Isaiah 33:10-36:22 + Galatians 5:13-26 + Psalm 64:1-10 + Proverbs 23:23
~ 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 – Today we read Isaiah chapter 35, which is a wonderful glimpse of God’s Kingdom Come! The preceding Chapter 34 is a message of judgment to the nations during the end times. And then Chapter 35 is a message of hope for those who love, believe in and are obedient to the Lord. I love verse 8 in chapter 35: “And a main road will go through that once deserted land. It will be named the Highway of Holiness. Evil-hearted people will never travel on it. It will be only for those who walk in God’s ways; fools will never walk there.” I like that concept! The Highway of Holiness! If you could take the Highway of Holiness right now, would you? Do you look forward to walking on the Highway of Holiness in the future? In the midst of our often chaotic and un-holy world, will you seek only the Highway of Holiness for your life today and forevermore?
As I mentioned above, Isaiah chapter 34 is a message of judgment. An interesting thing to note about the “the horned owl, the hawk, the screech owl, and the raven” listed in verse 11 and the owl and the vulture in verse 15 is that these are all unclean birds per Deuteronomy 14:11-18. In verse 8 today we read – “For it is the day of the LORD’s vengeance, the year when Edom will be paid back for all it did to Israel.”
In Isaiah chapter 36 today you probably noticed that we’ve read this story about Sennacherib threatening Jerusalem before. In fact, much of Isaiah chapters 36 through 39 are sometimes verbatim of Second Kings 18:13 through 20:19. The compiler of Second Kings may have utilized Isaiah chapters 36 through 39 as a source, or it is also thought that both may have drawn from another common source. Today in chapter 36 we are in the year 701 B.C., and we get some bold boasts before the walls of Jerusalem by King Sennacherib of Assyria’s representatives… Verse 20 includes this boast, which didn’t make God too happy: “What god of any nation has ever been able to save its people from my power? Name just one! So what makes you think that the LORD can rescue Jerusalem?”
New Testament – I love Paul’s teaching in Galatians 5 verses 22 & 23 today – “But when the Holy Spirit controls our lives, he will produce this kind of fruit in us: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.” It is incredible I think for each of us to really meditate on this question – does the Holy Spirit control your life? I think so often – even after coming to faith in Christ – we still try to hold onto the controls of our life! I know I do. And yet, when I finally realize that I should instead “let go, and let God”, my life gets 100 times easier. I don’t stress and worry about things any more. When I let myself be controlled by the Holy Spirit I finally realize that this is where true LIFE is at! It’s not in hanging on so tightly to the steering wheel… Then, as we truly let the Holy Spirit control our lives, we begin to see amazing fruits being born in us! Do you see these fruits in your life today? Love? Joy? Peace? Patience? Kindness? Goodness? Faithfulness? Gentleness? Self-control? How are you doing on letting the Holy Spirit control your life these days? Who is holding on to your steering wheel – you or the Holy Spirit? Will you now let go of that steering wheel? Will you “let go, and let God.” Will you let the fruits of the Spirit fully grow in your life?
Bible.org’s terrific commentary on today’s readings in Galatians titled “The War Without And the War Within” is at this link. Below is a great image for Galatians 5:16 from today’s readings!
Psalms – Psalm 64 verse 10 is beautiful – “The godly will rejoice in the LORD and find shelter in him.” Do you consider God a shelter for your life? When storms come into your life, do you find shelter in God? How about the Bible? Is the Bible a sort of shelter in your life? Do you find refuge in the Bible?
Proverbs – Today in Proverbs 23:23 we read: “Buy the truth and do not sell it; get wisdom, discipline and understanding.” What does this Proverb mean to you? Can you “buy the truth” or is this perhaps a metaphor? Why shouldn’t you sell it? Why get wisdom, discipline and understanding? Why is discipline good to get? What is truth? Where can you find truth? Is the Bible Truth? Will you learn from this Truth in some way each day for the rest of your life?
Worship Video: The “Haven in a Storm” image above in the Psalms reflection reminded me immediately of the incredible Casting Crowns song “Praise You in This Storm.” I don’t know what it is about all these storm songs on the radio that are resonating with me lately – MercyMe’s “Bring the Rain” being a favorite song – other than I know this: It’s not a matter of “if” storms will come in our life. It’s a matter of “when.” Storms will come. And when they do, we have the option to try to weather the storms all on our own. Or we have the option to invite God into the storms with us. Well, I believe God’s already there with us in the storms even if we don’t realize it – so, I think we can simply open our hearts and praise God in the storms! He will never abandon us or leave us. Even in the midst of the worst storms this fallen world might bring, God is there with us. Will you praise God in the storms?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yr7i5L6kFT0
Do you believe there is a God who is worthy of being praised even in the midst of storms in your life? Click here to get to know God of heaven and earth who is worthy of being praised in the storms!
Please join us in memorizing and meditating on two verses of Scripture today: “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” Galatians 5:22-23 (NIV)
Prayer Point: Pray that you are demonstrating the fruit of the Holy Spirit in your life today. Pray that you have love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control through a saving faith in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior.
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:
Isaiah 33:10-36
Isaiah 33
14 The sinners in Jerusalem shake with fear. “Which one of us,” they cry, “can live here in the presence of this all-consuming fire?” 15 The ones who can live here are those who are honest and fair, who reject making a profit by fraud, who stay far away from bribes, who refuse to listen to those who plot murder, who shut their eyes to all enticement to do wrong. 16 These are the ones who will dwell on high. The rocks of the mountains will be their fortress of safety. Food will be supplied to them, and they will have water in abundance.
There seems to be a Holy boldness that comes upon Christians who are steeped in the Word and know their God. These folks are not easily intimidated on the job, they are full of ideas and are good at problem solving and always strive to deal in truth. The writer of Proverbs states:
THE WICKED flee when no man pursues them, but the [uncompromisingly] righteous are bold as a lion. [Lev. 26:17, 36; Ps. 53:5.] (Proverbs 28:1 AMP)
Galatians 5:13-26
I have read verse 13 wrongly until I read it today. I’ve always had a problem really understanding what seems to me to be contradictory information. Some how I had a disconnect in placing this verse within the context of the book. But today I “got it,” or at least I think I understand it in greater depth then I had before. Our freedom in Christ is freedom from the “curse of the law” and that curse is trying to keep the law, which we can never do.
The curse of the Law could not be the consequences of not keeping the Law because the Law was only given to Israel and sickness and disease ran supreme within Israel and outside of Israel. The “Nations” did not have the law so “The Curse” had to be trying to keep all 600plus laws of the Mosaic Covenant.
I also understand clearer that we have two kinds of desires, those given to us by the Sprit and those that emanate from our “flesh” or sinful nature and they will always be at war with each other. 18 … And the Spirit gives us desires that are opposite from what the sinful nature desires. These two forces are constantly fighting each other, and we are never free from this conflict. Our “job” should be to build up our “spirts” so that we become strong enough to override the “flesh.”
These two things that have spoken to me in today’s New Testament reading and seem to be written so clearly, yet I didn’t get i. This says to me that I must never assume that I have the full understanding or the meaning of a particular scripture and must always be open for correction and enlightenment.
Psalm 64:1-10
1 O God, listen to my complaint.
Do not let my enemies’ threats overwhelm me.
This Psalm of David is not speaking about the presence or actual physical conflict with the enemy overwhelming him but their threats, the fiery words that are spewing out of their mouths. Sticks and Stones may break bones but words can definitely harm us and overwhelm us if we do not run to the High Tower that the Name of the Lord creates to shelter us.
Proverbs 23:23
Mike you wrote,
“Today in Proverbs 23:23 we read: “Buy the truth and do not sell it; get wisdom, discipline and understanding.” What does this Proverb mean to you? Can you “buy the truth” or is this perhaps a metaphor? Why shouldn’t you sell it? Why get wisdom, discipline and understanding? Why is discipline good to get? What is truth? Where can you find truth? Is the Bible Truth? Will you learn from this Truth in some way each day of your life?”
You have asked us some powerful questions. Truth is the core value from which everything flows and that Truth is Jesus Christ. (John 14:16) Truth is that Pearl of Great Price for which the merchant sold everything he had to posses it. (Matthew 13:46). Yes, Truth can be bought but not over the counter as a Marketplace exchange. Truth cost us relationships, promotions and positions. Truth may even cost you your family.
Grace and peace,
Ramona
======= Robert:
Ramona: Good statement on truth!
Galatians 5: 18-25
Life by the Spirit
Someone gave me a few proof questions to think about.
1. When are you able to give and receive most love?
2. What brings you most (love) joy?
3. When are you most generous?
Your answers show you are cooperating with the Holy Spirit.
Robert
======== Anka:
The Assyrian commander shouted out so everyone would hear and be afraid….yet the soldiers on the wall held their peace…Their King had told them to be silent.Sometimes the world around us may be overwhelming with chaos and problems….I guess this should be a reminder that in those times we need to trust God and be silent.
God bless you all
Anka
======= Carlo:
i like galatian 5:22_23 if you let go and let GOD run your life the fruit of spirit will be upon you. so itis important to meditate the word of GOD”
Carlo
======== Melissa:
thank you for this blog. i enjoy reading it everyday.
Melissa
======== Ramona:
Isaiah 33:10-36:22
Random thoughts:
Isaiah 33:
But the LORD says: “I will stand up and show my power and might. You Assyrians will gain nothing by all your efforts. Your own breath will turn to fire and kill you. (Isaiah 33:10-11)
It is our sin, our wickedness, which destroys us—sin is its own reward. The Assyrians had no relationship with God yet they could see God, the true God in how He dealt with Israel, in His relationship with Israel. Assyria would feel the effects of the consequences of her actions toward Israel, even though Israel was deep in sin; however, Israel though not in fellowship with God, she still was in relationship.
Isaiah 34:
[God’s judgment against Edom] The strongest will die–veterans and young men, too. The land will be soaked with blood and the soil enriched with fat. For it is the day of the LORD’s vengeance, the year when Edom will be paid back for all it did to Israel (Isaiah 34:7-8)
Edom is Jacob’s brother, aka—Esau, yet to God that does not matter. Jacob/Israel belongs to God and as such how Edom (Esau) treated Jacob/Israel is the determent factor in receiving God’s vengeance. Don’t mess with the people of God even when they are in sin and not doing or being what they have been called to do or be.
Isaiah 36:
There are, it may be, so many kinds of voices in the world, and none of them is without signification. (1 Corinthians 14:10 KJV )
Standing on that wall whose voice to believe, the kings, the officials, the voices in one’s head speaking self-talk, the voice of the other nations’ gods, or the voice of God? How do we know which voices to filter out, which voice to listen too. We trust based on experiences. How do we trust a God we cannot see? We trust sitting in a chair because we have sat in them before and they held our weight. It is easy for us to read about those who went before us and declare, I wouldn’t do that, yet in the end we really don’t know whose voice we will listen to until there comes a time that many voices begin speaking to us. Which voice will we choose to hear and then obey? How do we know we really trust God until the time comes to pick his voice out of a chorus of many voices.
Grace and peace,
Ramona
======== Johnnie:
One of my all time favorite songs! I love it — when we praise Him in the storm He is there. I know for me He seems to be more present with me when I’m going through something — although I know He is always around.
Thanks for the reminder.
Johnnie
======== Mae:
Needed this song, thanks! I’m going through a storm right now, the enemy is breathing in my neck. I just got a breakthrough, so he’s not happy. God is my shelter …
Mae
======== Heidi:
You know…..every time I hear Casting Crowns “Praise you in this Storm”….I immediately flash back a few years ago….
….I used to work in a quaint little Christian bookstore. I loved it there so much. It was so Christ-centered, and the co-corkers were amazing; I planned to bring my kids in there one day, and I told the rest of the staff that when I died I wanted to be buried under the floorboards, haha!
Well, like many good things, it all eventually came to an end. The company was too far in the hole financially to redeem itself and we had to close our doors. It was one of the hardest days of my life.
I remember on the very last day of work, I got to the store really early, put on my rollerblades, and decided to have a shake around the store. Someone had left Casting Crowns latest CD in the CD player, and that song came on. I remember feeling the breeze in my hair as I sailed around the music section, fiction, gifts. I didn’t understand why my little bookstore had to end when so many other un-godly businesses were flourishing. I was heartbroken, sad, and frustrated. But……I knew regardless of how I was feeling, I had to “Praise him in this storm”.
It stayed with me all these years, and now whenever I hear it, I remember sailing around that bookstore. Good times…..
Thanks. :*)
Heidi
========= Suzanne:
So blessed! I read 4 days of your blog today to catch up. I keep my own blog where now and then I am moved to give a spiritually filled message. I had an odd week where through my career path I am in contact with those who have experienced a loss of a loved one- who had gone missing at the hands of another, this week I was perplexed on what my next blog entry would be following such a loss, that I posted about just a few days before….I sat down and without knowing what to type….I just typed…and typed. after reading what I had written I named the blog “faith”. When the Holy Spirit moves within and we don’t know what to say it will lead us where we ought to be. I was double blessed to read your blog entry and find you had written quote “New Testament – I love Paul’s teaching in Galatians 5 verses 22 & 23 today – “But when the Holy Spirit controls our lives, he will produce this kind of fruit in us: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.” It is incredible I think for each of us to really meditate on this question – does the Holy Spirit control your life? I think so often – even after coming to faith in Christ – we still try to hold onto the controls of our life! I know I do. And yet, when I finally realize that I should instead “let go, and let God”, my life gets 100 times easier. I don’t stress and worry about things any more. When I let myself be controlled by the Holy Spirit I finally realize that this is where true LIFE is at! It’s not in hanging on so tightly to the steering wheel… Then, as we truly let the Holy Spirit control our lives, we begin to see amazing fruits being born in us! Do you see these fruits in your life today? Love? Joy? Peace? Patience? Kindness? Goodness? Faithfulness? Gentleness? Self-control? How are you doing on letting the Holy Spirit control your life these days? Who is holding on to your steering wheel – you or the Holy Spirit? Will you now let go of that steering wheel? Will you “let go, and let God.” Will you let the fruits of the Spirit fully grow in your life? End Quote”
Your blog gave me confirmation. Thank you for your gift(s) 🙂
Would those who read here please pray for “Tina” she is the mother who recently found out her children who had gone missing at the hands of their father a few years ago. It has just been revealed that he did the unthinkable and they have passed. Please pray for her to be comforted.
Thank you,
Suzanne
======== Lynda:
this highway spoken of in isaiah i believe is a metaphor of how a christian is suppose to live. i don’t think it will ever be a real road.
Lynda
======== John:
Isaiah 35:8
And a highway will be there;
it will be called the Way of Holiness.
The unclean will not journey on it;
it will be for those who walk in that Way;
wicked fools will not go about on it.
If you remember back in Acts when Paul was on trial, the sect that Paul represented was not called Christianity – but “the way”
Whether figurative or literal here, the “way of Holiness is for those that walk (believe in Christ) in that “way”. It is not for the unclean and fools (non-believers) – theirs will be a different lot.
John
======== Henry:
All the above laws are wrapped in this one simple law
Galatians 5:14,15
14For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: “Love your neighbour as yourself.” 15 If you keep on biting and devouring each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other.
Henry
======== Felix:
May God bless u for this great work you are doing.
Pastor Felix
========= Reuben:
This passage with the Rabshakeh always reminds me of the dialogue with the Mouth of Sauron in the movie version of The Return of the King.
Reuben
========= Lily:
Galatians 5:22-23 “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law”.
These verses are very convicting for me. I struggle with these fruits of the spirit at times.
Psalm 23:23 “The godly will rejoice in the LORD and find shelter in him.”
Though I am struggling with Galatians 5:22-23, still my refuge during storms is God. He was there when I was diagnosed with lung cancer (though I never smoked) and when I had another health scare with benign breast tumor. He is my strength and my comfort when life throws us a curve ball.
Thanks be to God.
Lily
======= Lizzy:
Dear Lily,
The passage listing the fruit of the Spirit is convicting for all of us! However, it is very exciting to see the Holy Spirit at work in us! Before I was born again, I had very very little patience, peace, gentleness, or self-control. The longer I walk with the Lord, the more I see these characteristics in me!
Praise God! It’s not that we need to try harder to show the fruit of the Spirit~
We just need to draw nearer to Jesus! The Holy Spirit will help “grow” the fruit in our lives.
And remember . . . fruit grows slowly!
Lizzy
======== Lily:
Dear Lizzy,
Thank you for your faith, wisdom and words of encouragement. Yes, sometimes we try soooooo hard but what we really need is trust in the Lord.
As Mike had mentioned more than once “Let go and let God”.
Reading the Bible and being in a Bible group help me listen and feel the Holy Spirit. Praise God for that.
Lily
======= Dee:
I love thinking of the highway to holiness. How beautiful amd a message of hope to Jerusalem against the evil Assyria and Edom..God is in control
Let us walk in the spirit! Love joy peace patience righteousness self control..so many more! Let’s get away from the old sinful nature. Amen! I love the fruits of the spirit
The upright in him should rejoice Amen! Yes I want to remind in Him and like you!
Truth, understanding, wisdom..do nor sell out! They are important..we need those! Amen
Dee
======= Nancy:
I have a thing about words. In Galations 5.22-23 lists the Fruit of the Spirit. The word is singular not plural. There is one fruit. To explain… apple is a category but there are many different kinds & flavors. They are still known as an apple. I believe it is true for the Fruit of the Spirit. Love, joy, peace, etc are the different types but one fruit.
In the added reading was this sentence…
“Many people think the gospel is like an illness; hopefully it is something that will pass.”
When I got married we weren’t Christians. I came to the Lord several years later. The statement quoted was how my husband thought about it. He told the friend that helped me in my walk.. oh I know Nancy she blows hot & she blows cold. I’ll just wait & this will all blow over. He discovered that it wasn’t blowing over because it was real. I was truly saved. It gave me a peace I never had. He came to believe also. So thankful to the Lord for all He has done in my life. Good times & bad, He is faithful & so much more.
Nancy
======== John:
Galatians 5:13-26
Recap: We are free in Christ, and do not need the law. the law hangs over people like a rod to punish them when they sin, it keeps count, it threatens people with disaster. The Spirit undergirds us like a road. It supports us, and if we Love God, and Love our neighbor, we will naturally through the Spirit not commit the transgressions listed in the Law. Out of love we will refrain, not because of any outside threat hanging over our heads.
======================================================
Life by the Spirit
Paul bookends in verse 16 and verse 25 by saying to “walk (live) in the Spirit. Kind of neat to look at the Greek words here for walk (live)[peripateo and stoicheo].
In verse 16 the Greek word means to walk day by day (individually) in the Spirit. In verse 25 Paul exhorts them to also walk, but as in the military – in step, walking together as a Christian community – encouraging and exhorting wach other to stay in rank and walk by the Spirit.
======================================================
The Spirit and the Flesh
Both are intangibles that represent our new life and old life. Some Christians think the old life (flesh)has power – the longer the desires of the flesh are held off the stronger the urges are to sin.
This is not true – Gal 5:24
“Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires.”
The sinful nature is dead – it will not grow or strengthen. We hear echoes of our past and they seem strong, but they are just echoes and will not get stronger. Satan will throw up your past and tempt you to sin, but it is just that – the past. The longer you walk in the Spirit, the stronger your spirit gets, and you will change and grow in your sanctification.
[Note: Remember – you cannot do this – you must yield to the Holy Sprit.]
Over time keep a journal and look back how you acted six months ago, one year ago, five years ago – and you will see the change more readily. God is good – and you will see He is slowly and surely changing you/shaping you into the image of Christ through the work of the Spirit.
======================================================
Gal 5:21b
“…I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.”
Another verse that some take out of context and say – you can lose salvation.
“live like this” or “do such things” in the KJV can actually be translated “practice or exercise” and the Greek Present indicative indicates habitual now and in the future action.
Thus, Paul is saying those that continually practice these sin(s) will not be in Heaven?
Why? Because they are not saved. The person either did not really believe in Christ, or maybe did not trust in Christ and turn their lives over to Him – in sum their hearts were not right before the Lord when they prayed for Salvation.
If you habitually sin or have a weakness that you constantly succomb to over a long period of time. You need to examine your heart, and go to God and Repent and Believe fully in Christ (knowledge, belief, and trust). For a professing Christian to be in this position, only the individual involved and God can sort this out – it is not up to us. All Paul can do is love the person and warn the person.
======================================================
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.
Do you see these things in your lives? I can testify that before Salvation I had few to almost none of these characteristics. Now I see them in my life and in my Spirit – and there is nothing like it. God provides these things after Salvation, and they are great gifts and provide great comfort to the Christian believer.
John
======= Renee:
Is. 33:4-6
4 say to those with fearful hearts,
“Be strong, do not fear;
your God will come,
he will come with vengeance;
with divine retribution
he will come to save you.
5 Then will the eyes of the blind be opened
and the ears of the deaf unstopped.
6 Then will the lame leap like a deer,
and the mute tongue shout for joy.
Water will gush forth in the wilderness
and streams in the desert.
Gal. 5:22-26
22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. 26 Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.
Ps.64:
9 All people will fear;
they will proclaim the works of God
and ponder what he has done.
10 The righteous will rejoice in the Lord
and take refuge in him;
all the upright in heart will glory in him!
To me…Truth is a person and a gift. When I came to Christ, I felt as if I was given the most valuable treasure and possession. Never to be given away, but shared. And, wisdom, discipline and understanding are gifts we need to ask God for more of and learn from them.
Proverbs 23:23
“Buy the truth and do not sell it; get wisdom, discipline and understanding.
Shalom
Renee
======= Angela:
Galatians 5:24 really stood out to me. It says that when we committed ourselves to Jesus Christ, we not only crucified ourselves with Christ but also our desires. So when we give ourselves to God, we also give up our earthly desires. (The desires of the flesh are in contradiction with the Spirit, so that’s why we have to give it up.) If we want to walk with the Spirit, then we must become in agreement with the Spirit.
I think this verse also connects with Matthew 6:24: “You cannot serve both God and money”. These two verses are similar because God does not agree with earthly things, and both verses teach this. You can only choose one: God OR money/earthly desires. I hope we all choose God.
Angela
======= Vance:
Isaiah 33 (NKJV)
10
“ Now I will rise,” says the LORD; “ Now I will be exalted, now I will lift Myself up.”
11
“You shall conceive chaff, you shall bring forth stubble; your breath, as fire, shall devour you.”
NOTE:
Note this thought provoking verse: “your breath, as fire, shall devour you.” Every word we speak, to ourselves or to others, we are accountable for. Our words will be the basis of blessing or judgment. Words carry death or life.
I RECEIVE THIS CHALLENGE—that God would help me to be sure guard the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart.
Psalm 19 (NKJV)
14
Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O LORD, my strength and my Redeemer.
Proverbs 18 (NKJV)
20
A man’s stomach shall be satisfied from the fruit of his mouth; from the produce of his lips he shall be filled.
21
Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit.
Matthew 12 (NKJV)
35
A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good things, and an evil man out of the evil treasure brings forth evil things.
36
But I say to you that for every idle word men may speak, they will give account of it in the day of judgment.
37
For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.”
Isaiah 33 (NKJV)
15
He who walks righteously and speaks uprightly, he who despises the gain of oppressions, who gestures with his hands, refusing bribes, who stops his ears from hearing of bloodshed, and shuts his eyes from seeing evil:
16
He will dwell on high; his place of defense will be the fortress of rocks; bread will be given him, his water will be sure.
NOTE:
“ Now I will rise,” says the LORD; “ Now I will be exalted, now I will lift Myself up.”
God will arise, because is already the Most High, the Sovereign Ruler over all. When God says, “ Now I will rise” and “ Now I will be exalted”, I take this to mean that God’s very nature as “Sovereign” and “Ruler Over All” will become manifestly evident to you and to me.
Thus, God says, “Now I will lift Myself up.”
I CHALLENGE MYSELF, first of all, and then I CHALLENGE YOU to take time to regularly praise and worship God. GOD WILL BE EXALTED one way or the other. May He—according to His greatest wish—be exalted in MERCY as we receive Him and allow His Mercy and Wisdom to be applied to our lives!
The person who has been cleansed by the Lord Jesus will exhibit the qualities of verses 15 and 16—that is, we will love God with all of our hearts and we will love our neighbor as ourselves.
Then, our obedience—out of a heart dedicated to worship—will further establish our lives in God’s Goodness and Righteousness.
On the one hand, a real faith is killed because it is “work-less”:
James 2 (NKJV)
17
Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.
26
For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.
On the other hand, works and actions through worship builds up and strengthens our faith.
James 2 (NKJV)
22
Do you see that faith was working together with his works, and by works faith was made perfect?
May the following verses become our experience through faith and patience:
Isaiah 33 (NKJV)
5
The LORD is exalted, for He dwells on high; He has filled Zion with justice and righteousness.
6
Wisdom and knowledge will be the stability of your times, and the strength of salvation; the fear of the LORD is His treasure.
~~~
Isaiah 35 (NKJV) – The Future Glory of Zion
1
The wilderness and the wasteland shall be glad for them, and the desert shall rejoice and blossom as the rose;
2
It shall blossom abundantly and rejoice, even with joy and singing. The glory of Lebanon shall be given to it, the excellence of Carmel and Sharon. They shall see the glory of the LORD, the excellency of our God.
3
Strengthen the weak hands, and make firm the feeble knees.
4
Say to those who are fearful-hearted, “ Be strong, do not fear! Behold, your God will come with vengeance, with the recompense of God; He will come and save you.”
5
Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf shall be unstopped.
6
Then the lame shall leap like a deer, and the tongue of the dumb sing. For waters shall burst forth in the wilderness, and streams in the desert.
NOTE:
Note God’s truly amazing grace. He is holy, and His Presence of Glory will judge sin. We admire purity, and we can only be pure through His Grace and Mercy in fellowship with the Lord Jesus.
Note that even though God must judge the sin of His people, the plan for His people will not be thwarted! God will complete our salvation, and we will know God’s deliverance and freedom that Jesus has paid for.
Then, we will be more equipped to serve others in the strength of the Lord!
Isaiah 36 (NKJV)
21
But they held their peace and answered him not a word; for the king’s commandment was, “Do not answer him.”
NOTE:
Do not answer the enemy when he provokes you.
Galatians 5 (NKJV)
16
I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh.
17
For the flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; and these are contrary to one another, so that you do not do the things that you wish.
NOTE:
Our human nature wants to be comfortable instead of godly, wants to be selfish rather than to serve. Because of the sinful and fallen condition of humanity, it is now “natural” that our sinful human nature wants to do the opposite of what our new nature in Christ wants or what the Spirit of God wants.
We can take comfort in the fact that we know we are made new creations in Christ by His Mercy believed and received precisely because we feel the struggle between flesh and Spirit.
Galatians 5 (NKJV)
24
And those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.
25
If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.
NOTE:
Christ has completely crucified the sinful nature, and in Christ our old man and sinful nature are totally dead.
“In Christ” – this is our position, settled once for all by the “once for all, eternal sacrifice of Jesus”
“Abide In Christ” – this is the way that we can experience who God has already made us in Christ. As we abide—that is remain and rest in Christ, not being moved from Christ—that “we live in the Spirit” and “we also walk in the Spirit”.
Vance
Martin Luther is a giant of faith. He and his faith are still alive in the Presence of Jesus. Note some of his commentary on Galatians:
GALATIANS 1
VERSE 1.
O foolish Galatians.
Paul reproves the Galatians rather sharply when he calls them “fools, bewitched, and disobedient.”
Grace does not suddenly transform a Christian into a new and perfect creature. Dregs of the old and natural corruption remain. The Spirit of God cannot at once overcome human deficiency. Sanctification takes time.
VERSE 1.
Who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth?
Since the devil has this uncanny ability to make us believe a lie until we would swear a thousand times it were the truth, we must not be proud, but walk in fear and humility, and call upon the Lord Jesus to save us from temptation.
Although I am a doctor of divinity, and have preached Christ and fought His battles for a long time, I know from personal experience how difficult it is to hold fast to the truth. I cannot always shake off Satan. I cannot always apprehend Christ as the Scriptures portray Him. Sometimes the devil distorts Christ to my vision. But thanks be to God, who keeps us in His Word, in faith, and in prayer.
VERSE 2.
This only would I learn of you, Received ye the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith?
We must learn that forgiveness of sins, Christ, and the Holy Ghost, are freely granted unto us at the preaching of faith, in spite of our sinfulness. We are not to waste time thinking how unworthy we are of the blessings of God. We are to know that it pleased God freely to give us His unspeakable gifts. If He offers His gifts free of charge, why not take them? Why worry about our lack of worthiness? Why not accept gifts with joy and thanksgiving?
GALATIANS 5
VERSE 6.
For we through the Spirit wait for the hope of righteousness by faith.
The question occurs to us, What difference is there between faith and hope? We find it difficult to see any difference. Faith and hope are so closely linked that they cannot be separated. Still there is a difference between them.
First, hope and faith differ in regard to their sources. Faith originates in the understanding, while hope rises in the will.
Secondly, they differ in regard to their functions. Faith says what is to be done. Faith teaches, describes, directs. Hope exhorts the mind to be strong and courageous.
Thirdly, they differ in regard to their objectives. Faith concentrates on the truth. Hope looks to the goodness of God.
Fourthly, they differ in sequence. Faith is the beginning of life before tribulation. (Hebrews 11.) Hope comes later and is born of tribulation. (Romans 5.)
Fifthly, they differ in regard to their effects. Faith is a judge. It judges errors. Hope is a soldier. It fights against tribulations, the Cross, despondency, despair, and waits for better things to come in the midst of evil.
VERSE 6.
For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision, but faith which worketh by love.
To think, “If faith justifies without works, let us work nothing,” is to despise the grace of God. Idle faith is not justifying faith. In this terse manner Paul presents the whole life of a Christian. Inwardly it consists in faith towards God, outwardly in love towards our fellow-men.
VERSE 7.
Ye did run well; who did hinder you that ye should not obey the truth?
The words, “Ye did run well,” are encouraging indeed. Often our lives seem to creep rather than to run. But if we abide in the true doctrine and walk in the spirit, we have nothing to worry about. God judges our lives differently. What may seem to us a life slow in Christian development may seem to God a life of rapid progression in grace.
Vance
======= Anka:
“The man who formerly persecuted us is now preaching the faith he once tried to destroy.” 24And they praised God because of me.
What a great testimony and it must have been a huge encouragement for the persecuted church.I guess God knows we sometimes have doubts,it seems like we get the tougher end of the stick than even those who have no regard at all for God…yet like a father he still draws us near.
After I became a christian,I joined a church that seemed pretty big on spreading the word.As time went on I began to ask certain questions in my heart….we were always invited to sow big time into the work of God…yet no mention was made of the poor…if a member was in financial distress he was encouraged to sow a seed etc….we were really encouraged to sow into the lives of our ministers to get a prophets reward…a pastor in one of the satelite churches even decided to take on the name “pastor wealth”.Well after a while I got a scholarship outside the country(which I really didn’t want)and not long ago I also started really studying God’s word with the OYB.Where I’m going with this is that sometimes,we get caught up in the wrong gospel…but when you really want to know the truth,God will make a way…the way may seem a bit tight(really uncomfortable)but well,that’s why it’s called the straight and narrow I guess.
God bless you all
Anka
======== Luch:
I think God calls us to be faithful to each other in being part of the ‘correction process’. Proverbs 9:8,9 says, Reprove a scoffer and he will hate you, reprove a wise person and they will love you. Give instruction to a wise person,and he will be still wiser. Teach a righteous person, and they increase their learning.” The other thought is Proverbs 27:5-6, Better is open rebuke than ove that is concealed. Faithful are the wounds of a friend, but deceitful are the kisses of an enemy.
I guess the key to approaching someone to ‘check them’ is that you have a heart for them and really love them. I wouldn’t just go around ‘correcting people’ unless I have some kind of relationship with them. I think it’s also wise to learn to ‘ask questions’ in a low key way rather than to make ‘pronouncements’ about one’s behaviour. I hope those couple of thoughts are useful to you John.
regarding today’s reading, I love that Paul says “God was pleased to reveal His Son in me”. Isn’t that what our faith is about–having a continual fresh revelation of the Son of God….In gal 2:20 he will say it again, “i have been crucified with Christ. I no longer live but Christ lives in me.” It seems today we are caught up in popular, evangelical religious activity but there seems to be so little of people living in intimacy with Jesus as Paul was promoting. People are propped up by the religious programs that are ‘offered’ a la carte but who is pursuing Jesus with intensity and passion??
Luch
======= Vance:
Proverbs 23 (NKJV)
12
Apply your heart to instruction, and your ears to words of knowledge.
NOTE:
This, to me, seems to summarize the entire reading of the judgments of the nations and of today’s reading.
How we “apply” the heart is key. Our time and what we do with our time is the most precious and important decision we can ever make.
I like this from Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary:
“Here is a parent correcting his child: accompanied with prayer, and blessed of God, it may prove a means of preventing his destruction. Here is a parent encouraging his child, telling him what would be for his good.”
Hebrews 12 (NKJV)
9
Furthermore, we have had human fathers who corrected us, and we paid them respect. Shall we not much more readily be in subjection to the Father of spirits [Heavenly Father] and live?
10
For they indeed for a few days chastened us as seemed best to them, but He [our Heavenly Father with perfect wisdom disciplines us] for our profit, that we may be partakers of His holiness.
Galatians 1 (NKJV)
3
Grace to you and peace from God the Father and our Lord Jesus Christ,
4
who gave Himself for our sins, that He might deliver us from this present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father,
5
to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.
NOTE:
Jesus came that we have eternal life. And eternal life begins NOW. “Greater is He Who is in us than he that is of and in the world” (I John 4)
We are called to live being “deliver[ed] from this present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father” through the working of the Lord Jesus by the sealing of the Spirit.
Galatians 1 (NKJV)
12
For I neither received it from man, nor was I taught it, but it came through the revelation of Jesus Christ.
NOTE:
When the Lord Jesus is revealed to us, He will come to always CONFIRM THAT GOD’S WORD IS TRUE!
2 Corinthians 1 (NKJV)
19
For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, who was preached among you by us—by me, Silvanus, and Timothy—was not Yes and No, but in Him was Yes.
20
For all the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen, to the glory of God through us.
We need always to obtain, and then maintain a personal relationship with the Living Lord Jesus through the Holy Spirit, rooted and grounded in the Word of God and prayer.
Vance
======== John:
Isaiah 15-18
Prophecies of Judgment:
MOAB (JORDAN), DAMASCUS (SYRIA), CUSH (ETHIOPIA OR ?)
Looking up history – all seemed to have been taken down and destroyed (to some degree) by Assyria. That will fulfill the prophecy in the near term – although not exactly, which lends itself to the idea of a long term fulfillment.
======================================================
MOAB (JORDAN)
Moab region of Jordan originally settled (supposedly) by Lot’s eldest son (through incestuous relationship with daughter). Ruth was a Moabite. David sent his parents to Moab for safety during struggle with Saul.
Symbolically, commentators refer to this group of people as “people who profess to believe in God”, but in reality “have no relationship with God”.
Whether literal or symbolic, God will judge the people represented. It seems that there are people left in the end.
If literal, God is said to spare Jordan, because that is where the remnant will flee to (Petra, Jordan) during the Tribulation, and those Jordanians (that are left) will become “believers” with the remnant?????
If Moab symbolic of some group – there will be some portion of those people who are “false positive” in their faith that will convert during the end times.
Is16:5 is cited in Acts15:16 as an indication that this is a time when Jesus will return to “rule”. Reaffirming that this is talking about the “end times” – millenium period???? First the Gentiles will be harvested for the “believers”, and when that is done God will turn back to the remnant (Israel), and establish His throne (David’s).
======================================================
DAMASCUS (SYRIA)
Is17:1
“An oracle concerning Damascus:
“See, Damascus will no longer be a city
but will become a heap of ruins.” NIV
This is the verse people and prophecy sites kept citing during the recent conflict in the Middle East. The Syrians acknowledged that their military was on alert, and aircraft was manned 24/7 during that conflict. It does not take much of an imagination to paint a scenario where Damascus, as a city, would be at risk. “Heap of ruins” means there ain’t no rebuilding.
Symbolically, this would be the people that reject and have always rejected the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. For these people in end times there rejection will seal their “complete doom”.
Isaiah here does not say how this will happen, just that it does. Seems the destruction of the state and it’s citizens is complete. The judgment of God on a people who have historically been at war with Israel since the time of Book of Kings, and have continually rejected the God of Israel.
NOTE: Pre-trib rapture works in nice here in that if there are “believers” in Syria – they will not be around for this destruction.
Bottom-line: This is another place where you do not have to understand or interpret Prophecy to come to grips with Jesus’ return. Can you see elements in Isaiah that have come true or seem very likely to come true soon. If you can picture an escalating scenario where Damascus is at risk…..then…
….are you praying for salvation of loved ones and friends? Are you living with a sense of urgency in Christ? Do you share the gospel when presented the opportunity?
======================================================
CUSH (ETHIOPIA OR ?)
Ethiopia, Group of African nations, Nations of the world, the United States????? A lot of speculation here, but in the end there is nothing new in the chapter.
There will be judgment and then gifts (worship) to the ruler of the world (Jesus). The judgement will take out the non-believers, and the people who came to Christ during the Tribulation will be the one’s worshipping along with saints in “glorified bodies” in the millenium??????. (Still thinking this one out 🙂
What did Solomon say, “Nothing new under the sun”? the idea of the world being judged is not new. Even if this is the United States ( a stretch at best) Billy Graham said,
“If God doesn’t judge America He will have to apologize to Sodom and Gomorrah.”
(attributed to Graham)
John
======= Ramona:
Isaiah 15:1-18:7
As I read chapters 15 & 16, I am intrigued by the judgment of Moab. Moab was Israel’s relative, conceived by an incestuous relationship between Lot, Abraham’s nephew, and Lot’s oldest daughter. Ruth, King David’s great-grandmother, was from Moab yet God does not look upon this nation or any nation by considering their blood relationship with Israel/Judah, he looks upon the nation’s relationship to Himself.
I think about how many of us think that we can skate into God’s kingdom based on who and what are in our genealogies. Our access to certain benefits upon the earth and in our countries and communities may be given or denied based on who are parents and forefathers were, but God is a forward looking God. Our past and current connections to great men and woman of God matter not unless we have a current relationship with Him. God has no grandchildren, only children.
Grace and peace,
Ramona
======= John:
Galatians 1
Two for two. I am keeping track of epistles and how many of the problems are “internal to the church” versus external persecution. How does this relate today to the problems of the church? Are most of our problems internal? do they revolve around unsound, watered down, or false gospels?????
======================================================
STERN, SOLEMN, and SEVERE
Galatians does not contain one word of commendation, praise, or thanksgiving. There is no request for prayer, and there is no mention of their standing in Christ. – Paraphrase from J. Vernon McGee
This “letter” is a declaration of emancipation from legalism of any type.
“Galatians is the strongest declaration of and defense of the doctrine of “justification by faith” in or out of Scripture.” – ibid
“Grace is a way “to life” and a way “of life”. – ibid.
======================================================
Paul’s background
and 180 degree turn to Christ.
Like I told my friend Ed – who takes Paul with a “grain of salt”. Either Paul is telling the Truth, and you better take him seriously, or Paul is lying or mistaken – and this whole Christian thing is for the “birds”.
I think when you go from leading persecutor of Christians to leading evangelist for Christians – that should be enough to sit up and take heed of what the man writes in his “letters”. Something happened!!!!
======================================================
Two points
1)patience
I always thought it would be neat to be like Paul. Get knocked off a horse, get up, commune with the Lord, and go out to your ministry.
I did not realize that given the time frames and dates implied in Paul’s bio here that Paul spent close to FOURTEEN years in Arabia. Doing what? My guess, is he was learning the gospel and applying it to what he knew as Pharisee regarding the Old Testament. I would not be surprised if Paul’s tutor here was Jesus Christ.
Makes the last two years I have been studying seem like a pittance. I am much more patient now regarding what God’s plans for me are in this life. If Paul took fourteen years before heading out – who am I to demand less????
2) James – Jesus’ brother
Gal1:19 “I saw none of the other apostles—only James, the Lord’s brother.” NIV
I have stayed away from this in the past, but this is the definative Greek statement in the Bible regarding James’ relationship to Jesus.
I know this will be hard for some to accept, but you need to examine it, and decide for oneself. James is not a brother “in” Christ – James is the brother “of” Christ. The Greek texts are consistent and clear in the grammatical structure of this verse.
Jesus having an earthly half-brother – if true – should have a profound effect on the theology of some “believers”. For others not so much.
Here is a link: analyzing Greek and going to extra-biblical sources starting in section 3.3. If you have a problem with this concept – PLEASE – just read through the article, think about it ,pray about it ,and decide for yourself.
http://www.christianorigins.com/doherty-muller.html
NOTE: One of the explanations given by some is that Joseph, being older, had children before marriage to Mary. But that can not be true. Jesus had blood rights to David’s throne thru Mary, but His legal rights (the “male” line) to the throne of David came through Joseph as the Eldest Child (adoptive status is same as natural status in those times). To be the eldest child with the legal rights to David’s throne – there could be no pre-existing living offspring of Joseph. Any other offspring of Joseph had to be after Jesus’ birth. God pays pretty good attention to “detail”, He does not violate standards He previously set up, sooooo……
John
======= Bethany:
This reading today in gal. ch. 1 was really speaking to me.
also with what you wrote about no-one appointing you to do this web-site missionary outreach …well, God used what you wrote today to really speak into my heart about what my mission will be!! thank you, and God Bless your efforts. You really are reaching people, whether you know it or not!
your friend,
Bethany
======= Susanne:
Haha!!!
Yup…. “Dive” was my same immediate thought!!!!!
…. sink or swim- just dive in! The outcome is of the Lord. He will bless obedience and choice to follow the Spirit’s lead. Mike- you are a testimony- worldwide!!! Thank you.
I’ve “senced” your CALL and i pray right now… in the Name of Jesus… a hedge of protection against anything that makes you “feel unqualified”. Lord, please bless Mike with courage to be simple, yet bold in sharing Your love with others and creativity to do it in all his “weakness”. Thank You Lord that You choose weak & show forth Yourself for me to “see”. I am encouraged and more! AMEN
In His Love, with a grateful heart, ~susanne
p.s. today our 2 sisters, Jen & Mae will meet personally! i share this for prayer request to any who are led. Jen has had somewhat of a challenge and asked for prayer regarding her father & cancer. i’m also sharing cuz i’m so excited for them both… excited to see God at “work” and how He ordains divine appointments!
Susanne
======= Jake:
Thank you for the UTube music. Today I want to dive into the bible and life with my Lord.
Jake
======= Karen:
I think, Mike, that the beauty of what you are doing is that it sets the mind to thinking more on what was read this morning. Sometimes we have a tendency to read it and forget it. You get one to pondering a bit more on just what was meant by what we read. Also, your referrals to other sources gives opportunity to dig deeper. I thank God that you have given so much thought to this Bible blog. HUGS!
Karen
======= Shari:
Mike, what you are doing is helping those who have not understood the bible be able to see it in a way that is a part of our daily lives. Please continue this for the thousands of people around the
world each day who depend on you. Blessings, Shari
======== Billy:
Mike, Praise the Lord !! that you were called to write this blog.
Billy
======= Anita:
Mike, I thank God and you every day that you were called to write this blog. This is the second year that I have participated in this blog and have gained so much from yours and Ramona’s comments and insights.
Anita
======= Bob:
Galatians: Sometimes the smallest voice we hear is the most profound. I was given a simple image of a Pastor’s collar just at the end of an intense Men’s Bible Study that provoked me to search out exactly what in Proverbs 23:12 we read: “Apply your heart to instruction and your ears to words of knowledge.” Now I am in Seminary. A call that I would resonate with what Martin Luther writes. “…do not become a teacher or preacher, in fact try to avoid it because it should be God that promotes you to that responsibility. It has to be in your bones and a burning fire in your soul to be God’s representative.” (Re: Acts 1:11-23)
Bob
======= Michelle:
Thank you for your dedication to this ministry. For years I have read with you as time and internet access allow. God is always so faithful.
Michelle
======= Jane:
Galatians 1:10 really spoke to me this am. I feel like I spent an eternity being s people pleaser. Being brought up in s large family I was taught not to ruffle feathers and promote peace. And to repress anger. Over time I learned not to have courage but seek to please. That’s different than what the bible teaches. It says please only God. Wow. I hsve learned this the hard way. Because I drilled this with control issues into my kids. I’m learning courage to speak up and give God glory and to seek to please God by biblical teaching
Jane
======== Sandra:
MIKE ,I BOLDLY APPLAUSE U FOR THIS BIBLE STUDY. GOD WORKING NG THRU U.I CAN SEE HOW DEEP U SEARCH AND MAPS,PICTURES AND THE MANY THINGS U POST ARE SO ENCOURAGING. MAY GOD EVEN DEEPLY BLESS U MORE. I ENJOY!!!!
Sandra
======== Imja:
Is. 16:5
In love a throne will be established;
in faithfulness a man will sit on it—
one from the house[c] of David—
one who in judging seeks justice
and speeds the cause of righteousness.
Gal. 1:10 and 15
10 Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.
15 But when God, who set me apart from my mother’s womb and called me by his grace, was pleased 16 to reveal his Son in me so that I might preach him among the Gentiles, my immediate response was not to consult any human being.
Ps.58:11
11 Then people will say,
“Surely the righteous still are rewarded;
surely there is a God who judges the earth.”
Proverbs 23:12
12 Apply your heart to instruction
and your ears to words of knowledge.
Shalom to all 🙂
Imja
======== Nancy:
Seeing how the church was influenced by false teaching caused me to think about what is happening today. Denominations are splitting over doctrine. Conservative vs liberal.
The liberals believe that gays should become ministers of the gospel. That it is not a sin to be gay. That the word homosexual only showed up in a 1947 translation & that it wasn’t the sin that condemned Sodom & Gomorrah. Conservatives believe that it is a sin.
I believe gay people can attend the church to become saved. Once saved they need to denounce that life style & strive to overcome it. Similar to a drunk becoming sober, or a thief to not steal etc. Ephesians 4.28. We all have sins we need to overcome.
My understanding is that the Liberals do not see it that way. That a person can continue in that lifestyle & be saved. They can become ministers of this gospel.
It is tragic what is happening, a new believer left my church to attend a liberal church because of it. Another person I’ve known for years lives in that life style & believes they were saved as a teenager. They quote scripture they believe support that lifestyle.
I believe 2 Corinthians 4.4 niv explains why this is happening.
“The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel that displays the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.”
Our world has lost its mooring. Whether these are the last days are not I can’t say. The early church was under Nero a horrible man & still the church survived. My prayer is to stand strong in these dark days & pray.
Nancy
========= Dee:
The Moabites..these were discussed on how they wanted to attack Israelites but saw the sz of Israel. They tried cursing Israelites but couldn’t get leaders to curse them. We always have a Moab in our life and there are always “Israelites”. What are we going to do? How will we react.?
Galatians..such a good book. Paul doesn’t beat around the bush telling that there is only one way and God’s Word is eternal..he is so bold and forthcoming and filled with the spirit.
Psalm 58..it talks about judging..are we in the right frame to judge? Can we should we,,?
Instruction and knowledge. Make sure you check on wisdom and have a knowledge deep and secure. Amen
Dee