Old Testament - Okay - I have a temporary new favorite verse in the Bible! Today in First Samuel chapter 10 verse 22 when they were about to name Saul king, but they couldn't find him: "So they asked the LORD, "Where is he?" And the LORD replied, "He is hiding among the baggage."" That is awesome! I really appreciate the fact that Saul was hiding among the baggage. :) I think that's where I would be too. I hope I would be in any case. I think it's a bit scary when someone is too lustful for power. Better to have your future king hiding in the baggage... :)
(sorry, couldn't resist this photo... :) I suppose this image below would be more appropriate for Saul being named king as we read in verse 24: "Then Samuel said to all the people, "This is the man the LORD has chosen as your king. No one in all Israel is his equal!" And all the people shouted, "Long live the king!"
In First Samuel chapter 11 we see Saul really step into his role as king by defending the city of Jabesh-gilead from the Ammonites attack. Verse 2 was sad to consider when the Ammonite king said this to the citizens of Jabesh-gilead - ""All right," Nahash said, "but only on one condition. I will gouge out the right eye of every one of you as a disgrace to all Israel!"" Gouging out the right eye would be done for humiliation purposes - but also to destroy the military ability of the archers. After this point, Saul gets word back in his hometown that Jabesh-gilead is under attack. Below is a powerful painting by the artist James Tissot from the year 1896 of verses 6 & 7: "Then the Spirit of God came powerfully upon Saul, and he became very angry. 7 He took two oxen and cut them into pieces and sent the messengers to carry them throughout Israel with this message: “This is what will happen to the oxen of anyone who refuses to follow Saul and Samuel into battle!”"
I was impressed with Saul's graciousness in verses 12 & 13 of this chapter: "Then the people exclaimed to Samuel, "Now where are those men who said Saul shouldn't rule over us? Bring them here, and we will kill them!" But Saul replied, "No one will be executed today, for today the LORD has rescued Israel!" Impressive. You could see where after defeating the Ammonites, Israel's adrenaline might be running high to go after dissenters. Saul put a stop to it, which was impressive. What about us today? When we are riding high on a victory of some sort and the group around us says we should forge ahead on something that does not seem right, can we stand up and say "No" to the group as Saul did on this day?
Bible.org's commentary on today's readings in 1 Samuel titled "The Making of Israel's First King" is at this link.
New Testament - Okay, so John chapter 6 verses 53 through 58 are some verses that get interpreted several different ways - some saying these verses speak of the Lord's Supper and some saying they speak only of faith in Jesus because the Lord's Supper had not yet been instituted by Jesus at this time. I think the key for us to focus on is that Jesus is our nourishment - our literal spiritual food if we have faith in him. It is interesting to note that many disciples turned away from Jesus after this teaching. I love Peter's reply to Jesus in verses 68 & 69 after Jesus asks if the Twelve will leave too - "Simon Peter replied, "Lord, to whom would we go? You alone have the words that give eternal life. We believe them, and we know you are the Holy One of God."" True words indeed Peter. True words indeed. If not Jesus, to whom would you go? Does anyone else have the words that give eternal life?
Bible.org's commentary on John chapter 6 today titled "The Bread of Life" is at this link.
Psalms - Psalm 107 today is a wonderful Psalm of thanksgiving! Okay, be honest, who started busting out singing the Michael W. Smith/Chris Tomlin worship tune "Forever" when you read verse 1? - "Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good! His faithful love endures forever." I did! That's a great tune... based on a great verse in a great Psalm.
Psalm 107 repeats a verse four times - starting with verse 6 here - ""LORD, help!" they cried in their trouble, and he rescued them from their distress." (then see verse 13, verse 19, and verse 28 - same verse) This is a great reminder to pray - and yes, it's great to pray during times of distress of course. But, how about praying during times of happiness & joy? Or even times of just regular blahs? I recently read much of the book "The Life You've Always Wanted" by John Ortberg (great book!), and it has a great chapter on prayer. It is so true that one of the best ways to truly know and love God is through prayer. Simple prayer. 5 minutes a day. Do you pray to God 5 minutes a day? When the storms of life come, do you cry out for help to Jesus? Do you know that he will always be there for you in the midst of the storm?
Proverbs - Proverbs chapter 15 verse 1 is so so so very true... we would all do well to practice this every day - "A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare." How beautifully true & wise this is? Let us be gentle people...
Worship Video: Today's Psalm and Proverb reminds me of Michael W. Smith's classic song "Friends:"
Please join us in memorizing and meditating on a verse of Scripture today:"Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever." Psalm 107:1 NIV
Prayer Point: Pray thanksgiving to God for His goodness today! Pray thanksgiving that God's love endures forever!
Comments from You & Questions of the Day: If someone were to describe you, would they describe you as a "gentle" person? Would you want to be described as a gentle person? Should we be gentle all of the time? Was Jesus gentle all of the time? Was Jesus gentle most of the time? To whom or in what circumstances was Jesus not gentle? Should we follow Jesus in this regard? 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:
1 Samuel 10-11-15
Today’s Old Testament reading made me very sad and I’m not really sure why. I think it may have something to do with the people rejecting God as their king and thinking that a “man” can give them what they want. Don’t we do the same thing today? We put our hopes and desires in spouses, children, politicians and vain philosophies. The arm of man will fail us and has failed us yet we continue to look for a “man” who is “head and shoulders” above everyone else to guide us instead of looking toward the Creator of heaven and earth. Israel exchanged her God for one of flesh and blood. She desired to look to toward one who was created instead of the Creator, how said.
John 6:43-71
A sad, sad, sad state of affairs, the crowd that followed Jesus because He fed them is now turning from Him because He tells them that the food and drink they need to take in is not the fare they are looking for.
In reading through Jesus’ discourses with the crowd and his disciples, it appears to me that very few came out and said to him, “Look Master, please break it down for us, we don’t understand what you are saying.” Most of the time those in the crowds, His disciples included, just tried to guess and reason in their own minds what He meant. I think pride keeps us from asking Jesus questions; from asking God, “What does this mean?” especially when we are in a crowd. We don’t want others to think we are stupid.
I think this very thing is happening with us today regarding Jesus. The key to getting understanding is seeking, knocking and asking continually, but we either grow weary or we try to “Fake it ‘till we make it,” trying to impress the throngs around us. God knows we don’t impress Him with our fake knowledge.
On another note there is something very interesting in Peter’s response to Jesus when He asks the twelve, “Are you going to leave, too?” (Verse 67). This question requires one of two one-word sentences, “Yes” or “No.” Peter gives a story in his response,
68 …Lord, to whom would we go? You alone have the words that give eternal life. 69 We believe them, and we know you are the Holy One of God."
Peter’s response tells us that he was surly thinking of “booking out” (leaving) on Jesus. Be careful how you respond to questions that require one-word answers, you will tell on yourself.
Psalm 107 This is a “Testimony” Psalm. We overcome by the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony. (Rev. 12:11) Truly this song is one that should be read when we are down in the dumps and think God has abandoned us.
Proverbs 15:1-3 2 The wise person makes learning a joy; fools spout only foolishness.
This little Proverb should be studied and adhered to by everyone who wants to be a teacher, in my humble opinion.
Grace and peace, Ramona
====
There was a time when Israel rejected God and replaced Him with man made gods,when the time for war came,God said"let your gods save you".Now we see God again being rejected yet this time,he gives Israel what they ask for...a king.To them,he looked the part...Handsome,tall and his father was a man of valour.Compared to Jesus who is said to have had nothing majestic about him...nothing to attract...came from the home of a poor carpenter.True,the things that are seen are temporal.Today we don't hear about Saul but we sing about Jesus...and we hear about David.Guess it would be good to see why as we read on.I wonder sometimes why God this time didn't get angry at Israel's rejection but shows love and protection.True His thoughts and ways are beyond our comprehesion(unless he chooses to reveal it to us).It is good to seek the will of God because even if we do get what we want,in the end we realise it wasn't worth it.
The link Mike provided showed something about Saul I never thought about...1)it was his servant not Saul who had the idea to seek out Samuel..2)Saul after being appointed in front of Israel,went back home to continue farming... My conclusions...Saul didn't really have seeking God on his agenda...well that could have repercursions right?
God bless you all
Anka
====
Psalm 107: 23They that go down to the sea in ships, that do business in great waters;
24These see the works of the LORD, and his wonders in the deep.
25For he commandeth, and raiseth the stormy wind, which lifteth up the waves thereof.
26They mount up to the heaven, they go down again to the depths: their soul is melted because of trouble.
27They reel to and fro, and stagger like a drunken man, and are at their wit's end.
28Then they cry unto the LORD in their trouble, and he bringeth them out of their distresses.
29He maketh the storm a calm, so that the waves thereof are still.
30Then are they glad because they be quiet; so he bringeth them unto their desired haven.
For me this is yet another of David's prophetic points where he reveals the very Lordship of Jesus to us long before He walked on water and stilled the storms of the disciples - this for me is such an awesome revelation of Jesus' power in advance - yet even with presumably knowledge of this Psalm, the disciples still weren't overly convinced even after Jesus did indeed calm the storm. But as Mike also pointed out, we shouldn't wait until our own storms to praise Him for what He can do, but rather continue to praise Him for what He has already or is continuing to do in our lives. Storms are but a test of how well we've listened to what He's taught us thus far, and how much have we understood about His revelation to us of Who He is! There's a wealth of difference in knowing about Him to actually knowing Him personally. And sometimes He will use some pretty major storms in our lives to keep reminding us of that fact, and to push us into sticking closer to Him than ever. Blessings, Romayne
====
Reading Psalm 107 I was struck by the phrase, "his love endures forever." The word endure stood out so I looked it up in a dictionary. The definition is, to carry on despite hardships, to bear with tolerance, to suffer patiently without yielding. How luck I am that God loves me, "his love endures forever." When I make it hard for him to love me, he is tolerant and he loves me with all his patience and without yielding. WOW.
JD
====
Jesus was not gentle when it came to making God's temple into a den of thieves. He overturned their tables and chased the livestock and vendors out of the Lord's house of prayer.
I need to keep the proverb in mind all the time.. a gentle answer turns away wrath.. I have times when my mouth runs away with me at full volumn only for me to regret my foolishness. Thank God for being patient with me.
Love y'all Pam
====
It is so true that one of the best ways to truly know and love God is through prayer. Simple prayer. 5 minutes a day. Do you pray to God 5 minutes a day? When the storms of life come, do you cry out for help to Jesus? Do you know that he will always be there for you in the midst of the storm? ~ It is defenitly true that one of the besst ways to truly know and love God is through prayers. It makes me feel so close to God when I pray. When I talk to Him, ask Him things, praise Him, talk in tongues to Him. I'm still in a learning process to pray good. I have my prayers in the morning at home, I'm trying to get my schedule like that so I can join prayermeetings in the morning at church. In the morning I pray about 15 minutes, in the afternoon 30 minutes up till 45 minutes and in the evening 15 minutes again. That's what I do on a regular daily basis. Of course I have my quiet-times with God when I have specific things. Storms of life or just to thank Him for saving my life. I do believe that He is always there, no matter what.
If someone were to describe you, would they describe you as a "gentle" person? Would you want to be described as a gentle person? ~ Hmmm ... they probably would not describe me as a gentle person. I know I'm not gentle. I'm kind and have a big heart, but I don't think that's to describe as gentle. Jesus wasn't gentle all the time, He could be hard to the people that needed someone to stand up to them. Jesus was always right and had reasons to be hard to some people. He wasn't hard to punish people, but to open their eyes. He was never unreasonable.
I think we always have to follow Jesus in what He did and what He does. Jesus is how we are suppose to be.
Mae
====
Some passages that stood out: 1 Sam 10:6-7 "and you will be changed into a different person. Once these signs are fulfilled, do whatever your hand finds to do, for God is with you."
Saul hiding among the baggage was very humorous!
John 6:44 "No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him."
Ps. 107:1 "Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever." (I'm singing it!)
Prov. 15:1 "1 A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." --This for sure have I found to be true!!
Jenny
====
When Jesus spoke of eating His body and drinking His blood, many people of that time thought he was talking about cannibalism. I guess if you did not understand that Jesus is the Son of God, and that by following Him and putting your trust in Him you are saved and receive eternal life, you might think just that.
I remember many years ago when I first read these versus I too had a moment of discus about the thought of eating human flesh and drinking human blood, but thankfully the spirit explained these passages to me. I believe that what is meant by eating His body and drinking His blood is that we should follow Him, believe in Him, put our entire trust in Him and live our lives by His example. His flesh and blood are His word and teaching and we should take in and digest every word. By doing so, we will have eternal life. What a wonderful promise!
************************************************************************************* I would have to say that I’m fairly sure that people would describe me as gentle. I think Jesus was gentle most of the time. Two incidents I can think of in the Bible when He wasn’t so gentle was when He entered the temple and threw out the money changers; Matthew 21:12; “12 Jesus entered the temple area and drove out all who were buying and selling there. He overturned the tables of the money changers and the benches of those selling doves.” (NIV) Jesus was not gentle that day, and rightfully so. People were desecrating His father’s house. Another moment when I don’t think Jesus was gentle was when He rebuked Peter in Matthew 16:23; “23 Jesus turned and said to Peter, "Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind the things of God, but the things of men." (NIV), and in Mark 8:33; 33 “But when Jesus turned and looked at his disciples, he rebuked Peter.”Get behind me, Satan!" he said. "You do not have in mind the things of God, but the things of men." I tend to like the way Mark tells this story; it shows me that Jesus was not gentle when it came to people not worshipping His father in Heaven.
Yours in Christ Skip
====
The Old & New Testament readings - Both readings showed me how we humans call upon God for leadership. When the leader is given (Old Testament - Saul, Israel's first King; in the New Testament - Jesus, our Messiah), there are those who truly follow these leaders and others can not follow all the way. This is very true even today. The choice is ours, follow who God sent to us or follow the world's calling. Tough especially these days.
I think I am both gentle & at the same time capable of harsh words Mike. I believe everybody is capable of being harsh some time or another. This world considers gentleness as a sign of weakness. The world teaches assertiveness and self confidence. People feel that one can not be successful or prove their point in this world, if one is gentle & meek. This is contrary to Jesus teachings. This reminds me of this individual (a Christian)who calls me goody two shoes (not a complimentary statement I suppose). I suppose because she has not seen my harsh side. To make the long story short, in an instance when I apologized for not being able to help in her project in church, she started lashing with her sharp tongue in front of the group. At that time I was deeply hurt and embarrassed. How could an apology resulted in harsh words. Sometimes when we are frustated we lash at the person who just happens to be around us or the weakest person. How many times do we lash out on our family when something was wrong at work, etc. For a while I could not look at the group. However, she behaves that nothing happened. I must be a very sensitive person and not used to chastising people in public. I decided to pray for my relationship with her. Since she does not drive, she calls me from time to time give her a ride. Everything is fine with us now. I suppose we, out of frustration are harsh in our words. I pray that God will guard my tongue all the time. This does not mean though that I should be a punching bag for others. I am sure I have offended, hurt others unintentionally or intentionally but I try not to humiliate others in public especially my kids, friends or anybody.
Lily
====
1 Samuel 10: 15-16, 22
15 Saul’s uncle said, “Tell me what Samuel said to you.”
16 Saul replied, “He assured us that the donkeys had been found.” But he did not tell his uncle what Samuel had said about the kingship.
22 So they inquired further of the LORD, “Has the man come here yet?”
And the LORD said, “Yes, he has hidden himself among the supplies.”
I just wonder why Saul did not tell his uncle that Samuel anointed him king of Israel. These two verses together with verse 22, revealed that Saul might not be so 'used to' being the king of Israel. As Mike suggests, being humble or 'shy' is a good thing. At least you know that you can't do anything (especially a king) without God.
1 Samuel 11:7
7 He took a pair of oxen, cut them into pieces, and sent the pieces by messengers throughout Israel, proclaiming, “This is what will be done to the oxen of anyone who does not follow Saul and Samuel.” Then the terror of the LORD fell on the people, and they came out together as one.
Saul asked the Israeli to follow him and Samuel. At this point of time, Saul was still putting his spiritual adviser together with him (a political king). I believe this is important as Saul, the first king of Israel, fought and won because God was with him. Without God, he was doomed to failure.
John 6:53
53 Jesus said to them, “Very truly I tell you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you.
God clearly prohibited in the OT (e.g. Leviticus 7:26-27)and the NT (e.g. Acts 15:20) that we should not eat blood for life is in blood. But here in John 6:53, Jesus asked us to drink his blood. I am thinking if it is because drinking Jesus' blood, we are connected to his eternal life. What are your views?
Frederick
====
I believe I am a gentle person. Jesus was gentle. He never harmed anyone, just loved them, even the ones who betrayed him, and the ones who lkilled him. He was gentle vn spirit, and by nature I am as well. I have been betrayed, and abandoned by one I loved, but never had anger at him. I model myself after Jesus. I have died, and yet I live. My car accident killed me, but since God has more for me to accomplish here, I was resuscitated. I am much more spikritual since my accident. I know that God brought me through it, and enabled my brain to retain my intelligrence and enhanced my creativity. I am a child of God because of Jesus' sacrifice.
Karyn
====
Saul 1 Samuel 10
I think a character study of this guy would be fascinating. He has so many character traits that reflect on us all in some sort of fashion. In this reading as he is made the first elect King of Israel we see this wonderful modesty as he hides amongst the baggage as his kingship is declared. As time goes on he turns into a raving lunatic with his relationship with David. If Netflix existed at that time there would be hundreds of shows about the monarchy just like we see today in the countless shows about the Royals in England. Of course, a lot of nations go through their struggles and I think it is up to us to recognize whether or not they are in league with God or not. Just look at their coins. Look at the Mathew 22:21 verse. Is it Caesar or is it like in the USA which says, In God We Trust?
I think Ramona describes it well, “we just love Pomp and Circumstance, a king with all the regalia that goes with the job, over substance. We love emotion and sentiment as the king leads his troops and sits on his throne, but we hate the truth that the other King, God brings.”
John 6:43-71
Some tough teaching here by Jesus. Eternal life, flesh and blood, sheep and goats, decision making. I can see how some people have trouble with this stuff. Trying to explain it is even harder! Here is a thought. Verse 45 says, “Everyone who listens to the Father and learns from him comes to me.” That means if you are reading this it is because God is bringing you to this place at this time. Another thing in Verse 47, “I tell you the truth, he who believes has everlasting life.” What does that stir up in your heart and mind? It has been said those who pray for eternal life don’t know what to do on a wet Sunday.
Robert
====
Proverbs 15:1
A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.
I have always viewed this Proverb as the words out of our mouths to others, which it is, but I saw more this time. Last weekend I was deep in a pity party, angry about a perceived slight. I was grumbling to myself, feeling so hurt and angry. I sat down on the sidewalk to pull weeds and with one little movement pulled a muscle in my back. In the midst of my tears God spoke to my heart. "Didn't I tell you not to hold on to anger, it is not good for you". I suffered wrath in my own tense angry body.
Love and blessings, Jasanna
====
It is sad that mankind chooses man instead of God. Saul hadn't a faintest clue how to rule..thank the Lord God above He led. And the people just couldn't understand that with God you have all you will ever need.
John..6..I learned something today in reading. I forget at times that it's not just 12 that Jesus seeks out. There were many disciples to count. However when He spoke of eating of my flesh and drinketh of my blood..many turned away and stopped seeking or following him. How sad! However , I love Peter..this is a man so like mine .very outspoken, transparent..real. he was like, "Lord, where would we go? You are the Messiah, the Son of God" (paraphrasing) I love it 😀
Psalm 107..longer one..however many verses similar to favorite worship chords and Michael W Smith..absolute love! His voice is so anointed
Proverbs 15..gentleness. I am at times. I think of my kids nana..or my mother n law..very gentle. Granny..who is 93..gentle soul! Beautiful character
Dee
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1 Samuel 10-11-15
Today’s Old Testament reading made me very sad and I’m not really sure why. I think it may have something to do with the people rejecting God as their king and thinking that a “man” can give them what they want. Don’t we do the same thing today? We put our hopes and desires in spouses, children, politicians and vain philosophies. The arm of man will fail us and has failed us yet we continue to look for a “man” who is “head and shoulders” above everyone else to guide us instead of looking toward the Creator of heaven and earth. Israel exchanged her God for one of flesh and blood. She desired to look to toward one who was created instead of the Creator, how said.
John 6:43-71
A sad, sad, sad state of affairs, the crowd that followed Jesus because He fed them is now turning from Him because He tells them that the food and drink they need to take in is not the fare they are looking for.
In reading through Jesus’ discourses with the crowd and his disciples, it appears to me that very few came out and said to him, “Look Master, please break it down for us, we don’t understand what you are saying.” Most of the time those in the crowds, His disciples included, just tried to guess and reason in their own minds what He meant. I think pride keeps us from asking Jesus questions; from asking God, “What does this mean?” especially when we are in a crowd. We don’t want others to think we are stupid.
I think this very thing is happening with us today regarding Jesus. The key to getting understanding is seeking, knocking and asking continually, but we either grow weary or we try to “Fake it ‘till we make it,” trying to impress the throngs around us. God knows we don’t impress Him with our fake knowledge.
On another note there is something very interesting in Peter’s response to Jesus when He asks the twelve, “Are you going to leave, too?” (Verse 67). This question requires one of two one-word sentences, “Yes” or “No.” Peter gives a story in his response,
68 …Lord, to whom would we go? You alone have the words that give eternal life. 69 We believe them, and we know you are the Holy One of God."
Peter’s response tells us that he was surly thinking of “booking out” (leaving) on Jesus. Be careful how you respond to questions that require one-word answers, you will tell on yourself.
Psalm 107
This is a “Testimony” Psalm. We overcome by the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony. (Rev. 12:11) Truly this song is one that should be read when we are down in the dumps and think God has abandoned us.
Proverbs 15:1-3
2 The wise person makes learning a joy; fools spout only foolishness.
This little Proverb should be studied and adhered to by everyone who wants to be a teacher, in my humble opinion.
Grace and peace,
Ramona
====
There was a time when Israel rejected God and replaced Him with man made gods,when the time for war came,God said"let your gods save you".Now we see God again being rejected yet this time,he gives Israel what they ask for...a king.To them,he looked the part...Handsome,tall and his father was a man of valour.Compared to Jesus who is said to have had nothing majestic about him...nothing to attract...came from the home of a poor carpenter.True,the things that are seen are temporal.Today we don't hear about Saul but we sing about Jesus...and we hear about David.Guess it would be good to see why as we read on.I wonder sometimes why God this time didn't get angry at Israel's rejection but shows love and protection.True His thoughts and ways are beyond our comprehesion(unless he chooses to reveal it to us).It is good to seek the will of God because even if we do get what we want,in the end we realise it wasn't worth it.
The link Mike provided showed something about Saul I never thought about...1)it was his servant not Saul who had the idea to seek out Samuel..2)Saul after being appointed in front of Israel,went back home to continue farming...
My conclusions...Saul didn't really have seeking God on his agenda...well that could have repercursions right?
God bless you all
Anka
====
Psalm 107:
23They that go down to the sea in ships, that do business in great waters;
24These see the works of the LORD, and his wonders in the deep.
25For he commandeth, and raiseth the stormy wind, which lifteth up the waves thereof.
26They mount up to the heaven, they go down again to the depths: their soul is melted because of trouble.
27They reel to and fro, and stagger like a drunken man, and are at their wit's end.
28Then they cry unto the LORD in their trouble, and he bringeth them out of their distresses.
29He maketh the storm a calm, so that the waves thereof are still.
30Then are they glad because they be quiet; so he bringeth them unto their desired haven.
For me this is yet another of David's prophetic points where he reveals the very Lordship of Jesus to us long before He walked on water and stilled the storms of the disciples - this for me is such an awesome revelation of Jesus' power in advance - yet even with presumably knowledge of this Psalm, the disciples still weren't overly convinced even after Jesus did indeed calm the storm. But as Mike also pointed out, we shouldn't wait until our own storms to praise Him for what He can do, but rather continue to praise Him for what He has already or is continuing to do in our lives. Storms are but a test of how well we've listened to what He's taught us thus far, and how much have we understood about His revelation to us of Who He is! There's a wealth of difference in knowing about Him to actually knowing Him personally. And sometimes He will use some pretty major storms in our lives to keep reminding us of that fact, and to push us into sticking closer to Him than ever. Blessings, Romayne
====
Reading Psalm 107 I was struck by the phrase, "his love endures forever." The word endure stood out so I looked it up in a dictionary. The definition is, to carry on despite hardships, to bear with tolerance, to suffer patiently without yielding. How luck I am that God loves me, "his love endures forever." When I make it hard for him to love me, he is tolerant and he loves me with all his patience and without yielding. WOW.
JD
====
Jesus was not gentle when it came to making God's temple into a den of thieves. He overturned their tables and chased the livestock and vendors out of the Lord's house of prayer.
I need to keep the proverb in mind all the time.. a gentle answer turns away wrath.. I have times when my mouth runs away with me at full volumn only for me to regret my foolishness. Thank God for being patient with me.
Love y'all
Pam
====
It is so true that one of the best ways to truly know and love God is through prayer. Simple prayer. 5 minutes a day. Do you pray to God 5 minutes a day? When the storms of life come, do you cry out for help to Jesus? Do you know that he will always be there for you in the midst of the storm? ~ It is defenitly true that one of the besst ways to truly know and love God is through prayers. It makes me feel so close to God when I pray. When I talk to Him, ask Him things, praise Him, talk in tongues to Him. I'm still in a learning process to pray good. I have my prayers in the morning at home, I'm trying to get my schedule like that so I can join prayermeetings in the morning at church. In the morning I pray about 15 minutes, in the afternoon 30 minutes up till 45 minutes and in the evening 15 minutes again. That's what I do on a regular daily basis. Of course I have my quiet-times with God when I have specific things. Storms of life or just to thank Him for saving my life. I do believe that He is always there, no matter what.
If someone were to describe you, would they describe you as a "gentle" person? Would you want to be described as a gentle person? ~ Hmmm ... they probably would not describe me as a gentle person. I know I'm not gentle. I'm kind and have a big heart, but I don't think that's to describe as gentle. Jesus wasn't gentle all the time, He could be hard to the people that needed someone to stand up to them. Jesus was always right and had reasons to be hard to some people. He wasn't hard to punish people, but to open their eyes. He was never unreasonable.
I think we always have to follow Jesus in what He did and what He does. Jesus is how we are suppose to be.
Mae
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Some passages that stood out:
1 Sam 10:6-7 "and you will be changed into a different person. Once these signs are fulfilled, do whatever your hand finds to do, for God is with you."
Saul hiding among the baggage was very humorous!
John 6:44 "No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him."
Ps. 107:1 "Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever." (I'm singing it!)
Prov. 15:1 "1 A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." --This for sure have I found to be true!!
Jenny
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When Jesus spoke of eating His body and drinking His blood, many people of that time thought he was talking about cannibalism. I guess if you did not understand that Jesus is the Son of God, and that by following Him and putting your trust in Him you are saved and receive eternal life, you might think just that.
I remember many years ago when I first read these versus I too had a moment of discus about the thought of eating human flesh and drinking human blood, but thankfully the spirit explained these passages to me. I believe that what is meant by eating His body and drinking His blood is that we should follow Him, believe in Him, put our entire trust in Him and live our lives by His example. His flesh and blood are His word and teaching and we should take in and digest every word. By doing so, we will have eternal life. What a wonderful promise!
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I would have to say that I’m fairly sure that people would describe me as gentle. I think Jesus was gentle most of the time. Two incidents I can think of in the Bible when He wasn’t so gentle was when He entered the temple and threw out the money changers; Matthew 21:12; “12 Jesus entered the temple area and drove out all who were buying and selling there. He overturned the tables of the money changers and the benches of those selling doves.” (NIV) Jesus was not gentle that day, and rightfully so. People were desecrating His father’s house. Another moment when I don’t think Jesus was gentle was when He rebuked Peter in Matthew 16:23; “23 Jesus turned and said to Peter, "Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind the things of God, but the things of men." (NIV), and in Mark 8:33; 33 “But when Jesus turned and looked at his disciples, he rebuked Peter.”Get behind me, Satan!" he said. "You do not have in mind the things of God, but the things of men." I tend to like the way Mark tells this story; it shows me that Jesus was not gentle when it came to people not worshipping His father in Heaven.
Yours in Christ
Skip
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The Old & New Testament readings - Both readings showed me how we humans call upon God for leadership. When the leader is given (Old Testament - Saul, Israel's first King; in the New Testament - Jesus, our Messiah), there are those who truly follow these leaders and others can not follow all the way. This is very true even today. The choice is ours, follow who God sent to us or follow the world's calling. Tough especially these days.
I think I am both gentle & at the same time capable of harsh words Mike. I believe everybody is capable of being harsh some time or another. This world considers gentleness as a sign of weakness. The world teaches assertiveness and self confidence. People feel that one can not be successful or prove their point in this world, if one is gentle & meek. This is contrary to Jesus teachings. This reminds me of this individual (a Christian)who calls me goody two shoes (not a complimentary statement I suppose). I suppose because she has not seen my harsh side. To make the long story short, in an instance when I apologized for not being able to help in her project in church, she started lashing with her sharp tongue in front of the group. At that time I was deeply hurt and embarrassed. How could an apology resulted in harsh words. Sometimes when we are frustated we lash at the person who just happens to be around us or the weakest person. How many times do we lash out on our family when something was wrong at work, etc. For a while I could not look at the group. However, she behaves that nothing happened. I must be a very sensitive person and not used to chastising people in public. I decided to pray for my relationship with her. Since she does not drive, she calls me from time to time give her a ride. Everything is fine with us now. I suppose we, out of frustration are harsh in our words. I pray that God will guard my tongue all the time. This does not mean though that I should be a punching bag for others. I am sure I have offended, hurt others unintentionally or intentionally but I try not to humiliate others in public especially my kids, friends or anybody.
Lily
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1 Samuel 10: 15-16, 22
15 Saul’s uncle said, “Tell me what Samuel said to you.”
16 Saul replied, “He assured us that the donkeys had been found.” But he did not tell his uncle what Samuel had said about the kingship.
22 So they inquired further of the LORD, “Has the man come here yet?”
And the LORD said, “Yes, he has hidden himself among the supplies.”
I just wonder why Saul did not tell his uncle that Samuel anointed him king of Israel. These two verses together with verse 22, revealed that Saul might not be so 'used to' being the king of Israel. As Mike suggests, being humble or 'shy' is a good thing. At least you know that you can't do anything (especially a king) without God.
1 Samuel 11:7
7 He took a pair of oxen, cut them into pieces, and sent the pieces by messengers throughout Israel, proclaiming, “This is what will be done to the oxen of anyone who does not follow Saul and Samuel.” Then the terror of the LORD fell on the people, and they came out together as one.
Saul asked the Israeli to follow him and Samuel. At this point of time, Saul was still putting his spiritual adviser together with him (a political king). I believe this is important as Saul, the first king of Israel, fought and won because God was with him. Without God, he was doomed to failure.
John 6:53
53 Jesus said to them, “Very truly I tell you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you.
God clearly prohibited in the OT (e.g. Leviticus 7:26-27)and the NT (e.g. Acts 15:20) that we should not eat blood for life is in blood. But here in John 6:53, Jesus asked us to drink his blood. I am thinking if it is because drinking Jesus' blood, we are connected to his eternal life. What are your views?
Frederick
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I believe I am a gentle person. Jesus was gentle. He never harmed anyone, just loved them, even the ones who betrayed him, and the ones who lkilled him. He was gentle vn spirit, and by nature I am as well. I have been betrayed, and abandoned by one I loved, but never had anger at him. I model myself after Jesus. I have died, and yet I live. My car accident killed me, but since God has more for me to accomplish here, I was resuscitated. I am much more spikritual since my accident. I know that God brought me through it, and enabled my brain to retain my intelligrence and enhanced my creativity. I am a child of God because of Jesus' sacrifice.
Karyn
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Saul
1 Samuel 10
I think a character study of this guy would be fascinating. He has so many character traits that reflect on us all in some sort of fashion. In this reading as he is made the first elect King of Israel we see this wonderful modesty as he hides amongst the baggage as his kingship is declared. As time goes on he turns into a raving lunatic with his relationship with David. If Netflix existed at that time there would be hundreds of shows about the monarchy just like we see today in the countless shows about the Royals in England. Of course, a lot of nations go through their struggles and I think it is up to us to recognize whether or not they are in league with God or not. Just look at their coins. Look at the Mathew 22:21 verse. Is it Caesar or is it like in the USA which says, In God We Trust?
I think Ramona describes it well, “we just love Pomp and Circumstance, a king with all the regalia that goes with the job, over substance. We love emotion and sentiment as the king leads his troops and sits on his throne, but we hate the truth that the other King, God brings.”
John 6:43-71
Some tough teaching here by Jesus. Eternal life, flesh and blood, sheep and goats, decision making. I can see how some people have trouble with this stuff. Trying to explain it is even harder! Here is a thought. Verse 45 says, “Everyone who listens to the Father and learns from him comes to me.” That means if you are reading this it is because God is bringing you to this place at this time. Another thing in Verse 47, “I tell you the truth, he who believes has everlasting life.” What does that stir up in your heart and mind? It has been said those who pray for eternal life don’t know what to do on a wet Sunday.
Robert
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Proverbs 15:1
A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.
I have always viewed this Proverb as the words out of our mouths to others, which it is, but I saw more this time. Last weekend I was deep in a pity party, angry about a perceived slight. I was grumbling to myself, feeling so hurt and angry. I sat down on the sidewalk to pull weeds and with one little movement pulled a muscle in my back. In the midst of my tears God spoke to my heart. "Didn't I tell you not to hold on to anger, it is not good for you". I suffered wrath in my own tense angry body.
Love and blessings,
Jasanna
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It is sad that mankind chooses man instead of God. Saul hadn't a faintest clue how to rule..thank the Lord God above He led. And the people just couldn't understand that with God you have all you will ever need.
John..6..I learned something today in reading. I forget at times that it's not just 12 that Jesus seeks out. There were many disciples to count. However when He spoke of eating of my flesh and drinketh of my blood..many turned away and stopped seeking or following him. How sad! However , I love Peter..this is a man so like mine .very outspoken, transparent..real. he was like, "Lord, where would we go? You are the Messiah, the Son of God" (paraphrasing) I love it 😀
Psalm 107..longer one..however many verses similar to favorite worship chords and Michael W Smith..absolute love! His voice is so anointed
Proverbs 15..gentleness. I am at times. I think of my kids nana..or my mother n law..very gentle. Granny..who is 93..gentle soul! Beautiful character
Dee