Stepping In The Spirit

     I pray these Words of God will hit our hearts directly, in a way we will not forget. As we give careful thought to our ways, remember God has you in the palm of His hand. It is just a matter of us turning and continuing to return to Him time and time again. Life is precious and good. But life hurts. We suffer. We grieve. We worry. We fight. We make mistakes. We ache for our loved ones. We say the wrong thing. We think the wrong thing. We recognize our human frailty. And there He is…waiting to hold us.

     Read these words slowly and take them into your heart. Accept His unconditional love for you. Give Him the anxieties that weigh you down. He is right there, ready and waiting. Incline your ear and listen:

Does He not see my ways and count my every step? Job 31:4

And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Matthew 10:30

You have searched me, Lord and You know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; You perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; You are familiar with all my ways. Before a word is on my tongue You, Lord, know it completely. You hem me in behind and before, and You lay your hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain. Where can I go from Your Spirit? Where can I flee from Your presence? If I go up to the heavens, You are there. If I make my bed in the depths, You are there. If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there Your hand will guide me, Your right hand will hold me fast. If I say, “Surely the darkness will hide me and the light become night around me,” even the darkness will not be dark to You; the night will shine like the day, for darkness is as light to you.  Psalm 139:1-12

     His mighty right hand is holding you fast. That strong and mighty hand will guide you. The darkness is as the day to Him. Allow His face to shine upon you and bless you right now. He is there.

Dear Father,

Your presence surrounds us and envelops us. Make Your presence known to us. We surrender to Your love. Let us easily step into the life of Your Spirit, allowing Him to take our hand and lead us out to the life You have given to us.

In Jesus name. Amen

Stepping In The Spirit

     Attempting to walk and stay in step with the Spirit leads us to consider our thoughts and our actions. Knowing the Word of God and the ways of God and the works of God and the wonders of God causes our thoughts to turn to Him first. Can we ask Him to guide our thoughts each day? And at the end of the day can we consider how our day matched up to all we know of God? Carefully consider this verse:

Give careful thought to the paths for your feet and be steadfast in all your ways. Proverbs 4:26

     Haggai was a prophet of God sent to give a message to his people on rebuilding the temple. His words ring true for us even though they were written in 520 B.C. He was sent to the people to re-focus their attention to the things of God. The book of Haggai has only two chapters and he uses the phrase, “give careful thought…” four times.

Now this is what the Lord Almighty says, “Give careful thought to your ways.” Haggai 1:5

     Who tells us to give careful thought to our ways? The Lord Almighty speaks. The definition of “almighty” means all-powerful, omnipotent, in control. Can we put aside our own desires to work on His? Can we ask ourselves if our lives and our thoughts and our actions are pleasing to the Almighty One? Let’s give careful thought to the Almighty today.

Dear Father in heaven,

You are The Lord Almighty, maker of heaven and earth. We want to walk with You in all of Your ways. Guide our footsteps today and guide our thoughts to align with Your good and perfect will.

In Jesus name,

Amen

Stepping In The Spirit

     The Bible describes in great detail the temples built in Jerusalem. The last temple was destroyed in 70 A.D. and the Jewish people were scattered to the ends of the earth. As we talked about last week another temple will be built in Jerusalem and preparations are being made right now as millions of Israel's people have returned to the land. www.templeinstitute.org

     Believers in Christ house the Holy Spirit. God dwells within and among us. I find that incredible and it is one of the reasons that Jesus told His followers:

Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father.  John 14:12

     Greater than these? Jesus was the living God and everywhere He went flowed His grace, love and healing power. As believers that same Holy Spirit lives within us! The Holy Spirit of the living God will bring hope to others, will show mercy where none is deserved, will bring compassion to a hurting world. That is what He brought to us.

     You are the temple of God!

Don’t you know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in your midst?  1 Corinthians 3:16

     Can we learn to surrender our lives to His leading? I know it is a process that will never be finished, but His patience with us never wears thin. Let’s take a step at a time allowing the Holy Spirit within us to lead.

Dear Jesus,

Show us how to live our lives as Your children. May we be led to love others. Give us patience when we want to shout, compassions when we are tired and hope where there seems to be none. Teach us.

Amen

What Is To Come

Behold, the former things have come to pass. And new things I declare; Before they spring forth I tell you of them. Isaiah 47:9

     As the days of the end draw ever closer, remember since Jesus ascended into heaven almost 2,000 years ago, believers have been preparing and watching for His coming. Each day brings us closer to that truth and as we have seen and heard over these last few days, the signs of the end are increasing and converging in ways we can’t deny.

     As we watch and wait and pray, I believe the Scriptural evidence points to the fact that the church will be raptured (caught up) into the presence of God before the great and final days of tribulation.

After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever. 1 Thessalonians 4:17

     We will begin celebrating the marriage supper of the Lamb. Did you know Jesus, the Lamb of God, is called the bridegroom and the church, the bride?

Let us rejoice and be glad and give Him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come and His bride has made herself ready. Fine linen, bright and clean, was given her to wear. (Fine linen stands for the righteous acts of God’s holy people) Then the angel said to me, “Write this: blessed are those who are invited to the wedding supper of the Lamb!" And he added, “These are the true Words of God.”  Revelation 19:7-9

     The final days of the earth as we know it will play out. Because of the devastation on the earth the world will be searching for a savior and a man will rise up, in the power of Satan. He is called the antichrist, (1 John 2) the son of perdition, and the lawless one (2 Thessalonians 2) He is the counterfeit Christ.

     He will appear deceptively brilliant and well-spoken. He will bring words of peace to a broken world. (see Daniel and Revelation) There is good news during this time of tribulation where the world bows to this evil and takes his mark. 144,000 Israelites will be sealed by God and witness to His truth and many will come to know Christ. Most will be martyred for their faith. (Revelation 13)

     The final war of the world will bring the final return of Christ, not as the lamb this time but as the Lord of Lords and the King of Kings and His kingdom, the new heaven and the new earth, will last forever.

     Jesus says,

“There will be signs in the sun, moon and stars. On the earth, nations will be in anguish and perplexity at the roaring and tossing of the sea. People will faint from terror, apprehensive of what is coming on the world, for the heavenly bodies will be shaken. At that time they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” Luke 21:25-28

     Let this small synopsis of Biblical prophecy whet your appetite for more. God knows the end from the beginning and He tells us to watch the signs and be aware of the times. Our redemption draws near. Jesus loves us. He has and will overcome the evil one and His kingdom will live forever.

No longer will there be any curse. The throne of God and of the Lamb will be in the city, and His servants will serve Him. They will see His face and His name will be on their foreheads. There will be no more night. They will not need the light of a lamp or the light of the sun, for the Lord God will give them light. And they will reign forever and ever.  Revelation 33:3-5

Dear Jesus,

Heaven will be our destination forever. Every knee will bow to You. Show us how to be Your ambassadors as we await Your final coming. Protect Your believers around the world as they speak of You boldly.

Amen

What Is To Come

     Let’s take a deep breath and continue on. Thanks for sticking with this. Bible prophecy is not easy to talk about or to write about. It seems more convenient to avoid it all together which is just what Satan wants. Many people, including most churches, shy away from the Book of Revelation, believing it is impossible to understand.

     Did you know the Book of Revelation is the only book in the entire Bible that comes with a blessing attached to it? God wants us to read it and understand it. I recommend taking a Bible study on it. I can recommend two of them by Beth Moore or Dr. David Jeremiah.

Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near.  Revelation 1:3

     Wars will continue to be a sign of the last days on earth. Damascus will be destroyed (Isaiah 17) The nations surrounding Israel will be united against her. (Psalm 83) Nations will come against Israel including Russia, Iran and Turkey. (Ezekiel 38 and 39) The daily news today could easily allow us to watch all of the above unfold.

     Zechariah 14 tells of some of the devastation from these wars. Results of the war mentioned in this chapter sound similar to those of nuclear weapons including eyes melting in their sockets and tongues melting away. Israel will not fall because of God’s mighty hand and they will await their Messiah, Jesus, and His second coming.

     There will be another (the 3^rd) Jewish temple built in Jerusalem. This temple is mentioned in Daniel 9, 12, Mark 13, 2 Thessalonians 2, Revelation 11. The Temple Institute is currently preparing everything according to Biblical specifications. The Sanhedrin and the Levitical priests are being reinstated and they are preparing the temple utensils, the dye for the priestly garments and the anointing oil.

     The Bible tells us the Eastern Gate (which still stands) would remain closed until the Messiah returns. It remains sealed and present to this date.

     A red heifer without blemish must be born and used to purify the temple in Israel. The Temple Institute is actively seeking to acquire a kosher red heifer. Numbers 19 (www.templeinstitute.org)

     The Kings of the East will have a 200 million man army for the last war. Revelation 9, 16. When John penned these words this number would have been the entire population of the world. Now China boasts of a more-than 200 million man army.

     This convergence of last-days Biblical prophecy is happening all around us. Knowing God’s Word and keeping it in our hearts allows us to be purposeful and loving and looking up, while we enjoy and appreciate every single breath of life on earth. Jesus gives us the true joy and peace right now that we will experience in eternity.

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy spirit.  Romans 15:13

Dear Father,

We thank you for Your precious Word. As we watch the signs of the times, we wait with expectation and joy. May we overflow with hope. Give us the peace that passes understanding knowing You are in full control. You are holy and just and pure and compassionate. Show us how to be Your witnesses.

In Jesus name

Amen

What IS

     So much around us is escalating and increasing; knowledge, weather patterns including the number of earthquakes. Technology is moving beyond what most of us (at least me!) can handle. Much of what we see happening around us today was spoken of in the Bible as signs ot the end of the age. Here are some of them:

     Multitudes would travel to and fro. Daniel 12:41 (Written 500 years before Christ was born) Few people traveled beyond their own communities before the 20^th century, other than on horseback. Today we travel by car, bus, plane and trains.

     Knowledge will increase Daniel 12:41  With the advent of the internet there is an explosion of available knowledge

     During the last seven-year tribulation, there will be a one-world government, a one-world religion and a mark on the hand or forehead given in order to buy and sell goods. The whole world will be able to witness an event. Revelation 13 With the computer chip, and satellite technology all of this, impossible to imagine just a few short years ago, is now possible and even probable.

     The last days will be filled with self-centeredness, being lovers of self and of pleasure, filled with drug abuse. (2 Timothy 3, 4, Revelation 9, Isaiah 47 and Micah 5) The word sorceries in the book of Revelation  is pharmakeia, translated to mean both increase in the occult and witchcraft and in illegal drug use.

     Many Christians would be deceived by doctrines and demons 2 Timothy 4 through false doctrines and visions and dreams that can be close to truth, having a form of godliness but denying the complete truth. Many churches have fallen away from the Biblical truth, following a worldview.

    Jesus tells us not to fear when trouble comes. His plan is good and there is time for the Holy Spirit to continue His work on the earth. God tarries because He does not want to lose anyone.

“I have told you these things so that in Me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33

But do not forget this one thing, dear friends. With the Lord a day is like a thousand years and a thousand years are like a day.The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise, as some understand slowness. Instead He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish but everyone to come to repentance. 2 Peter: 3:8-9

  On God’s timetable we are just beginning the third day since Jesus’ birth! And the third day brings resurrection! God’s timing will be perfect and we will be with Him forever.

Dear Jesus,

Remove from us any fear as we await Your coming. You foretold all of these things to keep us actively loving and serving You. The Gospel is being preached to the ends of the earth just as you told us it would. We live in exciting times for Your Spirit to work. As darkness increases, Your light will shine brighter and brighter.

Amen

What Is

     I pray all of these Biblical facts are helping to lay a stronger foundation both in our knowledge and in being able to witness to others in a variety of ways. My heart lies in telling of the love, hope, peace and joy of Jesus, but I have also developed an interest in Bible prophecy. We are not to know the day or the hour, but we are to watch the signs and be aware of the times.

     So far we have looked at some of the scientific, archaeological and historical evidence found in the Bible. Yesterday we looked at some of the ancient prophecies fulfilled in the days of Jesus. Today and tomorrow we will talk about what prophecies have been fulfilled in the not-so-distant past. In just the last seventy years some important prophecies have come to pass, and miraculously so. Today we will look at Israel and her re-gathering.

     Jerusalem was destroyed in 70 A.D. and the Jewish people were scattered around the world. God promised His chosen people that one day they would be re-gathered to their homeland and their nation would be born in a day. Isaiah 66:8. And so it came to pass that Israel was once again declared a nation on May 14, 1948.

     The Jews would once again return to Israel. Isaiah 11 and Ezekiel 37. Over 5 million Jews have returned to their homeland. And they have come from the North, East, South and West. Isaiah 43:5-6 and Jeremiah 31:7-10.  They have come from Russia in the North, from Ethiopia in the South, and from Europe, Asia and the Americas!

     When the Jewish people returned the land, it had become a desolate desert, but prophecies foretold a time, in the last days, when Israel would blossom. Isaiah 27:6, Isaiah 35:1-2, Ezekiel 36:34-36. Today Israel has developed a world-renowned irrigation system, and they export over 1200 million dollars  of fresh produce including over 100 million in flowers and plants.

    It was prophesied that Israel would once again plant vineyards. Joel 3:18 and Amos 9:13-15. Today wine flows from the Golan Heights, along with many other vineyards in the mountain areas.

     It was prophecied the Israel would plant forests of trees and even listed the kind; cedar, acacia, myrtle, oil, cypress, pine and box. Isaiah 41:18-20. Since 1900 more than 1 billion trees have been planted after Israel lay barren for nearly two thousand years!

     A pure language would be restored. Zephaniah 3:9. Hebrew is now spoken in Israel. In 1948 Hebrew became an official tongue of the state of Israel. A point of interest: Hebrew has no swear words.

     Jerusalem was prophesied to be trampled by the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles were fulfilled. Luke 21:24 Jerusalem was won back to the state of Israel after the miraculous 1967 Six-Day war.

     These promises of God to this ancient people are being fulfilled in our lifetimes! Israel will be the center of all that is to come. Keep an eye on her and pray for her.

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem. May those who love you be secure. Psalm 122:6

I will bless those who bless you and whoever curses you I will curse, and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.   Genesis 12:3

Dear Father in heaven,

We thank You for reminding us that all things will come to pass through Your written Word. To think that Israel is back in the land after two millennia and all of these prophecies and more are happening right before our eyes. Keep us mindful of Your eternal view and keep us watching for You.

In Jesus name

Amen

What Was

     The Word of God is authentic, trustworthy and filled with the promises of God. He knows the end from the beginning. He spoke through the prophets of what was to come. Let’s look at just a few of the hundreds of prophecies fulfilled with Jesus’ birth, death and resurrection, foretold so long ago.

1. Messiah would be born of a woman. Genesis 3;15 Fulfilled: Matthew 1:20 and Galatians 4:4

2. Messiah would be born in Bethlehem. Micah 5:2 Fulfilled: Matthew 2:1 and Luke 2:4-6

3. Messiah would be born of a virgin. Isaiah 7:14 Fulfilled: Matthew 1:22-23 and Luke 1:26-31

4. Messiah would be a descendant of Isaac and Jacob: Genesis `7:19 and Numbers 24:17 Fulfilled: Luke 3:34 and Matthew 1:2

5. Messiah would come from the tribe of Judah. Genesis 49:10 Fulfilled: Luke 3:33 and Hebrews 7:14

     6. Messiah would be heir to Kind David’s throne. 2 Samuel 7:12-13 and Isaiah 9:7 Fulfilled: Luke 1:32-33 and Romans 1:3

7   7. A messenger would prepare the way for the Messiah Isaiah 40:3-5 Fulfilled: Luke 3:3-6

     8. Messiah would be rejected by His own people Psalm 69:8 and Isaiah 53:3 Fulfilled: John 1:11 and John 7:5

     9. Messiah would be called a Nazarene. Isaiah 11:1 Fulfilled: Matthew 2:23

    10. Messiah would be silent before His accusers. Isaiah 53:7 Fulfilled: Mark 15:4-5

     11. Messiah would be spat upon and struck. Isaiah 50:6 Fulfilled: Matthew 26:67

     12. Messiah would be crucified with criminals.  Isaiah 53:12 Fulfilled: Matthew 27:38 and Mark 15:27-28

     13. Messiah’s bones would not be broken. Exodus 12:46 and Psalm 34:20 Fulfilled: John 19:33-36

     14. Soldiers would gamble for Messiah’s garments. Psalm 22:18 Fulfilled: Luke 23;34

     15. Messiah would be forsaken by God. Psalm 22:1 Fulfilled: Matthew 27:46

     16. Soldiers would pierce His side. Zechariah 12:10 Fulfilled: John 19:34

     17. Messiah would resurrect from the dead. Psalm 16:16 and Psalm 49:15 Fulfilled: Matthew 26:2-7 and Acts 2:22=32

     18. Messiah would ascend to heaven. Psalm 24:7-10 Fulfilled: Mark 16:19 and Luke 24:51

     19. Messiah would be seated at God’s right hand. Psalm 68:18 and Psalm 110:1 Fulfilled: Mark 16:19 and Matthew 22:44

     20. Messiah would be a sacrifice for sin. Isaiah 53:5-12 Fulfilled: Romans 5:6-8

     There are hundreds more! Different authors, varied times, written through the Holy Spirit, fulfilled in God’s timing. When sin first entered the world, God’s redemptive plan was in place. Every redeeming Word points to Jesus.

I make known the end from the beginning, from ancient times what is still to come. I say, “My purpose will stand and I will do all that I please.” Isaiah 46:10

Dear Lord,

I pray everyone will witness Your truth. With man all of this is impossible but with God all things are possible. Jesus fulfilled it all when He said, “It is finished!” on the cross. All we need to do is believe in His birth, death and resurrection and we, too, will live.

Amen

What Was, What Is, What Is To Come/Archaeology

     There has been nothing discovered in science or archaeology that disproves anything in the Bible. Isn’t that amazing? The Biblical narrative, the cultures listed, the dates written, the rulers of each age, the descriptions of the tombs, the stamps of the Kings, the type of crucifixion have been proven to be as written. Here are a few of the more note-worthy archaeological finds.

THE DEAD SEA SCROLLS: Found in 1947. You may have heard of or seen them yourselves as they travel around the world. These ancient writings were discovered in a cave by a shepherd. This series of documents predates 100 A.D. and the writings contain portions of the Hebrew Old Testament including the entire book of Isaiah. The incredible authenticity of the Bible was verified and confirmed, with several fine-tooth combs, and through meticulous study by the most learned Biblical scholars and rabbis. The few punctuation and grammatical errors did nothing to affect the text or meaning.

TEL DAN INSCRIPTION: This inscription makes reference to a military  victory and corresponds to the biblical account in 2 Chronicles 22. This dates to 9^th century B.C. and is the first reference to the Davidic dynasty outside of the Bible.

CAIAPHUS OSSUAARY: An ossuary is a stone or pottery box containing the remains of a deceased person. This particular ossuary bears the name Joseph, dating to the second temple period. Joseph is the son of Caiaphas. Caiaphas was the priest that presided over the false trial of Jesus (Matthew 26:57-67)

KETEF HINNOM AMULETS: Found in 1979 these two silver scrolls were worn as amulets around the neck. These were found in a tomb in the city of Ketef Hinnom and were placed there around 7^th century B.C. The process of unrolling the scrolls without them disintegrating took over three years.  The archaeologists found the oldest surviving texts from the Hebrew Bible to date. One was a blessing from the book of Numbers 6:24-26. The other contained the name of the Lord YHWH our English Jehovah.  These predate the Dead Sea Scrolls by 500 years and are the oldest known example of the Lord’s name in writing.

     Just as archaeologists and scientists continue to dig for evidence, let’s continue to dig into the Word of our God, discovering His truth for our lives. The blessing from the ancient texts from Numbers 6 is a familiar one. Bask in this blessing today as you remember on this Good Friday, the sacrificial love of Jesus. He died for you and me.

The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make His face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn His face toward you and give you peace.  Numbers 6;24-26

Dear Lord,

As Your creation continues to try to disprove Your Words of life, we know them to be true. We thank You for Your Son today and everyday, for His willingness to take our sin upon Himself on the cross. We look to the resurrection to give us eternal hope.

In Jesus name

Amen

What Was, What Is, What Is To Come/Science

   Science may be catching up to just a bit of the scientific evidence found in the Bible. You will be astounded at just the handful of facts I have room to give you today. Witness the truth of the Bible written hundreds and thousands of years before man recognized that:

The earth is held in place by invisible forces: Job 26:7 (discovered 19^th century)

The earth is round: Isaiah 40:22 (discovered 15^th century)

Blood is the source of life and health: Leviticus 17:11 (discovered 19^th century)

Oceans have natural paths and the ocean floor contains valleys and mountains: Psalms 8:8 2 Samuel 22:16 Jonah 2:6 (discovered 1854)

Oceans contain fresh water springs: Job 38:16 (discovered 1920)

Infinite number of stars: Genesis 15:5 Jeremiah 33:22 (discovered 1940) For hundreds of years man believed there were 1,100!

Plants need sunlight to manufacture food: Job 8:16 (discovered 1920)

     Does this short list surprise you? Let the Bible amaze you more and more. Most of us would love to believe science has gone beyond the Bible. In reality we will continue to play catch up until God creates His new heaven and new earth. God’s creation. God’s book. Let’s read it and allow him to teach us all things.

“This is what the Lord says-your Redeemer who formed you in the womb. I am the Lord, the Maker of all things, who stretches out the heavens, who spreads out the earth by myself.” Isaiah 44:24

Through Him all things were made; without Him nothing was made that has been made.  John 1:3

For from Him and through Him and for Him are all things.  To Him be the glory forever. Amen1 Romans 11:36

Dear Lord,

We thank you for Your Word. No man can understand all of the riches of God. Help us to see. Teach us. We are in awe.

In Jesus name

Amen

What Was, What Is, What Is To Come

In the beginning was the Word, and te Word was with God and the Word was God. John 1;1

    The pre-conceived notions about the Bible are as numerous as the stars in the sky. I have been privileged to witness the power of the Word of God in my own life and in the lives of so many others. The more I read it, the more miraculous it becomes.  

     The Word has lifted many a desperate heart from the depths of grief, given the answer to a long-awaited question, turned a heart of stone into a heart of love. Impossible? Not with the Word of God. Over the next two weeks, we will seek the things that were, that are, and are yet to come.

     For those of you with an analytical mind, you want proof. The Bible has proved to be scientifically, archaeologically and historically true. It may also help to see a list of some of the prophecies written hundreds and even thousands of years before Jesus was born that were fulfilled in his life, death and resurrection, We will look into all of this and more.

     Let’s read a few Scriptures to whet our appetite for the discussions to come. I pray you will come away with a new and profound deepening of faith in our Savior, Jesus.

The grass withers and the flowers fail, but the Word of our God endures forever.  Isaiah 40:8

For the Word of God is alive and active, sharper than any double-edged sword; it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.  Hebrews 4;12

All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness. 2 Timothy 3:16

The law of the Lord is perfect, refreshing the soul. The statutes of the Lord are trustworthy, making wise the simple. The precepts of the Lord are right, giving joy to the heart. The commands of the Lord are radiant, giving light to the eyes.  Psalm 19:7-8

     We could read verse after verse about the Word of God, but these should get us started! The Word is perfect and trustworthy. It makes us wise and gives us a radiant glow. It cuts deep and penetrates into our hearts. The Word of God changes our attitudes and our thinking.

     The Word is God-breathed. It is HIS Word. His promises are true. His Word will last forever! We will finally understand it all, every jot and tittle of it one day in heaven. I am looking forward to meeting Peter and Paul, Moses and Jonah and hearing their tales first-hand. Forever…

Dear Lord,

We thank You for the Word. How blessed we are to live in these times where each and every one of us can hold a copy in our very own hands and read the unfolding story of Jesus Christ. Everything points to Him. Thank you for Your perfect Word. Pour into us Your truth.

Amen

Blood Moons

    Four consequtive full lunar eclipses are called a tetrad. The four blood moons in 2014 and 2015 concur with Jewish Feast days, which has occurred only seven times since the days of Jesus. April 15, 2014 and April 4, 2015 mark the first day of Passover, the day the Jews celebrate and remember God’s protection over them from the angel of death while in Egypt. God instructed them to put a lamb’s blood over their door posts.

     October 8, 2014 and September 28, 2015, the dates of the remaining two blood moons land on the first day of the Feast of Tabernacles or Sukkot, a day of celebration, of new beginnings after the somber marking of Yom Kippur.  There will also be a total solar eclipse in between the four blood moons on March 20, 2015.

     Miraculously, these past blood moons have coincided with great struggles and new beginnings for Israel. 1948 fulfilled one of the major Biblical prophicies of significance, the re-birth of Israel as a state. The four blood moons occurred during this time of war; war for Independence and a beginning for God’s chosen people.

     1967, another time of four blood moons marked the six-day war which led to Israel receiving Jerusalem back into their territory. The solar eclipse in Jewish tradition brings a time of judgement for the nations. Let’s watch and see what God will do over these next two years. There is nothing to fear.

Indeed, He who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. The Lord watches over you-the Lord is your shade at your right hand. The sun will not harm you by day nor the moon by night. The Lord will keep you from all harm-He will watch over your life. The Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.  Psalm 121:4-8

     Jesus told us to watch the signs. (Luke 21) Each generation of believers from the time of the apostles has watched for His coming. And we will, too.

Jesus,

You told us no one knows the date or the hour, but we are to watch for the signs. Please keep us aware of Your protective presence as we wait expectedly. Your timing is perfect. We watch the heavens and the earth for You.

Amen

Blood Moons

The sun will be turned to darkness and the moon to blood before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord. Joel 2:31

    We are going to take a walk through prophecy over the next couple of weeks; a departure into the amazing Word of God, past, present and future. Tonight you may just be able to see what astronomers call a blood moon. They are not uncommon. When the earth moves directly between the sun and the moon and the light of the sun shines through the atmosphere of the earth, the moon appears in a reddish hue.

     Joel spoke of a time when the moon would turn to blood and Jesus answered His disciples of some of the signs of the end of the age. Jesus listed many of them, including this from Luke 21:

“There will be signs in the sun, moon and stars. On the earth nations will be in anguish and perplexity at the roaring and tossing of the sea.”  Luke 21:25

     There will be a total of four blood moons in 2014 and 2015. Tomorrow we will look at the significance of these particular red moons and their dates. God is in control of His creation. If you are awake between midnight and four a.m. take a peek at one of His marvelous signs and wonders.

Dear Father in heaven,

You tell us to be aware of the signs of the times. We thank you for using us on the earth. As the day of Your coming gets a little bit closer each day, remind us to look up for our redemption is drawing near.

In Jesus name

Amen

The Light of Heaven

     Yesterday we learned that humans cannot experience the full glory of God and live. Even with God’s back turned to him, even hiding in the crevice of a rock and even with God’s hand over that crevice, Moses’ whole countenance changed.

     Reflecting the light of Christ is just a small part of the unimaginable glory of heaven! Keep that in mind always as we stumble, fall and pick ourselves back up again and again throughout our lives. There is a future filled with forever light!

For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part, then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.  1 Corinthians 13:12

There will be no more night. They will not need the light of a lamp or the light of the sun, for the Lord God will give them light and they will reign forever and ever.  Revelation 22:5

Dear Father,

We thank you for the light of Christ. He is the light of the world, the light of our hearts and the light of heaven. Show us how to shine with His light throughout our earthly lives. One day we will witness Your full glory.

In Jesus name

Amen

His Glorious Light

     The closest any human has come to seeing the glory of God is Moses. When God called him to lead his people into the promised land, he did not believe it. He was not ready. He was not qualified. He wanted God to pick someone else. All of us can relate! Moses asked God to see His glory. You can read the whole episode in Exodus 33 and 34.

     God told Moses that His presence would pass by, but no man could see His face and live. God hides Moses in a crevice in the rock and God passes by with His back to him.  Moses’ encounter with God leaves him radiant. In fact, he has to wear a veil! Because of his close encounter with God, his countenance is so bright the Israelites are unable to look upon him.

     Saul’s encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus leaves him blinded and with a new name. He is changed forever. Read all about it in Acts 9. Isaiah is allowed a peek into the throne room of heaven. He immediately says that he is undone and that he is a man of unclean lips. (Isaiah 6) Encounters with the living God bring us to our knees in humility and awe, in fear of His holiness (not afraid, but a reverential fear) and we are undone. The power and the glory of God change us. We will never be the same.

     As we get ready for Holy Week, remember that the veil to the temple was ripped from bottom to top when Jesus was dying on the cross. The veil that separated the ordinary folks like us from the Holy of Holies has been removed and we have full access to the throne room. The high priests were the only ones able to enter the inner room of the temple where the presence of God resided. Listen to what Jesus has done for us!

For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are-yet He did not sin. Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. Hebrews 4:15-16

     I pray for each of us to be completely changed by the living God! His love is deeper. His light is brighter. His glory is beyond anything our earthly eyes can see. Someday we will see it. We’ll talk about that tomorrow. In the meantime, go boldly to the throne room time after time and be changed by the radiance of Christ.

And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into His image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.  2 Corinthians 3:18

Dear Jesus,

Let these Words rock our world! You transform us. You change us. You mold us more and more into Your image. We come before the throne room boldly in need of Your mercy and grace.

Amen

We Are Light

     You know the song. You may have sung it in Sunday school. This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine, let it shine let it shine! Picture a very dark cave. You can’t see your hand in front of your face. You struggle, groping in the dark, trying to find a way out. And then you spot it; a candle ahead, brightly lit, on the floor of the cave.

     This tiny, intimate light changes everything. This small light will guide you out of a dark place. It lights the space around you, bringing awareness to the truth of your surroundings. It brings warmth and hope. We can bring the same into the darkness around us. Our little lights can bring hope and guidance. The light in us is Jesus.

     We can’t shine for others until we are emptied of the darkness within. We can’t shine for others until we are filled with the light ourselves.  Jesus exposes darkenss, all of it, and heals it with His love and light. Allowing Him into our secret places isn’t always easy. We are comfortable there. Can we trust Him? Can we trust Him with the hurt stuffed down deep within, all of the past grief? Can we bring it out into the light and allow the God of love to remove the darkness? He is the great healer. He will do it!

     And nothing can snuff it out again. Even if the enemy of our souls tries, Jesus is more powerful. The light dispels the darkness. The darkness has lost its power.

The light of the righteous shines brightly but the lamp of the wicked is snuffed out.  Proverbs 13:9

The light shines in the darkness and the darkness has not overcome it.  John 1:5

     God can handle our messes. He turns them into messages. Fill up on His light. He asks us to shine! Jesus says to you and to me:

“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.  Matthew 5:14-16

Let it shine! Let it shine! Let it shine!

Dear Jesus,

Thank you for Your Words to us today. With You in our hearts, our minds, and our spirit, we can bring Your light to a darkened world. Remind us of that truth. Where You are, there is light. You have come into the world as light and Your glory will shine within us and through us until we witness Your full glory.

Amen

The Word is Light

     Jesus is the light of the world and the lamp of heaven. It is no wonder we read that the Bible is a lamp and a light. Jesus is the Word of God come to life in the flesh (see John 1)

Your Word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path. Psalm 119:105

The unfolding of Your Words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple. Psalm 119:130

     The Word of God gives life and hope. It brings Words of healing and conviction. When we read it. It reads us! The Word might give us just enough light to take one small step during a difficult season. Other times, it shines like the noon-day sun, giving immediate joy and warmth to our whole being.

     I love the second verse above. The unfolding of the Bible opens up new understanding. God wants every part of us, spirit, soul and body under His direction. He can handle every part of our past. As He unfolds His wisdom, little by little, everything can be brought into His glorious light. If there are simmering coals of hurt, anger, unforgivenss or past shame still being covered by activity, addiction or despair, give it all to the light of the world.

     Do not fear. He is a mighty God. Our pasts will be used in a future filled with the light of Jesus and the lamp set before our feet. Light exposes darkness. The unfolding of our lives under the power of God’s Word leads us onto a stable and firm and open path filled with light.

Dear Father,

Your Word fills us with joy, with hope, with new beginnings. Continue to open our understanding as You light the path before us and remove the darkness behind us. We take one more step into a future with You today. Take our hand and walk with us into a brighter future.

In Jesus name

Amen

God is Light

     God is love. God is light. As believers we are children of the light. We no longer live in darkness.

This is the message we have heard from Him and declare to you. God is light. In Him there is no darkness at all.  1 John 1:5

You are all children of the light and children of the day. We do not belong to the night or to the darkness.  1 Thessalonians 5:5

     How blessed we are as children ot God! We have been drawn to the light of Christ. We have been drawn to hear His Gospel. Our souls have been renewed. The Holy Spirit within us continues to draw us to the pure light and love of Jesus. I pray you hear these words and take them in. As believers God continues to work in us. We are continually being sanctified, made more and more into the image of Christ.

     Only a miracle-working God could take lumps of clay like you and me and mold us into something new. His love and light have turned my world upside down and I only grow deeper in my love for Jesus as the years drop away, one by one. Each day brings us closer to our heavenly home and each day on earth can draw us closer to the transforming light of Christ.

Dear Jesus,

We no longer walk in the dark. You have shown us the light of the world. It is You. The darkness no longer has power over us. We are Your children today, tomorrow and forever. Give us lives of passion and purpose to shine Your light before others.

Amen

Agape Love

     Our word “love” covers a multitude of meanings. We love our food, our animals, a good book or a movie. The Greeks have several distinct and varied words for love. Here are three of them included in the Words of Scripture.

    The first type of love is philia which means brotherly love, the type of love you would have for a sibling or for a good friend. The second word for love is eros, a romantic love such as a husband and wife have for one another.

    Last but not least is the word, agape, the type of love Christ has for us. We may try to attain this type of love for each other, but it is beyond human capabilities. Agape love was demonstrated when God Himself was made sin for us. He laid down His life for us. He became a humble servant to all.

Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.  John 15:13

     This love is self-less, unconditional, all-consuming and sacrificial. It is patient and kind, slow to anger, filled with loving kindness. It never gives up and never fails. (see 1 Corinthians 13) God is love. He first loved us. Loving and believing in Jesus gives us full access to this agape love.

So we have come to know and to believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and whoever abides in love abides in God, and God abides in Him.  1 John 4:16

    And our loving Father is preparing a place for us. Believe in Him and His all-powerful, never-ending love.

“Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to Myself, that where I am you may be also.” John 14:21-24

     Allow your heart to be at peace. Do not let your heart be troubled. Believe in Jesus. Abide in His love.

Dear Father,

Your sacrificial love came to save us and one day we will be with You. Give us the peace that passes understanding as we live out our days on earth. Thank You for this precious gift of love. We do love You with all of our hearts, with all of our minds, with all of our strength.

In Jesus name

Amen 

Unfailing Love

     God’s love never fails. The definition for the word, “fail” includes;  to become weaker, to cease functioning. The love of our God is strong. It is always alive and working. Here are a few verses for your hearts today:

In Your unfailing love You will lead the people You have redeemed; in Your strength You will guide them to Your holy dwelling.  Exodus 15:13

But I trust in Your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in Your salvation.  Psalm 13:5

For I have always been mindful of Your unfailing love and have lived in reliance on Your faithfulness. Psalm 26:3

Let Your face shine on your servant; save me in Your unfailing love. Psalm 31:16

How priceless is Your unfailing love, O God! People take refuge in the shadow of Your wings.  Psalm 36:7

Satisfy us in the morning with Your unfailing love, that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days.  Psalm 90:14

     Oh, how I want to keep typing. Each one of these verses is rich with meaning for us. This unfailing love is worth meditating on and remembering all the days of our lives. It satisfies us in the morning and causes us to rejoice all of our days. This love will lead us into the holy land of our God. The unfailing love that brought Jesus to die for us conquered death and we have been saved!

     We can rejoice in it. We can trust it. It is priceless and satisfying.  Let this love shine on you today and take it with you wherever you go. God’s unfailing love can be trusted above all others. Well, ok herre’s one more.

“Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet My unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed,” says the Lord who has compassion on you.

Dear Jesus,

Thank you for Your unfailing love. Remind us to begin each day basking in this love as it shines on us. Allow this love to give us strength and hope for each day of our lives. It is reliable. It cannot be shaken.

Amen

     

The Wider, Deeper, Higher, Never-leave-You Kind of Love

     Here are two of my favorite sections of Scripture. It’s all about love this week. These are worth memorizing and pulling out as a reminder that:

          1. God will never leave us, not ever!

          2. Nothing can separate us from Him, not ever!

     

     The Lord Himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.  Deuteronomy 31:8

For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Romans 8:38-39

     This love from God is higher and deeper than any earthly love. It has conquered death and the schemes of Satan. It is the type of love that brings our heavenly God to lay down His life for us. It surpasses knowledge. It conquers fear. It is the kind of love that fills in the gaps of our souls.  Don’t forget, not ever!

Dear Father,

Thank you for reminding us of the love above all other. You first loved us so that we may love others. We praise You today for Your love.

The love of a Father willing to give up His Son on a cross to save us.

Amen