3 November 2015

Scriptures:

• John 1:1-18
• Zechariah 7
• 2 Kings 3
• Psalm 94

Observations:

In John, we have a passage that can be difficult to follow. What John is doing is giving a presentation of the Godhood of Christ (vv. 1-5), the purpose of Christ (vv. 9-14, 16-18), and the purpose of John (vv. 6-8, 15).

In Zechariah, we see men of Israel entreating with the prophets, seeking the Lord's favour. The Lord's response commented on their performance of prescribed observations and reminded them of the intention of his law: to render true judgments, show kindness and mercy, to not oppress the widow, orphan, traveler, or poor, and to not plot another's downfall. He also showed their actions to his decree and so, just as they hardened themselves to the Lord's call, he hardened himself to their call.

In 2 Kings, we see Moab choosing not to honour a trade agreement made with Ahab, the former king of Israel. As such, Jehoram, Jehoshaphat, and the king of Edom ally to send Moab packing. Along the way, they meet with Elisha who, for the sake of Jehoshaphat (the king of Judah and a godly man) and Jehoshaphat only, prophesies provision in the desert and victory over Moab, which then comes true within the next days.

In the psalm, we see a plea out to God to show his vengeance and judge the wicked and ungodly, they who say that God neither sees nor hears what they do. He praises God as the one who teaches law and disciplines and gives God praise as protector and avenger of those who call on him.

Application:

So, overarching themes: 

In Zechariah, we see what God truly demands and how he disciplines his people. 

In 2 Kings, we see the rewards of having the favour of God, of being counted as a godly individual.

In the psalm, we see a reminder of how God acts on behalf of the godly against the wicked.

In John, we see God acting for the benefit of all, that those who believe may be considered godly.

What does a godly individual look like? Well, in a nutshell, a godly individual is one who loves God with his heart, soul, mind, & strength, that is, he or she is seeking after God in earnest, not engaging in rote rites for the sake of tradition. We see in Hosea that he wants more than burnt offerings, he wants the hearts and loyalty of his people. He wants the genuine outpourings of true faith (Zec 7:9-10). 

The same is still true today, post-Christ. We can call ourselves Christians and claim to be followers of God, but, as James wrote, our faith, in order to prove itself genuine, should display itself in works.

Now, we may ask, "Why?" After all, there are many who disobey God and yet, they prosper.

Temporarily, yes, but not eternally. Plus, while we may not receive physical benefit, sometimes, as in the case of Jehoshaphat, godliness reaps its own rewards.

Prayer:

Lord, godliness is something I find myself needing in increasing amounts. I am aware of my shortcomings, of the disparity between myself and you and I praise you for your mercy, for I cannot come close, even by my best of works.

I ask that you would train in me mindfulness, particularly of you and your instruction and of my wife and interacting with/understanding her emotionally.

Be with the Christians in Algeria. Give them the courage to stand strong for you, despite what backlash they might face. I pray that you would appoint bold leaders to that nation.

Also, be with my wife and I as we pray through nations each week, seeking your direction and will for us and grant us insight into your will regarding a specific opportunity to serve you.

Really, help me to engage with y wife emotionally in much better ways.

Amen