His Love Continues to Our Grandchildren

Scripture - Psalm 103:17 But the Lord's love for those who respect him continues forever and ever, and his goodness continues to their grandchildren.

Observation - My respect and love for God and his great love for me will have an impact on and change the lives of future generations. God has promised to pour out his goodness to my children (Steve, Tim, Andy, Jenny, Chris, and Bekah) and my grandchildren (Sandie, Abigail, Tyler, Hailey, Timmy, Bradley, Kaitlyn, Stevie, Eddie, Caleab, Cadence, Jaiden, and Avery).

Application - I will live in the Lord's love and continue to respect him.

Prayer - Lord, thank you for loving me. Thank you for loving my children and grandchildren. Thank you for your promise. Thank you for your goodness. I pray that you will put your angels around my family, keep them safe from harm, and bring them all home to you. Amen.

The Wisdom of God

Scripture - Isaiah 55:8,9 The Lord says, "My thoughts are not like your thoughts. Your ways are not like my ways. Just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts higher than your thoughts."

Observation - I can trust the Lord in every situation in my life. God is so wise and our thoughts miss the mark quite frequently. I must stay connected to the Lord so he can share his thoughts with me. He does that through His word and prayer. He shares his thoughts and ways with us by His Holy Spirit.

Application - I must stay connected to the Lord. I must live in His word, so I will know his thoughts and ways. Left on my own, my thoughts and ways are wrong. My mind is in constant need of reprogramming. I need Him and His Spirit.

Prayer - Lord, thank you that I can trust you with every detail in my life. You hold all wisdom and knowledge. I place every detail of my life in your hands. As I continue to look to you, you share the thoughts I need through your Holy Spirit enlightening your Word. Amen.

Light of the Lord vs. Man-made Light

Scripture - Isaiah 50:11 But instead, some of you want to light your own fires and make your own light. So, go, walk in the light of your fires and trust in your own light to guide you. But this is what you will receive from me: You will lie down in a place of pain.

Observation - We can either walk in God's way or light or in our own way or light. When we walk with God, we will have peace; but when we walk in our own light (understanding), we will have pain. I must walk in the light of God's fire.

Application - I must not make my own fires or light. I must walk in the light of the Lord. I must stay on the path He chooses for me.

Prayer - Father, help me to walk in your light for my life. Help me to not seek my own will or way for my life. Help me not to push doors open that may be closed for a reason. Let me walk in your way. Amen.

Changed by His Word

Scripture - James 1:21  Therefore lay aside all filthiness and overflow of wickedness, and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls.

Observation - As believers, it is imperative that we keep ourselves in check. We must not let our carnal nature rule us. In order to live a life of faith and walk according to the Spirit of God, we must take His word and plant it in our hearts. It is so easy to walk according to the flesh - it comes naturally. But to walk by the Spirit takes work. There is that word that no one likes to hear - WORK. Oh, some may be saying right now - but salvation is free and is by grace. True. And if you only want to go as far as receiving salvation, then you can stop right there. But....if you want to live your life by the Holy Spirit of the Living God, it will take much work. 

Application - So today, if you hear his voice, heed the call. Plant the Word of God inside your heart that you might not sin against Him. Learn (by the Word) what manner of person you ought to be, and pursue Him with all of your heart. It is all right there - written in His book.

Prayer - Father, help me to keep my flesh in check and follow after you. Be with me as I journey to know you more and seek your will for my life. May your Word be a light unto my path and may your Holy Spirit illuminate so that I can see. In Yeshua's name. Amen.

Jesus - The Author and Finisher of our Faith

13 Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law, having become a curse for us (for it is written,“Cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree”[h]), 14 that the blessing of Abraham might come upon the Gentiles in Christ Jesus, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.

Observation - This scripture puts to rest the conflict that is within myself regarding Law/Spirit issues. We (who have been saved through faith in Christ) can rest assured that it is not by following rules we have access to God. When our focus is just on living a righteous life because of the words on the page, we are to be pitied. True righteousness can only be grasped through faith in Jesus/Yeshua. His finished work on the cross is our only access to Yahweh.

Application - My life is complete when I look to Yeshua, the author and finisher of my faith. God can then work within my spirit by His Holy Spirit to bring the necessary changes in my heart. His Word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. HAVE FAITH IN GOD!

Prayer - May you show us your mercy as we walk through this earthly life. Let my faith rest in the finished work of Jesus, who came to earth and laid down his life on the cross, so that all who look upon him (in faith) can enter in to the hope of eternal life. Help me to keep my gaze fixed on Jesus from this day forward. Amen.

Does My Life Measure Up?

Scripture - Ephesians 4:2  Always be humble, gentle and patient, bearing with one another in love, 3 and making every effort to preserve the unity the Spirit gives through the binding power of shalom. 4 There is one body and one Spirit, just as when you were called you were called to one hope. 5 And there is one Lord, one trust, one immersion, 6 and one God, the Father of all, who rules over all, works through all and is in all.

Observation - This scripture focuses on the character of the believer. We, as believers, ought to emulate Christ to those who are around us. If we are truly his, then what manner of person should we be? This scripture portion sums it up - we should be humble, gentle, patient, bearing with one another in love, and making every effort to preserve unity through peace (shalom). Brothers and sisters, in order for this to happen, our focus must be on the love of Jesus.

Application - We need to begin to ask ourselves some serious questions. Am I a child of God? Why does it seem so hard to love at times? Am I willing to come out of my selfishness and put my focus on loving others? I know I am a child of God. It seems so hard for me to love at times because I am selfish. We must begin to see past ourselves to help a lost and dying world.

Prayer - Father, please help me to be sensitive to the needs of others that you have placed in my path. Let my life exhibit your love and peace to a world that so desperately needs you. Light my path and guide my footsteps. Amen. 

We Are Examples of God to Others

Scripture - I Peter 5:3 Do not be like a ruler over people you are responsible for, but be good examples to them.

Observation - God has called us to be examples to others he has placed in our lives. It is not enough to just tell someone how they need to live or what they should do. We are to be living examples of God's love and His ways. He is our Father and we need to show others His character by our lives.

Application - I must choose to follow God, study his word, and show others his character. I must live out His life through my life.

Prayer - Lord, make me more likeyou so that I can show others the way. Amen

Love Covers All

Scripture - I Peter 4:8 Most importantly, love each other deeply, because love will cause many sins to be forgiven.

Observation - Love covers all. We are to love each other to the point of covering each others' sins. We all sin. We are not like those living without the Lord who go around doing evil. But, we still sin (miss the mark of God's best) in many ways.

Application - I will love - love is a choice. Even when I am frustrated with others, I will love them.

Prayer - Lord - make me an instrument of your love. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Want to be Happy?

Scripture - I Peter 3:10
A person must do these things to enjoy life and have many happy days. He must not say evil things and he must not tell lies. He must stop doing evil and do good. He must look for peace and work for it. The Lord sees good people and listens to their prayers. But the Lord is against those who do evil.

Observation - This is a nugget of truth from the Lord telling us that if we do these things, we will enjoy life and be happy. God wants us happy. He says to stay away from speaking evil and telling lies. Consequences of that behavior lead to living a life full of strife and contention.

Application - I will not speak evil and tell lies. I will look for peace. I will do good to people as opportunities arise.

Prayer - Lord, help me to keep guard over my tongue. Help me to work toward peace. Help me to do good and not evil. Amen

God's Word Will Light the Way

S - James 1:25 - But the truly happy people are those who carefully study God's perfect law that makes people free, and they continue to study it. They do not forget what they heard, but they obey what God's teaching says. Those who do this will be made happy.

O - If we want true happiness, we find it in learning and following God's Word. There are so many treasures in his Word and he longs for us to know them.There is instruction for all areas of our lives including: relationships, finances, friendship, etc.

A - I must become a student of God's Word, so I will discover his truths.

P - Lord, give me a hunger for your Word. Place a growing desire in my heart to know you and your ways. Amen.

Yeshua - The Tested Rock

S - Isaiah 28:16 "I will put a stone in the ground in Jerusalem, a tested stone. Everything will be build on this important and precious rock. Anyone who trusts in it will never be disappointed."

O - I believe Yeshua is this important and precious rock. He is the one in whom we are to trust and never be disappointed.

A - I must build my life on the rock - YESHUA! When I trust in him, I won't be disappointed.

P - Lord, there are many uncertainties in life. But through all of my seasons, I trust in the rock that is not moved - Yeshua. He is with me always and I thank you for his stability. Amen.

RUN, RUN, RUN

S - Hebrews 12:1 So let us run the race that is before us and never give up. We should remove from our lives anything that would get in the way and the sin that so easily holds us back.

O - Let's establish this - we are running a race. There are many obstacles that seem to try to sidetrack us. We must set our sight on finishing the race and not give the obstacles too much of our attention. If there are sins or attitudes in our lives that are ungodly, we must shed them so we can run. We are not to let them weigh us down.

A - I must look ahead and run the race. I must not focus on the obstacles, but on Jesus the author and finisher of my faith. And RUN, RUN, RUN

P - Lord, help me to run with my eyes fixed on you, not on the cares of the world and other obstacles. If there are any destructive ways or behaviors in my life, help me to identify them and deal with them. Amen.

No Lone Rangers

S - Hebrews 10:24,25 Let us think about each other and help each other to show love and do good deeds. You should not stay away from the church meetings, as some are doing, but you should meet together and encourage each other.

O - We are not to be lone rangers. We are to stay connected to other believers - not isolated. It is also important that we help each other when there are needs and love each other tangibly.

A & P - Lord, give me a sensitivity to the needs around me. Give me the necessary resources to meet the needs. Amen.

Our High Priest

S- Hebrews 7:24 But because Yeshua (Jesus) lives forever, he will never stop serving as priest. So, he is able always to save those who come to God through him, because he always lives, asking God to help them.

O - Jesus is standing before the Father always making intercession for those who belong to him. He prays and intercedes on our behalf. He asks God to help us.

A - I must live with Jesus first in my life. I must trust him as my high priest and Lord. He stands before the Father on my behalf.

P - Lord, thank you for sending Jesus to die for my sin. Thank you that he comes before you on my behalf and you send help my way. Amen.

Jesus paid the price for us. He laid down his life, so that we could be saved and inherit eternal life with him. Everyone has eternal life, but only those who trust Yeshua can be secure in their destination. If you don't know him today, pray and ask him to reveal himself to you and trust him with your life. We are his children and are called out of this present darkness to his marvelous light. Whatever your circumstances, turn to him today. He is not like a genie. I am not guaranteeing that your problems will go away. But he will change you and walk with you through whatever you are going through. He will give you strength and peace. That's worth more than anything in this life.

Patience When We Pray to The God Who Answers Prayer

I wrote this on July 7, 2006 and am amazed as I look back at how the Lord answered. We were living in San Bernardino at the time. Our daughter was in 5th grade and I wanted to move because I wanted her to be in a better location starting in middle school. Wow, how he answered. In April 2008, we moved to Victorville. He provided a beautiful home for us to live in and our daughter is attending a performing arts charter school where her education is affording her opportunity to advance in her dreams. He is truly the God who hears and answers prayer. We had to believe that he would hear us - AND HE DID.

S - Hebrews 6:12 We do not want you to become lazy. Be like those who through faith and patience will receive what God has promised.

O - I have a part in receiving what God has promised. First of all, I must believe that he will do what he promised. Second, I must keep believing and be patient.

A - I believe God wants to move us to a better location. I will wait and keep believing.

P - Lord, let me not lose heart while I wait on your placement for us. Amen

Why Aren't We Teachers?

Scripture - Hebrews 5:12 By now you should be teachers, but you need someone to teach you again the first lessons of God's message. You still need the teaching that is like milk. You are not ready for solid food.

Observation - We need to move on past the milk stage to solid foods. When we are first saved, the Lord feeds us milk so we can grow just like a baby does in the natural. Then at a certain point, he wants us to move on to meatier teaching. He doesn't want us to only drink milk when we've walked with him for many years. Our Father knows the right time to introduce us to deeper teaching. At that point, He disciples us. We must listen for his voice and follow him.

Application - There are many believers living unfulfilled lives because they are still in the baby stage. God wants us to grow up and help others to grow up also. We must be taught and discipled. We have to be willing to put ourselves in places where God's Word is taught so we can grow.

Prayer - Father, help me to grow in your teaching so that I may teach others your ways and help them grow from the baby stage to maturity. Amen.

Faith and God's Word

S - Hebrews 4:2 The Good News was preached to us just as it was to them. But the teaching they heard did not help them because they heard it but did not accept it with faith.

O - You must have faith to walk in the teachings of God's Word. There are those who hear the Word and accept it. Then, there are those who hear God's Word and don't get it. In order for God's Word to help us, we have to have faith. Faith comes by hearing God's Word. When I hear His Word and have His faith, I am changed.

A - Ask the Lord for faith so that when you hear His Word, it can help you.

P - I pray for greater faith, Lord, so that I will accept your Word, and it will help me. Change my heart and enlarge my faith walk so that I will be changed. Amen

Encourage Each Other

Scripture - Hebrews 3:13 but encourage each other every day while it is "today." Help each other so none of you will become hardened because sin has tricked you.

Observation - We are in need of encouragement in the body of Messiah today. So many people are so discouraged and in so many situations that seem hopeless. We need to help each other through our trials.

Application - I will lesten for the cry of discouragement in peoples' lives when I speak to them and will pray the Father to give me wisdom and words of encouragement for them.

Prayer - Father, help me to be sensitive by your Ruach (Holy Spirit). Use me to bring healing to the discouraged ones. Amen.

Knowledge or the Lack Of

S - Hosea 4:6 My people will be destroyed because they have no knowledge.

O - We must continue to learn. We have to apply ourselves to learn of God's ways. There are so many things we need to know so that we will not be destroyed. Even in things such as what we should eat can cause us to perish if we are disobedient.

A - Lord, let me have a willingness to learn what I need to know, so I won't be destroyed, and help me to teach others.

P - Lord, help me to be an eager learner and to teach and help others. Amen

Pay Attention to Yeshua's Words

Scripture - Hebrews 1:1 In the past, God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets many times and in many different ways. But now, in these last days, God has spoken to us through his Son.

Observation - There is a new way to hear God. Before Christ was born, God spoke differently. After Yeshua's life on earth, God speaks to us through Yeshua and his words. I think if we were to focus more on what Yeshua said and "follow him" we would be much better off. There is confusion sometimes in what others' spoke, but with him, it is simple to understand and clearly stated.

Application - I must pay special attention to Yeshua's words and learn his ways. He came to this earth as the Son of Yah. He was born to Mary through the Holy Spirit. His Words should be taken as the Holy Word of Yahuwah. They are very important Friends.

Prayer - Father, help me to be more like your Son by learning his ways and following him.

Obedience - The Key to Success

Scripture - II Chronicles 27:6 Jotham became powerful because he always obeyed the Lord his God.

Observation - You would think after reading about the kings that they would have learned the secrets of success. Their success was always determined by their obedience to God. when they were disobedient to God, their kingdoms were doomed. When they obeyed the Lord, their kingdoms were blessed.

Application - Just as the kings had choices of obedience or disobedience so do we. I must choose obedience to God in order to experience blessings in my life.

Prayer - Father, help me to walk in obedience to you.Amen.

Trust Him

Scripture - Psalms 115:11 You who respect the Lord should trust him; he is your helper and your protection.

Observation -This scripture starts out "You who respect the Lord..." First of all this verse is speaking to a particular group of people - those who respect the Lord.How do you know if you are one who respects him. I believe this is quite simple. Those who respect him keep his commandments. When you keep his commandments, you may partake of this promise.

 I must always remember to trust God. He is the one who helps me and protects me. This is true when I am fearful and also when I don't feel fear. God is always there for me. All I have to do is call on him.

Application - Let me be counted as one who respects the Lord. I will keep his commandments the best that I can. I know I am not perfect and that it is only by the blood of Yeshua (Jesus) that I am saved. But after that salvation, I have a responsibility to live a life worthy of his calling. I will trust God to help me and protect me.

Prayer - Father, I pray that I may trust you at all times and in every situation. Let your peace rule and reign in my heart. Amen.

His Free Gift

Scripture - Titus 3:5,6 It was not because of good deeds we did to be right with him. He saved us through the washing that made us new people through the Holy Spirit. God poured out richly upon us that Holy Spirit through Yeshua our Messiah. Being made right with God by his grace.

Observation - It is not my works or deeds that bring about righteousness. It is through Jesus (Yeshua) my Savior that I have been made right with Yahweh.. At the time I accepted Yeshua, I was washed totally clean from my old evil life. All I had to do was to trust Yah like a child.

Application - I am so grateful for the gift of my salvation. It was there for me to accept Yeshua and I'm so thankful I accepted God's best for me. You can accept his gift also. It is not by good deeds that we are saved. It is by the grace of God.

Prayer - Thank you for your grace in my life. I am so glad I don't have to work my way to heaven. Thanks to Yeshua and his life given for me, I am saved! Amen! Halleluyah!

The Creator

Scripture - Psalms 104:24,25 Lord, you have made many things; with your wisdom you made them all. The earth is full of your riches. Look at the sea, so big and wide, with creatures large and small that cannot be counted.

Observation - The Lord has made so many things; animals, plants, mountains, oceans, etc. They show his character. By the things he has made, he reveals life. The creatures, great and small, are so unique in their characteristics. God must have a sense of humor also. Some creatures are outright funny looking, and He made so many things. In his wisdom, He created them.

Application - When I look at or observe the things God made, I will think on the wisdom of God. Everything He created has purpose, not matter how unimportant it may seem to us. His is wiser than man.

Prayer - Father, help me to see your light in all that you created. May I always remember your wisdom when I see all that you have made. Amen.

God Wants More Than a Song

Scripture - Amos 5:23,24 Take the noise of your songs away from me! I won't listen to the music of your harps. But let justice flow like a river, and let goodness flow like a stream that never stops.

Observation - God doesn't just want lip service from His people. He wants action. Websters dictionary:

justice - the condition of being just or fair 2) reward or punishment as deserved 3) the upholding of what is just or lawful 4) to treat people in a fair or proper way

goodness - the condition of being good
good - better than the usual or average kind (good work) 2) not for everyday use; best 3) right for the purpose; satisfactory 4) pleasing or satisfying; enjoyable or happy 5) helpful, that benefits (exercise for good health) 6) doing what is right or proper; well behaved 7) kind or friendly 7) honorable or respected

Application - What manner of people does God expect his children to be? Those who practice justice and goodness. Let us learn to walk in his ways.

Prayer - Let us not just sing songs to you Lord, but let our lives reflect the very essence of who you are. Amen!

Listen to His Word

S - II Tim. 3:16 All scripture is given by God and is useful for teaching, for showing people what is wrong in their lives, for correcting their faults, and for teaching how to live right.

O - God has given his word to help us. We must begin to listen to him. If there are things in our lives that need to be corrected, God will show us through his word.

A - I must study God's Word and listen for his voice. His Word will speak to me if there is an area that needs to be fixed.

P - Father, teach me how to live. Let your Word convict me enough, so I will change. Amen.

The Pharisee and the Sinner Who Met Yeshua (Salvation)

Scripture - Luke 7:36-38 And one of the Pharisees asked him (Yeshua) to eat with him. And He went into the Pharisee's house, and sat down to eat. 37 And see, a woman in the city who was a sinner, when she knew that Yeshua sat at the table in the Pharisee's house, brought an alabaster flask of perfume. 38 and standing behind, at His feet, weeping, she began to wet His feet with her tears, and wipig them with the hair of her head, and was kissing His feet and anointing them with perfume.

Observation - I was overcome with emotion as I read Luke 7, but these three versus speak very loudly to me. The Pharisee was walking out religion in his life. He invited Yeshua for a meal (maybe even just to pick his brain and see what he was made of, possibly to try and trip him up philosophically). The woman it seems just kind of showed up. She heard that Yeshua was there, and she couldn't stay away. There was a drawing from Yah and she had to be there. She was a sinner and she needed a savior. When she entered his presence, she was undone. This was a supernatural experience. She wept and washed Yeshua's feet with her tears, using her hair to wipe them. She kissed his feet and anointed them with perfume. Her life was changed forever after being in His very presence. Scripture goes on to say in the next verses how those who are redeemed from a life of deep sin, show greater love than those who haven't walked that path.

Application - As a person who was in deep sin before I met Yeshua (Jesus), I have somewhat of an understanding of this love. He saved me and brought me out of a deep pit, and I am eternally grateful. May my life be seen as an example of one who loves him deeply.

Prayer - Father, thank you for the day that I saw your son, Yeshua, for who he was - my salvation. His very name, Yeshua, means "salvation." Let me love you without reservation and not be afraid of what others may think. It is my relationship with you that matters more than anything. I am eternally grateful for all that you have done for me. In Yeshua's name. Amen.

Listen to Yahuwah

S - Amos 3:6,7 When trouble comes to a city, the Yahuwah has caused it. Before Yahuwah does anything, he tells his plans to his servants the prophets.

O - We need to tune in to what the true prophets of Yah are saying. The false ones are giving messages of how you can gain more wealth. The true propets, however, are telling us to discern the times we are living in. We are living in the end times according to Yah's prophets and we need to be prepared.

A - I need to discern the true voice of Yahuwah. He is still speaking to us. He will always warn His people before he does anything on the earth. I need to stay prayed up and listening for his voice.

P - Father, I thank you that you are speaking through your leaders regarding things to come. The earthquakes, storms, etc. were all spoken of in your Word. Let us seek you regarding preparation for the end times. Amen.

Pursue Faith, Peace, and Love

S - II Timothy 2:22 But run away from the evil young people like to do. Try hard to live right and to have faith, love, and peace, together with those who trust in the Lord from pure hearts.

O - Young people, who don't follow the Lord, sometimes find themselves caught up in all sorts of evil. If you want to live your life as a believer, it is necessary to turn away from evil and the appearance of evil in your life. You are to live a pure, peaceful life, following after faith and love. In order to attain this, we need to be associated with other believers who are pursuing God's ways in their lives.

A - I must pursue peace, faith, and love, and hang out with others who are also seeking these virtues.

P - Help me Father to follow after you and not be caught up in evil or the appearance of evil. Amen.

We Are Not Afraid

Scripture - 2 Timothy 1:7,8 God did not give us a spirit that makes us afraid, but a spirit of power and love and self-control. So, do not be ashamed to tell people about our Messiah Yeshua.

Observation - We need to ask the Lord for opportunities to share with others about Yeshua (Jesus). When God quickens that we need to share with someone, we should not be afraid. The Lord will move in His power and love as we share, and we must have self-control enough to be sensitive to the leading of the Ruach (Spirit).

Application - I must share with other the story of salvation. In Revelation, God's Word says "They overcame the evil one with the blood of the Lamb (Yeshua) and the word of their testimony." We must share His story.

Prayer - Father, help me to look for opportunities to share the story of Yeshua and the story of what He has done in my life. Let them be saved and changed. Amen.

Riches

I Timothy 6:9,10 Those who want to become rich bring temptation to themselves and are caught in a trap. They want many foolish and harmful things that ruin and destroy people. The love of money causes all kinds of evil. Some people have left the faith because they wanted to get more money, but they have caused themselves much sorrow.

Observation - Having money isn't all it is cracked up to be. There are more important things in life. In verse 11 it does on to say, "live in the right way, serve God, have faith, love patience, and gentleness." We are not to seek after riches. It will use all of our energy in life. We must use our energy to seek after the Lord. Many people who used to feed their spirit in church, no longer attend either because of greed or just wanting to engage in recreational activities that consume their lives.

Application - Stay focused on God and follow Him - not riches.

Prayer - Lord, help me to follow after you. Let not riches contry my existence. Let me be content with what you have blessed me with. Amen.

Helping is Scriptural - Enabling is Not

I Timothy 5:8 Whoever does not care for his own relatives, especially his own family members, has turned against the faith and is worse than someone who does not believe in Yahweh.

Observation - Why do we care for them? Is it because we agree with them or the lives they live? No, we care for them because they are family. When we see a family member in need, we should attempt to help them.

Application - If any of my family members are truly in need, I am to help them. In the day that we live in, there are so many people who make bad choices regarding finances. When I originally wrote this post, I had a different view. I agree that we are to help them, but not be in codependent relationships with anyone. There is a fine line friends between true needs and someone riding out the consequences of bad choices.

Prayer - Father, help me to help my family members who have true needs, and help me to discern between helping and enabling. Amen.

Truth vs. Wrong Doctrines

Scripture - I Timothy 4:1,2 Now the Holy Spirit clearly says that in the later times some people will stop believing the faith. They will follow spirits that lie and teachings of demons. Such teachings come from the false words of liars.

Observation - We are living in these later times spoken of here. There are so many wrong teachings today. Even so, we must hold fast to our faith - the true faith. We must measure teachings by God's Word to know if they are true. We can not just take one scripture and base our whole felief system on it. We must look at the complete context of the Word.

Application - I will search the scriptures daily so I won't be deceived and pray for wisdom from the Lord.

Prayer - Father, please help me to walk in faith and truth. Impart wisdom to me. Amen.

Praise Him!

Scripture - II Chronicles 20:22 As they began to sing and praise God, the Lord set ambushes for the people of Ammon, Moab, and Edom who had come to attack Judah. And they were defeated.

Observation - Yes, there was a battle in front of Judah, but their focus was not to be on the battle. Their focus was to be on "praising God." When they praised God, He set ambushes against the enemy. As we look to him, He defeats the enemy. Too many believers today give the enemy too much attention.

Application - I will praise Him! I will have praise music in my home. He lives in the praises of His people!

Pray - When battles are raging, let me focus on praising you, Lord. As I do, please fight my battles. In Yeshua's name. Amen.

Pray for Those in Authority

Scripture - I Tim. 2:2 Pray for rulers and for all who have authority so that we can have quiet and peaceful lives, full of worship and respect for God.

Observation - We are to pray for leaders in our lives. The decisions they make can impact our lives in either positive or negative ways. This is part of the reason that we need to pray for them. Peoples' lives are dependent on those in authority making good decisions. We don't pray for them nearly enough because maybe we just think that we are insignificant. But when we pray, we have our Father's attention. It is not about the people in authority. It is about the Spirit of God impacting those in authority and causing them to make godly decisions.

Application - I will pray for leaders in my city, state, and country. I pray that they would make decisions that will honor God and help people.

Prayer - Father, please give those in authority wisdom so that your children may continue praising you without strife. Amen.

Good and Perfect Gifts

Scripture - James 1:16-17  My dear brothers and sisters, do not be fooled about this. 17 Every good action and every perfect gift is from God. These good gifts come down from the Creator of the sun, moon, and stars, who does not change like their shifting shadows.

Observation - Wow to think that the Creator of the Universe, as vast as it is, cares enough about his children to give them good and perfect gifts. He loves us so very much. The best gift he gave to any of us is his son, Yeshua. He also gives us gifts of family and friends. While the Father gives us his wonderful gifts, let us remember him as Creator and the Lover of Our Souls. He knows what is best for each person's life. Sometimes we look at others and what they have and are jealous. But Yahweh knows what he is doing. He gives each of us a set of circumstances to show us that he loves us. 

Application - I will be so grateful for the good and perfect gifts that Yahweh has given to me. He has blessed me with a wonderful husband, six beautiful children, and 13 grandchildren, and many that I call "friends." But most of all, he sent his Son Yeshua to save me and the Holy Spirit to help me. He has also given His Word to guide me along this path through my life. What more could I ask for?

Prayer - Father, thank you for the gifts that you have given to me. Let me always remember that they are blessings. Help me to focus on the positive not negatives in those around me. In Yeshua's name. Amen.

It Is Our Job

Scripture - Ps. 82:3,4 Defend the weak and the orphans; defend the rights of the poor and suffering. Save the weak and helpless; free them from the power of the wicked.

Observation - God's heart is made glad when we do these things. He is very concerned about the "throw away" people in our world.

Application - We must begin to be His heartbeat (Lev Shelo in Hebrew means His Heart) to the weak, orphans, poor, and suffering. We are his hands extended.

Prayer - Father, teach us your heart. Amen

Walking on His Path through Temptation

S - James 1:12  How blessed is the man who perseveres through temptation! For after he has passed the test, he will receive as his crown the Life which God has promised to those who love him.

O - Why is it that the temptations and tests we face in this life seem so huge to us? We, as believers, have the knowledge of right and wrong. We want to follow Yahweh and keep on his path. But the flesh just keeps rearing its ugly head and so often, we give in. Oh, we know there is forgiveness, but the consequences of sin leave their ugly scars on our lives. Is it because we don't take the Lord seriously? Does the Holy Spirit convict us before we sin? Do we not listen to him?

A - The closer that I walk to the Lord, the less temptation I will have to do wrong. It is a narrow path that leads to life and Yeshua said there will be few who find it. I want to walk on that narrow path and receive the crown of Life. I believe there are different levels in heaven. Salvation isn't based on works, but what if the place you end up in heaven depends on how you walk on this earth?

P - Father, please help me to walk out your will for me in this life. Lead me not in temptation. Deliver me from evil. My spirit is willing to follow you, but my flesh is so weak. Build me up in your Ruach Hakodesh so that I don't sin against you. You are all that I have in this life. People may fail me, but your love never fails. In Yeshua's name. Amen.

Be Fair

Scripture - II Chron. 19:7 Watch what you do, because the Lord our God wants people to be fair. He wants all people to be treated the same, and he doesn't want decisions influenced by money.

Observation - Our government should be run according to these principles; but unfortunately because of greed, people can be bought. They may even change their vote if there is money involved. We live in a society that continually asks "What's in it for me?" We can be easily bought. Even if something is right, maybe the people won't support it if there is monetary gain in a different arena.

Application - I must make decisions in my life that are according to the righteousness of God and his Word.

Prayer - Lord, help me to seek to do your will not only when there is something in it for me, but just because it is right. Amen.

His Wisdom

Scripture - James 1:5-8  

If any of you is deficient in wisdom, let him ask of [a]the giving God [Who gives] to everyone liberally and ungrudgingly, without reproaching or faultfinding, and it will be given him.

6 Only it must be in faith that he asks with no wavering (no hesitating, no doubting). For the one who wavers (hesitates, doubts) is like the billowing surge out at sea that is blown hither and thither and tossed by the wind.

7 For truly, let not such a person imagine that he will receive anything [he asks for] from the Lord,

8 [For being as he is] a man of two minds (hesitating, dubious, irresolute), [he is] unstable and unreliable and uncertain about everything [he thinks, feels, decides].

Observation - I have seen these scriptures quoted so many times (especially verse 6) by those who are in the faith movement. It is imperative that scripture is taken in context. Friends, this portion of scripture is specifically speaking of those who lack wisdom and need the Lord to show them his will. We have behaved like children wanting our own way in life. There are those who use this scripture (and quote it over and over again) for personal monetary gain. I am not seeing it. 

So, with that in mind, if you need wisdom - HAVE FAITH IN GOD. Ask him to show you and believe that HE WILL. Do not be double minded when you ask. He will give it to you.

Application - So many times in my life, I need his wisdom and don't even go to him to ask for it. Decisions that I make are without his leading. I do not want to be wavering in my faith when I ask him for wisdom. His wisdom is needed in my life every day. So many decisions that are made and oh how I need his wisdom. May I be diligent to seek him, his will and his purpose for my life.

Prayer - Father, I pray in faith for your wisdom today. You are the God who loves me. You will give us your heart if only we ask you for it. This day before me is a new day. A day to "do it right" for your glory. Please help me to be mindful to come to you and ask you in faith for your wisdom in every situation that should arise. In Yeshua's name. Amen.

Serve God not Wealth

Scripture - James 1:9-11 A believer who doesn't amount to much in this world should be glad, for he is great in the Lord's sight. But a rich man should be glad that his riches mean nothing to the Lord, for he will soon be gone, like a flower that has lost its beauty and fades away withered - killed by the scorching summer sun. So it is with rich men. They will soon die and leave behind all their busy activities.

Observation - The worldly riches that meany people set their sites on amount to nothing in God's eyes. It is better to live a modest life on this earth and be happy and keep your focus on God. I love the analogy of the flower and the scorching sun. We live in the desert in Southern California, and once the sun beats down on the plants for a few weeks, they wither. So it is with the rich. All looks so good, but when death comes, they are no more in their place on this earth.

Application - I will not seek worldly wealth, but will set my sight on the goodness of the Lord. The riches of this world are irrelevant as this world is not my home.

Prayer - Father, please help me to prioritize my life and be content with loving and knowing you and loving others. Give me your heart. In Yeshua's name. Amen

Having a Servant Heart and Knowing Trials Will Come

Scripture - James 1:1-4 From James, as servant of God and of the Lord Yeshua. to God's faithful people who have been scattered. My brothers and sisters, be very happy when you are tested in different ways. You know that such testing of your faith produces endurance. Endure until your testing is over. Then you will be mature and complete, and you won't need anything.

Observation - I found this scripture most touching this morning. James, even though he was the brother of Yeshua, calls himself his servant. James could have been puffed up just knowing that his brother was the Son of Yahweh, but he took on servitude.

Also, any time of testing we find ourselves in are to help us become mature. And please remember - THE TIME OF TESTING WILL END!

Application - When James said he was a servant of God and Yeshua, that meant his life no longer was his own. We must get to this point of total surrender and realize it is God who calls the shots in our lives. When I am being tested, it is so that the very character of God will be formed in me.

Prayer - Father, I pray that you will help me to be your servant to further your kingdom. I will trust you to bring trials into my life that produce mature fruit, so that others around me will see your love. Amen.

Life is Hectic - But God

We really live in a stress-filled society. Life is so very hectic. Running here and there. Working so hard that you can hardly breathe. Somehow I don't think this is the way it was meant to be. Women were really sold a bad bill of goods. Instead of staying home and taking care of our children, someone thought it a better idea to go to work to make more money. This way you can pay someone else to basically raise your children. But Yahweh gave those children to you - not to the caregiver that you pay so well.

Who suffers for this whole turn-around society? We all do. First of all, our children suffer. When I was a child, I was secure knowing that routines were daily. You went to school, then you had a snack when you got home. Homework was next. Practicing the piano for 1/2 hour daily was next on the list. Then there were chores to do. Last of all, there was play. Everyone worked together to keep the household up and running. But there was a Mom there to make sure that everything ran as smoothly as possible. This is not the way in today's world and we wonder why we have so many children who can't focus in school. Dah!

Then the mothers suffer also. They are burning the candle at both ends. We are trying to work a 40 hour week outside the home, and still keep up with chores in the home. Add a commute to the mix of an hour and a half daily. Who cooks dinner? Who makes sure the kids homework is completed?

But I must not dwell on the things that I cannot change.  I must focus on God and the many good things he has given to me. Life is hectic, but I am His child. He gives me rest one day out of seven. He fills my heart with his wonderful love. He has blessed me with an amazing husband and eight beautiful children. He has blessed me with 13 awesome grandchildren. And He gives me strength to make it through the trials of this life. What more could I ask for?

I'm Free

Scripture - Col. 2:11 It was through Christ's circumcision, that is, his death, that you were made free from the power of your sinful self.

Observation - I can't overcome the power of sin in my life in my own strength. What Yeshua did for me, by giving his life, is the only way. It is all about what he did for me. I trust in him and I am set free from sins and strongholds in my life.

Application - I will not live in the past other than to look back to the love Yeshua has for me. He died to set me free. It is not by any works that I do; it is only by the one work He did by dying for my sins that I am free.

Prayer - Thank you, Father for the finished work of Yeshua. He paid the price whith his blood. He laid down his life so I can be free - free from my sinful self. Amen.

Once Separated - Now Friends

Scripture - Col. 1:21 At one time you were separated from God. You were His enemies in your minds, and the evil things you did were against Yahweh. But now Yahweh has made you His friends again. He did this through Christ's death...

Observation - I can remember in my life before I met Jesus (Yeshua) that I was very much separated from God. Many years ago my life was full of evil. I did not walk with God. Then someone shared with me how I could be a friend of God's. This hope is through faith in what Christ did for me out of love when he died on the cross from my sin. My life was forever changed.

Application - There are many lost people who need to hear how they can be God's friends. We must share what Yeshua did on the cross for them.

Prayer - Father, help us show others the way. Amen!

Who are the 144,000?

Scripture - Revelation 7:4 And I heard the number of those who were sealed, one hundred and forty-four thousand sealed from every tribe of the sons of Israel

Observation - Who are the 144,000? The ten northern tribes were dispersed among the nations. Those of the southern kingdom are the ones that we call Jews today from the tribes of Judah (and Benjamin). They returned to the land and they know who they are. This passage goes even further to say that there will be 12,000 from each tribe. Is it not possible that some of us will be part of the 144,000?

Application - I don't really have an application for this one. Just pondering who the 144,000 are this evening. Prior to this passage, verse 3 says they will be sealed on their foreheads. In the times that we live in, it is a possibility that we will be on the earth during this time period. We must hold fast to our faith. Even if we are not in the 144,000, we could very likely be part of the great multitude from every nation, tribe, peoples, and tongues who cry out in verse 10 "Salvation to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb."

Prayer - Father, please help us to walk ever so close to you in the days that we live in. There are many tribulations coming. Let us be part of your plan to usher in the second coming of Yeshua. Help my brothers and sisters to remain strong in you. Amen.

Don't Worry - Pray!

Scripture - Philippians 4:6,7 Do not worry about anything, but pray and ask God for everything you need, always giving thanks. And God's peace, which is so great we cannot understand it, will keep your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

Observation - God shares with us some secrets to overcome stress in this passage. He tells us not to worry. He tells us to replace worry with prayer. He also tells us to be thankful. We can take the things that concern us to the Lord in prayer. That in itself will lift a load of stress and worry off our shoulders and place it on the Lord's. His shoulders are much better equiped to handle the load. This scripture also tells us that God's peace will keep our minds and hearts in Christ Jesus.

Application - I choose to pray instead of worrying. I choose to be thankful. I will trust the Lord to give me His peace.

Prayer - Father, you know my needs better than I do. I ask you Lord to meet my needs. I will remember to praise you in everything, even when I don't feel like it. Amen

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Sin and a Curling Iron - Dogs and Faith

So, this week had trials for me. Sometimes life is full of them. There are spiritual lessons to be gleaned from trials in our lives. The first thing that happened to me was that I got burnt by my curling iron on Tuesday. As my arm (by the elbow) was grazed by the hot iron, I thought it would be okay. But, after three days of having a bandaid and neosporin on it, the healing process just wasn't happening. So, on Friday evening, I headed to the urgent care. The doctor said it was infected and prescribed some antibiotics.

Life lesson - The curling iron was an external force foreign to my body. Even though it has its purpose, if not used correctly, it can cause harm. Sometimes we let external forces influence us and they cause us spiritual harm. Just like I thought my arm would be okay, the heat of the iron caused damage. The full blown infection wasn't seen for a few days. I tried using external medication and covering it to expedite the healing process. But once infection had entered, it needed treatment from internal medicine. This is so much like sin in our lives. We try to cover it up (as with the bandaid) and heal it from the outside. But the healing must come from the Holy Spirit moving inside our very being and ridding us of the organisms that have entered due to carelessness and neglect.

The second thing that happened was that there was a thunder storm. We live in the desert, so it doesn't rain much. But when it does, there is usually alot of thunder, lightening, and wind. We have three dogs; Paco, Hope, and Gizmo. Paco is a black chow mix and gets totally freaked out by storms and wind. He has, on several occasions, chewed through wood fences and even door jams because of his fear. Hope is a white elderly poodle who is deaf and doesn't have many teeth left. Gizzy is the ugliest dog I have ever seen, but he is lovable. He is part chihuahua. When the wind started to blow and the storm was upon them, Paco just wanted out of the situation. Because he was so fearful, he rammed the gate open to the front yard. This made it so that all of the dogs were out of the backyard. Paco and Gizzy had enough sense to stay in the front yard, but Hope (who has always tried to get out of the yard and run) ran off. It is over 24 hours since she left, and we don't know where she is. Hopefully the pound picked her up and we will check after the weekend.

Life lesson - If you can think of the dogs as people (which I know they are not), there is a lesson here. Paco was totally motivated by fear, and it affected Hope's destiny. We, as believers in Yeshua (Jesus), must not be motivated by fear. Our faith is key to our destiny. So, just remember to walk in faith. And if you need more, you can find it in the Word of God. Faith comes by hearing the Word of God.

Be blessed brothers and sisters. Hopefully this ministers to someone.

Under a New Priesthood - Yeshua

Scripture - I Kings 13:33  After this incident, King Jeroboam did not stop doing evil. He continued to choose priests for the places of worship from among all the people. Anyone who wanted to be a priest for the places of worship was allowed to be one. In this way the family of Jeroboam sinned, and this sin caused its ruin and destruction from the earth.

Observation - Just because a person wanted to be a priest wasn't a good enough reason in God's eyes. God had standards for the priests in the temple. He required holiness and the person had to be above reproach to serve and they had to be born into the bloodline of the priests.

Application - We are saved through the bloodline of Yeshua. We can serve the Lord without condemnation. We are supposed to press on and follow the Lord until our destiny has been reached. So brothers and sisters, continue to follow Yahweh.

Prayer - Father, thank you that I can serve you in worship - not because of who I am or what I have done. It is only through what Yeshua accomplished on the cross that I can go into the place of worship and lead others in that place. Amen.

From Pat's Pen - Mature Ones in Christ Disciple New Believers

Scripture - 2 Corinthians 11:3 But I am afraid lest as the serpent deceived Eve by his craftiness, your minds should be led astray from the simplicity and purity of devotion to Christ.

Observation - Satan fooled Eve into believing she could progress further spiritually apart from the Word of God. She could obtain (spiritual) knowledge of good and evil even though it might violate or neglect something that God had commanded. After all, how could God deny her the deeper spirituality - that wouldn't be fair.

Many in the church are led astray from "the simplicity and purity of devotion to Christ" in the search for a spiritual experience. They believe the simple and pure devotion to Christ is for the baby Christian. The mature Christian can venture in "Holy Spirit" power. Whereas the mature Christian may be established enough to walk in God's Spirit and power the danger comes when a church body is created for this "mature Christian" experience. What happens when new believers are created in such a church? They will lack foundation and base their devotion on experience and feelings.

Application - Every church needs to be prepared to teach and disciple new believers in the elemental things of their faith. Believers need to be taught NEVER to stray from the simplicity and purity of devotion to Christ. Churches need to begin such a ministry with mature Christians who will not throw "spiritually advanced" things on their disciples, but will stand beside them and nurture them on the foundational principles of our faith - our relationship with Christ.

Prayer - Lord, you begin the work in each new believer. Your cross is the source of all grace we receive. Never let us stray far from that fountain of grace. It is there we find you waiting and nowhere else. Amen.

Do What Is Right

Scripture - I John 3: 7Little children, let no one deceive you! The one who does what is right is righteous, just as He is righteous. 8 The one who commits[f] sin is of the Devil, for the Devil has sinned from the beginning. The Son of God was revealed for this purpose: to destroy the Devil’s works. 9 Everyone who has been born of God does not sin,[g] because His[h] seed remains in him; he is not able to sin,[i] because he has been born of God. 10 This is how God’s children—and the Devil’s children—are made evident.

Observation - How do we know who is right with Yahweh? This passage seems very clear. If we do what is right! It is very black and white in this passage. If you do right, then you are righteous. If you remain in sin, then you are not. Yeshua came to destroy the works of the evil one in our lives. He did this by his laying down his life for the sins of all mankind. When we accept this wonderful free gift, everything about our life should be touched. If we truly have the Holy Spirit (Ruach) living inside of us, sin should sicken our inmost being. The Father has planted his seed inside of us. We must be careful to take care of His seed. The Devil wants nothing more than to deceive us and make us think that we are unable to walk through life as the righteous seed of Yahweh. But we can, friends. 

Application - More and more each day, we need to find out how to walk out the righteous walk that Messiah prepared for us. Otherwise, his death and resurrection was in vain. It is my responsibility to nourish and nurture the seed given to me. This is totally doable friends through the power of the Ruach, prayer, and spending time in the Word of Yah.

Prayer - Father, help me to walk according to your righteous statutes by the leading of the Holy Spirit. Pour your Spirit over me and cause me to hunger and thirst for your righteousness. May your Word guide me into all truth. In the name of Yahshua. Amen.

The Body In Action

Scripture - Philippians 2:34 When you do things, do not let selfishness or pride be your guide. Instead, be humble and give more honor to others than to yourselves. Do not be interested only in your own life, but be interested in the lives of others.

Observation - I choose to be selfish or truly interested in the well being of others. In the congregation especially we need to be concerned for others around us who may have needs. We must begin to communicate with each other (open our chests to each other), so we will know how to pray and help one another.

Application - I must choose not to be selfish but to be interested in others.

Prayer - Father, make me sensitive by the power of your Holy Spirit to the needs of those that you place in my path. Amen!

Hope for the Nation and the Church

From Pat's Pen (my husband is the author of this one)

Scripture - I Samuel 8:5 And they said to him, "Behold you have grown old and your sons do not walk in your ways. Now appoint a king for us to judge us like all nations."

Observation - The novelty of God's work through Samuel had grown old in Israel. The people could not see God's vision for their future - but they were all too aware of what the other nations were doing. They desired to do and to have, not what God wanted for them, but what the other nations did and what they had.

Application - There is an application for the church and for the nation from this. 1. Nation - this country is based on a representative democratic principle - people rule. As long as that people felt personally answerable to God, society could benefit from such a system. With God taken more and more out of society, the values which His presence ensured are removed. Values, which controlled a peoples vices and built up their virtues, are eliminated. After all the layers are stripped away, the rule of God is spurned for a submission to Satan. 2. Church (congregation) - the church tends to gravitate to novelty. Unfortunately, novelty more often than not tends to be how popular society/culture expresses itself. Our behavior (and programs) becomes indistinguishable from the world. Our sanctity and separation is non-existent. If the message of salvation begins appearing old and worn and boring, it is tweaked to be more acceptable. It should be US being "tweaked" so that we are more acceptable (or conformed) to what Yahweh wants us to be.

Prayer - God - your wisdom surpasses all mans' vain attempts of thought. Your intention are all for the good while my own heart is constantly prone to evil. Reveal your wisdom to me, to guide my own path and to give me words to speak in the teaching of others. I will have no other kings or gods before you. Where does my help come from - from You my God and King.

Turn From Sin and Sing

    

Scripture - Ephesians 5: 15Pay careful attention, then, to how you walk—not as unwise people but as wise— 16 making the most of the time,[e] because the days are evil. 17 So don’t be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is. 18 And don’t get drunk with wine, which leads to reckless actions, but be filled by the Spirit:

19 speaking to one another
in psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs,
singing and making music
from your heart to the Lord,
20 giving thanks always for everything
to God the Father
in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ,
submitting to one another
in the fear of Christ.

Observation - We live in an evil day brothers and sisters. The world we live in is a very dark place. There is no room for foolishness in our daily walk. Just like the above scriptures say, if we make the choice to intoxicate ourselves, the trail of heartache goes on and on. People around us get hurt by our actions and we sacrifice not only relationships, but our own well being. And most of all we sacrifice the wonderful life that God has planned for us. Yet there is hope. The hope is that as long as we have breath in our body, we can turn around and repent. When we do, our loving Father takes our hand and says "Come with me." Jesus said, "Come to me all who are burdened, and I will give you rest." 

Upon returning to God, we will find so much happiness, peace, love, and joy, that it will cause a new song in our heart. And our lives become a praise to our Lord Jesus (Yeshua). He is our King. The king of kings and Lord of Lords. His Holy Spirit will cause rivers of living water to flow through our very beings.

Application - There is no time left for reckless living. Here is the definition of reckless utterly unconcerned about the consequences of some action; without caution; 

careless  If you are living this kind of life - repent. To repent means  to feel such sorrow for sin or fault as to be disposed to change one's life for the better. Come home to the Father through the Son. He is waiting for you. At that point, there is singing to be done. Our lives are to be for the glory and praise of our Father. We all still have many trials to go through on this earth, but it is so much better to go through them holding on to Daddy's hand instead of lying on the ground kicking our feet when our life is all messed up.

Prayer - Father, thank you for giving your Holy Spirit to your children. You show us the way to go from a pitiful life to a life of praise. You show us the areas in our lives that need correction and bring us back into alignment with your glorious plan for our lives. Help me to focus on you and live my life with the beautiful song of your heart for your people. In Jesus Yeshua's name. Amen.

Living Stones Full of Purpose

Scripture - Romans 12 - 4 For just as there are many parts that compose one body, but the parts don’t all have the same function; 5 so there are many of us, and in union with the Messiah we comprise one body, with each of us belonging to the others. 6 But we have gifts that differ and which are meant to be used according to the grace that has been given to us.

Observation - Just as the Father created the human body with different parts and functions, so it is in the body of Yeshua. There are no cookie cutter believers. We are all so unique. The Bible says that he wove me together in the womb. Wow! That is so awesome! Does He know what He is doing? Of course He does. He is G_d! Even in the same way, he is building us all up in Messiah Yeshua. We may all be very different, but somehow we are all part of the body of Messiah. This means that we are all part of each other. The next verses of scripture go into the different gifts that we are given to function in the body. Some of these gifts are teaching, prophecy, counseling, exhortation, and giving. These gifts are given to people so that they can help others to grow spiritually. We all come to Yeshua through the blood sacrifice given at Calvary. But how do we live after we have come? Who will show us the way? The teachers, prophets, counselors, exhorters, etc. They are parts of the body to help us. Every stone in the building is important. (from Jim Staley's sermon on Sabbath). The big stones need the little stones to hold them in place. No one is without value in the kingdom of Yahweh. 

Application - We are to value each others' differences in backgrounds and giftings. There is no room for jealousy as we all have one purpose. The purpose is to bring others into the kingdom and help them to find their way through this life. Every stone is important. They are not all the same though, and shouldn't be expected to be the same. The Holy Spirit blows his breath on the children of Yahweh and gives them life. We must go forth by his Spirit and compel them to come in and learn of Him. 

Prayer - Father, help us to accept each other in the body. You have made each of us unique and for specific purpose. Grow us up in you Father. Use your children to show the world your glory. This world is a very dark place. Let us be your light to those around us without hope. In Yeshua's name. Amen.

Too Many Visits and Too Much Honey

Scripture - Proverbs 25:16, 17  If you find honey, eat only what you need;
    for if you eat too much of it, you may throw it up;
17 so don’t visit your neighbor too much,
    or he may get his fill of you and come to hate you.

Observation - I have contemplated on this verse many times in my life. It uses the analogy of eating too much honey and visiting your neighbor too much. When we eat too much honey, it makes us sick. In much the same way when we spend too much time socializing with our neighbor, it may cause them to be tired of seeing you. We see something along the same lines in I Timothy 5:13 also where Paul is telling the young widows not to be idle as that may cause them to be busybodies and gossips. Any time we (especially women) are idle, the outcome is not good. We must learn to be good wives and mothers. Those of us who are single need to keep busy also, living to please the Lord. In the modern age of technology that we live in this may also mean keeping out of other people's business via social media. We need to grow up in Messiah and live a life that is pleasing to him.

Application - As a working mother, it is imperative that I try to use my time to bring glory to G-d. Life is so hectic for me that I hardly have time to visit anyone. But if I do, it is so important to not get involved in their business. Sometimes we need to work through some things in life. This may cause us to feel the need to share with others. Just try to remember that when someone is sharing something with you, they don't always want a solution. Maybe they just need someone to listen as they talk through it. 

Prayer - Father, I know my thoughts are a bit scattered tonight, but you know my heart. Help me to be pleasing to you in my workplace and at home. I trust you, your Word, and the working of the Holy Spirit in my life. Let me be careful to mind my own business as I have enough on my own plate. Let my life shine for you. In Yeshua's name. Amen.

What Manner of Person Should I Be?

Scripture - James 1:22-27  Don’t deceive yourselves by only hearing what the Word says, but do it!23 For whoever hears the Word but doesn’t do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror, 24 who looks at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. 25 But if a person looks closely into the perfect Torah, which gives freedom, and continues, becoming not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work it requires, then he will be blessed in what he does.

26 Anyone who thinks he is religiously observant but does not control his tongue is deceiving himself, and his observance counts for nothing. 27 The religious observance that God the Father considers pure and faultless is this: to care for orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being contaminated by the world.

Observation - This passage is jam packed full of nuggets. James says it differently than the other writers of the New Testament. He holds us accountable for how we live our lives out each day. He tells of the importance of not only hearing the Word of Yahweh, but carrying out what we learn when we read it. In this version, The Complete Jewish Bible, we can see a more Hebraic way to look at verse 25. This verse confirms the fact that the perfect Torah gives freedom. What does this mean. I believe it means that as we walk along in life between the fence lines of Yahweh's instruction manual, we will find freedom. If we live life His way, we will know how to walk.

Also, it is clear that we are to care for orphans and widows. And watch our sharp tongues. 

Application - We must continue to read God's word so that we will know the expectations he has for us. In order to walk it out, it is important to ask the Ruach (Holy Spirit) to help us. Without his help, it is impossible. And lastly, we must stop making excuses for our shortcomings. I, for one, have a tendency to be sharp-tongued. This is not acceptable to God and may be hurtful to others around me.

Prayer - Father, I pray that your Holy Spirit will empower me to live a life worthy of your calling. As I read your Word, please enlighten me to areas of my life that are not pleasing to you. Help me to look for opportunities to serve you as I walk through my days. Make me sensitive to the calling of the Ruach Hakodesh (Holy Spirit). Help me to realize that I may be the only Yeshua that someone will see today. And if that is true, what manner of woman should I be? In Yeshua's name. Amen.