2007
JANUARY ARCHIVES
January 1st
WHO? Who came up with the idea of
Marriage?
GETTING PEOPLE INTO THE WORD OF GOD:
Genesis 2:21-22 & 24 And the LORD God caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam, and he slept: and he took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh instead thereof; And the rib, which the LORD God had taken from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man…. Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.
GETTING THE WORD OF GOD INTO PEOPLE:
I guess the most basic question that would come up concerning relationships is who came up with the idea of marriage anyway? Where did the idea of husband and wife come from? If there is to be anyone that would be able to help us understand our relationship to one another it would have to be the one that first originated the concept of this relationship. So where did it start? Well it began in the passage of scripture above. It began with God creating within Adam a desire for someone just like him. As God passed all the animals before Adam, he realized they all had a mate except him. It began with God creating and bringing a woman to Adam. Adam did not choose a mate for himself, God did. Adam did not think of intimacy with another person first, God did. And Adam had no idea where to find this perfect match for himself, only God did. God could have very easily created another man to help Adam with his tasks around the garden. But in His infinite wisdom God knew that would never work. God created a woman so man could understand a little more about love. He brought to Adam the perfect match for him. And God performed the first wedding in verse 24 when he said to them “Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife” What was it that the omniscient all knowing God called her when she was joined with man? WIFE! Marriage began with God’s idea and He is the proprietor of it.
LETTING THE WORD AFFECT OUR LIVES:
Understanding who designed marriage helps us understand why our marriage should be treated with reverence. It truly is not our marriage, its God’s marriage of two people. And what belongs to God should be treated with respect. If you’re married, thank God for allowing you to be one part of His glorious design. If you’re not married, seek God for the right person knowing its God design we must desire.
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January 2nd
WHAT? What is the purpose of marriage?
GETTING PEOPLE INTO THE WORD OF GOD:
Genesis 6:18-19 & 8:16-17 But with thee will I establish my covenant; and thou shalt come into the ark, thou, and thy sons, and thy wife, and thy sons’ wives with thee. And of every living thing of all flesh, two of every sort shalt thou bring into the ark, to keep them alive with thee; they shall be male and female. …… Go forth of the ark, thou, and thy wife, and thy sons, and thy sons’ wives with thee. Bring forth with thee every living thing that is with thee, of all flesh, both of fowl, and of cattle, and of every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth; that they may breed abundantly in the earth, and be fruitful, and multiply upon the earth.
GETTING THE WORD OF GOD INTO PEOPLE:
As we saw yesterday, God designed marriage and God also preserved it. In today’s verses we see God telling Noah He would sustain Noah and his wife, and his sons and their wives. Also a male and Female of every creature. Why didn’t God instruct him to just bring two male donkeys or two female Rabbits? Because they could not reproduce another just like them. The same is true of mankind. God’s design for man and woman was marriage. His desire is to produce others just like Himself. There are lots of Biblical reasons and rewards in marriage. Through this year we’ll examine several. But I believe God’s real desire for marriage holds to three basic principles. One, we’re to become one flesh. So intimately close to just one other person we almost know their thoughts and emotions. Completing one another in all we do. Secondly, to enjoy our relationship with that person in such a way that it would remain permanent and exclusive. And is so doing helping us to understand real love. And finally to bring into this world wonderful creations of God’s handy work and raise them up to honor, worship and adore Him. These three things also should mirror closely our relationship with God. First the bible says we should have the mind of Christ in us (Phil 2:5). Desiring to know God intimately as He does us. Secondly, God has instructed us to have no other gods (Exodus 20:3). And then also we are told we are made in the image and likeness of our creator God (Genesis 1:27). Marriage reminds us of God.
LETTING THE WORD AFFECT OUR LIVES:
Many say today that we have outlived the usefulness of marriage. But God found marriage to be a glorious reflection of His relationship to us, and a reminder to us of His love for us. Let your relationships reflect the image of God.
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January 3rd
WHERE? Where should a marriage take place?
GETTING PEOPLE INTO THE WORD OF GOD:
Genesis 9:1 & 7-9 And God blessed Noah and his sons, and said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth….. And you, be ye fruitful, and multiply; bring forth abundantly in the earth, and multiply therein. And God spake unto Noah, and to his sons with him, saying, And I, behold, I establish my covenant with you, and with your seed after you;
GETTING THE WORD OF GOD INTO PEOPLE:
Where should a marriage take place? Most of you are probably thinking I will say in a church. And that is a wonderful place to have a wedding. It is the house of God and what better place for a couple to meet with family and friends to unite in Holy Matrimony. But that is not where a marriage takes place. You might think I would say at someone’s home. And I have been part of some very lovely home weddings. Walking through a garden or under a gazebo. How beautiful and romantic it is to be wed at home. But that is not where a marriage takes place. So where then? Justice of the Peace? Ships Captain? Wedding Chapel in Vegas? Although a wedding can take place anywhere, the marriage takes place in heaven. Marriage is a covenant relationship. A binding forever contract between two parties. If we simply have a contract with each other, it may not last. As much as we want to be committed, our commitments are conditional. Conditional by health, finances, people, and life itself. But God’s commitments or covenants are eternal. God can not lie. (Titus 1:2) God made a covenant with Noah and all his seed after him. And that covenant still holds true today. Ever see a rainbow? It reminds us and God of that covenant. It’s also God that joins people together in heaven. Mark 10:6-9 says “But from the beginning of the creation God made them male and female. For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and cleave to his wife; And they twain shall be one flesh: so then they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.” Where did God join them together? Well answer this question and you will answer that one. Where is the throne of God? In Heaven. So marriage takes place in heaven
LETTING THE WORD AFFECT OUR LIVES:
Your commitment with our partner for life was or will be a three was covenant. You committing to each other and God’s covenant to you both. So next time someone asks you where did you get married? You can say in Heaven.
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January 4th
WHEN? When does marriage become really real?
GETTING PEOPLE INTO THE WORD OF GOD:
Genesis 12:10-13 And there was a famine in the land: and Abram went down into Egypt to sojourn there; for the famine was grievous in the land. And it came to pass, when he was come near to enter into Egypt, that he said unto Sarai his wife, Behold now, I know that thou art a fair woman to look upon: Therefore it shall come to pass, when the Egyptians shall see thee, that they shall say, This is his wife: and they will kill me, but they will save thee alive. Say, I pray thee, thou art my sister: that it may be well with me for thy sake; and my soul shall live because of thee.
GETTING THE WORD OF GOD INTO PEOPLE:
When does marriage become real? Right after the wedding? In a sense yes. You are truly married legally and spiritually. But when does a marriage become really real? It’s like asking when does an insurance policy really become valuable? It becomes valuable when the time of trouble you have insured happens. Flood insurance for example is valuable after a flood. A marriage really becomes evident and real when trouble arises. How do you handle problems together? How do you treat each other during life’s trials? What will you do for your spouse in that prickly time of trouble? In our verses today we see a couple of things. Abram and Sarai were getting ready to make several mistakes. They were going to the world for help instead of God for one. They plan to lie and deceive these people for food for another. But we can also see this. Abram was going to do whatever it took to take care of his wife and family. Even so much as to go to his enemy to survive. Something he really did not want tot do. Sarai was willing to do anything to save her husband. It seemed to be life or death for them at the time and she was willing to do whatever it took to be sure her husband would stay alive. These people were in the midst of a real marriage. Although they did not seek God as they should have, we can learn from this as well. Sometimes we have to take jobs or do things we don’t really want to in order provide for our families. And no matter what we should be willing to risk it all for our mate in life. Now that is when marriage is real.
LETTING THE WORD AFFECT OUR LIVES:
Have you been through a trial in life? I’m sure you have. Did someone help you during that time? Another benefit of a good Christian marriage is that no matter the struggle there are always two people standing with you. Your spouse and God.
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January 5th
HOW? How do we know when its right to make a
life changing decision ?
GETTING PEOPLE INTO THE WORD OF GOD:
Genesis 18:14 Is any thing too hard for the LORD? At the time appointed I will return unto thee, according to the time of life, and Sarah shall have a son.
GETTING THE WORD OF GOD INTO PEOPLE:
How can a person know if they are ready to get married or not? That question has filled the pages of a number of books over the years. Some people are apposed to dating and say that courtship is the only way. Others give strict outlines on the dating process. But either of those two processes will bring you to asking yourself if this is the right person for me to spend the rest of my life with. If you are lost and do not have a relationship with Christ it is like rolling dice. There is no help other than your best judgment. And we all know we have made some bad choices in the past. Why would we trust only our judgment in this all important decision? Or any of life’s decisions for that matter. Trusting our own judgment is part of the reason for so many divorces today in both the Christian and non-Christian society. Christians have another avenue that is safer and surer if they will only follow it. Ask yourself; is anything to hard for God? The answer is NO, but we must hear from Him first. How do we do that? The Bible says His word is a lamp to our feet in Ps. 119:105. Read your Bible. In James 1:5 it says if we need wisdom to ask of God. That would be prayer. In Proverbs 19:20 it says to accept Godly counsel. This would mean listening to advice from Pastors, and Christian friends that are close to God. Next is how do you really feel. This can be clouded by worldly things, but deep down how do really believe God is leading you. In Phil. 2:13 it says God will work in you to do His good pleasure. How is God working in you? And lastly how is the Holy Spirit leading? Have you allowed the Holy Spirit to make an honest evaluation of this relationship? I know some of you are saying that is a lot of work just to answer one question. And that’s true. But if it is life commitment you are looking for, isn’t it worth it? Ask yourself is anything to hard for God?
LETTING THE WORD AFFECT OUR LIVES:
So how can you know? Jesus must be central to your life. You must be growing spiritually by reading the Bible and prayer. You need to allow godly people to scrutinize your relationship. And you need to allow the Holy Spirit to lead you in evaluating the relationship. Then be willing to obey what God says and rejoice.
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January 6th
WHY? Why should we get married?
GETTING PEOPLE INTO THE WORD OF GOD:
Genesis 18:14 Is any thing too hard for the LORD? At the time appointed I will return unto thee, according to the time of life, and Sarah shall have a son.
GETTING THE WORD OF GOD INTO PEOPLE:
In today’s Bible reading we read of Sarah and Abraham once again committing the same shameful act of deceit they had once before. Although it seems that this time they learn their lesson. We never hear of Abraham ever doubting God again. Never! Part of that could be because of what Abimelech said in verse 16. He said I have paid a price for any part of my shame in this to your brother. And then he makes an interesting comment. He says “he is to thee a covering of the eyes.” Different theologians have come up with a variety of explanations as to the meaning of this phrase but one thing they all agree on is that at the end of the verse Sarah was convicted of her wrong doings. So what could his comment mean? It could mean, I have paid a price and let that price be evidence to all around that I am innocent and Abraham is you husband. Let this price be sufficient to all who witnessed this that they do not look at me as if I did wrong. That they will close their eyes to the matter. I believe it’s also a statement of the position of Abraham in her life. Women often wore veils to cover their beauty so no other man could see them except their husband. Abimelech, by saying he is to thee a covering of the eyes to all with thee and all others, is telling Sarah that it was very evident by just looking at them that Abraham loved her and was her husband. They don’t need to play these games anymore because people can see God had put them together and her husband was the veil that protected her beauty. They completed one another. Why should they have been together? God put them together for a reason. To fulfill a purpose in His plan. Why should we get married today? The very same reason. God has a plan for you. Of all the reasons for marriage in the Bible one overshadows them all. God’s will for your marriage.
LETTING THE WORD AFFECT OUR LIVES:
In Genesis God says it is not good for man to be alone. That is men and women. But why settle for second best when God has a first rate plan for your life?
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January 7th
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January 8th
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January 9th
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January 10th
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January 11th
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January 12th
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January 13th
R – Relationships and Romance
GETTING PEOPLE INTO THE WORD OF GOD:
Genesis 39:19 And it came to pass, when his master heard the words of his wife, which she spake unto him, saying, After this manner did thy servant to me; that his wrath was kindled.
GETTING THE WORD OF GOD INTO PEOPLE:
What would you give up for your spouse or intended mate? Relationships and romance is not always about what you will give, but also about what you will give up. In the passage in Genesis 39 we know that Potiphars wife was an evil and sinful woman. Potiphar also was not a man of God as far as we know. But it did seem that he truly loved his wife and would give a lot for her affection. In the beginning of the chapter we see that Potiphar bought Joseph. He paid good money for this little Hebrew boy. In the next few verses we are told that the Lord prospered Potiphar because of Joseph. So not only did this young man cost him money but he also made him money. So much so that Potiphar entrusted everything he had to Joseph. And that meant literally everything, including his wife. Now don’t misunderstand, he had not give her to Joseph, but he had no apparent concerns about him being alone at home with his wife while he was away. He could see that Joseph was a man of God and that God was blessing him because of Joseph. So to recap, He paid good money for him, He liked him, he trusted him, he was very valuable to him and he was making God to shine down upon him. And yet, at the word of his wife alone, Potiphar was willing to get rid of all that was going so good to keep the affection of his wife. No matter what the cost to him or to his household, she came first. And even though she was lying, he had faith in what she said. Now you and I know that she was up to no good. But Potiphar did not. He apparently loved his wife and was willing to give up a great deal for her.
LETTING THE WORD AFFECT OUR LIVES:
Other than God, your spouse or intended mate should
be the most important person in your life. I imagine many of you have bought
elaborate gifts for one another in the past to show your affection. But just for
today ask yourself, what would you give up for them? Your favorite sport? Your
best friends? Your job or career? God gave up His all to show His love to you.
What would you give up?
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January 14th
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January 15th
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January 16th
R – Roles and Responsibilities
GETTING PEOPLE INTO THE WORD OF GOD:
Genesis 45:19 Now thou art commanded, this do ye; take you wagons out of the land of Egypt for your little ones, and for your wives, and bring your father, and come.
GETTING THE WORD OF GOD INTO PEOPLE:
Except for God himself, who else is to care for family? It is the family that should care for one another. God set up groups on this earth to care for one another. Governments He set up to take care of the legal matters in our societies. They were to record and then enforce the commandments of God. Somehow we have gotten off in that area and feel that they are to enforce the commandments of men instead of those of God. God later set up the church to help to care for the spiritual needs and development of the family. But today again it seems that church all too often has forgotten their real roles in society and provide all types of programs that have little or nothing to do with a person’s spiritual well being. But the family was always designed with the idea of caring for and protecting one another. Yes the government is used by God to help the family on occasion. We saw that here when God impressed upon Pharaoh because of Joseph, to help Joseph provide for his family. But it was never the government’s responsibility to care for the family. And yes the church is used by God to help the family also. To provide financial and other assistance when needed. But it is to aid the family in becoming self sustaining again by directing them to the true source of supply, God. The only ones that the bible ever says the church should completely care for are the fatherless and the widows. Any and all other help should be pointing people back to God as their provider and back to family for continued support. Even in this passage Joseph said in verse 7 “And God sent me before you to preserve you a posterity in the earth, and to save your lives by a great deliverance.” It has always been God’s design and desire that we should care for one another. But also to realize that in every situation He is still in control. God truly is our provider in life. We are simply stewards of His abundant mercy and grace.
LETTING THE WORD AFFECT OUR LIVES:
Being a steward of what God has supplied for you
and your family is an awesome responsibility. What are you doing today with what
God has entrusted you with? Are you wasting your time, talents and treasures on
unimportant and wasteful things? Or are you using what God has provided wisely?
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January 17th
E – Each Other
GETTING PEOPLE INTO THE WORD OF GOD:
Genesis 48:7 And as for me, when I came from Padan, Rachel died by me in the land of Canaan in the way, when yet there was but a little way to come unto Ephrath: and I buried her there in the way of Ephrath; the same is Bethlehem.
GETTING THE WORD OF GOD INTO PEOPLE:
Have you ever been with a person that has come to the end of their life? Ever set and listened to them as they share, in the last months of their life, their fondest thoughts and memories? Being a pastor I have had that privilege on a number of occasions. None of theses phrases of final revelation are so implanted in my heart as those of my own father. I had the joy of driving from Kentucky to Michigan with him just a couple of months before his passing. My mother had broken her hip and was hospitalized for months in Kentucky. My dad, in the final stages of cancer, was not able to drive her home that far home on his own anymore. So my sister and I went to Kentucky and she drove their car back with my mother in it and I drove my car back and my dad rode with me. It seemed that every few miles he would look back to the car my mom was in and would say “I hope she (meaning my sister) is careful, she has no idea how precious the cargo is that she is carrying.” In all my years of growing up with this man I had never heard him speak openly of loving her nor seen him show much public affection. But as he realized his life was coming to an end, the one that he loved most was constantly on his mind. In our verse today we see Israel also remembering the love of his life. How she walked with him so far but never got to see the elevation of her children to any stature. He missed sharing this moment her. When life comes toward those final hours, and if God allows you the presence of mind, what really matters most will not be your job, cars, home or wealth. What really comes shining through is real love, and those that you shared it with. God gave us many gifts in this life, but the greatest gift of all is the ability to express and receive love.
LETTING THE WORD AFFECT OUR LIVES:
Why do we wait? Why wait until the days of our life
have fled and we have little or no strength to share how we really feel. Take
some time today and tell those that have loved you and those that you love
thanks for being in my life today. Some of you can say it with words, others may
need to purchase a card and yet others could completely surprise people by just
saying “I love you.” However you need to do it, do it. And don’t forget to tell
God, thanks for the gift of love, and share your love with Him too.
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January 18th
V – Vision
GETTING PEOPLE INTO THE WORD OF GOD:
Genesis 49:29 & 31 And he charged them, and said unto them, I am to be gathered unto my people: bury me with my fathers in the cave that is in the field of Ephron the Hittite, …… There they buried Abraham and Sarah his wife; there they buried Isaac and Rebekah his wife; and there I buried Leah.
GETTING THE WORD OF GOD INTO PEOPLE:
Oh; to know the beginning and the end of something. It is often said that if I knew how something would turn out it would be easier for me to make decisions about today. If only I knew what my children were going to become in life, it would be easier to direct them in certain areas growing up to help them. If only I knew how long I was going to live I could plan better on how to spend my days. Some things we do not know and it is very hard to envision them with any definition. But other things we do know for certain. We know we need to live somewhere; we should do our best to prepare to provide that dwelling. We know that our children will need to go to school or be home schooled. We should make plans for where they will attend and how we will be a part of that. We know that we will have to retire some day if we live long enough and we should do what is necessary today to make those days of our life easier. And we all know the bible says in Hebrews 9:27 “It is appointed unto man once to die.” Yup, unless God sends Christ first, we will all face the hour of death. In our verses today we see that Jacob had made definite plans as to where his physical remains would be placed after his death. One of the kindest things my parents did for me and my siblings was to make all their funeral arrangements in advance. In the hour when I was mourning the loss of my parents, I did not have to try and decide what they would like for a funeral. It was all done for me by them in advance. And better yet, they had prepared in advance for their eternal destination. Both my parents are safe and waiting for me in a place called heaven. Some things we can not plan for in life. But as for the things that are definite, we should be a people of vision and planning.
LETTING THE WORD AFFECT OUR LIVES:
Today is a good day to plan for the rest of your
life. No, you do not have to do everything today, but this is a great day to get
started. Take account of those things that are definite and write them down.
Then make a list of things to be done and plan to do them. But the one thing you
need to do today is be certain of your eternal destination. Be sure Jesus as
Lord of your life and secure your place in heaven today.
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January 19th
E – Economics
GETTING PEOPLE INTO THE WORD OF GOD:
Exodus 3:21 And I will give this people favour in the sight of the Egyptians: and it shall come to pass, that, when ye go, ye shall not go empty:
GETTING THE WORD OF GOD INTO PEOPLE:
The Children of Israel had nothing at this point. In fact they had less than nothing. They were in slavery. And Slaves in those days were considered the property of their master. And anything they were allowed to have in their possession also belonged to the master. So all of Egypt and all of the children of Israel realized that all they possessed apparently belonged to the leader of Egypt. Their ruler and master at the time. And yet God says to them I will give you favor and you will not go away from Egypt empty handed. And in just a few more chapters we will find that is exactly what God does. When they leave Egypt they are loaded down with the treasures of the Egyptian people. Which makes us have to ask the question, who really was in control of all the so called Egyptian belongings all along? Although Egypt seemed to be in control of the silver and gold and properties, who really owned it? It was then, is now and always will be God. Even though today we want to believe that we have earned or control our own destiny and wealth, the truth is our economic well being has always been in the hand of God. Oh sure we are responsible to be good stewards of what God entrusts us with, but it still belongs to Him. Actually things have not changed for believers since the days of the Hebrew Children here in the book of Exodus. All we have been given to care for still belongs to our Master. The difference is we now know who the real master is and we serve Him willingly. The real key to understanding God’s economics is in understanding that everything is within His control. Not just the items that the believers have, but everything. We simply need to be obedient to God in how we use His resources and trust He will take care of the rest.
LETTING THE WORD AFFECT OUR LIVES:
Has it
ever seemed in the past that God did not care about your economic condition?
That is not true. God cares completely about every aspect of your life. But He
also desires you to understand that things were created by Him and for Him.
Take time and thank God today for the wealth you do have. However small or
great that is, God has entrusted it into your care. Be a good steward of your
Masters provisions and who knows, He might trust you with a bit more.
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January 20th
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January 21st
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January 22nd
O - Openness
GETTING PEOPLE INTO THE WORD OF GOD:
Exodus 12:24 And ye shall observe this thing for an ordinance to thee and to thy sons for ever.
GETTING THE WORD OF GOD INTO PEOPLE:
Remember playing that little game where someone begins a short statement and whispers it into the ear of the person next to them. The rule being you can only say it once and then they have to repeat it to the next person. And so it goes around the room and the last person says out loud what they have heard. Usually you’ll laugh as the last statement will be so far off from the original. This game illustrates how well we communicate. Both speaking and listening. If you repeat this game with the same group using a different story, they begin to get good at saying the statements clearly and slowly. The person listening listens to every word closely. And the end result is almost word for word how it began. So what changed? The difference is the first time they all thought they could do it with little effort so they halfheartedly listened and spoke. During the first time around you hear a lot of “what did you say?” and “I didn’t hear that”. Of course the rule is you can only say it once so the person must share what they think they heard. After a few times, speaking becomes slower and more distinct and listening is keyed in on every word that is said. In our verse today God told the children of Israel to observe this ordinance forever. What if God had only said it once? What if Moses got it wrong? What if the people did not listen or began to not care? Well fortunately for them God gave them many examples to remind them of what he said. Moses took time to write it down so they would have it forever. And at first the children of Israel were very interested in anything that would keep them free from slavery. But in time we find some of them losing interest in the details of what God said and their lives are miserable as a result. Our communication with our loved ones is often much the same. Early in the relationship we listen closely to every word and detail. But after a few years we half heartedly listen anymore and the details get all mixed up. And as a result often our lives are miserable.
LETTING THE WORD AFFECT OUR LIVES:
One of the greatest
ways of showing someone how much you love and respect them is by how well you
listen to what they have to say. This is true with a spouse, a friend, a child
and most importantly with God. Jesus even said in
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January 23rd
R – Roles and Responsibilities
GETTING PEOPLE INTO THE WORD OF GOD:
Exodus 16: 21 & 26 And they gathered it every morning, every man according to his eating: and when the sun waxed hot, it melted….. Six days ye shall gather it; but on the seventh day, which is the sabbath, in it there shall be none.
GETTING THE WORD OF GOD INTO PEOPLE:
Does God really supply our needs? Every God fearing Christians just answered yes. So if that’s true we should be able to set back and wait upon God’s blessings and not have to work right? If you answered yes, opps, you slipped off into fairy tale land. God has always required man to work and supply for his family. God supplied the manna, but men were required to go out and get it. Enough for themselves and all that resided with them. And not only did they have to work daily to feed their family, they had to do it God’s way. No sleeping in here. Every man had to get up every day and get the manna before the sun melted it. The sleepyhead received no bread. Could you imagine a day in a tent with everyone mad and hungry all day because you caught a few extra winks. And then you have mister crafty that is going to gather enough today for the next week so he can do things his own way. Opps again, that didn’t work. The bread spoiled and was wasted. But God did supply for a day of rest. That day was to be spent resting from all labor and worshiping the God that supplied. So God made the manna last an extra day on just that day. And yet we read that some went out on the day to find food again. Either they did not obey God and gather enough for two days the day before or they were just greedy and wanted even more than what God said He would supply. And what they did broke God’s heart. In America we have people that live that same way. God has supplied, but they want to be given everything without working. Or they try to outsmart God and do it another way than what God said to. And then the greed sets in and we can’t even take out one day to rest and worship the God that has provided so much. And we break God’s heart. Our main role as Christians is to display to all that we do trust God to take care of us. That does not mean we do not work. But we need to do things God’s way and for His Glory.
LETTING THE WORD AFFECT OUR LIVES:
Think for a second of those that did what God said. They did so much every day and then enjoyed the rest of the day. Wasn’t their life easier than that of those trying to continually outsmart God? God’s plans are always so much easier. Why fight God?
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January 24th
E – Each Other
GETTING PEOPLE INTO THE WORD OF GOD:
Exodus 18:7 And Moses went out to meet his father in law, and did obeisance, and kissed him; and they asked each other of their welfare; and they came into the tent.
GETTING THE WORD OF GOD INTO PEOPLE:
At first reading of chapter 18 in Exodus we might begin to wonder what happened between Moses and his family that he would send them back home. Some have speculated that his wife saw all the troubles that the children of Israel were about to face and she left Moses. Some also believe that possibly Moses saw the hostilities being shown toward him from his own people and wanted to spare his children from such behavior so he sent them back to their grandfather’s home with their mother. The bible is not really clear as to why they were apart, but from this verse here we can see their was no hatred in the family nor anger toward one another. And now here is the million dollar question. Ready? How does Moses show affection to his wife in three ways in verse seven? I’ll give you a minute to re-read it. Do you see it? Moses shows real affection to his wife by showing great respect for her father. First it says he did obeisance. This means he bowed himself before his father-in-law. And this was not a from the hip bow forward bow. It meant to get down on your knees and place your forehead on the ground in front of you with your back arched. It was painful and showed complete humility, reverence and trust. There is no defense from any attack in this position. Next he kissed him. Although the bow was a display of formal reverence, the kiss was a sign of friendship. He was saying I not only respect you, but I deeply appreciate you and desire your friendship. And then he inquired about his wellbeing and the family. This was not done as we do today with a passing sort of “hey Bob how are ya,” inquiry. It was a heart felt desire to know that everything was ok at home. Respecting and caring about the family of your loved one is an often missed way of telling them you care about them and their past. Moses was showing affection to his family by letting them know that cared deeply for the entire family.
LETTING THE WORD AFFECT OUR LIVES:
The last time you asked a family member “How are things going?” did you mean it? Take some time to get to know your loved ones family. Pray for them today. Lift them up to God and ask Him to help you with your relationship with them. It will mean a lot to that special someone in your life to know that you’ll really take time to care.
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January 25th
V - Vision
GETTING PEOPLE INTO THE WORD OF GOD:
Exodus 24:3 And Moses came and told the people all the words of the LORD, and all the judgments: and all the people answered with one voice, and said, All the words which the LORD hath said will we do.
GETTING THE WORD OF GOD INTO PEOPLE:
Have you ever had an argument with a loved one, friend or colleague? OK, that’s a silly question. If we’re honest we all have to answer yes. Now here’s and even better question? Who was right? We all want to believe we are right. In fact, if we did not believe we were right, most of our arguments would disappear. But what makes us believe so strongly we are right? One reason might be because our family always did it that way and it worked ok for them. But what if someone else did it another way and that way also worked for them? Then whose way is right? Or possibly your reasoning for defending your position is, I just have this feeling and I know I’m right. Yup, that even sounds like a lame defense doesn’t it? So how do you settle the arguments? Making up is fun, but how do you get there? Wouldn’t it be nice if there was just a definite answer to most all your arguments? Sort of a central point that both of you were looking toward. That is what having a common vision is about. It’s a goal that all parties can agree on as being best for all involved. That is what the Children of Israel agreed to here in our verse today. They agreed whatever God said would be the final answer and they’d do it. As we read on through the Bible we find also as long as they obeyed that guideline, life was ok. As soon as they strayed and wanted things their way again, life started getting rough. Having a common goal and using God’s word to help set those goals will help avoid a lot of conflict in any relationship. Whether that is marriage, business, church or friends two must walk as one. Letting God’s word be our guide in setting life’s goals gives us someplace to always come back to. And you will always know that one of the three of you is totally right. God’s always right.
LETTING THE WORD AFFECT OUR LIVES:
Now don’t go off thinking there will never be anymore colorful discussions. Even with a common goal there are often differences in opinions as to how to reach that goal. But at least you know that you’re working in the same direction with a unified vision. And when the debate get’s heated, talk to life’s referee. God is listening. If you honestly take your problems before Him and agree to do whatever He says, you’ll find you’re humble before Him and one another. Then making up is just around the corner.
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January 26th
E- Economics
GETTING PEOPLE INTO THE WORD OF GOD:
Exodus 25:1 & 2 And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, Speak unto the children of Israel, that they bring me an offering: of every man that giveth it willingly with his heart ye shall take my offering.
GETTING THE WORD OF GOD INTO PEOPLE:
In our text today we find the LORD speaking to the Pastor of the largest group of people ever known. He was leading millions of people spiritually and physically. God tells him, go to the people and ask them to give offerings. Now think for a second who he was to talk to. These people had no way of making a living at the time. Whatever they had was all that they had. Now Moses was asking them to give up some of what they did have. But where did they get it? Remember when they left Egypt, God caused them to find favor with the Egyptians and they received anything they asked for. So where did they get it? From God! Why did they get it? For this purpose. God had a plan for a tabernacle, which the offering was going to build, way before anyone knew of such a structure. Another thing we see is Moses was to take offerings from only those that gave willingly with his heart. He was not to browbeat and coheres them to give. He was simply to tell them what God had said and get from those that had a desire to be obedient to God. One more thing to consider, what else were they going to use these offering items for? There were no stores to buy and sell from or utilities that had to be paid. God made their clothes to last for what seemed like eternity and their food was being poured out from heaven daily. God was supplying their every need. Oh, they could have saved it for when they did get where they were going. But who knew when that would be? And until then, God was going to have to take care of them. So if He asks for something, why not give it to Him right? He could always give them more if He wants to. He did before, right? Friend, God has not changed. He does not call preachers to beg for money. Simply share God’s plan for tithes and offerings and leave it alone. All that we have we have received from God and He has a plan for it and you. He only desires that people love Him and trust Him and want to give to Him with their heart. And He has promised to supply our needs. He never changes.
LETTING THE WORD AFFECT OUR LIVES:
Take a moment; give your all to God. If you’ve never given Him your life, ask Him to forgive you of your sin and come into your heart. You’ll never surrender anything else until you surrender yourself. Thank Him for His Goodness. He never changes.
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January 27th
R- Relationships and Romance
GETTING PEOPLE INTO THE WORD OF GOD:
Exodus 29: 44-45 And I will sanctify the tabernacle of the congregation, and the altar: I will sanctify also both Aaron and his sons, to minister to me in the priest’s office. And I will dwell among the children of Israel, and will be their God.
GETTING THE WORD OF GOD INTO PEOPLE:
“I will Sanctify.” What does that mean? It means to be made clean or to be set apart for a specific purpose. God has just told the children of Israel as well as Moses and Aaron in particular, that He has set them and this dwelling place apart. And when God sanctifies and comes into to dwell there He brings with Him the Holiness of God. Did you read Exodus chapters 28 and 29? They are the preparation chapters for this statement. First there were the particular garments that were prepared. Beautiful in appearance and detailed to the last stitch. Next you have the ceremony. All the things that Aaron and his sons needed to be willing to do in their new position in God’s house. And then you have God saying I will dwell with you here. Sounds almost like a wedding doesn’t it? We pick out the right clothes and look as good as possible for each other. We have a ceremony and go in front or God and witnesses and agree to love and honor one another. We agree to set this person apart from all others and remain with them through everything that this world has to offer. And then we go to a structure set apart for us to dwell together in and we call it home. If you reread chapter 29 you will also find that Aaron and his sons were to continually be ready to serve. They were to always have a sacrifice burning. The relationship they were entering into took work. But it was so worth it. When we agree to marry someone it should be much the same. Be ready to serve the needs of the other. Always be willing to sacrifice for the others well being. And what a relationship that would be. That is exactly what God had in mind. He displayed it with the Children of Israel. He has shown it today with His bride the church. And He is calling on Christians to display this at home. What is this? Sanctification. Setting our life apart for something special. Keeping it clean before the world and each other. And when God moves in He brings His holiness with Him.
LETTING THE WORD AFFECT OUR LIVES:
How can I serve someone special today? How can I show them they are special to me? Everyone will have a different answer. But everyone will have almost the same response. People love to know they are loved. Thank you God, for this gift of Love.
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January 28th
F - Foundation
GETTING PEOPLE INTO THE WORD OF GOD:
Exodus 29:46 And they shall know that I am the LORD their God, that brought them forth out of the land of Egypt, that I may dwell among them: I am the LORD their God.
GETTING THE WORD OF GOD INTO PEOPLE:
As you read through the final verse of yesterdays reading, ask yourself, what is the most important word or phrase in that verse? Read it a couple of times. Some of you might be looking at the phrase “I AM”. And this is part of the name God gave to Himself before Moses at the burning bush. It says in Exodus 3:14 And God said unto Moses, I AM THAT I AM: and he said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I AM hath sent me unto you. So that is important, but I was looking at just one word. Some of you might now be saying, it must be “LORD.” And oh my friend, how important that word is. That He is the Lord of our life. The leader in all we say and do. And even that name in this text means the self existent one. Or, I am because I am and not because of another creator. But actually I was looking at just a three letter word. OK, now you have it cornered right? It has to be “God.” And again I know that you are right too. The word God here is so very important to this verse. The word for God here is originally “ĕlôhı̂ym” which is a plural form of the word God. It denotes the Godhead of Father, Son and Holy Spirit al