Bible in a Year Blog

Joshua 21:1-22:20 + Luke 20:1-16 + Psalm 89:1-13 + Proverbs 13:15-16
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Old Testament – In Joshua chapter 21 we read about the towns given to the Levites, the priestly tribe appointed in the Mosaic Law for the service of the Tabernacle and of the Temple.  It seems very wise that the Levites are given towns throughout the various tribes of the Israelites.  In my mind this is spreading out the priestly tribe strategically.  Can you imagine if the Levites were all in just 1 location?  It seems to me that there would be a vacuum of spiritual leadership in the tribes if the Levites were not dispersed in the manner which they were. How does reading about the Levites being dispersed remind you of the church today? Is the church dispersed throughout the world today a good thing? What are your thoughts on the benefits or drawbacks of denominations?

In Joshua chapter 22 verse 10 today we read: “Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh built a very large altar near the Jordan River at a place called Geliloth.”  The place where our readings end today in verse 20 is quite a cliff-hanger!  Note that verse 20 is not the end of chapter 22, and as Paul Harvey says, in tomorrow’s readings you will get “The Rest of the Story.”  🙂

New Testament – Okay, so it’s every so often that I post up about the non-Biblical (not the original text) sub-headings that translations put into our daily readings.  For some reason I got a kick out of the NLT’s subheading above Luke chapter 20 verse 9, “Story of the Evil Farmers!”  (okay, I added the exclamation point).  Is it just me, or is that kinda funny?  I mean, the evil farmers in the story are not funny – and what they did is certainly not funny…  hmmm… I think I’ve dug myself into a hole here.  🙂  I’m sure everyone probably picked up on that the point of the farmer story is that Jesus is the son who was murdered in the story.  And Jesus is the stone rejected by the builders – who has now become the cornerstone of our Christian faith.  Nice quote by Jesus of Psalm 118 verse 22 there in Luke 20 verse 17.  Is Jesus the cornerstone of your life?

Bible.org’s commentary on our Luke chapter 20 readings today titled “The Tempest in the Temple: The Abuses of Authority” is at this link and commentary titled “God and Government” is at this link.

Psalms – Psalm 89 verse 11 is so powerful for us to remember – “The heavens are yours, and the earth is yours; everything in the world is yours–you created it all.”  Everything in this world is God’s.  Everything.  This means every single person we meet is God’s.  However… they might not realize it.  But, I think it is important for us to remember that every single person we meet – no matter how “bad” they may seem or whatever – is still made in the image of God.  And there is the possibility of that person getting to know they are God’s.  There is the possibility of redemption – not by our human power, but by the power of God.  I think sometimes we go through our day thinking the world is bad.  People are bad.  It all is bad.  And certainly, it is a fallen world.  But it is still God’s world – and yes, the devil is thrashing around his temptations as rapidly as he can in the hearts of men and women.  This is the great spiritual battle.  But, God is so much stronger than the devil.  The name of Jesus expels the devil quicker than anything.   So, know that while we are in a fallen world, it is God’s world.  Everything in this world is God’s.  What are you and I doing to let others know that they are God’s – particularly if they don’t know it?  What are we doing to bless others with the knowledge that there is another Way than the devil’s temptations in this world?  What are we doing?  Really.  What are we doing with our lives to let others know about Jesus?  Whew… this one gets to me for some reason.  There are people suffering so much in our world.  If only they knew there was another way….   Will you help to show them to the Way? 

Continuing on the thoughts in the paragraph above – take a moment to reflect on this image below.  Wow… Can you make out the angel on the right coming from the prayers of the woman to defend her from the evil one?  Who are we praying for today to defend them from the evil one?

Psalm 89 verse 13 today – “Powerful is your arm! Strong is your hand! Your right hand is lifted high in glorious strength.”  Amen and Amen.

Proverbs – Proverbs 13 verse 16 is great – “Wise people think before they act.” 

And I agree with this.  My one additional thought is don’t think for too too long!  I know some folks that like to think… and think…. and think…. and this is good…. but there is also a time for action.  There is a time to move and get involved in the advancement of God’s Kingdom.  Yes, let’s think about how we’ll do this – but then let us act!

Worship Video: Psalm 89:11 reminded me of the Steven Curtis Chapman song “Yours:”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Vu9m8m1lEw

Do you believe it is all God’s? Click here and give it all to Him!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on a verse of Scripture today: “The heavens are yours, and yours also the earth; you founded the world and all that is in it.” Psalm 89:11 NIV

Prayer Point: Pray in thanksgiving to God for all of the blessings He has given us here on this earth. Pray that you will treat everyone and all thing’s as God’s – and not yours.

Comments from You & Questions of the Day:  Are you someone that thinks before you act?  Or do you sometimes act before you think?  🙂  If so, can you meditate on this Proverb, memorize it, and put it into practice?  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:

Joshua 21:1-22:20
1 Then the leaders of the tribe of Levi came to consult with Eleazar the priest, Joshua son of Nun, and the leaders of the other tribes of Israel. 2 They spoke to them at Shiloh in the land of Canaan, saying, “The LORD instructed Moses to give us towns to live in and pasturelands for our cattle.” 3 So by the command of the LORD the Levites were given as their inheritance the following towns with their pasturelands.
God promised but the Levites had to ask for what God promised. This seems to be a principal we should still use today. I am reminded of Hebrew’s 4:16 that encourages us to come boldly to the throne of grace … Often we know or think we are suppose to receive something and if we think we are not going to get what we have been promised we don’t bother to ask. Since we don’t get what we want, we begin to sulk and start to hold grudges against either God or against the person we believe God was working through.
The first three verses of Joshua are letting me know that it is O.K. to ask for what we have been promised just as long as we are asking the right person after having gone boldly to God with our request and direction.
Luke 20:1-16
I believed I touched on this before when we read through this in Matthew (21) and Mark (11), but just as the religious leaders challenged Jesus’ Authority, sometimes we may find someone challenging how we read the “text,” they may even challenge our authority to even read the Bible. I know because in my B.S. (Before Salvation) days I use to challenge people who I saw reading the Bible on public transportation. No, I did more than challenge them; I cursed them out! Be careful who you allow to challenge your right to read the Word, if an unqualified person questions your authority, question his or hers right to challenge you, just like Jesus.
Psalm 89:1-13
11 The heavens are yours, and the earth is yours;
Everything in the world is yours–you created it all.
It’s amazing to think that there is nothing that God doesn’t’ own everything we see, feel, touch, taste and smell belongs to Him so nothing we claim to pocess is ours we are only stewards of His possession and we will have to give an account of how we use what belongs to Him.
Proverbs 13:15-16
16 Wise people think before they act; fools don’t and even brag about it!
Couldn’t understand how “fools” brag but I remember overhearing conversations and participating in discussions where “fools” bragged about their foolishness only I didn’t realize they were bragging. Check bouncers who bounced more checks than the New York Knicks bounce balls; criminals who discus their new and improved criminal tricks they committed just before they got caught the last time and went to jail trading their useless criminality tricks with other foolish crooks.
Grace and peace,
Ramona

======= Anka:

“44 The LORD gave them rest on every side, just as he had sworn to their forefathers. Not one of their enemies withstood them; the LORD handed all their enemies over to them. 45 Not one of all the LORD’s good promises to the house of Israel failed; every one was fulfilled.”
So all the enemies that Israel “couldn’t” overcome were actually enemies Israel chose not to eliminate…
“19 If the land you possess is defiled, come over to the LORD’s land, where the LORD’s tabernacle stands, and share the land with us”….
It would seem that in the mind of the other tribes of Israel, Reuben, Gad and the half-tribe of Manasseh were out of God’s land…in the statement”come over to the Lord’s land”it seems that in their mind,the brothers had taken Land outside of God’s land…could this be the perfect will of God vs the permissible will?Where we ask God for something that we want when He made it clear what His provision for us is…Another thing that struck me was the fact that a nation who once fought together now was thinking of fighting each other,I see this so clearly in church today…as one commented,the wounds inflicted on the flock (body of christ)originate more from the sheep than from the wolves!!
:)Wise people also think before they write…I thought psalm 88 was written by David so my comments reflected that yesterday….God bless you all
Anka

======= Kate:

Anka, in re: v 44, No it’s not that they chose not to. It’s that if they cleared out the land completely wild animals would come and take over they land that they didn’t need. Because Israel wasn’t big enough to inhabit the whole land. There is a verse that says it but don’t ask me where it is. I just remember it because it seemed so logical.
Kate

======== Emily:

Forgiveness.
I am going beyond the specific scope of today’s reading. But I wanted to share something that got my heart wrenching. It’s not about me. From the BBC’s website you can watch this interview with Reverend Julie Nicholson who was the ordained Christian priest. Her daughter was killed in the brutal terrorist attacks (London bombings). She displayed remarkable ethics and honesty when she resigned from her post because she COULD NOT FORGIVE the cold murder of her dear daughter.
It is easy to say FORGIVE…The VERY important command of Jesus. Forgiveness is VERY CENTRAL to the Christian message. Well, how do you really apply it to real world…and your own personal life?
Emily

======= John:

Emily,
“Well, how do you really apply it to real world…and your own personal life?”
By forgiving.
When you cannot forgive, when you completely loathe, despise, hate, have “want them dead” feelings,etc. – you go to God.
When you pray, you admit to God that you are not capable of forgiveness in this instance. Just admit it.
Then you ask words to the effect of: ‘Please God, do this for me. Do what I am incapable of doing. Forgive this person for me, and heal my heart. Take this bitterness and hate from me, make me capable of loving this person as you command. Heal me Lord.’
I know this is true, because it is how I have handled immense hatred for two people in my life – God forgave them for me and healed me – healed that hole in my heart. I do not hate them anymore, and I am capable of praying for them.
I have tried to go see these two people for the last year. I am told they are afraid and do not want to see me (by mutual friends), despite any letters or messages I may leave.
Has this woman suffered more than anything I have felt – yes. But I humbly submit – the principle is the same. BBC does this story. Another story of teenage girls beheaded in Indonesia did involve “forgiveness”:
“I am really angry, but the Holy Spirit touched my heart and changed me. I forgive them just as Jesus has forgiven my sins.
Markus Sambuwe, Father of One of the Beheaded Girls”
John

======= Emily:

John,
I understand what you say. I also commend your ability to voluntarily forgive the ones you once hated.
I once had a very intimate discussion on Christianity with a conservative Pastor. Somehow, the discussion turned to the amazing message of forgiveness in the Christian faith. He said that of course we are to forgive but at the same time he mentioned pointing towards his lovely little kids playing in the garden, ”If some of the stuff I read in the papers about child- molesters…if someone did it to my kid…I don’t think I could ever forgive. I would rage and go insane with anger.”Even as he said he was shaking with anger (previously he was all smiles about many tough issues I discussed)
Now, this brings me to something that contradicts the concept of forgiveness. JUSTICE. Broadly, I can menton two points:
1.) That woman owed it to her daughter that she holds indignant feelings towards the killer. If someone killed my mother, brother or some close friends and violated their bodies and life… I personally CANNOT FORGIVE.
2.) We cannot apply forgiveness to the criminal law and justice system even in a state based completely on Christian values. This confuses me again over the OT laws of justice and NT command of forgiveness. I Wonder where the balance lies.
Emily

======= John:

Emily,
“If someone killed my mother, brother or some close friends and violated their bodies and life… I personally CANNOT FORGIVE.”
Completely understandable.
You may not be able to forgive, but God can. That is why you go to prayer and ask him to do for you what you are not capable of doing. He will do it and heal your heart in the process. Besides personal experiance, like Anka – I have seen and heard many accounts of “forgiveness.
The movie “End of the Spear” is all about this topic. The five men, missionaries, were killed, and the women (wives and a sister) forgave and went in the jungle to work and teach the killers. Rent it and watch it.
JUSTICE is another issue. Though we are commanded to “forgive”, there is no reason not to acknowledge the need for justice. Whether from the “state” or from God. Your forgiveness has nothing to do with the justice delievered from “state” or God.
[Note: Justice is to be left to the proper authority – gov’t and/or God. It is not to be meted out by you – that may be the difference you are looking for in OT and NT.]
John

======= Anka:

RE:Forgiveness…..
I listened to the interview and I noted some things.The concept of forgiveness…why we should forgive I felt was not dealt with from scripture…there was really no mention of a cry of help to God…it was all about finding it in her heart to forgive.
Before you behead me for being inconsiderate…I had to forgive a person who hurt my family badly..I knew I couldn’t forgive…I knew I had to…I raged daily(I had to preach the love of Jesus to the person)…each day I continued to pray to God to help me,each day I raged,I prayed…I did end up speaking to the person about God…I made the decision to forgive and I still do daily even though it still hurts,even though it still makes me mad.Jesus cried out to the father to “forgive them”cos he already did forgive his tormentors…as I write now it dawns on me that I never asked God to forgive the person.
I have read of missionaries who have been raped,had their spouses killed…had grieved…then forgiven.Through out their stories you could hear how God worked in their life,it wasn’t just about them or their pain….The reverend said heaven/hell is a state…she was a bit vague about it…I pray she gets to know God intimately because it doesn’t seem she does..Like the priests we have in Romania…I pray for them to really experience God…some things are beyond our powers,forgiving when someone hurts you badly is one of them.
God bless you all
Anka

======= Angelo:

Man, it is oh so very hard at times… I understand exactly what that lady in the picture is feeling with the devil behind. For instance, like right now. I try not to think selfishly, but I dont think that I am doing so well in that area. My birthday is this sunday, and my two closest sisters are not going to even see me. One of them is not coming anymore because the other one isnt. And the other one isnt because she dislikes two of my other sisters and I wanted to see them too on my birthday, but she wasnt going to allow them in her house (we were going to hold the party at her house), so she said that I am now just on the phone call list (just receive a phone call for my birthday). I was taken from my house when I was 14 because of child abuse, and my mom doesnt talk to me anymore because she has taken the side of my step dad (the one who beat and starved me). I dont think any of my family is going to come and see me now and it hurts. My girlfriend is tripping because she wants to go to prom and freak dance with everyone, and I thought it was wrong so now she’s breaking up with me. It doesnt seem like I will have anyone to spend my 21st birthday with, and I try to be a strong individual, but I’m failing. I know and undertsand 1 Cor. 10:13, about God not giving us more than what we can bear, but that doesnt mean that taking it will be easy. Sometimes I just really feel that only God loves me. Just pray for me please that He would strengthen me in this time of weakness. Thank you
Angelo

====== Mae:

Todays Psalms are sooo powerful … yes, I love Psalms, most of you know that! I will pick different verses and make my own prayer, I always LOVE to do that!
“This means every single person we meet is God’s. However… they might not realize it”. ~ Good point! I always try to tell people that they’re God’s and how God loves them, especially when we go out on the streets, most people just have NO IDEA that God loves them! I do my best to show them the way, but it’s hard! I’m glad to feel the Holy Spirit moving in me when I talk to people on the streets. God defenitly puts words into my mouth!
“But it is still God’s world – and yes, the devil is thrashing around his temptations as rapidly as he can in the hearts of men and women”. ~ Can someone help me here? Maybe you, Bible Guy? I was taught that the world belongs to the enemy?
“What are we doing with our lives to let others know about Jesus?” ~ I live my life the best I can. I live out of love … I try my best to love everybody. I’m living God’s word in order to let Him shine through me so others know about Jesus. In the past months people have seen me change and they will ask me how I got to change this much. I’ll tell them it’s because of Jesus. I go on the streets with our church, talking about Jesus … singing about Jesus, doing drama’s about Jesus! It’s wonderful to have the Holy Spirit shine through me and make me a powerful Christian!
Yes, it can be hard some times … thinking about this fallen world. But I’m a fisher of men and I’ll do the best I can to save every single soul I can, from this fallen world!
Proverbs 13:16 “Wise people think before they act.” ~ Yeah … I’m not as wise as I should be … not yet … I’m working on this. I try to be someone that thinks before I act. But I have to admit that it’s not easy at times. I’m praying for this, I ask God for more of His spirit, to give me more wisdom!
Angelo, I’m sorry you have to go through this. This must be so hard for you! You’ll be in my prayers! You’ll be fine … God looks upon your heart and your mind. He knows you and your sisters. He sees what you are facing, so don’t fear, God can give you peace that only He can bring! God bless you!
Mae

======= Jim:

“You created it all.”
Of course, “all” must also include evil. If God is all-powerful, then the bad — the chaos, particularly as it manifests in human suffering — is also God’s work. That conclusion may be disturbing to us, but what is the alternative? A return to a Zorasterian Persian-style of dualism (or similar Eastern concepts of Ying and Yang)? If God is indeed all-powerful, then God must also have created evil (He didn’t just bring order out of chaos, but everything out of nothing). In fact, the inclusion of darkness in the Genesis creation story is designed to help us understand that if darkness is created by God, then so is evil. How, then, are we to worship this God?
Hear O Israel, our God is one — that is, all “bad” in our lives is always meant for our “good.” Our healing needs may include our mind, body, and soul but this God even gives life to the dead. God promises to always provide a way out of every sinful situation in which we may find ourselves.
Jim

======= Lisa:

Thank you for your post Jim, but I must say, I am confused about your statement regarding the topic of God, Creator of all in which you also included He created evil – so I did a little research.
In the King James version it says: “I form the light, and create darkness: I make peace, and create evil: I the LORD do all these things.” (Isaiah 45:7); so at FIRST glance, you can say yes, God did create evil, but one needs to probe a little deeper.
What does the word “evil” mean?
“First of all, the Hebrew word for evil “rah” is used in many different ways in the Bible. …
… We can see that the Bible teaches that God is pure and does not approve of evil, that the word “rah” (evil) in Hebrew can mean many things, and that contextually, the verse is speaking calamity and distress. Therefore, God does not create evil in the moral sense, but in the sense of disaster, of calamity.” 
Another thought – continued.
The word “evil” is used in the KJV; while “calamity” is used in other translations.
In the NET Bible First Edition, I will post the scripture and the footnotes (the footnotes are indicated by the numbers 13tn, 14tn and 15tn) which corresponds to the numbers within verse 47.
45:7 I am13 the one who forms light
and creates darkness;14
the one who brings about peace
and creates calamity.15
I am the Lord, who accomplishes all these things.
13tn The words “I am” are supplied in the translation for stylistic reasons. In the Hebrew text the participle at the beginning of v. 7 stands in apposition to “the Lord” in v. 6.
14tn On the surface v. 7a appears to describe God’s sovereign control over the cycle of day and night, but the following statement suggests that “light” and “darkness” symbolize “deliverance” and “judgment.”
15sn This verses affirms that God is ultimately sovereign over his world, including mankind and nations. In accordance with his sovereign will, he can cause wars to cease and peace to predominate (as he was about to do for his exiled people through Cyrus), or he can bring disaster and judgment on nations (as he was about to do to Babylon through Cyrus).
http://www.bible.org/page.php?page_id=3086 (download Net Bible for free).
Be blessed and be a blessing!
Lisa

====== Nasser:

psalm 89: 11 it is a good reminder for all believers that everything is god’s own he created everything even bad people are god’s creation but they do not know ,so here come our part the inspired believer to tell them that they are god’s people God owns everyone of us ,teh bad people are blind and far away from the truth that give freedom and eternity so it is your responsibility to go and tell these lost people because if you did not go and tell they will see the light of Jesus and you will be convicted for not witnessing to them about Jesus about the Kingdom of the real God.
proverb 13: 16 think before you act is very important especially when you you are in front of somebody accusing you or insulting you it is important to be slow in speaking quick in listening and slow in anger thinking before acting is a wise thunk to do some people naturaly they are doing it because their personality are like this and some who are fast in acting . how unique God in created everyperson different from others ,this give appreciation to our Creator God the father Amin
Nasser

======= Mitch:

I occasionally find the sub-headings offered us by the editors of various editions illuminating but more often obscuring because they focus us on one aspect of passages that often have many layers of meaning and help. Sometimes they are even wrong! The one you quote is surely not a story about “wicked farmers” not a “vineyard” but about the patient father or the Slain Son? I wish readers in church would forget the titles and just read the scripture, i also wish they would insert the Noun for a pronoun at he beginning of passages to tell us who “He” or “They” are. YIHS Michael
Mitch

======= Frederick:

Re: Don’t know
Luke 20:7
7So they answered, “We don’t know where it was from.”
The religious leaders replied to Jesus that they did not know the authority of John’s Baptism. They verbalised their own spiritual situation. They did not know John the Baptist and consequently, they did not recognise the Son of Man–Jesus.
Frederick

======= Lily:

God knows us, our thoughts, our needs and our hearts. This does not mean that we do not ask God(in prayer). In relationship with our fellow men (e.g. our friends, children, spouses) we assume we know what they know we want, what we are thinking, what they are thinking, or what they. Communication is very important with our relationship with God and with people.
Guilty. I have a tendency to speak before I think. As I grow older, I am starting to pause, think, count one to ten before I speak my mind. How many times we do not allow others to speak while we do our dissertations non stop.
Lily

======= Rosanna:

Thank you for this inspiring message. I am taking a hold of the truth that everything in the heavens and on earth is God’s and that everyone is created in the image of God – so it’s only natural that God wants everyone, no matter what, to be saved into His Kingdom, evangelism should not be hard to do then. Afterall God is greater and more powerful than the enemy, he is defeated, we are victorious in the name of Jesus, so let’s get on with increasing His Kingdom in these last days, God is for us who can be against. We apply who we are in Christ, that’s where all our confidence comes from. I am just getting pumped up to preach the good news to the lost, and usher them in to the Kingdom of God. Have a great day & God bless you all. Your sister in Christ, Rosanna
Rosanna

======= Bob:

Its a Christmas Story but for some reason I picked it today to read to a Senior’s Service. I thought it too much of a coincidence that Paul Harvey is mentioned in our blog today so I thought I would post it. Its very appropriate for Easter!
The Man and the Birds
by Paul Harvey
The man to whom I’m going to introduce you was not a scrooge, he was a kind decent, mostly good man. Generous to his family, upright in his dealings with other men. But he just didn’t believe all that incarnation stuff which the churches proclaim at Christmas Time. It just didn’t make sense and he was too honest to pretend otherwise. He just couldn’t swallow the Jesus Story, about God coming to Earth as a man.
“I’m truly sorry to distress you,” he told his wife, “but I’m not going with you to church this Christmas Eve.” He said he’d feel like a hypocrite. That he’d much rather just stay at home, but that he would wait up for them. And so he stayed and they went to the midnight service.
Shortly after the family drove away in the car, snow began to fall. He went to the window to watch the flurries getting heavier and heavier and then went back to his fireside chair and began to read his newspaper. Minutes later he was startled by a thudding sound…Then another, and then another. Sort of a thump or a thud…At first he thought someone must be throwing snowballs against his living room window. But when he went to the front door to investigate he found a flock of birds huddled miserably in the snow. They’d been caught in the storm and, in a desperate search for shelter, had tried to fly through his large landscape window.
Well, he couldn’t let the poor creatures lie there and freeze, so he remembered the barn where his children stabled their pony. That would provide a warm shelter, if he could direct the birds to it.
Quickly he put on a coat, galoshes, tramped through the deepening snow to the barn. He opened the doors wide and turned on a light, but the birds did not come in. He figured food would entice them in. So he hurried back to the house, fetched bread crumbs, sprinkled them on the snow, making a trail to the yellow-lighted wide open doorway of the stable. But to his dismay, the birds ignored the bread crumbs, and continued to flap around helplessly in the snow. He tried catching them…He tried shooing them into the barn by walking around them waving his arms…Instead, they scattered in every direction, except into the warm, lighted barn.
And then, he realized that they were afraid of him. To them, he reasoned, I am a strange and terrifying creature. If only I could think of some way to let them know that they can trust me…That I am not trying to hurt them, but to help them. But how? Because any move he made tended to frighten them, confuse them. They just would not follow. They would not be led or shooed because they feared him.
“If only I could be a bird,” he thought to himself, “and mingle with them and speak their language. Then I could tell them not to be afraid. Then I could show them the way to safe, warm…to the safe warm barn. But I would have to be one of them so they could see, and hear and understand.”
At that moment the church bells began to ring. The sound reached his ears above the sounds of the wind. And he stood there listening to the bells – Adeste Fidelis – listening to the bells pealing the glad tidings of Christmas.
And he sank to his knees in the snow.
Bob

======= Joyce:

Mike and everyone,
Joshua 22:5 (Amplified Bible)
5 But take diligent heed to do the commandment and the law which Moses the servant of the Lord charged you: to love the Lord your God and to walk in all His ways and to keep His commandments and to cling to and unite with Him and to serve Him with all your heart and soul [your very life].
Appreciate God’s reminder in this verse very much!.
May we believers take diligent heed to do the commandment and the law which God and His faithful servants charge us: to love the Lord our God and to walk in all His ways;
to keep His commandments;
and to each day cling to Him, unite with Him, and to serve Him with all our heart and soul.
Father please help us in doing so!
pray in our Lord Jesus’ name, amen.
Psalm 89:13 (Amplified Bible)
13 You have a mighty arm; strong is Your hand, Your right hand is soaring high.
A sister-in-Christ shared lately that she struggles a lot with fear; and I definitely have struggled with fear too. This verse reminds me of our God’s almighty strength, with Him we can gain victory in all circumstances.
Father, please give us more faith to fight our fears! pray this in Jesus’ name, amen.
Sincerely,
Joyce

======= Jill:

I dont understand the vineyard story. Anyone care to explain
Jill

======= Joyce:

Jane,
Thank you for asking your question!
Thanks God I got to look up some resources to try to understand the vineyard story.
I learned this and am quoting from Pastor Steven J. Cole’s sermon, Lesson 91: Who Owns the Vineyard? (Luke 20:9-18) –
“Jesus told this parable for two main reasons. He wanted to encourage His faithful servants who get beat up and thrown out of the vineyard to keep on being faithful. He owns the vineyard and the main thing is for His servants to bear fruit for Him. Second, He told it to warn those who wrongly think that they own the vineyard that they do not. A day of reckoning is coming!”
Pastor Cole also mentioned Romans 11:22 in his sermon,
“Notice how God is both kind and severe. He is severe toward those who disobeyed, but kind to you if you continue to trust in his kindness. But if you stop trusting, you also will be cut off.” (NLT)
Mike,
for Proverbs 13:16 today, thank you for asking if we are someone who think before we act!
Proverbs 13:16 The Amplified Version reads –
“Every prudent and self-disciplined man acts with knowledge,
But a [closed-minded] fool [who refuses to learn] displays his foolishness [for all to see].”
How I need this reminder!
May God’s Word continue to bless, nourish, and strengthen everyone on this blog.
May God continue to bless that this blog bear much fruit for Him around the world, that many will come to revere Him and His Word.
Thank you Mike, may God remember and reward your efforts!
God Bless!
Joyce

======== Donnita:

Thank you! I just discovered your blog and it is so helpful while going through the one year Bible reading.
Donnita

======= Dee:

In Joshua per distributing the Levites and Mike you talking about a vacuum leadership, made me think of my college class on collaborating teams.. and we talk about enlightenment and vacuum groups..one is ego and other is a taker..not a very good type of leadership.
Based on Luke, I pray Jesus is the cornerstone of my life! I was to stand strong and hold tight to my faith.
Psalms: everything is His and the hall I teach is his..I pray I show people the way more ans show his/her potential
Dee

======= Vance:

Regarding Levites scattered throughout the tribes of Israel, I saw on the news what may be a modern version of this in the ruins of Louisiana after Hurricane Katrina.
~~~
Members of a Baptist church in Louisiana are moving back to their town even though the town is still in shambles because of the hurricane. The Baptist church in Louisiana is being rebuilt in the midst of the wreckage.
I saw an interview with the Baptist minister on the news last night. Many people who were forced to move away from their town because of Hurricane Katrina were driving by, and they came up to the pastor and the members of the Baptist church and asked: “Are you rebuilding this church?”
The pastor or members answered, “Yes.” Upon hearing that, the people asking the question said, “Then, I will be moving back to my town because now I know everything will be all right because you are rebuilding this church.”
~~~
Perhaps something similar happened among the Israelites. The Levites scattered among the Israelites surely must have reminded them of their faith in God and that God is among them — and also of the need to worship, reverence, and obey God.
Surely, where God’s people are thriving, then the surrounding community will be all right.
When in seminary, I heard of stories of darkness and oppression being lifted after a local church fought the spiritual battle to be established in a new area.
Then, the light of the Gospel could penetrate and provide the water of life to the community.
Psalm 89 (NKJV)
1
I will sing of the mercies of the LORD forever;
With my mouth will I make known Your faithfulness to all generations.
2
For I have said, “Mercy shall be built up forever;
Your faithfulness You shall establish in the very heavens.
3
“I have made a covenant with My chosen, I have sworn to My servant David:
4
‘Your seed I will establish forever, And build up your throne to all generations.’” Selah
~~
THANK GOD THAT HE IS A COVENANT- MAKING AND COVENANT – KEEPING GOD!
Vance

======= John:

Proverbs 13
13 He who scorns instruction will pay for it,
but he who respects a command is rewarded.
14 The teaching of the wise is a fountain of life,
turning a man from the snares of death.
15 Good understanding wins favor,
but the way of the unfaithful does not endure
16 Every prudent man acts out of knowledge,
but a fool exposes his folly.
======================================================
Proverbs have many good instructions on how to live life – but again, I think there is deeper spiritual meaning in sets of proverbs from yesterday and today.
Can you see the eternal consequences of these proverbs above?
If you scorn Jesus’ teaching on salvation you will pay (eternal separation), but if you heed – rewarded (eternal life).
Wise is associated with knowing God – Jesus knew God the most – his teaching is the fountain of (eternal) life – turning a man from the snares of death (eternal separation from God).
Good understanding will lead you to be co-heirs to heaven, the way of the unfaithful does not endure – (leads to damnation).
Prudent man acts out of knowledge – knowing God’s Word. Fool’s ignore God’s Word and pay the price.
See the pattern. A challenge – to look at proverbs on two levels – practical advice and spiritual advice.
Solomon may not have realized this point – but the Holy Spirit is the author of the Bible – and there are no coincidences when it comes to God or His Word:).
Proverbs will be a major project for me next year 
John

======== John:

Luke 20:1-26
Passover parallel
The Passover lamb was tied up in temple courtyard and could be inspected by all the priests to see if it was blemished.
Jesus taught in the temple during Holy Week where He was grilled by the temple priests and scribes to find a fault – they failed.
======================================================
The priests and scribes were wanting to know by what authority he cleansed the temple and that Jesus had for teaching. they were hoping Jesus would say – by His authority – thus leading to a charge of blasphemy.
They tried to trip him up with the tax question. But…
“26They were unable to trap him in what he had said there in public.”
======================================================
Parable of the tenants
“Our Lord told a parable using some symbols out of Isaiah 5 that were familiar to the Jewish people. In this story we see a sweeping picture of God’s wonderful plan of redemption over some fifteen hundred years of Israel’s history and how many times the false spiritual leaders sought to try to stop the fruit of redemption from going back into the owner’s hands.” – Ron Ritchie
Pretty straightforward:
The vineyard owner is God the Father;
the vineyard is Israel;
the vine-growers are the spiritual leaders;
the harvest is righteousness and justice;
the owner’s servants are the prophets
the beloved son, heir and co-owner of the vineyard is Jesus
The physical and spiritual consequences of their actions would be that the vineyard owner, God himself, would respond to the murder of his son by destroying the vine-growers and giving the vineyard to others outside of Israel. We now know that the others are his church, the Christian community, which is made up of both Jews and Gentiles. – Ron Ritchie
======================================================
Luke 20:18
“Everyone who falls on that stone will be broken to pieces, but he on whom it falls will be crushed.”
Here again is the picture of salvation. Ever consistent.
Notice it is not broken then falls – but falls then is broken.
We are to come down from our pinnacle of pride and admit we are sinners, then we are broken and become one with the stone. We are then part of the foundation of the Body of Christ – which has been built up over time.
Those that reject Christ – the stone crushes. There is punishment and destruction for that individual – eternal separation from God.
John

====== Jen:

Joshua
The Lord keeps His promises
He lets His people live in peace
The Lord helps and does good things for us
The people were taught to love the Lord, to be faithful to Him, to worship and obey Him with their whole heart and with all their strength just as we are today.
Psalm 89
When we know how great He is. We feel lead to tell others.
Then we will all praise His name forever.
He is the greatest nothing nor no one is better than Him
He rules the oceans and they are under His control
Everything was made by Him and is His
He has the whole world in His hands
Even nature praise Him
Proverbs
If we follow good advice we will do well. Good advice comes from the Lord. It is sensible follow the word of God. Foolish men don’t and they get lost.
Jen

======= Ramona:

Joshua 21:1-22:20
Again, I see the mercy and grace of God giving to Israel the land He Promised. This is a “We being many are One Body in Christ,” event. Yet the tools, the Promise, the divided land, do me no good unless I go out and take hold of it. Not only must I take it, I must utilize it or else I will be like the “servant” who buries his talent in the ground.
Anka you said, >>So all the enemies that Israel “couldn’t” overcome were actually enemies Israel chose not to eliminate…>> This is what I’ve been seeing since we began reading Joshua, chapter 14, when we began embarking on the division and apportioning of the land. How much of what God has given me have I failed to utilize; how much have I been a hindrance to the Body of Christ because I am not functioning the way God designed me to function and utilizing what He has given me? Have I taken “land” that I was not given, because I’ve failed to “capture” what was handed to me?
God forgive us for not taking hold of everything you have prepared for us—Lord have mercy!!
Grace and peace to all: May we take up everything God has blessed us with.
Ramona

Joshua 19:1-20:9 + Luke 19:28-48 + Psalm 88:1-18 + Proverbs 13:12-14
~ 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 – Today we finish up reading about the Promised Land being divided among the tribes!  Below is a great NASA photo with an overlay of a map of the twelve tribes:

In Joshua chapter 20 we read about the Cities of Refuge.  I like that concept – a city of refuge.  A place of refuge.  This is what I think about Jesus today – He is our City of Refuge!  No matter what our past sins are, Jesus can be our City of Refuge if we will run to Him, believe, confess & repent.  Is Jesus your City of Refuge?

New Testament – In Luke chapter 19 today we read about Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem – and of course, this scene of people shouting “Hosanna!” will far too soon turn toward people spitting on and mocking Jesus on the road to Golgotha as he carries his cross.  Bible.org’s commentary on our Luke chapter 19 readings today titled “The Untriumphal Entry” is at this link.

Verses 41 through 44 are so beautiful as Jesus looks upon Jerusalem and cries. It makes sense because he knows that the destruction of Jerusalem in coming in 70 A.D.  Per Tyndale’s commentary today, “In 66 A.D. the Jews revolted against Roman control.  Three years later Titus, son of Emperor Vespasian, was sent to crush the rebellion.  Roman soldiers attacked Jerusalem and broke through the northern wall but still couldn’t take the city.  Finally they laid siege to it, and in A.D. 70 they were able to enter the severely weakened city and burn it.  Six hundred thousand Jews were killed during Titus’ onslaught.”  And so, Jesus wept over Jerusalem…

Psalms – Psalm 88 is quite a Psalm!  Interestingly many churches read this Psalm during their Good Friday liturgies, interpreting this Psalm as a prayer of Jesus suffering on the road to Golgotha.  Take a read through this Psalm again with this perspective… 

Proverbs – Proverbs chapter 13 verse 12 teaches us today: “Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but when dreams come true, there is life and joy.”  Do you see the wisdom in this Psalm? I do hope that each of us realizes that faith in Jesus is not hope deferred.  It is a dream come true in the here and now.  Faith in Jesus brings life & joy now.  And yes, faith in Jesus also brings the hope of glory for eternity.  But, salvation is not all just hope deferred…  It is life & joy now too!

Worship Video: Today’s readings in about Jesus’ triumphal entry in Luke reminded me of Phil Wickam’s song “House of the Lord:”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h8uKldEUrPE

Are you in the house of the Lord? Click here to enter the House of the Lord!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on a verse of Scripture today: “”It is written,” Jesus said to them, “‘My house will be a house of prayer’; but you have made it ‘a den of robbers.'” Luke 19:46 NIV

Prayer Point: Pray that your church is a house of prayer. Pray that your house is a house of prayer. Pray that you are a person of prayer. Pray against any robbers ever appearing in your church, house, or heart.

Comments from You & Questions of the Day:  Has faith brought life and joy into your life?  Do you believe faith in Jesus brings eternal life and joy as well?  Are you looking forward to eternal life and joy in heaven, our eternal “city of refuge”?  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:

Joshua 19:1-20:9
God knows man well enough that he knows we look for revenge when someone we love dearly is killed. We want someone to pay for a death, an accident even when the “victim” of the “crime,” accident participated in the very incident that led to his/her death. We are looking for “payback.” Since those who call out for the death of the “man slayer, themselves deserve death—For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. (Romans 6:23 KJVR)—we are truly sinners crying out for the blood of those who have sinned.
The only one who can pay the price for all of us, the only refuge mankind has, the only place where I can go to satiate my need for revenge, and to keep me from becoming the object of others revenge is Jesus Christ.
Grace and peace,
Ramona

======= Missy:

Thank you for helping me keep my eyes focused on the only thing that really matters.
Missy

======= Michelle:

Prov 13:12 Hope deferred makes the heart sick,but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life.
All these allotment chapters in Joshua which tell us which tribes get which lands gives me a sense of longing, too, for my heavenly kingdom–for the place which will always be mine. And as Mike mentioned the longing for God is not really a hope deferred, so my heart is not sick, because I have the downpayment of the Holy Spirit in my life, guaranteeing what is to come. But I am reminded that I am a pilgrim and that this is not my home.
Michelle

======== Luch:

Psalm 88:18 “You have taken away my companions and loved ones; only darkness remains.” What a sad picture of one who is disconnected from vital, life giving relationships. As the guy who champions the ministry of life groups in our community, verses like this stand out to me, and motivate me to keep on inspiring and helping people to get connected to people.
Without companions and loved ones in our lives there will only be darkness. Tricky thing here is that the psalmist implies that God has ‘taken away his companions and loved ones.’ No doubt this is all done under God’s providential watchful eye, and who of us hasn’t felt this way once in a while in our own journeys when it felt like the Lord removed our relational support world only to cause us to cling to Him. Just as Psalm 73:25, 26 that says, “Whom have I in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire besides youi. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.”
I read a study published by http://www.americanvalues.org called Hardwired to connect, that shows how deeply entrenched in our persons is the need to be in community. No doubt that’s why the psalmist says it feels ‘like darkness’ when loved ones and companions feel far removed.
Luch

======= Emily:

Cities of refuge bit always struck me as something marvellous (though not in the sense Mike suggests). We all know how in modern west all countries have extensive refugee protection quotas and policies. There are people in danger of death, torture, inhuman treatment, arbitrary imprisonment, grave harrassment and other abuses… who may be granted refugee status in the country they seek protection from.
Of course it is sad how illegal immigrants can abuse refugee policies of different countries. But still, the civilized world’s refugee policies can be traced back to the Bible!!!
Even God understood how a government or administration of a country must be humane and extend protection to those-non citizens- in danger!
Compare also with Leviticus sections which instruct that ungleaned bits of crops should be left on ground for aliens and poor. There are commands to treat strangers/aliens with respect (Leviticus 19:34) God’s concerns for non- Israelites has always been apparent. Though God hated Baal worshippers for their corruption but at the same time God loved ALLL humanity.
Emily

======= Laura:

Two verses stood out. Joshua 20:6 reminds me that even unintentional evil is still an evil carrying consequences. Imagine, accidently killing someone and not being able to go home for years, maybe decades.
Joshua 20:6
And he shall remain in that city until he has stood before the congregation for judgment, until the death of him who is high priest at the time. Then the manslayer may return to his own town and his own home, to the town from which he fled.
Psalm 88:18 is a paradox. How is it that the psalmist can passionately cry out to a close God with a complaint about how alone he is? Faith has a lot of stuff that looks rather gray.
Psalm 88:18
You have caused my beloved and my friend to shun me;
my companions have become darkness.
Laura

======= Emily:

Laura,
We are not sure what sort of punishment or criminal laws aliens had. It must be very draconian and inhuman. In that case, the accused (could be falsely accused too) would surely be killed, stoned or tortured to death. Possibly his family would be mistreated too. In short, an unfair and inhuman punishment.
I believe cities of refuge were built to save the life and liberty of such misfortunate individuals, and their families too. I don’t think cities of refuge were there so all the criminals and thugs from neighbouring countries may relax in God’s land.
Emily

======= Mae:

Has faith brought life and joy into your life? Do you believe faith in Jesus brings eternal life and joy as well? Are you looking forward to eternal life and joy in heaven, our eternal “city of refuge”? ~ I truly believe faith in Jesus brings eternal life and joy! Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ brought life and joy into my life. I felt it the minute I prayed, the prayer of forgiveness. I actually felt Jesus took residence in my heart! To be filled with the Holy Spirit has made my life complete! I’m not afraid of leaving this life and turn it into my eternal life. Sure, it has it’s hard times as well, you know, to follow Jesus. But I constantly pray for my true faith in Him. I’m still growing, it doesn’t come all natural to me yet. If you know what I mean. I still don’t know the ins and outs, so I get confused easily. But as I said: I keep growing and I keep my faith in Him!
Mae

======== Jenny:

Luke 19:40 “I tell you that if these should keep silent, the stones would immediately cry out.”
I love that!! Even the rocks would cry out, just thinkin of that is amazing!
Jesus weeping over Jerusalem. : )  Reminds me of an AWESOMe song I heard in Israel, then i heard a guy sing it live here, its amazing.. “Oh Jerusalem, Jerusalem…why wont you believe….” A VERY powerful song…I’ve been searching for it for like 7 yrs! If anyone knows where I can find it, let me know please!
Wow!!I love this Psalm…I can sure relate to this pain and anguish!!
I also love this proverb: “Hope deferred makes the heart sick”…its soooo true! I had this verse posted somewhere cause i had a situation like this and my heart was sick!
“But when the desire comes, it is a tree of life.”….a great promise I cling to!
Am i looking forward to eternal life and joy in heaven? Science cannot measure how quickly my response is!!! YES! =)

====== Jen:

Joshua
He sure is!! Thank you Jesus that you love us so much
Luke
Its sad how the transformation you mentioned happened so quickly
PSALM
Sometimes it may feel as if we have been rejected by God
But if we remember that:-
Safety comes from the Lord
He listens when we pray
He can rescue us
God can forgive us if we turn to Him and confess all
He can lift us up and love us unconditionally
flinging our sins as far and as wide that they will never be seen again
Proverbs
To reject God is foolishness to follow Him has great rewards and leads us home.
Faith in God has changed my life for the better. I wouldn’t be where I am now had it not been for His saving grace.
Jen

======== Lisa:

This verse has stirred my heart today and I can’t let go of it. I feel that my God is walking in the cool of the day with me when I sup with Him in His Word daily (even when I do not understand it):
“…because all the people hung on every word he said.” (Luke 19:48, NLT)
The Amplified Bible adds at the end of verse 48 … “and stuck by Him.”
Then I thought of this scripture: “At that moment, open-eyed, wide-eyed, they recognized him. And then he disappeared. Back and forth they talked. “Didn’t we feel on fire as he conversed with us on the road, as he opened up the Scriptures for us?”” (Luke 24:31-32, The Message Bible)
The powerful majestic Word of God, our Father, is just that! It has a way of me wanting more and more, not getting enough, hanging on every Word when I allow the Word to rightly divide itself (not making it fit for me, but fit for what God has purposed His Word to accomplish through me). Glory to His name.
I encourage my family to stick by the Word and He will draw closer to you today!
Be blessed and be a blessing!
Lisa

======= Kathy:

Hi Mike,
I’ve been reading the OYB blog all year now and I have to admit I’m having a very difficult time with the OT readings. I pray constantly for understanding but have not grown any further than I was 10 years ago. The OT scripture speaks mostly of genocide, slavery, and women as property.
The God that says ‘Thou shall not kill’ and never changes, commanded murder and did change His mind when Abraham & Moses asked Him to. You don’t seem to touch on this subject too much with each commentary. I’m sure there are many resources to read, and I don’t want to give up. But I am growing weary of trying to understand. I’m not sure faith has brought more joy into my life. I feel more disillusioned than ever.
Kathy

======= Lily:

The old testament readings reminds me that God provides refuge to all those who have sinned. Earthly refuge is through the judgement of the land but heavenly refuge is through God’s mercies.
The New Testament readings reminds me of how we have short memories. One day we praise God, the next day we forget God. Christ ransomed us from our sins.
We seem to forget that the house of God (the church) is a house of prayer and worship. We at times turn it to a commercial house.
Lily

======= Teriann:

Today I was struck by how blind we can be to very real spiritual truth. Jesus said that even the rocks would cry out who He was but Jerusalem did not recognize Him. It made me wonder what I miss because I choose not to see. The other point I saw today was similar. The tribe of Dan was assigned a portion of land but found it too hard to conqueror so they went else where. This left a stronghold for the enemy in the middle of Israel and Dan settling for less than God intended for them all because they decided that God’s way was too difficult. I want to be in the center of God’s will for me even if it is difficult. I want spiritual eyes to see the truth and not miss out on God’s best. I want Jesus to rejoice over me instead of weep when He sees how I missed His best.
Terriann

======= Bob:

I love exploring the little nuances that unfold in our readings. One that came up today in Luke 19:30-31 is about redeeming the colt and why does this need to be done? Not only did the Lord redeem man’s sins, he redeemed that donkey from having its neck broken if we look back in Exodus 13:13. It says something about the character of our Lord by this example to show how important words and actions are in everything we do.
Bob

======= Dee:

Well last day of the spreading out of the tribes. So many names but I know those have significance because God doesn’t have anything written that isn’t meaningful later.
Luke..going into with the Triumphal Entry knowing that those same people will spit on and curse later. It’s beautiful in the walk through but sad at the same time especially when you know all and see it
Psalm 88 being written supposedly with Jesus in mind..to know all he did for us in an awestruck thing and to love him more in these moments..wow
Dee

======= John:

Psalm 88
Sometimes referred to as “The Saddest Psalm”, and I have seen it speculatively attributed to Job, Uzziah, Jeremiah, and Hezekiah. If the intent of reciting this psalm on Good Friday is to display the lowest point of sadness before the joy of Ressurection Sunday – I guess I can see it. However, if it is implied that this is a messianic psalm and hence a prayer on the way to Golgotha – I would have problems.
While some Psalms mention resurrection, this psalm seems to embrace the philosophy of Sheol as “soul sleep” or a shadowy existence. It is later (400+ yrs), in Daniel, that resurrection is expressed more explicitly.
“The Torah and Talmud alike focus on the purpose of earthly life, which is to fulfill one’s duties to God and one’s fellow man. Succeeding at this brings reward, failing at it brings punishment. Whether rewards and punishments continue after death, or whether anything at all happens after death, is not as important……”
“Taken together, these early biblical descriptions of death seem to indicate that the soul continues to exist in some way after death, but not consciously.”
“Like all ancient peoples, the early Hebrews believed that the dead go down into the underworld and live there a colorless existence…”
I read somewhere that all the Psalms end in an upbeat manner, or in a plea for an upbeat scenario. I went back over the previous ten Psalms and randomly checked ten others – and this seems to be true. Not so with Psalm 88 – it ends with:
“You have taken my companions and loved ones from me;
the darkness is my closest friend.”
The questions in Verses 10-12 are like as one who is (perhaps selfishly) saying I can better know you and serve you in praise and worship here (alive) than in death (sheol). Perhaps I would be more comfortable with a messianic interpretation if there were some answers to these questions in the affirmative, or an upbeat ending that indicates it is a temporary scenario. Or at least something alluding to more than is presented in the Psalm.
“If we wonder why it is in the Bible, we might listen to the testimony of J. N. Darby. He said that at one time this was the only Scripture that was any help to him because he saw that someone had been as low as that before him.” – Believer’s Bible Commentary
Perhaps I am missing something, and am certainly open to others giving a different view.
[NOTE: I looked up several sites on Sheol and Jewish beliefs in ressurection of the body, these two seemed consistent with others and perhaps a tad bit more readable.]
John

======= John:

Joshua 19
Perhaps of interest:
I wondered why Simeon’s tribe got land inside of Judah’s territory. Forgot about Simeon and Levi being integral in the massacre at Shechem. The tribe of Levi was also scattered as the tribe of priests they received no land.
“Jacob had declared with regard to Simeon and Levi, “I will divide them in Jacob, and scatter them in Israel.” (Genesis 49:7)…
…In regard to Simeon, the dispersion of which Jacob prophesied, manifestly took place when certain cities within the territory of Judah were assigned to his posterity for their inheritance. For although they were not sent off to great distances, yet they dwelt dispersed, and as strangers in a land properly belonging to another. Therefore, on account of the slaughter (my note: Shechem Gen 34:1-31) which they had perpetrated with no less perfidy than cruelty, they were placed separately in different abodes.”
======================================================
Tribe of Dan
The translations here lead to several impressions, but apparently the Tribe headed north for whatever reason. Nothing good came of that – the tribe resorted to idolatry, set up their own priesthood, and had serious problems as we will see later in the Bible.
I wonder if all above would have happened if they had just stayed put – trusted in God – and taken control of their territory?
John

======= Vance:

Cities of Refuge
God is very practical. I can always trust God to be objective, just, and fair even if a person is so angry because I may have accidentally harmed that person’s friend or relative.
I CAN ALWAYS TRUST GOD. Yes, I agree that God alone is my Refuge.
However, (I need to be honest), in an age where the television was my second parent and where it is so easy to find comfort through electronic devices–do I really seek the Lord as my Refuge?
THIS IS THE CHALLENGE to myself and to other. God is the total Source of everything I need, and He should be preeminent in my life.
Regarding the boundaries of the promised land and cities of refuge, I really like the following note from this website, hebrew4christians.com:
The boundaries of the Promised Land are given.
Note that the borders of the land do not correspond with the reality of any historical settlement of Israel, so the actual possession of the land by Israel is yet to be fulfilled. Certain parts of present-day Lebanon and Syria (to the north) were never possessed nor annexed, even during the reign of Solomon.
This is significant, because it disproves the amillennial view that the Church has replaced Israel and that the promise of the land was fulfilled in ancient times.
“Cities of refuge” (arei miklat) are then designated as havens and places of exile for those involved in accidental manslaughter. Cities of refuge were places were the Levites dwelled, since they were apportioned no territories in the Promised Land.
Here the person who committed manslaughter would be safe from the tribal justice of the goel hadam, the closest relative to the person killed.
Interestingly, the refugee must remain in the city of refuge until the death of the Kohen Gadol, showing a connection between the death of the priest as atonement for the loss of life.
***
(Understanding the theology that the church has REPLACED Israel is very important. In a nutshell, this theology teaches that since the inception of the church, all of the promises that applied to Israel now only apply to the church.
MY NOTE: This is very important. Why? Because the theology that the church has replaced Israel was prominent in Germany when Adolph Hitler was Germany’s leader. Since many of the German churches believed that Israel no longer had a place in God’s plan, it gave them a “theological excuse” to ignore the Jewish people when Satan was using Hitler and his government to try to annihilate the Jews)
==> Of course, it is NEVER RIGHT TO have any excuse to
ignore those who are being oppressed, for all people are made in God’s image. And the Jews still have a special place in God’s plan
***
Luke 19 (NKJV)
Note that this is a quote from Psalm 118:26. See Psalm 118:26 in context below.
Psalm 118 (NKJV)
21
I will praise You, For You have answered me, And have become my salvation.
22
The stone which the builders rejected Has become the chief cornerstone.
23 This was the LORD’s doing; It is marvelous in our eyes.
24 This is the day the LORD has made; We will rejoice and be glad in it.
25
Save now, I pray, O LORD;
O LORD, I pray, send now prosperity.
26
Blessed is he who comes in the name of the LORD!
We have blessed you from the house of the LORD.
27
God is the LORD, And He has given us light; Bind the sacrifice with cords to the horns of the altar.
28
You are my God, and I will praise You; You are my God, I will exalt You.
MY NOTE:
Note verse 27, which follows verse Psalm 118:26 —
27
God is the LORD, And He has given us light; Bind the sacrifice with cords to the horns of the altar.
OR… (my paraphrase)
“Blessed is He who comes in the Name of the Lord. He is the sacrifice that is to be bound with cords on the altar.”
Unwittingly, the people in the fickleness and sinfulness of their hearts were used to fulfill this prophecy.
Psalm 88
The persistence of the Psalmist to seek God when He does not make sense in the middle of a very difficult situation makes me think of Job.
I respect Job, especially now as a married man. I mean, the courage and persistence of Job to keep on seeking the Lord in spite of a wife who told him to curse God and die is very courageous and nobe.
And, Job did this in the face of “friends” who, perhaps, really tried to help him– but with their own wisdom instead of seeking the Lord’s wisdom first.
Psalm 13 (NKJV)
14
The law of the wise is a fountain of life, To turn one away from the snares of death.
HOW DO YOU AND I ENTER into the “substance” and “evidence” of life and joy that is in faith?
By meditating on God and His Word, and by giving His Word access to the deepest parts of our beings. Then, when we speak, we speak with a fountain of life flowing out of us through the Holy Spirit.
This life enables us to “reign in life through the One Man, the Lord Jesus Christ” no matter what is happening to us. (Romans 5:17).
Vance

Joshua 16:1-18:28 + Luke 19:1-27 + Psalm 87:1-7 + Proverbs 13:11
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~ Listen to today’s Scripture with Tom Dooley’s **COMMENTARY IS 1 DAY OFF, BUT READINGS ARE CORRECT** terrific NLT 1996 readings at this link or The ESV Bible: OT + NT + Psalms + Proverbs ~

Old Testament – In Joshua chapter 18 verse 1 today we read – “Now that the land was under Israelite control, the entire Israelite assembly gathered at Shiloh and set up the Tabernacle.”  Shiloh was located about 25 miles north of Jerusalem.  The tabernacle remained in Shiloh throughout the period of the Judges, or about 300 years.  We will later read about Samuel traveling to Shiloh with his family.  The tabernacle at Shiloh may have looked something like this –

New Testament – Today in Luke chapter 19 we read the awesome story of Jesus’ interactions with Zacchaeus the Tax Collector. As we read through this story about Zacchaeus “the sinner,” does anything maybe correlate with our life story today? Consider verse 9 – “Jesus said to Zacchaeus, “Today salvation has come to this house, because this man, too, is a son of Abraham. For the Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost.” What does this mean that Jesus came to seek and to save what was lost? Did Jesus seek Zacchaeus? Did Jesus save Zacchaeus? Now, take a moment if you will to reflect back on your life and your interactions with Jesus. Like Zacchaeus, were you a “sinner?” Like Zacchaeus, did Jesus seek you? Are there moments in your life where you really have felt that Jesus literally has been “pursuing” you? (I know I have had these moments in my life – thank God for them!) And, most importantly – like Zacchaeus – has Jesus saved you?

Interesting!  The Story of the Ten Servants is something I reflected on back in our readings of Matthew. But what stood out to me today was verse 11 – “The crowd was listening to everything Jesus said. And because he was nearing Jerusalem, he told a story to correct the impression that the Kingdom of God would begin right away.”  This is very interesting to note that Jesus told this story to correct the impression that the Kingdom would begin right away!  The Jewish people were looking for a Messiah that would overthrow the Roman political structure.  A fighting / revolutionary Messiah that would free Jerusalem from Rome.  Instead, as we all know, Jesus died on a cross with nails that were driven into his hands and feet by Roman soldier.  Not quite what the Jews at this time were expecting in a Messiah…  And here we have this story that’s purpose is to show the Kingdom would not begin right away.  This makes sense.  It is the paradox of the Kingdom of God being already / not yet.  And while Jesus first came to usher in the Kingdom, its fulfillment is not complete until his Second Coming.  And – while we are awaiting the fulfillment of the Kingdom, how are we utilizing the talents God has given us?  How are we utilizing our time, treasure, and talents?  Is it for the Kingdom’s benefit? 

Bible.org’s commentary on our Luke chapter 19 readings today titled “The Nobleman: His Slaves and His Citizens” is at this link.

Psalms – Psalm 87 is a celebration of Jerusalem as the City of God, as we read in verse 3 – “O city of God, what glorious things are said of you!”  As we continue to read through the One Year Bible this year it is amazing to reflect upon how much focus there is on Jerusalem as the city of God.  Truly, so many of the Psalms glorify Jerusalem, often as a foreshadowing of the Heavenly City of God.  Indeed, as this verse suggests, many glorious things are said of Jerusalem in the Bible!

Proverbs – Proverbs 13 verse 11 is a great verse to consider as we watch those late night TV infomercials… 🙂 – “Wealth from get-rich-quick schemes quickly disappears; wealth from hard work grows.”  Are we focusing our working lives on working hard or trying to get rich quick…

Worship Video: Today’s readings reminded me of Mac Powell’s song “River of Life:”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ceVLJ2Xm1UM

Have you been to the river of life? Click here and be washed clean!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on a verse of Scripture today: “Wealth from get-rich-quick schemes quickly disappears; wealth from hard work grows over time.” Proverbs 13:11 NLT

Prayer Point: Pray that you will not pursue wealth from get-rich-schemes. Pray that you will work hard, give and save money, while growing your wealth over time. Pray that your ultimate investments are in God’s Kingdom and not in the markets of this world.

Comments from You & Questions of the Day:  Have you every fallen prey to the idea of “getting rich quick”?  Do you see the wisdom of hard work over get-rich-quick schemes?  From which avenue does true wealth ultimately come from?   And, really, what is true wealth?  Is it what the world offers or perhaps something God offers?  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:

Joshua 16:1-18:28
9 Ephraim was also given some towns with surrounding villages in the territory of the half-tribe of Manasseh. 10 They did not drive the Canaanites out of Gezer, however, so the people of Gezer live as slaves among the people of Ephraim to this day.
This passage and others like it from yesterday and today’s reading are thoroughly convicting me. In the giving of the boundary lines I see God setting up boundaries in my heart and telling me to 1) root out every enemy from within the boundaries, 2) keep out enemies that are without from coming in, and 3) remain obedient to God’s commands so that I will complete the task of item one and have the strength to guard my borders from item two.
That she, Israel, failed to do that means she played with sin. It means that she took sin and used it to support other endeavors even though she may not have participated directly in the sin, she shored up her economy on the back of sin. What is in my heart that God has commanded me to root out and I have said, “It’s to hard, it’s stronger than I?” What sin n my heart have I kept in the corner supporting an “industry” that I declared will do good things for God? If Israel made slaves of her enemies, the ones she was suppose to root out, and then excused herself for doing so because now they can give more time to worshiping God, then her worship is built on a lies, deceit and corruption destined to fail. How far-off from Israel am I, are we, if we do likewise?
Luke 19:1-27
Mike in regard to your Comments on Zacchaeus, I see Zacchaeus as being saved because he knew he was lost. As the most influential Jew in the tax-collecting business, Zaccheaus had become very rich by ripping off people and he felt guilty. Although it doesn’t say that in the text one can figure that out by his behavior, climbing up a tree to get a look at Jesus and immediately declaring he would repay those he had ripped off. People may have influence amongst the people they are ripping off but that doesn’t mean they have there respect. Influential people who feel their wealth has brought them salvation would not be climbing trees, they would be summing folks to them. The Queen of England summons people to her court not the other way around.
There are a lot of people who don’t know where they are and don’t know where they are going, but haven’t admitted that to anyone, much less themselves. They can’t be saved because they don’t know they are lost.
In the story of the ten servants what struck me and caught my attention was the fifteenth verse as read in the NIV, 15 “He was made king, however, and returned home.” Despite sending a local delegation to tell the “man of noble birth,” that they didn’t want him to be their king, He was made King anyway. We can believe there is no God, we can reject God and go after other gods and submit ourselves to them; however, that doesn’t stop God from being God.
Psalm 87:1-7
In the turmoil that is the Middle East verse four and five let us know that in God there will be a Peace,
4 I will record Egypt and Babylon among those who know me–
also Philistia and Tyre, and even distant Ethiopia.
They have all become citizens of Jerusalem!
5 And it will be said of Jerusalem,
“Everyone has become a citizen here.”
And the Most High will personally bless this city.
Proverbs 13:11
Mike, there are the late-night infomercials and then there are the State Lottery, and multi-state Power-Ball, get your one-billion to one money here, because the gifts, talents and abilities God has placed within you are always going to keep you poor. God is portrayed as not being able to supply our needs so let the state and the bookie give you what God can’t do.
If you don’t know how to make a million you won’t know how to keep a million. That is why nine out of ten lottery winners are bankrupted within five years and go to lottery winner support groups.
Grace and peace,
Ramona

======= Anka:

“If you are so numerous,” Joshua answered, “and if the hill country of Ephraim is too small for you, go up into the forest and clear land for yourselves there in the land of the Perizzites and Rephaites.”
Again and again I see conditions to God’s promises.He promised Israel land,they had to fight for it.Jesus has given us the gift of salvation,we have to fight our flesh to get it…once the flesh is defeated we can break down and cry for salvation.I never really understood the “work out your salvation”…well I’m sure the people of Joseph were right about getting more land after all,it was God’s promise but they wanted the people to just pack up…they didn’t want to go get the land…they came up with excuses.I struggle sometimes to find time to read the bible,to pray…yet I expect to go out there and fight the enemy in my pyjamas!I expect to truly overcome the world and I expect the Holy Spirit to use me…hhhmmm.How can I have victory if I don’t meditate on the book of life instead I meditate on everything that’s not going right(the way I assume it should be).Zacchaeus had a good excuse…He was short,that’s how God created him so if he couldn’t see Jesus it wasn’t his fault…but he fought…ran up ahead and climbed up a tree!!He didn’t care about his reputation,didn’t make excuses…Jesus didn’t go out looking for him in the crowd,Jesus saw him AFTER he did his part….May God help me and anyone else is willing to realise that I need to train with my weapons and go out to battle.
God bless you all
Anka

======= Emily:

Anka,
Good observations. Christians do struggle so that they don’t fall into the traps. God does save us and wants us to be holy as He is holy. As human beings,We will make mistakes always but as long as our eyes are fixed on God we will get up and continue the journey.
Otherwise it is too easy to fall in the traps (and not get out) every single day of our lives. The traps: VANITY, Anger, greed, jealousy, covetousness, dangerous/destructive addictions, illicit sexual relations, corruption, showing partiality, suppressing the weak for our own benefit, ignoring the needs of those who are destitute, hopeless, in suffering…. too many traps to deal with every single day. We must fear God, Love God and let Him guide us for He is our Father who will never fail us if we trust Him.
Emily

======= Jim:

The reading in the Book of Luke today about the 10 talents isn’t difficult to understand, except for the part at the beginning where the ruler goes off to accept rulership and his subjects send a delegation against him. After all is said and done with the talent business, the ruler calls out the people who sent the delegation against him, and ‘kill them in front of me’. Could this be a foretelling of the Romans destroying Jerusalem in the near future? I don’t know… any insights or opinions?
Jim

======= John:

Jim,
Jesus as Savior – King – has always caused division for almost 2,000 years. Some believe, many want nothing to do with Christ on a personal level – as their King.
Some commentators do say this is about the Jewish nation’s rejection of Christ and subsequent destruction by Rome.
Personally, since this talks about the “king” coming back “returning” as king. I think this has to do with Christ’s return in the future and the judgment of unbelievers – those who rejected the message and Role of Christ. The citizens who wanted nothing to do with the King in the parable.
I find the above a better explanation, because as we know, the King (Christ) did not return before the Roman destruction of Israel.
John

======= Shane:

I agree with John, and my reasoning may sound nuts, but that’s no change of pace for me around here. Christ’s parable in Luke reminded me of Dan 7.
Follow me here. Daniel 7:13 reads “I saw in the night visions, and, behold, one like the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven, and came to the Ancient of days, and they brought him near before him.” OKay, let’s stop there a sec. Where is the Ancient of Days? Heaven, right? Okay, let’s keep going to verse 14: “And there was given him dominion, and glory, and a KINGDOM, that all people, nations, and languages, should serve him: his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom that which shall not be destroyed”
So if we apply Daniel’s prophecy to Christ (as Son of man would indicate) we see that in a sense when Christ was resurrected and went to sit at the right hand of God, He was given a kingdom. So Christ left this world and was given a kingdom. The man in the parable left and was given a kingdom. Christ will come back and judge the world. The man came back and judged.
Therefore, I’m with John here. The parable is about Christ’s second advent. Watch ye therefore, for ye know not when the master of house cometh, and all that.
Shane

======= John:

Jim,
I don’t know if anybody emailed you as to why so much detail on the division of land.
Like the census (which is also a tough read) it is part of the history of the country. The census helped establish blood-lines and the coming to Canaan, conquering, and dividing it – establishes a time frame and the method of division.
If someone was to say – ‘well the Israelites have no claim to this country’ – ‘we came here in such and such and it is ours’. It can be pointed out around 1400 B.C. Joshua conquered “X” and “Y” and “Z” and divided up the lands by lot. It can also be pointed out that land was given by God – whether a debater wants to admit that or not.
Thus it puts a face and time to the original claim on the land of Israel. The seven(?) conquered nations have no claim as they were wiped out or assimilated.
It can be argued whether the Israelis have the right to have been reinstated to this land by the U.N., and it is argued to this day. However, the idea that they have no claim can be refuted by going to Book of Joshua. That may not be good enough in a court of law, but it is good enough for a Christian.
There may be other reasons for such detailed reporting of division of land, but that is what comes to mind when I saw your post.
BTW, I am with you, the genealogies, census, and this section have been toughest for me to read without wanting to skip down the page 
John

======= Shane:

My grandfather tells a story of a guy he knew who said, “I’ve read the whole Bible except for the begats.” They can be dry. Regarding the division of land, I really think that’s showing two things: 1) the fulfillment of God’s land promise to Abraham, and 2) to show the care God took in fulfilling that promise.
Shane

======= Jenny:

A verse that stood out, or jumped out at me was Joshua 18:3..”Then Joshua said to the children of Israel: ‘How long will you neglect to go and possess the land which the LORD God of your fathers has given you?’”…hmm. God spoke something personal to me there, areas of my life I am being maybe ‘lazy’ in. I couldnt find commentary in my study bible so i pulled out the big guns, the Vernon McGee 10 Yr Bible with commentary! : ) regarding Josh 18:3 it says:
“This is also God’s challenge to us. He has made available to us all spiritual blessings, but we are slack when it comes to claiming them. God has been so good to us. Oh, how we can thank Him for His grace, His love, His goodness, His mercy. How wonderful He is! Why dont we move in and possess the land He has given us.”
Luke 19:26 kinda confused me.‘”For I say to you, that to everyone who has will be given; and from him who does not have, even what he has will be taken away from him”.
My Study Bible, which referred me back to Matt 25:29 says: The recipients of divine grace inherit innumerable blessings in addition to eternal life and the favor of God (cf. Rom. 8:32). But those who despise the riches of God’s goodness, forbearance, and longsuffering, burying them in the ground and clinging instead to the paltry and transient goods of this world, will ultimately lose everything they have.
Wow, I love that picture of the kingdom, or new Jerusalem and the clouds, thats beautiful!
Yes, I believe in working hard and no, I have never fallen for a get-rich-quick scheme, I’m too smart for that! : }
Jenny

======= Gina:

What a great picture of ourselves at times with the story of Zacchaeus, the “sinner”! What stands out is to me is how the crowd reacts to Jesus wanting to stay at his house. They are the first to point fingers and be judgemental – probably thinking “why would Jesus want to stay with THAT sinner…I’m way better than he is….Jesus should be staying with someone like me. I don’t know about you, but I find myself, my prideful self, in that place more often than I like to be. Bottom line, this story humbles me.
I haven’t fallen prey to the “get rich quick” stuff on TV, but I have falled prey to the “lose 20lbs in 2 days with this rubber band” kind of stuff! Pilates videos and other things that you can lose weight quick…waste of money, mainly because once you get the stuff home, you use if for a week then it ends up in a closet somewhere!
True wealth is the joy found in Jesus Christ – no matter what your circumstances are at that time. Money can’t buy what Jesus can give you! Once you have Him, everything else becomes meaningless.
Gina

======= Mae:

Luke 19:9 “Jesus said to Zacchaeus, “Today salvation has come to this house, because this man, too, is a son of Abraham. For the Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost.” ~ To me, it means that Jesus came to seek for the ones that were lost and wanting to save them. Jesus defenitly came to save me 8 months ago, well … that was the first time I was actually willing to accept Him. He, of course, came many many times knocking at my door. Yes, I was a sinner and still am a sinner. I wish I was without sins …
Proverbs 13:11 “Wealth from get-rich-quick schemes quickly disappears; wealth from hard work grows.” ~ I don’t believe in ‘get-rich-quick’. First of all because I don’t need to be rich, and I mean ‘money-rich’. And second of all … well, there’s not really a second of all, LOL, I just don’t need to be rich. I’d love to be rich in: having more wisdom and having a bigger heart. But money and material mean nothing to me. I care a great deal about what God gives me and not about the things I might think I need to have. Since I’m reborn we lead a pretty basic life and that’s just fine with me.
Mae

======= Jennifer:

Luke 19:1-27;
If we prove to be trust worthy with a little bit we will be given more responsibilities.
Psalm 87:1-7;
I wondered where Zion was when I read todays Psalm. A website it says “from the physical place where a conquering Israelite king (David) established his home for the benefit of his people, to a spiritual place where another conquering King will establish His home for the benefit of all people.”
With this in mind I reread the Psalm and learn that to born in Zion means to be a Christian. The book of life includes your and my names if we are Christains and so we will entitlement to live in the city of Zion (heaven). There we will sing praises to god and dance happily forever rejoicing that we are there we have made it home.
Proverbs 13:11
Gambling is a way of gaining money wrongly and we all too often see people lose it. Accumulating and saving money well earned through working hard grows and grows until we have a nice bit for our retirement. Not do easy to do in today’s economic environment but true nevertheless.
Jennifer

======= Lisa:

Comments on Shiloh – it is a must read; thanks Mike!
Comments on Psalm 87.
At the first reading, it was hard for me to grasp. So I read it over and over – in the different versions; then I viewed the commentary; lastly, I read each cross-reference.
If you have not done so – it is another must read.
To God be the all honor and glory!!!
Have a blessed day and be a blessing!!!!
Lisa

======= Frederick:

Re: Zacchaeus & the rich ruler and the blind beggar
Luke continued to describe Zacchaeus’s encounter with Jesus. Zacchaeus was a wealthy man (like the rich ruler). Yet (as Romona commented), he knew about his sins in his tax collection practice. He finally ‘saw’ Jesus and Jesus visited his house and have a dinner in his house. One might say that the blind beggar had nothing to lose to follow Jesus. But Zacchaeus illustrated the work of God in Zacchaeus’s heart and Zacchaeus’s response to Jesus. God is fair. Both the blind beggar (the poor) and Zacchaeus (the rich) received Jesus’s eternal blessings. The key issue is your choice and response to Jesus.
Frederick

======= Raeann:

True wealth comes from hard work, know that you did a job right, putting in the effort and seeing a job through to completion. 32For he shall be delivered unto the Gentiles, and shall be mocked, and spitefully entreated, and spitted on.
Raeann

======= Lily:

The story of Zaccheaus is one of my favorite. God came to save the lost and not the righteous. If we acknowledge that we have sinned and repent of our sins, God will surely forgive us. God knows us, as he knew Zaccheaus was up on the tree and his sins of cheating people. We can not hide our sins from God. In order to be forgiven, we have to acknowledge before God are sins as Zaccheaus did in front of Jesus. I pray that I will always hear God’s invitation especially when I am tempted. Thank God for His mercies.
Lily

======= Reuben:

What if Zaccheus was not just a “wee little man” but was a Hoffa-type gangster? That’s how I envision him.
Reuben

======= Duane:

I was thinking about the apostle Paul, when he was on his way to Damascus. Jesus appeared to him and called him out. Saul, as he was called then, was not seeking the Lord, he was going to have christains put in jail for following this new group called the way. Jesus sought out Saul and Saul ackowledge his sin and became converted. I believe that Jesus does seek us out. I know in my own situation, that I was miserable, I knew that Jesus was the answer, but I kept running from him.jesus kept pursuing me and a day came at his timing, when I finally surrendered my life. Zacchaues was definitely being sought by the Lord, but he was also aware of his sinfulness having heard of the reports concerning Jesus. Perhaps Zacchaues had seen people who had been healed or who were now acting completedly different as a result of having seen Jesus. This is what cause Zaccaues to become curious and started looking for answers. Perhaps I,m reading to much into it, but thats the way I see it.
Duane

======= Bob:

The Zacchaeus story always reminds me of when I taught Vacation Bible School and the kids and I had to learn and perform this lovely little song.
https://www.youtube.com/embed/bkd-QFD7vMA?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent
By the way if you have kids or know someone who has kids, a great gift are the Veggie Tales CD’s or DVD’s. (They are also for adults)
Bob

======== Joyce:

Mike and everyone,
Luke 19:1-10
Today as I read the story of Jesus and Zacchaeus, I felt very touched.
I see the truthful, genuine interaction between Zacchaeus and Jesus, that surpassed the displeased sentiment of the crowd.
3 He tried to get a look at Jesus, but he was too short to see over the crowd.
4 So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore-fig tree beside the road, for Jesus was going to pass that way.
5 When Jesus came by, he looked up at Zacchaeus and called him by name. “Zacchaeus!” he said. “Quick, come down! I must be a guest in your home today.”
6 Zacchaeus quickly climbed down and took Jesus to his house in great excitement and joy. (Luke 19:3-6 NLT)
The one that Zacchaeus wanted to see was Jesus, and he strived hard to make it happen – his height and the crowd didn’t stop him.
And when Jesus came up, He looked up and spoke to Zacchaeus, called him by name, and wanted to be a guest in Zacchaeus’ house that very day.
The crowd all the while, I imagine, was displeased. But that didn’t deter Zacchaeus – he quickly climbed down and invited Jesus as his house guest — with great excitement and joy.
In our relationship with Jesus, sometimes, it is that personal!
If people cheer us on – great! But even if not, when Jesus has His eyes on us, and calls on us, may we respond right away, with excitement and joy — amen.
Thank you Mike for your faithfulness in leading us to read the Bible each day!
Thank you brothers and sisters for your valuable comments!
Sincerely,
Joyce

======= Carol:

I thank God that although I’ve strayed at times, Jesus is always there and as time goes on and I grow in the Lord, the Holy Spirit will bring me back to my senses with scripture reminders of exactly what I should be doing/thinking.
I think we today sometimes have a wrong idea of who Jesus is and why He came and what He is going to do! We still want Him to do what we want/expect Him to do! He said He came to seek and to save the lost, and we are supposed to be doing that also…. but it can be hard sometimes when we are irked at the lost! (anyway I can get irked) Right now I am working on staying away from anything that will cause me not to love them as I should.
Carol

======= Dee:

Hi Mike, not sure if I ever fell for the get rich schemes but there are so many scams and click bait that people get entangled with. One time I had someone same I had won some money and that they knew my mon when she was living or something..it was wierd..they wouldn’t call me it was all text..my husband helped me and let me know it’s all automated and some kind of scam..its sad..and what is the saddest is when the little old elderly get tricked or abused in this situation. Thankful for God’s grace and love to sustain me.
Dee

======= Ramona:

Joshua 16:1-18:28
2 ½ tribes on the east of the Jordan, and 10 ½ on the west, those on the east have taken their territory; however, only three out of the 10 ½ on the west have gone after theirs. What is going on? What goes on within us, within me when I don’t take what God has given me? It is fear that past and current sins will keep me from what God has given me. Is it feelings of inadequacy because I am relying on self instead of relying on God who gives me strength? Is it just plan laziness, a desire for someone else to go out and do the dirty work ‘cause I don’t want to get my hands dirty?
In the 10th verse of chapter 16 we read, 10But they didn’t get rid of the Canaanites who were living in Gezer. Canaanites are still living among the people of Ephraim, but they are made to do forced labor.
If Israel was to completely rid the land of its inhabitants, then “striking a bargain” with the folks who live there is akin to making friends with one’s sin. Let me have what I do, but shouldn’t do, be done by someone else and I will use it’s profits to take care of my needs.” In verses 12-13, of chapter 17 we read, 12 The people of Manasseh never were able to take over these towns–the Canaanites wouldn’t budge. 13 But later, when the Israelites got stronger, they put the Canaanites to forced labor. But they never did get rid of them.
O.K. here we have people who are just too to weak to get rid of the Canaanites, but strong enough to subject them into forced labor—somebody is telling a fib/lie so they can benefit from the yeast of “sin.” O, how often do we hang around our sin and assign it to someone else so that we can get the benefit?
As a numbers person the “numbers” in both the Old and New Testament readings and their relationships intrigues me. In the parable of the Ten Servants, we have the citizens of the country—refusing to accept the eventual kingship of the “nobleman.” (Whether we accept Jesus as King or not, when he comes back He will still be King—I compare this as to what I did in my youth, declare God dead as if I had the power to “knock off” God.) There are Ten servants who are given ten pounds of silver (Was this ten pounds each or one each? It doesn’t matter because the percentage of increase, the ratios are the same.) Of the ten, three present themselves before the newly crowned King. (Ten tribes back in Israel on the left side of the Jordon, the East, only 3 ½ show up with any kind of land possession, though some of the “sin” is kept as inhabitants for profitability.)
Joshua’s admonishment to the seven remaining tribes with a little word substitution can fit perfectly in this Parable and speak to us, to me:
3 Then Joshua asked them, “How long are you going to wait before taking possession of the remaining land the LORD, the God of your ancestors, has given to you?
By the way, the percentage of folk that conquered their land in this passage, and those servants that presented themselves in front of the returning King, 30%, though that third guy, just buried his, seems to run the same throughout the Bible. Compare the numbers in the seven churches addressed in Revelations: those who were rebuked and the few who were not
Grace and peace,
Ramona

======= Vance:

Luke 19 (NKJV)
7
But when they saw it, they all complained, saying, “He has gone to be a guest with a man who is a sinner.”
8
Then Zacchaeus stood and said to the Lord, “Look, Lord, I give half of my goods to the poor; and if I have taken anything from anyone by false accusation, I restore fourfold.”
9
And Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house, because he also is a son of Abraham;
10
for the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost.”
14
But his citizens hated him, and sent a delegation after him, saying, ‘We will not have this man to reign over us.’
~~~
Notice the attitude of Zacchaeus who came to the Lord honestly, not in a false way to impress the Lord. As such, the Lord Jesus received Zacchaeus honestly, and granted him mercy.
NOTICE the repentance of Zacchaeus seen in his actions of robbing people as a tax collector. Zacchaeus, though he had been in iniquity, had now rejected this and had honestly come to the Lord.
~~~
Constrast the attitude of Zacchaeus with the people described in the parable of the Lord Jesus:
14
But his citizens hated him, and sent a delegation after him, saying, ‘We will not have this man to reign over us.’
These people loved their iniquity, and had no intention of giving it up.
~~~
I read some very interesting and meaningful passages in Psalm 65, verses 3 and 4 that deal with iniquity, and the love of our God.
I would like to share them with you, as well as notes from the TREASURY OF DAVID by Charles Spurgeon on Psalm 65:3
~~~
Psalm 65 (NKJV)
3
Iniquities prevail against me; As for our transgressions, You will provide atonement for them.
4
Blessed is the man You choose, And cause to approach You, That he may dwell in Your courts.
We shall be satisfied with the goodness of Your house, Of Your holy temple.
Iniquity
HEBREW transliterated word: `avon
HEBREW phonetic spelling: aw-vone’
DEFINITION:
1. perversity, depravity, iniquity, guilt or punishment of iniquity
2. iniquity
3. guilt of iniquity, guilt (as great), guilt (of condition)
4. consequence of or punishment for iniquity
C.H. Spurgeons’s The Treasury of David
EXPOSITION
Verse 3. Iniquities prevail against me. Others accuse and slander me, and in addition to my own sins rise up and would beset me to my confusion, were it not for the remembrance of the atonement which covers every one of my iniquities. Our sins would, but for grace, prevail against us in the court of divine justice, in the court of conscience, and in the battle of life.
Unhappy is the man who despises these enemies {i.e., iniquities}, and worse still is he who counts them his friends!
He is best instructed who knows their deadly power, and flees for refuge to him who pardons iniquity.
As for our transgressions, thou shalt purge them away. Thou dost cover them all, for thou hast provided a covering propitiation, a mercy seat which wholly covers thy law.
Note the word our, the faith of the one penitent who speaks for himself in the first clause, here embraces all the faithful in Zion; and he is so persuaded of the largeness of forgiving love that he leads all the saints to sing of the blessing.
What a comfort that iniquities that prevail against us, do not prevail against God.
They would keep us away from God, but he sweeps them away from before himself and us; they are too strong for us, but not for our Redeemer, who is mighty, yea, and almighty to save. It is worthy of note that as the priest washed in the laver before he sacrificed, so David leads us to obtain purification from sin before we enter upon the service of song.
When we have washed our robes and made them white in his blood, then shall we acceptably sing, “Worthy is the Lamb that was slain.”
EXPLANATORY NOTES AND QUAINT SAYINGS
Verse 3-4. Now, soul, thou art molested with many lusts that infect thee, and obstruct thy commerce with heaven; yea, thou hast complained to thy God, what loss thou hast suffered by them; is it now presumption to expect relief from him, that he will rescue thee from them, that thou mayest serve him without fear, who is thy liege Lord?
You have the saints for your precedents; who, when they have been in combat with their corruptions, yea, been foiled by them, have even then exercised their faith on God, and expected the ruin of those enemies, which, for the present, have overrun them.
Iniquities prevail against me; he means his own sins; but see his faith; at the same time that they prevailed over him, he beholds God destroying them, as appears in the very next words, As for our transgressions, thou shalt purge them away.
See here, poor Christian, who thinkest that thou shalt never get above deck, holy David has a faith, not only for himself, but also for all believers, of whose number I suppose thee one.
And mark the ground he hath for this his confidence, taken from God’s choosing act: Blessed is the man whom thou choosest, and causest to approach unto thee, that he may dwell in thy courts. As if he had said, Surely he will not let them be under the power of sin, or in want of his gracious succour, whom he sets so near himself.
This is Christ’s own argument against Satan, in the behalf of his people. “The Lord said unto Satan, the Lord rebuke thee.” Zechariah 3:2. William Gurnall.
HINTS FOR PASTORS AND LAYPERSONS
Verse 3.
The humble confession. Sins prevail against us.
When we are not alert, or go into temptation, and even after most sacred engagements.
How. Through our inbred corruption, natural constitution, suddenness of temptation, neglect of means of grace, and want of fellowship.
In whom. In the best of men: David says, against me. Let us take home the caution.
The reassuring confidence. Sin is forgiven.
By God: Thou.
By atonement: covering all.
Effectually: purge away.
Comprehensively: our transgressions.
Verse 3.
A cry of distress. Man soul besieged: Iniquities
prevail against me.
A shout of delight. Man soul relieved: Thou shalt
purge them away. E. G. Gange
Vance

Joshua 15:1-63 + Luke 18:18-43 + Psalm 86:1-17 + Proverbs 13:9-10
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Old Testament – It is interesting to read about the allotment of land to the tribe of Judah today!  It reminds me of how different these days are for the Israelites, compared to the 40 years of wandering in the desert – or the slavery in Egypt prior to that.  Times have changed!  God’s Promise is being fulfilled.  I think this is important for us to remember in our lives as well.  Maybe we’re in a “slavery” period in our own life where we are looking for a Savior to free us.  Jesus is of course that Savior to free us from our slavery to sin.  Or, maybe we’re in a desert period of our lives.  We’ve decided to follow Jesus, but maybe we’re really trudging through some hard times.  If we’re in this type of period, hopefully we can be encouraged by knowing that God’s Promises to us will not fail.  God will bring us peace that surpasses all understanding.  God will bring us to the true Promised Land for eternity.  Let us be encouraged in our own lives by our past few months of readings about the Israelites and their journey from slavery to now the Promised Land.  God’s Promises will not fail.  They are eternal.  And they are the only thing in this passing world that is eternal.

Interesting side note on Joshua chapter 15 verses 61 & 62 – “In the wilderness there were the towns of Beth-arabah, Middin, Secacah, Nibshan, the City of Salt, and En-gedi–six towns with their surrounding villages.”  The NIV translates wilderness as “desert”, which is probably more accurate.  Zondervan’s commentary on this verse today says, “The desert is the chalky dry region east and south of Jerusalem that borders the Dead Sea…  Either Secacah or the City of Salt may have been the ancient name of the site of Qumran, where the scribes who produced the Dead Sea Scrolls lived.”

New Testament – Today we read the story of the Rich Man in Luke chapter 18!  There are tons of commentaries on how to interpret this story – including this commentary from Bob Deffinbaugh at Bible.org titled “Blessed Babes and a Miserable Millionaire” at this link.  The verses that always speak to me the most are verses 29 & 30 where Jesus teaches – “I assure you, everyone who has given up house or wife or brothers or parents or children, for the sake of the Kingdom of God, will be repaid many times over in this life, as well as receiving eternal life in the world to come.”  These are really some powerful verses for us to consider.  Basically, I read – and I know from experience – that truly following Jesus comes with some costs.  The costs may be loss of wealth, or worldliness, or power, or glamour, or friends, or even family perhaps.  But, if we are accepting these costs for the sake of the Kingdom, then they are in my estimation our crosses that we must bear to truly follow Jesus.  Following Jesus is not always easy.  The world’s temptations will do everything they can for us to not follow Jesus.  “It’s too hard to follow Jesus.”  “Come have fun.”  “It’s too much cost to follow Jesus.”  But…  we really need to stay in constant prayer and stay close to God to realize that following Jesus – along w/ all the costs that may be associated with following Jesus – is the only True way to live life.  All other paths will lead to misery.  Following Jesus and accepting the costs or our crosses ultimately leads to life in abundance.  And life for eternity.   Are there costs in your life that you are willing to accept to follow Jesus?

Bible.org’s commentary on our Luke chapter 18 readings today titled “From the Sublime to the Ridiculous” is at this link.

Psalms – Wow. Today in Psalm 86 we read an amazingly wise prayer of David to God in verse 11 – “Teach me your way, O Lord, and I will walk in your truth; give me an undivided heart that I may fear your name.” How do you think this verse works as a prayer? Can you imagine praying it to God? Do you want God to teach you his way? Do you want to walk in God’s Truth? What does it mean to you to have an undivided heart? It is possible that your heart is now divided in some way? Will you pray to God for an undivided heart? What does it mean to fear God’s name? Why would David pray to fear God’s name? I read an interesting commentary on this verse saying that David is wisely praying for God to save him from his frailty within himself. Oftentimes in the Psalms we will read about David praying for God to deliver him from his enemies. In this verse David is praying for deliverance from what is within. This is a critical point to consider. I think sometimes we always look toward “external” circumstances as the cause of all of our problems. When perhaps we need to look at some “internal” things going on inside of us as causes of some of our problems? And in realizing that there are some internal things that need to be fixed, perhaps we can humbly pray Psalm 86 verse 11 like David did thousands of years ago?  “Teach me your way, O Lord, and I will walk in your truth; give me an undivided heart that I may fear your name.”

Proverbs – Another wow… Proverbs chapter 13 verse 9 is so beautiful to reflect upon – “The life of the godly is full of light and joy.”  Ultimately, this is so true.  As I posted above, yes, there will be times of trial and times of being in the desert.  But, ultimately a godly life will bring light and joy – and if not in this life, then in eternity.  There are of course martyrs who may not experience this light and joy externally in this life – but, my hunch is that they are experiencing the light and joy internally – and ultimately, they will experience light and joy forever in God’s Kingdom.  Is your life full of light and joy?  Do you believe it will be someday?  For eternity?

Worship Video: Today’s readings in Luke today reminded me of the song “All My Hope” sung here by David Crowder and Tauren Wells:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7tElvdnId4Q

Where is All Your Hope? Click here for eternal Hope!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on two verses of Scripture today: “I tell you the truth,” Jesus said to them, “no one who has left home or wife or brothers or parents or children for the sake of the kingdom of God will fail to receive many times as much in this age and, in the age to come, eternal life.” Luke 18:29-30 NIV

Prayer Point: Pray that the Kingdom of God is the top priority in your life. Pray that your relationship with Jesus is the top relationship priority in your life. Pray that you will follow Jesus, no matter the cost.

Comments from You & Questions of the Day:  Based on my reflections on our Joshua readings today, do you believe that God’s promises are True and won’t fail you?  If you are in some sort of slavery to sin or perhaps in a desert place in your life right now, will you reach out to Jesus to save you and lead you into the Promised Land?  Do you believe Jesus can Save you and Lead you?  And will you follow?  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:

Joshua 15:1-63
Proverbs 25: 28 He who has no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down and without walls (AMP)
I use to try and read though biblical lists (The Book of Numbers; 1st Chronicles) at 100mph. I just wanted to get through with all those “hard” names as quickly as possible; however, last year the lists took on new meanings for me, I began to see their importance.
I have come to realize that everything written in the Bible has meaning whether I see it or not and whether I agree with God that it is important or not. If I don’t understand something I ask God for understanding and then wait. I don’t wait with baited breath for an immediate answer because I may not be able to handle that answer now (John 16:12-13), but I know that an answer will come because Jesus said I would be given an answer (Matthew 7:7; Luke 11:9).
Today I see and example of what happens to us when we either remove or allow the boundaries God has given us to be breeched or removed, thus the quote from Proverbs at the beginning of my post. Self-control gives us boundaries, or walls of protection. Obedience to the Word of God gives us the power to establish self-controls.
When Proverbs 25:28 first came alive to me, it gave me the understanding that without walls, which symbolizes a defense from outside forces, anything can go out and everything can come into my life. We read today of boundaries specify given to Judah and the towns that lay either on the border or within the walls of her territory. (I hope the reader understands that I’m taking something given to the Nation of Israel and applying it to our personal lives)
The nation was warned that they needed to remove their “enemies,” if not, ” ‘But if you do not drive out the inhabitants of the land, those you allow to remain will become barbs in your eyes and thorns in your sides. They will give you trouble in the land where you will live”(Num. 33:55). This was not followed and we know that from previous days readings as well as what is stated in the last verse of the fifteenth chapter, 63 But the tribe of Judah could not drive out the Jebusites, who lived in the city of Jerusalem, so the Jebusites live there among the people of Judah to this day.
It was only from reading this in previous year’s One-Year-Bible adventures that I recognized at least three cities that had been assigned to Judah that latter wind up in the hands of the Philistines, their most tenacious enemy, by the time we get to Judges, speciiflly by the time we get to the First Book of Samuel, which begins with the story of Israel’s last judge, Samuel: Ziklag, Ekron and Ashdod. In fact the Ark of the Covenant gets captured and taken to Ashdod, the home of the Philistine god, Dagon, and is placed in Dagon’s temple with some interesting results (1 Samuel 5).
When we remove or allow the boundaries God has set up to be breeched, we wind up serving someone else’s god and by default become slaves to something we don’t want to serve. (Eph 4:27 and do not give the devil a foothold.)
If we have not internal control over ourselves then external controls are placed around the person without self-controls. Sometimes the external controls are placed by the person themselves who understands that some kind of control is needed in their life, and sadly society must place controls on those who choose no controls, controls made up of concrete and steel. Yet, at the end of the day, who we are, our character is who we are when no one is looking so if we have no internal controls, who we are when we are by ourselves is the real me, the real you.
Who has rule over your spirit?
Luke 18:18-43
34 But they didn’t understand a thing he said. Its significance was hidden from them, and they failed to grasp what he was talking about.
For many of those reading along with Mike on this Blog the above verse rings true. Please stick with the readings this year and for years to come because understanding will come. Taken from someone who has been there, “This stuff makes no sense!” But who now has gained progressive understanding because that is what God has promised and He is true to His Word.
Psalm 86:1-17
6 Listen closely to my prayer, O LORD;
hear my urgent cry.
Sometimes our “urgent” prayer, in our eyes, is not urgent to God because He knows our beginning from our end. There are some things we want that God wants to give us but it is not the right time. Sort of like giving the keys to a formula one racing care to a three year old. In time, with training, they may be able to handle the track however, maturation must happen to get them from the desire to drive a fast racecar to its reality.
Isaiah 55
6 Seek the Lord while He may be found;
call to Him while He is near. 7 Let the wicked one abandon his way,
and the sinful one his thoughts;
let him return to the Lord,
so He may have compassion on him,
and to our God, for He will freely forgive. 8 “For My thoughts are not your thoughts,
and your ways are not My ways.”[This is] the Lord’s declaration. (HCSB)
Proverbs 13:9-10
It’s best for us to live godly lives so we can see where we are going.
Grace and peace,
Ramona

======= Luch:

Does it ‘cost’ to follow Jesus? Absolutely! But I believe the cost of NOT following Jesus is a lot higher. My late younger brother, whom I loved, chose to NOT follow Jesus. He thought following Jesus would have restricted his life, would have kept him from having the fun he wanted. He chose a life of drug useage, self abuse, blew up his family that I take care of now, and died way before his time. Did it cost me to follow Jesus? yes, in some ways, but it cost Bruno a lot more to not follow. I think that’s the reality. I see people every day in my faith community who pretend to follow Jesus by all the overt religious paraphelia they are invested in but there is no dynamic in their faith. It’s all about ‘going and coming’ to stuff, and filling up notebooks and going to ‘service’ after ‘service’. Sometimes i wonder if we get so busy in our religious stuff to shield us from dealing with reality in our lives. I think jesus shows us in Luke 14 that unless we choose to pay the cost to follow Him we will have no saltiness in our lives. That’s a spiritual law of influence that cannot be violated. No cross, no crown, someone once sang.
the opposite of a undivided heart from Psalm 86 is 2 Chronicles 25:2 where it speaks of Amaziah “He did what was right in the eyes of the LORD, but not WHOLEHEARTEDLY, (or with a whole heart).” As well, I Kings 11:4 says that as “Solomon grew old, his wives turned his heart after other gods, an his heart was not fully devoted to the LORD his God…” His divided heart ushered in the divided kingdom. Our unwillingness to pay the cost to follow the LORD not only impacts the quality of our lives, but impacts the future. I know this from personal experience.
I pray for myself and all my fellow OYB readers that we will choose on this DAY to keep on following the LORD with our whole hearts, and allow God to use us to influence our families and the respective worlds we are all apart of. How can’t we? We have the Risen Jesus living in us, going with us wherever we go!
Luch

======= Luch:

Luciano,
Thank you for sharing that story about your brother. My family is also choosing not to follow Jesus. This is very hard for me to accept. But whenever I do talk with them, I talk about Jesus at some point. Just planting some seeds, I guess.
Luch

======= Michelle:

I have been so burdened to keep praying for my family, and so discouraged that they seem so far from God. They have just enough God to make them feel they are probably Christian (after all they celebrate Christmas and Easter) but not enough for it to give them purpose, joy and passion. I try to just share what’s going on in my life and feel like we have nothing in common since our priorities are so radically different. If it weren’t for the parable of the persistent widow, I think I would just give up praying.
Michelle

======= Shane:

It is VERY difficult on the heart to keep praying for those you love to be saved; those prayers are daily admissions of your family’s status as unsaved. But we have a Lord in heaven–A Lord who saved Jacob though he was a deceiver, Moses though he was a murderer, Saul, David…. God has assured us that there will be a “multitude that no man can number” that will be saved, so we must hope in that. Christ has a bride, and that bride will be redeemed. I pray that your family’s eyes will be opened and their hearts changed.
Shane

======= Emily:

This is a very sensitive issue. Most of my friends (almost all are educated with promising future or already stable jobs and they’re under the age of 30) , family, acquaintances are not Christians. If I mention my Christian faith to them I get all sorts of negative reactions, from giggles, ridicules to bitter, vulgar or insulting comments. The thought of mentioning Christianity ever again (to them) makes me cringe!
Christianity has either been demonized or scrapped in this world. I cannot conclude that all those are bad people. All have their reasons to reject Bible. To be fair to them those reasons are not always based on selfish motives or their desire to live in arbitrary freedom.
I guess God will judge them accordingly, hopefully with His grace and mercy. Today, the world rejects God because it thinks God is unnecessary or a hurdle for their ‘freedoms’. But if I read my Bible, people have ALWAYS been like that. It’s a different matter though God used to TALK to them directly or through prophets.
I get a bit sad when I wonder and wonder how today’s generation will really get the message and come to the reality of God…? They say God often would make you go through slavery or suffering to draw you to Him (very true in my case) just as He did with Israelites. But sadly, I have seen suffering taking people further away from God….
But I know bright lights of hope are shining somewhere for this world as I write this in despair.
Emily

======== Victoria:

I DON’T COMMENTS VERY OFTEN, BUT TODAY’S READING HIT ME LIKE A TON OF HAPPY BRICKS…. I’VE BEEN GOING THROUGH SOME TRIALS IN MY FAMILY LIFE AND THIS READING SPOKE TO MY HEART.. ESPECIALLY LUKE 18:29 & 30 AND PROVERBS. IT MADE ME FEEL BETTER ABOUT MY SITUATION.
THANKS
MIKE…… FOR ALL YOU DO FOR US READERS>>>>>>>
Victoria

======= Anka:

Family…ouch…got a lot of unsaved relatives who deceive themselves here in romania by bowing to pictures of saints,keeping all the festivals,praying to the saints to help them pray to God and depending on what the priest says without finding out what the bible says!!Religious without Christ:(.
“Teach me your way, O LORDand I will walk in your truth;give me an undivided heart,that I may fear your name”…I thank God that I know the truth and pray that HE teaches me His ways because there are many religious people out there on the quick road to hell.I also pray for an undivided heart cos it’s so easy to be carried away by work,family…worries.I too was encouraged by the widow’s persistence…so I’ll keep praying for my folks while watching that I too don’t fall off.
God bless you all
Anka

======= Luch:

For those struggling with family/friends who do not believe, take this one in from John 7:5 “For EVEN his own brothers did not believe in him.” But later in Acts 1:14 we’re told that the followers of Jesus were constantly in prayer, including ‘his brothers.” Wow!! What an incentive to keep praying. Just to be clear, although my own brother died tragically he had connected with Jesus a couple of years before his death, so he did die in Christ, but his body had been so badly abused I suppose God in His providence chose to take Bruno home. My wife, my 3 sons, and sister had NEVER stopped praying for him, even though his choices often made us want to give up.
Never stop praying. Love believes all things, love hopes all things. Love endures all things. Love never fails. Replace love with “Jesus’ and it’s all good!!
Luch

======= Jan:

Lots of God’s promises are conditional…even the gift of salvation is conditional on “receiving” the gift (you have to receive it to get it). Most of His promises are met by our obedience & loving Him so much that we obey His commands & the promises follow; but no one hardly looks at it like this. The gift of salvation is free, but it must be sought after/asked for/surrendered to & received.
That is why we are given a choice to love & follow him…we make the right choice & we receive the blessing or we don’t make the right choice & we are cursed…life or death is the choice/decision/condition that is to be met. We will always have a part in our promises being fulfilled because of the choices we make…in obeying Him or not.
Jan

======= Shane:

Hmmmm, when praying for family I think I’d focus on the language of the Bible that shows God’s unconditional promises, rather than His conditional ones, you might feel better if you do that. When I pray for family and friends I pray Ezekiel chapter 36. In particular verses 26-28:
“Moreover, I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; and I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. I will put My Spirit within you and cause you to walk in My statutes, and you will be careful to observe My ordinances. You will live in the land that I gave to your forefathers; so you will be My people, and I will be your God.”
No statements of conditionality there. God is in the business of saving people, and it is He upon whom we must rely. Better to pray, in my opinion, while focusing on the works of God and not the fickleness of man. I always find more peace that way.
Shane

======= Jan:

Shane, I understand what you are saying & I agree with you 90% with Ezekiel till we get to verse 27 And I will put my Spirit in you and move you to follow my decrees and BE CAREFUL TO KEEP MY LAWS.
27 I’ll put my Spirit in you and make it possible for you to do what I tell you & LIVE BY MY COMMANDS.
27 And I will put my Spirit within you and cause you to walk in My statutes, & YOU SHALL HEED MY ORDINACES & DO THEM.
27 “I will put My Spirit within you and cause you to walk in My statutes, & YOU WILL BE CAREFUL TO OBSERVE MY ORDINANCES.
27 I will put My Spirit within you and cause you to walk in My statutes, & YOU WILL KEEP MY JUDGMENTS & DO THEM.
What prophetic Words from the Ancient of Days/The Prophet of Eternity. He speaks the world into being & His Word goes forth with authority. It is still up to us meet the end of the verse in 27…I’m really not sure that they are not commands to us that we must do in order for the preceding text/Words to be fulfilled…He knows the End from the Beginning…the back to the front. I think He is saying, here is what I give you that will cause you to do this, if you will do that…of course He knows who will & who won’t keep & obey Him/His commands.
If we don’t have a choice on verse “27,” then I don’t know what it is…faith filled prophetic declarations; ever hoping they will be fulfilled by His Beloved.
Jan

======= Shane:

Oh Jan, I wasn’t trying to start a debate here. No no no, you misunderstand. What I was saying was that there are some contingent promises, and some certain. The Ezek quote is of certain promises. For instance, “you shall heed my ordinances” is a statement of certainty caused by “the Spirit within you [to] cause you” to do so. You see, the transitive verb “cause” is performed by the subject “the Spirit.” See? The same with verse 27, the idea there being that God puts His Spirit in you and causes you to do stuff–good stuff, like following His statutes. This isn’t a free will/bondage will debate kinda verse. It’s a promise from God, which is not modified by “if you,” (examples of which do exist, most notably in Ex. 19) but rather is represented as being certain by “you shall.” The verses leave no doubt as to whether He will be putting His Spirit in those people; it’s a statement fact.
The certainty of that promise is why it is so beautiful and perfect to use. When praying to God we should, in my opinion, focus on the stuff God does, like putting His Spirit in people and causing them to do stuff, rather than on the responsibilities people have. You see?
For instance, if you couch a prayer of Ezek 36 this way, “Lord cause John Smith to walk in your statutes so long as he’s willing to do so,” you’ll be praying a rather ineffectual prayer. Because, isn’t that the case anyway? You’re not asking God to do something He’s not already gonna do, for Christ already stands at the door waiting. Praying Ezek 36, and texts like it, the way it was written places the onus on God to act, Whom we really trust more than John Smith anyway.
Shane

======= Jan:

I am not debating you, just looking at it in another way. I think it is a prophetic declarative statement, because I know & experience His Spirit in me & I don’t always follow his statutes, obey His commands or heed His ordinances…even with the Holy Spirit in me…we do not always obey, it is a choice for us always; even though we are filled to the over flowing with the Spirit of God. We have to choose to be obedient even with the Holy Spirit within us; yes, the Holy Spirit living within us “should” cause us to behave in those ways, but because we have a free will to obey, it is not always the case. I have given my will to Him, but sometimes my own will gets in His/Holy Spirit’s way & I am not caused to follow the Spirit within me…still a choice to obey, which is a condition of disobedience or obedience. I find we have much more responsibility in this love between God & man/woman than we normally realize.
Jan

======= Shane:

That’s cool Jan. I’m just not a free will guy so my worldview is therefore a bit different.
Shane

======= John:

Irony
Family, friends, and co-workers know I have changed. They know the “before” and after” picture of me.
None believe it has to do with accepting Christ as my Lord and Savior. Family thinks I “hit rock bottom” and had nowhere to go but up. Friends think it was a mid-life crisis turnaround. Co-workers think it was a result of a raise and more responsibility.
When given the opportunity to explain, I get the rolling of eyes, the “that’s great that you found something that works for you”, or the “oh no, John has turned into a Jesus freak” look.
In General: They all continue to go through life dealing with families, contributing to the community, checking in periodically at a local church, being “good” people.
I beg them to just start reading the bible – they smile and shrug their shoulders. I even buy them Bibles – but – nothing.
So all I am left with is prayer.
The real irony – it is the “strangers” that listen. They see some photos of me as a down and out “bum” – and they see me now. They listen to my story, and ask questions, They show up at my church, or a Bible Study, or see me and ask more questions.
It is the 82 year old Irish Catholic (from the old country) mother of my best friend that spent four hours with me asking questions at Christmas after hearing my story. Then asking what to read in the Bible. Seeing things she was never taught in the Church. Making her think and pray. My best friend – he thinks I am “nuts”.
Go figure. You never know who you will touch. Ask God for the opportunities to talk to people. I believe that is a “prayer” God will always answer.
Keep praying for friends and family – I know my list is long – but never pass on the opportunity to share with a stranger.
John

======= Anka:

Hmm wow,it’s just so amazing the before and after stories.I won’t go into my story(until I tell my baby sister who’s 18 1st)but my friends who were good people that went to church from time to time(without ever knowing Christ) have seen the difference in me…but won’t listen when I tell them to read the bible either…my party partners have seen the difference as well but they refuse to leave their ways..But all your stories have really encouraged me to keep on keeping on.
On different views:you know the person who knows best lives right in us…I had a time when I began to wonder about some teachings…then I asked the Holy Spirit…you tell me.Wisdom is justified by her children(fruits),sometimes we want to hold on to our beliefs and ideas(doctrines)…if we go about doing the word,I’m sure God will make sure we’re on the right track.
God bless you all
Anka

======= Laura:

Regarding Friends and family: Most of our family belongs to one denomination. My sister is an ordained minister in our denomination as was my late uncle(father’s brother). I know some people in here will probably say that they have a problem with women ministers I do not. My own pastor is also a woman. I feel very blessed to be able to attend church together with my family.
My sister who came to faith long before I did, spent many years praying for me. I heard about Christ and the plan of salvation at a church camp at the age of 17. I had a mountain top experience than, but my faith was not firmly rooted. I spent about 20 years wondering in my own wilderness of sin. It took many years of prayer by my sister and probably countless others I will never know about.
As far as knowing whether or not my family members are on the same spiritual level in their journeys, is not for me to judge. If I had to make a personal determination, I would say no. Most of my family members go through all the motions of being Christians such as, tithing, being active in the church etc… I don’t see some of them attending bible study regularly or being consistant with prayer, but I know in some way God is working on them as He still is with me. I still consider myself as a work in progress.
My youngest brother married into the Catholic faith as is raising his four children Catholic even though he himself was protestant. My mother was raised catholic, but does not follow that faith now. My mother tells me she often prays to Mother Mary. Personlly, I feel and know that is wrong because I believe we are to pray to one Triune God. God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit are one in the same. Thus, I believe in the trinity. All I can do is pray for my mother and tell her how I feel. My mother is active in our Methodist church and we attend together. God will be her final judge and I’ll let it go at that.
As far as friends are concerned, I have some friends who are Christians and some who are not. All have seen a change in me, so I guess I can say that my life has been a sort of witness, and I hope and pray that I have planted seeds in them and they in turn will come to faith.
My best friend became a Christain after I did. Her and I have always been pen pals because we live in different towns about an hour drive apart. We shared some really wild non-Christian times together in our past. When I finally did come to faith, and tried to share my faith with her, it fell on death ears at first. I than decided to pray for her and wrote out the plan of salvation to her in a letter one day. Shortly thereafter,she gave her life to Christ in church by going forward. I wasn’t even there. She later got babtised. She had been a tremenous witness to her family who are all non-christian. I am sure God will answer her prayers for her family and plant many seeds in their lives.
My friend is now active in her church and community and married to a wonderful Christian man. It is the happiest I have ever seen her in all the 25 years I’ve known her. She has finally found the right man and they are very strong prayer warriors.
What is neat about knowing someone else before and after they have come to faith and vise versa, is that you can see the changes in each other and continue to be a postive light and encouragment to one another.
Laura

======= Melissa:

You know, I used to hang on to that verse in Luke 18 – the one you highlighted – like how a man hung on to straw. The verse was my hope that whatever I was doing was going to be worth it.
Because I come from a relatively strict, traditional Chinese family, my turning to Christ was considered a dishonour, and it was very difficult for me to be a Christian. (I often have to hide my bibles!)
I used to be so terrified of my father finding me in church or finding my bibles … so in my fear and terror, I hung on to this saying to myself, “God says this is worth it… God will help me.”
These days are long gone, but I still look at these words with hope and fond rememberance because to me, it’s as if God was saying: “Hang on there.”
BTW, I’m thinking of rejoining the one-year-bible journey! Not sure if I can post my reflections ever day, but your work inspires me, Mike! 
Melissa

======= Mae:

“Are there costs in your life that you are willing to accept to follow Jesus?” ~ Costs … well … hmmm … I don’t really want to say “costs”. Because I’d pay any price, it’s easy for me to follow Jesus because I love Him so much and see what His “costs” were to save me! I mean, that’s one big price! I’m always willing to follow Jesus, no matter what He asks. I love Matthew 4:19 “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will make you fishers of men.” I like being one of the fishers of men. I give my testimony whenever whatever, I want everybody to know that I follow Jesus. It’s not always easy to talk to people on the streets, talking trash back to me because I confront them with God, Jesus, the 10 commandments, eternal life etc. I have a thick skin and I can take it. I feel sorry for those people … so lost in this rotten world. Costs … the costs of losing “friends” and some relatives … yes, that sometimes hurts. But knowing that I have my brothers and sisters in Christ, I can go on and follow Jesus. It’s hard sometimes to see people turning away from you, don’t invite you on parties anymore because the old Mae was much more fun to hang out with. Oh yeah well, tough. Who sais Christians can’t party??? (Jenny??????!!!! Whenever we cross that ocean, we go and party Christian-style, right girl???) I accept these costs (losts), because I want to enter the Kingdom. I asked Jesus to be my personal Saviour, so in order to have Him help me, I need to let go of my old life. So I did … and I’m fine with it. I’m happier than I ever thought I could be.
Todays Psalms were amazing!!!
86:11 “Teach me your way, O LORD,
and I will walk in your truth;
give me an undivided heart,
that I may fear your name”. ~ Don’t we all want the Lord to teach us His ways? I wish I could be more godly than I am right now! I’m learning, I was only saved 8 months ago, I’m still a newborn. But I’d love to have more from the Lord! That’s why I read the Bible every day, that’s why I go to all sermons every week, that’s why I LOVE to talk to other Christians and share thoughts, insights and feelings. There’s a song we sing in church, can’t remember the name. But it’s about being more and more like Jesus. I love that song, that’s why it’s so odd I can’t remember the name. I do fear the Lord, I fear Him because I have great respect for Him and I don’t want to dissapoint Him. He does so much for me, His grace heals me, He teaches me, He loves me no matter what … yes, I fear Him and I love Him like I love nobody else.
Mae

======= Jen:

Joshua
God’s promises are True and they fail us. Jesus is the way the truth and the life.
When we lean on Jesus in hard times He brings us through.
Psalm
The first verse strikes me why would God need to bend down to hear the Psalmist’s prayer. God is all around us. He hears all and even knows our words before we speak them. However, the writer was in need. He needs protection.
Verse 2 – 6 All these things protection, salvation, mercy, content and forgiveness can be ours if He follow, serve, trust, pray and love the Lord our God. Its kinda like a two way thing.
Verse 7 There is a reassurance that if we call upon the Lord in times of trouble He will answer us. Verse 8 No one can do anything like God. Certainty no pagan God.
Verse 9 He made us. Because of what He has done everyone will come and worship and praise Him.
Verse 10 There is only one God and He is wonderful and great. He has performed great deeds like making the earth and all we see, touch, feel and hear.
The Psalmist wants to Gods laws so that He can be acceptable in His sight.
Verse 12 Because there is none like God and because of what He has done we can sing praises with all our hearts. Forever He will be worthy.
Verse 13 God loves us so much. He has rescued us from death.
Verse 14 Even when rude people call us names and people try to hurt us badly. You will protect us. Those foolish people don’t mean anything to You.
Verse 15 You care and offer protection and help to those who love You.
You have considerable patience for those whom love You. Your love never fails.
Verse 16 You give us strength and show mercy towards us if we follow You
Based on my reflections on our Joshua readings today, do you believe that God’s promises are True and won’t fail you? If you are in some sort of slavery to sin or perhaps in a desert place in your life right now, will you reach out to Jesus to save you and lead you into the Promised Land? Do you believe Jesus can Save you and Lead you? And will you follow? Also, what verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings? Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” li
Proverbs
Following God means we have hope even in difficult times. There is always a light at the end of the tunnel of troubled darken times
Jen

======= Angelo:

John 8:36 tells me that “If the Son sets you free, you are free indeed.” I am already freed, because Jesus has already freed me, but it is my choice whether or not I wish to go back into bondage. He sets free from all bondages, strongholds and bindings that the devil may try to set on our lives. But the power of Jesus freedom comes through believing that He has already set me free. Thank the Father for Jesus, that by His stripes, I am healed (Isaiah 53).
And I love that psalm. Its beautiful, because the fear of the Lord is a wonderful thing to have. I read Proverbs and see it mentioned very frequently. My favorite is Proverbs 1:7 and 8:13.
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of all knowledge.”
“To fear the Lord is to hate evil.”
I love the first one so much because it manifested itself in my life. I was saved by the fear of the Lord, because (my 2nd birthday is coming up on the 23rd of this month…Praise God) I recieved the Holy Bible as a present for my 19th bday and I, not knowing why, went immediately to Revelation and began to read it the very nect day. Reading what God was going to do to the people who didnt live for Him (I thought all you had to do was merely believe in Him, but James 2:19 tells us that “You believe there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that- and they shudder.”), I immdeiately was struck with fear. I always believed the Holy Bible to be true, but this was like some Stephen King type stuff times 1,000. And praise God that through fear of Him, I began to live for Him that day and eventually grew to love Him…not just saying it with my mouth, but actually love Him (If you love Me, you will keep My commandments. John 14:15).
And I also enjoy the last one, because I want the mindset that Jesus had, and Philippians 2:5 tells us to “Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus.” Jesus hated sin and still does, so I want to hate sin and hate what is evil; because once I have gotten to that point, temptation loses its illustrious mirage and I wont even have to consider committing an act against the Lord. I know I will never get there until I am fully delivered from this flesh and ressurected, but I strive with all my might to get there. Pray for me.
Angelo

======= Jenny:

Amen Angelo! i hear ya…about hating sin and never wanting to do it n getting to the point of being fully delivered. “Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” matt 26:24
Paul said it best in Romans 7!
13 Has then what is good become death to me? Certainly not! But sin, that it might appear sin, was producing death in me through what is good, so that sin through the commandment might become exceedingly sinful. 14 For we know that the law is spiritual, but I am carnal, sold under sin. 15 For what I am doing, I do not understand. For what I will to do, that I do not practice; but what I hate, that I do. 16 If, then, I do what I will not to do, I agree with the law that it is good. 17 But now, it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells in me. 18 For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh) nothing good dwells; for to will is present with me, but how to perform what is good I do not find. 19 For the good that I will to do, I do not do; but the evil I will not to do, that I practice. 20 Now if I do what I will not to do, it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells in me.
21 I find then a law, that evil is present with me, the one who wills to do good. 22 For I delight in the law of God according to the inward man. 23 But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members. 24 O wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death? 25 I thank God—through Jesus Christ our Lord!”
Jenny

======= Johnnie:

Psalm 86 has so much treasure in it. Definitely one to be looked at and examined more closely.
Johnnie

======= Skip:

Wow!!! Psalm 86:1-17 really stood out to me today. I guess it’s because a part of my life keeps wandering back-and-forth into the wilderness and I know that when I’m in that wilderness there is only one way back, and that’s with the help of Jesus. I struggle to understand why I allow myself to wander into the wilderness. When I’m headed there I’m very conscious of where I’m going and I’m praying to God to help me turn around, but sometimes I feel as if He is also leading me there. I think maybe that the person leading me there is really Satan because God never causes us to sin. I feel God’s presence while I’m going into the wilderness and while I’m in the wilderness and I guess He goes there with me to bring me back. I just pray that I wouldn’t go there at all! If you haven’t figured it out, my wilderness is sin and there are area’s of my life that I am constantly walking along the ledge and falling into the ravine. God helps me keep my balance, but every once-in-awhile; sometimes more than others, I fall off that ledge and need to pray as David did in Psalm 86.
God…stay with me, protect me, forgive me and prepare a place for me so that I can be with you for eternity. In Jesus name I pray.
Yours in Christ
Skip

======= Sean:

It is VERY difficult on the heart to keep praying for those you love to be saved; those prayers are daily admissions of your family’s status as unsaved. But we have a Lord in heaven–A Lord who saved Jacob though he was a deceiver, Moses though he was a murderer, Saul, David…. God has assured us that there will be a “multitude that no man can number” that will be saved, so we must hope in that. Christ has a bride, and that bride will be redeemed. I pray that your family’s eyes will be opened and their hearts changed.
Sean

======= Frederick:

A rich ruler Vs a blind beggar
Luke18:18-30 & 35-43
It is interesting to read Luke 18 today. The rich ruler asked Jesus the ways to eternal life. Yet, his wealth prevented him from following Jesus, although Jesus called him to follow Him. Jesus commented that it is difficult for the rich to be saved. Then, Luke described a blind beggar who met Jesus. The blind beggar called Jesus the Son of David. The beggar ‘knew’ about the identity of Jesus. And finally, he followed Jesus.
These two short stories happened exactly like Jesus’s comments. The rich ruler preferred his wealth to following Jesus. He lost his eternal blessings. The blind beggar received Jesus’s dual blessings–his eyesight restored and his eternal life.
Frederick

======= Terriann:

In Psalm 86, I love how David approached God on the basis of and according to God’s character as opposed to his own merit or worthiness. This requires a knowledge of God’s character that is unshakable. Remember in the garden of Eden, the first thing the serpent did was to question God’s motive for giving the command and Eve bought the lie. David lived a life with many enemies and his circumstances could seem to appear that God had abandoned him but as I read this psalm it become clear that David knew better. In v.5 “You are forgiving and good.”; v.7 “You answer me.”; v.8 “There is none like you.”; v.10 “You are great and do marvelous deeds,” v.15 “You O Lord are a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger and abounding in love and faithfulness.”.
There are times when what we know to be true and what we see around us don’t seem to match up. I like how David verbalizes the truth. We are fortunate to have David’s words recorded for us. I think it would be good to read them out loud so we can hear these words of faith as well as read them.
Terriann

======= Lily:

I have a problem in understanding the old testament of God’s command to destroy everything when Joshua was led to take over the promise land. It seems so brutal. However, commentaries on the reasons behind it (such us removing evil and temptations, and total obedience to God’s commands) gave me a better understanding.
New testament reading (Luke 18).Comes to mind how hard to leave our comfort zone (our riches, familiar surroundings and approval of family & friends and follow God. We can not do it on our own unless we have faith and trust in God.
Lily

========= Duane:

Mike, Its been awhile since I last posted but I read your bible blog everyday. Its wonderful to know how God is using you to help others understand God’s word better and better each day. Please don,t stop doing this wonderful work, its been such a blessing in my life. The bible blog helps me to meditate and reflect and to actually see how well I have understood my reading. There have been many times where I have actually gone back and reread because of your comments and questions. Thanks may God bless you abundantly for all the hours you put in to benefit others.
Duane

======= Chris:

Hey Ramona!
Great words of wisdom.
I’m here watching, reading, meditating, and trying to obey. I don’t often post because I am taking the “easy to read” version of scripture and setting it up with CSS and HTML, oftentimes breaking it down to outlines (like the division of the tribes), and I find that not only does it give me time to “reflect” on the text, but I underscore, bold, and make colorful points that stand out for me.
It has been my pleasure to read the One-Year-Bible from 1992.
After learning I actually COULD read the entire bible, cover to cover, in 30 days–simply by dividing the pages by 30. But, as you indicated above, numbers and many other things just kind of became a blur when attempting to read so much so fast; it just did not penetrate.
I have also, in times past, read the 90-day Bible; very satisfying in that it really puts the timelines together and does not focus on one area and lose context.
Actually, I like all ways of reading scripture, cover to cover.
It is always a pleasure to read what Mike, you, and others here post. It is an encouragement! Do please continue…
HTOITA,
Chris

======= Jill:

Mike you talked about being a slave to sin. Yes I find we become enslaved to many things. Until we recognize it we can’t get out of it. I went thru a dry period where I allowed my circumstances to enslave me. I was locked in a emotional prison I couldn’t get out. The only way I was able to escape it was to recognize it, call on God, seek counsel, get into Bible Studies and study study pray pray ! There is an escape. We let Satan take over but if we put on our full armor of God every morning our lives change.
Jill

======= Dee:

Joshua, God always had his protection of His people the Israelites and especially the Tribe of Judah..
Jesus gave ultimate test..to follow him, those that gave up mother’s, fathers, sisters and brothers for Him..will be given so much more and be blessed because of it.
Psalm & proverbs amazing!!
Teach me your ways Lord! Yes..love my Jesus
Dee

======= Debbie:

Loved “All My Hope” YouTube!! Really had me praising the Lord!
Debbie

======= Ramona:

Joshua 15:1-63
Boundaries, God’s m.o. (modus operandi) are all about setting boundaries. Whether it is separating light from darkness, dry land from wet Genesis 1), sin from righteousness, death from life, God has placed boundaries upon the earth and within Believers not to cross. And when we do, well, we sadly suffer the consequences of our trespasses. Sometimes those consequences drive us toward God, repentance and acceptance of God’s way of doing things, but most often, we are driven down a path of anger, rage and rebellion toward crossing the lines God has set.
The foolishness of man subverts his way [ruins his affairs]; then his heart is resentful and frets against the Lord. (Proverbs 19:3 AMP)
Yet folks, there is Good News. For over 20 years, I raged against God and Jesus Christ. Because of the type of people Luciano posted about earlier in the day, I became a total raving lunatic against anything that smacked of “religion.” I would not go into a church no matter what was going on; I cursed out people, particularly black folk, who I saw reading the Bible on the public transportation system, “Why are you reading that white man’s book!!” I would yell and rant. I would get up in people’s faces all 5’3,” 98 pounds of me (I do not weight that anymore). At the time I had a gigantic afro (I’m dating myself) so I looked like a large Number 2 pencil with a great big eraser completely insane.)
I am sure that one of those people I cursed out prayed for me because years latter I went into an hysterical fit (laughing) when I realized I was now teaching the Bible I so insanely shouted about, to those who were saying the same thing. I know that God is a God of fun because He provided in His salvation, help for someone like me.
Grace and peace,
Ramona

Joshua 13:1-14:15 + Luke 18:1-17 + Psalm 85:1-13 + Proverbs 13:7-8
~ 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 – Interesting – Joshua is an old man already here in chapter 13!  Time is flying quite a bit faster in this book than our past readings about the life of Moses….  It’s estimated that Joshua is between 90 and 100 years old in chapter 13 and Caleb is 85 years old.  In chapter 14 verse 12 we read these words from Caleb to Joshua: “So give me the hill country that the Lord promised me.”  Below is a good image of the hill country of Judah that Caleb sought and received, courtesy of HolyLandPhotos.org:

In Joshua chapter 14 verses 1 & 2 today we read: “The remaining tribes of Israel inherited land in Canaan as allotted by Eleazar the priest, Joshua son of Nun, and the tribal leaders. These nine and a half tribes received their inheritance by means of sacred lots, in accordance with the LORD’s command through Moses.”

New Testament – The story of the persistent widow is fantastic!  I love it…   Verse 4 may be one of the most humorous verses in the Bible – “The judge ignored her for a while, but eventually she wore him out. `I fear neither God nor man,’ he said to himself, `but this woman is driving me crazy. I’m going to see that she gets justice, because she is wearing me out with her constant requests!'”  Great stuff! Jesus teaches that persistence pays off, which I think is very good to consider with our own faith journeys.  Verse 1 is the moral of the story: “One day Jesus told his disciples a story to illustrate their need for constant prayer and to show them that they must never give up.”  Do you pray constantly?  Do you know that you must never give up?

The moral of the story of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector in verse 14 is so important for each of us to remember in our faith journeys – “For the proud will be humbled, but the humble will be honored.”  Anyone remember the old Jars of Clay song, “Faith Like a Child”?  Great tune…  That song and verses 15 – 17 in Luke chapter 18 today remind me that my faith does not have to be super-intellectual or super-mature or super-whatever.  All that is needed is faith like a child – “One day some parents brought their little children to Jesus so he could touch them and bless them, but the disciples told them not to bother him. Then Jesus called for the children and said to the disciples, “Let the children come to me. Don’t stop them! For the Kingdom of God belongs to such as these.  I assure you, anyone who doesn’t have their kind of faith will never get into the Kingdom of God.””

Bible.org’s commentary on our Luke chapter 18 readings today titled “Piety, Persistence, Penitence, and Prayer” is at this link.

Psalms – Psalm 85 is awesome today!  So many great verses…. I love verse 8 – “I listen carefully to what God the LORD is saying, for he speaks peace to his people, his faithful ones. But let them not return to their foolish ways.”   I like that thought – God speaks peace to his people.  Are we listening carefully to what God is saying?  Are we receiving his peace into our hearts?   And so importantly – are we not returning to our foolish ways?  Verse 6 reminds me of the Jeremy Camp tune “Revive Me”, which is an amazing tune – “Won’t you revive us again, so your people can rejoice in you?”   Do you need God to revive you?  Will you pray for revival?

Proverbs – Proverbs 13 verse 7 makes me wonder how we might be “pretending” in our lives today – “Some who are poor pretend to be rich; others who are rich pretend to be poor.”  I wonder if really in some way all of us are pretending to be something we are not?  I don’t know if this will make sense – but I do know that sometimes I feel like an actor.  A faker.  A poser.  And I know that the true path to being genuine and real is through a relationship with Jesus.  True Sincerity comes from Christ alone.  If we are confident in our faith in Jesus, we have absolutely no need to “pretend” or act like we are someone or something else.

Worship Video:  Today’s readings in Luke 18:1 about never giving up on constant prayer reminded me of The City Harmonic’s song “Manifesto:”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o_6JQDsbtlM

Are you singing along with this song? Click here and sing forever!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on two verses of Scripture today: “Jesus called the children to him and said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” Luke 18:16-17 NIV

Prayer Point: Pray that you have faith like a child. Pray that you will enter the kingdom of God by coming to Jesus in faith.

Comments from You & Questions of the Day:  Based on today’s Proverb, are there any areas of your life where you are acting or pretending?  Will you turn those pretensions over to Jesus and be confident in Jesus alone?  Why do you think we pretend to be rich when we’re not?  Or pretend to be poor when we’re not?  Why do we pretend at all?  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:

Joshua 13:1-14:15
I love the fourteenth chapter where Caleb, Joshua’s fellow spy, who believed God and brought back a good report forty-five years before, doesn’t site his age or possibly frailty as a reason for not possessing what had been given to him by Moses. When by right he could have stepped back and let the young folks get the job done, Caleb fought along side the men of fighting age and conquered the land given to the tribe of Judea
Reading his words are thrilling and inspiring. My desire is that I follow after Caleb’s spirit and not die before I’m dead, that I continue to work at possessing what God has promised before the breath of life leaves my body and releases my spirit.
6 …Caleb son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite said to him, You know what the Lord said to Moses the man of God concerning me and you in Kadesh-barnea. 7 Forty-years old was I when Moses the servant of the Lord sent me from Kadesh-barnea to scout out the land. And I brought him a report as it was in my heart. 8 But my brethren who went up with me made the hearts of the people melt; yet I wholly followed the Lord my God.
9 And Moses swore on that day, surely the land on which your feet have walked shall be an inheritance to you and your children always, because you have wholly followed the Lord my God. 10 And now, behold, the Lord has kept me alive, as He said, these forty-five years since the Lord spoke this word to Moses, while the Israelites wandered in the wilderness; and now, behold, I am this day eighty-five years old.
11 Yet I am as strong today as I was the day Moses sent me; as my strength was then, so is my strength now for war and to go out and to come in. 12 So now give me this hill country of which the Lord spoke that day. (AMP)
Caleb’s words send chills down my spine! They are just awesome.
Luke 18:1-17
6 Then the Lord said, “Learn a lesson from this evil judge. 7 Even he rendered a just decision in the end, so don’t you think God will surely give justice to his chosen people who plead with him day and night? Will he keep putting them off? 8 I tell you, he will grant justice to them quickly! But when I, the Son of Man, return, how many will I find who have faith?”
Some have taught, using this Parable as their back-up, that Jesus is telling us to do as the widow did to the evil judge, wear down God with persistent praying for what you want. Kind of like children who successfully modify their parent’s behavior by whining and begging to have something their parents have said they could not have. God’s justice is not like the evil judge’s justice and we don’t have to wear Him down or out. In fact we can’t.
Many times we feel unworthy to go to God to ask for justice because we look at our sins and feel guilty or are too embarrassed to ask. I believe God is saying that doesn’t matter, our prayers our asking for what we need, or even what we think we need, should never cease because he is always ready to hear his children.
Mike I’ve heard of Jars of Clay but haven’t really heard their music although they did do my church’s New Year’s (Watch-Night) Service this past Dec./January, which I obviously didn’t attend.
Psalm 85:1-13
And here are some more awesome verses:
10 Unfailing love and truth have met together.
Righteousness and peace have kissed!
11 Truth springs up from the earth,
and righteousness smiles down from heaven.
Love and Truth, as well as Righteousness and Peace walk hand-in-hand. We speak of true love but we use the word true as an adjective defining the object of our love. We cry out for peace but speak nothing of the righteousness that must exist for peace to stand. Each set; love and truth, righteousness and peace are equal partners and probably form two sides of the same “coin.” I find it intriguing and try to think of the kind of environment that must exist for these four words to make their place in this world and more importantly, in my heart. I’m thinking they must represent the character of God, Jesus, His Son and the Holy Spirit.
Proverbs 13:7-8
Why would the poor pretend to be rich and the rich pretend to be poor, hmmm! The poor in their disguise are trying to elevate their social status above all the other poor; and the rich are trying to fend off those who are desirous of their company and money because they are rich. There are probably many other reasons why the dance of deception are played out does anyone else have any ideas?
Grace and peace,
Ramona

======== Janice:

thank you ramona: for always giving insight to those of us that struggle to get the definition of what the bible is saying….
Janice

======= Emily:

Yes, that widow’s story is one of my favourite ones too! It also reminds me of Jacob’s wrestling with God (or God’s angel) in Genesis. In many religions there is no persistence or intimacy in the faith. The deity is remembered or invited on few festive occasions and is sent back to heavens to be remembered on some other occasion.
Compare this to our personal relationship with the Trinity that is recorded from Genesis to Revelation. Our very perosnal and only true God who cares for us and is with us every moment. The God who is the Almighty and yet He came on this planet in flesh to love, teach and suffer, be ridiculed, tortured, crucified. Such is our loving God, who never forsakes us if we hold onto Him. This is our sweetest comfort and biggest security… that God is with us.
And surely, God looks at the heart. He does not care how intellectually we have come to understand Him :-). David’s deep love for God, his remarkable humility and heart cries before the Lord in times of suffering is what true faith is.
Emily

======= Jim:

Honestly, reading about the division of the land to the tribes of Israel puts me to sleep. Is the detail of the land’s division that important that it has survived thousands of years to be read by someone as far removed from Israel as myself? I’m sure it must have some significance if God allowed it to come this far. Any thoughts from anyone?
The persistant widow is a great story. It is very similar to how we here in Massaschusetts have to be with our local politicians to get them to represent us. I do understand that we need to be this way in our prayer life as well. It serves to increase our relationship and our faith with the Lord.
Jim

======= Roslyn:

Two things stood out for me today from the readings.
First, the image of the tax collector. This is a great reminder of our complete humility in prayer and our total faith in God’s mercy and loving forgiveness.
Second, “…anyone who will not receive the Kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” Oftentimes we get caught up with our own intellectualizations about faith and spirituality that we forget being like little children—-filled with awe and wonder, curious and spontaneous, simple and with so much love and warmth to give, innocent and so easy to forgive…
Until we become like little children, we’ll never hear God’s true message.
Roslyn

======= Anka:

Everyone loves the persistent widow I see…so do I.Sometimes I feel silly asking God over and over cos to me it feels like I am telling God…I’m gonna keep bugging you till you give me an answer:))…then what about the faith issue.He says when you ask,believe you have received it…so if you believe that..why do you keep asking and asking…Well there’s something this season that I really really want so maybe I’ll just keep asking like the widow:)
God bless you all
Anka

======= Duane:

“The ransom of a man’s life is his wealth,” that proverb absolutely blew me out of my seat this morning.
We count the ransom of our souls as well. So those who have given up their lives to follow Christ really have gained everything. After all, if you compared your personal wealth against all of the fortune 500 guys, how does a couple billion dollars compare with the blood of God?
Duane

====== Mae:

I’m back! Finally!!! But unfortunately, I can’t stay too long behind my computer. Especially since it’s warm up here in the den. It’s only Spring and the temperature is 82f! I’m still waiting on my bloodtest-result, but I won’t get that until Wednesday. But I’m happy to inform you that I’m slowly doing better, it’s still not the old Mae, but I have to say that this sunny weather helps me a lot!
Okay, back to the readings:
Luke 18:1 “One day Jesus told his disciples a story to illustrate their need for constant prayer and to show them that they must never give up.” ~ So powerful!!! Yes, I do know I should never give up. But to be honest, I have had my struggles in the past weeks. 1.) Jaden got sick 2.) our kitchen was on fire 3.) I got sick … I mean … WHY?????????? Many times I got down on my knees and asked the Lord “Why???”. I never really thought about ‘leaving the Lord’, but I have to admit that I have been pretty confused. I prayed a lot and that gave me better insights on the situation. Because of my quiet time with God, He could give me directions and He showed me a way of a true breakthrough, and I’m really happy about that!
Psalm 85:8 “I listen carefully to what God the Lord is saying,
for he speaks peace to his faithful people” ~ Hmmmmmmm … good one! God has spoken to me in the past few weeks. For one thing I had no idea it was Him that spoke to me. Well … I sort of thought it was Him, but the thing He asked made no sense to me! My dear friend Gina told me that in a lot of things, we shouldn’t try and understand it. Because God is so much bigger than we can think of. And she was right … who am I to question God? Just obey!!! And I did … well, I’m working on it! LOL I’m working right now on the ‘project’ He asked me to do. So I do know that I have to listen even more carefully to what He is saying.
Psalm 85:11 “Truth springs up from the earth,
and righteousness smiles down from heaven” ~ My wish for the world … to have truth spring up!!
Okay, this is it for today!
It’s good to be back!
Thank yo so much for your prayers, emails & comments! It really helped me!
Mae

======= Jodie:

I know that I am rich with Christ, I have been blessed with a Christian family and I have known Christ personally. It is a loss to not only me but those I come into contact with when I act poor. Those of us who are blessed in Christ have no reason to act poor and we should share our riches! Even when we lose faith and feel poor, we must always remember what He has given us.
“Show us your unfailing love, O LORD, and grant us your salvation”!
Jodie

======= Karen:

Couldn’t help think about Joshua and how obedient he was to God’s directions. Because of other people he had to wait 40 more years to even enter the promised land and then the rest of the years he has been fighting the enemy to conquer the land. I’m thinking, for myself, when do I get to enjoy this wonderful place? Moses didn’t even get to enter the land. Would any of us have the patience and commitment to do what they did for all those years. Oh God, grant me the obedience to your will that Moses and Joshua, also Caleb had in them.
Karen

======= Jen:

New Testament
I pray many times a day as I go about my day I offer up prayers.
I like Luke 18:15-17 I have a 17 month old and hes very active. I find taking him to church but I do. I think its important for us as a family to go to church. I persist knowing that as he gets older he will behave better in church. That one day he will be like his older brother (11) and sit quietly in church. This verse reminds me that even though I find it hard God wants his little one to be in church.
Psalms
forgivness is found in Jesus.
If we believe He gives us peace. We’d be fools to follow Him.
verse 10 love, loyalty, goodness, peace, justice all gifts from God.
Proverbs
a couple of years ago I decided that I didnt want to wear “a mask” anymore. People either accepted me as I was or not. It was up to them but I would be me.
I know I am a daughter of God and if people dont accept me warts and all thats their problem not mine.
Jen

======= Betsy:

I appreciate the patience of Celeb and the understanding and love for peace of Joshua in allowing Celeb have his inheritance. It is not by might or human power but by the spirit of God that we should always possess our possession. Great lesson indeed!
Betsy

======= Skip:

I think people pretend or act so that they feel like they “fit in”. I know I’ve pretended or acted in a way that is not quite me just so that I could fit in with the people I was with. I don’t do that anymore because I don’t feel a need to fit in and I’ve come to realize, quoting what Popeye says, “I am whos’ I am and that’s all thats I am” Toot-toot. :-{D
Yours in Christ
Skip

======= Raeann:

God be merciful to me a sinner. This is my favorite verse in the book of Luke, I say it nightly as part of my evening prayers.
Raeann

====== Lily:

Luke 18: 1-7 I do not know if this is pertinent to the widow’s persistence for her plea for justice. I honestly believe that persistence give results. Where I used to work there was this head of a dept who everybody feared (or should I say, this person seemed to be unapproachable.) I made it a point to say Good morning or hello to everybody I met in the hallway including this individual. Of course he would not even acknowledge my presence. People told me that I was wasting my time. Then one day, I was shock, he returned my greetings. I was surprised to hear him say good morning. Everybody was surprised. From then on we would exchange pleasantries when we passed the hallway. I suppose my persistence paid off. It requires minimal effort on my part to say a greeting and be nice but this simple gesture resulted in a positive outcome. When I decided to move on to another company, he called me in his office and offered me a position in his department. He also told me that he knows of my work in the other department. I told him that I was accepting a part time job to spend more time with my children. I was grateful for his offer. We parted with a kind gesture from him that if the new job does not work out, that he always have a room for me in his department. I will always remember that experience. Whatever we do in life, people around us will notice, either we our God’s children or not. Believe me, I am not always a representative of God in my everyday life. I pray that God will be merciful always every time I stumble.
Proverbs: 13-7 This verse is speaking to me about humility (I may be interpreting it incorrectly). No matter our situation, rich or poor, we should not pretend. If we are rich, we should be humble and not boast. We should share our riches since they come from God. If we are poor we should not pretend to be rich to impress others (afraid to be ridiculed and separated from the society, or coping with the Johneses). We are all equal in the eyes of God.
Lily

======= Rosanna:

Thank you for the bible messages today. I was reminded not to give up in prayer and persevere, no matter what. It reminds me that God will answer our prayers in His time. Another point refreshing me was that God wants our faith to be childlike because just like children we believe and trust our parents, how much more can we trust our Heavenly Father, who is perfect and just. It’s so simple really. You don’t have to be an intellect!! Praise God!
Rosanna

======= Bob:

Proverbs 13:7 The Poser: Jesus brings up this sin in a couple of places that speaks to our ego. We just read about it in Luke 16:15. (Also Math 23:27-28. Is this the church today?). There is a natural pull to be accepted by others (not God). This may be in the form of Bible Knowledge, Spirituality, Jobs, Family, etc. Posing comes out of the fear of a question; do I have what it takes? Usual answer is NO. I like the puffer fish analogy. As soon as there is a threat we blow ourselves up to look bigger. The question is, for our affirmation, do we go to God or Man? If it is Man, we may do it for a number of reasons: I know best, my independence is threatened, consequences frighten me. God can change that by giving us security in who we are with Wisdom, Opportunities, Respecting Loss, Risking Fear, and Courage.
Bob

======= Joyce:

Mike and everyone,
Joshua 14:8-12 NLT
8 but my brothers who went with me frightened the people from entering the Promised Land. For my part, I wholeheartedly followed the Lord my God.
9 So that day Moses solemnly promised me, ‘The land of Canaan on which you were just walking will be your grant of land and that of your descendants forever, because you wholeheartedly followed the Lord my God.’
Like you said, Ramona, such awesome words coming from a faithful servant of God, Caleb. Even more admirable – he had stayed the course of fearing God not people, for forty-five years!
10 … Today I am eighty-five years old.
11 I am as strong now as I was when Moses sent me on that journey, and I can still travel and fight as well as I could then.
12 …But if the Lord is with me, I will drive them out of the land, just as the Lord said.”
I’m repeating some of what you’re quoting, Ramona.
But I am so impressed too, what a fighter for God’s Kingdom Caleb was.
Thank you God for giving us such a faithful example to follow!
Luke 18:1-8 Parable of the Persistent Widow
I’m just learning that this is a parable of persistent prayer with a focus. The focus is Christ’s return, when He will restore all things and bring out true justice.
In the western world we may not suffer because of our faith, but we may be mocked or discriminated as Christians.
When we face any kind of persecutions, may we persistently pray, asking and trusting God for deliverance.
Gratefully,
Joyce

======= Robert:

Proverbs 13:7-8
Poser
A few years back I had the opportunity to join a men’s group and we dug into what a lot of Christian men face in the world when it comes to being true to yourself. A great book and study we dug into was by John Eldredge called “Wild at Heart”. He talks about men and their facade which stems right back to Adam. “We are hiding, every last one of us. We hide in our office, at the gym, behind the newspaper and mostly behind our personality. Most of what you encounter when you meet a man is a façade, an elaborate fig leaf, a brilliant disguise”. The book covers a lot of subjects: men’s deepest fear to be exposed, most men are simply here on earth to kill time, every man carries a wound and needs healing, masculinity, father figure and the search for eve. We live for a battle to fight, a beauty to rescue and an adventure to live. (Through Jesus Christ our Lord).
Robert

======= Dee:

I love Caleb as well..I think about how Isaac spoke of his death way before he ever left this earth, but not Caleb..he was as healthy and strong in his independence now as he was 40 + years ago! That is amazing..
I love that the Lord is always ready to hear our prayers..not like the evil judge but way cooler and chill with our requests, in fact he loves our prayers to Him.
Proverbs..the poor try to act rich, and rich try to be poor..I have seen some rich people really chill and act like pauper and like they don’t have a dime to their name. The poor not sure how they can act rich physically, maybe mentally, or emotionally ..not sure..just be yourself! Much better.
Dee

======= Allison:

V8 in the parable of the persistent widow stood out: “Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?”
Hebrews 11:1 NLT
[1] Faith shows the reality of what we hope for; it is the evidence of things we cannot see.
Hebrews 11:6 NLT
[6] 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.
Biblical faith is man’s response to what God has said. To exercise faith is to have confidence about an expectation without visible proof that it will happen. Faith is acting like God is telling the truth. The persistent widow may be seen as annoying, or someone who had faith.
Hebrews 11 shows many examples of people who did things by faith. “It was by faith that ________ did ________.”
Jesus taught that with God nothing is impossible, so all things are possible to those who have faith. (See Luke 18:27)
The other verse that stood out from today’s reading:
Psalm 85:10 Steadfast love and FAITHFULNESS meet, righteousness and peace kiss each other.
I don’t even have words for the ahhh feeling 
Basically, steadfast love is great, —BUT— include faithfulness in it, —–righteousness and peace kiss each other.
Allison

======= Ramona:

Joshua 13:1-14:15
When Joshua had reached a venerable age, GOD said to him, “You’ve had a good, long life, but there is a lot of land still to be taken. This is the land that remains: …”I myself will drive them out before the People of Israel. All you have to do is allot this land to Israel as an inheritance, as I have instructed you. Do it now: Allot this land as an inheritance to the nine tribes and the half-tribe of Manasseh.” (Joshua 13:1-7 MSG)
I just loving reading the Bible because even when the reading seems dry and non-essential, like nuggets of gold buried in a mountain, something always pops up if you continue in diligence. Let us be as smart as cows, eat the hay and leave the sticks. Who knows when you will develop your palate so that you realize that inside the sticks something wonderful is waiting to be tasted?
Yes, if you cry out for insight and raise your voice for understanding, If you seek [Wisdom] as for silver and search for skillful and godly Wisdom as for hidden treasures, Then you will understand the reverent and worshipful fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of [our omniscient] God. [Prov. 1:7.] (Proverbs 2:3-5 AMP)
What I have gleaned from today’s Old Testament Reading is this: Age, old age, is not the time to become unproductive, God has given, and so you must continue to “take” as long as you have breath to breathe upon the earth. God is listing, though Joshua, all the land He has given them and the boundaries Moses gave to carve up the land. We, have been given, through the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus, New Life. Jesus gave and we accept that gift when we receive Him as our Savior, as well as Lord.
With our acceptance, we become a New Creation [Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
(2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV)]. However, within that “new creation” we must get out those things that are not of God and fill them with newness of life. [So here’s what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life–your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life–and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him. Don’t become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking. Instead, fix your attention on God. You’ll be changed from the inside out. Readily recognize what he wants from you, and quickly respond to it. Unlike the culture around you, always dragging you down to its level of immaturity, God brings the best out of you, develops well-formed maturity in you. (Romans 12:1-2 MSG)]
Again, the Old Testament was written to be an example for us, both in things to do as well as what not to do. (I Corinthians 10)
God is AWESOME,
Grace and peace,
Ramona

======= John:

Little Children
I used to think the teachings on “little children” here and parallel verses in Matthew and Mark was all about being as “humble” as a child. Having worked with large groups of children in the past – I would include and concur with some of roslyn’s observations regarding little children.
Matthew and Mark used the Greek word “paidion” for children. This could mean infants or little children. Luke leaves no doubt – he uses “brephos” MEANING babies.
Babies are too young to have faith. Babies certainly are not humble, as most parents will attest. They want what they want – NOW.
So if the illustration involves babies, what characteristics are we looking to resemble?
One of the great things about this blog is it hooked me up with reading the commentaries of Bob Deffinbaugh. I very rarely disagree with him, and it is usually over a minor point. He brings up analysis that runs counter some other commentators, but he presents it in an affable, logical, consistent style. He has made me rethink several of my pre-existing understandings of the Bible – and that is good.
I will let Bob take over here with some excerpts from his “little children” analysis.
======================================================
“Unlike the other two gospel writers, Luke emphasized the fact that these children which were brought to Jesus were infants—babes. The parallel accounts of Matthew (19:13-15) and Mark (10:13-16) make it clear that these babes were being brought to Jesus to bless by placing His hands on them (Mark 10:16) and praying for them (Matthew 19:13).
We are told that Jewish children were brought to the rabbi for a blessing on their first birthday.”
“I believe that Jesus was using the coming of the children to Him to be blessed as an illustration of the way in which all men must come to Him for a blessing. That is, if we would come to Jesus for a blessing, we must not come in our own strength (the babes were carried), we must not come through our own understanding, our own wisdom, our own good works. We can only come to Christ in our helpless state, looking to Him and to His grace alone. We must come out of our weakness and helpless state, not out of our own righteousness. Here is the difference between all of those who came to Jesus and were “saved” and those who were “healthy” and thus never were saved, because they were too healthy, too good, too pious to need grace. The thing which commends children to Christ is their helplessness, not their goodness. And this is precisely what must characterize every person who comes into the kingdom—they come as those who are helpless and undeserving, entering into His blessings because of God’s goodness and grace, not due to their own merits. Here is the child-like quality which must characterize all who would enter into His kingdom.”
http://www.bible.org/page.asp?page_id=1125
======================================================
I have stated before that it took me quite some time to become “born again”. I said the prayer – and to me – it did not work. Perhaps I was in the process as my pastor said – I believe because I came to God intellectually but with not the right heart – I was not indwelt with the Holy Spirit. It was not until I was in the second week of praying, that I fell into that helpless (like a baby) broken state that salvation occurred. The reason I know – because that was the night I was cured of two illnresses and relieved of an addiction. (Funny how God works in threes : ) That is why Bob’s analysis rings true to me. Perhaps my case was extreme because of the 48 years of having a “hardened” heart. Maybe others “helpless state” is just the sincere acknowledgement that they are sinners and helpless to solve the eternal life dilema on their own. Regardless – Bob’s anlaysis still rings true to me.
John

======= Oriane:

John said: “Perhaps I was in the process as my pastor said – I believe because I came to God intellectually but with not the right heart – I was not indwelt with the Holy Spirit.”
The question I’ll be asking might have nothing to do with today’s reading but I feel this is the right place for me to get an answer. I’ll be happy for the answer to be emailed if not wanting to post here. John…I pasted a bit of your post above because I know that’s exactly where my husband is at at the moment. I gave my heart to the lord in October last year but he hasn’t. He’s puzzled but he’s not wanting to be led by emotions. He asks me questions that I have no answers for. I just know how I feel about walking this path with the Lord. Well..he had a question yesterday that I hope someone can answer as I am fairly new at bible reading. He seems to think that Adam and Eve existed 6,000 years ago which according to him does not agree with the history of the prehistoric man who existed million of years ago. Does it mention anywhere in the bible when Adam and Eve were created? Was it the first books of the OT that might date 6,000 years ago? I hope someone can answer my question or direct me to where I can get this information.As I said I’d be happy for the answer to be emailed to me. Thanks.
Oriane

====== Shane:

Hey Oriane, I’ve had this discussion countless times with countless people. I really think creation dating is a secondary issue. But you’ll see a well thought out explanation of the 7 day creation story (which brings you to about 6,000 years) and the “epic” creation theory, which would be more in line with carbon dating and such. The linked to article is by the PCA denomination, where they tried to come to unity on the issue. They could not, which I suppose is unfortunate for them, but is really good for us because we can see the well reasoned views of both sides.
FYI, before I read the article I was a literal 7 days, 6,000 years guy. Now I lean more toward the epic view.
But where they get the 6,000 years is by doing the geneologies from Adam to Christ.
Hasta,
Shane

======= Emily:

Creation dating is such a tricky subject. Actually, I wasnt even aware of it until I started hearing about it on Christian TV and Christian websites few months back.
I have always been very interested in varied space missions, outer space discoveries, history of our planet, ancient civilizations. It is a matter of extremee interest to me what sort of relationship-if any- God has had with the ancient Egyptians, Chinese, Native Americans and those remote races living in the Arctic circle.
Someone just gave me a book written by a Chinese missionary that shows many characters of Chinese script tell biblical stories like Noah’s Ark!! : )  I am not that sure. Secret things surely belong to God and the rest is human speculation. I remember reading bits from Chariots of God by Eric Von Daniken. It’s funny that Christianity is a great source of making money for the Atheists and non Christians. (Think about Dan Brown’s ”codes”!)
And I think Biblical dating of earth is more of a knee-jerk reaction by some evangelists to shut up science worshippers. But it’s a slippery slope. Bible has lots of metaphors. Purpose of Genesis was to tell the Creation account and inform us that God is the Creator! But trying to decipher Genesis to tell how old earth maybe is as tricky as decihering Revelation and exactly predicting when the Apocalypse takes place.
But still, it is not totally unfair to probe the scriptures to see that they are not detatched from science, reality and the Universe as many sceptics may suggest. 
Emily

Joshua 11:1-12:24 + Luke 17:11-37 + Psalm 84:1-12 + Proverbs 13:5-6
~ 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 – An interesting note on Joshua 11 verse 21 – “During this period, Joshua destroyed all the descendants of Anak, who lived in the hill country of Hebron, Debir, Anab, and the entire hill country of Judah and Israel.”  The descendants of Anak were the giants the Israelite spies feared some 40 years earlier in Numbers chapter 13 verses 32 & 33 – and you’ll recall these verses kept the Israelites wandering in the desert for the next 40 years… “The land we explored devours those living in it. All the people we saw there are of great size. We saw the Nephilim there (the descendants of Anak come from the Nephilim). We seemed like grasshoppers in our own eyes, and we looked the same to them.”  Interesting to see how the fear of 40 years prior had turned into the faith and confidence here in Joshua.  I wonder if this type of change can happen in our lives too?  A change from fear to faith and confidence?  Is there an area in your life where you might need this type of change?  Below is a good map of the nations of Canaan at the time of the conquest:

New Testament – Wow.  I love Jesus’ teaching in Luke chapter 17 verses 20 & 21 – “Jesus replied, “The Kingdom of God isn’t ushered in with visible signs. You won’t be able to say, `Here it is!’ or `It’s over there!’ For the Kingdom of God is among you.””  And truly, of course, literally the Kingdom of God was amongst those Jesus was speaking to with this verse – Jesus himself was there.  But, also the Kingdom of God is still amongst us today.  Jesus has risen from the dead.  He lives in the hearts of men and women.  We do not need to look for visible signs to which we can say – here it is!  Truly, the Kingdom of God can be within you.  And once the Kingdom of God is within you it is amazing to see how Jesus can transform your life and those around you through his peace, grace and power.   Is the Kingdom of God among you?

Bible.org’s commentary on our Luke chapter 17 readings titled “Putting Faith in Perspective” is at this link and commentary titled “Sign-Seeking and the Coming of the Kingdom” is at this link.

Psalms – Today in Psalm 84:5 we read: “Blessed are those whose strength is in you, who have set their hearts on pilgrimage.” Where does your strength come from? God? Or your own will-power? Why might it be a good idea to rely on God for your strength rather than yourself? Have you set your heart on a pilgrimage? Is the pilgrimage toward God? Do you think this will be a life-long pilgrimage? Later in this Psalm, verse 10, we read: “Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere.” This is a song many of us have probably sung before at church. What does this verse mean to you? What does one day in God’s courts look like for you? Why would one day in God’s courts be better than one thousand days elsewhere? Do you look forward to spending an eternity in God’s courts? Is your heart on a pilgrimage to God’s courts?

Proverbs – Proverbs chapter 13 verse 5 – “Those who are godly hate lies; the wicked come to shame and disgrace.” 

Worship Video:  Today’s Psalm reminded me of the terrific song “Better is One Day” by Matt Redman:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XEr5Wn7LHvw

Are you in God’s courts? Click here to enter God’s courts today!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on a verse of Scripture today: “Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere; I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of the wicked.” Psalm 84:10 NIV

Prayer Point: Pray that you are in God’s courts today. Pray that you’ll stay in God’s courts forevermore. Pray that you will not dwell in the tents of the wicked.

Comments from You & Questions of the Day:  Based on this Proverb above, is it ever okay to lie?  I’ve spoken with friends who have said they believe it is okay to lie to preserve an innocent life.  And I guess if you think about maybe someone who saved lives in the Holocaust by lying, then this would seem to be an okay instance to lie?  I mean, you are lying to save an innocent life. Is that okay?  I realize the trick becomes where do you draw the lines on when it is okay to lie.  We could rationalize almost anything saying it was okay to lie because of x, y, z greater good.  This Proverb says those who are godly hate lies.  I am sure we all do hate lying.  But is it ever okay to lie?  To save an innocent life – is it okay?  Please post up in the Comments if you have thoughts on this.  One more thing I just thought of – Jesus never lied.  I’m guessing this is a pretty strong hint to the answer to my questions above…  but, as sinners, could we perhaps lie to save an innocent life and then confess it to God right away??  🙂  This is some tricky theology ground I’m treading – and probably not very well…  I’m sure there are books written on this subject right??  Yeah, I know, the book by Moses about the Ten Commandments….  🙂  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.

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======= Ramona:

Joshua 11-12:24
As I read today’s passage I immediately thought about one of David’s Psalms, the second one to be exact.
1 Why do the nations rage?
Why do the people waste their time with futile plans?
2 The kings of the earth prepare for battle;
the rulers plot together against the LORD
and against his anointed one.
3 “Let us break their chains,” they cry,
“and free ourselves from this slavery.”
4 But the one who rules in heaven laughs.
The Lord scoffs at them.
Why do we fight against God and His people? It’s a futile act and will only lead to our destruction.
Luke 17:11-37
I love the story about the ten lepers. I love it because it shows the mercy of God toward the nine healed lepers who either didn’t notice or didn’t bother to turn back and give thanks. The Samaritan, a non-Jew, understood and valued what had happened. How often do we Christians miss out on everything God wants to do for us because we are ungrateful and unthankful? This story not only convicts me of how casual I treat my relationship with God but it also reminds me that the simple act of giving thanks to God is the ultimate act of graciousness. There is nothing I can really do for God, yet He allows me to co-labor with Him when He really doesn’t need my help. Thanks be to God!
Psalm 84:1-12
1 How lovely is your dwelling place,
O LORD Almighty.
2 I long, yes, I faint with longing
to enter the courts of the LORD. With my whole being, body and soul,
I will shout joyfully to the living God.
Continuing with my thoughts from the Gospel reading, this too reminds me that there is nothing better then giving thanks to God and enjoying His Presence in my life. Having an attitude of gratitude is everything.
Proverbs 13:5-6
Proverbs is not only a book about cause and effects, how behavior effects our lives and the lives of others, it also gives lessons in “profiling.” It doesn’t profile based on race, ethnicity or culture, it profiles people’s character by connecting choices with core beliefs and values. Our choices are not based in a moment of time but are rooted in our character. Proverbs teaches us to work on our character and discern the character of others.
Grace and peace,
Ramona

======= Shane:

Is it okay to lie? The answer, for those who believe the Bible, must reply, “Yes, in limited circumstances.” Here are two examples: 1) the women who lied about having Moses; 2) Rahab who lied to save the lives of the spies. There can be no doubt but that those were both sanctioned by God.
The distinction is the same as between murder and killing. Murder is always wrong, but not all killing is murder. Otherwise, Joshua would be in some serious trouble!
All that to say that I think a very strong argument could be made for biblical lying for military reasons (Rahab), and for the purpose of saving life (Moses).
Shane

======= Luch:

Re ‘is it ever right to lie’ I agree with shane that there seems to be room within God’s ‘value system’ for lying to save a life. Witness Hebrews 11:31 the chapter on heroes of the faith, and Rahab was given honourable mention alongsidE Moses and a bunch of other heavy weights. As Francis Schaeffer once said, “God blessed her faith if not her morality.” Or how about the hebrew midwives in Exodus 1:11-19 who chose to obey God rather than a fanatical, manaical ruler. I guess in some very limited circumstances it’s not just okay to lie, it’s the wisest and most loving thing to do. Last thought, what about Brother Lawrence who has smuggled Bibles in past years into what were once closed countries, or the survivors of The Hiding Place during world war 2 where Corrie Ten Boom and her family hid Jews from the Nazis?? Just a few heavy thoughts to ponder on a very delicate subject.
One more thought I was encouraged by today in Psalm 84:5-7 “Happy are those who are strong in the LORD who set their minds on a pilgrimmage to Jerusalem. When they walk through the Valley of Weeping (otherwise called “baca” it will become a place of refreshing springs, where pools of blessing collect after the rains! They continue to grow stronger, and each of them will appear before God…” I have seen this to be true of my wife, Rosetta, who has been battling breast cancer since October. She has completed five rounds of chemo treatment, with 3 to go. She and I have been going through our own Valley of Weeping, but we, especially is coming through it with greater ‘inner person’ strength than ever. “The outer man is perishing but the inner man is being renewed day by day.” REading the Word of God daily sure does help the inner man be renewed as the outer suffers with hair loss, as well as other physical manifestations. The other night on Holy Thursday, Rosetta led our life group of 12 through the most beautiful Passover, communion meal. She is growing stronger through this. Her favourite verse these days has been Job 1:10 where Job exhorts his wife and says, “You are talking…foolish. Shall we accept good from God and not trouble?” I think this in part is what it means to grow stronger as we all go through our own valleys that may be life threatening.
Our hope is solidly anchored to our Risen Jesus!!!
Luch

======= Roslyn:

On Mike’s question about lying: Is it wrong to lie?
God gave us laws to follow, that’s true. Although it’s not about lying, Jesus himself negated the law to cure the sick on a Sabbath which shows that life is more important than the law.
Kohlberg, a famous pychologist, did a research about a moral dilemma story involving children, adolescents, and adults. The moral dilemma concerns stealing vs. saving a life. In this instance Heinz (this was obviously a fictitious story) was desperately trying to save his wife who was dying of cancer, ended up stealing the drug that he couldn’t afford to pay for because the pharmacist would not budge to bring down the price of the drug. The question that was asked which is a very similar quetion that Mike asked: is it wrong to steal the drug to save Heinz’s wife? To make the story short, adult thinking individuals who have reached the highest level of morality or the so-called post-conventional level said that it is okay to steal to save the life of Heinz’ wife.
To me, this is no different from the behavior of Christ when he had to cure the sick (save life) despite negating the law (keeping the Sabbath holy). Christ obviously typifies the highest level of morality which
is —LIFE IS PARAMOUNT and is above any law. Which to me is no different from the commandments being summed up with the word LOVE!!!
Lying to save life is different from compulsive lying or what some people call “congenital lying”.
Re God’d kingdom being in our hearts. True, until we find Him first in our hearts we will never find him anywhere…
Roslyn

======= Emily:

Interesting bit to reflect on. Lying for good or the purposes of God. Notably, Joshua also sent some men to spy out the land before invading Jericho. Of course spying itself has ulterior motives and is designed to deceive one party.
Now let’s compare it to God’s Ten Commandments. In many Bible commentaries and maybe also some bible translations one of the commandments simply reads, ”Do not lie.” But if we look up in the Bible (Exodus chapter 20) after, ”You shall not steal”(no exceptions) is ”You shall not bear false witness against your neighbour.”
I think it is clear that the malicious lies, like the lies of Satan are the ones Bible commands us to stay away from. It is ok to conceal information for noble purposes or save human life. There is a clear distinction.
Emily

======= Ramona:

Mike you asked, >>This Proverb says those who are godly hate lies. I am sure we all do hate lying. But is it ever okay to lie?>>
The answer for me is, No!! Do I lie? Yes. Do I feel bad when I do it? Yes, you bet’cha The saying, “Honesty is The Best Policy,” is not correct, it is “Honesty is the Only Policy.” For me the problem of lying is this, “If I can’t believe the words that come out of my mouth, I will not believe anything that comes out of anyone else’s’ mouth. If I have a problem with my own words, their truth, I will have a problem receiving the Words of God. Not only will I begin discounting what others have said, I will discount God’s Words. If I require others and God to stand by their Words and I don’t, then I am a hypocrite, demanding from others, including God, what I am unwilling to do myself.
The second part of your question, >>To save an innocent life – is it okay?>> For this answer I will go to the Word of God (But if you operate with a policy that it is O.K. to lie, then God’s Word is up for negotiation and it will be discounted when it makes you feel uncomfortable),
Since all have sinned and are falling short of the honor and glory which God bestows and receives. (Romans 3:23 AMP)
Since the word “all” means none are excluded, then NO ONE, nobody, is innocent in God’s eyes, though we may be innocent in man’s eyes. Yet no man or woman has a heaven or hell to put me in so I have to go with what the Word of God states. Reading the Bible not only takes discernment but it also takes understanding of who is speaking. If I go into the Public Records and begin reading transcripts of trials, what I read is the truth of what was said in that trial; however, if someone has committed perjury by the words they speak, then what I read of that person’s testimony will be truly stated but it will not be the truth.
I am told by Paul to do this,
PATTERN YOURSELVES after me [follow my example], as I imitate and follow Christ (the Messiah). (1 Corinthians 11:1 AMP), so my model is Christ because no one else died for me or could die for me who is able to deliver me from the Judgment but Him.
Ramona

======= Jan:

Proverbs – Proverbs chapter 13 verse 5 – “Those who are godly hate lies; the wicked come to shame and disgrace.”
“I am sure we all do hate lying.” I do so wish this statement were true. I’m not sure many people in the “world” even know the desruction of lying…they take the “truth” so lightly. The “world” is a lie (prince of the world is satan, the father of lies).
Even we as Christians/Believers believe the “lie” in our own lives or we whould not act/behave the way we do. When we manifest actions contrary to Christ, we are believing the “lie” instead of the “truth!” It is hard to see it this way, but it is the “truth” instead of the lie.
If you read “Be Transformed” you will come to understand living the “truth” instead of the “lie”…knowing just who we are in Christ, which is the Way, the Truth & the Life. Lies are death & Truth is Life…HE IS THE TRUTH & satan is the lie. It will always be black & white…no gray areas. Yes, Rahab lied…it doesn’t mean it was not wrong, but that the outcome was right…does that make sense to you/all of us?!?!?! I’m not sure it makes sense to me, but it is the “truth!” I hate lying & I don’t lie 90% of the time, but I have lied & probably will in the future, which is sin. To do something wrong & know it, is sin to us all (or at least that is what the Word of God says in the Bible).
I could never figure out why even as a child I hated lying…but over the years I have got revelation & still getting revelation as to why I hate/hated lying so much. My Father is the Father of Truth & that is why I desire & yearn for the Truth in all things…even as a child. I was saved & baptized at 9 years old…sealed with the Holy Spirit at that moment & it took me until 1976 to start that personal relationship with HIM; although HE protected me all the years in between because I did make a decision & I was sealed with the Holy Spirit, just without knowledge/disciplship/truth or vision…yet HE preserved & protected me because of that one decision that I made. I continue to grow in HIM, because I desire & yearn for HIS truth, even though I manifested living lies instead of His truth in my life…not knowing who I was in Christ. I know now more than ever just who I am in Christ & there is no offense in living this way…fiery darts just go right over my head & I walk in a freedom to love that I have never known before…ever growing in the love walk by yearning for His Truth & living the Truth instead of the lie.
BTW: Transformation comes in reading His Word/the Bible & our minds being renewed to His Truth, the Ultimate Truth of Eternity. We will never know who we are in Christ till we know Him/His Word…this will just not happen. We will also perish without His Truth/Knowledge/Vision & we must have the Holy Spirit to gives us daily revelation of His Word…because His Word is alive & living in us when we read it…it is poweful to heal us in all ways; soul, mind & body…our Spirits/His Spirit within us is already perfect as He is…it is just getting our souls, minds & bodies to line up with our spirits (which is He living within us…the Kingdom of God is within us)…that sets the plumbline for the soul, mind & body to follow.
A little preachy this morning…imagine that?!?! 
Jan

======= Becky:

Is it right to tell a lie to save a life? One thinks of Corrie Ten Boom and saving the Jews from the Nazis. One dictionary definition of a lie is “to withold information from someone who has a right it it.” So it would be okay to lie to a Nazi soldier searching for a Jewish child. You’re right, Mike– books have been written about this–and just war theory–it’s a can of worms! However, I agree with what Norman Geisler has written and I’m going to quote him since he’s a much better writer than I am:
“…each moral law is absolute in its hierarchy. That is to say, for a Christian the hierarchy of values is set up by God in accordance with His nature and is therefore absolute. God has established that He is first, persons are next, and things are last. Likewise, the same God who instructs us to obey our parents also tells us not to worship idols. Hence, if a parent should command his or her child to worship an idol, the child’s higher moral obligation is not to do so.”
And “When two or more absolutes come into conflict, the Christian is responsible for obeying the greater comandment. The Christian is not held guilty for not following the lesser of two.”
Becky

======= Tina:

about lying, i believe that no matter how you look at sin, it is still sin. a lie is what it is. i believe also that if you are in a situation like discussed above, then it is necessary to discuss it with the Lord first. what is His will in this situation. does he want me to take a stand, and deny giving information, instead of lying? too many times we do things without consulting God first. there is always time to pray. pray that God gives you the strength each day to be honest. that is always the best. God bless you, and what you are doing with you bible study.
Tina

======= Nasser:

to lie to save an innocent life bib;ically is wrong sometimes in our ministry we are doing something with unbelief people so as we can have them opportunity to witness to them about Jesus our lord by doing so is it we are lying to people we are serving . sometimes they ask us what exactly you are here for what is your purpose of doing releif and community development ?
is it a cover of what really you doing? sometimes i do not know what to think about this ?
please give your opinion about this ? i know there is a lot of ministries is doing this so as they can reach people under cover and show them the light of Jesus through their activities.
Nasser

======= Skip:

Is it Ok to lie to save an innocent life? I think most of us will say that our first reaction would be yes!, of course I would lie if it was to save an innocent life! But…the scriptures are very clear about lying. THOU SHALT NOT LIE! This commandment doesn’t say, Thou shalt not lie except if…. or except when …or except to, it states very, very clearly, THOU SHALT NOT LIE. Jesus should be our example. Jesus never lied and if we are to follow Him and be like Him, we should not lie.
There were times when I thought the only way to help someone or to not hurt someone’s feelings was to lie. But when I stopped and thought about it for even a moment, there was a way to accomplish the same end result without lying. I’m sure if you stop and think about the lie you are about to say or tell, you too will come up with a way to accomplish the same end result without lying. Remember what Jesus told John of Patmos in Revelation:
Revelation 21:8
8 “But cowards, unbelievers, the corrupt, murderers, the immoral, those who practice witchcraft, idol worshipers, and all “LIARS” (emphasis added)—their fate is in the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death.” (NLT)
Again…there really isn’t anything to question. We should not lie for any reason.
Yours in Christ
Skip

======= Renee:

I think the bible teaches very strongly not to lie, but there are examples in the bible where people were blessed because people chose to lie. I think this makes it difficult to say that lying in every circumstance is wrong. In Genesis when the edict was given that all Hebrew children (males?) should be killed, the midwives reported to Pharoh that they couldn’t get there in time to deliver the babies. This is a lie; they just refused to kill them. (That could be my interpretation, but it seems like that’s what they were doing.) And again when Rahab was asked if she’d seen Joshua she lied flat out and was blessed for it. Jesus is one of her descendants! So there are biblical examples where it appears that lying was at least tolerated. I don’t think that means we should do it, but I can’t say conclusively that lying is wrong in every circumstance.
Renee

======= Mick:

Do not bear false witness is not the same as do not lie althought the spirit is the same. False testimony is intended to do harm, to produce a wrong result for another person. Lies are wrong and falsehood is evil but may not be more evil than another outcome. Lies are sometimes matters of silence more than of speech, the sin of omission applies surely, and few could claim to always avoid it, and many would happily support such “untruth” in a better cause. Ethically we rarely choose between good and evil only betwen better and worse; surely the use of a lie (spoken or silent) may well be right as the better option? YIHS
Mick

======= Tim:

I wrote a blog post on the whole issue of lying, where I stated that (IMHO) lies are the root of all evil more so than the love of money, because they stem from the Liar himself and even “white lies” are ultimately deceptions, regardless of how we try and dress them up. The sad thing is that the best of us do it and therein lies (pardon the pun) the measure of us – to be able to be honest no matter what the cost, is the greatest gift I think you can give to your fellow man. However, I’m also reminded of Rahab who openly lied in order to save the spies, and I’m sure many throughout the ages have done similarly, and yet I have to wonder if it can ever be truly justified for us. I think too though that if we lie about small things, it is an indication of how easily we will lie about much more important issues. Food for thought perhaps. Blessings,
Tim

======= Terriann:

When you discussed the topic of lying and if it is ever OK I thought about Rahab back in chapter 2. She lied to the king’s men to protect the spies and then utters words of faith that could only have come from the Holy Spirit. One might argue that she did not know God’s commandments but she knew that Israel’s God was the God of all the earth. It appears that the spies also asked her to continue lying on their behalf. Is keeping a secret a form of lying? Is saying something that is technically true but has the intention of deception another form of lying? Isn’t being a spy a lie in and of itself? Christianity is all about Truth with a capital T and I think we should hate lies and always seek to live our lives with honesty and truth. It should mark our character. I also think that it is an over simplification to just say never ever lie no matter what.
Teriann

======= Anka:

“Except for the Hivites living in Gibeon, not one city made a treaty of peace with the Israelites, who took them all in battle.”….I couldn’t keep thinking of the humility of these people….All the other nations must have heard about Israel(Rahab confirms that)but they thought they could save themselves with their own power…they lost..it also says that God hardened their hearts…well since God is no respecter of persons I think(may be wrong and I welcome any corrections)God saw the conceit in their hearts and fore knew they’d never submit to Him.The Hivites lied,deceived…yep…but they came to ask for mercy…they maybe thought they were not worthy to stand before the Israelites so they acted up a bit..In the end when they were attacked Israel fought for them too…
I kinda thought…like us we need to humble ourselves before God,see ourselves as not worthy…and He will fight for us too.I don’t see God admonishing Joshua for not asking Him before signing a peace treaty…not do I see God being so mad at the Hivites for lying either…He knows we are human and sinful…He asks us to come just as we are and accept His sovereighty..He’ll adopt us..and clean us up…
God bless you all
Anka

======= Jim:

I can relate many things in my life to how the Israelites were when they feared the descendants of Anak, then 40 years later they defeated them. My wife and I have a new baby and for years I didn’t want kids because I feared parenting would be my downfall (pretty siily, I know). But now, three weeks into fatherhood, I find I’m approaching it with ‘faith and confidence’. It’s a lot of work but God provides the strength as needed… moment by moment. I try to always remember that God knows every challenge I will face. He knows it better than I ever will and he will provide my strength. I just need to have faith that what happens is the will of God. Maybe it seems simplistic, but the simpler the better for me.
Mind you, I have failed and fallen far more times than I can count, but by the grace of God do I keep going.
Take care,
Jim

======= Jenny:

Amazing to see that map which is still modern day Israel, tho it ceased to be a nation but then was reestablished as God brought the Jews who had been dispersed “from the four corners of the earth” and Israel was reestablished as a nation in 1948. Israel is still the most discussed nation today! the majority of end time prophesy is in regards to Israel! Israel is, was, and remains God’s primary focus! It just fascinates`me truly! In fact, gotta go to night church soon and my pastor will be discussing Israel, end time prophesy. if anyone is interested in hearing it, go to kwve 107.9 fm in southern CA or their website: http://www.kwve.org Or go to my site and i have a link under Big Tent Revival that you can view a live broadcast. should be awesome!!
hmm..the lying thing is tricky…we arent to lie..but like in the first chapter of Joshua, Rahab hid the spies…that was lying but it was blessed. I know many Christians smuggle Bibles and such into other countries or they disguise the bibles as something else. I always wondered about that. Is that ok? its technically lying. The Bible says we arent to bear false witness which means make something appear one way when its another.
I’m sure most of us wont ever have to lie to save an innocent life. Look at the girl in the Columbine shooting..she was asked if she believed in God with a gun to her head. she could have easily said no, then asked God to forgive her, but she didnt. She chose to die rather then deny God and her testimony has spoken to many many people! So yes, i’m anxious o hear others’ thoughts on this!
I love in Joshua, the fear turned to faith and confidence. This is my life testimony…I was soooo shy and fearful as a youngster, like jr high, high school, even early 20s, i was the shyest person ever. In that, I was an easy target for bullying. I think i cried every day in 7th grade. I couldnt talk…ppl would talk to me and I just couldnt get a word out! But this bullying, along with emotional/physical abuse led me to self hatred, self destruction like suicide attempts, cutting, eating disorders, etc and anger. I had a fear of guys growing up, they picked on me so bad…i couldnt walk past a group of guys without hearing some mean comment. I had a fear of men also bcos I had a difficult relationship with my dad, I was so small and powerless and he and all guys seemed to take their anger out on me. My dad hurt me very bad (its forgiven, i’m very close with him today n i love him more then words!!!) Eventually I slid away from God, but He worked on me the whole time, even the times I turned from Him. he used so many things to change me to a person of confidence and perseverance moreorless. I am still deep down a bit shy, a loner, an introvert…just who i am, but I’m pretty much outgoing, friendly, positive and social. People who know me now think I’m this outgoing person and assume i had tons of friends in high school and its just a miracle my life has turned so much. that anger i had in me is gone. that doubt…maybe God doesnt love me, maybe He hates me..thats gone. I realize all this was the enemy working on me big time.
this ties in with Psalms: “Blessed are those whose strength is in you” God is my strength because i know who i was before. I know very young on, like in 7th grade, even then i knew God was fighting for me and delivered me from so much. i used to just cry and pray to God, why do ppl pick on me? i did nothing to them! I’ve had the blessing of finding one of my bullies on myspace and writing him about how much he hurt me but that i forgave him. he never replied but i am released from that pain now! I love forgiving others!! It frees us!
Church was awesome! man….so many prophesies concerning Israel fulfilled and Eze 37-38 is amazing…some stuff going on! the Hezbolla (sp?) have rearmed themselves with 38000 bombs and are planning on attacking Israel this summer, this could be the attack described in Eze. 38. who knows, but extremely unbelievable times we are in! OK, so I got to the Bible readings.
In the readings I was amazed that we just went over at church, the land God promised to Abraham in Genesis and this is the land talked about in our Joshua readings.
8 in the mountain country, in the lowlands, in the Jordan plain, in the slopes, in the wilderness, and in the South—the Hittites, the Amorites, the Canaanites, the Perizzites, the Hivites, and the Jebusites.
Compare to Genisis 15:18-21
18 On the same day the LORD made a covenant with Abram, saying:
“To your descendants I have given this land, from the river of Egypt to the great river, the River Euphrates— 19 the Kenites, the Kenezzites, the Kadmonites, 20 the Hittites, the Perizzites, the Rephaim, 21 the Amorites, the Canaanites, the Girgashites, and the Jebusites.”
Luke 17 shows how important it is to thank God for what He does, not merely get healed/blessed and run off to life as normal, but to be and live and thankful life.
Oh, I love this psalm…i’m sure many recognize the lyrics to Better Is One Day in Your Courts!
I love vs 11-12: ” For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly. O LORD of hosts, blessed is the man that trusteth in thee.”
Jenny

========= Jackie:

Joshua
Im not sure about fear leading to confidence and faith. I do know that while last year was deeply distressing for me. God brought me through it and therefore I now have more faith in Him.
Luke
I know that without God in my life today Io would not be where I am today. God gives me hope, unconditional love and protection. He is my rock. He truly is wonderful.
Psalm
I love my church. I find that if I miss going to church for a week or more I miss it. I love the fellowship, the singing and the fact that this is another place where I can feel close to God.
He is my King and my God. At my church there is actually a birds nest near the church hall where we have coffee and fellowship after church.
Im wondering verse 4 goes on to discuss heaven. We will live in Gods house then and we will spend our days singing praises to God whom along with His Son allowed us to live there in the first place.
If we believe and love the Lord he will bless us.
When we go though hard times He is right beside us and brings us though.
When we are weak. He makes us stronger.
He came to save us. He answers prayer. He protects us. I am one of his chosen. How wonderful that is!!!
I like to think He is looking down from Heaven and smiling down on me one of His daughters.
It will be wonderful being in Heaven one day with Him. It is also being at church.
It is a good place to be. And if we are thinking eternally its much better than being in the alternative place.
He treats us much better than we deserve.
My strength comes from God. He has seen me though some very difficult times.
He has our lives in His Hands He knows the best way for things to turn out therefore it makes sense to trust in Him.
My life is a journey with the final destination being with God in Heaven.
Proverb
I would normally say one should never lie. However, when you have to save an innocent life. Then I would probably would. However, then Id be terrified that the enemy would see right though me. I pray we are never put in this position.
Jackie

======= Raeann:

The book of Deuteronomy is full of Moses preparing his people to enter the promised land on the other side of the Jordan. Moses reminds the people of there journey in the wilderness. Moses reminds the Israelites of several things that he had already taught them, love the LORD with ALL of your heart, to follow the law and commandments that GOD had given them on Mount Sinai and of all of the lands that they had conquered on this side of the Jordan. When Moses defied GOD he is forbidden to cross over the Jordan to the promised land. The LORD gives the Israelites his blessings for obedience and his punishments for disobedience to GOD. The LORD will walk among the Israelites in the promised land at HIS HOLY sanctuary among the people. Moses blesses the people before he dies. Moses dies in the mountains of Jericho over looking the promised land. I enjoyed reading the book of Deuteronomy.
Raeann

======= Lily:

I agree with Ramona. Many times we forget to thank God for all our blessings. In the midst of all the blessings (such as in an affluent society) we forget to thank God and just merrily move on until one day, the blessings are taken away. I pray that I will be cognizant of God’s blessings everyday and thank God. As I wake up every morning, I try to remember that the day is a gift from God.
Guilty of white lies. This is an area of my life where I need growth. I feel that I am protecting others from heartache by telling a little white lie or am I protecting myself instead. I pray to God that I maybe truthful all the time.
Lily

======= Marabel:

Mike’s thoughts: ” Interesting to see how the fear of 40 years prior had turned into the faith and confidence here in Joshua. I wonder if this type of change can happen in our lives too? ” D. Bernard Wright says in his book Squashing Grasshoppers: “They saw giants in the land but seeing the giants was not the problem. They saw giants before them, but they saw themselves as grasshoppers. The problem was not the giants but the grasshoppers. They made the tragic mistake of seeing themselves in a way that was totally inconsistent in what they were and what they were called to do. They no longer saw destiny, but obstacles. They saw themselves as grasshoppers, and the enemy as giants. In reality, the reverse was true.
Marabel

======= Ross:

What about the Rahab when she hid the two young spies in Joshua 2- didn’t she lie? It seems that she deceived the guards who were trying to find the spies. I don’t think it is as straight forward as you make it. God honored Rahab’s deception (read- Lie).
Ross

======= Reuben:

Ross,
I think it would be a mistake to assume that lies such as told by Abraham, Lot, Rahab, etc. were condoned by God per se. He works through sinful people to accomplish his ways, that much is clear.
If I were in any of their shoes, I might have lied as well … but I would not assume that means that God approves of it.
Reuben

======== Barbara:

Corrie Ten Boom’s sister Betsy would not lie and in fact told the soldiers coming into their home one day that there were people hidden under the table in the kitchen. The Lord covered her and they did not pursue this at that time. I think if we trust God to protect us we never have to lie although we often do. We will never know in these cases what God might have done had we depended on Him.
Barbara

======= Bob:

In Victor Hugo’s Les Miserables, we see a lie told to help another. In the story when the saintly bishop takes Jean Valjean in after his release from prison, Valjean responds by stealing the silver candlesticks from the bishop’s house; then when he’s caught with them and the police drag him back to the scene of his crime, the bishop says, “Oh, he didn’t steal them! I gave them to him!”
This is one of those rare occasions when lying makes sense. Valjean is so moved by this goodness that he resolves to become a better person, and does.
The bishop says, ‘Jean Valjean, my brother, you no longer belong to evil, but to good. It is your soul that I buy from you; I withdraw it from black thoughts and the spirit of perdition, and I give it to God.’
Bob

======= Marie:

Didn’t Rahab lie to protect the Hebrew spies?
” So they went and came into the house of a harlot whose name was Rahab, and [a]lodged there. 2 It was told the king of Jericho, saying, “Behold, men from the sons of Israel have come here tonight to search out the land.” 3 And the king of Jericho sent word to Rahab, saying, “Bring out the men who have come to you, who have entered your house, for they have come to search out all the land.” 4 But the woman had taken the two men and hidden them, and she said, “Yes, the men came to me, but I did not know where they were from. 5 It came about when it was time to shut the gate at dark, that the men went out; I do not know where the men went. Pursue them quickly, for you will overtake them.” 6 But she had brought them up to the roof and hidden them in the stalks of flax which she had laid in order on the roof. 7 So the men pursued them on the road to the Jordan to the fords; and as soon as those who were pursuing them had gone out, they shut the gate. Joshua 2:2-7
She was not honest when asked about these men, but her dishonesty saved them.
Marie

======= Sarah:

In Joshua chapter 2, Rahab lied in order to protect the two spies, because she believed in the Lord of Israel. Rahab’s whole family was saved. I think God sees our motives and our hearts. I’m a teacher; when students ask me if they’re doing a good job after putting efforts in projects/assignments, I always say yes before offering suggestions, even when it’s really not a good job. Hopefully I won’t be punished by God for this kind of lies…
Sarah

====== James:

Mike,
I agree with Ramona’s statement about lying. Many times we do it out of “fear” and that in itself doesn’t justify it. What would I do if someone put a gun to my head and told me to denounce Jesus Christ or die. What would I do? Out of shear terror I would probably lie. But that doesn’t make it right. If I told the truth in faith or refused to denounce Jesus perhaps my death would lead to “new life” for many others who witnessed or heard of this happening.
On a much lighter note, sometimes we lie because we don’t want to hurt the feelings or be a burden to another. I think of the hundreds or more times someone has asked me “so how are things going today for you?” and rather than being totally honest my response is “fine thank you”. Or politely laughing at a joke we really thought wasn’t funny because we just wanted to be “polite”.
I believe God likes “tests”. Many I have failed over and over again but every now and again He proves to me that I need to trust Him in being obedient. I remember one such instance where I set up an investment account for a friend. Weeks later I found out that one part of the description of the investment was explained incorrectly by me. I knew I had to face the music and share this with my friend unsure how he was going to react. I was nervous but I prayed about it and obeyed God by going to my friend to reveal what I explained incorrectly. After I gave my friend this explanation / clarification, my friend said, “Oh that’s fine it really doesn’t change my mind about the investment as it won’t effect my goal for this, thanks for letting me know, no problem” says my friend. Situations like that don’t always turn out in a happy ending but sometimes the Lord will reveal it’s not always the outcome we expect when we trust Him to be “truthful”. We just need to trust Him in everything. I pray that I will.
Blessings to everyone!
James

======= Robert:

Proverbs 13:7-8
Poser
A few years back I had the opportunity to join a men’s group and we dug into what a lot of Christian men face in the world when it comes to being true to yourself. A great book and study we dug into was by John Eldredge called “Wild at Heart”. He talks about men and their facade which stems right back to Adam. “We are hiding, every last one of us. We hide in our office, at the gym, behind the newspaper and mostly behind our personality. Most of what you encounter when you meet a man is a façade, an elaborate fig leaf, a brilliant disguise”. The book covers a lot of subjects: men’s deepest fear to be exposed, most men are simply here on earth to kill time, every man carries a wound and needs healing, masculinity, father figure and the search for eve. We live for a battle to fight, a beauty to rescue and an adventure to live. (Through Jesus Christ our Lord).
Robert

======= Dee:

I love Caleb as well..I think about how Isaac spoke of his death way before he ever left this earth, but not Caleb..he was as healthy and strong in his independence now as he was 40 + years ago! That is amazing..
I love that the Lord is always ready to hear our prayers..not like the evil judge but way cooler and chill with our requests, in fact he loves our prayers to Him.
Proverbs..the poor try to act rich, and rich try to be poor..I have seen some rich people really chill and act like pauper and like they don’t have a dime to their name. The poor not sure how they can act rich physically, maybe mentally, or emotionally ..not sure..just be yourself! Much better.
Dee

======= Allison:

Hi! Today is my first time here and first time reading The One Year Bible (my sister in Christ mailed it and I just received it today)!
Luke 17:8 stood out (about the 10 healed lepers)
“Was no one found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?”
How often do people take for granted blessings they have? Who recognizes they are a gift from God? The only one who returned was the foreigner. It reminds me of people in the western culture (many Americans) who take for granted things like running water, heat, homes with garages or basements…not to mention all the other gazillion materialistic things we have). Sometimes it takes someone who doesn’t have these things to point out what is taken from granted.
At 8, I lived in a woman’s shelter with my mom and brother and we shared an area with 2 other women with children. Each woman with her kids had a bedroom.
I remember not having much food (just what was donated). I remember a used toy for Christmas. I know this experience taught me not to take things for granted.
(God indeed uses all things for a greater purpose)! 
V20-21 stood out: “The kingdom of God is not coming in ways that can be observed, nor will they say, ‘Look, here it is!’ or ‘There!’ for behold, the kingdom of God is in the midst of you.”
When my sister in Christ (who I have never met personally, but study with online) sent me this book, I felt so profoundly blessed. She had a surprise tucked inside and I was even more blessed. The little acts of kindness we bestow on one another showing God’s love IS the kingdom of God among us, right here, right now–in the midst of us. So beautiful. I’m forever grateful.
I underlined Luke 17 v33 Whoever seeks to preserve his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life will keep it.
There is FAR more beyond this life in the flesh than we realize; most will never experience it, but some of us are catching glimpses of this other life. I pray I never forget to hold loosely to this life because this isn’t all there is. Kind of goes straight into Psalm 84:1-2 How lovely is your dwelling place, O Lord of hosts! 2 My soul longs, yes, faints for the courts of the Lord; my heart and flesh sing for joy to the living God. …v10 For a DAY in your courts is better than a thousand elsewhere. I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of wickedness. …v12 O Lord of hosts, blessed us the one who trusts in you! 
Allison

===== Rob:

mike, i love the stuff about vultures – it seems to me we have a choice, to be vultures waiting uselessly for the end of the world, or visionaries using the time that is left to us well, after all, we have enough of the kingdom inside us to be getting on with. 
Rob

======= Ramona:

Rob,
Thank you for your comments they have ignited my imagination. Hmm, I see folks with their binoculars surveying the horizon looking for signs of the end of the age, with little vulture winds flapping at their sides and their tongues hanging out of their little hooked beaked heads.
Vultures eat dead things so if the end-of-the-age watchers are compared to vultures then what they are waiting to feed on is death. Jesus said I he came to give abundant life not death (John 10:10).
Mike my pastor has said, “Anything built on a lie will collapse,” and :Half-the-truth is a whole lie.” We talk about little “white” lies which means it is just a little itsy bitsy one, so no one will get hurt, or will they?
If we are truthful with ourselves, we lie because we are afraid. And if we lie to “protect” others from the wrath of others (Hitler, etc; even the crazy boss), are we really protecting others, or are we protecting ourselves because we are unwilling to pay the cost of doing the right thing? Another Note: No one is innocent, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, but the gift of God is everlasting life (Romans 6:23). Time to receive the “gift,” if you already haven’t and move from death to life.
Grace and peace,
Ramona

======= John:

Proverbs 13:5
The first three verses have to do with contrasting hearing and speaking, the fourth contrasts the soul. Verses 5 and 6 have to do with the character of the righteous and the effect of righteousness.
Keil & Delitzsch translate verse 5:
“A deceitful thing the righteous hateth;
But the godless disgraceth and putteth to shame.”
Hebrew word for lying, deceitful is “sheqer”.
Sheqer means ‘not only the word in which the soul (verse 4) reveals itself, but the inner principles or essence (of one) which comes forth to be viewed.’ “The righteous hateth all that bears in it the character of a falsehood.” – Keil & Delitzsch
The second part is not explicit, but to be consistent in the idea of contrasts. ‘The godless LOVE disgracing and putting to shame.’
[Back to “hating lying”]
As imputed righteous but still being sinners – we should hate that character of deceit in ourselves as much as in others (when evidenced).
So as much as the focus has been on individual lies, I believe the point of emphasis is on hating the inner nature that nurtures and allows these lies (acts of deceit) to come out. That goes to the character of a righteous “man”.
Is it O.K. to lie? No. When those lies occurred that poster(s) referenced; they were wrong. But God uses all things to his glory and greater purpose – even wrongful acts.
John

======= Vance:

What God commands and does through his servant Joshua in Joshua chapter 11, and what God reveals through Jesus in Luke 17 may seem completely contradictory to one another.
On a superficial level, not willing to study and seek the deeper heart of one God who deeply loves mankind, Joshua 11 and Luke 17 could be seen as contradicting one another.
After all, merely from the view of the limited human mind, God’s wrath can seem to contradict God’s love. And theologians have wrestled how to put the two together.
Yet…I do not believe it has to be that hard as long as we let Scripture interpret Scripture.
We must let God interpret Himself, and we must let Jesus speak for Himself– and then listen. We must suspend so-called “superior 21st century understanding” and really listen.
Look at the “apparent contradictions” here. Of course, I do not believe in contradictions in Scripture… just the opportunity to study and pray and learn more about God.
Joshua 11 (NKJV)
9
So Joshua did to them as the LORD had told him: he hamstrung their horses and burned their chariots with fire.
11
And they struck all the people who were in it with the edge of the sword, utterly destroying them. There was none left breathing. Then he burned Hazor with fire.
12
So all the cities of those kings, and all their kings, Joshua took and struck with the edge of the sword. He utterly destroyed them, as Moses the servant of the LORD had commanded.
15
As the LORD had commanded Moses his servant, so Moses commanded Joshua, and so Joshua did. He left nothing undone of all that the LORD had commanded Moses.
Luke 17 (NKJV)
11
Now it happened as He went to Jerusalem that He passed through the midst of Samaria and Galilee.
12
Then as He entered a certain village, there met Him ten men who were lepers, who stood afar off. 13
And they lifted up their voices and said, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!”
14
So when He saw them, He said to them, “Go, show yourselves to the priests.” And so it was that as they went, they were cleansed.
DOES THE GENTLE, HEALING, LOVING JESUS CONTRADICT THE “SO CALLED ANGRY GOD OF THE OT”?
Read further in Luke 17, and you will see there is more agreement than noticed at first glance.
Luke 17 (NKJV)
21
nor will they say, ‘See here!’ or ‘See there!’ For indeed, the kingdom of God is within you.”
26
And as it was in the days of Noah, so it will be also in the days of the Son of Man:
27
They ate, they drank, they married wives, they were given in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark, and the flood came and destroyed them all.
29
but on the day that Lot went out of Sodom it rained fire and brimstone from heaven and destroyed them all.
30
Even so will it be in the day when the Son of Man is revealed.
32
Remember Lot’s wife.
33
Whoever seeks to save his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life will preserve it.
37
…He said to them, “Wherever the body is, there the eagles will be gathered together.”
NOTE:
Note verse 20 of Luke 17: Even so will it be in the day when the Son of Man is revealed.
JUDGMENT WILL COME BY JESUS HIMSELF WHEN HE COMES THE SECOND TIME. This age of wonderful grace and mercy DOES NOT NEGATE THAT FACT.
What is the challenge of Jesus to me and you, and to all generations?
==>
BE TOTALLY COMMITTED TO GOD’S WILL AND TRUTH, AND TO THE LORD JESUS.
==>
DO NOT DWELL ON THE PAST.
Jesus’ command in Luke 17 is very short and somber, meant to provoke thought:
32
Remember Lot’s wife.
~~~
WHAT IS THE MESSAGE? In every age, God is wonderfully merciful, and has ALWAYS been so. Yet… if people persistently and consistently harden their hearts over many centuries, time will run out.
Certainly, when each one dies, then time runs out for that one.
~~~
Thus, God’s command to Joshua now begins to take on a different interpretation: God is not “the big bully just waiting and eager to crush you and I.”
NO… God is very patient and longsuffering, and merciful. He will always give anyone a chance to change and receive love instead of judgment.
YET… there must be judgment of sin or else evil could not deserve to be called evil and goodness could not be good.
There must be a separation between the two. There must be judgment of wrongdoing, and there must be rewarding of right.
Keep in mind God’s promise to Abraham in Genesis 15 (NKJV):
15
Now as for you [Abram], you shall go to your fathers in peace; you shall be buried at a good old age.
16
But in the fourth generation they shall return here, for the iniquity of the Amorites is not yet complete.
DID YOU CATCH THAT? God will wait FOUR GENERATIONS until judgment comes.
That gives PLENTY of chances for a people group, a nation, a family, and an individual to repent and receive mercy.
~~~
THINK ABOUT THIS: How many people repented and received mercy, and then physically moved away from the sin and iniquity of the Amorites?
We do not see that part. Yet, because God is not willing that any should perish, I am certain that God was always calling people to repent and receive mercy… and that there must have been some, or even one, who responded.
Vance

Joshua 9:3-10:43 + Luke 16:19-17:10 + Psalm 83:1-18 + Proverbs 13:4
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Old Testament – As we read about the Gibeonites deception today, Joshua chapter 9 verses 14 & 15 teach a valuable lesson for each of us: “So the Israelite leaders examined their bread, but they did not consult the LORD. Then Joshua went ahead and signed a peace treaty with them, and the leaders of Israel ratified their agreement with a binding oath.”  They did not consult the Lord – and thus signed a binding oath based on a deception.  How about you in your life today?  How often do you consult God on major decisions in your life?  Even minor decisions?  I know that I don’t do this enough.  I do know that more and more I have found myself praying “thy will – not mine – be done” when major decisions are before me.  I am seeking God’s will and guidance in my life.  But, I’m not sure that I’m really consulting God all that often.  And I’m afraid when I don’t I can rush into quick & bad decisions…  I pray each of us will consult God with all of our plans & decisions in our lives – be they major or minor.  Bible.org’s commentary on our Joshua chapter 9 readings today titled “The Peril of Walking by Sight” is at this link.

Today in Joshua chapter 10 we read about the day the sun stood still!  Have you ever received the email about this chapter titled “NASA and the Bible?” – basically the email goes into how a man from NASA proved that the sun stood still.  I have received this email a bunch of times over the past 5 years or so.  I have read many commentaries on this chapter and do believe that a miracle took place, as we read in verse 13: “So the sun and moon stood still until the Israelites had defeated their enemies. Is this event not recorded in The Book of Jashar?  The sun stopped in the middle of the sky, and it did not set as on a normal day.”  Do you believe this miracle took place?  Do you believe in miracles?  Here’s a great stained glass image below from Duke University Chapel with Joshua and the son and the moon:

Bible.org’s commentary on our Joshua chapter 10 readings today is at this link.

New Testament – Today in Luke chapter 16 we read about the rich man and Lazarus.  I have always found verse 31 to be such a great reflection on what it means to have having a soft heart and a strong faith – “”But Abraham said, `If they won’t listen to Moses and the prophets, they won’t listen even if someone rises from the dead.’ “” Basically, Abraham is saying that people whose hearts are hardened to faith will not even believe it if a dead man returns to them and tells them to repent.  They still won’t repent even with this miracle.  And I believe this is true.  Let us pray that our hearts are soft and open to faith and that we can share the Good News of Jesus with others in our life whose hearts may be becoming more and more hardened with each passing day…

Bible.org’s commentary on our Luke Chapter 16 readings today titled “The Rich Man and Lazarus” is at this link and commentary titled “Death: The Door to Eternity” is at this link.

Wow.  I love Luke 17 verse 10 – “In the same way, when you obey me you should say, `We are not worthy of praise. We are servants who have simply done our duty.'”  I wonder if sometimes we do good works for Jesus expecting some praise or return on our works?   This is obviously not a good motive.  We should simply be obedient to Jesus and not expect praise for our obedience – from Jesus or from others.  It is simply a blessing for us to be called to Jesus’ service.  That is more than enough.

Bible.org’s commentary on our Luke chapter 7 readings today titled “Taking Sin Seriously” is at this link.

Psalms – Ever feel like the Psalmist in Psalm 83 verse 1 – “O God, don’t sit idly by, silent and inactive!”  I think the beauty of the Psalms is seeing some of our human emotions expressed so well.  Considering this verse – I don’t think that God is ever sitting idly by, silent or inactive.  I believe God is a Living God who is always with us.  But, perhaps sometimes God’s perceived silence in our lives is for a purpose that we may not fully understand now, but will later.  If God seems very “silent” to you now, I would encourage you to pray to God – and really listen in your prayers – don’t just speak.   I believe you’ll soon hear Him…

Proverbs chapter 13 verse 4 is brilliant – “Lazy people want much but get little, but those who work hard will prosper and be satisfied.”  Hard work pays off.  It really does.  I do thank God for the blessing of work in my life.  I pray you do to.  And I do thank him for occasional vacation days too!  🙂  But – overall – I honestly cannot imagine a life of just “vacation.”  It would be a bit of a hell for me personally….   I do love and appreciate the opportunity to work!

Worship Video:  Today’s readings remind me of Francesca Battistelli’s song, “Write your Story:”

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

Has God written His story on your heart? Click here for your story!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on a verse of Scripture today: “Lazy people want much but get little, but those who work hard will prosper.” Proverbs 13:4 NLT

Prayer Point: Pray that you are a hard worker for the Lord, who prospers in your work. Pray that you are not lazy, wanting much but getting little.

Comments from You & Questions of the Day:  Do you agree with today’s Proverb that hard work brings prosperity and satisfaction?  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:

Joshua 9:3-10:43
Israel begins to embark on that slippery slope of compromise as they continue their “walk” with God. They seem to be aiming for God’s Permissive Will instead of His Perfect Will. It doesn’t take much to go off on a tangent. Start out being just one-half of a degree off the “mark” and by the time the week is out you will find yourself way off the target, let alone the bulls-eye. They began to walk by sight, sense and circumstance instead of by faith, Spirit and the Word. Not learning the lesson from the Ai disaster, they failed to seek God’s insight before they made covenant with people of Gibeon.
Israel was warned by God to completely remove all the people of the land, ” ‘But if you do not drive out the inhabitants of the land, those you allow to remain will become barbs in your eyes and thorns in your sides. They will give you trouble in the land where you will live. (Num 33:55)
We are warned to put away evil but we convince ourselves that certain evil we can keep because, “Well it ain’t that bad. Ya know it kind of looks like something we shouldn’t be doing but it isn’t really because it look. See it’s all dried up and moldy, this sin ain’t dangerous.” I wonder if this is somewhat like the Parable Jesus told that states while men slept (emphesis on the word slept), the enemy sowed tares amongst the wheat? Cleary Joshua and the leaders were sleeping when they failed to 1) consult God, 2) made their decision about the Gibeonites based only on the information given to them by the Gibeonites, and 3) failed to acknowledge again that it was God who gave them their victory and not their own strength and military brilliance. So too it is with us, it is all about God and nothing about us.
Luke 16:19-17
29 “But Abraham said, `Moses and the prophets have warned them. Your brothers can read their writings anytime they want to.’
30 “The rich man replied, `No, Father Abraham! But if someone is sent to them from the dead, then they will turn from their sins.’
31 “But Abraham said, `If they won’t listen to Moses and the prophets, they won’t listen even if someone rises from the dead.’ ”
All of us probably can be divided into two groups, a Lazarus group and a rich man group. We either is or we ain’t going to be at one of two locations when we die, and the choice is ours to decide where we will go.
I’m not so sure that it is hardness of heart that stops us from hearing the Words of Truth. I think it can be that we have heard the Words of Truth and ignored them for a long time causing our hearts to become hard, like the sun constant rays backing soft soil into hard dry clay.
Several years ago a passage from the Book of Job, spoken by Job, caught my attention because I believe it speaks of our ability to know truth when we hear it spoken,
“Is it not the task of the ear to discriminate between [wise and unwise] words, just as the mouth distinguishes [between desirable and undesirable] food?” (Job 12:11 AMP). In the first chapter of Romans, Paul writes in several places about “exchanging the truth for a lie.” (Rom 1:25) In order to exchange something one must have possession of it in order to participate in a swap. The Rich Man thought that Lazarus’ coming back from the dead would convince his brothers. Jesus said no it wouldn’t because faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God not seeing the things of God, or miracles. The Rich Man and and his brothers heard the truth, they simply chose to ignore it.
Grace and peace,
Ramona

======= Anka:

“14 The men of Israel sampled their provisions but did not inquire of the LORD”…The Israelites grumbled against Joshua for not making the right decision(ie asking God 1st)…God says nothing…still goes ahead with Israel and fights for them…Even leaders get it wrong sometimes…it’s good God also looks at our hearts…knows when we go wrong not because we’re rebelling but because we just didn’t know any better….
Thank God for leaders,authority and discipline…we really need that in our lives especially when we forget the “love one another bit”…God bless you all and happy Easter to everyone who’s celebrating Easter this weekend…the greek orthodox church celebrates it next weekend so most of the former communist countries are still a week away from Easter:))I’m glad we can all celebrate Christ daily by encouraging (and admonishing one another)in love so we may all be useful members working together for the glory of God.I have to say I am really awed at the fact that on this blog we can share and grow…so many different people and cultures all coming together to a feast (feeding on the word)…It sure will be great to meet up in Heaven:))…God REALLY REALLY bless you all..and have a wonderful week.
Anka

======= Johnnie:

Just last night my wife and I were talking at dinner and I relayed to her how I thought we needed to be like Joshua… and have a mission in mind… We are not to be sitting idly by watching the world and satan take souls to damnation… We are to be in the battle… On GODs team… doing the work of the LORD… Rescuing souls… Introducing them to our Passover Lamb… The King of Glory!… Who is this King of Glory! The LORD strong and Mighty! JESUS is HIS name!
Glory… have a Blessed First Fruits, this weekend…
Johnnie

======== Rosemary:

Dear Mike,
I have been disabled since I was 22, and I simply despise it. I had a stroke, so I know there must be a reason for it, but I cannot sit around and do nothing!
I may not be getting paid for the work which I do now, but I LOVE it! I am writing everyday. I am involved. I am reading Pakistani papers, Chinese papers, ME papers, Jerusalem papers, European papers, South American papers, and African papers.
Much of the news we receive is deceptive and false. I am getting off the point, aren’t I? lol.
Before the internet, I was laying around waiting to die. I had no hope of ever contributing, and I was devastated.
Hard work, whether voluntary or paid, is very good for the soul.
Rosemary

======= Gina:

Hmmm…probably not a coincidence that at my bible study tonight we all made a list of those people who are in our lives, that are not saved, that we are going to begin ernestly praying for as a group. Then the question coming out of the the Luke reading for today is about us praying for God to soften our hearts towards those who need to hear the Gospel…I love it when God confirms like that!
We also talked about the sovereignty of God…and I think that goes right along with the Psalm reading…God is always working…even though we may not “feel” or experience Him sometimes, he does not just “sit idly, silent and inactive” – He is always doing something in our lives…He is in complete control…always!
Gina

======= Angelo:

What’s sad is that people do not realize that God speaks to us through His Word. I mean 2 Timothy 3:16 tells us that “all Scripture is God breathed.” People so often want God to actually speak to them. I wouldnt want to, because the Israelites were so frightened by His voice that they wanted God to just talk to Moses (Exodus 20:18-19 All the people heard the thunder and saw the lightning. They heard the blast of the ram’s horn and saw the mountain covered with smoke. So they shook with fear and stood at a distance. Then they said to Moses, “You speak to us, and we’ll listen. But don’t let God speak to us, or we’ll die!”) But God speaks to us through His Holy Word; its called the Word of God aka God’s Word. Dont get me wrong, sometimes God does respond to us verbally; I guess you could say that He speaks to our souls. But the Holy Bible is always there and it contains all the answers to any problem/question/request that we might have.
Angelo

======= Jim:

Dear Angelo,
“People so often want God to actually speak to them. I wouldnt want to”
The book of Acts contains the stories of ten conversions (Acts 2:22-41=Jews from Pentecost, 8:5-13=Samaritans, 8:26-40=Ethiopian eunuch, 9:1-19 and 22:3-16=Saul, 10:34-48=Gentiles, 16:13-15=Lydia, 16:16-34=Jailer, 17:22-34=Athenians with Dionysius and Damaris, 18:7-8= Crispus and Corinthians, and 19:1-7=Ephesians). In these conversions, audible instructions from God, the Holy Sprit, or an angle were core to a genuine conversion process. For example, in Acts 8:26-29, the Holy Spirit instructs Philip to go to the Gaza Road and join the chariot of the Ethiopian eunuch. Philip did that and won the eunuch to Christ. In Acts 9:10, Ananias has a vision and a conversation with God in which he receives explicit instructions from God about the conversion of Saul of Tarsus. In Acts 9:4, Jesus speaks to Paul (then Saul of Tarsus) from a cloud after knocking him off his horse, blinding him, and says, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?” In Acts 10:11, Peter falls into a trance and has a vision in which the Holy Spirit gives him explicit instructions relating to the preaching of the Gospel to the Gentile Cornelius. In Acts 10:22, the Gentile nonbeliever Cornelius is directed by an angel to give an audience to Peter. In Acts 12:7, an angel speaks to Peter in order to rescue him by leading him out of jail. In Acts 13:2-4, the Holy Spirit speaks with clear instructions for Paul and Barnabas’ first missionary journey. In Acts 16:6, Paul is forbidden by the Holy Spirit to speak the Word in Asia. In Acts 16:10, Paul has a night vision of the Philippian jailer beckoning him. Therefore, the next day he goes to Macedonia and wins the jailer to Christ. In Acts 18:9, The Lord speaks to Paul in another night vision at Corinth, encouraging him not to be afraid but go ahead and preach the Gospel with boldness. In Acts 22:16, Jesus appears to Paul in a trance while Paul is praying and has a detailed conversation with Paul, instructing him to leave Jerusalem to avoid capture, which Paul doesn’t do and then gets captured. In Acts 23:11, Jesus appears at Paul’s side to encourage him and tells him he will witness in Rome just as he has in Jerusalem. Paul, Peter, Philip, Annanias, and even Cornelius all had clear and ubiquitous communications from God (Cornelius and Saul even as non-believers). The Spirit did not only speak to Philip, but also “beamed” him away from the Gaza Road. The New and Old Testaments often record thunderous spiritual voices that made it unquestionable that truly godly works were being done. Do your conversations with God compare well with these examples in Acts? Hebrews 3:7-9 reads, “As the Holy Spirit and Scripture says, ‘If you hear God speak today, don’t be stubborn. Don’t be stubborn like those who rebelled and tested me in the desert.’” Verses 9 and 10 add, God speaks, but they can no more hear Him than can a man lying in the gutter in a drunken stupor. The writer of Hebrews understood we have access to the very voice of the living God. To quote Francois Fenelon, “How rare it is to find a soul quiet enough to hear God speak.”
Being called untalented, unintelligent, unattractive, unfaithful, or unpleasant seems naturally far more offensive to us than hearing we are unsure of our beliefs, unclear of our goals, disorganized in our efforts, uncertain of where we would stand, are without a long range plan, or incorrect in our world view. Those things we hold most personal are only those things we had no control over. We can read self-help books, have the fat vacuumed out and the bones broken and reshaped, memorize great quotes, do good deeds, and work to be more agreeable, yet still know that underneath it is not the “us” that God intended. Regrettably, it’s far easier to impact our fragile self-esteem by calling us stupid, ugly, and mean than by pointing out we have failed to develop and verify a Holy mission, lack a valid 5-year plan to achieve such a vision, and have surely failed to perform miracles greater than Christ (as per John 14:12). Time to change?
Jim

======= Jenny:

Wow, the readings in Joshua concerning how they did not consult the Lord are powerful. Its a great reminder to consult God in everything! Oh course I believe the sun stood still, I believe everything in the Bible and its just one of God’s many miracles! Some of these things we find difficult to rationalize, we must just accept by faith, a child-like faith. I grew up in sunday school and I tons of kids books on different stories/miracles of the Bible, i remember as a kid, i just believed it. I had faith without question. We need to hold on to that child-like faith in the things of God.
The rich man and Lazarus is always a powerful reading. I read a bulletin recently, it was a letter from an atheist. He said basically he couldnt believe in God, heaven, or hell because if Christians, knowing that people go to hell every day, they would be much more fervent. they’d run up and down the streets screaming the news. But since many dont do this, he could not believe….something like that. at first i felt guilty, but God reminded me of the rich man/Lazarus…If ppl do not believe all God has shown man, wouldnt believe a man arising from the dead, they wouldnt believe Christians running up and down the streets screaming. Some ppl do, but they are written off by many as crazy, fanatically Jesus freaks. If they rejected Jesus Christ Himself, screaming Christians wont be listened to. So after thinking this over, I realized satan is an accuser of the brethren. This atheist was copping out that he couldnt believe bcos of Christians…with all the efforts of missionaries, all the ppl who have died for their faith.
Its a very poor excuse on his part!
Regarding Luke 17:1-4 my study Bible says: ‘It is expected that those in the world will cause Christians to be offended, stumble, and sin, and they will be judged for it. But it should not be that fellow believers lead others into sin directly and indirectly. One would be better dead.’
…whoa, heavy!
Luke v 10 is very good! More heavy stuff.
Proverbs is referring to the soul as much as the physical, but the KJV is a direct translation and it says soul. there are ppl who say they want to know God, but are just lazy and dont truly seek God. the bible says if you seek God with ALL your heart you will find Him. not..if u casually seek Him. Many believers are spiritually lazy, i sure can be, we want wisdom and God’s love n peace and blessings in our lives and we want to be used by Him, but thats it…we want.
We need to be diligent. We need to be in the word everyday. as much as is possible, we need to attend church, fellowship with believers, pray without ceasing. Be diligent in seeking God. If we dont have this and we find it hard to get into, PRAY for a hunger and thirst for Him. You’ll be AMAZED at the change in your life wen your heart truly pursues the things of God!
Jenny

======= Luch:

Thanks for posting the stained glass painting of joshua, the sun and moon, from Duke University chapel. Nice visual to reinforce the story.
Luch

======= Skip:

This is the first time I’m reading the book of Joshua and although I’m enjoying the book I’m having a problem with all of the fighting and violence. My problem is trying to understand how a God that I’ve been taught is a God of love would order Joshua and his army to not only kill the opposing army but to also kill all the women and children.
It’s really bothering me. Why kill the women, but more so, why kill the children?
Yours in Christ
Skip

======= Andrew:

It was incredible to read through your words on Joshua today. I too am working my way through the bible and documenting what God is saying to me through his word. I loved your comments on coming before God when making big decisions to allow him to work his plan in our lives. Thank you and keep up the Blog, look forward to reading more.
Andrew

======= Elizabeth:

Hello All,
Ramona, thanks for sharing your thoughts today…good stuff to dwell upon. I am fascinated by the way that people so often believe what they wish to believe. Outward circumstances and the deceitfulness of our own hearts lead us to become overly (or underly) confident.
I can relate to Joshua neglecting to consult the Lord. His initial impulse is to get things done, trusting in his own ability to size up whatever lies in front of him. This is SO like me! I want to get going and tackle the problem…
All the more reason for me to dwell upon this insight from Bible.org’s commentary:
“Our need is to always commit our way, our objectives, our pursuits, and our responsibilities to the Lord for not only His will and wisdom, but for His enablement.” -Keathley
Whatever am I thinking to step out without His leadership and enablement? I also found this familiar well-worn verse referenced there:
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.” -Proverbs 3:5
It’s hard for me to even hear this verse because I THINK I know it. But do I LIVE it??? How often I am guilty of constructing my own understanding from scratch! Then, I might “lean on” or check in with the Lord to approve the deal. This is all so very backwards! Lord, forgive me for putting you at the end of the process, and for believing the lie that my own understanding and abilities are sufficient.
Elizabeth

======= Raeann:

How is everyone doing? I am Sorry to have been gone for so long, my internet crashed and the computer technician just left a few minutes ago. When I moved, I had NO computer for a week, I got it back then the internet crashed the VERY next day and I had to wait another FOUR days before someone could come out here to fix it again. Hopefully I will be able to be on the blog once again on a daily basis,
Raean

======= Dee:

The first verse that stood out to me was in Joshua 9:14-in my amplified version bible: So the [Israelite] men partook of their food and did not consult the Lord. When we lose sight of the wisdom that comes only from God and go about on our own defenses and strength, we come up empty handed and get the short end of the stick. (I’m from the South, excuse my word usages), Here the men have come across some apparent strangers and from the beginning in verse 7-they first were speculative asking the strangers, “Perhaps you live among us; how then can we make a covenant with you?” I feel like the Lord gives us hunches, or those umphs’ from the Holy Ghost, to use as dissernment to tell good and evil, and when we don’t step away and think about a situation and become impulsive it sets a trap for the enemy to catch us off guard and we fall!
This is also a good way of showing that God rewards the diligent and that vingence is of the Lord, and every “dog has his day”. Because the foreigners (neighbors) lied to Joshua and the leaders of the congregation, they were subjected to become slaves for the rest of their lives and be hewers of wood and drawers of water for all the assembly. I feel like this is a lesson for us to learn and live by. We can do our tricks and act dishonorable for a season but whatsoever you reap that is which you will sow!! Gal 6:7, God cannot be mocked. Always remember that..
I think it is awesome and sometimes overlooked how powerful Joshua, son of Nun was with God’s power working on his behalf, in 10;12, He spoke to the sun, said to be silent and still, and the moon to do the same, until vengeance was taken over the enemies. In verse 14, There was no day like it before or since, when the Lord heeded the voice of a man. For the Lord fought for Israel. May we be like Joshua, where a mere human with human strengths and weaknesses spoke to the creation and commanded to be still, only written once more in the Bible, and that was with the voice of Jesus, Matthew 8:27, Mark 4:41, Luke 8:22-25, Jesus was no ordinary man, He Was God!!
God will also show you things and give you wisdom and insight without anyone even speaking a word: Verse 17: And it was told Joshua, The five kings are hidden in the cave at Makkedah. It didn’t say that a mere human spoke these words, it said “it” was told Joshua, who was the “it”..perhaps the great I AM..
when you follow God you will have peace.. verse 10:21, after the people returned to the camp with Joshua at Makkedah, they had peace.
verse 24, Joshue through the wisdom of God said, Fear not nor be dismayed; be strong and of good courage..these verses are in the Bible several times, 2 Chron 20:17, Gen 26:24, Deut 31:6, 2 Chro 32:7, and several more..God is telling us, Fear not, nor be Dismayed!!
From the words of Joyce Meyer, Confront fear in prayer and take whatever actions God leads you to take..
in verse 26, Joshua smote and slew the five kings and hung them on a tree. it reminds me of the verses in Galatians 3:10-14, “For it is written, “Cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree” comes from Deuteronomy 21:22:23(NASB).
A flashback from Deut. 20:16 come to life in Joshua 10:40..”But in the cities of these people which the Lord your God gives you for an inheritance, you shall save alive nothing that breathes.”
“So Joshua smote all land, the hill country..He left nothing remaining, utterly destroyed all that breathed, as Lord, the God of Israel commanded..”
Remember to keep your joy, The Joy of the Lord is Our Strength!! Nehemiah 8:10,, be of good courage and joy like Joshua!!
Luke 16:19-17:10, The Rich Man and Lazarus..the verses that I got alot out of were 16:25 for one, amplified version, “But Abraham said, Child, remember that you in your lifetime full received [what is due you in] comforts and delights, and Lazarus in like manner the discomforts and distresses; but now he is comforted here and you are in anguish. The first thing I noted is, that this mere man, was supposed to be so important and had so much richs on earth, but is nameless in the kingdom, the Father of the multitudes, Abraham, only called him Child, he acknoledged with a capital C, that he indeed come from the Father, because our Father created everything live creature, man, woman, child, animal, from the beginning of creation, but he didn’t grow up in the things of God, only stayed as but of a Child, a man without a name, because he only thought to have and gain what his flesh wanted on earth and neglect the things of God, while Lazarus, was named by his Covenent name, because he was a Child of God, through and through and I see the contrast of the two, The Rich Man here today gone tomorrow, has eternity in distress, dis-ease, dis-comfort..the same that Lazarus suffered for a time that he had on this short lived earth, and now he has, Ease, Comfort, Joy, Peace..for eternity!! It sure makes me think and take a step back and remember that we have to look outside of our self and see the hurting, dying, desperate world and challenge ourselves, better yet, Do not Fear, Do not be dismayed, Be of good courage, and fight the good fight and keep our faith, win souls at any cost!! We are fighting in the name of the Lord!!
Ps 83:3, co-incides with Joshua 9/10 today where the neighbors-enemies of the Lord, “They lay crafty schemes against Your people and consult together against Your hidden and precious ones.”, verse 5, against You, they make a covenant.. and end result, verse 16 of Psalm 83: “Fill their faces with shame, that they may seek, inquire for, and insistently require Your name, O Lord.”
Proverbs 13:4 A person who works at the labor of his hand will be diligently supplied and the lazy bones person will get nothing..!! That speaks to me today..if I want my house clean I have to put effort into it and work to produce an end result! Faith without works is dead!!James 2:17
Dee

======= Marabel:

In Joshua today we read: On the day the LORD gave the Amorites over to Israel, Joshua said to the LORD in the presence of Israel:
“Sun, stand still over Gibeon,
and you, moon, over the Valley of Aijalon.”
13 So the sun stood still,
and the moon stopped,
till the nation avenged itself on[c] its enemies,
NASA had to figure out this problem of missing this day on the calendar by consulting Harold Hill, scientist and biblical scholar. More information on this can be found in Harold Hill’s book, How To Live Like a King’s Kid.
Marabel

======= Molly:

About Luke 17:10 and expecting praise from our good works…. I would like to share a proverb:
Proverbs 27:21 (NIV)
21 The crucible for silver and the furnace for gold,
but man is tested by the praise he receives.
I believe God tests us over and over. We need to be careful we are doing everything for HIS glory and not our own.
Molly

======= Lily:

I am still disturbed of the killing of the inhabitants by the Israelites for them to inherit the promised land. I understand that we have to face the consequences of our actions. The inhabitants of the promised land worshipped other gods and not the God. For that I suppose they have to perish. In like manner we will perish if we do not repent of our sins.
Lily

======= Debbie:

Your comments on the Psalms today made me think of a quote and saw on FB today:
“When you are going through a difficulty and wonder where God is, remember the teacher is always silent during a test.”
Debbie

======= Bob:

Joshua 10: 12-13: This concept of the earth standing still is an interesting Bible/Science topic that if you have time makes for interesting contemplation. Again we are called into a faith question that God always puts in front of us. Quote from Snoops.com.
“Authenticity matters little, though: our willingness to accept legends depends far more upon their expression of concepts we want to believe than upon their plausibility. If the sun once really did stand still for a day, the best evidence we’d have for proving it would be the accounts of people who saw it happen. That is what the Bible is said to offer. Some people accept that as sufficient proof, and others don’t.”
Read more at http://www.snopes.com/religion/lostday.asp#59WBmvOdaeW4Sk8I.99
Bob

======= Chris:

Bob,
I thought of that concept as I read it. Then I thought of many other instances in Scripture that seemed difficult to grasp. And I was encouraged when Jesus spoke of the faith of a mustard seed, because that is really what it is about, isn’t it? Faith. If we consider the enormity of God even putting this world together, of Noah and his family when people didn’t even know what rain was, and building an ark for 120 days. Then the idea that people like Elijah never died, but simply was lifted up. And Jesus. That precious life-giving soul, Jesus, dying on that cross and being resurrected on the third day. Lots of things just must be taken on faith. Actually, it all does, because who would have even thought the internet could have existed just 30 years ago…I come from the time of portable typewriters. We didn’t have a spell check. So many things have occurred that didn’t seem possible.
I’m yammering. I just really believe we must be so prayerful about all we do, and I was reminded when Joshua and the elders made an agreement with the Gibeonites. We have the potential to do things that can cause us great harm, or may be able to solve many problems regarding health and food and warmth. I believe God is letting us fall on our own petard if we fail to consult him before we get ourselves into a big mess…and yes, I am talking “conspiracy theories” now…I think the more we mess with God’s laws in now allowing the land to rest, altering our food, and spraying the sky in an attempt to “play God” with geoengineering, may come back to bite us, and our failure to teach our children as Moses taught the Israelites before turning his leadership over to Joshua, will result in our own demise though it has been told to us through Daniel and John’s Revelations.
Chris

======= Robert:

Lying
I have made it a practice to skirt around lying point blank by simply not telling the whole truth. So before I say something I look at how I can say it in a way that is not false but doesn’t bring on hurt or convey conflict or even an obvious sin. It may not be an obvious black and white lie but said in a way one could even compare to a parable. (chuckle). Since this method tries to take into an account all the factors around the “lie” it may involve leaving out certain information or changing the mood or even delaying it for a better time and space. I guess we all handle lies in our own way but I know we all have them and isn’t it wonderful we can leave them at the cross at any time.
Robert

======= Dee:

Lying is a hard one. Um..we kind of do that when our kids are little..Santa, Easter bunny, tooth fairy..because tradition of man became kept for some sacred reason. Foolish really. But who are we really lying to? Ourself, God, who is getting hurt..kids when finding out..that is touchy. I pray the more we emmerse in the Word, more convicted we will be to be on fair and simple lane..not play fast and slick, but honor amd dignity, be of integrity. Love it. Thanks for the Word and encouragement Mike
Dee

======= Ramona:

Joshua 9:3-10:43
The writer of Ecclesiastes states that there is nothing new under the sun so being bamboozled is not a new to this century or decade and not even new to you or me. So, John’s advice is for the ages:
BELOVED, DO not put faith in every spirit, but prove (test) the spirits to discover whether they proceed from God; for many false prophets have gone forth into the world.(1 John 4:1 AMP).
What happened to Joshua and Israel, I believe should be studied so we don’t fall into the same trap. We get a tremendous victory, then we operate out of presumption, thinking that our next move, which hasn’t been directed by God, must be the one to make ‘cause we’re all that and a bag of chips, with a sneakers bar thrown in and a can of coke. When we find out we have been hoodwinked, because we haven’t discerned the situation, we get angry and the party who deceived us and we fail to realize that we became a willing player in our own deception. Those of us in leadership position must be careful because our choices and decisions will have to be served by those who we have charge over.
Yet, despite our missteps, despite walking out of God’s perfect will into His permissive will, God’s mercy and grace still flows to us. Because of a promise to one man, Abraham, God does not abandon His people even when they are wrong.
Grace and peace,
Ramona

Joshua 7:16-9:2 + Luke 16:1-18 + Psalm 82:1-8 + Proverbs 13:2-3
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Old Testament – In Joshua chapter 7 today we continue to read about Achan’s sin, which caused 36 Israelites to die in the first attack on the city of Ai.  I realize that the destruction of Achan and his family may be tough for us to read, but I think it’s important to remember Achan’s sin caused other Israelites to die.  I found Joshua’s words interesting in verse 19 as he spoke to Achan: “My son, give glory to the LORD, the God of Israel, by telling the truth.”  He has a fatherly tone here – and I like the thought of giving glory to God by telling the truth.

In chapter 8 verse 1 we read this today – “Then the LORD said to Joshua, “Do not be afraid or discouraged.”  This repeats what we heard God say to Joshua in chapter 1 verse 9 – “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.”  This makes sense that in the midst of the conquest of the Promised Land that this would need to be repeated often.  I’m wondering if we need to hear this in our lives today as well from God often – do not be afraid or discouraged.  It is so true.  With God in our lives we do not need to be afraid or discouraged!  I need to be reminded of this often…

Now that we are just past the Pentateuch in our readings – the first five books in the Old Testament – verses like 34 & 35 stand out to me as God’s covenant is renewed with the Israelites – “Joshua then read to them all the blessings and curses Moses had written in the Book of the Law. Every command Moses had ever given was read to the entire assembly, including the women and children and the foreigners who lived among the Israelites.”  After our recent readings about the Israelites victories at Jericho and Ai, I am not surprises by Joshua chapter 9 verse 2 at all….  – “These kings quickly combined their armies to fight against Joshua and the Israelites.”   Seems like a logical idea to try to band together.  We get some interesting tactics coming from the Gibeonites in tomorrow’s readings.  Stay tuned!  Below is nineteenth century French artist Gustave Dore’s take on today’s readings about Ai:

Bible.org’s commentary on Joshua chapter 7 is at this link and at this link.  Commentary on Joshua chapter 8 is at this link.

New Testament – The story of the shrewd manager in Luke chapter 16 today concludes with some powerful teachings from Jesus.   Verses 8 & 9 stand out to me today – “And it is true that the citizens of this world are more shrewd than the godly are. I tell you, use your worldly resources to benefit others and make friends. In this way, your generosity stores up a reward for you in heaven.”  I like that teaching – we should use our worldly resources to benefit others.  I’ve been thinking about this a bit more lately.  And I wondered what it would be like if I went through my days consciously trying to make other people happy.  I don’t think I’ve really ever done this over a sustained period.  Maybe I’ve glimpses of using my resources to benefit others.  To make them happy.  I want to do more of this…  How about you?  Are you consciously using your resources (time, treasure & talents) to make others happy in your life each day?

Verse 10 is also a strong teaching from Jesus today – “”Unless you are faithful in small matters, you won’t be faithful in large ones. If you cheat even a little, you won’t be honest with greater responsibilities.”  I think there was a very popular book out there a while back called “Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff.”  Well, it looks to me in this verse that God sweats the small stuff.  And you and I should sweat the small stuff.  We need to be faithful in small matters in our daily lives or else indeed we will not be faithful in large matters.  Will you join me in sweating the small stuff when it comes to matters of our integrity before God?

Bible.org’s commentary on our Luke chapter 16 readings today titled “Does Christ commend the crook or “The Sting?”” is at this link.

Psalms – I love Psalm 82 verses 3 & 4 – “”Give fair judgment to the poor and the orphan; uphold the rights of the oppressed and the destitute.  Rescue the poor and helpless; deliver them from the grasp of evil people.”  I realize these verses were spoken to Israel’s judges.  But, I think they can speak to you and I today as well.  Particularly, “rescue the poor and helpless” stands out to me today.  What are some ways you are rescuing the poor and helpless in your life today?  How are you delivering them from the grasp of evil people?   This actually reminds me of a couple of friends of mine who are so passionate about rescuing young girls from the sex slave industry in some Asian countries – I think Thailand is where they do most of their work.  Clearly, young girls that have to sell their bodies in this type of situation are under the grasp of evil people.  And I am so humbled by my friends’ work toward delivering girls from this grasp.  My friends are only able to do this really well because of their relationship with Jesus.  Jesus is the true rescuer – first of my friends and now through my friends to these young girls.  But, wow, it makes me wonder if I am truly allowing Jesus to rescue the poor and helpless through me?  How about you?

Proverbs – There is probably absolutely nothing I could or should add to Proverbs chapter 13 verse 3 🙂 – “Those who control their tongue will have a long life.”

Worship Video: Today’s readings in Luke reminded me of Zach Williams song “Less Like Me:”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fkYL1b7MCEw

Do you want to be less like you? Click here and be more like Jesus!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on a verse of Scripture today: “No servant can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money.” Luke 16:13 NIV

Prayer Point: Pray that you are serving God alone. Pray that you are not in love with or devoted to money.

Comments from You & Questions of the Day:  Do you agree with this Proverb above?  Are you able to control your tongue?  Or sometimes does your tongue control you?  Any advice on how someone can control their tongue?  Prayer, Grace, and the Holy Spirit are 3 antidotes that come to mind for me!  🙂  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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======= Ramona:

Joshua 7:16-9:2
In reading about Achan in the seventh chapter I’m struck by how much his plight illustrates the Words Jesus spoke in Matthew 16:26,
For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?
Achan became caught up in the “Lust of the eyes” and the deceitfulness of that sin elevated the value of gold in his eyesight above the worth of God who created and placed the gold in the earth. That deception bore such horrendous fruit that his entire family was wiped out because of his “little” sin. So too are our sins not hidden no matter how far “undercover” we go. What is done in the dark will be brought out to the light. (Luke 12:3)
Luke 16:1-18
In Geometry there is a theorem or proof, I forget which, that says, “The whole is equal to the sum of its parts.” We can study the whole of the Bible and miss the parts that make up the whole, or we can concentrate on the parts and miss the whole. It is my desire for each and everyone who enters this Blog’s portal to learn to walk in balance between the two views, the parts and the whole, also know as “The Big Picture.”
Stating this I will continue to explore the entire chapter from a perspective that first came to me one-year ago while reading this chapter. First I saw the entire sixteenth chapter as parts to a whole having the same theme, an overarching lesson with individual lessons within the whole.
I believe that verses one through fourteen, sixteen through eighteen, and nineteen through the end of the chapter are all speaking about the same thing, rightly handling the Word of God and valuing it over every earthly thing.
The rich man employed the “Shrewd Manager”, but who was this rich man. Understanding that Jesus used Parables to explain the Kingdom of God to those who had ears to hear, I have positioned this man in my mind as God. The manager, and those he represents, is a “shepherd” over a flock or flocks of “sheep.” Today we have ministers of the Gospel over small to to large mega churches and Para-churches. In those days there were the religious hierarchy stationed in Jerusalem governing the daily activities of Synagogues in the cities, towns and villages where there were at least ten practicing Jews, from Asia to Africa and Europe.
If God is the “rich man” then the possessions the manager handled would have to be the “rich man’s” Word, His most valuable property. The manager is said to have invited everyone who owed His master to come and discuss the situation after finding out he was to be fired. The religious leaders wanted to kill Jesus because they knew He was about to take their jobs from them. Jobs they were not doing according to the procedures the “rich man” had instituted. The manager’s invitation was not to a party but to a discussion to talk about what each owed to his employer and to play, “Let’s Make a Deal.” (That was an old TV game show. Forgive my dated reference).
What were these people dealing in, oil, olive oil to be precise and wheat. Now sometimes what something is, is what it really is, but I began thinking that this oil and wheat is a figurative representation. Olive oil represents the anointing oil that was poured out on the top of Aaron’s head flowing down onto his beard to the hem of his garment when he was consecrated into the priesthood. Also win the Olive grove, Gethsemane, which means olive press in Hebrew, where Jesus struggled under the burden of going to the cross so much that his sweat was like great drops of blood, so this “Oil” is precious.
It was about this “anointing” this precious oil that flowed from crushed olives that the debtors and the about to be fired manager bargained over. And the wheat, what does the wheat represent? Wheat is used to make bread, and bread represents the Word of God, the Manna that fell from heaven to feed the nation of Israel as they wondered in the desert for forty years. They sat down to discount the very source of life.
As I looked at this chapter in this perspective, verses eight through ten that had baffled me in the past began to become clearer in my understanding. If I don’t handle the small matters with integrity, the things of this world, then the greater responsibility of understanding and handling rightly, the Word of God, will always be out of my grasp.
In the entire chapter amongst the other great messages and parables are teachings on the value of the Word, the Law and the Prophets.
Psalm 82:1-8
After my lengthy discourse on Luke 16, I’m struck again by the similitude of the messages in two different books written by two different writes hundreds of years apart.
1God presides over heaven’s court; he pronounces judgment on the judges:
2″How long will you judges hand down unjust decisions? How long will you shower special favors on the wicked?
The judges can only had down just decisions if they use the just Laws given by a just God to Moses. Like the “Shrewd Manager” in Luke sixteen, they have mishandled the precious Word of God.
Proverbs 13:2-3
Our words create our worlds. Don’t like the world your living in, change your conversation.
2 Good people enjoy the positive results of their words, but those who are treacherous crave violence. 3 Those who control their tongue will have a long life; a quick retort can ruin everything.
Grace and peace,
Ramona

======= Shane:

Dude. Don’t mess with Joshua.
Shane

======= Peggy:

Joshua 8:1 Just jumped out to me today. I copied Chapter 1 verse 9 and sent it gave it to a a few people I know. What an encouragement to me and them. Wow here it is again today, “don’t be discouraged or afraid” God is so good He knows that we need to be reminded. I’m going to keep a copy close by and remind myself everytime I think I have to be afraid or upset about things, that He is always near. I sent a reminder to my friends and family too. Have a blessed day.
Peggy

======= Laura:

In regards to Mike’s question about pleasing others rather than ourselves. I understand your reasoning behind that concept and the idea that it is best to not be selfish, but on the other hand, you can get caught up in trying to be a people pleaser which can actually work against you. What I mean by that, is that I think it is best to strive for and to please God instead. When you try to think of ways to please others just to earn their love and friendship, you end up being very fustrated. I’ve learned that from personal experience.
For example, (this happened to me)do you remember when your elderly grandmother or aunt or someone you didn’t know very well tried to please you with toys that you would never play with, books etc..(not really knowing you and your tastes, likes and dislikes)when you were young, did you appreciate it? Your relative gave that gift out of love and went through the effort to mail and package and wrap the gift. I remember my very frugal grandmother who used recycled and wrinkled gift wrap or newspaper to wrap the gifts in. They were never expensive or anything I would use. At the time I did not appreciate them as a young child. Today I think of my grandma, who passed away 21 years ago with a very fond heart. I miss her dearly and remember her heart for giving the most and not what I received. I often ponder on that as I ring up customers on the cash regester, I’ll see a sweet elderly lady coming in to shop for her grandkids or greatgrand kids buying them things she can barely afford. Those kids probably don’t even thank her or appreciate what they get, because their parents spoil them with even more expensive gifts.
It wasn’t until I was an adult that I can look back and reflect on the heart of a giver and appreciate them. When I go out of my way to spend money on expensive gifts or do something to try to earn love and acceptance, the receiver seldom remembers the gifts given nor do they appreciate them or reciprocate always.
I think the best gift we can give is time with them and a sincere and loving heart which are intangible. Things that don’t cost money, but show that we really care. Loving God first helps us to love others. We are to love God first than others than ourselves and keep things in the right order.
Laura

======= Anka:

“an altar of uncut stones, on which no iron tool had been used”I kinda got stuck on this verse…iron tools as in man made maybe?I was just thinking about how God wants us to come to Him…we are spirit…God is spirit,He wants us to come in spirit and in truth,not in senses(man made)not in flesh.God is pretty tough on sin as we can see…I read through the posts on christian songs…the free will posts…I can’t help thinking,when we worship God…is it truly about Him…or is it about us…when we fight about certain issues..what do we stand to gain…God’s approval or the “I knew I was right satisfaction”…What God wants from us I think is what He’s given us…the fruits of the spirit make us worship God with our lives…not our works,our knowledge…The only way we can come to God is in spirit and in truth…not with our own nicely crafted altars..
I was just putting my thoughts on paper..May God’s light continue to guide us and keep us(me especially) focused on the battle ahead…
God bless you all
Anka

======= Shane:

We had a lecture in my Law and Religion class today on the rules of war as they pertain to religion. All the member countries, including the U.S., agree that you can’t destroy a church, mosque, synagogue, etc. unless they’re used for military purposes by the invaded nation.
Also, some people are off-limits, such as army chaplains (or religious ministers of the opposing army), people in hospitals, army doctors, etc.
As I listened to the lecture, I reflected on Joshua as a general–indeed God as a general (since He told Joshua what to do), and thought about how God had Joshua destroy everything in Jericho, and pretty much everything in Ai.
Should we conduct war the way Joshua did? Is it better to respect the religious beliefs and practices of our enemies?
Shane

======= John:

shane,
Tough question. “Scorched earth policy” as practiced by Sherman in Civil War has quite a few modern day proponets in the military brass.
The problems I see:
1) Joshua had God tell him explicitly what to do. If God had not told him to destroy everything, they might not have, and with what consequences to a budding nation that was supposed to be serving God?
2) So today? Is it in God’s will that a side should fight and destroy everything? Is that side being led by God? Is it a fledgling nation or does that even matter?
3) The result would probably be the same as Chapter 9 of Joshua starts off. Everyone is going to gather together to fight nation(s) in #2. In current situation in Middle East that is certainly the beginning of a total World War. Would the scorched earth proponet survive if it is not in God’s will against such a “host”.
If it happens – they had better pray they are in God’s will.
I am just throwing things out – I have no clue as to what the right policy is in today’s conflicts. One thing for sure – it is a lot easier to know when God is talking to you directly : )
John

======= Emily:

It is a mad world. It is one thing to chart Geneva conventions and feel righteous. It is other to face planes being flown into WTC (killing thousands instantly and unawares) and then see things happening like Friendly fires, Abu Gharaib and Guantanamo Bay.
It would be so humane if in wartimes civilian life is respected. But reality is sooo different. Think, Hiroshima and Nagasaki…
Emily

======= Jenny:

Yikes! The Joshua readings are gruesome and violent. It was hard to read. So many ppl murdered, stoned, hung..I know God is just so it happened according to His plan, but I dont like to read it, it makes me sad.
I was looking up some stuff in my study Bible concerning Luke and the shrewd servant.
Regarding vs 8:”For the sons of this world are more shrewd in their generation than the sons of light.” it said….MOst unbelievers are are wiser in the ways of the world than some believers are toward the things of God.
wow, thats sad! but its true, huh.
Proverbs is right on!: v. 3″ He who guards his mouth preserves his life, But he who opens wide his lips shall have destruction.” I really have to watch myself and I was happy today at work i was spoken to in a way which might normally make me respond in an incorrect way, but I kept my mouth shut! the guy was looking at me waiting for me to respond, but i didnt. I just kinda walked away and stayed silent,. I sure dont regret that! Prasie God, He’s working on me to keep my mouth shut! I just kept hearing that verse, “live peaceably with all men, as much IS possible”. I love how God just whispers to us in the midst of trying times and difficult situations and people! He just whispers His word. yesterday some girl made some comment, dont even know what they were talking about, but she said, ‘only the attractive people’…kinda dissing me, like, ‘and you’re not one of them’ I know, dumb and immature, but I heard God say to me: You’re beautiful to Me!!!!! awww, that was with me all night! I just love HIm so much! He’s so good!
Jenny

======= Elizabeth:

Hello,
I must admit that I have always been a bit perplexed about the parable of the unjust steward. I guess he was shrewd to get as much money as he could quickly. We are to size things up in this way, though not dishonestly.
I liked this comment on Luke 16:9,
“And I tell you, make friends for yourselves by means of unrighteous wealth, so that when it fails they may receive you into the eternal dwellings.” Luke 16:9
“There are many warnings about the dangers of riches in the Bible. But this verse teaches that wealth can be thought of as talent which should be fully employed in God’s service.” -Key Word Commentary
This parable makes more sense to me if I think about it from this angle–using our resources wisely, including money, to further His kingdom.
Elizabeth

======= Andy:

Elizabeth, Andrew Wommack has a free 6-part teaching on financial stewardship that touches on the unjust steward.
The parable is highlighting the fact that the master’s master was not money which is why he was not upset when the steward discounted the debts. The verse also spoke to using money to benefit others. AW mentioned that we should see money as belonging to God. Through HIM we have the gifts, knowledge and power needed to attain good things. We should sow back into the kingdom by helping others.
Andy

======= Luch:

I too found the verse on ‘tongue control’ from Proverbs 13 quite convicting. That little piece of flesh in our mouths can get me/us into a lot of trouble, but on the other hand our tongues can bring healing and encouragement.James 3 tells us that if someone can keep their tongue in check, that person is a mature/perfect person. Wow!!
Even Jesus said in Matt 12. “I tell you on the day of judgment people will render account for every word they have uttered. By your words you will be justified and by your words you will be condemned.’ Ouch!!
While shopping in a local Publix I came across the ‘christian book rack’ and saw a book staring right at me. It kept saying ‘buy me, buy me, you need me and so do a lot of other people :). The book was called 30 Days to Taming your Tongue by Deborah Smith Pegues. For a month I have added this one page, day by day reading to my OYB routine.
http://www.amazon.com/Days-Taming-Your-Tongue-Relationships/dp/0736915605
Luch

======= Wendy:

I learned to control my tongue April 29-2009. That was the day my father died. I sat alone next to my deceased father while my family was tormenting me and throwing accusations. Hateful stares and words. With the power of God, I sat 3.5 hours not saying anything. I just waited for them to come after the body. No hugs, no hand holding, no compassion of any kind. Since my birthday is on the 4th of July, I am a true firecracker and have had at times, explosive expressions. I sat shrouded by the Lord. What a friend we have in Jesus. There is still no communication, it will be a year gone by soon. I so appreciate this daily reading. For it gives me strength.
Wendy

======= Lily:

Reading the verses sometimes does not speak to me especially the old testament. However, reading Mike’s blog and postings help me in understanding the readings for the day. Thank you Mike & Ramona for your postings.
Yes we would like to be a blessing to others and make other people happy. But I learned the hard way, happiness ( more so of joy) is from within one’s heart. Yes we should be kind, compassionate to others but salvation, happiness, joyfulness, my thinking, can only come from acceptance on the person’s part. This also applies to us. We could always pray and hope for us and others to accept the joy of knowing that God is always with us no matter what is happening around us.
God bless.
Lily

======= LaRhonda:

I was moved by verse 19 in the seventh chapter of Joshua. I just had my son to visit from another state this week. While on a road trip we were Abel o talk at length
about some family issues. In the end I stated,”My desire is to see my children, all seven, walk in truth and to build their loves on a foundation of truth, In verse 19 I learned that truth gives glory to God..what a powerful verse!
LaRhonda

======= Bob:

“THE TAKING OF AI” By Bob Bieberdorf (me)
Achan!! Achan! Achan?
My mind is in constant turmoil now.
My decisions deal with the lives of people.
I have it good, why should I change that?
This nagging thought won’t go away.
I know the road ahead and it’s so confusing.
If I just keep working hard at other things,
Maybe it will work itself out?
No, the men came back today and told me all the problems.
I was sure it was all taken care of.
All they had to do was wait.
They’re looking to me for answers.
I’m responsible.
I have to act.
The weight is on my shoulders.
Can anyone help?
We came through some unbelievable experiences.
And yet I still have this unsettled feeling.
I’m suppose to do something more.
I will wait, I will be patient and I will see the outcome.
It’s all planned.
History is in the making
Still, I can’t just wait.
It’s too uncomfortable.
Everything will be fine.
I think I will make a cup of tea,
Relax by the peaceful river,
And watch the clouds go by.
Yes, I can do that.
But people have other ideas.
They want results, a plan, some sort of future.
I think I will just wait some more.
And think about,
why Ai failed.
Ai, Ai, Ai?
Bob

======= Caroline:

“Unless you are faithful in small matters, you won’t be faithful in large ones. If you cheat even a little, you won’t be honest with greater responsibilities.”
This is so true in pretty much every aspect of life. It seems like a small lesson, and maybe it is, but it’s an important one.
Caroline

======= Joyce:

Mike and everyone,
Mike, I was reading in one of the links you provided:
“Defeat at Ai and the Sin of Achan” (Joshua 7:1-26) by J. Hampton Keathley III.
Something in that article stood out to me:
“Never is the believer in greater danger of a fall than after a victory.
We are so prone to drop our guard and begin trusting in ourselves or in our past victories rather than the Lord.
One victory never guarantees the next.
Only as it builds our confidence in the Lord and develops our wisdom in appropriating God’s Word do our victories aid us for the next battle.
Always, the basis of victory is the Lord Himself and our faith/dependence on Him.”
Then he quoted this scripture:
“So let the one who thinks he is standing be careful that he does not fall.”(1 Corinthians 10:12 NET)
Such profound truth that I hope to remember!
Sincerely,
Joyce

======= Sarah:

I totally agree with the Proverb today. I do find people who keep talking annoying. The quote from Lao Tzu, the ancient Chinese philosopher, also helps me to control my tongue, “Those who know do not speak. Those who speak do not know.”
Sarah

======= Dee:

Controlling the tongue is a hard one for me. . I love the Lord and love to talk however I don’t believe I let it control me. I learn to bite my tongue alot lately..
Well Ai had wounded the Israelites and now Pay back to them. They only think they scared them out. They turned around and avenged.
I love how the Bible says when He can trust u in little you can be blessed with great. All things are test in hopes of passing
Dee

======= Ramona:

This morning I sent something to Mike regarding one of his comments for the April 13 reading. I sent my response to him privately because I wasn’t sure if it would be appropriate to share with the 995 readers on this site. Mike response to me and gave me permission to post on the site because there may be others who need to understand what “happy” is. (Mike, I may have taken liberties with your response because some how or another I don’t have that e-mail in my msn account at home, maybe I deleted it at work in error). Also I have edited the original response, hopefully taking out most of the typos and extra commas—it was early in the morning when I wrote it.
Mike,
I have spent some time trying to figure out if I should reply to you about your April 13th comments by posting up on the site or to do it privately, obviously I’ve decided to do it off-line.
I have come to have great affection for you and I’m not sure if this is a motherly concern, I hope not, but my desire for you is that you become the man God has created and ordained you to be, fulfilling fully the purpose He has created and called you too. So I kind of cringed when I read this,
>>So, I’ve been thinking about this a bit more lately. And I wondered what it would be like if I went through my days consciously trying to make other people happy. >>
Can we really make people happy? According to the Apostle Paul, our state of mind and happiness is a condition of the will, it is a choice, just read Paul’s letter to the Book of Philippians, especially the fourth chapter
6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; 7and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
8 Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy–meditate on these things. 9 The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you.
God didn’t promise us “happy,” however, he did promise us “joy.” Happiness, I believe, is always based on circumstances; conversely, joy is based on one knowing the final outcome of a thing; and Jesus did say to us be of good cheer for I have overcome the World (John 16:33). If we are in Christ, as Paul has stated, we are over comers. The writer of Hebrews states Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. (12:2). I’m sure Jesus was not happy going to the cross but he knew what his pain and suffering would bring to the men and women He created.
Being a blessing to others is not a bad thing because we are blessed to be a blessing, but taking up a mandate to make others happy will cause you to fall into a bottomless pit. Truthfully, there are a lot of people who have willed themselves to be unhappy, and you may also find yourself casting your pearls before swine: giving to people who God has not told you to give to out of the storehouse from which God has so richly blessed you.
So my prayer for you becomes one of asking God to show you who you are to bless. After all Jesus only did what He saw His Father do (John 5:19). Jesus did not operate out of needs. If that were the case we wouldn’t be living in a world were people are starving. When Jesus fed the multitudes he didn’t create a feeding program He fed them because they had been with Him a long time listening to him teach. When we get to the Book of Acts we will read about a man who was placed daily at the gate of the Temple for a long time, yet Jesus did not heal that man when we walked through those gates the week before His death, why?
I guess in short what I’m trying to say is check why you want to make people happy; pray that God will direct you to the people who He wants you to bless, and don’t live your life based on other people’s testimony and experiences because then you will get what they got, maybe. When we desire to have or to do what other people have done or get what others have gotten, we don’t have all the facts. We may not want to go through what they did to get what they have. God made you an original, find out what that is for you, and don’t become a copy.
Ramona

======= Ramona:

Joshua 7:16-9:2
And the land be subdued before the LORD: then afterward ye shall return, and be guiltless before the LORD, and before Israel; and this land shall be your possession before the LORD. But if ye will not do so, behold, ye have sinned against the LORD: and be sure your sin will find you out. (Numbers 32:22-23 KJV)
We can dig a hole, as Achan did and try to bury the fruit of our sin; we can kill the witnesses to our acts of sin, we can plant the evidence of our misdeed on someone else, but as Numbers 32: 23 states, “…be sure your sin will find you out.” Freshly dug holes, even if a steamroller is used to compact the dirt as tight as possible, always leaves evidence that there is a freshly dug hole that has been covered up. Achan’s family had to have helped him dig, bury and cover up his loot. In this country, USA, one can be tried as an accessory to a crime even if you have not actually done the deed, accessory before and after the fact.
In reading the words of Achan, he only confessed because he was caught—he exhibited a “worldly sorrow” (For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death. (2 Corinthians 7:10 KJV). Achan was sorry and probably embarrassed because he was exposed in the midst of the congregation; however, he was not repentant. We think because we admit to a sin that clears it up; but repentance—after admission to our sin is paramount.
If Joshua had consulted the Lord BEFORE the attack on Ai, would God have exposed the “sin” before they went into battle. I think too often we make a decision based on our own intellect, our own reasoning, and then ask God to bless it as if God was a “cosmic” genie in the great expanse of the sky.
Happiness:
As I see it, happiness is a state of mind, a choice one makes. It is an outlook that one has or doesn’t have. Running after happiness is a fickle pursuit because what one is desiring, outside of Christ, is unobtainable. God didn’t promise us HAPPY He promised us Joy. Joy is knowing the final outcome, happy is based on circumstance. If there is a job opening and there are, thirty applicants 29 people are going to be unhappy. You want to see what Happy looks like, find a person who has walked close to God and been led by the Holy Spirit—You will see a happy person in spite of their circumstances.
Grace and peace,
Ramona

======= John:

Joshua
Others have said it at various times here on the blog. I like the way Believer’s Commentary ended Chapter 8 of Joshua.
“Victory in the Christian life is not the absence of conflict but the presence and protection of God in the midst of conflict.”
MacDonald, W., & Farstad, A. 1997, c1995. Believer’s Bible Commentary : Old and New Testaments . Thomas Nelson: Nashville
John

======= Vance:

Joshua 7 (NKJV)
25 And Joshua said, “Why have you troubled us? The LORD will trouble you this day.” So all Israel stoned him with stones; and they burned them with fire after they had stoned them with stones.
26 Then they raised over him a great heap of stones, still there to this day. So the LORD turned from the fierceness of His anger. Therefore the name of that place has been called the Valley of Achor [LITERALLY, Valley of Trouble] to this day.
NOTE:
See this verse in Hosea 2, where God turns “trouble” into “blessing”. In the passage from Hosea 2, God specifically refers to this account with Joshua and God’s people, and the particular “Valley of Achor, or Valley of Trouble”.
1) First, get the context: God’s people were unfaithful to God, and God was tired of it.
Hosea 2 (NKJV)
2
Bring charges against your mother, bring charges; For she is not My wife, nor am I her Husband! Let her put away her harlotries from her sight, And her adulteries from between her breasts;
3
Lest I strip her naked And expose her, as in the day she was born, And make her like a wilderness, And set her like a dry land, And slay her with thirst.
4
I will not have mercy on her children, For they are the children of harlotry.
5
For their mother has played the harlot; She who conceived them has behaved shamefully.
For she said, ‘I will go after my lovers,…
2) God, in His mercy, is determined to “starve His people” of sinful desires by blocking pathways
to sin
Hosea 2
6
Therefore, behold, I will hedge up your way with thorns, And wall her in, So that she cannot find her paths.
7
She will chase her lovers, But not overtake them; Yes, she will seek them, but not find them.
Then she will say, ‘ I will go and return to my first husband, For then it was better for me than now.’
13
I will punish her For the days of the Baals to which she burned incense. She decked herself with her earrings and jewelry, And went after her lovers; But Me she forgot,” says the LORD.
3) Here is THE GREAT part. God IS ALWAYS EAGER to use even OUR EVIL, BAD
EXPERIENCES to draw us to Him and to work HIS CHARACTER in us
God’s Mercy on His People
14
“ Therefore, behold, I will allure her, Will bring her into the wilderness, And speak comfort to her.
15
I WILL GIVE HER HER VINEYARDS FROM THERE, AND THE VALLEY OF ACHOR AS A DOOR OF HOPE;
She shall sing there, As in the days of her youth, As in the day when she came up from the land of Egypt.
16
“ And it shall be, in that day,” Says the LORD, “ That you will call Me ‘My Husband,’ [LITERALLY, in Hebrew: ISHI]
And no longer call Me ‘My Master,’ [LITERALLY, in Hebrew: BAALI (from false god named Baal)]
17
For I will take from her mouth the names of the Baals, And they shall be remembered by their name no more.
18
In that day I will make a covenant for them With the beasts of the field, With the birds of the air, And with the creeping things of the ground. Bow and sword of battle I will shatter from the earth, To make them lie down safely.
19
“ I WILL BETROTH YOU TO ME FOREVER; YES, I WILL BETROTH YOU TO ME IN RIGHTEOUSNESS AND JUSTICE,
IN LOVINGKINDNESS AND MERCY;
20
I WILL BETROTH YOU TO ME IN FAITHFULNESS, AND YOU SHALL KNOW THE LORD.
*** NOTE:
All of this makes me realize something: Do I wait until God Himself has to separate me from entering into sin in His discipline?
Or…will I will to, of my own choice, set aside time to spend with Him?
If I choose, of my will, to die to the easy and natural (and sinful) way, then I have the TRULY AMAZING AND AWESOME OPPORTUNITY to develop a personal love relationship with the living God!
Vance

======= Vance:

Psalm 82 (NKJV)
1
God stands in the congregation of the mighty;
He judges among the gods.[Hebrew: elohim – mighty ones; that is, the judges]
2
How long will you judge unjustly, And show partiality to the wicked? Selah
3
Defend the poor and fatherless; Do justice to the afflicted and needy.
4
Deliver the poor and needy;
Free them from the hand of the wicked.
5
They do not know, nor do they understand; They walk about in darkness; All the foundations of the earth are unstable.
6
I said, “You are gods, [Hebrew: elohim – mighty ones; that is, the judges]
And all of you are children of the Most High.
7
But you shall die like men,
And fall like one of the princes.”
8
Arise, O God, judge the earth; For You shall inherit all nations.
~~~
NOTE:
Jesus used this passage to defend the fact that He is the Son of God (i.e., and thus God) to the Pharisees and Saducees.
See below from John 10 (NKJV)
30
I and My Father are one.”
31
Then the Jews took up stones again to stone Him. 32
Jesus answered them, “Many good works I have shown you from My Father. For which of those works do you stone Me?”
33
The Jews answered Him, saying, “For a good work we do not stone You, but for blasphemy, and because You, being a Man, make Yourself God.”
34
Jesus answered them, “Is it not written in your law, ‘I said, “You are gods”’? [PSALM 82:6]
35
If He called them gods, to whom the word of God came (and the Scripture cannot be broken),
36
do you say of Him whom the Father sanctified and sent into the world, ‘You are blaspheming,’ because I said, ‘I am the Son of God’?
37
If I do not do the works of My Father, do not believe Me;
38
but if I do, though you do not believe Me, believe the works, that you may know and believe that the Father is in Me, and I in Him.”
39
Therefore they sought again to seize Him, but He escaped out of their hand.
NOTE:
It might seem at first glance that Jesus is saying that it should not be surprising that Jesus should be called the Son of God– one with the Father–since God Himself says that you and I are gods.
However, Jesus seems to be using this verse in the context of forming an argument while debating with
the Pharisees and Saducees.
In no way, is Jesus or the Father calling us “divine”
or “one with the divine” (being god). That is what the devil promised Adam and Eve when they sinned.
HOWEVER, if you look at the clear way the word “gods” is used in Psalm 82, it becomes obvious by the context and the extremely helpful note that “gods” is referring to judges.
~~~
“Judges”, of course, refers specificially to judges in a court of law, whose legal rulings interpret and influence the law of the land.
Yet, the word “judges” is also used in a broader way, that is of our authority as believers in the Lord Jesus.
I Corinthians 6 (NKJV)
1
Dare any of you, having a matter against another, go to law before the unrighteous, and not before the saints?
2
DO YOU NOT KNOW THAT THE SAINTS WILL JUDGE THE WORLD?
And if the world will be judged by you, are you unworthy to judge the smallest matters?
3
DO YOU NOT KNOW THAT WE SHALL JUDGE ANGELS?
How much more, things that pertain to this life?
IN THE LORD JESUS, by HIS GRACE:
1)
we are always under the authority of the Lord Jesus
2)
we share His authority by His own sharing of His authority. As Jesus, the Perfect Man, became our representative. As such, when He was raised up from the dead and to the right hand of the Father, it was for the church.
Ephesians 1 (NKJV)
22
And He (i.e., God the Father) put all things under His (i.e., Christ’s) feet, and gave Him to be head over all things to the church,
23
which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all in all.
Thus, man is restored to a place of glory under the authority and glory of God–made by God to reflect His glory and will on the earth and in eternity.
We were created for the praise of the One who called us by His grace.
Psalm 8 (Amplified)
4
What is man that You are mindful of him, and the son of [earthborn] man that You care for him?
5
Yet You have made him but a little lower than God [or heavenly beings], and You have crowned him with glory and honor.
NOTICE HOW THE AMPLIFIED BIBLE translates verse 5: you and I were created a little lower than God.
While other versions translate this “a little lower than angels” this is not correct. For we were created in the image of God, Who is higher than angels.
You might say, “So what?”
Well, when Adam sinned, he fell from glory of God. When we are restored by Christ by receiving the fact that God has placed us in Christ, we are restored to the glory of God.
Romans 3 (NKJV)
23
for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,
24
being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus,
I Corinthians 2 (Amplified)
7
But rather what we are setting forth is a wisdom of God once hidden [from the human understanding] and now revealed to us by God–[that wisdom] which God devised and decreed before the ages for our glorification [to lift us into the glory of His presence].
IN SHORT: It is all about God and His glory, and not about us.
It is about us living for His glory.
Vance

Joshua 5:1-7:15 + Luke 15:1-32 + Psalm 81:1-16 + Proverbs 13:1
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Old Testament – Fascinating! verses today in Joshua chapter 5 verses 13 – 15 – “As Joshua approached the city of Jericho, he looked up and saw a man facing him with sword in hand. Joshua went up to him and asked, “Are you friend or foe?”  “Neither one,” he replied. “I am commander of the LORD’s army.” At this, Joshua fell with his face to the ground in reverence. “I am at your command,” Joshua said. “What do you want your servant to do?” The commander of the LORD’s army replied, “Take off your sandals, for this is holy ground.” And Joshua did as he was told.”  Tyndale’s One Year Bible Companion says this about these verses – “The captain of the host was no mere angel.  His presence was an appearance of Christ in person.  Joshua worshipped the captain; his worship was accepted and he was neither rebuked nor instructed otherwise.”  Whaddya think?  Was this Jesus in these verses??  Bible.org’s commentary on “The Captain of the Lord’s Army” is at this link.

In Joshua chapter 6 we read about the fall of Jericho to the Israelites – but… things take a turn for the worse in chapter 7 with the defeat at the city of Ai.  It is interesting to note why the defeat happened in Ai, in verse 1 – “But Israel was unfaithful concerning the things set apart for the LORD.”  Think about it.  Israel just had a great victory at Jericho and then they were unfaithful toward God.  I wonder if perhaps we are like this in our lives today as well?  Maybe something amazing happens in our life, and we get so swept up in the victory dance that we forget about God.  And yet… it is God who gave us that victory.  It is God who gives us every good thing we have in our lives.  Are we being unfaithful in our lives concerning things set apart for God?  Below is an image for verses 2 & 3 as Joshua sends out some men to spy on Ai, before the defeat” “Joshua sent some of his men from Jericho to spy out the city of Ai, east of Bethel, near Beth-aven. When they returned, they told Joshua, “It’s a small town, and it won’t take more than two or three thousand of us to destroy it. There’s no need for all of us to go there.””

Bible.org’s commentary on Joshua chapter 5 is at this link, chapter 6 is at this link, and chapter 7 is at this link.

New Testament – Beautiful verses today in Luke chapter 15 verses 8 through 10 – “”Or suppose a woman has ten valuable silver coins and loses one. Won’t she light a lamp and look in every corner of the house and sweep every nook and cranny until she finds it? And when she finds it, she will call in her friends and neighbors to rejoice with her because she has found her lost coin. In the same way, there is joy in the presence of God’s angels when even one sinner repents.””  Do you believe that there was joy in the presence of God’s angels when you repented?  Or… when you will repent?  That is a beautiful thought indeed!

More beautiful verses today (22-24) as we read through the famous Prodigal Son story: “”But his father said to the servants, `Quick! Bring the finest robe in the house and put it on him. Get a ring for his finger, and sandals for his feet. And kill the calf we have been fattening in the pen. We must celebrate with a feast, for this son of mine was dead and has now returned to life. He was lost, but now he is found.’ So the party began.”

Bible.org’s commentary on our Luke chapter 15 readings today titled “Lost and Found” is at this link.

Psalms – I always like reading verses like 1 & 2 in Psalm 81 today – verses that speak of music & God – “Sing praises to God, our strength. Sing to the God of Israel. Sing! Beat the tambourine. Play the sweet lyre and the harp.”  Do you sing praises to God?  Is God your strength?  I’ll go off on a tangent here, which is always a risky thing to do…  🙂  I’ll admit that I am a music junkie.  Really.  I have loved music immensely ever since I was a pre-teen and heard K-TEL’s Hit Explosion with such songs as Survivor’s “Eye of the Tiger.”  🙂 Well, ever since then music has played an interesting role in my life – both positive and negative.  Bottom line is that I think God used music to bring me to Him.  Seven years ago I ended up at a rock & roll postmodern evangelical church where I really first heard songs about Jesus in a rock song!  It was a paradigm shifter for me…  I ended up accepting Jesus as my Lord & Savior at that church two months later – thanks in large part to an amazing pastor there at the time and thanks in large part to the rock & roll worship.  I have to confess that I do love any opportunity I can get to flat out worship God in a rock & roll worship way!  🙂  I do realize the risks of high energy rock music…  it can propel people to do very dumb things.  But I think it can also propel people toward Jesus.  Maybe music is like anything else – it’s a double edged sword.  I will share with you that a buddy of mine shared with me how he threw out every single one of his worldly / secular rock & rap CD’s after becoming a Christian.  He said he didn’t want to be fed by that garbage anymore.  I tried following his lead on this – and actually threw a few CD’s in the trash…  but I pulled them out before taking them to the dumpster.  🙂  I’m starting to think though that I have a few CD’s that need to get to that dumpster here sooner rather than later… I don’t listen to them.  But why keep them around at all?  Hope you don’t mind this long tangent.  Does anyone else have any music / God experiences that you would be up for sharing with us all?  Please post up in the Comments section below!  (And please forgive me for this image below…  I couldn’t resist… 🙂

Proverbs – Proverbs chapter 13 verse 1 may at first glance seem to be speaking about young children – but… I believe it can definitely speak to how we also should respond to God, our heavenly Father – “A wise child accepts a parent’s discipline; a young mocker refuses to listen.”   Are you a wise child of God accepting His discipline in your life?

Worship Video: Today’s readings in Luke about the Prodigal Son reminds me of the Jeremy Camp song “Take You Back:”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-j33hBQKr_k

Have you run away from God? Click here to be taken back into His arms!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on a verse of Scripture today: “I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.” Luke 15:7 NIV

Prayer Point: Pray that you have repented of your sins. Pray that you are evangelizing others you know to repent of their sins and turn to Jesus. Pray that the angels in heaven will rejoice over the lost you know being Found.

Comments from You & Questions of the Day:  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.

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

======= Ramona:

Joshua 5-7:15
Joshua 7: 10 But the LORD said to Joshua, “Get up! Why are you lying on your face like this? 11 Israel has sinned and broken my covenant!
When is it the right time to pray? Obviously from this passage the time Joshua chose to pray was not the right time. When was the time? I believe they should have prayed before they went to attack the city of Ai.
Israel was handed a big victory, Jericho. They then assumed from that victory that they, not God, were the source and reason for their victory. I have been in the same predicament as Israel. I’ve experienced great victories in my walk and then I’ve assumed that God sanctioned everything I planned to do after that victory. Only problem I never checked with God until after my harebrain scheme failed.
Luke 15:1-32
31 “His father said to him, `Look, dear son, you and I are very close, and everything I have is yours. 32 We had to celebrate this happy day. For your brother was dead and has come back to life! He was lost, but now he is found!’ ”
Prodigal means wasteful which is how the youngest son handled his inheritance; however, the oldest was also wasteful. He wasted the relationship he had with his father by not valuing what he had already been given, nor valuing the fellowship he maintained while his brother “lost.” He was wasteful because he focused on the minuscule amount of “money” spent on his brother’s celebratory feast instead of recognizing the enormous value in the double inheritance he also received when his younger brother left home. He was wasteful because he placed no value in enjoying what he had to focus on what his brother “took. “
Proverbs 13:1
I have this thing about self-control and discipline and it seems the writer of Proverbs does too. Without it opportunities slip out of our grasps because there are no boundaries to hold them in. Without the boundaries that discipline and self-control gives us, anything can go out (of our lives) and everything can come in. Proverbs 12:1, NLT, says “To learn you must love discipline; it is stupid to hate correction.”
Grace and peace,
Ramona

======= David:

It is interesting how Joshua goes directly on his face before God after their defeat. He doesn’t pout and moan he goes straight to God and God gives him an answer.
Sometimes when bad things happen, we get the PLOM (Poor Little Old Me) disease, when we should get on our face before God
He Has the Answers
Simper Fi!!
David

======= Anka:

“Israel has sinned… That is why the Israelites cannot stand against their enemies; they turn their backs and run because they have been made liable to destruction”…still chewing on our part of the deal in getting God’s promises..Right now we too are at war…against our flesh and the devil but if we have sin in our lives we will be not “overcome the world”…the world is full of sin,if we’re not in it then we shouldn’t have any thing that belongs to the world yet is detestful to God(sin)…or else we’d be going into battle VERY poorly equiped(that’s putting it lightly)….
Does that mean shut ourselves in church and not reach out to the world…nope…reach out to the world as Jesus did but still remain Holy as he did…The spies went to Rahab’s place but didn’t defile themselves but brought her out.Rahab lived among the Israelities but I’m pretty sure she gave up her ways and took up God’s ways…
Music …yep it has a way of just worming in a certain message…good or bad…I was crazy about linkin park about 3-4 years ago…I actually identified with their lyrics too…then I found fun christian music and somehow secular music just died out of my life…now and again certain songs still do cause a stir but I get over them quickly..There are other areas in my life I still struggle with though…but as God showed the Israelities their enemies and said destroy them….God is telling me now….destroy your attitudes…
God bless you all
Anka

======= Shane:

The Commander of the Lord’s army is definitely Christ. Anything else would mean there was treason that day. The Commander, after all, accepted worship from Joshua. No *regular* angel does that (See Rev). But that’s not to say that Christ was incarnate, only that it was He who was there.
Here’s what I found most interesting in the reading: the representative principle motif of the Bible. Rahab helped the spies, and her whole family was spared. Achan sinned, and dozens died in battle. Furthermore, as we’ll read tomorrow, Achan’s whole family gets stoned because of Achan’s sin. Whenever Paul starts writing about how God is sovereign in salvation, people get in a tizzy. Yet when God demands that people are killed as a result of another’s sin, they seem to have no problem with it. Why? Aren’t the same objections present in both, for those who limit God’s sovereignty? The same goes for the inhabitants of Jericho. If you’ll notice, in our narrative all the way through Joshua we’ll see how the Israelites are to take no prisoners and leave no survivors. Why is it that people who balk at God’s sovereignty in the NT never blink at this sort of thing in the OT?
Along those same lines, in the NT we read today some incredibly encouraging words. Christ, the Shepherd, ensures the perpetual salvation of His sheep (*as the lost sheep is always a sheep, see John 10 for the significance). And how the Lord rejoices when a sinner comes home! Never did the prodigal lose his title as son, and as he approaches his father, it is joy that wins the day.
Shane

======= Emily:

Shane,
Destruction and killings of those foreign people is in accordance with their sins. Some of these foreigners had very depraved lifestlyes such as child sacrifices, temple prostitution, debauchery and corruption like Gomorrah and Sodom. It was just that these places were destroyed.
God knows the hearts of men. When God destroyed Gomorrah and Sodom he knew there wont be even 10 righteous people in the city. But when he sends Jonah into Nineveh He knew there were thousands of people who had fear of lord in their hearts and would repent.
Wrath of God will strike sin but God will bless repentence and righteousness.
Emily

======= Shane:

Emily, you can try to explain away the killing of Jericho’s inhabitants by their hearts being depraved. I agree.
But no such explanation can be made for Achan’s wife.
She got killed ‘cuz he got killed. Plain and simple. I’m not saying it’s wrong; indeed, it’s God’s will. What I am saying is this: nobody objects to it, but they’ll raise cain, so to speak, when talking about election. And isn’t what we see in this chapter God saying, “I’m giving victory to My people, and destroying those who are not My people.” And with Achan’s wife, God says, “I’m killing you because I’m holding you accountable for your husband’s sins.” Why is that cool, but election not??
Shane

======= John:

Shane,
We agree on “election/predestination”, so you will not see me rasing “cain” like you posted.
I can see how people would vary in their reactions to the situations of your post.
Most Christians when really questioned about it – would hold God is soverign in death. None of us are promised a day more than today. God decides our life span, and whether God is explicitly involved in “man’s” physical death – the day is set.
Some Christians might feel uncomfortable with God calling for immediate death as a judgment, as in these Joshua passages. But maybe that is the revealing nature of the passages – that He can and does control life, and there is a consequence to disobeying the “direct” commands of the Lord. Afterall, God could have just made people drop dead of apparent natural causes without saying a word to Joshua. but then people being people could rationalize it away, instead of recognizing the deaths for what they were – 460 years of rejection of God by the Canaanites (April 10th post), and disobediance by Achan (which I have not read about yet).
Achan’s family. They knew about the stolen items, and they knew the Lord’s command. Family could have talked him out of it, or turned him in. If the punishment had not been so severe, then perhaps it starts happening at every battle, and Israelites start stealing from each other, assaulting and murdering for precious items, etc. We don’t know the consequences of the punishment not being severe.
“Election” becomes another whole can of worms. While Christians can acknowledge God controls and is soverign over physical life and death. Eternal life becomes a contention point.
What I have heard from people who disbelieve the Doctrine of Election is bottom line: Man has the freewill to determine his salvation. That ultimately “Man” is the “straw that stirs the salvation drink”. God can draw you, God can warn you, God can want you, but ultimately it is “man’s” decision.
Forgetting Scripture for a moment. The above is hard for me to believe, since God has always had a perfect plan. If John Doe is desired and in God’s plan, yet John Doe rejects Jesus and dies – then God has to adapt his plan. Well, if the plan was perfect, any change would make it less than perfect. By thinking that man has that kind of power to affect God’s plan, one denigrates who God IS.
So, to sum up. One can have no problem with God’s soverignty over physical life and death, and yet can believe that eternal life is “man’s” choice, and thus get bothered with talk of soverignty in this area.
Personally, I would prefer to wait until after the Gospels to discuss this area of God’s soverignty. Since you brought it up in a comparison with today’s passages, I thought I might point out, right or wrong, why some people feel the way you described.
John

======= Shane:

John, I had just been having an email conversation with Emily regarding election, so it was on the brain when I was reading Joshua. Of course, it ties in with our Luke passages as well (I mean once you’re already thinking about it) regarding the security of the coin, the sheep and the son.
Nevertheless, I don’t normally wear my Calvinism on my sleeve, so I’ll leave it ’til about the middle of John. 
Shane

======= Luch:

I don’t know about anyone else but I feel ‘tension’ when reading Joshua. As much as I want to ‘spiritualize’ what I read, I see a kind of ‘cleansing’ going on of the ‘evil people’ in the land. Under orders from the Lord of Hosts, Joshua and the Israelites move in with a severity that can’t even be matched in military circles today. I know I know that God is holy, just and sovereign. And I”m glad to see that He not only judged the people in Ai and Jericho, but He also judged His own people.
What makes me feel tension is that in reading Luke 15, we have Jesus teaching that the Father pursues and pursues until he finds the lost ones, and carries them home. Was ever a more beautiful picture written than the one of the Father and son embracing!!
For what I don’t fully understand in God’s dealings with the ‘world’ in Joshua, I always let Jesus have the last word in my understanding of how to connect to our/my world today. “You have heard that it was said, but I say to you….” Matt 5
As to music, I prefer we don’t legislate music ‘flavour’s. There is so much secular music these days that is leading people to ask good questions as to the meaning of life and death, maybe that music is like the ‘goads’ spoken of in ecclesiastes. I think the key is to listen with discernment. For example, I am 52 but my son has introduced me to a band called Death Band Cutie. When I listen to this music it takes me right into reality of how things really are in life, whereas sometimes some ‘Christian music’ actually misleads me (not all just some). I have found myself listening to Death band cutie and then ended up praying for people and young people I know who are living those lyrics. I guess one way forward is to practice the spiritual discipline of discernment, and not just react defensively and hideaway in our holy huddles. If Luke 15 teaches us anything it teaches us that the Father is forever pushing us out of our holy huddles towards a needy and hurting people.
Luch

======= Emily:

Luch,
If you consider how evil, evil can be you will be thankful to God for its destruction. Truman Capote’s book ”In cold blood” that I only read lately made me realize the reality of evil. It will also be a painful book for Christians since you will see a noble,hard working, loving Christian family mudered brutally in a single night of evil and crime. Consider also the massacres in Rawanda and Sierra Leonne (whole villages plundered, men butchered, women raped and killed in most brutal ways.) Evil knows no good or compassion that’s why God hates it. Satan will never repent that’s why he will be destroyed with all evil.
No doubt Father pursues and pursues as it is the good will of Father to save all the world. Yet, some men keep on running away from the commands of God towards darkness and evil. In the end they run out of their chances:
”Truly you set them in slippery places; you make them fall to ruin. How they are destroyed in a moment, swept away utterly by terrors.” (Psalm 73:18)
By the way, for sure it sounds unfair to human judgement that evil still walks the earth with impunity. God has not turned His eyes from it. Only that its time has not yet come.
Emily

======= Kate:

As to the rock and roll music I am with you there. I think of that old song “Just give me that old time rock and roll”. As to whether you should throw it out, I think thats a personal decision, it depends on where your heart is or where it goes when you listen to it. Personally I would have trouble throwing out all of my secular stuff, course my secular stuff is the orginal cast of “My Fair Lady”. I love old musicals but then I love music period, it doesn’t matter what it is, I’ll even listen for a little while to country western, but not too long cause I’m a snob too. : )  But the thought that all the angels in heaven rejoice when I repent, WOW, that got to me. Then God would run to me and put a brand new robe on me and celebrate when I repent. That’s humbling, Thank you Jesus.
Kate

======= Sammy:

Regarding music and our approach to it, I honestly believe God likes all music…After all, he created it. It is so important that we realize that there is no such thing as secular or Christian music. Music is just music! Lyrics determine whether it is secular or Christian. So listen on to the music; just check out the lyrics…they’ll get you every time.
Sammy

======= Emily:

No doubt music is divine and all music is pleasing.
Though, just a strange thought struck me on the mention of music so many times… Satan was originally the chief musician in the God’s kingdom, well- versed in different kinds of musical instruments.
I wonder if this should serve as a warning not to be attracted to appealing music with ungodly lyrics ? It can also serve as an analogy, by the way.
Emily

======= Laura:

Emily: King David was also a music enthusiast. The book of Psalms contain many lyrics written by David. I believe that the book of Psalms offer a good preview of Christian music to come, and are some of our earliest Christian songs. Many Christian music artists today take their lyrics right out of Psalms and many other verses found in the bible.
Christian music does have a major impact on my life. I’ve promoted Christian music concerts at our church before. We invited Mitch McVicker to come once and were very blessed to have him. Some of you have probably heard of Rich Mullins, right? Well McVicker traveled with Rich and was his drummer. Mitch was in the SUV when Rich Mullins died in that accident many years ago. Mitch tours with another guy and they are very good. Mitch McVicker suffered a coma due to the accident and gives an amazing testimony when he sings. I helped arrange for Mitch to play at the Spirit West Coast music festival in Monterey CA back in 1999. I got to meet his family who came out to see him and take vacation. I love going to the music festival and have attended many of them. If anyone is out in Ca from August 3rd to 5th this year, I encourage you to check it out. It would be a good vacation get away. I think I might of mentioned this before in another post. Spirt West Coast Concert dates are May 26-28 in Del Mar (southern Ca) And in Monterey (Central Coast, northern) posted above in August. Music concerts appear all over the United States and in other parts of the world as well. There are Christian music cruises such as the one in the Mexican Riviera. I’m not a promoter for them, so don’t get me wrong. I believe that a lot of people come to Christ, as Mike said through concerts and Christian events such as these. Some of those people would never darken the doors of a church. If events such as these, get people to church, it has to be a good thing.
I promoted a youth concert that was lots of fun. We had the band Switchfoot play. They are surfers from southern Ca and are pastors son. Great group of guys.
Good study in Joshua today, I had forgotten about the part of Joshua encountering the angel who some believe was the Lord. Very neat stuff. Enjoyed todays reading. Blessings….
Laura

======= Jan:

In regard to music: I have lots of secular lyrics/music…some just intrumental movie soundtracks (mostly about flying). I have some CD’s by Vince Gill, Martina McBride, Celine Deon; Nat King Cole & lots of beautiful worship & praise music. AND…I will tell you this…the lyrics to 99.9% of secular music that I listen to brings no life at all. After I listen to it for a while…I have to stop listening to it & go back to Words of Life. It is all about what we put in our “ear” & “eye” gates…the pride of life & the lust of the eye that will tempt & get us every time. I watch less TV than I have in all my life & read more books (Christian nonfiction material) & read the Word daily. I can only listen to secular lyrics for so long & then the Holy Spirit woos me back to the “truth” & I leave the world behind once again.
Jan

======= John:

Music
I was raised on Led Zeppelin, Rolling Stones, and Beatles. Pre-salvation never collected music or listened to it at home – just on radio at various times, or in nightclubs.
Currently, I have just a few CD’s, and all of them are arrangements of hymns with very few exceptions. I have grown to like that music since being saved. Could NOT stand it – Pre-salvation.
My only concern about modern Christian music is when the music (loudness)overcomes the lyrics, and when it becomes a “show” instead of worship.
I understand that contemporary Christian music is a draw to youth and appealing to a segment of Christianity in general, and that most often the lyrics are straight from scripture. If someone is saved at a concert or at a service where it is “showtime” I often wonder whether it was the emotion of the music (or moment) or a true “turning back to the Lord” and repenting of sins. However that is not my call, and in the end it is between God and that person.
For me, occassionally listening to CD’s at home, singing mostly traditional hymns at Worship, and listening to hymns on traditional Christian radio network are my diet of music. As to CCM, I just pray that it can be used to glorify God.
John

======= Becky:

Josh MacDowell’s book, “Evidence That Demands a Verdict,” was the one that made me make up my mind and become a believer.
Becky

======= Pat:

Mike, let me share a true story with you that may explain why you haven’t thrown out the CD’s. When I was in college, I went with my Mom and Dad to a party given by one of their good friends Vic. Years before Vic had told me that he was an alcoholic and hadn’t had a drink in years. I was surprised to see an unopened fifth of Kentucky bourdon sitting in the center of his mantle in the living room and just kept staring at it. Vic came over and explained that it had been nearly 20 years since he had consumed any form of alcohol. He placed the unopened bottle on the mantle the day he stopped drinking and it had stayed there unopened ever since. He said that every time he looked at it he thanked God for opening the door of his heart and throwing out his addiction. This really made an impression on me! I’m now nearly 65 and still tear up when I think about the great message that God used Vic to deliver to me as a young college student. Vic was buried with that bottle and his faithful Bible in the coffin with him and everyone at the funeral was deeply touched and in tears as the minister explained the meaning of them during the service. Maybe having the CD’s in the house but not listening to them is your way of dealing with and accepting how God has changed your life. Why not display one where you can see it and every time you look at it do as Vic did – lift the Lord up in praise and thank Him for coming into your heart and changing your lifestyle?
God Bless!
Pat

======== Birdie:

OT: You would think that after all the Israelites had been through that they would not be in such a hurry to disobey God. But, I guess since man is born with a sinful nature greed had to come out. Now even though in our story there was just one man who had stolen something, everyone was going to suffer. Often when one person sins, they (or we) don’t think anyone else will suffer, or even know. It doesn’t work that way. It’s almost like a pebble thrown into the water. The ripples just keep flowing outward.
Birdie

======= Pat:

Luke 16:9 “I tell you, use worldly wealth to gain friends for yourselves, so that when it is gone, you will be welcomed into eternal dwellings.”
This verse has been on my mind for the past two hours. My Mom and Dad were so different! Mom would always say, “The Bible says neither a lender nor a borrower be.” And she lived by that rule. Dad would smile and say, “I think God intends for us to help our friends” and he was always there for anyone who had a need. Now Dad had a rule – don’t lend anything that you couldn’t live without if it wasn’t repaid. If the borrower doesn’t repay you in due time then shake his hand and let him know that you intended that loan as a gift and he can consider it paid in full. Then he said that you needed to wipe the slate clean and forget that the loan/gift even existed.
When Mom died the funeral home was packed but when Dad died there was a line outside that stretched clear around the block. People we had never seen before from all over the state came and told us of how Dad had helped them during a hard time. Dad never mentioned what he did for anyone – didn’t even tell my Mom. My sister and I both truly loved our Mom but we adored my Dad, and we have tried to live our lives by Dad’s philosophy. Mom was a successful career lady and a community and state leader who was proud of her achievements and enjoyed a more formal life. Dad owned his own business but never talked about it and he was quiet, laid back, loved the beauty of nature and loved to make others laugh. They both have a place now in God’s Kingdom because they both accepted and loved Christ dearly and I know Christ loved both of them even though they were as different as night and day.
Dad never quoted Scripture to us like Mom did, and it was not until this morning that I discovered the Scripture that Dad lived his life by. What a joyous discovery this has been. Praise the Lord!!!!!
God Bless,
Pat

======= Jenny:

Joshua is a great book. I definitely believe it was Jesus because anytime a man fell down in worship to an angel, he was rebuked, but by His acceptance of worship, it shows He was the One who is worthy of worship.
Josh. 7:10 kinda made me laugh, “So the LORD said to Joshua: ‘Get up! Why do you lie thus on your face?’”
The story goes to show sin in never hidden, not from the eyes of God! Look how it affected the innocent ppl. I notice this is my life too, after a victory, perhaps I do something wrong, get my eyes off the Lord and its followed by a huge defeat and I fall to the ground, why Lord? So what’s the remedy? God commands: Get up, sanctify yourself, get rid of the sin/disobedience in your life, forsake it. Then move on.
In Luke :“This Man receives sinners and eats with them.” This is interesting because in those days, when you ate with ppl, it was an intimate fellowship; you touched the same thing, kinda shared each others “cooties”. To partake in a meal together was a symbol of being one, taking in part of each other. What I touch and you eat, becomes part of you and what you’ve touched and I eat, becomes part of me. So eating meals together signified a becoming of “one” with each other in those days. That is why these religious guys got so bent out of shape with Jesus…they saw Him as becoming one with “sinners”.
There is definitely joy in heaven when someone repents. I’ve had the blessing of going to a Big tent revival at my church for the past few weeks, great guest speakers and sooo many people getting saved! My Pastor said after dozens of ppl got saved last night, ‘man, the angels rejoice when one person gets saved, can you imagine the party they are having now!!’ =)
We could all feel it too! The joy of seeing someone get saved never gets old. Its sooo beautiful! Tonight too, many came to Christ, it was sooooooo wonderful! it just brings you to tears!
The Prodigal son. This guy takes off, lets say to a Vegas like city, and looses everything. So many ppl make poor decisions and find themselves in such miserable conditions, strung out, homeless, ruined lives! So this guy was reduced to eating pig slop! He could have stayed there, but it says he “came to his senses” and went back to his father (of course symbolic for the person who strays from the Lord and come back).
“But when he was still a great way off his father saw him…” sounds to me like the father was expecting his son to return. He knew his son was making a bad move and knew he’d suffer the consequences. I bet you he was watching, waiting expectedly.
“[the father] ran and fell on his neck and kissed him” He didn’t stand there and wait, he didn’t walk…he lifted up his robe and ran to him!!! This is like our Lord, when we return, God runs to us!!! He never rejects us, but when we return, He runs to us, embraces us, forgives us! He rejoices! He loves us so much!!
“Bring out the best robe and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand and sandals on his feet.” Sounds like his father didn’t mind that the son was probly dirty, smelly and smelled like pigs. Just like us, wen we repent and return, God runs, welcomes us back, and takes us as we are before He cleans us up!
Notice the older brother was jealous, bitter….I haven’t sinned, why are you blessing him? What about me? Talk about a pity party…sounds just like me! I know its awful, but I admit, when I see someone who blew it, come back, yes I’m happy, but then I see they look better off then me. How come he’s blessed and rewarded for running off and screwing up when I have been faithful all along? God has dealt/deals with me regarding that. Like in John 21, when Peter complained to Jesus about John, ‘What about him?’ Jesus answered: what is that to you? You follow Me!” (v. 22.) Can’t tell you how many times God has spoken that to me!
I could go off on a music tangent too. I’m a huuuuge music fan! I gave it to God. He will deal with it over time. I struggled with not listening to secular music for yrs, but I felt restricted, I didn’t feel free in Christ. I monitored wat I listened to of course…and God shows me the thoughts that go in my mind when I listen to bad music, thoughts of self pity or anger…they all take my eyes off Christ…and shows me the consequences, but lovingly.
I pretty much only listen to Christian music now, not because I tossed my cds and am too holy for secular music, but I gradually am just changing, I have a heart now that just wants to meditate on the Lord, worship Him.
I know some ppl think if its rock, even Christian, its bad. My dad is like that…if it has “a beat” it must be bad. But I can tell you, one of the best concerts I ever went to was Kutless and we rocked out hard!!! and worshipped the Lord, it was amazing! God was soooo there, it was amazing!!!
Ps. 81:12-16 really stood out for me!
Some books I have heard were great: the Case for Christ, Mere Christianity, the Purpose Driven Life (tho I think the author is going off in the deep end now…so don’t know, but good solid Christians have said the book is good.). I know Greg Laurie has some great books directed toward seekers, but cant think of any off the top of my head.
Jenny

======= Tim:

The levites could receive tithes because they had no increase, but had to trust God for their inheritance. The other Israelites gave tithes because they had an inheritance, but had to trust God for an increase. Today, the “laymen” still have to give a tithe and still trust God for their increase, but the “church staff” receives the tithe and takes inheritances among the people. Somehow our leaders have taken the doctrine of tithing and fit it into the gospel the comfortably fits their circumstances.
The NT way of giving is supposed to be only by freewill offerings, because we all are priests, and are only wandering in a wilderness waiting to cross the Jordon to receive our eternal inheritance. While in the wildreness, Israel only gave freewill offerings. they did not give the tithe until they crossed the jordon and entered the promised land. So it would make sense that as God’s chosen people we give our offerings freely and cheerfully, and then when we receive our eternal inheritance in heaven of jewels and crowns then we throw them at the high priests feet.
Tim

======= Julie:

I wanted to thank you for posting the links to Bible.org’s site. Joshua 7 spoke to me & cut me to the core today & that link opened my eyes to a mystery I have been trying to solve.
I had to repent of something I had no idea that I, too, had carried away with me from a victory that I shouldn’t have & then boasted about ‘it’ instead of the victory that God gave me. I have been caught up in the happiness of what I possessed instead of the reason I got it. I had made it my idol & didn’t realize it. So therefore I have placed it far away from me.
I wondered what was wrong in my life in the past months because something just hasn’t been well with my spirit & have prayed for insight to show me. Thank you for being a vessel for which it was brought before me!
Keep up the good work here.
Julie

======= Lori:

I too am a music junkie. Except for opera, I used tolisten to everything. My youth pastor used to say there were three kinds of music, good, bad, and the best, and the good was the enemy of the best. I didn’t get it until I was much older and I heard my own small child sing some horrible music lyrics innocently while playing. Now, there are a lot of really good christian radio stations available to listen to. About 4 years ago I decided I was not going to listen to secular music any more. I committed myself to listening only to the best and I have been so blessed. I had not realized how many ugly messages and lies I had floating around in my head until the truth replaced them. Now when I hear worldly music lyrics, like in an office, I cringe at the message the lyrics are feeding people’s souls. Praise God for christian musicians and radio stations, Praise God for the true Rock that sings in my heart.
Lori

======= Rachel:

I grew up listening to Christian music. Of course I picked up bits of secular music here and there, but for the most part I was only allowed to listen to Christian music. When I started college a couple years ago I started listening to all kinds of secular music because I was on my own and could do what I wanted. I became addicted to gothic music (various genres including rock, metal, electronic, industrial, etc.) and it started dictating my life. I always had music playing in my head, and most of the time it contributed to me being depressed. This past week I re-dedicated my life to Jesus and my desire for that kind of music is gone! I’ve been listening to a lot of music that I used to listen to in church as a kid and it’s done so much to lift my spirits. I’ve never really been into much Christian rock, because as my mom says, “it’s too close to secular music.” But I do understand how that kind of music could be beneficial for some people for the same reason.
Rachel

======= Barb:

IMHO when I read about people separating themselves from secular music it reminds me too much of the Pharisees, separating themselves as the clean from the unclean. As Christians we need to hear other people’s stories and listen to their hearts, patterning our ways after Jesus, who always wanted to get down to the heart of the matter. And music is an expression of where an artist’s heart is at.
Barb

======= Tom:

I have to say I had a somewhat similar experience to Mike when I discovered a (hyper)charismatic church in my 20s and found it so much more lively and enjoyable than the “dull” boring staid Methodism I was used to. However, 30 years on and a lot of other churches since, I’ve changed my mind on it. I too really love “boppy” music and the louder/faster the better, but when I came across a song with a tune I adored but lyrics of “Yay God” I just thought – if you were to meet God face to face there’s just NO way you’d turn to him and say “Yay God”, and that was when I changed my attitude. I do still enjoy some faster beats but the lyrics are now much more important to me. I no longer want to sing songs that sound so secular you can’t tell the difference (& I enjoy many secular songs), nor do I want “soppy love songs” – I want songs about GOD, not about me, and I think we need to remember just Who our Awesome God truly Is – worship Him in SPirit and Truth, not rock & roll :)).
Tom

======= TJ:

This is my first comment to your blog, but I wanted to let you know how much I apprecaite it. It is becoming a part of my normal morning routine as I dedicate the first portion of my day to Him!
I wanted to suggest to your readers that if they would like an awesome exposee on the power of the Prodigal Son story, I would strongly suggest ‘The Prodigal God’ by Timmothy Keller. This provides so much depth to the story and places the roles of each player in the story in such a great perspective. According to Keller, the story is as much about the older brother than the younger. As Crhistians, many times we become like the older brother, waiting outside the tent and stubbornly refusing to enter.
Read the book (or download and listen to it on your IPod like I did) to get more!!!
TJ

======= Jill:

I too would highly recommend and encourage all who come to the one year bible blog to search our Tim Keller’s book, Prodigal God.
God has used this little book to make a BIG impact on my life and thinking. I will never read the story of the Prodigal son again without seeing the richness of what Jesus was teaching to the Pharasies,
Blessings to each of you who come here.
Jill

======= Luch:

I live in Ontario Canada, but really appreciate that I can access this blog from wherever I am. For instance, today I am in southern Florida resting and working, and am enjoying these readings under the beauty of Florida’s sunshine.
Luch

======== Teriann:

I must say that this blog just gets better and better as more people join in! One of my favorite things in reading the One Year Bible is when I see a theme running thru all four passages. Today as I read Proverbs13:1 “A wise son heeds his father’s instruction” a theme emerged. This is what Joshua should have done BEFORE attacking Ai. It’s what the older brother should have done when the father came out to him and pleaded with him to come in and join the party and what the pharisees who were listening to the parable should have done as well. It’s what the Israelites should have done (see Ps. 81:11, “But My people would not listen to Me.”) Heeding has two parts, first we have to seek the instruction and learn just what our Father wants us to do and then we have to actually DO it. I have failed at times in both areas. Like Joshua, sometimes the problem comes from acting on presumption without seeking God first. Other times, like the older brother, I just don’t like the instruction I receive. Either way I’m doomed to failure. So the word for me today is HEED THE FATHER.
Teriann

======= Robert:

Excellent post as always. I enjoy reading this as well as the comments daily. Thank you!
Robert

======= Beverly:

You asked about music and our walk of faith. Like you I have always loved music and there was a time in my life that I spent time at the bar and living a life totally unpleasing to God. During that time I listened to a lot of country music. There was a lot of drinkin’ and cheatin’ songs. When I came back to the Lord I wanted to make sure that I never went back to that life again. I was introduced to Southern Gospel and it was a wonderful experience. Now the music lifted me up and didn’t remind me of the past.
I never felt like it was a sin to listen to country or to rock music but it didn’t give me the lift that gospel music did. I think that being legalistic about music is not the right approach any more that it is right in any area of our lives. It is just that the right thing is better. We are learning that from the reading of Proverbs.
Beverly

======= Al:

Mike,
I also have a broad music background, secular and Christian. I am 69 years old and tend to favor more traditional and classical music, especially hymns of the church, although I have enjoyed many forms of music, incuding rock and the links you include in your blog.
The following link is to a ceremony of the birth of JS Bach about 300 years ago. There is some very interesting information, including the severe hardships he experienced and that Bach signed all his music ‘to the Glory of God.’
The link will also open a performance of one of his many great Christian works. Please use better speakers, phones, adjust the volume and enjoy.
Praise the Lord!
Al

======= Will:

Ramona, I loved your comment in response to Joshua’s question in 5:13 and, “Neither,” from 14: “We Believers have this bad habit of bullying our way through things and past people claiming God is on our side, but this seems to say, “Stop! Not so fast, I’m on the side of Truth. It is presumptuous of us to believe that because we are Christians everything we do is “Righteous.” Thanks for this comment, I’m afraid it rings too true in my life, as did your words about praying BEFORE I jump out in something, rather than after!
Something that I thought about for the first time, as the walls of Jericho came tumbling down, was that is was ironic that Rahab’s home was in those very walls (Josh 2:15) yet her home and all those in it were protected and brought out.
Thanks, Mike, for this blog!
Will

======= Johan:

Once a week i get mails with other christian books which i also love to read. but today I would like to recomend a book with the today storie of luke. http://www.amazon.com/Return-Prodigal-Son-Story-Homecoming/dp/0385473079
it’s a beutifull book which is a must read.
I had expected the painting of rembrent today with the prodigal son. I love it because it because if you look closely you can see that the father god a male and a female hand. (which i think is a very important detail also in with the real father.)
Johan

===== Reuben:

I tried to destroy my record collection when I was in high school. I found out that those vinyl records were literally much tougher to break than I thought! Those movies where (like It’s A Wonderful Life) where you see someone bust up a record like nothing? Bogus.
Reuben

======= LaRhonda:

I love to sing praises to God and am on the worship team at my church. I have learned to steer clear of the music I once loved dearly because I am single and the music makes me reminiscent and my mind wander. I love the Love Songs of the 70’s and have many memories associated with
them. For now I listen to worship to God only…not to an invisible lover!
LaRhonda

======= Terri:

I love listening to Christian music now! I tried to post something yesterday about KLOVE but it wouldn’t let me for some reason!?!? I only listen to KLOVE or another Christian channel called THE WAY!! They play more Christian “rock” and I prefer that sometimes but I do love praising God in my truck while I am driving somewhere!! It helps me to stay focused on what is most important in this life (which is God)!!
Thanks for this blog, Mike and to you also Ramona! I learn so much by reading both of your comments!! On my 3rd year with you guys! Hoping to be doing this for as long as I live!!
Terri

======= Tammy:

I love music also and there are several songs that have become life songs for me and my christian walk. The biggest life changing song for me is Casting Crowns “The Voice of Truth”. When it came out I knew that I was gonna have to get out of the boat I was in someday and walk on faith. Well, that is what I am doing now. I actually love all kinds of music and like you I try to listen only to christian music but I still have my 80’s music around that I pop in every now and then. I also have a daughter that will change my radio station in a heartbeat. So I get to hear Justin Bieber, Adele and current artists because of her. She also listens to Christian music and thankfully there are some that we both agree on and listen to.
I will tell you one funny story since you are a rocker : ) My daughter loves Toby Mac (me too) and wanted to see him in concert. So as a surprise for a good report card and birthday combined I got the two of us tickets to see Toby Mac and Skillet(a christian rock group). I actually splurged and got the stand up tickets at the stage. Well, needless to say I had never seen Skillet before and had only heard one or two of their songS. When they came out, Wow what a surprise for this mom. I actually thought I had taken my child to see some corrupt band. Once I got over the initial shock and listened to the words I was ok and then when John Cooper spoke to the audience about God and Christian living, my fears were totally calmed. With that said, my daughter and I have now seen Skillet 3 times in concert and we share their CD’s in my car and on our ipods. Yes, I rock it out too sometimes even Praising My God while banging my head. I thank God for the gift of music and can’t wait till join that mighty choir in heaven. Just think how awesome that will be. Everytime I read a Psalm with the instructin “to the choir director” at the beginning a find myself wondering just what that song sounded like. Do you think their music evolve thru the ages like ours does?
Once again, thanks for the blog. I totally enjoy it and I think it has helped motivate me to keep this up this year.
Tammy

======= Doug:

Mike
Over the years I collected over 100 record albums of country music,the 33 1/3 records and several boxes of cassetts and I dumped them all. Today I listen to Moody network music or southern gospel radio and am blessed by the music instead of filling my mind with songs that do not honor God.
I love to follow the one year Bible reading and like the Bible.org commentaries.
Thanks Mike
Doug

======= Robert:

Joshua 5and 6: Joshua fit the battle of Jericho; explain this to a first time reader. It is pretty visual stuff and I gotta say a bit weird. The circumcision bit is like – ouch and why does God do this before battle – wound the army so they are basically incapacitated! Now that is trust. Then God takes away their food! Weakening the army more! Ok now we have to rely on faith if this next thing is going to happen. Walk around the wall for 7 days and the walls will fall down. Right? A miracle? Ok, it gets more interesting because we want to save the prostitute Rehab and her family but destroy everything else! Oh, except for the gold, I want that for myself! Then curse the site so no one ever uses it again. Do you really want to ride with this Commander of the Lord’s Army?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ro4ThqkboII
Robert

======= Lauren:

I love that visual in verses 13-15. Joshua says in other words do I know you? Then he realizes it’s God and falls to his knees. Do we have God moments like that? Do we fall to our knees? Sometimes we get to our end. God is always there when we fall to our knees to pick us up! I love this! God never drifts away from us and can’t because He is always there! Our branches just need to bear fruit!
Also in Luke Jesus is rejoices in each lost sheep,who come to him. The illustrations he uses are so relevant in sharing the word with others. How many sheep.have we brought back?
Mike I’m a music junkie too. I grew up with classic rock . To me it was therapy. I also sang in a Christian gospel band for one year when I was a teenager. I love diversified music and I believe God is ok with this. I find the music now is very degrading with curse words or if they lean toward satanic words I don’t approve but reg classic rock is still cool. Trust I’m all for Gods worship music and Love it!!! I think it’s a personal conviction thing! Each person knows in his heart what’s right for them!
Lauren

======= Joyce:

Mike and everyone,
Luke 15:20,31,32 (Amplified Bible)
20 So he got up and came to his [own] father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was moved with pity and tenderness [for him]; and he ran and embraced him and kissed him [fervently].
31 And the father said to him, Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours.
32 But it was fitting to make merry, to revel and feast and rejoice, for this brother of yours was dead and is alive again! He was lost and is found!
What a precious reminder that this is our Father’s heart for each sinner, and even each believer who has wandered off far from Him.
Father, please give us Your heart of compassion, of loving-kindness,
that we may lovingly, patiently, and diligently bring more people back to you. pray in Jesus’ name, amen.
Gratefully,
Joyce

======= Rita:

I really liked what you wrote on music today and that little pic you posted. I can relate to your story especially that I’ve always been a rock music fan and I can say music is a double-edged sword just like everything else. Wisdom is key in this matter; for instance, I don’t listen to the same bands I used to listen to before, but I still listen to music and I love praising at church, in my car, at home…
Rita

======= Judie:

God help us. If Satan doesn’t get us through some of this music, then he sure will through TV. I cannot believe what is allowed to be viewed on TV. I don’t know how many times I had hope that a new sitcom would be something I would enjoy watching. I have not found any that can’t make it half way through the program without someone needing sex. My husband and I look at each other and just shake our heads. I don’t watch a lot of TV, but when I do, I watch the news, some sports with my husband, some talent shows, and my two favorite shows which I record: Sunday Morning, and Live PD. Ah, there is some justice in this world! Sometimes when I am sewing or crocheting, there is a wonderful Christian channel that I watch when I am downstairs. I have enjoyed it so much because there are so many people that come together to worship the Lord.
I just get so upset with the programming on TV and that so many people, especially young people think that this is the way that the world is and that it is acceptable.
One more thing to vent about. I read an interview about one of the top female recording artists who always gathers her people and they get in a circle and pray before performing. But then, when I think of how she dresses, how she moves, and what she sings about, all I could think of was, “would you actually invite Jesus to one of your performances? Do you think He would approve of how you are acting on stage?” I was too embarrassed to watch. Heaven help us. We are indeed living in the end times. Let’s keep walking down that narrow road. Unfortunately, although it is very narrow, it doesn’t seem to be too crowded right now.
Judie

======= Liz:

In the late 70’s or early ‘80’s, we were also encouraged to destroy all music that was not about God or Jesus. With some friends, we burned our albums. We felt both holier (than thou) and remorseful. Thinking back, I really don’t think my Carole King Tapestry or my Best of Bread Albums we’re anti-Christ. LOL! I am picky whose and what music I listen to, but listening to music is no different than drinking lemonade. Lemonade cannot be made holy. It is what you allow to speak to you and if you are always aware of that, the Spirit will let you know if it is not God honoring. I do try to eliminate the music of Jesus haters, demon worshippers, etc. as I do not want to support people, even if it is a “good” song, who openly reject or dishonor God. Of course, I don’t know about most, but when I am made aware, I see it as a warning from the Spirit. I like music from all different venues, from Opera & Jazz to country and hip-hop. Well, maybe one or two songs from Hip-hop. LOL! I like instrumental, a capella, choirs, rock bands, musicals, steel drums, and barbershop quartets. I appreciate gifted artists. A lot of what is called worship music does not stir me, and a lot of the contemporary Christian music, sounds all the same, but songs like Above All or Be Still My Soul and others, absolutely reach my soul. I didn’t realize that you have only been a Christian for seven years. You must have a good discipler. I have recommended OYBB to many as I live how you attach a music video to every day. I notice that this year it is mostly the acoustical versions. Yes, we notice. Thank you for what you do.
Liz

======= Dee:

Hi Mike,
The first part of Joshua today when he asked him if he was the captain: for him or against him? He said neither and take off sandals..reminded me of Moses’ encounter with God at the burning bush..
Then the issue with Ai..and not putting God’s interest as sacred and pure and they paid the price. We do that when we r running the race and take eyes off prize. Eternal salvation. Jesus..hope, grace..all these things ..when we move our focal point we slip and the devil attacks
Luke..I love the prodigal son story. Once was lost now is found..new creation. This wasn’t the son that he once was. Amazing!
Psalm and I love your rants Mike. I love music of all kinds. I still believe I have cassette tapes upstairs. Not sure what to do with them but I believe I have them. Lol
Dee

======= Ramona:

Mike,
“The captain of the host was no mere angel. His presence was an appearance of Christ in person. Joshua worshipped the captain; his worship was accepted and he was neither rebuked nor instructed otherwise.” Whaddya think? Was this Jesus in these verses?? (Ramona, I’m counting on you for this one!  : )
Well I’m just going to answer you with scripture from Revelation,
Rev 9:10-12 (AMP)
10 Then I fell prostrate at his feet to worship (to pay divine honors) to him, but he [restrained me] and said, Refrain! [You must not do that!] I am [only] another servant with you and your brethren who have [accepted and hold] the testimony borne by Jesus. Worship God! For the substance (essence) of the truth revealed by Jesus is the spirit of all prophecy [the vital breath, the inspiration of all inspired preaching and interpretation of the divine will and purpose, including both mine and yours].
11 After that I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse [appeared]! The One Who was riding it is called Faithful (Trustworthy, Loyal, Incorruptible, Steady) and True, and He passes judgment and wages war in righteousness (holiness, justice, and uprightness).
12 His eyes [blaze] like a flame of fire, and on His head are many kingly crowns (diadems); and He has a title (name) inscribed which He alone knows or can understand.
See also: Rev. 19:14; and 19:21
Of course the one Joshua sees is JC (Jesus the Christ) and I think he is seeing Him in His Second Coming as the One riding on the write horse, the one coming with a sword in his mouth (Folks its figurative).
What is really jumping out at me is the passage is the fourteen verse where the Captain states on the question of friend or foe, 14 “Neither one,” he replied. “I am commander of the LORD’s army.”
Us Christians, we Believers have this bad habit of bullying our way through things and past people claiming God is own our side, but this seems to say, “Stop! Not so fast, I’m on the side of Truth. It is presumptuous of us to believe that because we are Christians everything we do is “Righteous.” If we are wrong and trying to push our own agenda, then we are dreamers and or false prophets!
The pastor of the church I delivered a “Bad Report” to the congregation about two months ago. It seems that the sheer size and number of our congregation (22,000) was going over to a well known franchised restaurant whose name has a crustacean in its title and demanding to be seated in front of everyone else waiting because after all we are member of CCC (Christian C. Center), giving a very bad taste in the mouth of non-believers and painting the members as being arrogant, which the ones demanding their way were surly are. As Christians we are supposed to be a fragrance not an odor.
I may not be able to come back tonight to work on the rest of the readings because I will be taking a writing class on Tuesday evenings. I’ve thought about writing up my comments for this Blog as my assignments because the class I’m taking is, Writing “Creative” Non-Fiction,” or work on some of the things I’ve already written up and need to flesh out, hmmm
Grace and peace,
Ramona

======= Vance:

Joshua 5 (NKJV)
5
For all the people who came out had been circumcised, but all the people born in the wilderness, on the way as they came out of Egypt, had not been circumcised.
6
For the children of Israel walked forty years in the wilderness, till all the people who were men of war, who came out of Egypt, were consumed, because they did not obey the voice of the LORD—to whom the LORD swore that He would not show them the land which the LORD had sworn to their fathers that He would give us, “a land flowing with milk and honey.”
7
Then Joshua circumcised their sons whom He raised up in their place; for they were uncircumcised, because they had not been circumcised on the way.
8
So it was, when they had finished circumcising all the people, that they stayed in their places in the camp till they were healed.
9
Then the LORD said to Joshua, “This day I have rolled away the reproach of Egypt from you.” Therefore the name of the place is called Gilgal [ Literally Rolling ] to this day.
NOTE:
There is so much meaning in circumcision.
1. FIRST POINT:
God told Abraham that He would give him a son, a son from his own loins. When Abraham, with an honest heart, asked God to answer the question “How will I know” — God did not take offense. God answered His question.
HOW DID GOD ANSWER HIS QUESTION? (See Genesis 15)
a.
God asked Abraham to cut up animals in half and wait.
b.
A smoking firepot passed in between the cut pieces.
(The smoking firepot was a theophany — a physicial representation of the living, true, invisible God whom no man can see with human eyes and live).
What does that have to do with circumcision?
Because circumcision is not only a cutting away of what is not wanted. It is also a very solemn blood covenant. God, in effect, was saying, “May what happened to these animals –death — happen to me if I do not keep My terms of the covenant.”
Look at how God views blood covenant, in Jeremiah 34 (Amplified):
18
And the men who have transgressed My covenant, who have not kept the terms of the covenant or solemn pledge which they had made before Me, I will make them [like] the [sacrificial] calf which they cut in two and then passed between its separated parts [solemnizing their pledge to Me]–I will make those men the calf!
~~~
2. SECOND POINT
Notice that God in Christ Himself took this a step further.
NOTE: Since Jesus claimed that He is God by saying “I and the Father are one”, some people could ERRONEOUSLY say that God must have failed His promise to Abraham, and that is why Jesus died.
NOT SO!
In fact, the COMPLETE OPPOSITE is true! Jesus is the SUPREME EVIDENCE that God does, in fact, keep His word!
Jesus takes circumcision even further.
In Genesis 15, not only did God love us enough to walk in between the pieces of cut animals and bind mankind forever to Him in His love by showing His determination to bless the world through His people.
On the Cross, God INCLUDED YOU AND ME in circumcision. We were never able to “cut away” sin from ourselves or to truly separate ourselves from sin. As much as I tremendously respect the fasting and prayer of God-fearing people such as sincere and faithful adherents to Islam or any other faith belief… these things can NEVER save anyone from sin.
Only Jesus can save us! Look at what God did through Jesus FOR US on the Cross! THIS IS AMAZING!
Colossians 2 (NKJV)
11
In Him you were also circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, by putting off the body of the sins of the flesh, BY THE CIRCUMCISION OF CHRIST,
12
buried with Him in baptism, in which you also were raised with Him through faith in the working of God, who raised Him from the dead.
13
And you, being dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, He has made alive together with Him, having forgiven you all trespasses,
14
having wiped out the handwriting of requirements that was against us, which was contrary to us. And He has taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the cross.
15
Having disarmed principalities and powers, He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them in it, [i.e., the cross]
DID YOU SEE THAT? Verse 11 is SO AWESOME!
“In Him you were also circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, by putting off the body of the sins of the flesh, BY THE CIRCUMCISION OF CHRIST”
~~~
So what does that have to do with male circumcision? Male circumsion (man being the spiritual leader of his family and community) is a way for us to enter into the blood covenant. In effect, we are also saying, “May what happened to this dead piece of flesh happen to me if I do not keep the terms of the covenant.”
Also, it is totally giving ourselves to the Lord, and completely separating ourselves from what is not pleasing to God.
** And when we feel we are unable to separate ourselves from sin (which we cannot in our own ability), then we go to the Lord Jesus and BY FAITH receive from Him our death to sin.
~~~
I KNOW THIS IS LONG, but this is a VERY KEY part of our Christian faith.
Finally, I like this about the meaning of the place where Joshua had the children of Israel circumcised, in Joshua 5, verse 9:
“Then the LORD said to Joshua, “This day I have rolled away the reproach of Egypt from you.” Therefore the name of the place is called Gilgal [ Literally Rolling ] to this day.”
GOD HAS ROLLED OFF OF US THE REPROACH AND WICKENESS OF SIN! May we, then, EXPERIENCE that by rolling and casting every care every need onto the Lord.
Proverbs 16 (Amplified)
3
Roll your works upon the Lord [commit and trust them wholly to Him; He will cause your thoughts to become agreeable to His will, and] so shall your plans be established and succeed.
I Peter 5 (NKJV)
6
Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time,
7
casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.
8
Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.
9
Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world.
Vance

======= Ramona:

Joshua 5-7:15
Vulnerability:
I am a person that does not like to show any vulnerability. I’m too afraid to let anyone see me sweat or to know that I am in pain or hurt and I know that this aversion is a BIG problem and hinders my receiving anything from God. So it is with great interest that I note Israel became vulnerable before her enemies, right outside the locked up city of Jericho.
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. (Psalms 23:4 KJV)
Israel submitted herself to the protection of God while she waited for all the “fighting” men, who had not been circumcised while in the wilderness, who now were circumcised, to heal. The last time we read of a “mass” circumcision back in Genesis, in the thirty-eighth chapter, Shechem and father and the rest of the men of their little community wound up dead, killed by Jacob’s two boys– Simeon and Levi. They were avenging the rape of their sister Dinah.
Is God on my side or am I on His, and which way should it be?
I have loved the following passage ever since I first read it years ago:
When Joshua was by Jericho, he looked up, and behold, a Man stood near him with His drawn sword in His hand. And Joshua went to Him and said to Him, Are you for us or for our adversaries? And He said, No [neither], but as Prince of the Lord’s host have I now come. And Joshua fell on his face to the earth and worshiped, and said to Him, What says my Lord to His servant? (Joshua 5:13-14 AMP)
What I love about this is that it is a “slap” in the face to all of us who presumptuously feel that we are a special folk so God takes our side in any matter. God is never on man’s side, even here. Joshua is Moses’ successor; hand picked by God yet God is neither on Joshua’s side nor the enemies. The question is Joshua, are you on the Lord’s side. Of the many things that I am leery of and one is when people proclaim that because they are Christians, every step they make is Godly and God has their “back” because they are holy.
Identity Crises?
This entire incident with Ai and Achan, I believe identifies an identity problem Israel found herself facing. Who was she and where and with whom did her strength lie? Was it in the number of “fighting men?” Was Jericho defeated because there were so many of them compared to the number of Jericho’s troops? Her strength came from her relationship with God, He chose her and not she herself. Achan wasted the mercy and grace of God. The same issue, identification, can be found in the Prodigal Son(s). Each one found themselves “wasting,” what they thought was their right to have. The younger wasted the wealth given to him, and the older “wasted” the close relationship he had with his father, neither knew who he truly was.
Wasting one’s relationship, one’s wealth, one’s substance comes about because the “true” value of what you hold in your hands is not recognized. Achan thought the gold and silver was more valuable than the God who brought them into their Victory; the younger son, thought his value was in who he was apart from his father, the older valued what he did and what he attained “working” for his father, more than the relationship with his father. We will stop wasting when we understand what is valuable and what isn’t.
Grace and peace,
Ramona

Joshua 3:1-4:24 + Luke 14:7-35 + Psalm 80:1-19 + Proverbs 12:27-28
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Old Testament – Today is a major day in our readings as the Israelites cross the Jordan River into the Promised Land!  The significance of the events in today’s readings cannot be overstated.  The Israelites 40 years in the Wilderness are over.  God’s Promise made to Abraham is being fulfilled!

I am intrigued by verse 5 in Joshua chapter 3 today as the Israelites are about to cross the Jordan – “Then Joshua told the people, “Purify yourselves, for tomorrow the LORD will do great wonders among you.””  I’m wondering what the Israelites did to purify themselves?  Some sort of ritual purification I’d guess – likely similar to the purification before meeting God at Mount Sinai, which included washing all their garments as well as themselves.  I also wonder what we do in our lives today to purify ourselves?  The first thought comes to mind that we are of course purified today completely by the blood of Christ.  But, then, I also know that once we have made the decision to follow Christ we will still sin on occasion.  And then, is purification needed?  Not from a salvation standpoint – but from simply having a pure heart before God?  I’m thinking that our purification today is confessing directly to God our sins and repenting.  And I think through this process God’s grace arrives in a nanosecond and purifies us.  I think we’re purified by God’s grace today.  But, I think in part we need to recognize our own need for purification and confess to God our shortcomings and repent.  Let me know what you think on this in the Comments below if you’d like.  Again, I’m not looking at this from a salvation / justification perspective – more of the sanctification perspective.  I like the thought of purification – of being pure before God.  I pray for this for each of us.  No dark corners.  No secrets.  Just a pure heart before our heavenly Father.

A watercolor painting is below for verses 16 & 17 – “Then all the people crossed over near the city of Jericho. Meanwhile, the priests who were carrying the Ark of the LORD’s covenant stood on dry ground in the middle of the riverbed as the people passed by them. They waited there until everyone had crossed the Jordan on dry ground.”

Bible.org’s commentary on Joshua’s readings today titled “Crossing the Jordan” is at this link.

New Testament – Wow.  Jesus’ teachings in Luke chapter 14 verses 12 through 14 are so powerful – “”When you put on a luncheon or a dinner,” he said, “don’t invite your friends, brothers, relatives, and rich neighbors. For they will repay you by inviting you back. Instead, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, and the blind. Then at the resurrection of the godly, God will reward you for inviting those who could not repay you.””  How often do we do something for others – in hopes of getting something back in return?  Maybe it’s simply praise?  Or maybe it’s indeed an invite to something else in the future?  Kind of the whole idea of “I’ll scratch your back if you’ll scratch mine.”  Jesus tells us there is another way – care for others that cannot repay you.  Because God will repay you.  And who would you rather receive repayment from for your good deeds – humans or God?  Do you think that caring for the poor is giving to God?  Will you give to God?

Today in Luke chapter 14 verse 27 we read – “And anyone who does not carry his cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.”  I don’t know about you, but I’m not so good at carrying “crosses.” I’m not so good at taking on perceived burdens. I’m not so good at suffering at all. I like to get my way. I often feel entitled to get a lot of good stuff in my life. . . And yet. . . Jesus says if I am to be his disciple I must carry my cross. And I must follow him. I think sometimes in our culture we want to keep up with our neighbors – be hip; be cool; be relevant; know the latest styles; wear the latest fashions; and this list can go on. Jesus tells us to carry our cross. And truly, this is the eternally hippest / coolest / most relevant decision any one of us can make – to take up our cross and follow Jesus. Nothing else matters.

Bible.org’s commentary on Luke chapter 14’s readings today titled “Table Talks” is at this link and commentary on today’s readings titled “How to Hate your Wife” is at this link.

Psalms – Psalm 80 verse 19 today is powerful – “Turn us again to yourself, O LORD God Almighty. Make your face shine down upon us. Only then will we be saved.” I like that opening – “turn us again to you God.”  I don’t believe that God turns himself away from us – but that we do indeed turn ourselves away from God.  And like the Psalmist, maybe sometimes we literally need to pray that God will turn us back toward him.   I kind of come up with the imagery of us maybe sometimes being like pouty kids with our arms folded and our backs toward God – and God is looking at us lovingly – all we simply need to do is turn our face toward God and his grace will heal that pout and whatever is troubling us immediately…   If you need to, will you turn yourself again toward God? 

Proverbs – Today in Proverbs chapter 12 verse 28 we read – “In the way of righteousness there is life; along that path is immortality.” What is the way of righteousness? How does one find the way of righteousness? How does one share with others the way of righteousness? Do you believe there is immortality along the way of righteousness?

Got K-LOVE?  A couple of times each year, I enjoy sharing the impact K-LOVE radio has had in my life. First and foremost, I want to simply share with each of you that listening to K-LOVE has absolutely redeemed so much time I have spent in my car. I cannot tell you how many times I’ve jumped into my car thinking or worrying about x, y, or z and then some amazing song comes on K-LOVE (which is, oh, about all the time!) and I just start singing along and oftentimes worshiping God. This radio ministry has blessed my relationship with God significantly and turned me into a frequent car worshiper! I have a hunch there are many of you out there who know exactly what I am talking about here? I used to be someone who would listen to news or talk radio frequently while driving. However, I now pretty much listen to K-LOVE all of the time in the car. I can get my news easily from other news sources at different times of the day. I cannot get back the opportunity to worship God so frequently in my car that K-LOVE affords.

So, if you’re not a K-LOVE listener, I want to encourage you to please find your local station and give this ministry some time to work in your heart and life! I have a hunch you’ll soon realize how K-LOVE can redeem the time in your car significantly. You can find your local K-LOVE radio station by simply typing in your zip code at this link: https://www.klove.com/. Also, you can easily listen to K-LOVE online at klove.com or on iTunes under their Radio tab, then select “Religious” category, then K-LOVE.

If you are a K-LOVE listener, I do want to encourage you to please consider supporting their ministry. They have been doing their Spring Pledge Drive recently and I encourage you to please make a monthly pledge if you are not doing so already? Will you join me in making a gift of $10 (or more) each month to K-LOVE? You can even make a monthly pledge, one-time gift, or pledge of prayer support right now at this link: https://www.klove.com/. Thank you so much for your support of K-LOVE!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=llLaUpp8-6A

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on two verses of Scripture today: “”Salt is good, but if it loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is fit neither for the soil nor for the manure pile; it is thrown out. “He who has ears to hear, let him hear.” Luke 14:34-35 NIV

Prayer Point: Pray that you are the salt of the earth through your relationship with Jesus. Pray that you will not lose your salt and light.

Comments from You & Questions of the Day:  Based on our Luke 14:27 readings today about carrying our cross, how about you? Are you a disciple of Jesus carrying your cross?  Do you know what your cross is?  Do you want to know?  Are you following Him?  Are you letting worldly and pop-cultural cares fall to wayside of your life as you walk along the true path of following Jesus?  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:

Joshua 3-4:24
I believe the Book of Joshua is jammed packed with models and examples of how to walk by faith giving examples of things to do and things not to do. The third chapter begins with the Israelites leaving Acacia, which also happens to be the type of wood the Arc of the Covenant is made from as well as the poles used to carry it. The wood is very dense and is naturally resistant to insects and diseases and is very heavy. I have compared the Arc to a type of Christ because it was made from a nearly indestructible wood, which was covered in pure gold, Christ like.
The Levities were told after three days (Hmmm, Jesus was in the grave three days.), the people having “purified” themselves before, to “Lift up the Ark of the Covenant and lead the people across the river.” Only this time, unlike the crossing of the Red Sea where the water separated and formed walls in front of their very eyes, the Levites were told to step into the water and then the water would stop flowing, but the place where it stop was about 30 to 90 miles upstream, O my. In Egypt they stepped out on dry ground, now they had to get their feet wet relying on and believing that God had stopped the waters because they couldn’t see where the waters had been blocked.
Boy-o-boy! When we first began our walk with God how many of us use to get our prayers answered one, two, three but now there is a delay. Could it be as we mature in faith and in our walk, God is asking us to trust Him more by telling us we have to get our feet wet? The Jordan is not a pretty river, it is very muddy and at some places it may be just a “trickle” very unlike a river, but that day the Jordan was at flood stage so it was moving fast and it was pretty high. Am I afraid to get my feet wet because I don’t trust God to stop the water because I can’t see where the flow has been cut off?
Everything that happened at this crossing took place because of obedience to God’s Word. Trusting seems to walk hand in hand with obedience and it is in the obedience that good things happen.
Luke 12:7-35
Mike I began really thinking about your question in the gospel reading, “How often do we do something for others – in hopes of getting something back in return?”
I think this whole thing is Jesus’ way of teaching us how to give and receive gifts. Although there is a consequence of not accepting the free gift of salvation, Jesus didn’t give salvation to get anything from us. For us to be more like Him we have to understand what it is too not only receive gifts but what is to give one. The dinner Jesus was invited too had both elements, Jesus told the host to invite those who couldn’t pay him back and the guests were admonished not to try to get a “bigger” place in the house of the host.
If we don’t know how to receive a gift we will have trouble accepting the free gift of salvation. The guest at the dinner thought it was their right to jockey for a better seat to show they had power and position. Jesus told them to stop doing that. And if we don’t know how to give a gift we will misunderstand grace and mercy.
A gift is something you give to someone with no strings attached. If they don’t use it, its on them; if they use the gift, how they use it is on them. Most of us have never received a gift from our fellow man, even our parents. What we really receive are bribes and extortions, we receive things with strings attached and that “ain’t no gift.” When we give gifts we look to endear ourselves to the one we gave the gift too and expect them to treat us right because after all look what I gave you.
This entire reading is about Jesus “renewing” our minds on what it is to receive and give so that we will understand His work on the cross from a new perspective. It is not about us but all about Him.
The parable of the great feast shows what happens when we reject the gift He gives, He will just go out and bestow His generosity on others. The excuses that some of the previously invited guests give are really pathetic or they are very stupid. The guys who brought the field and the oxen and then claimed they had to inspect and/or try the oxen, were utter fools. Who buys a field sight unseen, and who buys an animal without seeing if they will do the kind of work or be the kind of pet they need them to be? Now the guy who said he just got married is also a fool because they date for the feast had already been given because the text states: A man prepared a great feast and sent out many invitations. 17 When all was ready, he sent his servant around to notify the guests that it was time for them to come.
This was one of those invites that said, “Save the Date,” and he didn’t.
Psalm 80
This Psalm is about God’s people suffering before the coming of Messiah. This is the hearts cry of all those waiting for a deliverer even if they don’t know they are waiting. In the beginning of the Psalm the writer is begging God to turn His people back toward Him and he then rehearses their deliverance from Egypt in the hearing of God. He recalls how they prospered comparing the nation of Israel as a tender vine growing deep roots and spreading out. But then they find themselves in a precarious state, broken and defeated by their enemies.
Verse fourteen then turns and refers to a son, and not the nation,
14 Come back, we beg you, O God Almighty.
Look down from heaven and see our plight. Watch over and care for this vine
15 that you yourself have planted,
this son you have raised for yourself
Then the last three verses boldly state:
17 Strengthen the man you love,
the son of your choice.
18 Then we will never forsake you again.
Revive us so we can call on your name once more.1
9 Turn us again to yourself, O LORD God Almighty.
Make your face shine down upon us.
Only then will we be saved.
This cannot be talking about anything but the coming of Messiah! Jesus is everywhere in the Old Testament, He is Christ concealed in the Old and He is revealed in the New.
Proverbs 12:27-28
27 Lazy people don’t even cook the game they catch, but the diligent make use of everything they find.
This cannot be laziness the way we think of it as being. It takes stamina to hunt, at least back then. This must be a laziness of the mind and a lack of understanding of how to take raw material and process it to add value. This is kind of like the Parable of the Talents.
Mike in answer to your question about purifying ourselves as Christians today and what would that look like, I believe we can find lots of examples in the Apostle Paul’s letters. The Epistles were written to churches in specific cities or to individuals and I believe Paul spoke about “purification” often. His letters were written to believers so if he dwelt with sin it wasn’t the sin of the “world” but the sin of those that belonged to the Household of Faith. The fourth chapter of the Book of Ephesians, the entire chapter, is devoted to walking rightly,
20 But that isn’t what you were taught when you learned about Christ. 21 Since you have heard all about him and have learned the truth that is in Jesus, 22 throw off your old evil nature and your former way of life, which is rotten through and through, full of lust and deception. 23 Instead, there must be a spiritual renewal of your thoughts and attitudes. 24 You must display a new nature because you are a new person, created in God’s likeness–righteous, holy, and true.
25 So put away all falsehood and “tell your neighbor the truth” because we belong to each other. 26 And “don’t sin by letting anger gain control over you.” Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry, 27 for anger gives a mighty foothold to the Devil.
Grace and peace,
Ramona

======= Luch:

Regarding purification, there is the part that God does that we can’t add anything to, what is called ‘positional righteousness’ that Ramona already referred to, but then again, we are told to ‘work out our salvation’ with fear and trembling. Phil 2:12. We are to work out what God has already ‘worked in.” “For God is at work IN you…”
Then Paul gives us alot of help in 2 Corinthians 7:1 “Since we have these promises, dear friends, let us PURIFY OURSELVES from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God.” Some of the best writing on this subject is contained in Jerry Bridges’ class “The Pursuit of Holiness” which is in my mind the 20th century version of Bishop Ryle’s 19th century “Call to Holiness.” Not a long book but one that you can mull over and over, and written for our times.
Jesus also said, “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled.” I think that the proactive way to be ‘purified’ is to pursue internal righteousness passionately without making it an external show like the Pharisees. Just pursue it because we delight in God.
I think purification also includes a ‘confessional dimension’ where ‘we confess our sins to one another and pray for one another that we may be healed.” James 5:15-17
Luch

======= Anka:

Purification….hmmm…well true we are washed by the blood of the lamb and we have the gift of righteousness but we do have to work out our salvation with fear and trembling.We need to continually watch our steps and confess our sins…that’s our part of the battle.In Deut 20,it says”the LORD your God is the one who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies to give you victory.” …then it also says “Has anyone built a new house and not dedicated it? Let him go home, or he may die in battle and someone else may dedicate it”…well then the Lord had given the Israelites victory over their enemies but they still crossed the Jordan armed and ready for battle…Like us they had to work for the promises of God…they didn’t just sit down and watch God work…they had a part to play…and for those of them who didn’t…(Deut 25:17 ” Remember what the Amalekites did to you along the way when you came out of Egypt. 18 When you were weary and worn out, they met you on your journey and cut off all who were lagging behind”)..there was a price to pay…if in our own daily battles we don’t do our part which includes purification…there’s a price to pay…by grace Israel was chosen by God…but to maintain their relationship and blessings,they had a part to play…we were saved by grace…but we too have to work out our salvation to the end…after getting saved we still live in a flesh that loves sin and we gotta fight it!!
God bless you all….soldiers:))
Anka

======= John:

Purification
I am not sure, but I regard purification meaning the same as “sanctification”. If that is true, then we, as believers, do not achieve it as much as “strive” for purification (sanctification).
Purification (sanctification) is a process which will not be finalized until we get to heaven.
Personally, I see the confessing of sins as a means to continuing in “fellowship” with God. It is not for forgiveness as Christ died for all sins (past,present, future), but as an acknowledgment that we are still sinners. If we do not acknowledge our sins, then we are in danger of God distancing himself from us – like David. By being in fellowship with God – we can continue in the process of sanctification through the Holy Spirit. If not, then we perhaps become “stuck” Christians. Spinning our wheels, running in place, until a breakthrough is made or worse we receive chastisement from God – which would be meant to get us back on the “way” and progressing towards purification (sanctification).
John

====== Jan:

One thing I find very interesting in regard to Rehab in this account is the fact that in Proverbs it teaches young men or old men not go go the way of a prostitute; yet they went directly to her house?!?!? I have to admit, what were they thinking & why were they going to a prostitute?!?! Here is an excerpt from my Living Faith Bible/NLT:
“God saw through those thick walls of Jericho into Rahab’s heart & brought the 2 spies to her very door. She immediately seized the opportunity to put her faith into action, first hiding the men & then pleading for her life & the lives of her family members. In rather dramatic fashion, Rahab entered into God’s family of faith. By His grace, God also placed this former prostitute & foreigner into the lineage of the coming Messiah (Matthew 1:5). You & I can give thanks that God gladly saves us if we turn to Him, no matter what our nationality, family background, or past sins, for He still rewards the faith of those who diligently seek Him (Hebrews 11:6).”
SO…even though God teaches not to go to prostitutes houses, this was His plan before He formed the earth…it is truly mind boggling to say the least. We just never know what He is up to…He is always up to something…imagine that?!?!?!
jan

======= Ramona:

Jan,
Remember the Prophet Hosea was told by God to marry a prostitute. If something is God directed and your heart’s desire is to follow after God, then ya gotta do what ya gotta do.
Ramona

======== Johnnie:

I think about the verse,
“Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight. Oh Lord, my strength and my redeemer.”
It is the act of surrendering to Him in every part of our life that God is looking for.
Johnnie

======= Penny:

I like your idea about being purified by grace, Mike. Sometimes as I sit still and quiet before the Lord, aware of His presence, being saturated in it, I sense Him doing a cleansing in me. It’s like a holy bath, washing away the dirt and dust that have accumulated. Each morning as I do the OYB readings I am cleansed. The Holy Spirit is the water and the Word of God is the soap.
Jesus said in John 15:3-4 “You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you.
4″Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself unless it abides in the vine, so neither can you unless you abide in Me.
I think abiding in Jesus is an essential part of being continuously purified and spiritually productive.
Penny

======= Edward:

Luke 14:12-24 – In weddings or feasts, most people think of only inviting those who can afford to pay and are generous but Jesus encourages to invite those who are destitute and handicapped to bless them so that God who sees it will bless us in heaven. Have we considered who shall we invite to the Lord’s banquet? Do we invite only those whom we think are worthy by our own standards? Maybe God is telling us to cast our nets to the less fortunate or those at the crossroads in their lives or imprisoned since those people whom we think are “worthy” are not keen and feel they have more important things to do then to know the Lord.
Luke 14:26-33 – Jesus says in V27 “Whoever does not bear his own cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple.” and continues in V33 “So therefore, any one of you who does not renounce all that he has cannot be my disciple.” What is the cross that Jesus would have me to bear daily to follow Him? Is there something that I must renounce of so that I am worthy to be His disciple? Have we calculated what it takes to be His disciple or will we just give up halfway. Jesus is not telling us if you are not ready, then don’t be a disciple, but rather to know ourselves and what we must likely have to sacrifice in our pursuit for God so that we don;t just give up halfway but will complete it.
Edward

======= Angelo:

I agree with you on the sanctification perspective, because sanctification means “set apart.” So when we are sanctified, we are set apart for God’s own use. Now when we sin, we are no longer set apart from the world, because that is the world’s trademark…sin. So God does indeed bring us back to Him and sets us apart from the world when we confess our sins and repent (not just saying sorry, but also turning from our sinful ways). “If my people, who are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.” 2 Chronicles 7:14 God is faithful to heal us and cleanse us from all unrighteousness, if we approach Him humbly with a broken heart. “The LORD is near to those who have a broken heart, and saves such as have a contrite spirit.” Psalm 34:18 And after He reconciles us back to Him, He prevents us from falling again. “Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy.” Jude 1:24
I also enjoyed the part of us giving to others who cannot repay us back. We are supposed to be godly and take on our perfect Heavenly Father’s attributes. There is nothing that He does for us that we can repay Him back for (I think God says something like that in Job 37 or 38, but I can’t find it). He does this to simply show His love to us and reveal His glory through us. Now, we should also look to do things for people who are not in a position to pay us back, to simply reflect the love of God that He shines on us.
Angelo

======= Jenny:

“And anyone who does not carry his cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.”
what does this mean? This means self denial…dying to the flesh. We need to do this every day! You dont just get saved and then thats it, we need to walk in the spirit if we are to be effective.
“Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires” Gal. 5:24
“But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh in regard to its lusts.” Romans 13:14
“I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me, and delivered Himself up for me .” Gal 2:20-21
Wow, those are some heavy verses, guess we should wait til we get there, but it relates to picking up our cross. To my flesh, this sounds completely impossible! BUt when I deny the flesh…or my nature, and put on the Lord Jesus Christ, He enables me to do all things, for its Him who does the work in me, not me. Its a power not our own. He will transform us and guide us in a way that is supernatural through the power of the spirit those things which we cannot do on our own. Allow the spirit to infiltrate you and pour out His essence into you, fill you up. first we must empty ourselves and there is strong opposition to this! but once we pierce that, or put a nail in our flesh, it dies and we can be led by the spirit. we dont wake up in the spirit, or at least i dont. we cant just trust that we will always be in the spirit, its an act we must take everyday. It can really be a battle too, but its a battle that we can win bcos Christ gave us that victory when He took up the cross, when He took the nails. He took it in our place that we may have life, a new life in the spirit. The life in the flesh is miserable. Notice when you have mountain top experiences, you just never want it to end…it doesnt have to. The spirit is there for the taking, we must be open and willing to empty ourselves out.
“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.” Matt 7:7-8.
This doesnt mean ask for that new car and its yours. Ask for the spirit, ask for spiritual gifts, ask for the Lord’s power, ask for wisdom, ask for anything of God and it will be yours. Ask for the spirit to fill you and you will receive. Its an awesome promise we have and so incredible to know we dont have to go in this alone. We have the spirit, also called, the Helper, the Comforter…I like that! I need all the help and comfort I can get!
Jenny

======= Lisa:

Being together! That is what Jesus wants. One as He and The Father are One.
Taking our two teenage sons to carpool this morning, I told them that I had forgotten my Driver’s License on Wednesday when I went to pick them up from school. I immediately felt closer to Jesus and to them.
Did I have to tell them that? Well, after Jesus told me to, I did. I think just sharing things and confessing who you really are brings you closer to God and to others. And I believe that somewhere down the line, this simple confession will help me just because I did not keep it to myself.
Lisa

======= Art:

Amen, Lisa. God lives in relationships and in our openness and honesty (to ourselves, to others and to Him).
One of the things that struck me about today’s reading was the metaphorical similarity between Josh 3:3-4 and how Christ leads the way for us:
“…move out from your positions and follow [the ark of the LORD]. Then you will know which way to go, since you have never been this way before.”
We are called to “move out” from what may be a comfortable ‘camp’ in this world and trust in where God is leading us. As in that long-ago crossing of a geographic river, Christ reassures us that when we cross the ultimate river (death) – by definition a way we have never been before – and enter the good and bountiful land (heaven) that God has prepared for us (e.g., see John 14:1-4) we can have confidence that He has already crossed ahead of us and knows the way and that it is now, in Christ’s redeeming work on the cross, quite safe for those who have faith.
I was also struck by how closely Psalm 80 relates the story that Jesus would be part of many years later (v 8, 14-17):
“You brought a vine out of Egypt… watch over this vine, the root of your right hand has planted, the son you have raised up for yourself… Let your hand rest on the man at your right hand, the son of man you have raised up for yourself.”
(‘Son’ and ‘Son of Man’ are not capitalized in my NIV, but it’s not hard to see the significance of the passage if one does that.)
Have a blessed day, everyone!
Art

======= Jim:

Do you know what your cross is? Do you want to know?
IMHO, instead of the “gifts” classes so popular today (proven to be wholly unreliable not to mention the only identified “gifts” are seemingly the gifts of casserole and back patting – no one is ever told they have prophecy, tongues, healing, etc), churches would be far more relevant is they had cross classes. Alas, the complete and total lack of cross classes (please, someone correct me if they’ve ever been to a cross class) would suggest that, in fact, no one wants to know (or to really be Christ’s disciple). Note, this is not about carrying Christ’s cross (to shoulder alone the full wrath of God’s anger for our sins) just as being a Christian isn’t about finding what’s easiest to do – or, in other words, the “color of our parachute” (whether, say, it’s to make casseroles or pat backs).
BUT, there is no greater question to be answered after we have accepted Christ – this is the starting point for the natural “what do I do now” question. Adam failed at this and so did not rebuke and teach Eve – thus, primary responsibility for sin entering the world did not fall on her (or Satan’s) shoulders, but his! Barna has suggested that what is wrong with our churches is that we consume religion like any other product (we like the music and new friends) while wholly fail to invest ourselves. I have asked over 100 people why they chose the church (#1 answer was the music) they go to and only 2 answered, “because God made it clear that I had a job to do here.”
Remember that Jesus’ parting words to the crowd he said this to was to keep their saltiness. Look at verses 34-35: “Salt is good, but if it loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is fit neither for the soil nor for the manure pile; it is thrown out.” Let us pray the Holy Spirit may instead help us to make it our life goal to carry our personal cross and follow Jesus. There are four parts of an honest apology: 1) name, 2) magic word (like sorry), 3) what you did wrong, AND 4) what you can do to make it up as well as your plan to stop sinning in the future (or, At-One-Ment). Without change, even a “good” cry is actually bad for us (science shows this). We only generate 1 year of Christian experience 30 times over while we grow older but never up.
Jim

======= Elizabeth:

Hello All,
I’ve always liked the story in Luke about the banquet and the last minute guests. I love that our Lord is always about the unlikely and unexpected.
Elizabeth

======= Mick:

I was impressed with today’s Old Testament reading. It is an awesome story – how God held back the waters for the Israelites to cross, but I was impressed more by what wasn’t said. At the Red Sea the people were grumbling and complaining constantly it seemed, but now, standing at the Jordan, we do not get any indication that there was any grumbling by the Israeilites. Forty years wandering in the desert had prepared them now for this moment. They had matured and had been humbled before God; they now knew what it meant to trust God and believe; they had learned to respect those in leadership, etc. They were now ready to cross into the Promised Land.
Mick

======= Teriann:

Mick, I like that, God has a preparation process to get us ready for great things. At the time, though, it may seem that He has forgotten us and let us wander around with no real direction. It is so nice that we can read the whole story from beginning to end and get the big picture. Thanks for pointing that out.
In Joshua 3:11&13, mentions the ark of covenant of the Lord of all the earth. I immediately thought of Rahab’s words yesterday when she said, “the Lord your God is God in heaven above and on the earth below.” I did a very quick word study (and please correct me if I’m wrong) but I think this is the first time where we see God called the God of ALL the earth instead of the God of Abraham or the God of the Israelites. At this significant point of crossing over into the promised land it seems to be an important president to establish.
Well this is just a thought and I would love to hear anyone’s thoughts, I have to get to church.
Teriann

======= David:

Thinking about the “purification” that you brought up for sanctification, I’m reminded of the story where Jesus washed the disciples’ feet.
“Jesus replied, “Unless I wash you, you won’t belong to me. Simon Peter exclaimed, “Then wash my hands and head as well, Lord, not just my feet!” Jesus replied, “A person who has bathed all over does not need to wash, except for the feet,[c] to be entirely clean. And you disciples are clean, but not all of you.” John 13:8-11
I want you to know I greatly appreciate your work on this blog and I hope it continues for many years.
David

======= Mary:

For me, to “carry my cross” means that Jesus wants me to die to my own selfish desires. In Galatians 2:20, Paul says, “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me.” When we “carry our cross,” we die to self-centeredness, and strive to live a God-centered life.
Mary

======= Patty:

Still love reading through the bible. I wanted you to know that I really appreciate the music clip that you put in with the scriptures. May God bless you and blessings to all who take part in reading the Word of God! Love,
Patty

======= Marabel:

I couldn’t agree more with your comments on purifying ourselves through confession of our sins. How else can we have fellowship with the Spirit? One of the titles of Christ that helps me to remember Who He is and what He sees in me is: Young stag, Song 2:9. “My beloved is like a gazelle or a young stag. Behold, he is standing behind our wall, he is looking through the windows, he is peering through the lattice.
Marabel

======= Sherie:

K-Love has ministered to me so much over the years. Music speaks to my soul!!
Sherie

======= LaRhonda:

I believe that the purification today has to do with us purfying our minds.Romans 12:1 We do this by transforming our thinking. By being ready to recieve , “God’s way of doing things”
LaRhonda

======= Mitch:

Great Reading for today. I also am a frequent KLOVE listener it is really my relationship with God also, because of the same thing you mentioned in your post about thinking about X, Y or Z and then a song coming up and worshiping God. : ) God Bless you
Mitch

======= Grant:

Thanks for you blog, Mike. -always an encouragement.
-Grant

======= Bob:

As I reflect on personal thoughts about Crossing the Jordan in Joshua 3 and 4 I’d like to share them with you. 3:1 “Early in the morning”: It suggests that when I take on new endeavors or am about to start a new journey it is important to get an early start. It seems like whenever I go on holiday I always have to catch a 5am Flight! (Chuckle). 3:5 “Consecrate yourselves”: To me this simply means to set aside all worries. Yah, I know that is not easy at times but we all have methods of doing that and a lot are suggested in our commentaries. 3:6 “went ahead of them”: Re: Deut 31:8 tells us that the Lord goes ahead of us. I love when Jesus says this to his disciples in Math 26:32 and then keeps his promise in Luke 24:15 on the road to Emmaus. 4:8 “stand in the river” Well here we see what our job is as he gives us the example in Act 5:20. Tell the people the full message of this new life! 4:3, 4:5-7, 4:21 Those very important stones in our life. Milestones! Times we need to mark our journey and remember important events with a heavy, physical, intentional marker. Birth, Baptism, Marriage, Graduation, Driver’s license. Of course the importance of these revolves around celebrating the memory. My favorite is “Coming Home Day”. Because my 5 kids were all adopted, every year we have a little family party in honor of when they came to live with us. To end I think it is interesting to note that in our reading today in Psalm 80 verses 8-11 we hear the plan God had for his people:
8 You took us like a grapevine dug from the soil of Egypt;
You forced out the nations and transplanted it in Your land.
9 You groomed the ground around it,
planted it so it would root deep into the earth, and it covered all the land.
10 As it grew, the mountains were blanketed by its shadow;
the mighty cedars were covered by its branches.
11 The plant extended its branches to the Mediterranean Sea,
and spread its shoots all the way to the Euphrates River.
Bob

======= Jill:

I heard if you do something for someone and expect something back it’s business. If you do something for someone and don’t expect anything back it’s kindness.
Klove is a wonderful radio ministry! Listening to christian radio really brings one into a realm with Jesus. It takes our focus off our problems and bring us into a closer relationship with God!
Jill

======= Joyce:

Mike and everyone,
Mike, thank you for bringing up the question: “is purification needed?”
Your question led me to look up sermons/commentary about having a pure heart before God.
came across this story (source: Matt Slick, Sermon: Psalm 51, A broken and contrite heart, Christian Apologetics and Research Ministry):
“When he was just 19, Al Johnson had joined two other men in robbing a Kansas bank. The case was closed after the two other criminals were killed in an auto crash and were mistakenly identified by bank officials as the robbers. Al felt sure he would never be caught. He married a Christian girl and even pretended to be a Christian. She knew nothing of his past crime. Then someone sent him a tract in the mail entitled, ‘God’s Plan of Salvation.’ Reading it, he noticed the Bible verse that said, ‘whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.’ The realization struck that salvation was for him. He could be forgiven and his conscience set free. The guilt of his crime accused him, the cowardice of hiding his crime shamed him. He realized his guilt and hated it.
Al Johnson became convicted of sin, was contrite, humbled his heart and decided to truly forsake his sin and to follow Jesus Christ. When he did, his life changed. He stopped a lifelong habit of lying and cheating. And after much thought and prayer he confessed his crime. His confession made television newscasts and newspaper headlines.
As it turned out, under a Kansas statute of limitations, he was set free.
Yet, although he was beyond the scope of law to punish him, he still chose to repay his share of the stolen funds to the bank. In time he became the manager of a service station, the father of three admiring children, and an outstanding Christian layman. But he didn’t do that alone.”
10 Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.
11 Do not cast me away from Your presence and do not take Your Holy Spirit from me.
12 Restore to me the joy of Your salvation and sustain me with a willing spirit. (Psalm 51:10-12)
Mike, as you said, may we have “No dark corners. No secrets. Just a pure heart before our heavenly Father.” pray in our Lord’s name, amen.
Sincerely,
Joyce

========= Ed:

I too am always conscious of the thought of purification. We sin constantly and must repent and be aware of our sins to be purified at the end of the day. I also think of when we take the sacraments. We must be purified before we partake.
Ed

======= Dee:

I love the book of Joshua..he definitely was confident and God picked a good leader. Or predecessor. Moses will be missed sure. I love KLOVE love the ministry and have supported them in past. Definitely worth the support. Love book of Luke too.
I try to pick up and carry cross daily..not perfect and still trying to work out a few areas but God is good and he perfects that which is flawed..for His glory. Amen
Dee

======= Robert:

Luke 14:27
“And anyone who does not carry his cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.”
(Also found in Mathew 16:24). This verse has always been a bit hard for me to grasp. I think others may have the same problem. I understand the cross Jesus had to carry, literally and spiritually. However, what is he saying to us? So, I googled it. A couple of examples of a burden or trial one must put up with, as in Alzheimer’s is a cross to bear for the whole family, or in a lighter vein, Mowing that huge lawn once a week is Brad’s cross to bear. So I tried to relate this to my own life’s challenges that in some way make it hard for me to follow Jesus and what sort of cost is involved with being a disciple? Here is the difficult part. I have to balance my family with this personal passionate devotion to a person (Jesus). Fortunately knowing Jesus makes this rather simple but I run the risk of using him as a principle and then prioritizing him becomes an issue. This simple verse is not so simple. It really speaks to the question I have to ask myself, who am I and who do I want to be?
Robert

======= Ramona:

Mike your question, >>The first thought comes to mind that we are of course purified today completely by the blood of Christ. But, then, I also know that once we have made the decision to follow Christ we will still sin on occasion. And then, is purification needed? >>
My answer–Just the Word, just the Word ma’m (A take from the Cop Show Dragnet’s “Just the facts, just the facts ma’m”–Sorry)
If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us. (1 John 1:8-10 KJVR).
Many of us confess–but we don’t hang around for the cleansing–it is a multipart process. Also, there is a difference from living in sin and “falling” or tripping into sin, just as there is a difference telling a lie and being a liar. One is an event or maybe multiple events the other is a lifestyle choice.
Joshua 3:1-4:24:16
More Ramblings from my readings in Joshua:
O.K. The river is at flood stage and I’m not sure what that would look like with this particular river. I do know that the Jordon is dirty, full of silt, and not very wide in many places. The closer the Jordan gets to the Dead Sea the slower it runs; but what does it look like when it is flooded? I have never been affected by a flooded river; although I have been affected by water main breaks in New York City, but still that is not a flood. I have seen video footage of swollen rivers washing away dirt, houses, cars and people as it rushes down and overflows its banks. Caught up in raging waters must be frightening, yet God tells the priests who are responsible for carrying the Ark to step into the waters, they have to get their feet wet.
Not only does God tell them to step in, the water stops flowing when they get in, but upstream. Now, I don’t know if this is true but I’ve heard that the place where the water was damned up is about 80 miles upstream from where the priest stood. So how long would it take for the last of the flowing water to reach them?
So we have the priests standing in the Jordan, carrying a box made from Acacia Wood, wood that is very dense and heavy, which is overlaid with gold, making it heaver, and has as a lid, a solid gold cover with two gold Cherubim with large wings. These guys had to be buffed to carry that box around in the desert for 40 years.
Step in the water, the priests were commanded, time to get your feet wet, so that the people could walk on dry land. At the beginning of their journey, the water of the Red Sea parted and everyone walked on dry land, but now they had to get their feet wet. It seems that when I first accepted salvation, many things happened that were unbelievable, without any input on my part, but then …that stopped. I now have to engage with the “enemy,” I have to hold on, hang in there, and believe that God has my back when circumstances say otherwise. My Red Sea experiences had me walking on dry ground, but to get out of the wilderness I had to get my feet wet. It was the stepping in that caused the river upstream to stop running and I had to wait for it to get to where I was.
Respect the leadership over you wherever you choose to worship. If you cannot, find a new place. Those who lead you are stepping in the water, getting their feet wet, so you can walk on dry land.
Grace and peace,
Ramona

======= John:

Luke 14
Luke writes of “hate” regarding family, yet Matthew speaks of it in terms of love.
Matt 10 37-38
“Anyone who loves his father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; anyone who loves his son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me; and anyone who does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me.”
Did Luke get it wrong? No, and I think Bob in the bible.org commentary gives a good explanation of this comparative concept.
Luke also says one has to hate – “yes, even his own life”. The word for life in Greek is “psuche”. It does not mean your daily or outward life, it goes much deeper. The word is defined as ‘your essence or your soul’. You are to hate what you are inside – one who is turned away from God, whose very essence is “sin”.
The whole extended family is listed here – so I agree with Bob I do not think it means hate each and every one – but like “life” they are to hate the essence of the family, the dependance on family instead of God. The Jewish family provided status, security, and a false assurance of salvation (Bob’s list) – hate these things. If you do not you can not be Jesus’ disciple. You must depend on Jesus.
As to the rest of the reading in Luke, Bob says it nicely:
“Our Lord is not trying to get these followers to muster up enough commitment to become His disciples, but to reckon with the reality that no one has the resources to follow Him, apart from His enablement. Discipleship, then, is not following Christ with sufficient means to do what He commands, but with utter dependence upon Him to enable us to do His will.”
If we try to go it alone after salvation: without prayer, without the “Word”, without worship, – without dependance on Christ – then we will flame out. The “World” (non-Christians) loves this as there is nothing so open to contempt and judgment as a half-hearted Christian.
John

======= Vance:

CLEANSING, PURITY has ALWAYS come by grace. The role of the law has always been the same in OT and NT: to lead us to grace by showing us our sins and failings.
HASHEM — the highest name for God in the Torah, that is the GOD OF MERCY — does
this out of His rich mercy!
Thus, when OT sacrifices were given, those with perceptive hearts in worship knew that they were not saved through their works of obedience. They knew they were able to worship God and have a relationship with God only because of the sacrifice offered in their place.
MERCY… GRACE
This brings me to a comment by J. Hampton Keathley, III , Th.M. on the following verses in Joshua 3 (NKJV):
7
And the LORD said to Joshua, “This day I will begin to exalt you in the sight of all Israel, that they may know that, as I was with Moses, so I will be with you.
8
You shall command the priests who bear the ark of the covenant, saying, ‘When you have come to the edge of the water of the Jordan, you shall stand in the Jordan.’”
9
So Joshua said to the children of Israel, “Come here, and hear the words of the LORD your God.”
10
And Joshua said, “By this you shall know that the living God is among you, and that He will without fail drive out from before you the Canaanites and the Hittites and the Hivites and the Perizzites and the Girgashites and the Amorites and the Jebusites: 11
Behold, the ark of the covenant of the Lord of all the earth is crossing over before you into the Jordan. 12
Now therefore, take for yourselves twelve men from the tribes of Israel, one man from every tribe.
13
And it shall come to pass, as soon as the soles of the feet of the priests who bear the ark of the LORD, the Lord of all the earth, shall rest in the waters of the Jordan, that the waters of the Jordan shall be cut off, the waters that come down from upstream, and they shall stand as a heap.”
Comment by J. Hampton Keathley, III , Th.M. :
“These verses in essence reinforce the concept of grace. They show that crossing the Jordan and dispossessing the enemies (as in all aspects of our salvation and sanctification) is the work of God.”
HOW TRUE!
We need to walk in the authority of Christ. We already have the authority of Christ invested in us personally by the Father and the Son.
We already have the Holy Spirit.
Now is our time to not only have our spirits birthed in this reality, but the rest of our beings as well.
Luke 14 (NKJV)
33
So likewise, whoever of you does not forsake all that he has cannot be My disciple.
For the past few months, I had the extremely high honor of going through strict discipline of theatrical rehearsals for a theatrical Easter performance.
This last weekend, April 7 through 9, I was able to take on the role of one of the characters.
The worship leader who wrote the play emphasized
the importance of WORSHIP during acting. It is ALL about worshipping through the medium of theatre and leading others to God AS THEY JOIN US IN WORSHIP.
He emphasized that, while the roles of the characters can and must be acted out with skill — THE WORSHIP CANNOT BE AN ACT. It must be real.
~~~
My only point is this: I had to give myself COMPLETELY to learn the lines and to become another character.
In like manner, we also need to give ourselves COMPLETELY to the Lord to “learn our lines” and to become the people God created us to be.
FORSAKE… receive cleansing… in GRACE.
~~~
The process of acting and becoming a character who came to the Lord in the play showed me there are two (2) kinds of acting:
1)
acting: pretense, to lie to try to deceive
2)
acting: to take on a role, to learn that role, TO BECOME.
We are CALLED TO BECOME, and we– through grace– are able to PRACTICE.
PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT
Ephesians 4 (NKJV)
22
that YOU PUT OFF, concerning your former conduct, the old man which grows corrupt according to the deceitful lusts,
23
and be renewed in the spirit of your mind,
24
and that YOU PUT ON the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness.
Hebrews 5 (NKJV)
13
For everyone who partakes only of milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, for he is a babe.
14
But solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those WHO BY REASON OF {note: CONSTANT} USE {i.e., PRACTICE}
have their senses exercised {i.e., TRAINED} to discern both good and evil.
Hebrews 6 (NKJV)
11
And we desire that each one of you show the same diligence to the full assurance of hope until the end,
12
that you do not become sluggish, but IMITATE THOSE
who through faith and patience inherit the promises.
Vance