2 February 2016

Scripture:

• Psalm 32
• Genesis 29:1-30
• 2 Chronicles 6
• Luke 22:47-23:25

Observations:

In the psalm, we see David encouraging readers/listeners to confess their sins to God in faith, asking for his forgiveness.

Blessed is the one whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered.Blessed is the man against whom the Lord counts no iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no deceit.
For when I kept silent, my bones wasted away through my groaning all day long.For day and night your hand was heavy upon me; my strength was dried up as by the heat of summer.
I acknowledged my sin to you, and I did not cover my iniquity;I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the Lord,” and you forgave the iniquity of my sin.

In these first five verses, we see David proclaiming how those who keep a clean slate before the Lord, openly bringing their sins in confession, are blessed. As an explanation, he describes the weight and agony that accompany holding on to sin and concealing our wrongdoing before God before describing the release and freedom given by God when we do come and repent.

In Genesis, we see Jacob working for Laban to marry his daughter Rachel. We also see Laban's duplicity in marrying her older sister, Leah, to him first, citing local custom.

In 2 Chronicles, we see Solomon addressing the people at the temple opening, reminding them of what God has done in the past and what let to the building of the temple. We also see him offering a (rather long) prayer to God commissioning the temple for his use. A large portion of Solomon's prayer, I find it interesting to note, deal with God interacting with Israelites and others who call on his name. Solomon is asking that those who have sinned and are experiencing punishment, if they confess their sins and seek forgiveness, be forgiven and, in some cases, their punishment brought to an end.

In Luke, we have the events leading from Jesus' betrayal and capture to Pilate handing Jesus over to the Sanhedrin to do with as they wished. What I find interesting is that the Sanhedrin, already infuriated with Jesus, found him guilty of blasphemy for calling himself God. Perhaps if they stopped to consider the scripture instead of their assumptions, they may have come to a different conclusion. Nevertheless, they did not have the power to execute Jesus, so they took him to Pilate under a contrived claim (somewhat feasible) that he was attempting to usurp Caesar, calling himself the "King of the Jews". Pilate found nothing wrong with him and sent him to Herod, who found nothing wrong with him and sent him back to Pilate, who reiterated that they saw no reason to execute him. The Sanhedrin, then basically bullied him into releasing a death row convict and putting Jesus in his place.

It's funny how it was the religious leaders who put Jesus to death. The government had very little to do with it.

Application:

Confession and forgiveness.

Too often, I merely ask God for help in managing or overcoming my sins. That's all well and good, but I need the humility that comes with confession. My pride in assuming that trying to overcome my sin means I am repentant is offensive to God. Just because I ask for help to overcome sin, doesn't mean I am contrite and repentant over it. Just because I am angry or irritated at my sin and do not desire any part of it, it doesn't mean I am repentant.

However, if I am repentant, I try to overcome my sin, ask for help, feel anger and antipathy towards my sin, and desire to be rid of it.

Remember the logical fallacy:
A --> B
B :. A

Just because the manifestations produced by a specific mindset are present, it doesn't mean the mindset itself is there.

1 February 2016

Scriptures:

• Psalm 31
• Genesis 28:10-22
• 2 Chronicles 5
• Luke 22:1-46

Observations:

The psalms are always complicated for me, as they follow the mood of the psalmist rather than engaging in a specific point, but here's what I see. The psalmist is referring to God as his refuge and is declaring that he is entrusting himself in God. He asks for grace, explaining how he feels forgotten and cast away. He asks for protection and rescue from his enemies and then concludes the psalm with three stanzas of praise to God for his goodness, faithfulness, and love, encouraging all who believe in God to love him.

In Genesis, we see God speaking to Jacob, reiterating the covenants made to Isaac and Abraham. I find Jacob's response interesting, though. In a way, it looks like he's saying, "If you'll provide for me, then I'll call you God." He does, however, commission an impromptu temple on the site where the tabernacle would be kept for many years as well as being one of the first to formally offer a 10% tithe.

In 2 Chronicles, we see the completion of the temple and the installment of the Ark of the Covenant and other tabernacle implements in the new temple. As the Ark is being placed in the temple, we see an account of a massive number of sacrifices being made and an account of the glory of God entering and filling the temple like a cloud.

In Luke, we have some more of the Passion week happenings. First we see Judas colluding with the high priests to betray Jesus. Following that, we see Passover, the last supper, the institution of communion, and Jesus' announcement that one of the disciples would betray him. Jesus then took the opportunity of a dispute to introduce the idea of humble, servant leadership to the disciples before informing Peter of his future denials of Jesus. Last, we have Jesus praying on the mount of olives.

Application:

29 January 2016

Scriptures:

• Psalm 28
• Genesis 26
• 2 Chronicles 2
• Luke 19:28-46

Observations:

The psalm today starts off as may of David's psalms do, in crying out to be seen and heard, asking not to be dragged down into judgment along with all the other nations. What stands out to me is tat, at the end of the psalm, David has an about-face in tone. Where he starts off asking for God's ear, he then exclaims that the Lord is to be blessed because the Lord hears him. David then praises him calling him his strength and shield, whom he trusts, and the shield and refuge for his people.

In Genesis, we see a long exposition about Isaac. First, we see God renewing Abraham's covenant, promising to Isaac the things that were promised to Abraham. Second, we see Isaac's interactions with Abimelech and the Philistines where he was living. Isaac had tried to pass Rebekah off as his sister, thinking he might be killed to get her (like father, like son). Abimelech scolded him for it, but didn't throw him out as pharaoh did to his father. No, the Philistines sent him out because he began to become very wealthy from his harvests and herds. So, he traveled in the area, re-digging his father's wells and coming into minor conflict over some new ones. During that time, God speaks to Isaac, confirming his promise. After all this, Abimelech approaches Isaac as he did Abraham and asks for peace between them because he can see that God is with Isaac.

In 2 Chronicles, Solomon begins work on the temple, calling upon the connections David had set before the end of his reign. We also see Solomon making this statement about the building of a temple: "But who is able to build him a house, since heaven, even highest heaven, cannot contain him?" To me, that stands out, because here, Solomon has a great image of God's magnitude. Now, what I find also to be interesting is that Solomon takes a census of the resident aliens in Israel and puts them all to work.

In Luke, we see three connected events. Jesus is entering Jerusalem for the last time and he tells his disciples to go find a specific donkey for him to ride in on. As he rides in, the people gather in praise, exclaiming praises and thanks to God. Jesus also weeps over Jerusalem, prophesying against it about its fall. Last, he heads to the temple and clears it of all the merchants and money-changers.

Application:

I think the biggest thing for me is the confidence in and reverence for God that is evident in all of these passages. That changes us, if we allow it. 

28 January 2016

Scriptures:

• Psalm 27
• Genesis 25:19-34
• 2 Chronicles 1
• Luke 18:31-19:27

Observations:

The psalm today is one proclaiming God as the psalmist's salvation and stronghold. In him, he has confidence, knowing that God's protection is more effective than any weapon or army. What the psalmist asks is to dwell in the house of the Lord, to look upon God, and to be seen and answered by God. The psalmist begs God not to turn his face away, but to teach him his way and to lead him on the straight path. He then closes with a statement of faith and conviction, knowing that God will answer.

In Genesis, we see the conception and birth of Esau and Jacob, as well as God's words to Rebekah about the two of them, how they would both become great nations and that the oldest (Esau) would serve the youngest (Jacob). That prophecy plays out in the second half of the passage in which Esau sells his birthright to Jacob for a bowl of stew.

In 2 Chronicles, we see the beginning of Solomon's reign. He started off really well, seeking God at the tabernacle and, when God offered anything to the new king, he responded asking for wisdom, that he would be able to rightly govern the people of Israel. So, God granted him his request and also commended him on it, lavishing on him additionally, wealth and honour. We see immediately following this conversation how God blessed Solomon and Israel with abundant wealth.

In Luke, we have a number of things happening. First, Jesus tells his disciples of his impending death (again) and the disciples don't realise what he's talking about (again). 

Second, we have Jesus healing a blind man. This altercation strikes me as a little odd. We have a beggar shouting to Jesus as he is passing by, calling him the Son of David (i.e. the Messiah) and asking Jesus to have mercy on him. The people around Jesus try and shush him, but after the second cry, Jesus waves him over and bluntly asks what he wants him to do for him. The man replies that he would like his sight back, and Jesus tells him to go, for his faith has made him well. The way I read this passage, Jesus was very blunt about the whole affair and yet, I note that, again, it was the man's faith that Jesus cited being the agent that made him well. The man had enough faith to be bold in reaching out to Jesus and to bluntly ask Jesus to heal him. There was no doubt in him that we can see. None whatsoever. I would do well to keep his example in mind.

Third, we have Jesus' interaction with Zacchaeus. The man had run ahead to try and get a glimpse of Jesus, spurred on by faith, curiosity, or maybe something else entirely. Jesus stopped and engaged directly with him, declaring that he would be dining in Zacchaeus' house that day. What stands out to me is not Zacchaeus' declarations of the good he will do as evidence of a changed life, but the crowd's grumbling at how Jesus had gone to dine with a sinner and Jesus' statement that he came to seek and save the lost.

The last passage is a parable that is seen in a couple different iterations, but it narrows down to the idea of putting to good use that which God has given to us, because God is one who demands much of us. So, we should be investing what we have been given - our wisdom, knowledge, skills, assets - to the benefit of God's kingdom, not merely laying around with the tools that have been given, lest they be taken away.

Application:

There were a couple elements that stood out from today's readings. The psalms always strike a chord with me because of their honest yearnings, beautiful language, and ability to express emotions that I can barely describe in myself. The last parable stood out, because I am starting to see that, through all my begging God for freedom from sin and a better relationship with my wife, God has been giving me the tools I need to do so. I just haven't been paying attention or using them. So, I'm beginning to pick them up, to learn how to do things God's way instead of James' way.

27 January 2016

Scriptures:

• Psalm 26
• Genesis 25:1-18
• 1 Chronicles 29:22-30
• Luke 18:1-30

Observations:

In the psalm, we see David asking the Lord for vindication, proclaiming to God how he has searched and endeavoured after him, avoiding the wicked and concerning himself with what is righteous.

In Genesis, we see the remarriage of Abraham, the death and burial of Abraham (next to Sarah, attended by Isaac & Ishmael), and the descendants of the sons of Abraham's second wife and those of Ishmael.

In 1 Chronicles, we see Solomon's coronation & David's death.

In the first parable in Luke, we see Jesus telling his followers to be persistent in their petitions to God. In the second, we see Jesus demonstrating the importance of humility before God. Following that, we see how Christ viewed children and the nature that faith should have. Last, we see Christ demanding not only obedience to God, but complete sacrifice of self, noting that it is not by the accumulation of wealth or deeds one gains access to heaven, but through God alone

Application:

Honestly, I don't see a great deal that applies to the circumstance I'm in other than to pray consistently

26 January 2016

Scriptures:

• Psalm 25
• Genesis 24
• 1 Chronicles 29:1-22
• Luke 17:11-37

Observations:

In the psalm, we see David seeking God's presence. He is entrusting himself to God, putting himself under the Lord's grace and teaching. Here, we see a calm, spiritual maturity that longs for the presence of God, as we can see in vv 16-18

"Turn to me and be gracious to me, for I am lonely and afflicted.The troubles of my heart are enlarged; bring me out of my distresses.Consider my affliction and my trouble, and forgive all my sins."

 Okay, so David is very expressive in his tone, but the tone I get as I read this psalm is one of wise spiritual maturity that yearns for God, not quite as some distant salvation, but as a companion and teacher who has stepped away for a moment.

In Genesis, we see the finding of Rebekah, Isaac's wife. Abraham desired that Isaac not marry one of the local Canaanites, but someone from his home. So, his servant went to Abraham's home town, whereupon he prayed, asking for a specific sign to indicate Isaac's wife. God obliged and Isaac was found a wife.

In 1 Chronicles, we see David announcing what he has stored up for use in building the temple, calling for a freewill offering from many of the citizens. We also see him praying over the building of the temple, asking for God's blessing, and offering sacrifices to God numbering in the thousands.

In Luke, we see first, the healing of ten lepers, of whom only one, a Samaritan, came back to thank Jesus.
Second, we see Jesus teaching on the coming of the kingdom of God. In response to the pharisees' question, Jesus says that it sill come in a way not discernible to the eye, because the Kingdom of God is in their midst (Presumably speaking of himself). To his disciples, he elaborated on this point further, telling them to disregard those who might point to the coming of God at a particular time or place. He also says that, instead, people will be about their normal, everyday business when, suddenly, as with Noah's flood or Sodom's destruction, the Kingdom of God will come.

Application:

The kingdom of god could come at any time. Therefore, I need to be busy with the work given to me. That being said, I also want to grow in spiritual maturity, having the perspective and demeanour of David in his deep relationship with God.

25 January 2016

Scriptures:

• Psalm 24
• Genesis 23
• 1 Chronicles 28
• Luke 16:1-17:10

Observations:

In the psalm today, we see three things. First, we have an acknowledgement of God's ownership of the earth by virtue of his being its creator. Second, we see man's interaction with God. Third, we have an urging to the gates [of Jerusalem?] to look and see God, the King of Glory, and let him in.

In Genesis, we see Abraham burying his wife, Sarah. In greater detail, we see the account of his discussion with the Hittites, whose land he was passing through, attempting to find a suitable tomb for his wife. I found the Hittites' response to be very curious: "You are a prince of God among us". It reminds me somewhat of Abimelech's words regarding Abraham. It seems that, as Abraham grew closer to God, the people around him began to see God reflected in him.

In 1 Chronicles, it appears as though we have David's passing of the baton to Solomon. First, we have his exhortation to all of his servants and staff, the officials, and the military to honour God and follow his commandments, that they may pass the land on to their children. Second, we have David speaking directly to Solomon. The first thing David tells his son is to seek God and the second is his plan and groundwork for the temple, detailed even to the weight of gold to be used in the temple affects.

In Luke, I am having a somewhat difficult time understanding this first parable, the one of the dishonest manager. I understand his firing for embezzlement. I understand his reasonings for cutting his master's debtor's dues. In some ways, I understand the master's commendation for his shrewd dealing. I even understand Christ's excerpt at the end of this passage. I just don't see how they all tie together, especially when you incorporate Jesus' response to the pharisees.

Following this, there is a short blurb on divorce and adultery before moving on to the next parable, the rich man and Lazarus. In this second parable, Jesus connects our conduct with our resultant eternities, showing the importance of loving our neighbours. He also speaks about the separation and finality of heaven and hell. What's interesting to me is the rich man's pleading to send a message to his brothers, which is refused on the grounds that if they would not repent because of Moses and the prophets, why would they repent because of someone rising from the dead.

Last, we have some of Jesus' comments on temptation, faith, and the role of a servant.

Applications:

24 January 2016

Scriptures:

• Psalm 23
• Genesis 22
• 1 Chronicles 27
• Luke 15

Observation:

In the psalm, we see David offering praise to God. In the first stanza, he praises God for his guardianship, leading him to what is good and right. In the second stanza, he praises God for his security and comfort. In the last stanza, he praises God for his provision.

In Genesis, we have the classic story of Abraham offering Isaac as an offering to God. Now, yes, we know that God explicitly commanded the Israelites to stay away from child sacrifice as it was detestable to him. So, what's the whole point here? The point was for Abraham to show that he valued God greater than he valued the gift of his son. Remember yesterday's passage on how our love for God should make it look like we hate our families in comparison? That is what's going on here. Now, just before Abraham actually kills his son, God sends an angel to stop him, commending Abraham for his faith, and providing a ram as a proper sacrifice.

In 1 Chronicles, we see the division of leaders for what I presume is the standing army of Israel. Each month, there is a leader and 24 000 men appointed to this position. In the counting of tribes and tribe leaders, we have a note mentioning David's census and the wrath of God that came about therefrom, mentioning how the census was left unfinished. We also see the appointing of the stewards of David's property and assets and the naming of those in roles with close access to David and his family.

In Luke, we see God's attitude towards the lost. 

The first parable he gives, in response to the pharisees scoffing at his dining with sinners (for the pharisees dined primarily with the righteous and well-regarded), is a simple question: who among them, if their flock of 100 were to lose 1 sheep, would not leave the safe 99, go search for the lost one, and, upon returning with the lost one, celebrate with his friend over the lost sheep returned to the flock? 

The second parable involves a woman who loses one of her 10 silver coins. What does she do? She turns the house upside-down diligently searching for the coin, rejoicing with her friends when it is found. The third parable takes this idea somewhat further. 

In this last parable, we see a young man insult his father by demanding his inheritance early. That same young man disrespects his inheritance by squandering it on the high life in a foreign country and, when his funds run out, he finds a job performing the lowest of work - feeding pigs. during this time, he decides to return to his father, asking forgiveness, and seeking to be counted as one of his father's hired servants. When he arrives home, we see his father forsake all dignity and run to him, meeting him in the road, restoring him to sonhood, and throwing a party for his return. We also see the man's other son, the obedient son who did not ask for his inheritance early and who had remained with the father the entire time. We see his bitterness at the father's celebration and his father's rebuke.

What's the whole point of these three parables? Jesus was using them to illustrate to the pharisees and scribes why he spent more time dining with the sinners than he did with the righteous. God rejoices more over one lost individual coming to salvation than over one, ten, 99 righteous individuals who never strayed. God's heart is for the redemption of the lost. So, why would Jesus not go and spend time with the sinners. After all, they are the ones needing him.

Application:

23 January 2016

Scriptures:

• Psalm 22
• Genesis 21:22-34
• 1 Chronicles 26
• Luke 14

Observations:

In the psalm, David is pleading with God to be heard and to be delivered. He is recounting his situation and how he feels everything is against him. Also, note that he is recounting the faithfulness of God to his people and to him in the past.

In Genesis, we see Abraham's treaty with Abimelech (I swear I keep overlapping passages by accident). Abimelech comes to Abraham where he is currently residing and entreats with him for fair dealings, testifying to Abraham's faith in God. Abraham responded with a counter-issue, that some of Abimelech's servants had robbed him of his well. So, the two made right by each other and sealed their treaty with seven of Abraham's ewes, freely offered.

In 1 Chronicles, we see the division of the gatekeepers, with their assignments by lot to the north or south entrances/walls. We also see the division of the treasurers and overseers/judges.

In Luke, again, we see Jesus confronting the pharisees about working on the Sabbath. This time, a man with an illness has walked in and, before healing the man, Jesus asks the pharisees and teachers whether it is lawful to heal on the Sabbath, healing the man in the face of their mute answers, then asking them whether they would even engage in work in the face of an emergency. 

Next, Jesus teaches on humility, advising his followers not to take for themselves the positions of greatest honour, but to take the positions of least honour, for it is better to be asked to move to a seat of higher honour than one of lower honour. 

Following this, Jesus gives advice on inviting others to a banquet, that is, to not invite those from whom you can expect a return invitation, but to invite those unable to repay you. From this statement, Jesus gives the parable of the great banquet, in which every one of a man's invited guests declined last minute with excuses. In response, the man sent his servant to invite the beggars, crippled, and all others whom he could find so that his house would be filled, for none of those who had scorned the invitation would have a place at the table. 

After this, Jesus is speaking to his followers about the cost of following him: 

1. We need to be so devoted to him that, by comparison, we hate our families, friends, and selves
2. We need to be prepared to die any death, even the most ignominious death
3. We need to renounce all we have (all ties, assets, pride, etc.)

As Jesus said, it is important that we bear these in consideration, because just as a builder weighs his budget before construction and a king measures his forces' strength before going to war, so we as Christians must weight the cost of following him before we blithely state our allegiance.

Last, Jesus talks about the very nature of his followers. He compares them to salt. He then makes an absurd statement, "If salt loses its saltiness..." How can salt become unsalty? I'm not going to delve into the whole sea salt having impurities thing. I'm looking at the very nature of salt as compared to Christians. If salt isn't salty, then is really isn't good to be used for salt anymore, so, it's just used for roads. Similarly, if a Christian isn't Christlike, then how is he any good to be used as a Christian? Of course, you can't have unsalty salt (chemically speaking), just like you can't have an un-Christlike Christian. Either you are a Christian and Christ is manifesting himself in you, or you aren't and you're only fooling yourself and those around you.

Application:

Yesterday, I talked about faith and its effects on the believer, changing his very nature and permeating him with Christ's nature and purpose. 

Today, we see the cost of following Christ and, honestly, it follows from yesterday. If we are permeated with Christ's nature and purpose, our connections and assets, our pride, our sins, none of that matters. If we are permeated with Christ's nature and purpose, we have security in our eternity and are invested in Christ's mission above all else -as Paul put it "To live is Christ and to die is gain." If we are permeated with Christ's nature and purpose, there is no room for any other connection, save as an outpouring of what God has given. Does this mean to actually deprive your spouse and children? No. What it means is that your family should know and clearly see that they play a very second fiddle to your devotion to God (and hopefully they too have such a relationship with God).

If we are permeated with Christ, then we cannot be anything other than salty. So, let's stop hiding our saltiness and impact the world around us - our workplaces, our classes, our churches, our streets.

22 January 2016

Scriptures:

• Psalm 21
• Genesis 21:1-21
• 1 Chronicles 25
• Luke 13:10-35

Observations:

In the first stanza of the psalm, we see David praising God for the blessings and aid he has given to him as king. In the second, David is praising God for the punishment of his (the Lord's) enemies.

In Genesis, we see the intended fruit of God's promise - Isaac is born. Following that, we see strife again between Sarah and Hagar to the point where Sarah is urging Abraham to cast Hagar and Ishmael out again. God speaks to Abraham, reassuring him that they would be okay and that, though Isaac is the intended child, he will make a great nation of Ishmael as well, because he is Abraham's son. In the wilderness, then, Hagar finds herself running out of water, lamenting the impending death of her son, when an angel from God reminds her of God's promise and shows her a well. Ishmael grew up to be a strong man, good with a bow we're told, and that he was married to an Egyptian woman. Lastly, we see Abraham's reputation and merciful dealing in his treaty with Abimelech regarding the well at Beersheba.

The 1 Chronicles passage continues the detailing of the Levites, specifically the musicians. We see the prescriptions of who is performing what roles as well as an annotation of lot-taking (thought I do not know what the lot-taking was for). Matthew Henry interprets the lot-taking as the organisation of shifts - who is on duty when.

In Luke, we see a handful of situations. First, Jesus heals a woman with a disfigurement or disability (it looks like some kind of anatomic dysfunction of the spine). The healing itself is rather commonplace for Christ, but it sparked an outrage from a number of the religious leaders, because it happened to be the Sabbath, an argument which Jesus met by showing the leaders their own hypocrisy. Second, Jesus makes two comparisons to the kingdom of heaven. First of the two, he compares it to a mustard seed, which, though small, grows into a large plant, big enough to serve as home for birds. In a similar way, the knowledge and faith in God is a small seed planted within us, but, when cared for and allowed to grow, it expands and branches out, impacting all areas of a person's life and extending shelter/affecting others. Second of the two, Jesus compares the kingdom of God to yeast - a small, single-celled organism whose presence changes the entire nature and flavour of dough and its resultant bread. Next, Jesus responds to a follower's question on the number of saved souls by comparing the kingdom of God to a narrow door - not all will manage to come in - and one that will be open only for a finite time, leaving all others removed from the presence of God, in punishment. This segment has imagery very similar to Matthew 25:31-46, except where the evidence of salvation in Matthew is having served God, the evidence in Luke is having entered through the narrow door, which many seek and few find. Fourth, we see Jesus speaking a lament for Jerusalem over the role it would play during his next and final visit and its lack of willingness to come to God, preferring to remain in its slavish obedience to the Law.

Application:

Do not underestimate faith.

For the first time, I have a better understanding of Jesus' two parables on the kingdom of God. 

I also understand the blindness of the world. The narrow door is not an indication of Christ's meanness, but of man's blindness.

Let Christ's seed, the kingdom of God grow in you, permeating throughout your being, that every thought, every action, every word, every aspect of your body, heart, mind, and soul is infiltrated and held captive by Christ, because we are to be Christ - Christian means little Christ and we are often described as the hands and feet of Christ. Our role is to guide others towards that narrow door, to bring light to their darkness and sight to their blindness.

That is why the church spread under persecution. That is why the pharisees did not understand. Christ demands a surrender of self and an urgency of purpose that defies all man-made stricture and human reason.

21 January 2016

Scriptures:

• Psalm 19
• Genesis 19
• 1 Chronicles 21:18-22:19
• Luke 12:13-48

Observations:

In the psalm, we have four stanzas, each with a different theme. The first is praise, showing how all of creation sings praise to God. The second is scripture, praising the word of the Lord in how they guide man in what is right and wise. The third is contrition, wherein David asks God to show him his faults and asks God to cleanse him. The last is commitment, as David, in my understanding, commits himself to the worship of God, entreating that his worship would always be pleasing to God.

Well, there is a whole lot going on in the Genesis passage: Lot's delivery from Sodom, Lot's wife turning to salt, and Lot's daughters taking advantage of him. What stood out to me is Lot's reticence to leave Sodom. I understand, that was his home, but it says something about the strength of his faith compared to Abraham's. We also see it in his sons-in-law's derision of Lot's warning to leave the city, his wife's turning back, and his daughters' incestuous actions. If he sought after God more and had a deeper relationship with God, would his sons-in-law have reacted differently (or even been different people)? Would his wife and daughters have acted differently? I would say so. His faith set the tone for the way he and his family settled and interacted in Sodom. The difference here, between Lot and Abraham, is that Lot put himself and his comfort first, then God. Abraham put God first (usually) and his comfort second. Now, I'm not saying be legalistic, doing thousands of good things for God, becoming an ascetic and selling all your possessions, etc. I'm saying seek God first, not ourselves.

Okay, so in 1 Chronicles, this is following God's punishment on Israel for David's sin of pride in taking a census. At the place where the angel stopped in Jerusalem, a threshing floor, David was commanded to build an altar. So, he bought, full price, the threshing floor and built an altar on it, sacrificing to God for forgiveness and peace. At that spot, David commissioned the temple to be built, though God had previously told him that it would be Solomon to do so, since David's hands were so stained with blood. So, David did all the leg work in acquiring the resources and workmen for Solomon to use.

So, in Luke, we have three passages that are often read separately, but, when read together, make for an amazing synergy. First, we have the parable of the rich fool, in which Jesus is admonishing us not to stockpile assets and riches on earth instead of investing in God, for we will all be called up and our earthy possessions will serve us no greater purpose. Second we have the encouragement to not be anxious, which is begun with a "therefore", indicating it flows from the first passage. Because we are to invest our efforts in God instead of earthly assets, we are encouraged to not be anxious about having enough to eat or be clothed, but to have faith that God, whom we are invested in, will care for our needs, closing with a reminder that where are treasures are is where our hearts are. Last, we have the call to readiness. If we are then invested in and committed to Christ, should we not also be preparing ourselves to move at his command? Should we not be busy doing his work so that when we are called up, we are not caught unawares, engaged in worldly vices, but prepared and engaging in the work we have been given.

Application:

The application I see is two-fold.

Part I

In what ways do I serve my own comfort?

Where do I reluctantly follow God's direction?

Part II

How am I investing in Earth instead of God?

What do I need to rid myself of so that I may lean upon God?

What is the work God has given me to do?

19 January 2016

Scriptures:

• Psalm 18
• Genesis 18:16-33
• 1 Chronicles 21:1-17
• Luke 11:37-12:12

Observations:

In the psalm, we see David giving praise to God for being his rock and shelter. We see David describing how the Lord goes out to war on his behalf, giving description of his earth-shattering power. David also makes note of why God would act on his behalf - David has sought to remain clean and pure, seeking after God. From God, then, David gains his strength, speaking of how the Lord has equipped him to face his enemies.

In the Genesis passage, I find Abraham's attitude very curious. We see God "debating" within himself over whether to let Abraham know what he was going to do next, to deal with Sodom. After telling Abraham, though, Abraham, knowing the city's reputation, begins to haggle for the city's survival, whittling God down to sparing the city if there are so much as 10 righteous people living there. Yes, we know that Abraham's nephew, Lot, lived in Sodom, but Abraham's humility and self-effacement in haggling with God is interesting. You can see Abraham's gratitude that the Lord would consider his offer. You can also see Abraham's not wanting to presume, recognising his existence in the face of God, but still wanting to press for further clemency on behalf of the city.

In 1 Chronicles, we see the beginnings of kingly pride infecting David, affecting his rule. David called for a census, desiring to know the size of his kingdom. Surprisingly, Joab, his general, who was not particularly known for his godliness, had reservations, pleading David not to tempt God's wrath. David continued and, sure enough, God delivered David a choice of punishments, ultimately delivering a pestilence across the nation, stopping partway through Jerusalem. 70 000 men had died because of David's folly (and that number doesn't include women or children). The Lord stopped the pestilence early because of David's sincere contrition.

In Luke, we first see Jesus dining with some pharisees and teachers of the Law. Not very long after being there, one of the pharisees questions Jesus about a traditional behaviour of cleanliness that Jesus didn't do. Jesus makes a point about this, leveling against the pharisees in general about how they pursue external cleanliness and recognition of man instead of working for the recognition of God, which leads to internal cleanliness. Similarly, at a protestation from a teacher of the Law, Jesus lays at their feet their guilt for the burdensome additional laws which have been made over the last few centuries to keep the everyday Jew from trespassing the ten commandments, but which served more to ensnare and enslave them.

From these statements, Jesus then turns to his followers, who had been gathering and admonishes them to hold on to a few thoughts:

• Do not pursue the influence of the pharisees
• That is, do not seek to emulate them in the hopes of gaining what they purport to possess.
• Do not fear your peers or authorities; instead, fear God.
• Seek first, then the ways in which God says to live, holding to that standard first.
• Do not compromise on your faith in Christ when pressured or questioned by your peers or authorities .

Application:

I think the Luke passage is the linchpin here. Let us start from the three points of Luke - not pursuing the influence and lifestyle of the world, not fearing the world's authorities, but God, and not compromising on our faith in any situation.

From there, we can see David's folly: he pursued the lifestyle and prestige of the world. Let us also see David's salvation: he feared God.

Also, we can see David's psalm. In his solid faith in God, he had no fear of other powers, because he knew what God could and would do.

Lastly, in Genesis, we can see the fruit of a life of growing closer to God, towards the no compromise threshold, in Abraham as he petitioned God on behalf of his nephew. 

18 January 2016

Scriptures:

• Psalm 17
• Genesis 18:1-15
• 1 Chronicles 18-20
• Luke 11:1-36

Observations:

In the psalm, we see David pleading with the Lord to shelter him and to fight on his behalf. We see him showing his heart and actions to God, as evidence that he is worthy of God's favour. We also see David's heart. He doesn't want God's protection for this particular instance. In verse 8, we see "Keep me as the apple of your eye." David is seeking intimacy with God and seeks to remain in intimacy with God.

In Genesis, we have the final promise to Abraham and Sarah that they will have a child, to which Sarah scoffs, because she is well past menopause. What's also interesting and very much worth noting is the urgency of Abraham's hospitality for the servants of the Lord, urging them into the shade, offering and making them food and drink. It brings to mind the passage in Matthew 25:35, "For I was hungry and you gave me food. I was thirsty and you gave me drink. I was a stranger and you welcomed me." We never know when we might be entertaining messengers of God, so let us always be available and graciously hospitable. That being said, we should be doing so anyways, because of the love of God that dwells within us.

In 1 Chronicles, we have an account of a number of military and political events occurring through David's reign. In ch 18, we see his war victories and spoils as well as his administration. In ch 19, we see a new Ammonite king, the son of one who had been kindly towards David in his youth, spit at David's offer of consolation and friendship, bringing the Syrians to war against Israel. Israel routed them both and Syria became a vassal state. In ch 20, we see the capture of Rabbah from the Ammonites as well as the deeds in single combat of some of David's men. Clearly this period of David's rule was one blessed by God, as evidenced by his successes.

In the first segment of the Luke passage, we see the people gathered asking Jesus how to pray. In reply, he gives them two pieces of instruction. First, he gives them a skeleton prayer. Second, he tells them to pray boldly, asking for whatever they seek, because God loves us like a perfect father and desires to bless us with what we need. In the second segment, Jesus deals with accusations that he is in league with the devil to be able to cast out demons, giving the crowd two if-then statements on if he worked by the power of Satan and if he worked by the power of God. Third, Jesus talks about an unclean spirit that has been cast out, returning to find its old home clean and well-kept, and inviting more to dwell with it. To me, I understand this as attempting to remove our sin on our own. We might hold out for a time and get ourselves straightened up, but that sin comes back and with a vengeance, bringing us to new lows. Unless, of course, there is a different spirit residing in its place - the spirit of God. Jesus then continues, closing out this particular collection of verses with a woe to the crowds, lamenting their lack of faith, wanting to see greater miracles before they believed, and with an illustration on faith-filled living.

Application:

Well, from Chronicles, we can definitely see the effect of God's hand in physical affairs. In the psalm, we see David's example in his desire to never be removed from God's favour. In Genesis, we see how God will answer his promises, albeit in unlikely ways sometimes, and how we should be ready to serve God and others, with our very best and consideration for their well-being. Lastly, in Luke, we see we are to be bold in prayer, recognising that Jesus' power is of God, meaning that the kingdom of God is truly near, recognising that it is only through him that we are cleansed from our sins, and that we are to be bold in our faith, reflecting Christ, shining his light like a lamp on a stand, being aware of ourselves, checking that the light we reflect is indeed of Christ and not self.

That's still very wordy.

God answers his promises and has clear power. Recognising that it is Jesus who cleanses us and allows us to come into the presence of God, let us cleave to God and desire never to leave, petitioning him boldly for his favour and blessing, and allowing him to change us from the inside, that we would reflect in growing faith the character of God.

So, cling to God faster than a man does his wife, for God is sufficient, able, and willing to meet every one of our needs.

16 January 2016

Scriptures:

• Psalm 15
• Genesis 16
• 1 Chronicles 16:4-43
• Luke 9:51-10:24

Observations:

In the psalm, David is laying out a list of characteristics of a godly man, of one who is able to dwell in the presence of God

• Someone blameless in righteousness
• Someone of integrity & truth
• Someone who neither slanders nor harms his neighbour
• Someone who respects and uplifts his peers instead of scorning them
• Someone who despises evil
• Someone who supports others who follow God
• Someone who speaks the truth of matters and does not vacillate to suit his wants
• Someone who gives freely, not for personal gain
• Someone who will not be swayed by gain in favour of the guilty

David then wraps up his psalm, saying that he who does these things will never be moved.

Looking at that list, the only thing I can say is that I definitely do not deserve to be in the presence of God and yet, in his love and mercy, knowing we could not come to him, he came to us with an offer of absolution so that we could dwell in his presence, should we accept.

In Genesis, we see Abram and Sarai taking God's promise of a child into their own hands, stepping outside of God's will. What is interesting to me is that, although Sarai was the one to suggest it, when Hagar had conceived and begun acting contemptuously towards Sarai, she laid the burden of the consequences at Abram's feet. Another thing that's interesting, though, is God's faithfulness. You see, God promised that Abram's descendants would be numerous and, while the child in Hagar's womb was not the descendant line that god was intending, Ishmael was still of Abram's seed. So, we see God showing mercy to Hagar while she is in the wilderness, promising that the descendants of her child would be numerous and great (and the Ishmaelites have indeed been numerous and great, even up to this modern age. They were a nomadic peoples, divided also into 12 tribes, spreading from northern Sinai to the western borders of Babylon, north into the border between modern-day Saudi Arabia and Jordan, many of them referenced by Greek and Assyrian historians. There is some indication that they may have been traders as well and also some indication that certain Ishmaelite tribes may have been the forefathers of modern Arabs).

In 1 Chronicles, we see the celebration following the Ark of the Covenant being brought into Jerusalem. Most notably, we see David's psalm of praise to God, exhorting the people to seek after God, recalling his covenants, remembering his protections, declaring his greatness and the false nature of idols, encouraging the people to follow the example of nature in praising God, and lastly encouraging the people to turn to God for their salvation.

In Luke, we have a number of incidents along the way to Jerusalem, as Jesus is making his way there for the last time. The first is the refusal of a Samaritan city to host him and his followers, because he was headed towards Jerusalem. What is interesting is that a couple of the disciples, understanding the power of God, but not his purpose, asked if they should call down fire on the town to which Jesus rebuked them. The second is Jesus outlining the cost of following him, sounding almost like he is trying to dissuade people from following him, which is understandable, since many would seek to follow him for the prestige of following a rabbi, not understanding that what Jesus taught often ran counter to conventional wisdom. The third is the sending and return of seventy-two of Jesus' followers. We see his emphasis on taking nothing with them and living at the mercy of whomever they come across. When they return, we see his exhortation to not rejoice in the power given to them over evil, but that their names are written down in heaven. The fourth is Jesus' woe towards the unrepentant Jewish cities, because they have received prior knowledge of God and still do not acknowledge Christ. The fifth and last is Jesus' rejoicing in the Father's will for how God has revealed himself.

Application:

Okay, so these are scattered passages with different foci. In the psalm, we see God's perfect standard. In Genesis, we see God's faithfulness and holding to his word. In 1 Chronicles, we see an exhortation to praise God. In Luke, we see Jesus trying to teach his followers the whole point of his ministry and purpose.

I myself, I see encouragement to praise God for how he has come to me, giving me the opportunity to dwell in his presence, though the sending and sacrifice of Jesus. I see encouragement to praise God for his faithfulness, to trust in him because of the accounts of his past faithfulness. Lastly, I see that there are still many things about God and his purpose that I still do not understand and need to grow in wisdom and understanding of.

14 January 2016

Scriptures:

• Psalm 13
• Genesis 14
• 1 Chronicles 14
• Luke 8:22-56

Observations:

In the psalm, David is bringing a request to God. He wishes to know when God will hear him again, when he will have joy again, and when he will no longer be oppressed. He tempers his plea, asking that the Lord would give him life and keep him alive so that his foes may not rejoice over his fall. In the first two stanzas, David is bringing these mournful requests, but in the last stanza, we see his tone change. He instead turns and says that he has trusted in God's love and that the Lord has dealt bountifully with him.

In the light of such trustworthy benevolence, David is able to say that his struggles and fears pale in comparison, knowing that God will hear him and come to his aid because God has been faithful in such action in the past.

In Genesis, the first thing we see is Lot's capture during a war between many Mesopotamian city-states as well as Abram's covert ops rescue of him and his possessions, while routing the invading forces. The second thing is the blessing of Melchizedek, king of Salem upon Abram. Lastly, we see Abram refusing the king of Sodom's offer of reward, mentioning a covenant he had made with God to not take any spoil from his efforts.

In 1 Chronicles, we see two distinct things. First, we see David's accumulation of power and recognition through marriage treaties. Second, we see the present state of David's relationship with God. In two different instances, David sought the Lord's direction in dealing with invading Philistines, was given an answer, and followed the directions explicitly. In this passage, we have an indication of the spiritual health of David. At this time, he still had a strong relationship with God and was seeking him humbly, though it is clear he had also begun enjoying the privileges of power, dipping his toes into what would eventually contribute to future strife.

In Luke, we see a number of encounters displaying his power. First, in calming the storm on the Sea of Galilee, he demonstrates his control over creation. Second, in casting the demons known as Legion out of the man in the graveyard, we see his power over demons. Third, in the healing of the woman with the bleeding affliction, we see his power over illness. We also see that his power is inherent, exuding from him such that someone who acted out of faith, in desperation, received healing. Fourth, in the healing of Jairus' daughter, we see his power over death.

Application:

God is powerful. God is faithful. 

He is able to deal with our sins and fears, our worries and consolation. He is trustworthy and reliable, able to be counted upon in times of need.

In many ways, I see myself like David in 1 Corinthians. God has put me in a better place and I am seeking him out, but I can also see myself becoming careless, cozying up in the way things are, not holding myself to a higher standard. 

So, what do I need to do? I will bolster myself in God, barricading myself in his word, seeking him and his will completely, allowing him to transform me further, that I would interact with others as he would, showing his love and allowing myself to understand by his wisdom.

Frankly, I need God, in part for the same reasons as before, but in part for new reasons as well.

23 November 2015

Scriptures:

• John 15:1-17
• Isaiah 13-14
• 2 Kings 22
• Psalm 114

Observations:

So, in the John passage, we have a few connected ideas. First, we have the idea that Christ is like a vine and we, the believers, are like branches, which God, as the gardener, trims, pruning the branches bearing fruit and removing those branches failing to do so, the fruit coming necessarily from that connection with Christ, abiding in his love, as is alluded to further on in the passage, keeping the commandments given to us by Christ to love one another as Christ loved us, going so far, as Christ did, to lay down our lives for our brothers, that our joy may be full, for we were chosen by Christ to bear fruit and, in so doing, give glory to God. Second, we have the assurance that we are indeed in the vine, found in verse 3, meaning that we need only to seek after God and follow Christ in his path and instruction to the best of our ability, relying on Christ to carry us beyond where we can in ourselves go.

In Isaiah, we see a very long prophecy against Babylon. In essence, Babylon will not only be destroyed, but laid bare, fallen in disgrace. Whether this is an already-fulfilled prophecy (Which I think is so, because of reference to the Medes) or a prophecy about end times events, I cannot say for certainty. Additionally, We see a small prophecy against the Philistines.

In 2 Kings, we see Josiah commanding repairs of the temple and, in the process, one of his secretaries comes across the book of the law and brings it to Josiah, who, in grief at the sin of Jerusalem and Judah tears his clothes in grief and seeks the Lord in regards to his wrath, the answer from the prophetess being that Judah would indeed face God's wrath, but because of Josiah's contrition, it would not be during his lifetime.

The psalm is praising God for his greatness such that, when Israel was emerging from Egypt into the promised land, the mountains and hills fled in the face of the Lord.

Application:

The John passage is very encouraging to me in this current phase, because, as I first read verse 2, I lump myself in the former category, but in verses 3 and 4, I see that I, as a follower of Christ, am counted in the latter category and am encouraged, instead to abide in Christ, being reminded that this is nothing that I can do of my own power, but, in reliance upon Christ, I am made able to bear fruit.

Today is a good bit of encouragement to continue waging war on my sin, to overcome and work towards reconciliation, honouring both God and my wife.

22 November 2015

Scriptures:

• John 14
• Isaiah 11-12
• 2 Kings 21
• Psalm 113

Observations:

In the John passage, Jesus is talking with his disciples after washing their feet about the Kingdom of God and how he will be going ahead to prepare a place for them. He also expounds upon how we can know God, the Father, by knowing God, the Son, and showing the disciples that anyone who claims to love him will follow in obedience. He also promises a helper to come to them after he leaves.

Application:

Firstly, we can see that to love God is to obey. We know that Jesus is the only way to heaven, that he is preparing a place for us and has given us the Holy Spirit as a counselor and empowerment, but the idea that any who love him will act in obedience to him is important.

21 November 2015

Scriptures:

• John 13
• Isaiah 9:8-10:34
• 2 Kings 20
• Psalm 112

Observations:

In the John passage, we see Jesus and his disciples at the last supper, Jesus washing the disciples' feet, Jesus telling of his betrayal and death, and Jesus giving a final command to love one another.

In Isaiah, we see the fall of Israel at the hand of the Assyrians predicted and we also see the Lord promising to destroy Assyria as Sennacherib turns his eye from Israel to Jerusalem. What's interesting is it correlates with the past few days' passages in 2 Kings.

In 2 Kings, we see Hezekiah, on his deathbed, praying to God and God granting him another fifteen years, confirming it by making the shadows move backwards on the steps of Ahaz. We also see Hezekiah receiving envoys from Babylon, sent in good faith by the king's son who'd heard he was ill. Hezekiah sowed them around, including all the riches that had been stocked up over the generations, about which  Isaiah then prophesied would be taken by Babylon in the near future.

The psalm today is praising God for how he is faithful to those who are faithful to him. 

Application:

In the John passage, what really stands out to me is the lesson given by Jesus in washing the disciples' feet. 

"You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet. For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you."
- John 13:13-15

In my own life right now, I am facing certain difficulties in my marriage and one of the reasons is, somewhere back when my wife and I were dating, I stopped doing this in my heart and kept doing it because that's just what one does. I then carried that mindset into my marriage and created a weak foundation of Love and Service, which spiralled and escalated into the problem I am now working to overcome. 

This passage, then, is of high importance to apply. Genuine service and humility based in love is easy to copy, but hard to do, the humility and love being the two most difficult aspects. To grow in those two areas is to invest myself in God and invest myself again in my wife - to treat her as I did when we were first dating.

Looking also at the psalm, it's almost like a promise of God's faithfulness for my wife and I as we endure. We have a long road ahead, but God has us where we are and he has plans for where we'll be. We only need to trust him.

Prayer:

(In private)

20 November 2015

Scriptures:

• John 12:20-50
• Isaiah 9:1-7
• 2 Kings 19
• Psalm 111

Observations:

In John, we have Jesus teaching in Jerusalem on Passover week, leading up to his death. We see him talking about some of the paradoxes of the Kingdom of God and about the cost of discipleship. He speaks about his purpose, praising God and God speaks down in response. As the people mutter among themselves, some doubting, some believing, but afraid of the Pharisees, Jesus continues to speak, encouraging them to cherish his presence while he is there, before continuing on to the nature of judgment.

In Isaiah, we have a very triumphant prophecy - the coming of the Messiah. This whole passage just build with energy as it climaxes at the announcement of the Messiah as the great culmination.

In 2 Kings, we see the passage I was alluding to yesterday. Hezekiah goes straight to God with the demands and mockeries given by Sennacherib. There, he resents the kings words and asks God what his action will be, to which God sends Isaiah to prophesy Sennacherib's downfall and God himself lays waste to 185 000 of the Assyrian forces.

The psalm is one of praise to God for his works, his righteousness, and faithfulness. He is praising God for his redemption and reign and is encouraging Israel to seek the Lord, to fear him, as the beginning of wisdom.

Application:

As I read the prophecy in Isaiah, I get chills down my spine. The imagery contained therein is beautiful. The light coming into the darkness? The joy of the harvest? The breaking of yokes of burden, of oppression and slavery? The end of war? 

"Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end, on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time forth and forevermore." Isaiah 9:7a

I'm in a spot right now where I need a light into darkness and a breaking of slavery. This is why Jesus came, though, to free us from our slavery to sin and to lead us into the light, that is God.

19 November 2015

Scriptures:

• John 11:55-12:19
• Isaiah 7-8
• 2 Kings 18
• Psalm 110

Observations:

In the John passage, we see that the Pharisees have sent notice asking for for anyone with Jesus' whereabouts so they could arrest him. We also see Jesus preparing to return to Jerusalem over Passover, stopping first at Lazarus' house, where Mary anoints Jesus' feet with expensive perfume (worth ~ 1 year's wages) and Jesus rebukes Judas who'd balked at the waste of such expense.

After this, we see the triumphal entrance, as Jesus rides into Jerusalem on a donkey.

In the Isaiah passage, we see God, in a very dramatic way, prophesying the downfall of Israel and Syria to the Assyrians and the provision of a miracle as evidence of the prophecy: that a virgin would conceive and bear a son. This is a dual-prophecy. We see an apparent, immediate fulfillment with the birth of Maher-shalal-hash-baz and a later, proper fulfillment with the birth of Christ.

In 2 Kings, we see Hezekiah, considered a godly king, being faced with invasion by Assyria immediately after they'd just overrun Israel (see the above prophecy). We see the Assyrians taunting Hezekiah and God, attempting to demoralise the Jews. In chapter 19, we will see Isaiah prophesying the downfall of Sennacherib by his own family because of his offense to God.

In the psalm, we see God as the final arbiter. We see him making an end to sin and the wicked.

Application:

 From the two middle passages, we can see aspects of internal consistency, seeing a prophecy given by Isaiah about Israel and Assyria's downfall to Ahaz and fulfilled during his son's reign. Also, in looking up "Nehushtan" I found out that a couple otherwise reputable historians made reference to flying serpents in the Arabian peninsula. That kinda makes me wonder about exactly when dinosaurs were around, especially the smaller ones whose fossils continue after the K/T (see, the flood?) extinction, as this would really lend huge credence to the young earth theory and force geologists ad evolutionists to revise their theorems. But, only time will tell on that count.