What does psalm 137:1-6 describe?
Psalm 137
1 By the rivers of Babylon we sat and wept
when we remembered Zion.
2 There on the poplars
we hung our harps,
3 for there our captors asked us for songs,
our tormentors demanded songs of joy;
they said, "Sing us one of the songs of Zion!"
4 How can we sing the songs of the LORD
while in a foreign land?
5 If I forget you, O Jerusalem,
may my right hand forget its skill .
6 May my tongue cling to the roof of my mouth
if I do not remember you,
if I do not consider Jerusalem
my highest joy.
7 Remember, O LORD, what the Edomites did
on the day Jerusalem fell.
"Tear it down," they cried,
"tear it down to its foundations!"
8 O Daughter of Babylon, doomed to destruction,
happy is he who repays you
for what you have done to us-
9 he who seizes your infants
and dashes them against the rocks.
The Story of Psalm 137
The *Jews lived in Judah. The country of Babylon was 1000 kilometres to the east. In 586 B.C., the soldiers from Babylon destroyed the capital city of Judah, Jerusalem. B.C. means years Before Christ came to the earth. They took the people that lived there as *prisoners to Babylon. A prisoner is someone in a prison. Or it is someone in a place that they cannot go away from. In 536 B.C. many of the *prisoners and their sons and daughters came back to Jerusalem. In 516 B.C., Persia (now Iran) destroyed Babylon.
This means that we can say when the *psalmist wrote Psalm 137. The *psalmist is the person that wrote the psalm. If you look at verses 1-3 of the psalm, you will see that he (or she) was in Babylon. If you look at verse 8, you will see that Persia has not yet destroyed Babylon. This means that the *psalmist probably wrote the psalm between 536 and 516 B.C. We call the time that the *Jews were *prisoners in Babylon "the *exile". There were two great rivers in Babylon, the Tigris and the Euphrates. There were also small rivers. But the people that lived in Babylon made them. They went between the Tigris River and the Euphrates River. We call them canals. By all these rivers and canals, there were trees. Today we would call them poplar or willow trees. The *Jews in the *exile met by these rivers. They probably talked about Jerusalem and Zion. Zion was one of the hills that they had built the city of Jerusalem on. The *psalmist remembered this when he went home. He also remembered that they could not sing songs about the *LORD in Babylon. Now he was home again. And he hoped that somebody would destroy Babylon as Babylon had destroyed Jerusalem.
Our job is to keep singing the songs of our God by the rivers of babylon until all who have ears to hear can listen. The world ccan't help but notice those accosted by joy!
Friday, August 14, 2009
Neither corrupt nor negligent
What is the context of the word "corrupt" In Daniel 6:4?
Corrupt means:
*corrupt morally or by intemperance or sensuality; "debauch the young people with wine and women"; "Socrates was accused of corrupting young men"; "Do school counselors subvert young children?"; "corrupt the morals"
*lacking in integrity; "humanity they knew to be corrupt...from the day of Adam's creation"; "a corrupt and incompetent city government"
*bribe: make illegal payments to in exchange for favors or influence; "This judge can be bought"
*crooked: not straight; dishonest or immoral or evasive
*defile: place under suspicion or cast doubt upon; "sully someone's reputation"
*containing errors or alterations; "a corrupt text"; "spoke a corrupted version of the language"
*alter from the original
*touched by rot or decay; "tainted bacon"; "`corrupt' is archaic"
And our boy Daniel...he was none of the above.
He was trustworthy and neither corrupt nor negligent.
They found NO corruption in him. he did his job.
My goal is to become like him...void of corruption and negligence.
I'm extraordinary because he's extraordinaty.
I need to start living like it!
Corrupt means:
*corrupt morally or by intemperance or sensuality; "debauch the young people with wine and women"; "Socrates was accused of corrupting young men"; "Do school counselors subvert young children?"; "corrupt the morals"
*lacking in integrity; "humanity they knew to be corrupt...from the day of Adam's creation"; "a corrupt and incompetent city government"
*bribe: make illegal payments to in exchange for favors or influence; "This judge can be bought"
*crooked: not straight; dishonest or immoral or evasive
*defile: place under suspicion or cast doubt upon; "sully someone's reputation"
*containing errors or alterations; "a corrupt text"; "spoke a corrupted version of the language"
*alter from the original
*touched by rot or decay; "tainted bacon"; "`corrupt' is archaic"
And our boy Daniel...he was none of the above.
He was trustworthy and neither corrupt nor negligent.
They found NO corruption in him. he did his job.
My goal is to become like him...void of corruption and negligence.
I'm extraordinary because he's extraordinaty.
I need to start living like it!
The fall of revelations' Babylon
How does Revleation 18 descrive Babylon's excessiveness and wealth?
Revelation 18
1After this I saw another angel coming down from heaven. He had great authority, and the earth was illuminated by his splendor. 2With a mighty voice he shouted:
"Fallen! Fallen is Babylon the Great!
She has become a home for demons
and a haunt for every evil[a] spirit,
a haunt for every unclean and detestable bird.
3For all the nations have drunk
the maddening wine of her adulteries.
The kings of the earth committed adultery with her,
and the merchants of the earth grew rich from her excessive luxuries."
4Then I heard another voice from heaven say:
"Come out of her, my people,
so that you will not share in her sins,
so that you will not receive any of her plagues;
5for her sins are piled up to heaven,
and God has remembered her crimes.
6Give back to her as she has given;
pay her back double for what she has done.
Mix her a double portion from her own cup.
7Give her as much torture and grief
as the glory and luxury she gave herself.
In her heart she boasts,
'I sit as queen; I am not a widow,
and I will never mourn.'
8Therefore in one day her plagues will overtake her:
death, mourning and famine.
She will be consumed by fire,
for mighty is the Lord God who judges her.
9"When the kings of the earth who committed adultery with her and shared her luxury see the smoke of her burning, they will weep and mourn over her. 10Terrified at her torment, they will stand far off and cry:
" 'Woe! Woe, O great city,
O Babylon, city of power!
In one hour your doom has come!'
11"The merchants of the earth will weep and mourn over her because no one buys their cargoes any more— 12cargoes of gold, silver, precious stones and pearls; fine linen, purple, silk and scarlet cloth; every sort of citron wood, and articles of every kind made of ivory, costly wood, bronze, iron and marble; 13cargoes of cinnamon and spice, of incense, myrrh and frankincense, of wine and olive oil, of fine flour and wheat; cattle and sheep; horses and carriages; and bodies and souls of men.
14"They will say, 'The fruit you longed for is gone from you. All your riches and splendor have vanished, never to be recovered.' 15The merchants who sold these things and gained their wealth from her will stand far off, terrified at her torment. They will weep and mourn 16and cry out:
" 'Woe! Woe, O great city,
dressed in fine linen, purple and scarlet,
and glittering with gold, precious stones and pearls!
17In one hour such great wealth has been brought to ruin!'
"Every sea captain, and all who travel by ship, the sailors, and all who earn their living from the sea, will stand far off. 18When they see the smoke of her burning, they will exclaim, 'Was there ever a city like this great city?' 19They will throw dust on their heads, and with weeping and mourning cry out:
" 'Woe! Woe, O great city,
where all who had ships on the sea
became rich through her wealth!
In one hour she has been brought to ruin!
20Rejoice over her, O heaven!
Rejoice, saints and apostles and prophets!
God has judged her for the way she treated you.' "
21Then a mighty angel picked up a boulder the size of a large millstone and threw it into the sea, and said:
"With such violence
the great city of Babylon will be thrown down,
never to be found again.
22The music of harpists and musicians, flute players and trumpeters,
will never be heard in you again.
No workman of any trade
will ever be found in you again.
The sound of a millstone
will never be heard in you again.
23The light of a lamp will never shine in you again.
The voice of bridegroom and bride
will never be heard in you again.
Your merchants were the world's great men.
By your magic spell all the nations were led astray.
24In her was found the blood of prophets and of the saints,
and of all who have been killed on the earth."
(forgive me for the jot notes but it's the only way that this actually makes any sense to me!)
*"excessive luxuries" & selfish excess and sin.
*materialism (seductive and destructive)
*all that was wiped out in an hour.
If abundance leads us to pride, decadence, or an isatiable lust for more, we like the kings descrived in Rvelation 18 re being corrupted by it.
We need to stay alert to satan's seductions and to the songs in His town squares.
Buyer beware.
Revelation 18
1After this I saw another angel coming down from heaven. He had great authority, and the earth was illuminated by his splendor. 2With a mighty voice he shouted:
"Fallen! Fallen is Babylon the Great!
She has become a home for demons
and a haunt for every evil[a] spirit,
a haunt for every unclean and detestable bird.
3For all the nations have drunk
the maddening wine of her adulteries.
The kings of the earth committed adultery with her,
and the merchants of the earth grew rich from her excessive luxuries."
4Then I heard another voice from heaven say:
"Come out of her, my people,
so that you will not share in her sins,
so that you will not receive any of her plagues;
5for her sins are piled up to heaven,
and God has remembered her crimes.
6Give back to her as she has given;
pay her back double for what she has done.
Mix her a double portion from her own cup.
7Give her as much torture and grief
as the glory and luxury she gave herself.
In her heart she boasts,
'I sit as queen; I am not a widow,
and I will never mourn.'
8Therefore in one day her plagues will overtake her:
death, mourning and famine.
She will be consumed by fire,
for mighty is the Lord God who judges her.
9"When the kings of the earth who committed adultery with her and shared her luxury see the smoke of her burning, they will weep and mourn over her. 10Terrified at her torment, they will stand far off and cry:
" 'Woe! Woe, O great city,
O Babylon, city of power!
In one hour your doom has come!'
11"The merchants of the earth will weep and mourn over her because no one buys their cargoes any more— 12cargoes of gold, silver, precious stones and pearls; fine linen, purple, silk and scarlet cloth; every sort of citron wood, and articles of every kind made of ivory, costly wood, bronze, iron and marble; 13cargoes of cinnamon and spice, of incense, myrrh and frankincense, of wine and olive oil, of fine flour and wheat; cattle and sheep; horses and carriages; and bodies and souls of men.
14"They will say, 'The fruit you longed for is gone from you. All your riches and splendor have vanished, never to be recovered.' 15The merchants who sold these things and gained their wealth from her will stand far off, terrified at her torment. They will weep and mourn 16and cry out:
" 'Woe! Woe, O great city,
dressed in fine linen, purple and scarlet,
and glittering with gold, precious stones and pearls!
17In one hour such great wealth has been brought to ruin!'
"Every sea captain, and all who travel by ship, the sailors, and all who earn their living from the sea, will stand far off. 18When they see the smoke of her burning, they will exclaim, 'Was there ever a city like this great city?' 19They will throw dust on their heads, and with weeping and mourning cry out:
" 'Woe! Woe, O great city,
where all who had ships on the sea
became rich through her wealth!
In one hour she has been brought to ruin!
20Rejoice over her, O heaven!
Rejoice, saints and apostles and prophets!
God has judged her for the way she treated you.' "
21Then a mighty angel picked up a boulder the size of a large millstone and threw it into the sea, and said:
"With such violence
the great city of Babylon will be thrown down,
never to be found again.
22The music of harpists and musicians, flute players and trumpeters,
will never be heard in you again.
No workman of any trade
will ever be found in you again.
The sound of a millstone
will never be heard in you again.
23The light of a lamp will never shine in you again.
The voice of bridegroom and bride
will never be heard in you again.
Your merchants were the world's great men.
By your magic spell all the nations were led astray.
24In her was found the blood of prophets and of the saints,
and of all who have been killed on the earth."
(forgive me for the jot notes but it's the only way that this actually makes any sense to me!)
*"excessive luxuries" & selfish excess and sin.
*materialism (seductive and destructive)
*all that was wiped out in an hour.
If abundance leads us to pride, decadence, or an isatiable lust for more, we like the kings descrived in Rvelation 18 re being corrupted by it.
We need to stay alert to satan's seductions and to the songs in His town squares.
Buyer beware.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Mystery Babylon
Why is Babylon symbolically described as a prostutute?
Perhaps it is becasuse, like a prostute her ability to seductively lure people away from God by offering false-and instant-fulfillment.
Perhaps it is becasuse, like a prostute her ability to seductively lure people away from God by offering false-and instant-fulfillment.
Same spot, Different Despot
What would happen at the completion of the captivity (Jer. 29:10-14)?
Hmmm, well let's see what the scripture is:
10 This is what the LORD says: "When seventy years are completed for Babylon, I will come to you and fulfill my gracious promise to bring you back to this place. 11 For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. 12 Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. 13 You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. 14 I will be found by you," declares the LORD, "and will bring you back from captivity. [a] I will gather you from all the nations and places where I have banished you," declares the LORD, "and will bring you back to the place from which I carried you into exile."
..sounds like to me that God is going to come for his children and fulfill the promise that he made them.
To bring them back to where they were supposed to be.
To prosper them, give them a hope and a future that included a relationship with him.
I want to give him unhindered access, trusting that God is with me!!
Hmmm, well let's see what the scripture is:
10 This is what the LORD says: "When seventy years are completed for Babylon, I will come to you and fulfill my gracious promise to bring you back to this place. 11 For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. 12 Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. 13 You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. 14 I will be found by you," declares the LORD, "and will bring you back from captivity. [a] I will gather you from all the nations and places where I have banished you," declares the LORD, "and will bring you back to the place from which I carried you into exile."
..sounds like to me that God is going to come for his children and fulfill the promise that he made them.
To bring them back to where they were supposed to be.
To prosper them, give them a hope and a future that included a relationship with him.
I want to give him unhindered access, trusting that God is with me!!
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
weighed and found wanting
What was Belshazzar's defining mistake (Dan.5:22)
22“But you his son,O Belshazzar, have not humbled yourself, though you knew all this.
He KNEW what took down his Grandfather yet refused to humble himself before the lord.
He set himself up against the Lord of heaven. Bad idea....I promise you we'll lose.
22“But you his son,O Belshazzar, have not humbled yourself, though you knew all this.
He KNEW what took down his Grandfather yet refused to humble himself before the lord.
He set himself up against the Lord of heaven. Bad idea....I promise you we'll lose.
An extraordinary spirt
How is Daniel described in Daniel 5:10-17?
10The queen,c hearing the voices of the king and his nobles, came into the banquet hall. “O king, live forever!” she said. “Don’t be alarmed! Don’t look so pale! 11There is a man in your kingdom who has the spirit of the holy gods in him. In the time of your father he was found to have insight and intelligence and wisdom like that of the gods. King Nebuchadnezzar your father—your father the king, I say—appointed him chief of the magicians, enchanters, astrologers and diviners. 12This man Daniel, whom the king called Belteshazzar, was found to have a keen mind and knowledge and understanding, and also the ability to interpret dreams, explain riddles and solve difficult problems. Call for Daniel, and he will tell you what the writing means.”
13So Daniel was brought before the king, and the king said to him, “Are you Daniel, one of the exiles my father the king brought from Judah? 14I have heard that the spirit of the gods is in you and that you have insight, intelligence and outstanding wisdom. 15The wise men and enchanters were brought before me to read this writing and tell me what it means, but they could not explain it. 16Now I have heard that you are able to give interpretations and to solve difficult problems. If you can read this writing and tell me what it means, you will be clothed in purple and have a gold chain placed around your neck, and you will be made the third highest ruler in the kingdom.”
17Then Daniel answered the king, “You may keep your gifts for yourself and give your rewards to someone else. Nevertheless, I will read the writing for the king and tell him what it means.
He had:
*a keen mind and knowledge and understanding, and also the ability to interpret dreams, explain riddles and solve difficult problems.
*has the spirit of the holy gods in him (the great I am not the "holy gods")
10The queen,c hearing the voices of the king and his nobles, came into the banquet hall. “O king, live forever!” she said. “Don’t be alarmed! Don’t look so pale! 11There is a man in your kingdom who has the spirit of the holy gods in him. In the time of your father he was found to have insight and intelligence and wisdom like that of the gods. King Nebuchadnezzar your father—your father the king, I say—appointed him chief of the magicians, enchanters, astrologers and diviners. 12This man Daniel, whom the king called Belteshazzar, was found to have a keen mind and knowledge and understanding, and also the ability to interpret dreams, explain riddles and solve difficult problems. Call for Daniel, and he will tell you what the writing means.”
13So Daniel was brought before the king, and the king said to him, “Are you Daniel, one of the exiles my father the king brought from Judah? 14I have heard that the spirit of the gods is in you and that you have insight, intelligence and outstanding wisdom. 15The wise men and enchanters were brought before me to read this writing and tell me what it means, but they could not explain it. 16Now I have heard that you are able to give interpretations and to solve difficult problems. If you can read this writing and tell me what it means, you will be clothed in purple and have a gold chain placed around your neck, and you will be made the third highest ruler in the kingdom.”
17Then Daniel answered the king, “You may keep your gifts for yourself and give your rewards to someone else. Nevertheless, I will read the writing for the king and tell him what it means.
He had:
*a keen mind and knowledge and understanding, and also the ability to interpret dreams, explain riddles and solve difficult problems.
*has the spirit of the holy gods in him (the great I am not the "holy gods")
Healthy sorrow
What does James 1:13-18 tell you about God?
"when tempted, no one should say, "God is tempting me," for God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; but each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death. Don't be deceived, my dear brothers. Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. he chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of first fruits of all he created." James 1:13-18
WoW!!
*God does not tempt anyone.
*every perfect and good gift is from him
*he does not change (how important to know that he is the same yesterday, today and forever!!)
*he gave us life and made us first fruits.
"when tempted, no one should say, "God is tempting me," for God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; but each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death. Don't be deceived, my dear brothers. Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. he chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of first fruits of all he created." James 1:13-18
WoW!!
*God does not tempt anyone.
*every perfect and good gift is from him
*he does not change (how important to know that he is the same yesterday, today and forever!!)
*he gave us life and made us first fruits.
unholy use of Holy vessels
What parallel can you draw between Belshazzar and Satan (2 Tim. 2:20-21,26)?
"In a large house there are articles not only of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay; some are for noble purposes and some for ignoble. If a man cleanses himself from the latter, he will be an instrument for noble purposes, made holy, useful to the master and prepared to do any good work. And that they will come to their senses and escape from the rap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will." 2 Tim. 2:20-21,26
Belshazzar took what was set apart and made holy for their keg party.
Just like Satan tries to do with us..if he can get us to cooperate.
Satan is nothing but subtle so we are often unaware at first that we're cooperating!!
How many times have I been caught in his snare?
But, if we turn our lives and hearts over to God he will cleanse us and use us for his purpose.
I am the holy vessel that Satan wants to use for unholy purposes and as God's holy child, he wants to prepare ME for great use!
"In a large house there are articles not only of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay; some are for noble purposes and some for ignoble. If a man cleanses himself from the latter, he will be an instrument for noble purposes, made holy, useful to the master and prepared to do any good work. And that they will come to their senses and escape from the rap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will." 2 Tim. 2:20-21,26
Belshazzar took what was set apart and made holy for their keg party.
Just like Satan tries to do with us..if he can get us to cooperate.
Satan is nothing but subtle so we are often unaware at first that we're cooperating!!
How many times have I been caught in his snare?
But, if we turn our lives and hearts over to God he will cleanse us and use us for his purpose.
I am the holy vessel that Satan wants to use for unholy purposes and as God's holy child, he wants to prepare ME for great use!
The handwriting on the wall
Who was the new Babylonian ruler introduced in Session 5 (Dan. 5:1)?
We are briefly introduced to King Belshazzar who was in the middle of a great banquet for a thousand of his nobles.
He was co-regent at the time with his father Nabonidas.
And the successor of Nebuchadnezzar who died in 562 B.C.
We are briefly introduced to King Belshazzar who was in the middle of a great banquet for a thousand of his nobles.
He was co-regent at the time with his father Nabonidas.
And the successor of Nebuchadnezzar who died in 562 B.C.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Break Off
What did Daniel advise King Nebuchadnezzar to do in verse 27?
Daniel told the king "Renounce your sins by doing what is right, and your wickedness by being kind to the oppressed. It may be that then your prosperity will continue."
Some things Don't need to be cut back. They need to be cut off!!
Daniel told the king "Renounce your sins by doing what is right, and your wickedness by being kind to the oppressed. It may be that then your prosperity will continue."
Some things Don't need to be cut back. They need to be cut off!!
Stripped leaves & Scattered fruit
Why was King Nebuchadnezzar so incomparable in his day (Dan. 2:37-38)?
According to Daniel2:33-38 he was incomparable because "The God of heaven has given you dominion and power and might and Glory."
Nebuchadnezzar's reign had been like a sheltering, fruit-bearing tree, but God alone seeded it, watered it, raised it and blessed it. Without God, the kings of the earth are as nothing-including those who never acknowledge His name.
But he didn't "get it" and soon..he wouldn't even "have it"
According to Daniel2:33-38 he was incomparable because "The God of heaven has given you dominion and power and might and Glory."
Nebuchadnezzar's reign had been like a sheltering, fruit-bearing tree, but God alone seeded it, watered it, raised it and blessed it. Without God, the kings of the earth are as nothing-including those who never acknowledge His name.
But he didn't "get it" and soon..he wouldn't even "have it"
Stubborn minds
How can you tell King Nebuchadnezzar still didn't get the picture (Dan.4:8)
Over 30 years had passed since King Neb's first prophetic dream recorded in Daniel 2 to his second dream in Daniel 4 and yet Nebuchadnezzar could not seem to dislodge his thinking! The truth that Daniel's God is the one and only God had never taken root in the inmost places of his heart. He greatly honored the God of Daniel by putting him a little higher than all the other gods but he just didn't "get it".
We are powerless to force spiritual understanding on another person. We an encourage, teach, and urge, ut we can't make them "get it".
Thankfully God can!
"Then he opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures." Luke 24:45
Only the Holy Spirt can breath a fresh breath of insight!
Over 30 years had passed since King Neb's first prophetic dream recorded in Daniel 2 to his second dream in Daniel 4 and yet Nebuchadnezzar could not seem to dislodge his thinking! The truth that Daniel's God is the one and only God had never taken root in the inmost places of his heart. He greatly honored the God of Daniel by putting him a little higher than all the other gods but he just didn't "get it".
We are powerless to force spiritual understanding on another person. We an encourage, teach, and urge, ut we can't make them "get it".
Thankfully God can!
"Then he opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures." Luke 24:45
Only the Holy Spirt can breath a fresh breath of insight!
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
The Lap of Luxury
How does our culture define contented and prosperous?
Contented:
Feeling or showing satisfaction with one's possessions, status, or situation.
Prosperous:
Marked by success or economic well- being.
Enjoying vigorous and healthy growth
Like Beth said in my last session..."Rich is anyone who could buy the book and the education to be able to read the book!"
I want to have an abundance of him!
Make me courageous enough to pray that no earthly luxury would ever cheat me of true prosperity.
Contented:
Feeling or showing satisfaction with one's possessions, status, or situation.
Prosperous:
Marked by success or economic well- being.
Enjoying vigorous and healthy growth
Like Beth said in my last session..."Rich is anyone who could buy the book and the education to be able to read the book!"
I want to have an abundance of him!
Make me courageous enough to pray that no earthly luxury would ever cheat me of true prosperity.
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
My Pleasure to tell
How did Nebuchadnezzar feel about sharing what God had done for him?
Nebuchadnezzar's proclamation came from the vantage point of hindsight.
His proclamation came after his sanity was resorted...when he was thinking straight again.
"in order to testify to God's greatness and power, he had to show himself foolish. Indeed, beastly.
I can relate to Nebuchadnezzar. "When my thoughts were bitter and my feelings were hurt,
I was a stupid as an animal." I may not have looked as animal-like as Nebuchadnezzar, but I have acted as stupid as am animal over my bitterness and hurt.
I'm sure that I am not the only one.
Am I as willing to take the risk of looking foolish to share a powerful testimony?
A testimony is a powerful way to make God famous in our sphere of influence.
In God's economy, the way up is down. Then measured from our knees to the tips of our heads, beloved, we keep getting taller.
Nebuchadnezzar's proclamation came from the vantage point of hindsight.
His proclamation came after his sanity was resorted...when he was thinking straight again.
"in order to testify to God's greatness and power, he had to show himself foolish. Indeed, beastly.
I can relate to Nebuchadnezzar. "When my thoughts were bitter and my feelings were hurt,
I was a stupid as an animal." I may not have looked as animal-like as Nebuchadnezzar, but I have acted as stupid as am animal over my bitterness and hurt.
I'm sure that I am not the only one.
Am I as willing to take the risk of looking foolish to share a powerful testimony?
A testimony is a powerful way to make God famous in our sphere of influence.
In God's economy, the way up is down. Then measured from our knees to the tips of our heads, beloved, we keep getting taller.
Friday, June 5, 2009
If he does not
How did John Hus or Hugh Latimer and Nicholas Ridley exhibit loyalty?
John Hus actively promoted Wycliffe’s ideas: that people should be permitted to read the Bible in their own language, and they should oppose the tyranny of the Roman church that threatened anyone possessing a non-Latin Bible with execution. Hus was burned at the stake in 1415, with Wycliffe’s manuscript Bibles used as kindling for the fire. He was fixed, steadfast and faithful even to the end.
Hugh Latimer and Nicholas Ridley both met their end at the stake in Oxford on the 16th of October 1555. They were ready, prepared and determined.
*We can be delivered from the fire
*our faith is built
*We can be delivered through the fire
*our faith is refined
*We can be delivered by the fire into His arms.
*Our faith is perfected.
"For I am convinced that neither death nor live, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers;, neither height nor dept, 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
I trust you to the death.
I trust you through the death.
I know that the blink of an eye, I will understand.
Will you?
John Hus actively promoted Wycliffe’s ideas: that people should be permitted to read the Bible in their own language, and they should oppose the tyranny of the Roman church that threatened anyone possessing a non-Latin Bible with execution. Hus was burned at the stake in 1415, with Wycliffe’s manuscript Bibles used as kindling for the fire. He was fixed, steadfast and faithful even to the end.
Hugh Latimer and Nicholas Ridley both met their end at the stake in Oxford on the 16th of October 1555. They were ready, prepared and determined.
*We can be delivered from the fire
*our faith is built
*We can be delivered through the fire
*our faith is refined
*We can be delivered by the fire into His arms.
*Our faith is perfected.
"For I am convinced that neither death nor live, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers;, neither height nor dept, 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
I trust you to the death.
I trust you through the death.
I know that the blink of an eye, I will understand.
Will you?
The heart of loyalty
Based on your own understanding, how would you define loyalty?
Loyalty:
–noun, plural -ties.
1. the state or quality of being loyal; faithfulness to commitments or obligations.
2. faithful adherence to a sovereign, government, leader, cause, etc.
3. an example or instance of faithfulness, adherence, or the like: a man with fierce loyalties.
**devoted attachment to something or someone**
The original Hebrew word: "to be firm, be established, be steadfast, be faithful, be sure, be reliable, be fixed, be certain: to be ready, be prepared; to be determined"
..the part of the definition that spoke fresh truth to me was the element of preparation.
This is not something that I am suddenly at the flash-moment of testing. It's something I already am at the surface In the test. The question has already been answered. I simply act upon it.
God has never let me down!!
He will do it again and again..
I need to stand in that word and stand in faith.
I know where my loyalty stands with Christ.
Do you?
Loyalty:
–noun, plural -ties.
1. the state or quality of being loyal; faithfulness to commitments or obligations.
2. faithful adherence to a sovereign, government, leader, cause, etc.
3. an example or instance of faithfulness, adherence, or the like: a man with fierce loyalties.
**devoted attachment to something or someone**
The original Hebrew word: "to be firm, be established, be steadfast, be faithful, be sure, be reliable, be fixed, be certain: to be ready, be prepared; to be determined"
..the part of the definition that spoke fresh truth to me was the element of preparation.
This is not something that I am suddenly at the flash-moment of testing. It's something I already am at the surface In the test. The question has already been answered. I simply act upon it.
God has never let me down!!
He will do it again and again..
I need to stand in that word and stand in faith.
I know where my loyalty stands with Christ.
Do you?
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
The Apple of His eye
What does Galatians 5:15 warn will happen if two people don't cease "biting and devouring each other"?
Denounce means "ate a piece of"...the astrologers were trying to kill Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego with their words.
I will admit that there are times when I bite and devour with words during heated conflicts and I 'm sure each of us still has a scar or two from an old bit. By that I mean something said that hurt badly enough not to be forgotten.
What an unhealthy and miserable way to live!
I need to find less destructive ways to communicate my frustration.
I am the spiritual see of Abraham. Nothing touches me without touching His eye.
Nothing bites me without Him feeling it.
He sees.
He knows.
He acts.
And, best of all, He heals.
Father forgive me for all the words that should have never been uttered...heal those that I hurt! Father heal the hurts that I have felt too.
Denounce means "ate a piece of"...the astrologers were trying to kill Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego with their words.
I will admit that there are times when I bite and devour with words during heated conflicts and I 'm sure each of us still has a scar or two from an old bit. By that I mean something said that hurt badly enough not to be forgotten.
What an unhealthy and miserable way to live!
I need to find less destructive ways to communicate my frustration.
I am the spiritual see of Abraham. Nothing touches me without touching His eye.
Nothing bites me without Him feeling it.
He sees.
He knows.
He acts.
And, best of all, He heals.
Father forgive me for all the words that should have never been uttered...heal those that I hurt! Father heal the hurts that I have felt too.
Another side of self-absorption
What does James 3:13-16 say about selfish ambition? I agree when Beth said that our culturally indoctrinated brains need a fresh washing by the Word.
"Who is wise and understanding among you?
Let him show it by his good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom.
But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition i your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth.
Such "wisdom" does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, of the devil
For where you have envy an selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice."
James 3:13-16
We think we want to be one top, whether socially, professionally, athletically, or ministerially. Yet nothing breeds more insecurity. The World says, "seek Position!" The Word say, "seek God"
I want to give my entire life to the pursuit of God.
I know that everything else of value will find me.
I want a head-on collision with calling, a sense of purpose, satisfaction.
I have been chosen, by the God of all creation for a life worth living.
I will never feel inferior again!
"Who is wise and understanding among you?
Let him show it by his good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom.
But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition i your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth.
Such "wisdom" does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, of the devil
For where you have envy an selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice."
James 3:13-16
We think we want to be one top, whether socially, professionally, athletically, or ministerially. Yet nothing breeds more insecurity. The World says, "seek Position!" The Word say, "seek God"
I want to give my entire life to the pursuit of God.
I know that everything else of value will find me.
I want a head-on collision with calling, a sense of purpose, satisfaction.
I have been chosen, by the God of all creation for a life worth living.
I will never feel inferior again!
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Taller when others bow
How did Christ's teachings fly in the face of Babylon's self-absorbed, ego-stroked, overindulgent mind set?
The world screams "I am, and there is none beside me" but Christ calls us to submit to the Father's will.
We need to say no to any selfishness or unhealthy pride that could inhibit the genuine humility and faith God desires.
We need to deny our self-centredness so that his priorities become ours.
Thankfully he helsp us daily because there is no way I can do this on my own!!
The world screams "I am, and there is none beside me" but Christ calls us to submit to the Father's will.
We need to say no to any selfishness or unhealthy pride that could inhibit the genuine humility and faith God desires.
We need to deny our self-centredness so that his priorities become ours.
Thankfully he helsp us daily because there is no way I can do this on my own!!
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Daniel's Interpretation
In what ways did Daniel carefully credit God with the dream's revelation?
Goose bumps ran up and down my arms when I read
"There is a God in heaven who reveals mysteries." (Daniel 2:28) and even typing the very words I got new ones! Can you imagine going into the throne room of a pagan king and revealing what the true God in Heaven had to say about the kings dream and what it meant!
This study is getting so interesting!!
I find myself growing more and more fascinated by the material and I am cherishing my quiet time alone with God.
I absolutely love the challenge, and am hoping that you are getting something out of this too!
Did you notice that we are literally living in the "feet and toes" part of this?
I did too!!
Goose bumps ran up and down my arms when I read
"There is a God in heaven who reveals mysteries." (Daniel 2:28) and even typing the very words I got new ones! Can you imagine going into the throne room of a pagan king and revealing what the true God in Heaven had to say about the kings dream and what it meant!
This study is getting so interesting!!
I find myself growing more and more fascinated by the material and I am cherishing my quiet time alone with God.
I absolutely love the challenge, and am hoping that you are getting something out of this too!
Did you notice that we are literally living in the "feet and toes" part of this?
I did too!!
Monday, May 25, 2009
From "He" to "you"
How was God's sovereignty and providence expressed in Daniel 2:20-23?
"Every believer in Christ is called to extol the greatness of God and voice the manifold evidence of His faithfulness.
We were meant to make some joyful noise!!
..a few that make the very hair of my body stand up straight!!
Isn't God awesome.
"Providence: God has a plan and purpose for His world.
Providence is not a principle of orderliness or reason: Rather, providence is the will of the Creator who is actively involved in moving His creation to a goal.
History is not a cyclical process of endless repetition: history is being moved toward the predetermined end. "
If God says something to me, I want to hear it and respon to it. If God shows me something I want to see it and walk in it!
"Every believer in Christ is called to extol the greatness of God and voice the manifold evidence of His faithfulness.
..a few that make the very hair of my body stand up straight!!
Isn't God awesome.
"Providence: God has a plan and purpose for His world.
Providence is not a principle of orderliness or reason: Rather, providence is the will of the Creator who is actively involved in moving His creation to a goal.
History is not a cyclical process of endless repetition: history is being moved toward the predetermined end. "
If God says something to me, I want to hear it and respon to it. If God shows me something I want to see it and walk in it!
Praise to the God of Heaven
When did the revelation come (Dan.2:19)?
We left Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah on their knees in prayer.
Urgent prayer.
It was during the night that God revealed the mystery to Daniel.
Can you imagine being one of the three who didn't receive it?
Their place was critical but at the same time they had to trust that God had given a clean answer that concerned their very lives to someone else.
What a challenge it would be to trust someones else's relationship with God.
It would be huge to be the "me" in "we" who is chosen to hear from God on behalf of others.
The answer to urgent prayer calls for urgent praise!
"Praise be to the name of God for ever and ever;
wisdom and power are his.
He changes times and seasons;
he sets up kings and deposes them.
He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to he discerning.
He reveals deep and hidden things;
he knows what lies in darkness, and light dwells with him.
I thank and praise you, O God of my fathers:
you have given me wisdom and power,
you have made known to me what we asked of you,
you have made know to me what we asked of you,
you have made known to us the dram of the king."
Daniel 2:20-23
We left Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah on their knees in prayer.
Urgent prayer.
It was during the night that God revealed the mystery to Daniel.
Can you imagine being one of the three who didn't receive it?
Their place was critical but at the same time they had to trust that God had given a clean answer that concerned their very lives to someone else.
What a challenge it would be to trust someones else's relationship with God.
It would be huge to be the "me" in "we" who is chosen to hear from God on behalf of others.
wisdom and power are his.
He changes times and seasons;
he sets up kings and deposes them.
He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to he discerning.
He reveals deep and hidden things;
he knows what lies in darkness, and light dwells with him.
I thank and praise you, O God of my fathers:
you have given me wisdom and power,
you have made known to me what we asked of you,
you have made know to me what we asked of you,
you have made known to us the dram of the king."
Daniel 2:20-23
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Urgent tact, urgent prayer
How does Daniel's approach to Arioch show tact?
Tact means: consideration in dealing with others and avoiding giving offense,
Able to deal with people in a sensitive manner
Daniel mustered up the astonishing courage to ask a difficult question that cold have been treated as an open criticism of he King, "Why did the king issue such a harsh decree?" Instead Daniels' tact kept his words from tasting bad on the tongue of the executioner.
And then they fell on their knees and prayed.
Prayed until the Lord of Lords and King of Kings gave them not only what the dream was but the meaning behind it too.
Isn't God awesome!
I will admit.
Tact has not always been my strongest point.
But, I am believing that with God that will change.
Tact means: consideration in dealing with others and avoiding giving offense,
Able to deal with people in a sensitive manner
Daniel mustered up the astonishing courage to ask a difficult question that cold have been treated as an open criticism of he King, "Why did the king issue such a harsh decree?" Instead Daniels' tact kept his words from tasting bad on the tongue of the executioner.
And then they fell on their knees and prayed.
Prayed until the Lord of Lords and King of Kings gave them not only what the dream was but the meaning behind it too.
Isn't God awesome!
I will admit.
Tact has not always been my strongest point.
But, I am believing that with God that will change.
A Royaly Troubled Mind
How does the dream impact King Nebuchadnezzar
(Dan.2:1-12)
I think that the dream jolted the king awake and left his heart pounding.
The very worst kind of dream that anyone could have.
A dream that shook him to the very core since he believed that dreams were given by the gods, however he wasn't aware yet that this dream was given to him by the God.
I have awakened from a terribly troubling dream that I couldn't remember what it was even though I tried and tried to rewind the tape of my memory to find it.
I think that's how he felt so that's why he threatened to dismember the magicians, enchanters, sorcerers and astrologers" if they couldn't tell him what he dreamed and what it meant.
I can only imagine the horor on their faces as reality hit..they were expendable even though they enjoyed superiority amog the masses, they had no security.
I am so very thhankful that I belong to the kingdom yet I am not expendable.
"Indeed, the very hairs on your head are all numbered" (Luke 12:7) and he even knows that I need to get my highlights re-done.
(Dan.2:1-12)
I think that the dream jolted the king awake and left his heart pounding.
The very worst kind of dream that anyone could have.
A dream that shook him to the very core since he believed that dreams were given by the gods, however he wasn't aware yet that this dream was given to him by the God.
I have awakened from a terribly troubling dream that I couldn't remember what it was even though I tried and tried to rewind the tape of my memory to find it.
I think that's how he felt so that's why he threatened to dismember the magicians, enchanters, sorcerers and astrologers" if they couldn't tell him what he dreamed and what it meant.
I can only imagine the horor on their faces as reality hit..they were expendable even though they enjoyed superiority amog the masses, they had no security.
I am so very thhankful that I belong to the kingdom yet I am not expendable.
"Indeed, the very hairs on your head are all numbered" (Luke 12:7) and he even knows that I need to get my highlights re-done.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Resolve
What was the chief of Nebuchadnezzar's court instructed to teach the Hebrew youths?
..he wanted to teach them the language and literature of the Babylonians.
They tried to indoctrinate their minds and steal their souls., God granted the young men His own knowledge and understanding in every matter. Whatever Babylon taught them, God interpreted to them. They retained a God-Centered worldview so that ultimately the world could view their God. Amazing!!
One point that really stood out to me during today's homework was that " the lifeblood of integrity is becoming the same person no matter where we are-no matter who's around. The quality or state of being complete or undivided. Calling us to live inside-out while keeping the outside from coming in.
I moved A LOT when I was growing up..every 3 1/2 years to be exact so it was very easy for me to "re-invent" myself along the way. Trading old habits for new ones along with the way I wore my clothing and the outside person that I wanted to project myself being. Wasn't too hard actually but after all those costume changes it can be hard to remember who those people "thought" you were to who you actually are.
I want to be a Daniel.
I want to resist the tidal wave of temptation to blend in and I want to live a life of integrity.
..he wanted to teach them the language and literature of the Babylonians.
They tried to indoctrinate their minds and steal their souls., God granted the young men His own knowledge and understanding in every matter. Whatever Babylon taught them, God interpreted to them. They retained a God-Centered worldview so that ultimately the world could view their God. Amazing!!
One point that really stood out to me during today's homework was that " the lifeblood of integrity is becoming the same person no matter where we are-no matter who's around. The quality or state of being complete or undivided. Calling us to live inside-out while keeping the outside from coming in.
I moved A LOT when I was growing up..every 3 1/2 years to be exact so it was very easy for me to "re-invent" myself along the way. Trading old habits for new ones along with the way I wore my clothing and the outside person that I wanted to project myself being. Wasn't too hard actually but after all those costume changes it can be hard to remember who those people "thought" you were to who you actually are.
I want to be a Daniel.
I want to resist the tidal wave of temptation to blend in and I want to live a life of integrity.
Friday, May 15, 2009
Renaming and Resisting
Which four young men are singled out in Daniel 1:6-7?
The chief official gave them new names: to Daniel, the name Belteshazzar; to Hananiah, Shadrack; to Mishael;and to Azariah, Abednego.
Daniel 1:7
What's in a name?
As a mother to msc (many small children) picking names is one of the hardest things to do.
With our youngest it took us nearly 2 days to finally come to a decision that we both loved. I will admit that sentimental value had a far bigger priority than the actually meaning. I guess next tima around I will put more time into seaching for the meanings...
Daniel means "God is my judge"
Hananiah means "Yah has been gracious."
Mishael means, "Who is what God is?"
Azariah means "Yah has helped."
Their new names had meaning too.
Daniel becomes Belteshazzar (Bel will protect)
Hananiah becomes Shadrack (inspired of Aku)
Mishael becomes Meshack (belonging to Aku)
Azariah becomes Abednego (servent of Nego)
*Bel, Nego and Aku were false gods of the Babylonians*
One interesting point that I saw in the homework was that changing a name the intention was to change the entire identity of the bearer until the life matched the title. God originated the concept when he changed Abram's name to Abraham. The world system with the enemy at its help could not resist offering its own counterfeits to serve its own idols.
..the world can call me what it wants, but it cannot change who I am.
I am Gods!!
The chief official gave them new names: to Daniel, the name Belteshazzar; to Hananiah, Shadrack; to Mishael;and to Azariah, Abednego.
Daniel 1:7
What's in a name?
As a mother to msc (many small children) picking names is one of the hardest things to do.
With our youngest it took us nearly 2 days to finally come to a decision that we both loved. I will admit that sentimental value had a far bigger priority than the actually meaning. I guess next tima around I will put more time into seaching for the meanings...
Daniel means "God is my judge"
Hananiah means "Yah has been gracious."
Mishael means, "Who is what God is?"
Azariah means "Yah has helped."
Their new names had meaning too.
Daniel becomes Belteshazzar (Bel will protect)
Hananiah becomes Shadrack (inspired of Aku)
Mishael becomes Meshack (belonging to Aku)
Azariah becomes Abednego (servent of Nego)
*Bel, Nego and Aku were false gods of the Babylonians*
One interesting point that I saw in the homework was that changing a name the intention was to change the entire identity of the bearer until the life matched the title. God originated the concept when he changed Abram's name to Abraham. The world system with the enemy at its help could not resist offering its own counterfeits to serve its own idols.
..the world can call me what it wants, but it cannot change who I am.
I am Gods!!
Thursday, May 14, 2009
The Power of training
What kinds of Israelites did the king order Ashpenaz to bring to Babylon?
Ashepenaz took the "pick of the litter" when they hauled the Israelites and dragged them into Babylon.
He chose the royal family and the nobility.
He wanted their young men, handsome and smart.
And he wanted to mold their minds and shape who they were to become by filling their heads with garble gook.
They Israelites were just kids!
They were indoctrinated in Babylonian "language and literature". Everything from history, religious beliefs and all manner of cultural propaganda.
Beth was right when she said "whether or not we are conscious of it, you and I are daily being indoctrinated and "trained" by our culture.
The high premiums our culture places upon age, appearance, and intelligence are obvious.
Which is exactly opposite to what God wants us to set our premiums on.
Isn't it comforting to know that we are useful even when we are old, wrinkled and slow!
"Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives' tales; Rather, train yourself to be godly. For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come. 1 Timothy 4: 7-8
Thankfully not one moment we spend in Bible study will ever be wasted!
That this study time is training myself in godliness.
Tutor me Father and teach me to win!!
Ashepenaz took the "pick of the litter" when they hauled the Israelites and dragged them into Babylon.
He chose the royal family and the nobility.
He wanted their young men, handsome and smart.
And he wanted to mold their minds and shape who they were to become by filling their heads with garble gook.
They Israelites were just kids!
They were indoctrinated in Babylonian "language and literature". Everything from history, religious beliefs and all manner of cultural propaganda.
Beth was right when she said "whether or not we are conscious of it, you and I are daily being indoctrinated and "trained" by our culture.
The high premiums our culture places upon age, appearance, and intelligence are obvious.
Which is exactly opposite to what God wants us to set our premiums on.
Isn't it comforting to know that we are useful even when we are old, wrinkled and slow!
"Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives' tales; Rather, train yourself to be godly. For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come. 1 Timothy 4: 7-8
Thankfully not one moment we spend in Bible study will ever be wasted!
That this study time is training myself in godliness.
Tutor me Father and teach me to win!!
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Ties between past and present
What specific prophecy of Isaiah did Daniel witness in fulfillment?
"Jeremiah preached in Jerusalem at the very time Daniel lived within its walls; and, in all likelihood, he heard the prophet's proclamations with his own ears."
Imagine the look of shock on Daniel's face when he realized that he was apart of the fulfillment of prophecy given over a hundred years before hand. To see the anger on his face when the temple articles were being removed and his people were being taken away.
Away from their homes and all that they knew and loved.
God wasn't kidding when he said " The time will surely come when everything in your palace, and all that your fathers have stored up until this day, will be carried off to Babylon. Nothing will be left, says the Lord And some of your descendants, your own flesh and blood who will be born to you will be taken away, and they will become eunuchs in the palace of the King of Babylon."
Isaiah 39: 5-6
**Prophecy that was fulfilled in Daniel 1:1-2**
But Hezekiah's reaction..WoW.
Stunningly selfish is an understatement.
Fits the "I am, and there is none beside me" motto to a t if you ask me!
"Jeremiah preached in Jerusalem at the very time Daniel lived within its walls; and, in all likelihood, he heard the prophet's proclamations with his own ears."
Imagine the look of shock on Daniel's face when he realized that he was apart of the fulfillment of prophecy given over a hundred years before hand. To see the anger on his face when the temple articles were being removed and his people were being taken away.
Away from their homes and all that they knew and loved.
God wasn't kidding when he said " The time will surely come when everything in your palace, and all that your fathers have stored up until this day, will be carried off to Babylon. Nothing will be left, says the Lord And some of your descendants, your own flesh and blood who will be born to you will be taken away, and they will become eunuchs in the palace of the King of Babylon."
Isaiah 39: 5-6
**Prophecy that was fulfilled in Daniel 1:1-2**
But Hezekiah's reaction..WoW.
Stunningly selfish is an understatement.
Fits the "I am, and there is none beside me" motto to a t if you ask me!
Not just a tale of two kings
What are some parallels between ancient Babylon and the western culture that seek to hold us captive?
* Ah, two weeks ago I would have never dreamed that there were any parallels between the two but after a closer look there are.
Like Beth coined in her session The "Babylon Motto" could easily be "I am and there is none beside me."
Give me your beautiful, your smart and your young.
It's a daily fight to be smarter, more enchanting with our beauty as we struggle to fight to hold on to our youthful appearance.
Honestly, there are days when these world views seem to be winning.
Just turn on the t.v. and you are bombarded with messages that your not eating the right food, wearing the right clothes and your appearance..well, they can fix that too!
We are surrounded with over indulgence of choice and are self absorbed.
Trust me...saying that out loud is just as harsh as it is to read.
But it's true.
I am called to be set apart from the world...
"Oh Ancient of Days, reveal yourself and your son to me, powerfully, majestically and personally.
Grant me "the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that I may know him better" (Eph. 1:17)
You have trusted in your wickedness and have said, "No one sees me.'
Your wisdom and knowledge mislead you when you say to yourself,"I am, and there is none beside me."
Isaiah 47:10
God is serious when he say's "I'm not kidding".
God is faithful to keep His word even when it's a warning..
* Ah, two weeks ago I would have never dreamed that there were any parallels between the two but after a closer look there are.
Like Beth coined in her session The "Babylon Motto" could easily be "I am and there is none beside me."
Give me your beautiful, your smart and your young.
It's a daily fight to be smarter, more enchanting with our beauty as we struggle to fight to hold on to our youthful appearance.
Honestly, there are days when these world views seem to be winning.
Just turn on the t.v. and you are bombarded with messages that your not eating the right food, wearing the right clothes and your appearance..well, they can fix that too!
We are surrounded with over indulgence of choice and are self absorbed.
Trust me...saying that out loud is just as harsh as it is to read.
But it's true.
I am called to be set apart from the world...
"Oh Ancient of Days, reveal yourself and your son to me, powerfully, majestically and personally.
Grant me "the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that I may know him better" (Eph. 1:17)
You have trusted in your wickedness and have said, "No one sees me.'
Your wisdom and knowledge mislead you when you say to yourself,"I am, and there is none beside me."
Isaiah 47:10
God is serious when he say's "I'm not kidding".
God is faithful to keep His word even when it's a warning..
The start of of my amazing journey
That still small voice has been whispering to me for quite some time now that I am supposed to take this study.
There is a very important message and truth that I need to hear and remember.
Actually, all the girls in my table group wanted to start this study but things sort of got in our way.
gee...I wonder why?
There wasn't space at the church due to other program's...childcare was an issue.
Everything that would have stopped me and almost did but, I am going to be faith full and listen.
Hopefully the study will be offered in the fall but, I couldn't wait for the fall.
So, I am taking the study on my own.
I ordered the workbook from our church book store and I downloaded the first two sessions Beth Moore Daniel
Trust me on this one...When you do a Beth Moore study, you've really done a study!
Anyone interested in joining me on this amazing faith journey?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
