize the spectacular. If He handled things as some religious leaders do, He would not only have had the twelve disciples along, but he would have had the radio, television, press, and a huge crowd of witnesses along with him as well. Jesus downplayed the spectacular, while we play it up. Perhaps we need to learn a lesson from our Lord, here
Bob makes 5 points that I found interesting:
1. The Transfiguration confirms the identity of Jesus.
2. His kindom is identified.
3. Clarification is made that Jesus is one who is greater.
4. The crown and cross are one.
5. God can raise men from the dead.
I encourage everyone today to read the commentary at the link Mike provided about the Transfiguration, you might learn something new.
Laura

======= Ann:

The first three months of reading the Bible (as a group) has been so rewarding. Points that I had not even considered have been aired on the ‘Blog Site’ enriching my understanding. Many thanks to you all.
Ann

======= Karen:

I believe that reading the Bible is a spiritual discipline that I need. I have to admit that I started out strong, but have fizzled out in the past month or so. I have picked up days here and there, but not consistently. I feel like Paul who said that they things he should do he didn’t do and the things he shouldn’t do were what he found himself doing. Thank you for the blog, I, too, really need the illustrations to show some of the important points, and look forward to insights in the blog that I haven’t picked up from the reading. Keep up the good work.
Karen

======= Bill:

I’ve very recently given myself to the Lord. Reading the Bible daily for the first time is having a major positive effect on my life.
Praise God
Bill

======= Becky:

I can hardly believe it, but I’ve read the Bible every day for three months! It’s definitely thanks to the structure and the motivation from this site. Although I’ve been a believer for a few years, I regret to say that I’ve not read consistently before, nor have I read much of the OT, except for Genesis, Exodus, and some of the “stories” here and there. Reading Scripture, the Blog, and people’s comments has been great– I’ve learned a lot!
Also, I was really resistant at first to reading Scripture in anything other than the King James Version. But I decided to borrow the One Year Bible (NLT) from a friend to see if it was easier than flipping back and forth in my old trusty KJ. And it was! And I started to really like the NLT! I bought one for myself and 2 for friends.
Becky

======= Brandie:

To me the Old Testament is like reading a story, it is hard to explain. I can’t really get into learning something new in the Old Testament but can. For example how many wives they had and who they laid with – oh my goodness..and now it is still the same..with out the many wives..:)
The daily reading of the Bible is a good spiritual discipline because it makes me feel good about myself. Makes the day go smoother 
Brandie

======= Hal:

But God remains the strength of my heart…Man, thats tight! No matter who the person is, the situation or circumstance rising up against me, I can say “but God.” Because as long as He’s with me, I know that He’s takin care of me because He stays He on control. God bless u for ur amazing ministry. Your reward will be great in the Kingdom
Hal

======= Jenny:

I see in Deut today the Bible discusses evil such as physics, fortune-tellers, contacting the dead etc. Some Christians seem unsure about this. When i was in the world i went to a psychic (she was wrong!) n considered contacting the dead, my best friend had died and i was desperate, though i knew it was wrong and my Christian upbringing kept me from it. I later learned if someone does contact the dead via juiji board, seance, (n its not fake) you are not contacting your loved one but rather a demon impersonating ur loved one. scary! I’ll stay away from that. Astrology, horoscopes, witchcraft (Paganism, Wicca) is all extremely evil and we as God’s children should not go near that. You never want to open a door to invite that in your life. v 14: “the Lord your God forbids you to do such things.”
Man, there are false prophets right and left. Many prominent ppl today. As Christians we need discernment….is their practices of the Bible? Do they have a scriptual basis for what they say? Do they seek to add or take away from the Woord of God? I was listening to Pastors’ Perspective, a call-in Christian radio show, about the Emerging Church…stay away from that, it brings confusion to ppl, including many weaker Christians…it also seems to be the gateway for the emergence of the one-world-church spoken of in the end times. At church tonight the Pastor was discussing that the US may go to war with Iran in the summer and this could be the battle spoken of (i believe its in the book of revelation) the war that comes against Israel and this is pretty much signifying that the return of Jesus is right around the corner…but we know 7 yrs b4 His return, the church will be raptured. God’s wrath is about to be poured out…definitely on the US, we know Hollywood is the home to all the pornographic smut, etc…and we are spreading it world-wide. But God will not pour out His wrath until His bride (the church…the TRUE church is taken up!)
In Luke we read about Elijah and Moses with Jesus…perhaps comforting Him, strengthening Him concerning His upcoming crucifixion. These two men may very well be the two witnesses that will appear during the Great Trib..we know one is Elijah. Years ago ppl wondered, how on earth can the whole world see these two witnesses be killed and rise again on day 3. well with the internet and cable, we see its definitely possible.
Who will be the greatest in the kingdom….if we are honest with ourselves, we will know we are sinners and its ONLY by God’s grace, Jesus’ righteousness imparted to us that allows access to God and eternal life. Nothing we do or say…i honestly have never thought of myself being great in the Kingdom of God..the thought makes me laugh!
Wow!! I LOVE Ps 73!!:
Truly God is good to Israel,
to those whose hearts are pure.
2 But as for me, I almost lost my footing.
My feet were slipping, and I was almost gone.
3 For I envied the proud
when I saw them prosper despite their wickedness.
4 They seem to live such painless lives;
their bodies are so healthy and strong.
5 They don’t have troubles like other people;
they’re not plagued with problems like everyone else.
6 They wear pride like a jeweled necklace
and clothe themselves with cruelty.
7 These fat cats have everything
their hearts could ever wish for!
8 They scoff and speak only evil;
in their pride they seek to crush others.
9 They boast against the very heavens,
and their words strut throughout the earth.
12 Look at these wicked people—
enjoying a life of ease while their riches multiply.
13 Did I keep my heart pure for nothing?
Did I keep myself innocent for no reason?
14 I get nothing but trouble all day long;
every morning brings me pain.
I am soooo feeling that!!! “I get nothing but trouble all day long; every morning brings me pain.”
16 So I tried to understand why the wicked prosper.
But what a difficult task it is!
17 Then I went into your sanctuary, O God,
and I finally understood the destiny of the wicked.
verrrry powerful! I heard a sermon on this once and it opened my eyes so much!
21 Then I realized that my heart was bitter,
and I was all torn up inside.
22 I was so foolish and ignorant—
I must have seemed like a senseless animal to you.
23 Yet I still belong to you;
you hold my right hand.
24 You guide me with your counsel,
leading me to a glorious destiny.
25 Whom have I in heaven but you?
I desire you more than anything on earth.
amen, i am feeling this!!!
28 But as for me, how good it is to be near God! (another Amen!)
Concerning proverbs…i do see many ungodly who love their animals…But I am definitely an animal lover!!!! I have loved all my pets; cats, dog, rats, etc, sooo much. I truly believe pets and animals are a gift from God to us! I lok forward to getting a couple rats soon, my living situation doesnt permit cats or dogs. Also have been a vegetarian for nearly 17 yrs. God just gave me a sensitive heart for them. Of course i know eating animal carcus isnt a sin, but i personally cant do it. But during the millennial reign, all animals will be vegetarian, the lion will lie down with the lamb…I’m assuming we will be vegetarian. that makes me happy! So this is to say murdering animals didnt begin until sin entered the world….part of the curse.
Ok, those are my daily tangents. :p
Jenny

======= Stuart:

This is a truly wonderful site with well proportioned daily readings. No matter how many times we read the Word, there is always something new to learn. The daily discipline of reading OYB before embarking on each day’s activities is indeed beneficial:)As for looking forward to the next 3 months readings, I will go further and state that I look forward to reading OYB for as long as it is written!
Blessings to Mike and all his readers.
Stuart in Spain

======= Laurel:

I am new to the word of God, I am being Baptized in a few weeks. I do not understand Deuteronomy 19:21 Show no pity: life for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot.
Are we not suposed to firgive all who sin against us so we to will be forgiven?
Laurel

======= Nancy:

In response to Laurel, after Christ came things changed. Yes, we do need to forgive always, but in Old Testament times that was not the case. Many things are new because of Christ coming and giving us a new covenant. May the Lord Bless You.
Nancy

======== Richard:

I think your blog on the one year Bible is outstanding. I enjoy the confident, yet humble way you share God’s Word along with your insights. It is a challenge to keep up with the readings, but a very good discipline that I enjoy more with the relevant discussion you provide.
Richard

======= Lisa:

I became a grandmother in March, blessed by a baby girl born to our oldest son and daughter-in-law. Going to war in the OT part of our reading made me think of Jesus asking the disciples to follow Him. They could not have their hearts on earthly homes and serve the Lord. He is priority. I thought about our own daily struggle with this. If you decide, you can fight the war, otherwise we are lukewarm. The captain of the army told them to go back home if it was more important to them. I don’t like what Jesus says about Lukewarm in Revelation, when I am in a season of undecided, wishy-washy, the rut of the tyranny of the urgent, etc. My peace is found at the feet of Jesus.
Lisa

======= Elizabeth:

Hello All,
The past three months of reading have been good. It’s been awhile since I’ve read the first part of the OT consecutively and intentionally. Reading at such a fast pace is helpful in getting a broader view of God’s big plan.
The law has been more cumbersome for me than in prior readings, but the Israelites’ broader journey through the wilderness has been rich in life lessons.
I’m looking forward to moving into Joshua and Judges,
Elizabeth

======= Denise:

Hello,
I have really enjoyed being in God’s word the last four months and look forward to the next 8 months. I have to say that the OT is very convicting and heavy. I have to keep reminding myself of God’s grace vs. the law.
I have also found that if I read Proverbs first, Psalms second, the NT third and the OT last it helps me to be able to focus more on the Psalms and Proverbs. There is so much going on in the NT & OT stories that my mind often lingers there.
What a wonderful journey! Thank you for this blog, it is a great resource and blessing! I also enjoy the emails you send out with the questions for reflection.
Denise

======== Elizabeth:

Denise: Interesting insight about reading the psalms and proverbs first….I’ll have to try that!
Elizabeth

======= Luch:

Psalm 73:28 is fitting as we go through this Holy/Passion Week. Jesus died for us and rose from the dead so this verse could be a reality in our/my life/lives.
“But as for me, how good it is to be near God! I have made the Sovereign LORD my shelter, and I will tell everyone about the wonderful things you do.”
Luch

======= Wendy:

These last three months have been so very rewarding to me. This is as far as I have even gotten with respect to reading the Bible. I have learned so much! I see so many similarities from the Old, New Testaments and today. I am really looking forward to more…..it has made me stronger in my faith….my daily walk with the Lord.
I would like to take time to thank you, Mike for the opportunity for us to participate together. Your program keeps me focused.
Have a wonderful Easter everyone. God Bless us all.
Wendy

======= Alli:

Hi Mike
I would also like to personally thank you for putting together these daily readings…like Wendy, this is as far as I have ever gotten with respect to reading the Bible…and I am also looking forward to learning much more…I try my best not to miss a day and I have been successful :)…I am understanding more and more each day and pray that God would grant all who read wisdom and open up our understanding daily…
Thank you so much once again…
God Bless!
Alli

======= Dee:

In Deuteronomy Chapter 19, verse 13, second half stood out to me, (13) Purge from Israel the guilt of murdering innocent people, then all will go well with you. For some reason, the shedding of innocent blood come into my mind(abortion) and I got to thinking, if they still purged the guilty parties, the abortion activitist and held accountable or just banished all abortion clinics, how different our nation and society could/would be? Now, if any are reading are sensitive to this read or have been guilty of this in past, Jesus blood covers a multitude of sins and repentance is there and you will see those precious babies again in Heaven I believe, its just all these congressman who are so Liberal and don’t see these infants at conception as being real or not having a voice for those who cry out in the womb, it is a sore spot deep within me and I believe the Holy Spirit puts that sensitivity in our soul/spirit because it is against all that Christ came to give us and that is Life and Life more abundantly! and to the fullest!
now, that I am off my soap box,
Luke, 9:28-50
So, Jesus took up Peter James and John up the mountain while He went to pray. What I noticed throughout the Gospels is everytime, Christ is trying to show or teach the disciples, His special “set apart disciples” something extraordinary, they go to sleep..they went to sleep now and when Jesus goes to the Garden on night of His arrest, charges, and leading up to ressurection, they sleep..What is wrong with this picture??I look at this in our lives, when Christ is within us and trying to teach and discipline us in our lives, we get into lazy mode, and want to sleep, eat, get off on things that “aren’t” the will of God..is that speaking to anyone else because I am preaching to myself here too..These guys had the Saviour with them all days, all the time, and maybe they felt the peace that surpasses all understanding, and maybe they thought Hey, we are with the King of Kings, Lord of Lords, the greatest Protection we will ever know, and that just put them in a tranquil, ease, position that they thought as long as the Father is with them, they were off their shift of work, so to speak..whatever it was, we can all learn that Christ has amazing things for us to do here and on this side of Heaven to bring about the amazing Transformation that will Rock this World off its foundation..
~~Be Blessed 
Dee

======= Ted:

I’m 53 and using the one year Bible study for the first time. It’s having a HUGE impact on my spiritual walk. I’m ashamed it took me so long to get into daily scripture reading. I always used to look at it as a chore. I look forward to it now. It’s changing my life in really positive ways.
Blessings,
Ted

======== Billy:

Mike, the first 3 months have been fantastic. The Blog and the Daily readings are a Godsend. I look forward every day to my morning reading. Thanks again for your insight and words of wisdom.
Thanks Laura, yeah I have read some of the Bob Deffenbaugh comments before and he is well worth giving a look when Mike posts his commentaries. He is very smart and insightful. Thanks for the summary.
Billy

======= Duane:

I look forwarded to my daily reading everyday. I enjoy reading and listening to the audio version as well. Through commentary links I am learning more everyday. The bible blog is the best way I’ve found to complete the one year bible journey.I actually stumble on it by accident, what a blessing.
Duane

======= Colleen:

Mike, thank you so much for your faithful service to the Lord through this web site! This is my second go-round with One Year Bible Blog and it has been a true blessing! I look forward every day to joining all of you as we make our way through God’s holy scriptures. The blog, commentary links, and readers’ comments add so much richness to the experience; God is revealing so many new things that I did not see or think about on my last time reading through the Bible. May our Heavenly Father bless each of you!
Colleen

======= Jill:

I find it interesting in Luke 9:50 where Jesus called them a perverse generation. Shows Jesus frustration. I read a commentary on it saying they were focused on only their physical bodies and that they wanted Jesus to heal their demon possessed son. But not concerned with Jesus teachings. He came to reach them about eternal life and was concerned with more of that.just something to think about, We get caught up in earthly things and the state of our physical bodies. We are self centered. We should be Concerned only about where we are going.
Jill

======= Sandra:

YES YES THIS ONE YEAR DAILY BIBLE READING IS ABSOLUTELY WONDERFUL.. I HAVE HAD A LITTLE HARD TIME W ALL THE SACRIFICES. BUT I OUR GOD IS THE ALMIGHTY AND WHATEVER HE SAYS OR DOES IS HIS BUSINESS.TY SO MUCH .I HAVE SENT TO OTHERS ENCOURAGING THEM TO READ.GOD BLESS ALL WHO HAVE A PART IN THIS.I JUST PRAY FOR MORE WISDOM TO UNDERSTAND HIS WILL…AGAIN THANK YOU ,GOD BLESS….
Sandra

======= Tabitha:

This is year 3 for me. I don’t comment often but I do enjoy reading and going thru this study knowing that there are others who are working out their own salvation with fear and trembling right along with me. I feel like something is off during the day if I haven’t read and studied with you. Prayers and blessings to you all.
Tabitha

======= Judie:

I liked your opening comment about our marathon pace in going through the Bible. We
certainly need to keep up on our reading. I have found that if I miss one or two days of reading for whatever reason, I need to catch up right away. If I don’t, then it gets harder and harder to make myself do it because it seems that there is just so much, and, also, I know that something is missing from my life that I really need for my spiritual health.
Today is Easter. Christ is alive. He lived an died for us. I am always amazed at this. There is such a joyous song of Easter that I listen to every year. Please take the time to go to youtube music and listen to Easter Song by Glad. It will make your heart sing.
Judie

======= Robert:

Luke 9:28-36
The Transfiguration
For the gospels, Mathew didn’t go and John who didn’t write anything about the Transfiguration. That is a very interesting observation. Thanks Laura. There are dozens of reasons of course (maybe training purposes), but obviously it wasn’t in God’s plan. Peter does say something in 2 Peter 1:16-18. There might be a clue in the end where scripture says, “The disciples kept this to themselves, and told no one at that time what they had seen”. Jesus must always be our own personal discovery. (Luke 9:20).
I am not sure how I would handle this event or write about it but I certainly would see Jesus in a new way. Seeing the Kingdom this way presents the same problem today. How do you tell someone about it? Little kids understand it better than we do! LOL.
Psalm 73
I think the Steve Sanchez commentary “Is your spiritual vision 20/20?” has a good point. It is a matter of helping people appreciate in the midst of our 5 senses the wonder of who God is, what he has made and what sort of future he has in store for us. In many ways this is in line with how to see the Kingdom. Steve says, “We can come alongside someone and say, “Here, let me help you; you’re looking in the wrong place. Look over here.” We stand shoulder to shoulder and say, “Can you see Him? Look again; He’s right in front of you.” This is the heart of discipleship – helping your brothers and sisters, and fellow human beings “see.”
Robert

======= John:

Detestable Practices
Deut 18:9-13
“When you enter the land the LORD your God is giving you, do not learn to imitate the detestable ways of the nations there. Let no one be found among you who sacrifices his son or daughter in the fire, who practices divination or sorcery, interprets omens, engages in witchcraft, or casts spells, or who is a medium or spiritist or who consults the dead. Anyone who does these things is detestable to the LORD, and because of these detestable practices the LORD your God will drive out those nations before you. You must be blameless before the LORD your God.” NIV
The Hebrew word for “detestable practices is “tow`ebah” and is translated elsewhere as “abominations” meaning – disgusting.
I think the NIV is a bit nice on this point. Something detestable is bad, but has the connotation of “being able to put up with”. Disgusting on the other hand “turns your stomach”, makes you pale to look at, or is just plain horrible.
God is very patient and tolerant until a person or people reach a certain level of sin. When that level is reached – judgment is pronounced on them. Such were the seven tribes inhabiting Canaan.
Besides the rejection of God, the diseases that were probably rampant in these nation states, it may be that it was pure evil that these people lived under as a Code of life.
In this sense it may be understandable why God said all must be destroyed. That way the Israelites would not be physically or spiritually polluted.
Like Mike said, another good commentary from Bob. Everyone should read this commentary. You may not agree with the commentary, but you should read it – especially if you do not agree .
False Prophets, Part II
(Deuteronomy 18:1-22)
By: Bob Deffinbaugh , Th.M.
http://www.bible.org/page.asp?page_id=2398
(same link as in Mike’s text)
John

======= John:

Luke 9
Vs. 27
“I tell you the truth, some who are standing here will not taste death before they see the kingdom of God.” NIV
“kingdom” has a different connotation today then it had back in Jesus’ time. Today we associate a kingdom with territorial boundries. Back then a kingdom was associated with the “ruler” – with the ruler’s power and authority.
With that in mind – I have always associated the preceding verses to the transfiguration about “not tasting death” to be about the transfiguration. It was at that mount that the three disciples saw the power, authority, and glory of Christ.
======================================================
Transfiguration
“29As he was praying, the appearance of his face changed, and his clothes became as bright as a flash of lightning.”
“32Peter and his companions were very sleepy, but when they became fully awake, they saw his glory and the two men standing with him.”
Jesus met with Moses and Elijah – this was apporpriate as Jesus fulfilled the Law and the Prophets.
The disciples saw the full glory of Christ – reflecting His power and authority.
If that was not enough – God, the Father, Himself spoke and anointed Christ with the authority of the One to listen to regarding God’s message.
People write that none of the disciples at the mount ever wrote about this event. I am not so sure:
John 1:14
“The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only,who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.” NIV
======================================================
One last note on Peter – I would not be so hard on him for his comment on building tabernacles/shelters/tents for the three. It is quite likely that this event occured during the feast of the Tabernacles, where the populace built shelters and lived in them for eight days to commerate the time in the Wilderness. In his effort to say something – perhaps Peter felt safe falling back on the Feast Days of Our Lord.
John

======= John:

Luke
When will they listen?????
Luke 9:41 “O unbelieving and perverse generation,” Jesus replied, “how long shall I stay with you and put up with you? Bring your son here.” NIV
Moses uses the same words regarding the “genearation” in Deut 32:5. There is nothing new under the sun. Israel had not followed God’s Words in the past, and they (the nation) were not listening to Christ’s message now.
Christ (I would think rhetorically) asks how long he shall be there and put up with the people. “put up with” is Gk. anechomai – and is literally “bear or endure”. Remember God hates sin, so it must have been a horrible burden for our Lord to be on earth surrounded by sin and corruption. What makes it worse – the people (the nation) were not listening to His message of Salvation.
======================================================
So what about the boy? Is every epileptic demon-possessed? No. However in this case, the boy was demon possessed, and I think on a spiritual level the boy represents the nation (Israel). A nation who had been attracted to false idols, who had not listened and obeyed God’s Word, whose very structure was twisted,crooked and perverse as the boy’s features.
So the people want another miracle. Jesus heals the boy by throwing the demon out of his body, and the people are amazed. The do not believe in Him, but they are amazed. Another in the countless examples – that signs and wonders do not convert when the heart is not right.
[NOTE: If the nation heeded the Word of God – they would have embraced Jesus. If the person is a believer, on a physical level, they never would have a deomonic possession. there is not in the Bible and since in History where a true believer was thought to be demonically possessed. Influenced, maybe; possessed, no.]
Jesus immediately goes to work – that is great but hear now what is important…listen to the message.
======================================================
Who will be greatest?
Even in his disciples who have been with him two+ years – listening is not high on the list. Despite all the messages on humility – here they argued about who would be greatest in the kingdom of God?
Jesus showed them here: look – be humble as a child – receive all who come in my name no matter their rank or life works – LISTEN – all are in the Body of Christ – the least shall be the greatest. It is not important the rank, but to be in the Body. That means you have listened.
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What about those not in the inner circle?
It does not matter if those doing my work are not amongst you. If they are in the Body of Christ – they are not against you – but for you.
Listen to the message of Christ. If you have believed in Him and Recieved Christ into your life – you are part of the Body of Christ.
Do you find yourself pinning your belief on signs and wonders, do you want recognition for your Christianity, do you get ticked at the activities of the church down the street who proclaims the Word of God?????
How exasperating it must be to Christ when His Body acts in these ways – listen to the message, and pray to be more Christlike.
John