Daniel
Read Chapter 18
The Greatest Statement Ever
"if we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to save us from it, and he will rescue us from your hand, O king. But even if he does not, we want you to know, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up." Daniel 3:17-18
"but even if he doesn't"
As a teacher in the 70’s and 80’s an English teacher friend of mine down the hall faced the untimely death of his wife leaving him with two little children to raise alone. Our friendship grew and he accepted Christ as his Savior.
His grief was excruciating. After a year or two at a bonfire one night, John felt that he wanted to share this passage from Daniel with us. In doing so, he chose to be where he was, expect nothing more and to make Jesus not just his Savior but also his Lord. Ironically in expecting nothing more, he received more than he could have ever imagined.
Prayer
Lord, I admit it’s easier to say this having lost much instead of having gained much. Father protect me from the blinding enchantment of this material world. Yes, thank you for pain that disenchants . Amen”
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
Monday, January 30, 2012
Daniel
Read Chapter 18
The King of Babylon chose the best of the Jewish exiles to serve him personally.
“young men without any physical defect, handsome, showing aptitude for every kind of learning, well informed, quick to understand, and qualified to serve in the king's palace. They were to learn the language and literature of the Babylonians. The king assigned them a daily amount of food and wine from the king's table. They were to be trained for three years, and after that they were to enter the king's service."
“Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine . . . At the end of the ten days they looked healthier and better nourished than any of the young men who ate the royal food” Daniel 1:4-5, 8, 16
How should a First Round Draft Pick act when he gets to training camp?
Daniel was the “Tim Tebow” of the Jewish Exiles. Daniel was not only the first round draft pick of Nebuchadnezzar, he was also a first round pick of God. In other words God put him in that position. Why? Because God knew his character. As it turned out Daniel honored God to point of disobeying his Babylonian superiors when it meant eliminating the signs of his covenantal relationship with God, in this case dietary practices. Doing this further enable him to maintain his dependence on God and not on his hosts who would try to “woo” him into their service as opposed to the service of God.
The New Testament says we, too, are first round draft picks, picked to honor God in the training camp we now find ourselves. If you’re having trouble staying faithful note vs. 8 above. Faithfulness has its perks.
Prayer
“Lord, I ask you today to give me the courage, self forgetfulness, perseverance, trust in you and thick enough skin to live for you. . . . . .at home, at work, where I live . . . . . . . .this week. Amen”
Read Chapter 18
The King of Babylon chose the best of the Jewish exiles to serve him personally.
“young men without any physical defect, handsome, showing aptitude for every kind of learning, well informed, quick to understand, and qualified to serve in the king's palace. They were to learn the language and literature of the Babylonians. The king assigned them a daily amount of food and wine from the king's table. They were to be trained for three years, and after that they were to enter the king's service."
“Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine . . . At the end of the ten days they looked healthier and better nourished than any of the young men who ate the royal food” Daniel 1:4-5, 8, 16
How should a First Round Draft Pick act when he gets to training camp?
Daniel was the “Tim Tebow” of the Jewish Exiles. Daniel was not only the first round draft pick of Nebuchadnezzar, he was also a first round pick of God. In other words God put him in that position. Why? Because God knew his character. As it turned out Daniel honored God to point of disobeying his Babylonian superiors when it meant eliminating the signs of his covenantal relationship with God, in this case dietary practices. Doing this further enable him to maintain his dependence on God and not on his hosts who would try to “woo” him into their service as opposed to the service of God.
The New Testament says we, too, are first round draft picks, picked to honor God in the training camp we now find ourselves. If you’re having trouble staying faithful note vs. 8 above. Faithfulness has its perks.
Prayer
“Lord, I ask you today to give me the courage, self forgetfulness, perseverance, trust in you and thick enough skin to live for you. . . . . .at home, at work, where I live . . . . . . . .this week. Amen”
Friday, January 27, 2012
The Kingdom Falls
Chapter 17
Why Do Horror Films Love Cemeteries, Ghosts, and Zombies?
"there was a noise (in the valley of dry bones), a rattling sound, and the bones came together, bone to bone. I looked, and tendons and flesh appeared on them and skin covered them, . . . and breath entered them; they came to life and stood up on their feet--a vast army." Ezekiel 37:4-10 (NIV)
The human mind can conceive of nothing except in reference to God's Truth!
The horror flicks simply build on something we all know deep down within. . . . that cemeteries are not the end of the story. Every culture everywhere in all of human history has constructed a belief in life beyond the grave. The horror flicks simply twist and horriblize what each of us “knows”.
While Hollywood plays on our fears, God plays on our hopes, dreams and godly imagination. One day, Ezekiel sees, Israel will be bodily resurrected and along with her, the entire planet. The dry bones of this gray life will be resurrected into a new creation of vivid color, concrete reality, and the consummate freedom of perfected obedience. (I stole that really cool last phrase from CS Lewis)
When you look at a cemetery and think “is this how it all ends”, think again . . .not of zombies, but of the new creation. Ezekiel saw it and what he saw has compelled believers for more than 2 millenia.
Prayer
"Lord, I believe. Make this my life today full by preparing me for the next one. In Jesus’ holy name. Amen”
Chapter 17
Why Do Horror Films Love Cemeteries, Ghosts, and Zombies?
"there was a noise (in the valley of dry bones), a rattling sound, and the bones came together, bone to bone. I looked, and tendons and flesh appeared on them and skin covered them, . . . and breath entered them; they came to life and stood up on their feet--a vast army." Ezekiel 37:4-10 (NIV)
The human mind can conceive of nothing except in reference to God's Truth!
The horror flicks simply build on something we all know deep down within. . . . that cemeteries are not the end of the story. Every culture everywhere in all of human history has constructed a belief in life beyond the grave. The horror flicks simply twist and horriblize what each of us “knows”.
While Hollywood plays on our fears, God plays on our hopes, dreams and godly imagination. One day, Ezekiel sees, Israel will be bodily resurrected and along with her, the entire planet. The dry bones of this gray life will be resurrected into a new creation of vivid color, concrete reality, and the consummate freedom of perfected obedience. (I stole that really cool last phrase from CS Lewis)
When you look at a cemetery and think “is this how it all ends”, think again . . .not of zombies, but of the new creation. Ezekiel saw it and what he saw has compelled believers for more than 2 millenia.
Prayer
"Lord, I believe. Make this my life today full by preparing me for the next one. In Jesus’ holy name. Amen”
Thursday, January 26, 2012
The Kingdom Falls
Chapter 17
Behind Anger is Much Pain
“Go up and down the streets of Jerusalem,
look around and consider, search through her squares.
If you can find but one person who deals honestly and seeks the truth,
I will forgive this city.
But if you do not listen,
I will weep in secret because of your pride;
my eyes will weep bitterly, overflowing with tears,
because the LORD's flock will be taken captive” Jeremiah 5:1; 13:17
Reflection
I once a saw an absolutely furious woman screaming at the top of her lungs, threatening doom on her teenage son (and she was one to carry out her threats!). Her last words at the top of her lungs were “I love you”. It was a profound expression of true love. She couldn’t stand what he was doing to himself and his family.
Can human or divine love go together with human or divine anger and even punishment? Can God’s love even exist without divine vengeance against those who do violence against others?
In today’s passage we see the heart of God that is behind his judgments. Did you know that God “weeps secretly because of your rebellious pride?” Divine love and divine anger are two sides of the same coin.
Prayer
“Lord, it hurts to see how my rebellion breaks your heart. Forgive me for being so selfish and self absorbed with my rights and my problems. You loved me first, before I ever knew you. Amen”
Chapter 17
Behind Anger is Much Pain
“Go up and down the streets of Jerusalem,
look around and consider, search through her squares.
If you can find but one person who deals honestly and seeks the truth,
I will forgive this city.
But if you do not listen,
I will weep in secret because of your pride;
my eyes will weep bitterly, overflowing with tears,
because the LORD's flock will be taken captive” Jeremiah 5:1; 13:17
Reflection
I once a saw an absolutely furious woman screaming at the top of her lungs, threatening doom on her teenage son (and she was one to carry out her threats!). Her last words at the top of her lungs were “I love you”. It was a profound expression of true love. She couldn’t stand what he was doing to himself and his family.
Can human or divine love go together with human or divine anger and even punishment? Can God’s love even exist without divine vengeance against those who do violence against others?
In today’s passage we see the heart of God that is behind his judgments. Did you know that God “weeps secretly because of your rebellious pride?” Divine love and divine anger are two sides of the same coin.
Prayer
“Lord, it hurts to see how my rebellion breaks your heart. Forgive me for being so selfish and self absorbed with my rights and my problems. You loved me first, before I ever knew you. Amen”
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
The Kingdom Falls
Chapter 17
Jeremiah Didn't Stand a Chance
“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations." Jeremiah 1:5
God has predestined you, too, but it's up to you what you do with it.
Dateline 595 BC: Jeremiah is roaming the streets of Jerusalem seeing desolation and decay everywhere and he knows why. His people had simply abandoned God. He exhorts, he pleads, but to no avail. Years before he had been selected by God to warn and cajole to bring the people back to God. God had also told him that it wouldn’t work. Yet he was called and he was obedient.
You and I have also been predestined by God to serve him in some special way (Romans 8:28-30 and Ephesians 2:8-10). And even though most our obedience will look ineffective, it nevertheless matters.
PRAYER
“Father please help me to let go of my perception of effectiveness for you and simply obey, trusting that what you want is faithfulness, not ‘success’ Amen”
Chapter 17
Jeremiah Didn't Stand a Chance
“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations." Jeremiah 1:5
God has predestined you, too, but it's up to you what you do with it.
Dateline 595 BC: Jeremiah is roaming the streets of Jerusalem seeing desolation and decay everywhere and he knows why. His people had simply abandoned God. He exhorts, he pleads, but to no avail. Years before he had been selected by God to warn and cajole to bring the people back to God. God had also told him that it wouldn’t work. Yet he was called and he was obedient.
You and I have also been predestined by God to serve him in some special way (Romans 8:28-30 and Ephesians 2:8-10). And even though most our obedience will look ineffective, it nevertheless matters.
PRAYER
“Father please help me to let go of my perception of effectiveness for you and simply obey, trusting that what you want is faithfulness, not ‘success’ Amen”
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
The Kingdom Falls
Chapter 17
When Hope Dies
Dateline 597 BC:
“Nebuchadnezzar took Jehoiachin captive to Babylon. He also took from Jerusalem to Babylon the king's mother, his wives, his officials and the leading men of the land” 2 Kings 24:15(NIV)
Background
In Judah, the southern kingdom, the father-not-like-son pattern continued. Hezekiah, a godly king, was followed by his son, Manasseh, who did evil. His son, Josiah was a hero. Josiah discovered the long lost of book of Deuteronomy (perhaps the whole Pentateuch), was astonished at how Judah had strayed and reinstituted biblical worship of Jahweh. His son Jehoahaz was a disaster and the last kings, Jehoiakin, Jehoiakim and Zedekiah were essentially vassals of Babyon.
The end was on the horizon.
One and only one Glimmer of Hope
In 597, 10 years before Judah’s final defeat, thousands of Jews were deported to Bablyon among whom was Ezekiel. He continued to prophecy doom, but never is doom proclaimed without right in the middle of it a pointer to the bigger truth of the upper story. God will repair all that is broken.
“I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. 27 And I will put my Spirit in you and move you to follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws”
Ezekiel 36:25-28
Prayer
"Lord, thank you for the reminder that the old saying ‘it is always darkest before the dawn’ contains a greater truth. But it’s not automatic. It’s true for me only insofar as I put my trust in you. Amen”
Chapter 17
When Hope Dies
Dateline 597 BC:
“Nebuchadnezzar took Jehoiachin captive to Babylon. He also took from Jerusalem to Babylon the king's mother, his wives, his officials and the leading men of the land” 2 Kings 24:15(NIV)
Background
In Judah, the southern kingdom, the father-not-like-son pattern continued. Hezekiah, a godly king, was followed by his son, Manasseh, who did evil. His son, Josiah was a hero. Josiah discovered the long lost of book of Deuteronomy (perhaps the whole Pentateuch), was astonished at how Judah had strayed and reinstituted biblical worship of Jahweh. His son Jehoahaz was a disaster and the last kings, Jehoiakin, Jehoiakim and Zedekiah were essentially vassals of Babyon.
The end was on the horizon.
One and only one Glimmer of Hope
In 597, 10 years before Judah’s final defeat, thousands of Jews were deported to Bablyon among whom was Ezekiel. He continued to prophecy doom, but never is doom proclaimed without right in the middle of it a pointer to the bigger truth of the upper story. God will repair all that is broken.
“I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. 27 And I will put my Spirit in you and move you to follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws”
Ezekiel 36:25-28
Prayer
"Lord, thank you for the reminder that the old saying ‘it is always darkest before the dawn’ contains a greater truth. But it’s not automatic. It’s true for me only insofar as I put my trust in you. Amen”
Monday, January 23, 2012
The Kingdom Falls
Chapter 17
Is it ever too late to repent?
“The LORD spoke to Manasseh and his people, but they paid no attention. So the LORD brought against them the army commanders of the king of Assyria, who took Manasseh prisoner, put a hook in his nose, bound him with bronze shackles and took him to Babylon. In his distress he sought the favor of the LORD his God and humbled himself greatly before the God of his fathers. And when he prayed to him, the LORD was moved by his entreaty and listened to his plea; so he brought him back to Jerusalem and to his kingdom. Then Manasseh knew that the LORD is God." 2 Chronicles 33:10-13(NIV)
Does God save evil people?
Manasseh reinstated idol worship in Judah. He sacrificed his son to Molech. He built idols and altars to other gods in the temple. He practiced divination and sorcery. 2 Kings 21:16 tells us that “Manasseh shed so much innocent blood that he filled Jerusalem end to end.” (During January, Sanctity of Human Life month, you and I should pause and ponder our complicity in the shedding of innocent blood).
As a result Manasseh was punished by God. Did God do this to him or did he simply experience the natural consequences of his actions? Is there a difference?
Manasseh was a brutal, evil man, and he suffered for it. Yet he repented and did so sincerely. Did God forgive him and give him a second chance? Reread the above passage and find out.
Was it too late for him to repent? No. Was it too late to save those for whom he was responsible? Yes. Salvation is about a lot more than me.
Prayer
Lord, please help me to see my own evil before it's too late . . .for others. Amen”
Chapter 17
Is it ever too late to repent?
“The LORD spoke to Manasseh and his people, but they paid no attention. So the LORD brought against them the army commanders of the king of Assyria, who took Manasseh prisoner, put a hook in his nose, bound him with bronze shackles and took him to Babylon. In his distress he sought the favor of the LORD his God and humbled himself greatly before the God of his fathers. And when he prayed to him, the LORD was moved by his entreaty and listened to his plea; so he brought him back to Jerusalem and to his kingdom. Then Manasseh knew that the LORD is God." 2 Chronicles 33:10-13(NIV)
Does God save evil people?
Manasseh reinstated idol worship in Judah. He sacrificed his son to Molech. He built idols and altars to other gods in the temple. He practiced divination and sorcery. 2 Kings 21:16 tells us that “Manasseh shed so much innocent blood that he filled Jerusalem end to end.” (During January, Sanctity of Human Life month, you and I should pause and ponder our complicity in the shedding of innocent blood).
As a result Manasseh was punished by God. Did God do this to him or did he simply experience the natural consequences of his actions? Is there a difference?
Manasseh was a brutal, evil man, and he suffered for it. Yet he repented and did so sincerely. Did God forgive him and give him a second chance? Reread the above passage and find out.
Was it too late for him to repent? No. Was it too late to save those for whom he was responsible? Yes. Salvation is about a lot more than me.
Prayer
Lord, please help me to see my own evil before it's too late . . .for others. Amen”
Friday, January 20, 2012
The Beginning of the End
Read Chapter 16
2 Kings:17-19; Isaiah 3,6,13-14,49,53
Do You Recognize This Person?
“He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to him, nothing in his appearance that we should desire him. 3 He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows, and familiar with suffering. Like one from whom men hide their faces he was despised, and we esteemed him not. 4 Surely he took up our infirmities and carried our sorrows, yet we considered him stricken by God, smitten by him, and afflicted. 5 But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed.
6 We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all. 7 He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth; he was led like a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is silent, so he did not open his mouth. 8 By oppression and judgment he was taken away . . . . . it was the LORD's will to crush him and cause him to suffer, and though the LORD makes his life a guilt offering, he will see his offspring and prolong his days, and the will of the LORD will prosper in his hand . . . . . he poured out his life unto death, and was numbered with the transgressors. For he bore the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors." Isaiah 53:1-12 (NIV)
This astonishing passage has traditionally been thought to have referred to Israel, herself the “suffering servant”, suffering for the sins of the world. Yet it seems inescapable that Jesus is being described in incredible detail 700 years before his birth, not, by the way, the picture of a handsome, wind-swept, rugged northern European.
To Isaiah, who had met the holiness of God face to face and stricken by it (Isaiah 6), is now revealed the humility of this very same God who comes to earth, not in power but in in weakness, giving his life so that the world’s sins are forgiven, opening the door to salvation to all.
Whom have you met in your lifetime who has revealed to you even a hint of this combination of greatness and power expressed through self abandoning humility?
Prayer
Lord, I am thinking of the song we sing in church, “there’s no God like Jehovah”. And today’s passage explains why. Lord, you have reached the world through serving, humility and absorbing sin rather than retaliating. Help me and my life to reflect you. Amen”
Read Chapter 16
2 Kings:17-19; Isaiah 3,6,13-14,49,53
Do You Recognize This Person?
“He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to him, nothing in his appearance that we should desire him. 3 He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows, and familiar with suffering. Like one from whom men hide their faces he was despised, and we esteemed him not. 4 Surely he took up our infirmities and carried our sorrows, yet we considered him stricken by God, smitten by him, and afflicted. 5 But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed.
6 We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all. 7 He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth; he was led like a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is silent, so he did not open his mouth. 8 By oppression and judgment he was taken away . . . . . it was the LORD's will to crush him and cause him to suffer, and though the LORD makes his life a guilt offering, he will see his offspring and prolong his days, and the will of the LORD will prosper in his hand . . . . . he poured out his life unto death, and was numbered with the transgressors. For he bore the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors." Isaiah 53:1-12 (NIV)
This astonishing passage has traditionally been thought to have referred to Israel, herself the “suffering servant”, suffering for the sins of the world. Yet it seems inescapable that Jesus is being described in incredible detail 700 years before his birth, not, by the way, the picture of a handsome, wind-swept, rugged northern European.
To Isaiah, who had met the holiness of God face to face and stricken by it (Isaiah 6), is now revealed the humility of this very same God who comes to earth, not in power but in in weakness, giving his life so that the world’s sins are forgiven, opening the door to salvation to all.
Whom have you met in your lifetime who has revealed to you even a hint of this combination of greatness and power expressed through self abandoning humility?
Prayer
Lord, I am thinking of the song we sing in church, “there’s no God like Jehovah”. And today’s passage explains why. Lord, you have reached the world through serving, humility and absorbing sin rather than retaliating. Help me and my life to reflect you. Amen”
Thursday, January 19, 2012
The Beginning of the End
Read Chapter 16
2 Kings 17-19; Isaiah 3, 6, 13-14, 49, 53
John 3:16 in the Old Testament
Translation
“God says: 'It is too small a thing for you to be my servant to restore the tribes of Jacob and bring back those of Israel I have kept. I will also make you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring my salvation to the ends of the earth.' " Isaiah 49:6 (NIV)
Paraphrase
“God says, 'But that's not a big enough job for my servant— just to recover the tribes of Jacob, merely to round up the strays of Israel. I'm setting you up as a light for the nations so that my salvation becomes global!' " Isaiah 49:6 (MSG)
Prayer
“Lord you have blessed the descendants of Abraham to be a blessing to the world. Through Jesus Christ I am adopted into Abraham’s family and as such receive those blessings myself. Lord, open my eyes today and throughout the week to opportunities to fulfill today’s scripture, to bring your blessings and good news of forgiveness and grace to those around me. Lord help me to let YOUR light shine. In Jesus Name Amen”
Read Chapter 16
2 Kings 17-19; Isaiah 3, 6, 13-14, 49, 53
John 3:16 in the Old Testament
Translation
“God says: 'It is too small a thing for you to be my servant to restore the tribes of Jacob and bring back those of Israel I have kept. I will also make you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring my salvation to the ends of the earth.' " Isaiah 49:6 (NIV)
Paraphrase
“God says, 'But that's not a big enough job for my servant— just to recover the tribes of Jacob, merely to round up the strays of Israel. I'm setting you up as a light for the nations so that my salvation becomes global!' " Isaiah 49:6 (MSG)
Prayer
“Lord you have blessed the descendants of Abraham to be a blessing to the world. Through Jesus Christ I am adopted into Abraham’s family and as such receive those blessings myself. Lord, open my eyes today and throughout the week to opportunities to fulfill today’s scripture, to bring your blessings and good news of forgiveness and grace to those around me. Lord help me to let YOUR light shine. In Jesus Name Amen”
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
The Beginning of the End
Read Chapter 16
2 Kings 17-19, Isaiah 3,6,13-14, 49, 53
ISAIAH MEETS GOD
“In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord seated on a throne, high and exalted, and the train of his robe filled the temple.
Above him were seraphs, each with six wings: with two wings they covered their faces, with two they covered their feet, and with two they were flying. And they were calling to one another: "Holy, holy, holy is the LORD Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory." At the sound of their voices the doorposts and thresholds shook and the temple was filled with smoke.
God’s holiness and Isaiah’s sinfulness
"Woe to me!" I cried. "I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips, and my eyes have seen the King, the LORD Almighty."
The painful joy of forgiveness
Then one of the seraphs flew to me with a live coal in his hand, which he had taken with tongs from the altar. With it he touched my mouth and said, "See, this has touched your lips; your guilt is taken away and your sin atoned for."
The response to being forgiven
Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, "Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?" And I said, "Here am I. Send me!"
Few will listen
He said, "Go and tell this people: "'Be ever hearing, but never understanding; be ever seeing, but never perceiving.' 10 Make the heart of this people calloused; make their ears dull and close their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts, and turn and be healed."Isaiah 6:1-10 (NIV)
Prayer
Father, I have yet to experience you in such a painfully exquisite, holy, demanding, yet full of Grace way. Yet I want to see you as Isaiah did. I am afraid to meet you as you are, but I am more afraid of not meeting you as you are. Amen."
Read Chapter 16
2 Kings 17-19, Isaiah 3,6,13-14, 49, 53
ISAIAH MEETS GOD
“In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord seated on a throne, high and exalted, and the train of his robe filled the temple.
Above him were seraphs, each with six wings: with two wings they covered their faces, with two they covered their feet, and with two they were flying. And they were calling to one another: "Holy, holy, holy is the LORD Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory." At the sound of their voices the doorposts and thresholds shook and the temple was filled with smoke.
God’s holiness and Isaiah’s sinfulness
"Woe to me!" I cried. "I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips, and my eyes have seen the King, the LORD Almighty."
The painful joy of forgiveness
Then one of the seraphs flew to me with a live coal in his hand, which he had taken with tongs from the altar. With it he touched my mouth and said, "See, this has touched your lips; your guilt is taken away and your sin atoned for."
The response to being forgiven
Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, "Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?" And I said, "Here am I. Send me!"
Few will listen
He said, "Go and tell this people: "'Be ever hearing, but never understanding; be ever seeing, but never perceiving.' 10 Make the heart of this people calloused; make their ears dull and close their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts, and turn and be healed."Isaiah 6:1-10 (NIV)
Prayer
Father, I have yet to experience you in such a painfully exquisite, holy, demanding, yet full of Grace way. Yet I want to see you as Isaiah did. I am afraid to meet you as you are, but I am more afraid of not meeting you as you are. Amen."
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
The Beginning of the End
Chapter 16
2 Kings 17-19; Isaiah 3,6, 13-14, 49, 53
Isaiah speaks God’s Word to Judah . . . . . And to 21st Century America
"What do you mean by crushing my people and grinding the faces of the poor?" declares the Lord, the LORD Almighty. The LORD says, "The women of Zion are haughty, walking along with outstretched necks, flirting with their eyes, tripping along with mincing steps, with ornaments jingling on their ankles. 17 Therefore the Lord will bring sores on the heads of the women of Zion; the LORD will make their scalps bald." 18 In that day the Lord will snatch away their finery: the bangles and headbands and crescent necklaces, 19 the earrings and bracelets and veils, 20 the headdresses and ankle chains and sashes, the perfume bottles and charms, 21 the signet rings and nose rings, 22 the fine robes and the capes and cloaks, the purses 23 and mirrors, and the linen garments and tiaras and shawls. 24 Instead of fragrance there will be a stench; instead of a sash, a rope; instead of well-dressed hair, baldness; instead of fine clothing, sackcloth; instead of beauty, branding.
25 Your men will fall by the sword, your warriors in battle. 26 The gates of Zion will lament and mourn; destitute, she will sit on the ground." Isaiah 3:15-26 (NIV)
Prayer
Lord today’s scripture hits home. I know you’re not against beauty but that you are angered by opulence when others don’t have enough to eat. I know you pained by our self indulgence, particularly when at the expense of those less fortunate. And I feel convicted. Forgive me, forgive all of us for our over the top materialism and give your perspective and your heart. Help me to see as you see, as a parent who want the most well off of his children to care for his brothers and sisters as for himself. Amen.
Chapter 16
2 Kings 17-19; Isaiah 3,6, 13-14, 49, 53
Isaiah speaks God’s Word to Judah . . . . . And to 21st Century America
"What do you mean by crushing my people and grinding the faces of the poor?" declares the Lord, the LORD Almighty. The LORD says, "The women of Zion are haughty, walking along with outstretched necks, flirting with their eyes, tripping along with mincing steps, with ornaments jingling on their ankles. 17 Therefore the Lord will bring sores on the heads of the women of Zion; the LORD will make their scalps bald." 18 In that day the Lord will snatch away their finery: the bangles and headbands and crescent necklaces, 19 the earrings and bracelets and veils, 20 the headdresses and ankle chains and sashes, the perfume bottles and charms, 21 the signet rings and nose rings, 22 the fine robes and the capes and cloaks, the purses 23 and mirrors, and the linen garments and tiaras and shawls. 24 Instead of fragrance there will be a stench; instead of a sash, a rope; instead of well-dressed hair, baldness; instead of fine clothing, sackcloth; instead of beauty, branding.
25 Your men will fall by the sword, your warriors in battle. 26 The gates of Zion will lament and mourn; destitute, she will sit on the ground." Isaiah 3:15-26 (NIV)
Prayer
Lord today’s scripture hits home. I know you’re not against beauty but that you are angered by opulence when others don’t have enough to eat. I know you pained by our self indulgence, particularly when at the expense of those less fortunate. And I feel convicted. Forgive me, forgive all of us for our over the top materialism and give your perspective and your heart. Help me to see as you see, as a parent who want the most well off of his children to care for his brothers and sisters as for himself. Amen.
Monday, January 16, 2012
The Beginning of the End
Chapter 16
2 Kings 17-19, Isaiah 3, 6, 13-14, 49, 53
Hezekiah
"He did what was right in the eyes of the LORD, just as his father David had done. He removed the high places, smashed the sacred stones and cut down the Asherah poles. He broke into pieces the bronze snake Moses had made, for up to that time the Israelites had been burning incense to it. (It was called Nehushtan.) Hezekiah trusted in the LORD, the God of Israel. There was no one like him among all the kings of Judah, either before him or after him. He held fast to the LORD and did not cease to follow him; he kept the commands the LORD had given Moses. And the LORD was with him; he was successful in whatever he undertook."
What made Hezekiah special?
In 722 BC the brutal nation of Assyria destroyed the northern kingdom known as Israel. After a 3 year siege they deported most the inhabitants and intermarried with the rest. From this comes the often asked and falsely answered question, "What happened to the 10 lost tribes of Israel?"
In the southern kingdom (Judah) God raised up Hezekiah to lead the nation back to God. It was the faith and actions described in the above passage which invited God's amazing intervention to prevent the same fate for them that had befallen the northern kingdom. They were able to fend off the Sennacherib of Assyria.
Is there really a connection between the worship, behavior, values, and morality of a nation and its vulnerability to decline and even defeat? Of course the biblical authors believe so, and therefore I do also. I also believe this because an objective glance at world history indicates the same thing.
More important than railing against the moral and spiritual decline of America, however, is looking in the mirror and asking the really hard question, "Am I part of the problem?"
Prayer
Lord, with every incidence of moral and spiritual decline that I see in my nation, help me to use what I see not as accusation against others, but as accountability for myself. Lord, I don't want to be among the reasons the "word of the Lord is rare" in these days. Amen.
Chapter 16
2 Kings 17-19, Isaiah 3, 6, 13-14, 49, 53
Hezekiah
"He did what was right in the eyes of the LORD, just as his father David had done. He removed the high places, smashed the sacred stones and cut down the Asherah poles. He broke into pieces the bronze snake Moses had made, for up to that time the Israelites had been burning incense to it. (It was called Nehushtan.) Hezekiah trusted in the LORD, the God of Israel. There was no one like him among all the kings of Judah, either before him or after him. He held fast to the LORD and did not cease to follow him; he kept the commands the LORD had given Moses. And the LORD was with him; he was successful in whatever he undertook."
What made Hezekiah special?
In 722 BC the brutal nation of Assyria destroyed the northern kingdom known as Israel. After a 3 year siege they deported most the inhabitants and intermarried with the rest. From this comes the often asked and falsely answered question, "What happened to the 10 lost tribes of Israel?"
In the southern kingdom (Judah) God raised up Hezekiah to lead the nation back to God. It was the faith and actions described in the above passage which invited God's amazing intervention to prevent the same fate for them that had befallen the northern kingdom. They were able to fend off the Sennacherib of Assyria.
Is there really a connection between the worship, behavior, values, and morality of a nation and its vulnerability to decline and even defeat? Of course the biblical authors believe so, and therefore I do also. I also believe this because an objective glance at world history indicates the same thing.
More important than railing against the moral and spiritual decline of America, however, is looking in the mirror and asking the really hard question, "Am I part of the problem?"
Prayer
Lord, with every incidence of moral and spiritual decline that I see in my nation, help me to use what I see not as accusation against others, but as accountability for myself. Lord, I don't want to be among the reasons the "word of the Lord is rare" in these days. Amen.
Friday, January 13, 2012
God's Messengers
Chapter 15
1 Kings 17-19; 2 Kings 2, 4, 6; Hosea 4-5, 8-9, 14; Amos 1, 3-5, 9
Ouch!
"I hate, I despise your religious feasts;
I cannot stand your assemblies.
Even though you bring me burnt offerings and grain offerings,
I will not accept them.
Though you bring choice fellowship offerings,
I will have no regard for them.
Away with the noise of your songs!
I will not listen to the music of your harps.
But let justice roll on like a river,
righteousness like a never-failing stream!" Amos 5:21-24(NIV)
Do We Worship Well?
This passage is one the most referenced in the Old Testament. It’s much quoted, but, I suspect, underheeded.
Worship is far more than what happens in church on Sunday morning. Amos tells Israel that God hates their worship, great music and generous offerings. Why? Because they engage in business and social practices which take advantage of the underprivileged.
I am far from an “occupy Wall Street” fan, but, with the growing disparity between rich and poor in America, might they not be saying something we need to hear? Key Enron execs were elders in their churches.
Am I too self satisfied in my suburban comfort?
Worship has more to do with how I live my life than with how I receive, praise, or give in Sunday morning services.
Prayer
"Lord, Amos convicts. He warned against selfishness. His warning went unheeded and Israel fell. Forgive my smug assumption that we who are among the wealthiest people on the planet are exempt from the same fate. Let Justice (fairness from Your perspective) roll down like a river. Amen”
Chapter 15
1 Kings 17-19; 2 Kings 2, 4, 6; Hosea 4-5, 8-9, 14; Amos 1, 3-5, 9
Ouch!
"I hate, I despise your religious feasts;
I cannot stand your assemblies.
Even though you bring me burnt offerings and grain offerings,
I will not accept them.
Though you bring choice fellowship offerings,
I will have no regard for them.
Away with the noise of your songs!
I will not listen to the music of your harps.
But let justice roll on like a river,
righteousness like a never-failing stream!" Amos 5:21-24(NIV)
Do We Worship Well?
This passage is one the most referenced in the Old Testament. It’s much quoted, but, I suspect, underheeded.
Worship is far more than what happens in church on Sunday morning. Amos tells Israel that God hates their worship, great music and generous offerings. Why? Because they engage in business and social practices which take advantage of the underprivileged.
I am far from an “occupy Wall Street” fan, but, with the growing disparity between rich and poor in America, might they not be saying something we need to hear? Key Enron execs were elders in their churches.
Am I too self satisfied in my suburban comfort?
Worship has more to do with how I live my life than with how I receive, praise, or give in Sunday morning services.
Prayer
"Lord, Amos convicts. He warned against selfishness. His warning went unheeded and Israel fell. Forgive my smug assumption that we who are among the wealthiest people on the planet are exempt from the same fate. Let Justice (fairness from Your perspective) roll down like a river. Amen”
Thursday, January 12, 2012
God's Messengers
Chapter 15
I Kings 17-19; 2 Kings 2, 4, 6; Hosea 4-5, 8-9, 14; Amos 1, 3-5, 9
Can You See What's REALLY there?
"The king of Aram was at war with Israel.
When Elisha and Gehazi woke up early the next morning, Aram’s army with horses and chariots had surrounded the city.
'Oh, my lord, what shall we do?' Gehazi asked.
'Don't be afraid,' the Elisha answered. 'Those who are with us are more than those who are with them.' 17 And Elisha prayed, 'O LORD, open his eyes so he may see.
'Then the LORD opened the servant's eyes, and he looked and saw the hills full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha." 2 Kings 6:8-17
Take the Selective Attention Test
You must count CAREFULLY!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vJG698U2Mvo
How did you do? What does that teach you about what you see in your day to day life? Does one’s object of focus matter? What is the difference in focus between Elisha and Gehazi? Which one was seeing life as it really is?
Prayer
"Lord, please open my eyes that I may see. I don’t want to miss your presence, your activity, your angels right in front of my nose. Gehazi must have been astonished, not to mention comforted. I too take comfort in your protection. Thank You. Amen”
Chapter 15
I Kings 17-19; 2 Kings 2, 4, 6; Hosea 4-5, 8-9, 14; Amos 1, 3-5, 9
Can You See What's REALLY there?
"The king of Aram was at war with Israel.
When Elisha and Gehazi woke up early the next morning, Aram’s army with horses and chariots had surrounded the city.
'Oh, my lord, what shall we do?' Gehazi asked.
'Don't be afraid,' the Elisha answered. 'Those who are with us are more than those who are with them.' 17 And Elisha prayed, 'O LORD, open his eyes so he may see.
'Then the LORD opened the servant's eyes, and he looked and saw the hills full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha." 2 Kings 6:8-17
Take the Selective Attention Test
You must count CAREFULLY!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vJG698U2Mvo
How did you do? What does that teach you about what you see in your day to day life? Does one’s object of focus matter? What is the difference in focus between Elisha and Gehazi? Which one was seeing life as it really is?
Prayer
"Lord, please open my eyes that I may see. I don’t want to miss your presence, your activity, your angels right in front of my nose. Gehazi must have been astonished, not to mention comforted. I too take comfort in your protection. Thank You. Amen”
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
More to The Story
Chapter 15
1 Kings 17-19; 2 Kings 2, 4, 6; Hosea 4-5, 8-9, 14; Amos 1, 3-5, 9
The Floating Axhead
“Elisha was helping to build a school to train prophets. . . . .As one of them was cutting down a tree, the iron axhead fell into the water. 'Oh, my lord,' he cried out, 'it was borrowed!' Elisha asked, 'Where did it fall?' When he showed him the place, Elisha cut a stick and threw it there, and made the iron float. 7 'Lift it out,' he said. Then the man reached out his hand and took it."2 Kings 6:1-7
If Anything Matters, Everything Matters
I typically have two thoughts when I come to stories like this one. First, I naturally think that iron doesn’t float, that the story must somehow have been embellished. Second, I think about the resurrection and realize that if I believe that happened, then I can think of no reason not to believe this event happened. Of course there are many other factors to take into consideration, but we must not allow ourselves to force fit the Bible into our preconceptions of what “must” be.
Second, the borrowed ax matters. Somebody owned it and it’s right to return it. God cares about the little things.
Prayer
"Father, as Creator of all that is, open my eyes to your power and grace at work in the smallest of life’s details: a found watch, a wallet returned with the cash untouched, a thought received at a time that can only have been strategically placed by You, and yes, even a piece of iron surfacing so that my neighbor can have his axe back. Thank You, Lord. Amen"
Chapter 15
1 Kings 17-19; 2 Kings 2, 4, 6; Hosea 4-5, 8-9, 14; Amos 1, 3-5, 9
The Floating Axhead
“Elisha was helping to build a school to train prophets. . . . .As one of them was cutting down a tree, the iron axhead fell into the water. 'Oh, my lord,' he cried out, 'it was borrowed!' Elisha asked, 'Where did it fall?' When he showed him the place, Elisha cut a stick and threw it there, and made the iron float. 7 'Lift it out,' he said. Then the man reached out his hand and took it."2 Kings 6:1-7
If Anything Matters, Everything Matters
I typically have two thoughts when I come to stories like this one. First, I naturally think that iron doesn’t float, that the story must somehow have been embellished. Second, I think about the resurrection and realize that if I believe that happened, then I can think of no reason not to believe this event happened. Of course there are many other factors to take into consideration, but we must not allow ourselves to force fit the Bible into our preconceptions of what “must” be.
Second, the borrowed ax matters. Somebody owned it and it’s right to return it. God cares about the little things.
Prayer
"Father, as Creator of all that is, open my eyes to your power and grace at work in the smallest of life’s details: a found watch, a wallet returned with the cash untouched, a thought received at a time that can only have been strategically placed by You, and yes, even a piece of iron surfacing so that my neighbor can have his axe back. Thank You, Lord. Amen"
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
More to The Story
Chapter 15
1 Kings 17-19; 2 Kings 2, 4, 6; Hosea 4-5, 8-9, 14; Amos 1, 3-5, 9
Chariots of Fire
"Elijah said to Elisha, 'Tell me, what can I do for you before I am taken from you?'
'Let me inherit a double portion of your spirit,' Elisha replied.
'You have asked a difficult thing,' Elijah said, 'yet . . . it will be yours.' "
As they were walking along and talking together, suddenly a chariot of fire and horses of fire appeared and separated the two of them, and Elijah went up to heaven in a whirlwind. 12 Elisha saw this and cried out, 'My father! My father! The chariots and horsemen of Israel!' And Elisha saw him no more”. 2 Kings 2:9-12
"Swing Lo, Sweet Chariot, comin' a-for to carry me home"
Elijah and Elisha are the two most well known prophets of those who did not leave written records. Elijah trained Elisha to succeed him as mouthpiece of the Lord to the leaders of Israel and now Elijah was about end his time one earth.
Elisha was trained well. He knew that he could not serve the Lord or his nation or his king well on his own power. He asked for a double portion of the power of God his mentor had had.
Suddenly, the Lord swept Elisha’s mentor away and he was left “only” with the Lord to empower him.
Prayer
Lord, the African American Spiritual was sung as a promise of escape from oppression. Lord, my request is that “your chariot” swing low enough to pick me up at exactly those times will we need you most this week. Lord, I need you. In Jesus’ name. Amen
Chapter 15
1 Kings 17-19; 2 Kings 2, 4, 6; Hosea 4-5, 8-9, 14; Amos 1, 3-5, 9
Chariots of Fire
"Elijah said to Elisha, 'Tell me, what can I do for you before I am taken from you?'
'Let me inherit a double portion of your spirit,' Elisha replied.
'You have asked a difficult thing,' Elijah said, 'yet . . . it will be yours.' "
As they were walking along and talking together, suddenly a chariot of fire and horses of fire appeared and separated the two of them, and Elijah went up to heaven in a whirlwind. 12 Elisha saw this and cried out, 'My father! My father! The chariots and horsemen of Israel!' And Elisha saw him no more”. 2 Kings 2:9-12
"Swing Lo, Sweet Chariot, comin' a-for to carry me home"
Elijah and Elisha are the two most well known prophets of those who did not leave written records. Elijah trained Elisha to succeed him as mouthpiece of the Lord to the leaders of Israel and now Elijah was about end his time one earth.
Elisha was trained well. He knew that he could not serve the Lord or his nation or his king well on his own power. He asked for a double portion of the power of God his mentor had had.
Suddenly, the Lord swept Elisha’s mentor away and he was left “only” with the Lord to empower him.
Prayer
Lord, the African American Spiritual was sung as a promise of escape from oppression. Lord, my request is that “your chariot” swing low enough to pick me up at exactly those times will we need you most this week. Lord, I need you. In Jesus’ name. Amen
Monday, January 9, 2012
More to the Story
God's Messengers
Chapter 15, 1 Kings 17-19
The Whisper
"The LORD told Elijah, "Go out and stand on the mountain in the presence of the LORD." Then a great and powerful wind tore the mountains apart and shattered the rocks--but the LORD was not in the wind.
After the wind there was an earthquake, but the LORD was not in the earthquake.
After the earthquake came a fire, but the LORD was not in the fire.
And after the fire came a gentle whisper, When Elijah heard it.....a voice said to him....." I Kings 19:11-13e
My Fast: 21 Days of Listening
BEGINNING TODAY!!!!!!! ........Choose a fast.
Many will do the "Daniel fast", 21 days of water, veggies and fruit. Others will do portions of this or for a shorter time. Still others will give up something like TV. Doing this creates a void, normally filled by comfort food, or stimulants like "wind, quakes and fire". But the Lord isn't in the void fillers. He's in the "still small voice."
Elijah heard the whisper Hearing requires space, and a "hunger" to hear.
May I pray for you that the next three weeks be a time taking you into a deeper relationship with the Lord?
Prayer
Lord, please give us, the entire church family, the gift of maintaining the discipline necessary to experience a void that only more of You can fill. Lord, I'd rather be uncomfortable than miss what you want to fill that void with, which I typically fill with the wrong things. Thank you, Lord. Amen."
God's Messengers
Chapter 15, 1 Kings 17-19
The Whisper
"The LORD told Elijah, "Go out and stand on the mountain in the presence of the LORD." Then a great and powerful wind tore the mountains apart and shattered the rocks--but the LORD was not in the wind.
After the wind there was an earthquake, but the LORD was not in the earthquake.
After the earthquake came a fire, but the LORD was not in the fire.
And after the fire came a gentle whisper, When Elijah heard it.....a voice said to him....." I Kings 19:11-13e
My Fast: 21 Days of Listening
BEGINNING TODAY!!!!!!! ........Choose a fast.
Many will do the "Daniel fast", 21 days of water, veggies and fruit. Others will do portions of this or for a shorter time. Still others will give up something like TV. Doing this creates a void, normally filled by comfort food, or stimulants like "wind, quakes and fire". But the Lord isn't in the void fillers. He's in the "still small voice."
Elijah heard the whisper Hearing requires space, and a "hunger" to hear.
May I pray for you that the next three weeks be a time taking you into a deeper relationship with the Lord?
Prayer
Lord, please give us, the entire church family, the gift of maintaining the discipline necessary to experience a void that only more of You can fill. Lord, I'd rather be uncomfortable than miss what you want to fill that void with, which I typically fill with the wrong things. Thank you, Lord. Amen."
Friday, January 6, 2012
More to the Story
A Kingdom Torn in Two
Chapter 14, 1 Kings 12-16
God's Dysfunctional Family
“There was continual warfare between Rehoboam (King of the northern kingdom, now referred to in the Bible as Israel) and Jeroboam (King of the southern kingdom, referred to in the Bible as Judah)”. 1 Kings 14:30
“You (Jeroboam, King of the northern kingdom, Israel) have done more evil than all who lived before you. You have made for yourself other gods, idols made of metal; you have provoked me to anger and thrust me behind your back”. 1 Kings 14:9
“Judah (the southern Kingdom under Reheboam) did evil in the eyes of the LORD. By the sins they committed they stirred up his jealous anger more than their fathers had done”. 1 Kings 14:22
Some Thoughts on Dysfunctional Families
I am reading football player Tim Tebow’s book, Through My Eyes. It is excellent so far and I recommend it highly even if you never heard of him and hate football. He’s got incredible genes but what moves me even more is reading how his mom and dad have raised this incredible, enviable, almost perfect family. That both motivates me and depresses me, the former because great stories motivate me, the latter because I’m not like his incredible father.
Yet when I read The Story, The Bible, it jumps off the pages to me over and over that God relentlessly enters into the mess that is human history and into the mess that so many of our lives and families often are. That gives me a hope that I cannot find by looking back at or relying on my weak efforts as a father. In fact 2011 has been for me a year when I’ve had a front row seat in the reserved, really high priced section of the arena, FOR FREE, and had the privilege of seeing God work things together for good, without (even in spite of) my help.
Prayer
Lord, thank you, thank you, thank you that the whole history of the world, that the record of your love preserved in the Bible is one of direct, loving, and costly intervention into the mess of planet earth. On your loving intervention, Grace, and promise to redeem it all, I rely. In the name of your Son, the Redeemer I pray. Amen”
A Kingdom Torn in Two
Chapter 14, 1 Kings 12-16
God's Dysfunctional Family
“There was continual warfare between Rehoboam (King of the northern kingdom, now referred to in the Bible as Israel) and Jeroboam (King of the southern kingdom, referred to in the Bible as Judah)”. 1 Kings 14:30
“You (Jeroboam, King of the northern kingdom, Israel) have done more evil than all who lived before you. You have made for yourself other gods, idols made of metal; you have provoked me to anger and thrust me behind your back”. 1 Kings 14:9
“Judah (the southern Kingdom under Reheboam) did evil in the eyes of the LORD. By the sins they committed they stirred up his jealous anger more than their fathers had done”. 1 Kings 14:22
Some Thoughts on Dysfunctional Families
I am reading football player Tim Tebow’s book, Through My Eyes. It is excellent so far and I recommend it highly even if you never heard of him and hate football. He’s got incredible genes but what moves me even more is reading how his mom and dad have raised this incredible, enviable, almost perfect family. That both motivates me and depresses me, the former because great stories motivate me, the latter because I’m not like his incredible father.
Yet when I read The Story, The Bible, it jumps off the pages to me over and over that God relentlessly enters into the mess that is human history and into the mess that so many of our lives and families often are. That gives me a hope that I cannot find by looking back at or relying on my weak efforts as a father. In fact 2011 has been for me a year when I’ve had a front row seat in the reserved, really high priced section of the arena, FOR FREE, and had the privilege of seeing God work things together for good, without (even in spite of) my help.
Prayer
Lord, thank you, thank you, thank you that the whole history of the world, that the record of your love preserved in the Bible is one of direct, loving, and costly intervention into the mess of planet earth. On your loving intervention, Grace, and promise to redeem it all, I rely. In the name of your Son, the Redeemer I pray. Amen”
Thursday, January 5, 2012
More to the Story
A Kingdom Torn in Two
Chapter 14; 1 Kings 12-16
Sometimes Things Need to Get Smaller in Order to Get Bigger
“The word of God came to Shemaiah . . . "Say to Rehoboam son of Solomon king of Judah, to the whole house of Judah and Benjamin, and to the rest of the people,
'This is what the LORD says: Do not go up to fight against your brothers, the Israelites. Go home, every one of you, for this is my doing.'" 1 Kings 12:22-24(NIV)
A History Lesson
Although the north (Israel) and the south (Judah) did end up in a 50 year war, God’s initial instruction to King Reheboam (Solomon’s son and successor) was not to invade the north. Why? Because in God’s “upper story”, in God’s orchestration of world events, it appears He was doing two things.
First, God was keeping the promise that He made over and over beginning with Abraham and continuing through Isaac, Jacob, Judah, David, Solomon, and now Rehoboam, that through this particular line of Israel’s family tree God would rescue the world (it is through this line that Jesus was born). It is as if God was saying to Reheboam, “yes, even though you’re stubborn and won’t listen, I’ve got this. I’ll still do what I said I would do.”
Second, perhaps God purges. If this is true, it is not because he loves those whom he purges less. Nor do those who remain after the purge have any ground of pride to stand on. Rehoboam and Judah were no better. God’s plan is to rescue the planet and everything and everyone on it, but he does it through relationship with and influence on those who are willing to trust and obey. And when he can’t find that person, He is faithful anyway.
Prayer
Lord, I know my sin. It is ever before me. I have not earned any favor from you. Yet you give me grace after grace after grace. I deserve to be purged, to be among the “10 lost tribes of Israel”, the northern tribes lost to history forever. Yet, your hand has not left me. It is in that that I ‘boast’. Amen”
A Kingdom Torn in Two
Chapter 14; 1 Kings 12-16
Sometimes Things Need to Get Smaller in Order to Get Bigger
“The word of God came to Shemaiah . . . "Say to Rehoboam son of Solomon king of Judah, to the whole house of Judah and Benjamin, and to the rest of the people,
'This is what the LORD says: Do not go up to fight against your brothers, the Israelites. Go home, every one of you, for this is my doing.'" 1 Kings 12:22-24(NIV)
A History Lesson
Although the north (Israel) and the south (Judah) did end up in a 50 year war, God’s initial instruction to King Reheboam (Solomon’s son and successor) was not to invade the north. Why? Because in God’s “upper story”, in God’s orchestration of world events, it appears He was doing two things.
First, God was keeping the promise that He made over and over beginning with Abraham and continuing through Isaac, Jacob, Judah, David, Solomon, and now Rehoboam, that through this particular line of Israel’s family tree God would rescue the world (it is through this line that Jesus was born). It is as if God was saying to Reheboam, “yes, even though you’re stubborn and won’t listen, I’ve got this. I’ll still do what I said I would do.”
Second, perhaps God purges. If this is true, it is not because he loves those whom he purges less. Nor do those who remain after the purge have any ground of pride to stand on. Rehoboam and Judah were no better. God’s plan is to rescue the planet and everything and everyone on it, but he does it through relationship with and influence on those who are willing to trust and obey. And when he can’t find that person, He is faithful anyway.
Prayer
Lord, I know my sin. It is ever before me. I have not earned any favor from you. Yet you give me grace after grace after grace. I deserve to be purged, to be among the “10 lost tribes of Israel”, the northern tribes lost to history forever. Yet, your hand has not left me. It is in that that I ‘boast’. Amen”
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
More to the Story
A Kingdom Torn in Two
Chapter 14, 1 Kings 12-16
Israel's Civil War
“When all the Israelites heard that Jeroboam (Solomon’s “Secretary of State”) had returned (from exile), the (people of the northern 10 tribes of Israel) sent and called him to the assembly and made him king over all Israel. Only the tribe of Judah remained loyal to the house of David. When Rehoboam (Solomon’s son and designated King of Israel) arrived in Jerusalem, he mustered the whole house of Judah and the tribe of Benjamin--a hundred and eighty thousand fighting men--to make war against the house of Israel and to regain the kingdom for Rehoboam son of Solomon. 1 Kings 12:20-21(NIV)
History
After Solomon’s death Jeroboam took the northern 10 tribes and seceded from the southern two, Judah and Benjamin. If God had not interceded the south would have invaded the north, sort of the opposite of what happened in our civil war.
From this point on the northern 10 tribes are referred to in the Bible as Israel and the southern two as Judah. Of all 38 Kings of both countries, none in the north were good kings. Each followed the rebellious and idolatrous ways of Jeroboam and each was described as having “done evil in the eyes of the Lord”. In fact every transition from one king to the next in the north was by coup.
There were only five Kings in Judah listed by the biblical authors as good: Asa, Jotham, Jehosophat, Josiah and Hezekiah.
Prayer
“Lord, from Adam to Eve to Cain to Noah to Abraham to Isaac to Jacob to Judah to Moses to Saul to David to Solomon to Rehoboam to Jeroboam, it seems there are almost no great role models. There are no perfect saints, no one who did life just right. What are you telling me? Is it that David is the one above all who got it right, that a broken and contrite heart you will not refuse? Thank you Lord that not even Jesus came as role model (although He is) but as a Savior of those who come to recognize that they cannot measure up, but instead need to be saved. Amen”
A Kingdom Torn in Two
Chapter 14, 1 Kings 12-16
Israel's Civil War
“When all the Israelites heard that Jeroboam (Solomon’s “Secretary of State”) had returned (from exile), the (people of the northern 10 tribes of Israel) sent and called him to the assembly and made him king over all Israel. Only the tribe of Judah remained loyal to the house of David. When Rehoboam (Solomon’s son and designated King of Israel) arrived in Jerusalem, he mustered the whole house of Judah and the tribe of Benjamin--a hundred and eighty thousand fighting men--to make war against the house of Israel and to regain the kingdom for Rehoboam son of Solomon. 1 Kings 12:20-21(NIV)
History
After Solomon’s death Jeroboam took the northern 10 tribes and seceded from the southern two, Judah and Benjamin. If God had not interceded the south would have invaded the north, sort of the opposite of what happened in our civil war.
From this point on the northern 10 tribes are referred to in the Bible as Israel and the southern two as Judah. Of all 38 Kings of both countries, none in the north were good kings. Each followed the rebellious and idolatrous ways of Jeroboam and each was described as having “done evil in the eyes of the Lord”. In fact every transition from one king to the next in the north was by coup.
There were only five Kings in Judah listed by the biblical authors as good: Asa, Jotham, Jehosophat, Josiah and Hezekiah.
Prayer
“Lord, from Adam to Eve to Cain to Noah to Abraham to Isaac to Jacob to Judah to Moses to Saul to David to Solomon to Rehoboam to Jeroboam, it seems there are almost no great role models. There are no perfect saints, no one who did life just right. What are you telling me? Is it that David is the one above all who got it right, that a broken and contrite heart you will not refuse? Thank you Lord that not even Jesus came as role model (although He is) but as a Savior of those who come to recognize that they cannot measure up, but instead need to be saved. Amen”
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
More to the Story
A Kingdom Torn in Two
Chapter 14, 1 Kings 12-16
How You Live Has Consequences
“The elders advised Solomon’s son, Rehoboam, ‘If today you will be a servant to these people and serve them, they will always be your servants.' But Rehoboam rejected the advice the elders gave him and consulted the young men who had grown up with him.They replied, 'Tell these people . . ‘My father laid on you a heavy yoke; I will make it even heavier. My father scourged you with whips; I will scourge you with scorpions.'" 1 Kings 12:7-11
Reflection
Rehoboam’s father, King Solomon, ruled Israel until 970 BC. He had used his administrative genius, international connections and conscripted labor to build Israel into one of the wealthiest nations in the known world. He did it by his own hand, in the process compromising himself right out of God’s will.
Result? His son did the same. David had left his son Solomon the legacy of a heart for and dependence on God. Solomon left his son Rehoboam the legacy of “if it’s going to be it’s up to me.” He trusted the tough guy advice of his childhood buddies, not the wisdom of the elders who understood that serving begets serving.
Prayer
Lord, give me the humility to listen to those who have more life experience with You and with others. I don’t know it all. I need you and I need others. Lord please do whatever it takes to humble me before You and others and in doing so I will ask You, not others to lift me up. Amen”
A Kingdom Torn in Two
Chapter 14, 1 Kings 12-16
How You Live Has Consequences
“The elders advised Solomon’s son, Rehoboam, ‘If today you will be a servant to these people and serve them, they will always be your servants.' But Rehoboam rejected the advice the elders gave him and consulted the young men who had grown up with him.They replied, 'Tell these people . . ‘My father laid on you a heavy yoke; I will make it even heavier. My father scourged you with whips; I will scourge you with scorpions.'" 1 Kings 12:7-11
Reflection
Rehoboam’s father, King Solomon, ruled Israel until 970 BC. He had used his administrative genius, international connections and conscripted labor to build Israel into one of the wealthiest nations in the known world. He did it by his own hand, in the process compromising himself right out of God’s will.
Result? His son did the same. David had left his son Solomon the legacy of a heart for and dependence on God. Solomon left his son Rehoboam the legacy of “if it’s going to be it’s up to me.” He trusted the tough guy advice of his childhood buddies, not the wisdom of the elders who understood that serving begets serving.
Prayer
Lord, give me the humility to listen to those who have more life experience with You and with others. I don’t know it all. I need you and I need others. Lord please do whatever it takes to humble me before You and others and in doing so I will ask You, not others to lift me up. Amen”
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