Resource Manager Posted January 1, 2017 Report Share Posted January 1, 2017 01 January 2017 Genesis 1; 2Psalms 1; 2Matthew 1; 2 "IN THE BEGINNING" The Bible begins with the above words. “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth”: a simple statement. No indication is given as to when this initial act of creation took place. It is regrettable that some read into these simple words more than they say. Some go on to claim, but this claim was only first made in the 20th Century, that everything was created just 6,000 years ago; but the Bible does not say this. After this initial mighty act of creation Genesis 1:2 tells us, “the earth was without form and void and darkness was on the face of the deep.” Following this situation we get a sequence of further creative events – but we are given no indication as to how long after. The first creative event is light – which came into being (as far as the earth was concerned) on the first day. Next, on the second day, came the separation of clouds (which are water vapour) from the waters – and other creative acts followed on the next 4 days. It is unwise to see the word ‘day” as always meaning 24 hours. Genesis 2:4 tells us, “these are the generations of the heavens and the earth when they were created, in the day that the LORD God made the heavens and the earth.” We have noted a lot of passages recently which speak of “the day of the LORD’ – but we do not see that as a day of just 24 hours. Genesis 1 is not a human scientific treatise, but a statement of facts in a very simple ancient language, a record that God caused to be written and preserved. We note how the words are very basic, a very limited vocabulary, we do not even have reference to the sun and moon, but only to a “greater light” and “lesser light” [Genesis 1:14]. Looking back to yesterday’s reading in Revelation 21 we are challenged as to what it means, “Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away” [Revelation 21:1]. God through the prophet Isaiah enlightens us as to its meaning. Through him God said of a time yet future, “behold I create new heavens and a new earth, the former things shall not be remembered or come into mind” [isaiah 65:17] The curse that came on the earth, because Adam and Eve did not believe that God meant what he said, will be removed. Life will be wonderfully different, probably as it was in the Garden of Eden, for “the wolf and the lamb shall graze together; and the lion will eat straw like the ox … they shall not hurt or destroy in all my holy mountain.” [isaiah 65:25] A new beginning! Will you be part of it?-------- DC Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted January 2, 2017 Author Report Share Posted January 2, 2017 02 January 2017 Genesis 3; 4Psalms 3; 4; 5Matthew 3; 4 “THE CHAFF HE WILL BURN” It is good to look for positive things as we read the Scriptures and we have them today in some of the verses in Psalm 4. David begins by requesting; “Answer me when I call, O God of my righteousness!” David says I “know that the LORD has set apart the godly for himself; the LORD hears when I call to him.” [Psalm 4:3] The Psalm ends with these stimulating words, “You have put more joy in my heart … In peace I will both lie down and sleep; for you alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety.” Then in Matthew 3 we read the words of John the Baptist, words of warning that are both appropriate for the Jews who rejected Jesus, and for almost the whole world today who have turned away from embracing the reality of God’s word – so wonderfully preserved for them. John preached – "I baptize you with water for repentance” but then warned of “he who is coming after me is mightier than I” [Matthew 3:11] whose objective was to “gather his wheat into the barn” but that which is not counted as “wheat” - is “the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire." History shows this is what happened – and this included the dramatic destruction of Jerusalem and its temple about AD 70. But let us recall what we read just 2 days ago, in the last chapter of the Old Testament. The LORD, through Malachi foretold of “the day is coming, burning like an oven, when all the arrogant and all evildoers will be stubble.” [Malachi 4:1] Stubble! That is, chaff, counted as useless by the Creator because they have turned their back on him, most concluding he does nor even exist! The next words are just as awesome! “The day that is coming shall set them ablaze, says the LORD of hosts, so that it will leave them neither root nor branch.” But then – there are wonderful words! “But for you who fear my name, the sun of righteousness shall rise with healing in its wings. You shall go out leaping like calves from the stall.” Let us “fear” God’s “name’ - and believe and sense “that the LORD has set apart the godly for himself” and that he hears when we “call to him” as we read in Psalm 4 and pray ” you alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety.” May we “call to him” more and more as our days threaten to burn more and more “like an oven.”-------- DC Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted January 3, 2017 Author Report Share Posted January 3, 2017 03 January 2017 Genesis 5; 6Psalms 6; 7; 8Matthew 5 “ACCORDING TO THE INTEGRITY THAT IS IN ME” What a challenging selection of chapters we have today! Our heading is taken from David’s Psalm 7: it is largely a prayer; can it be our prayer too!? “…judge me, O LORD, according to my righteousness and according to the integrity that is in me. Oh, let the evil of the wicked come to an end …” [Psalm 7:8-9] Can we, dare we, pray as David did? “… judge me, O LORD, according to my righteousness and according to the integrity that is in me” As we read on in the Psalms we see how David’s sense of his own righteousness changes. He desperately appeals to God. ”Hide your face from my sins, and blot out all my iniquities. Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from your presence” [Psalm 51:9-11] That last phrase is tremendously significant “Cast me not away from your presence”. We perceive David’s heart-felt sense of wonder of the “presence” of God. We marvel at the way Paul must have developed, through experience, that sense so that he could tell the people of Athens (and us) “he is actually not far from each one of us, for 'In him we live and move and have our being' “ [Acts 17:27-28] We also read today in Genesis 6 of the days of Noah - the time when, “The LORD saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every intention of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.” [Genesis 6:5] and “the earth was corrupt in God’s sight.” [Genesis 6:11] We note that it was corrupt “in God’s sight.” Have we developed “God’s sight” through our constant reading of his word? We should! As we continue our reading in Matthew this month we will see the words of Jesus about “the days of Noah” [Matthew 24:37] that - as it was in Noah’s days, “so will be the coming of the Son of Man ... For as in those days before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day when Noah entered the ark, and they were unaware until ...” So our minds go back to the words of David let us believe and live in ways of “integrity” which show the reality of our belief in the reality of God and the reality of what we read - every day - in His word.-------- DC Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted January 4, 2017 Author Report Share Posted January 4, 2017 04 January 2017 Genesis 7; 8Psalms 9; 10Matthew 6 “ARISE O LORD! LET NOT MAN PREVAIL.” Our daily readings today provide us with many thoughts – and meditations. David’s Psalms are, in most cases, prayers – and how appropriate are some of them for us in 2017 - especially the final verses of Psalm 9. “Arise, O LORD! Let not man prevail; let the nations be judged before you! Put them in fear, O LORD! Let the nations know that they are but men!” Then we look at our first reading! How totally awesome was God’s judgement on humans – God wiped all except Noah and his family, but thankfully the record then tells us that “the LORD said in his heart, "I will never again curse the ground because of man, for the intention of man's heart is evil from his youth. Neither will I ever again strike down every living creature …” [Genesis 8:21] How reassuring to have this promise as our world in 2017 is so comparable to Noah’s days. As we read on in Matthew’s gospel this month we will encounter an awesome prophecy by our Lord about the attitudes that will have developed on earth at the time of his return. We read in Matthew 24, “For as were the days of Noah, so will be the coming of the Son of Man. For as in those days before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day when Noah entered the ark, and they were unaware until the flood came and swept them all away, so will be the coming of the Son of Man.” [Matthew 24:37-39] Jesus then goes on to ask, “Who then is the faithful and wise servant ... Blessed is that servant whom his master will find so doing when he comes. Truly, I say to you, he will set him over all his possessions.” May we all be “faithful and wise” as we pray ever more earnestly, with David, “Arise, O LORD! Let not man prevail” … Put them in fear, O LORD!” Finally, back in today’s chapter, Matthew 6, we embrace in our heart the words of Jesus telling us to “seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness …” [Matthew 6:33] and then the “master … will set (us) over all his possessions.”-------- DC Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted January 5, 2017 Author Report Share Posted January 5, 2017 05 January 2017 Genesis 9; 10Psalms 11; 12; 13Matthew 7 “THE FLOODS CAME, AND THE WINDS BLEW …” Today we have the ‘simple’ lessons Jesus taught – they are lessons of life – or death – of eternal existence – or oblivion, in an eternal sense – these are the only 2 alternatives before each of us. Matthew 7 opens out to us the simple but profound teaching of Jesus on the pathways of life that lay before each one of us. Are we building our ways of life on the rock of Truth – or on the shifting sands of human opinion and resultant behaviour? Jesus said, “everyone who hears these words of mine” (or reads them, hears them read) “and does not do them …” Well, his life is built on sand – and when God acts, says Jesus in this parable “the rain (of his judgements will come) and beat against that house, and it fell, and great was the fall of it." [Matthew 7:26-27] How awesome will be the “wind” and the floods” that the Creator will bring – soon – on our increasingly godless world! Let us remember – clearly – the words we read in Hebrews last month. What a grim and blunt warning it was! “If we go on sinning deliberately after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, but a fearful expectation of judgment, and a fury of fire …” [Hebrews 10:26-27] Let us live more and more in ways which show our faith – and our expectation of divine deliverance – and then what spiritual strength we will develop. Then, as a result the words of Jesus we will read in Matthew 24 will apply to us – as we sense the climax is near. In Matthew 24:13 we read, “But the one who endures to the end will be saved” and in Matthew 24:22, “for the sake of the elect those days will be cut short.” May our faith become so strong that we will be counted as being among “the elect” as, the fearsome winds of God’s judgments blow and we see “the floods” of his anger starting to spread over the world more and more.-------- DC Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted January 7, 2017 Author Report Share Posted January 7, 2017 06 January 2017 Genesis 11; 12Psalm 14; 15; 16Matthew 8 “NOTHING WILL NOW BE IMPOSSIBLE” In Genesis 11 we read, “now the whole earth had one language and the same words” [Genesis 11:1] and they decided to “build ourselves a city and a tower … lest we be dispersed over the face of the whole earth” [Genesis 11:4] The text then goes on to say that the LORD came down to see this and said, “Behold the people are one people, and they have all one language and this is only the beginning of what they will do. And nothing that they propose to do will now be impossible for them.” [Genesis 11:6] So the LORD confused the languages so that they could not understand one another. It is most interesting that the Hebrew word for confused sounds like Babel (ESV footnote) and the Greek word for Babel is Babylon. Now, as we have seen in Revelation, Babylon is the key word used to symbolise an evil power. It has also been noted that the Name of God is very similar in many languages, indicating a common origin for this fundamental word. Reflect on what God said; that having a common language is “only the beginning of what they will do.” Now, in our 21st Century, the world is extensively overcoming the language barriers. The Internet provides automated translations, also education is world-wide and some people in every country can speak English: when I was in Russia all the young people at the Bible School appeared to be able to do this to some degree. Another thought, just before the flood, “the wickedness of man was great … every intention of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually” [Genesis 6:5]. In other words, all consciousness and awe of God had disappeared from their minds. It will be therefore natural to expect God to act again – and the Bible plainly says this, as we have noted previously, in the records of the teaching of Jesus and his followers. Do you remember the news a few years ago about the ridiculously high tower in Dubai, it is 860 metres tall - a modern tower of Babel - and we have heard the comment that it was built near a fault line! Such locations are more prone to earthquakes. Note the prophecy in Isaiah 2:15 that “every high tower shall fall” at the time of God’s judgements? Our Psalm reading says, “The fool says in his heart. ‘There is no God.’” They are corrupt, they do abominable deeds … The LORD looks down from heaven … to see if there are any who understand, who seek after God. [Psalm 14:1-2] I pray he sees me, can you pray that he sees you? We pray he will take care of us as he unfolds his righteous anger on our godless world: look ahead to Matthew 13:41,43. For the Creator the “impossible” will become normal.-------- DC Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted January 7, 2017 Author Report Share Posted January 7, 2017 07 January 2017 Genesis 13; 14Psalms 17Matthew 9 “INCLINE YOUR EAR TO ME … WONDROUSLY SHOW …” How wonderful was the relationship David developed with God; as we meditate on his Psalms they “move” our hearts to develop profound meditations - to contemplate all that our Heavenly Father must be – and the wonder of His Son – our mediator – at His right hand. Today’s Psalm 17 is a very personal prayer/petition of David, “You have tried my heart, you have visited me by night, you have tested me, and you will find nothing; I have purposed that my mouth will not transgress.” [Psalm 17:3] When our Lord tries our hearts – what does he find? May we be able say with David, “My steps have held fast to your paths; my feet have not slipped … incline your ear to me …” [Psalm 17:5-6] “Wondrously show your steadfast love, O Saviour of those who seek refuge…at your right hand.” [Psalm 17:7] Surely David sensed in some way how his greater Son would be at God’s right hand. In Matthew 7 today we read how “two blind men followed Jesus, crying aloud, ‘Have mercy on us, Son of David.’” [Matthew 9:27]. They were healed because they knew what the Pharisees refused to recognise – that Jesus was the promised “Son of David.” Jesus, “touched their eyes, saying, ‘According to your faith be it done to you.’” [Matthew 9:29] And it will be “according to our faith” that salvation will come us – because we have inclined our eyes to read – and our hearts and minds absorb, as David prayed, “wondrous things out of your law.” [Psalm 119:18] What a wondrous future awaits us! And how soon now?-------- DC Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted January 8, 2017 Author Report Share Posted January 8, 2017 08 January 2017 Genesis 15; 16Psalms 18Matthew 10 “THE WORD OF THE LORD PROVES TRUE” In Psalm 18 we encounter a major psalm of David in which he surveys all the ways in which the LORD was overseeing his life. God is his rock, his place of refuge [Psalm 18:2]. He writes that the LORD has dealt with him according to his righteousness “according to the cleanness of my hands he rewarded me” [Psalm 18:20] This causes us to evaluate the ‘cause and effect’ principle in our relationship with God. We have observed more than once that difficulties can enter a person’s life, although he or she does not, in effect, deserve it. Job’s life is a classic case, but there are many other examples. David himself experienced this after he had slain Goliath and was exalted in the sight of the nation – but then suffered much trouble because of the jealousy of Saul. So what did David mean when he wrote that the Lord rewarded me because of “the cleanness of my hands”? This perception of David is so significant that he repeats it, and we notice the context, “I was blameless before him and I kept myself from my guilt. So the LORD has rewarded me according to my righteousness, according to the cleanness of my hands in his sight.” [Psalm 18:23-24]. There is a present tense here, the reward has been received, David Has developed a wonderful relationship with God – in his heart! We tend to look only to the future as the time of reward, as we read last week in Revelation 22:12 about how Jesus, at his return will reward (repay) everyone for what they have done. So David, despite all the troubles Saul created for him, as the introduction to this Psalm comments, is extremely conscious of the present reward of God’s guiding care. “With the merciful you show yourself merciful … but the haughty eyes you bring down” [Psalm 18:25, 27] “The word of the LORD proves true; he is a shield for all those who take refuge in him” [Psalm 18:30] When he says of God “you equipped me with strength for the battle” [Psalm 18:39], true followers of Christ can see this as meaning a different kind of battle. The Apostle Paul says “we are not waging war according to the flesh … We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God and take every (human) thought captive to obey Christ” [2 Corinthians 10:3,5]. And to the Thessalonians he wrote, “the word of God, which is at work in you believers” [1 Thessalonians 2:13] Our regular meditative reading of the Bible is an essential ingredient in each of our lives to enable God and Christ to work in us to achieve this present reward.-------- DC Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted January 9, 2017 Author Report Share Posted January 9, 2017 09 January 2017 Genesis 17; 18Psalms 19; 20; 21Matthew 11 “THIS GENERATION” Jesus said, “to what shall I liken this generation?” [Matthew 11:16] Each generation has had those who search for answers as to the meaning of life. John the Baptist, shut up in prison appears to have wanted reassurance when he sent his disciples to Jesus, asking, are you really the one? Notice how Jesus never gives plain ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ answers, the response was to say look at what is happening and consider that in light of what God revealed through the prophets. [Matthew 11:2-6] Those with their own agenda of thoughts were offended at him. We read today in Genesis of Abraham’s conversation with the angel of the LORD about Sodom [Genesis 18] who said, “because the outcry against Sodom and Gomorrah is great and their sin very grave, I will go down to see whether they have done altogether according to the outcry that has come to me” [Genesis 18:21] Abraham obtains a promise that if 10 righteous are found there he would not destroy the city. But only 3 were saved! Tragic! As today, sexual perversions were a dominant factor; that generation, like ours, had its thoughts directed to the things of the flesh. We notice how Jesus, in today’s chapter, mentions Sodom, saying [Matthew 11:22] that if the amazing miracles that the people of Capernaum were seeing had been done in Sodom they would have responded and it would not have been destroyed. He adds, “I tell you that it will be more tolerable on the day of judgement for the land of Sodom than for you” [Matthew 11:24] This is telling us that in the day of judgement it will not be a case of getting a high enough mark , like you need to go to University, but of God seeing how you have responded according to the evidence available to you. No one will “earn” a place in God’s Kingdom. The cities in which Jesus did his miracles failed the test [Matthew 11:20-21]. But everyone on that day will need the mercy and grace of our judge, for he will see the real motivations of our heart against the background of the circumstances in which we have lived. So what did Jesus say about “this generation” as to what he should compare it to? We read this in Matthew 11:16-19. They were like children at play who refused to grow up, wilfully misinterpreting the actions of Jesus, saying he was “a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners” So what would he say of today’s generation? The world today has discovered far more of the absolute wonders of creation but refuse to face the obvious meaning of the evidence. Nearly all are like the generation Jesus talked to, they refuse to face the evidence. In addition, today we have God’s word, the Bible, freely available in every language. This is a blessing so many scorn, just as they scorned the work and teaching of Jesus nearly 2,000 years ago: may all who read this – prove to be the exception.-------- DC Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted January 11, 2017 Author Report Share Posted January 11, 2017 10 January 2017 Genesis 19Psalms 22Matthew 12 “SCORNED BY MANKIND” What fascinating thought challenging readings we have today! First, in Genesis we have the judgement of the Creator on the godlessness of Sodom and Gomorrah and how God sent angels to deliver Lot, his wife and family. We read how his sons-in-law scoffed and his wife lingered, her faith was inadequate. Our thoughts go back to the verses in the 2 Peter 2 we read last month that “Sodom and Gomorrah” were “condemned … to extinction, making them an example of what is going to happen to the ungodly” but God “rescued righteous Lot, greatly distressed by the sensual conduct of the wicked.” [2 Peter 2:6-7] Do you recall what we read in Matthew 11 yesterday? The people of Capernaum were seeing remarkable miracles by Jesus, and he tells them, “if the mighty works done in you had been done in Sodom, it would have remained until this day.” [Matthew 11:23] And today, the world is conscious of the incredible natural world that surrounds them and how it all fits in to wonderfully operate together. But nearly all blindfold their minds into believing it all happened by chance; that there is no Creator. But we read today that Jesus said, “whoever speaks against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven, either in this age or in the age to come.” [Matthew 12:32] What wonders has Go’s Spirit power created everywhere humans look! We also read David’s remarkable Psalm 22. We do not know what challenging circumstances caused him to pen these words, but the historic records describe situations in which they could have occurred as King Saul hunted to try to find him. In some particularly stressful situation David struggles to find and re-establish the relationship he surely had with God went he went out to meet Goliath. In this Psalm he reflects on how “our fathers trusted …. and you delivered them. To you they cried and were rescued; in you they trusted and were not put to shame.” [Psalm 22:4-5] But David is overcome by some circumstances that now surrounded him, is depressed and says, “But I am a worm and not a man, scorned by mankind and despised by the people. All who see me mock me; they make mouths at me; they wag their heads; He trusts in the LORD; let him deliver him” [Psalm 22:6-8] In reading these words we see how this part of the Psalm is a remarkable prophecy of the events surrounding the sacrifice of our Lord. This led us to recall what we read in Revelation last month and the promise of Jesus, “Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life.” [Revelation 2:10] And what wonders that “crown” will embrace! Finally, note what David now writes, “those who seek him shall praise the LORD! May your hearts live forever! All the ends of the earth shall remember and turn to the LORD, and all the families of the nations shall worship before you. For kingship belongs to the LORD, and he rules over the nations.” [Psalm 22:26-28] David’s faith and those who also hold it are often “scorned by mankind” today but we must hold fast and then we will surely be there!-------- DC Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted January 11, 2017 Author Report Share Posted January 11, 2017 11 January 2017 Genesis 20; 21Psalms 23; 24; 25Matthew 13 “ALL THE DAYS OF MY LIFE AND …” What is really so special about Psalm 23? There are several popular hymns based on its words. Are these just words? God’s words need to ‘live’ in our heart – not just go in one ear and out the other, as the saying is. In today’s non-stop world, that happens all too easily. Its’ words should, indeed must encourage a peace of mind that is a rare blessing today! “The LORD is my shepherd!” Have you ever thought that Jesus would have seen his Father as his shepherd and what these words would have meant to him? The LORD shepherded David throughout his life, he “put away” his sin with Bathsheba and Uriah even before he asked, because he knew the overall condition of David’s heart. A good sheep is ever listening for his shepherd’s call. If the sheep are genuinely listening for the shepherd’s voice they will never be in dire need, there will be still waters - and when life gets difficult the shepherd will be there to see to their restoration. Of course the need for restoration indicates some difficult or even desperate situation when the sheep might, for a moment; cry out, “My God why have you forsaken me?” We read this at the start of yesterday’s Psalm 22. This surely indicates David had some moment of desperation – before his greater son used those words and then gave the climaxing cry, “It is finished” [John 19:30] “He leads me in the paths of righteousness for his names sake” [Psalm 23:3] Notice it is “for his name’s sake”- it is because we bear his name, we belong to him, if we have taken on his name in baptism we already “dwell” within the embrace of his loving care. Do we sometimes become blind to this? “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death I will fear no evil for you are with me” [Psalm 23:4] There are few if any who have not experienced “valleys” – but it is the valleys that help us to appreciate the high hills and the vision they give to us. Life that is lived on a flat plain provides no vision. What are the “rod and staff” that comfort us? They are symbols, we suggest, of strength and support; and the control (when needed) possessed and given by the shepherd. How marvellous is the vision of the last verse, “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever”-------- DC Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted January 14, 2017 Author Report Share Posted January 14, 2017 12 January 2017 Genesis 22; 23Psalms 26; 27; 28Matthew 14 “AND HE COUNTED IT TO HIM FOR RIGHTEOUSNESS” Today we have read that significant chapter in Genesis [Genesis 22] in which Abraham obeys the LORD by being prepared – without hesitation – to offer his son Isaac as a sacrifice. The progressive tests of faith which Abraham “passed” resulted in ever greater promises being made to him. Did you notice how, the very first time God makes a promise to him, it is “I will make of you a great nation” [Genesis 12:3] and “in you all the families of the earth will be blessed.” They started as families and developed into nations. Remember Abraham lived at a time when they lived longer lives than now; some family groups would have been extensive. It is not until Abraham had shown his faith by leaving all behind to travel to an unknown land that God extended his promise to include his “offspring” [Genesis 12:7] Then, after he has built an altar to the LORD and travelled to Egypt and back gaining wealth and prestige and had separated from Lot that the promise is extended to him “forever” and told he will have descendants as innumerable as the sand. [Genesis 13:15-16] Abraham then receives a vision from God in the night, and is now told his descendants will be as innumerable as the stars (this signifies, we suspect, spiritual descendants). There is a significant verse, “And he believed the LORD and he counted it to him for righteousness” [Genesis 15:6] But, of course, he had believed him before! However, this is the ultimate, the far reaching, challenge of belief. It is our challenge to! At the age of 99 his name is changed from Abram to Abraham with all the significance of what that means [Genesis 17:5-8] and “an everlasting covenant” is established. Then, the events we read of today happen - and almost 40 years have elapsed since God first revealed himself to Abram in Ur. God sees Abraham as now being ready for the ultimate test of faith. Notice the final promises that are then made, “your offspring shall possess the gate of his enemies and in your offspring shall all the nations of the earth be blessed, because you have obeyed my voice” [Genesis 22:17-18] How significant the words of Jesus, “Abraham rejoiced that he would see my day. He saw it and was glad” [John 8:56]. Let us share Abraham’s vision and also be glad. We must experience our own journey of faith – and it will be “counted” to us “for righteousness.”-------- DC Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted January 14, 2017 Author Report Share Posted January 14, 2017 13 January 2017 Genesis 24Psalms 29; 30Matthew 15 "THE VOICE OF THE LORD" The sevenfold occurrence of the phrase “the voice of the LORD” in today’s Psalm [Psalm 29] intrigued us. Then when we came to the Matthew reading, the words of Isaiah Jesus quoted caught our attention, “This people honours me with their lips but their heart is far from me” [Matthew 15:8]. The contrast between God’s “voice” and man’s could not be greater. What is the nature of the LORD’s “voice”? The description of that voice given in the Psalm reminded us of the saying that actions speak louder than words! The point is that God’s “voice” is heard through his actions – except by those with whom he seeks to have a special relationship – then it can be “a still small voice” (or ‘the sound of a low whisper’ -1 Kings 19:12) as Elijah heard in the cave. To godless men God “speaks” through his actions; this is the point David is making. At the time of Noah’s flood “the voice of the LORD is over the waters” [Psalm 29:3] When the fearful people of Israel were at the foot of Mount Sinai, “the voice of the LORD is powerful” [Psalm 29:4] In the ultimate future, “the voice of the LORD is full of majesty” [Psalm 29:4] There was a preview of this when, after Solomon dedicated the Temple, “the priest could not enter the house … because the glory of the LORD filled the LORD’s house” [2 Chronicles 7:2-3] “The voice of the LORD breaks the cedars” [Psalm 29:5]!? This takes our thoughts to Isaiah 2 and its dramatic picture of events before the Kingdom is established [isaiah 2:2-4] “For the LORD of hosts has a day against all that is proud … against all the cedars … against every high tower … and the haughtiness of man shall be humbled … and the LORD alone will be exalted in that day.” [isaiah 2:12,13,15,17] Great quantities of cedar were brought to Jerusalem to build the Temple; it was a most prized wood, but God brought destruction on that temple because the hearts of those worshipping there became far from him. The word translated “voice” is the simple Hebrew word qol. Young shows it occurs almost 500 times in the Old Testament, but what intrigued us was its very first occurrence. A situation impossible to picture in our minds! “And they heard the sound (AV has ‘voice’) of the LORD God walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and (Adam & Eve) hid themselves” [Genesis 3:8]. There will come a time, we read in Revelation 21:3 just 2 weeks ago, when “the dwelling place of God is with men. He will dwell with them …” Those privileged to be there will have no need to hide when they hear “the voice of the LORD” Those there will honour the Lord with their lips – and with all their hearts. How unbelievably wonderful! Can you imagine it? Can you imagine being there?-------- DC Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted January 14, 2017 Author Report Share Posted January 14, 2017 14 January 2017 Genesis 25; 26Psalms 31Matthew 16 “BE STRONG AND LET YOUR HEART TAKE COURAGE” How stimulating for us in today’s godless world is the attitude David reveals in today’s Psalm 31. David has had a time of depression – and have not we all had times (hopefully very few and brief) when we feel somewhat overwhelmed by our immediate circumstances – and even more - by the challenges in the world today!? It is then that we struggle to think – and therefore act – positively. David writes, “I hear the whispering of many terror on every side!” [Psalm 31:13]. It seems likely, if not certain, that our world is going to experience something similar! How are we coping with the godless distractions of which our world abounds at the moment? How close are we to “that day”? It appears it could be very near to when the world reals in astonishment to realize there really is a God – and, what’s more, one who sees and knows all! He has the overall control of events – and many are now receiving what they deserve! Jesus tells his disciples (and that must surely include us) “"But watch yourselves lest your hearts be weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and cares of this life, and that day come upon you suddenly like a trap.” [Luke 21:34] So, just as important, if not more so, we must “watch ourselves”. God’s great day of action – when he deals with our world – will come “like a trap” and utterly astonish the whole world – except true dedicated believers. Let us develop the faith of David and declare – “But I trust in you, O LORD; I say, ‘You are my God.’ My times are in your hand …. Make your face shine on your servant; save me in your steadfast love!” [Psalm 31:15-16] We look ahead to David’s Psalm 67 – how inspiring is that to us in 2017! David wrote in that Psalm, “May God be gracious to us and bless us and make his face to shine upon us, that your way may be known on earth, your saving power among all nations … guide the nations … let all the ends of the earth fear him!” [Psalm 67:1,2,4,7] Let us fully believe this so that we will, as today’s Psalm ends, “Be strong, and let your heart take courage, all you who wait for the LORD! Let us be so committed that we truly “wait for the LORD.”-------- DC Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted January 15, 2017 Author Report Share Posted January 15, 2017 15 January 2017 Genesis 27Psalms 32Matthew 17 “BLESSED IS THE MAN AGAINST WHOM THE LORD COUNTS NO INIQUITY” Today’s Psalm 32 is one of the most meaningful and personal of all the Psalms. Just 11 verses; it is a good one to memorize. It commences, “Blessed is the one whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered. Blessed is the man (or woman) against whom the LORD counts no iniquity” We must also note the significant added comment, “and in whose spirit there is no deceit.” What David realises – there is a need to be totally honest with ourselves and with God if our sins are to be “covered” – that is blotted out – through the mercy and love of the LORD. This Psalm is structured in a fascinating way – in 4 parts. Psalm 32:1-2 pinpoints the “blessed” state of the one whose transgression the LORD forgives. Then Psalm 32:3-7 is David’s personal petition as a sinner himself; times of total weakness; occasions of the agony of feeling separated from God – followed by the wonder of reconciliation. This sequence of experiences results in David’s and our vision of the LORD as “a hiding place for me” - a place of protection that is only as real as the reality of our spiritual vision. A vision that is more and more essential in today’s altogether evil world – an experience Noah achieved. Psalm 32:6-7 is remarkable! David receives a personal message from God, a reply as it were - and writes it down. God says, “I will instruct you … I will counsel you with my eye upon you.” Do we sense God’s “eye” being upon us? If we do not -“it will not stay near you.” The final two verses sum up the situation and what the attitude should be of “the one who trusts in the LORD” and aims to be “upright in heart” [Psalm 32:10-11]. Get out your Bible and read these 11 verses slowly and reflectively, the four sections will be evident to you. Think of what your life means to God – and what He means to you “and shout for joy, all you upright in heart.”-------- DC Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted January 17, 2017 Author Report Share Posted January 17, 2017 16 January 2017 Genesis 28; 29Psalms 33Matthew 18 “FORGIVE … FROM YOUR HEART” The message that jumps out of all 3 Bible Readings today is how God can react to our attitudes. In Genesis Jacob married both Leah and Rachel, the daughters of Laban, but Rachel he loved and Leah he hated. God reacted, “When the LORD saw that Leah was hated he opened her womb, but Rachel was barren” [Genesis 29:31] God reacts to the attitudes of those who seek to serve him, also to those who do not! In Psalm 33:10 we read, “The LORD brings the counsel of the nations to nothing; he frustrates the plans of the peoples.” The outcome of the big gathering and talkfest in Copenhagen was a good illustration of this. Also in this Psalm we read, “Behold, the eye of the LORD is on those who fear him, on those who hope in his steadfast love.” [Psalm 33:18] The teaching of Jesus in Matthew 18 also illustrates the same lesson. Jesus reacts strongly when his disciples ask him, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” [Matthew 18:1] and sets a child in their midst and says a child-like attitude is essential, telling the disciples “unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom …” [Matthew 18:3] The chapter finishes with a parable about a king who set out to settle accounts with servants who owed him money. He is willing to forgive one who is deeply in debt, but when it was reported that this servant did not have a forgiving attitude toward a fellow servant who owed him a little money, the King was angry with that servant and delivered him to the jailers. The chapter ends with Jesus saying, “So also my heavenly Father will do to every one of you, if you do not forgive your brother from your heart.” We must note those last 3 words in our hearts.-------- DC Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted January 17, 2017 Author Report Share Posted January 17, 2017 17 January 2017 Genesis 30Psalms 34Matthew 19 “OH, TASTE AND SEE THAT THE LORD IS GOOD” Psalm 34 today is wonderfully spiritually stimulating; it is one to be memorised, at least in part. “Oh, fear the LORD, you his saints, for those who fear him have no lack!” [Psalm 34:9] David can write this from his own experience - he is one of the primary example to us that the scriptures record. David also said, “Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good! Blessed is the man (or woman) who takes refuge in him!” To “taste” is to personally venture to experience – a little – and having tasted – to eat and enjoy! Let us meditate on the spiritual application. It is sad to see some apparently satisfied by a little tasting, but that is not enough for us “to take refuge” in him when our godless world really starts to fall apart! When Paul visited Athens he told them about “the unknown God” to whom they had made “an altar.” [Acts 17:23] telling them, “they should seek God, and perhaps feel their way toward him and find him. Yet he is actually not far from each one of us, for "'In him we live and move and have our being' “ [Acts 17:27-28] It is clear that David – wonderfully – discovered this wondrous truth, this reality! And us? Back in our Psalm we must ‘absorb’ David’s perception of the unseen! Are we developing his vision? “The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear him, and delivers them.” [Psalm 34:7] We must deeply [ponder how all who are alive as our Lord “descends from heaven with a shout” will need this vision – for it is a vision that will be turned into reality at that awesome time. How soon now? David perceived, from experience that “The eyes of the LORD are toward the righteous and his ears toward their cry ... When the righteous cry for help, the LORD hears and delivers them out of all their troubles." [Psalm 34:15,17] Consider his state of mind as he went out to meet Goliath! What troubles our world will soon experience! Paul told the Thessalonians (and us) “the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel … And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them … to meet the Lord” [1 Thessalonians 4:16-17]. This will be the most wonderful time when the faithful will dramatically “taste and see that the LORD is good!” Will we be there? ‘We make the answer now!’-------- DC Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted January 19, 2017 Author Report Share Posted January 19, 2017 18 January 2017 Genesis 31Psalms 35Matthew 20 “GREAT IS THE LORD WHO DELIGHTS IN …” David’s Psalm 35, we read today, comes to a most interesting climax. We read, "Great is the LORD, who delights in the welfare of his servant!" And what is David’s reaction to sensing the LORD’s delight in him? “Then my tongue shall tell of your righteousness and of your praise all the day long.” [last verse] Do we adequately express our appreciation of all the blessings we have received in our lives? Let us see the words of Psalm 35:27 as a ‘picture’ of the rejoicing (our rejoicing!) in the kingdom age. “Let those who delight in my righteousness shout for joy and be glad and say evermore, "Great is the LORD, who delights in the welfare of his servant!" It is beyond our present vision to imagine the life of the redeemed in the kingdom: but David is inspired to visualize it – and what he – and they – will say for “evermore.” Our thoughts now go to the response of Jesus to the mother of James and John we also read this morning. She asked Jesus, "Say that these two sons of mine are to sit, one at your right hand and one at your left, in your kingdom." [Matthew 20:21] Jesus told her, "You do not know what you are asking.” Jesus then told her – and her two sons - "You will drink my cup, but to sit at my right hand and at my left is not mine to grant, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared by my Father." [Matthew 20:23] We read yesterday the promises of Jesus to his disciples, "Truly, I say to you, in the new world, when the Son of Man will sit on his glorious throne, you who have followed me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.” [Matthew 19:28] And now our thoughts go back to David – and the wonder of being able to say for “evermore, "Great is the LORD.” When we come to David’s Psalm 84 may we ‘absorb’ his state of mind in writing – “… a day in your courts is better than a thousand elsewhere. I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God…” [Psalm 84:10] A thousand! The promise of Jesus in Revelation 20 comes to mind, of those who “will be priests of God and of Christ, and they will reign with him for a thousand years.” [Revelation 20:6] A final thought is – how wonderful to “be a doorkeeper in the house of … God” – imagine the experiences, those one would see – what delights will be experienced!-------- DC Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted January 19, 2017 Author Report Share Posted January 19, 2017 19 January 2017 Genesis 32; 33Psalms 36Matthew 21 “THEY WERE INDIGNANT” Today’s chapter, Matthew 21, is full of drama and thought-challenging incidents. The opposition to Jesus caused by his popularity had reached fever pitch. The religious leaders were afraid to take any action against him because his popularity had become so intense. We read of his triumphal entry into Jerusalem, “the crowds that went before him and that followed after were shouting ‘Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!’” [Matthew 21:9-10] Jesus then enters the temple (where the religious leaders normally reign supreme) “and drives out all who bought and sold in the temple. Jesus denounces them, “… you make it (the Temple) a den of robbers.” [Matthew 21:12-13]. Next, “the blind and the lame came to him in the temple and he healed them.” Drama upon drama, “but when the chief priests and the scribes saw the wonderful things that he did they were indignant” [Matthew 21:15] Their spiritual blindness had become absolute, they were so sure that they knew all the answers, their mindset had created total spiritual darkness. Two particular thoughts occurred to us from this incident. Firstly, there are mindsets today: there is the total conviction that there is no God, that everything that exists sort of created itself, even though ever more remarkable things have been uncovered in research by the men of science, making it impossible, it seems to us, for the rational thinking mind to even start to think there was no creative Master Mind behind it all. Yet when we affirm there must be because of the vast array of evidence of most marvellous design – the atheist is indignant just as the High Priests were. The second thought is, as we shall read in the next day or two; how fickle human attitudes are that have no depth to their understanding or belief, convictions are shallow – they are seen to be worthless.. Many of those who joined in the shouts of ‘Hosanna’ were soon to be persuaded to cry ‘Crucify Him’! So we must earnestly ask ourselves, how deep is my own conviction? Are we affected to some degree, however slight,, by those who scoff at our faith and are “indignant" when we try talk to them about it. Are we earnest - in creating within ourselves “the full assurance of hope and faith"? Read Hebrews 6:11; 10:22. -------- DC Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted January 21, 2017 Author Report Share Posted January 21, 2017 20 January 2017 Genesis 34; 35Psalms 37Matthew 22 “BE NOT ENVIOUS” The world today concentrates an enormous amount on marketing goods and services: the internet, radio, TV, newspapers and magazines are full of promoting one kind of thing or another. A fundamental aim is to make people envious of what other people have or experience so that they want it themselves! Do we feel envious at times? David’s Psalm [Psalm 37] today is very special. David is full of spiritual advice to those who aim to live in a godly way among the attitudes in the world of 2017. David says, “I have been young and now I am old” [Psalm 37:25], so these are words of reflection in the latter end of his life. David starts by saying [Psalm 37:1] “be not envious of wrongdoers” because they, like the grass, have no future. In another Psalm we will read, “I was envious of the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked” [Psalm 73:3] But it is not just a matter of avoiding doing wrong, or of not being envious of the successful. Positive thoughts and attitudes must be developed! We now turn to note what David says in today’s Psalm, “Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him; fret not yourself over the one who prospers in his way” [Psalm 37:7] It is a real challenge to “be still” in that sense – in a world that is so active in experiencing and aiming to do everything possible that seems to be within their reach – most unwisely so in many cases! Those who are now old think this is a crazy world, but very few of the young see it this way. David sees a time when “the meek shall inherit the land and delight themselves in abundant peace” [Psalm 37:11] Our Lord Jesus repeats this and applies it to inheriting the entire earth! [Matthew 5:5] David says, “the Lord laughs (mocks) at the wicked for he sees that his day is coming” [Psalm 37:13]. Finally we note Psalm 37:30-31, “The mouth of the righteous utters wisdom and his tongue speaks justice. The law of his God is in his heart; his steps do not slip.” This means – for sure – that he or she is “not envious.” We lay the foundation for this kind of thinking and living by daily reading the word of God, and really thinking about what we read.-------- DC Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted January 21, 2017 Author Report Share Posted January 21, 2017 21 January 2017 Genesis 36Psalms 38Matthew 23 "THEY DO ALL THEIR DEEDS TO BE SEEN BY OTHERS” In our chapter today [Matthew 23], Jesus totally directs his comments against the attitudes displayed by the religious leaders. They see him as a rival! He is now in Jerusalem; the climax of his first coming is now just a few days away. In one sense he is stirring up the opposition so that they will seek more than ever a means of getting rid of him. We take note of the particular points of his criticism of them, these men who should be the spiritual leaders of God’s own people. He says of them, “they do all their deeds to be seen by others” [Matthew 23:5]. They were totally oblivious to the all seeing eye of God; that he could see and know not only what they were doing, but also what they were thinking! Jesus, through the power of God, knew their hearts, their motives – and we must always be conscious that he knows ours. He said of them, “They love the places of honour at feasts and the best seats in the synagogues and greetings in the market places and being called rabbi …” [Matthew 23:6-7] Then Jesus draws lessons for his disciples, “you are not to be called rabbi” (which means teacher) … call no man your father on earth” [Matthew 23:8-9] This is obviously meant in a spiritual sense, but centuries later it began to happen. “The greatest among you shall be your servant” [Matthew 23:11] and Jesus shortly after demonstrated his servant role when he washed their feet.” [John 13:1-20]. Then Jesus points to the kingdom age, “whoever humbles himself will be exalted” [Matthew 23:12]. It is interesting that we then encounter a series of seven statements. Seven times Jesus says to the Scribes and Pharisees, “Woe to you”! We can imagine their indignations at being told, “you are like whitewashed tombs, which outwardly appear beautiful, but within are full of dead people’s bones and uncleanness.” [Matthew 23:27] He explains his meaning, “So you outwardly appear righteous to others but within you are full of hypocrisy…” What he said was sadly, very true, “they do all their deeds to be seen by others” [Matthew 23:5]. Now the reason we aim to read God’s word every day is to protect ourselves from developing the same problem. That is the point that is made in Hebrews 4. Let’s memorise what we read from Hebrews 4:12. “For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two edged sword … discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart”. Let us make sure, as we read God’s word every day that we digest in our hearts what we read.-------- DC Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted January 22, 2017 Author Report Share Posted January 22, 2017 22 January 2017 Genesis 37Psalms 39; 40Matthew 24 SUN, MOON AND STARS In both our Genesis and Matthew readings today we have reference to the sun, moon and stars – and in neither case are they to be understood in a literal sense. The context makes this evident. In Genesis Joseph has a dream and tells his parents and brothers about it. “Behold I have dreamed a dream. Behold the sun, the moon, and eleven stars were bowing down to me” [Genesis 37:9] His father has no doubt as to what the dream symbolises and says, “ ‘Shall I and your mother and your brothers indeed come to bow ourselves to the ground before you?’ And his brothers were jealous of him, but his father kept the saying in mind” [Genesis 37:10-11]. Our minds move forward to the time of Mary and how she kept the sayings about Jesus in mind in her heart. [Luke 2:19,51] The jealousy of Joseph’s brothers is the trigger that creates a sequence of events that leads to the fulfilment of this dream – this is yet another example of how God weaves in the actions prompted by human nature, to bring about his purpose. It is also the way he oversees the character building of those he is calling to serve him. In Matthew 24 Jesus says the sun, moon and stars will be a sign of his coming. The time of great tribulation comes to an end when “the sun will be darkened, the moon will not give its light, and the stars will fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens will be shaken” [Matthew 24:29] While we should not exclude a possible application in some physical sense, the saying would appear to have an application to a total crisis and collapse of the earth’s ruling power; and certainly the various ruling powers are, to a degree, in disarray at the moment. The “earth (i.e. the people on earth) will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. And he will send out his angels with a loud trumpet call, and they will gather his elect …” [Matthew 24:30-31] As we see various governments in the world experiencing more and more dysfunction and the people dissatisfied with their leaders - 2017 is developing more and more as a crisis year. As the year progresses our eyes may be drawn to the Middle East – but the lack of good financial foundations may be a major factor with the rulers, the sun, moon and stars, not knowing how to cope. People and nations worship money instead of God; we must not be like the foolish virgins we will read about tomorrow: let us be ready to bow down and praise our Lord.-------- DC Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted January 23, 2017 Author Report Share Posted January 23, 2017 23 January 2017 Genesis 38Psalms 41; 42; 43Matthew 25 "MY SOUL THIRSTS FOR GOD" Today's Psalm 42 has this particularly challenging verse, "My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When shall I come and appear before God?" [Psalm 42:2] We linked this verse in with the two parables we read today in Matthew 25. There is first a parable of 10 virgins waiting for the bridegroom to arrive, but half of them are foolish and do not bring enough oil (of faith?) and the door is shut on them and they are left outside [Matthew 25:1-10] The second somewhat parallel parable is of servants who are entrusted with portions of their Master's property while he is away. When he returns they are called to appear before him. Those who have been conscientious are naturally ready when their Master re-appears, they have been thirsting for him to come. These receive commendation and are told "Enter into the joy of your Master" [Matthew 25:23]. Their thirsty soul was satisfied. However, there is a servant who is described as "slothful" [Matthew 25:26] who is barred from entry and the point is made by Jesus, "To everyone who has will more be given and he will have an abundance. But from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away." [Matthew 25:29] We now look again at Psalm 42 where we read another important question – and the answer to it! "Why are you cast down, O my soul, why are you in turmoil within me? "Hope in God; for I shall again praise him …" [Psalm 42:5]. This thought leads to the Psalmist's recognition that "by day the LORD commands his steadfast love, and at night his song is with me, a prayer to the God of my life." [Psalm 42:8] The Psalmist learnt that the Lord will quench our thirst now if we truly drink from his word every day. We will have ample oil in our lamps and will be ready to appear before him with joy. This world is "a dry and weary land where there is no water" [Psalm 63:1] except for "the water of life" [Revelation 21:6] that is only to be found, here and now, in God's word.--------- DC Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted January 24, 2017 Author Report Share Posted January 24, 2017 24 January 2017 Genesis 39; 40Psalms 44Matthew 26 "AND OUR FAITH TURNED TO SIGHT ..." Our Matthew reading [Matthew 26] recounts the agonies of Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane and his prayers. “My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless not as I will, but as you will.” [Matthew 26:39]. Jesus made his “will” conform to his Father’s will. And what of our “will”? Peter was to later write of how Christ, in his commitment to his Father’s will “suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps.” [1 Peter 2:21] Before Jesus and his disciples went into the garden of Gethsemane, Jesus directed them to prepare for a Passover meal on “the first day of unleavened bread” [Matthew 26:17] Then we read, “Now as they were eating Jesus took bread …” - next “he took the cup …” [Matthew 26:26-27] and spoke of a “covenant … for many for the forgiveness of sins” [Matthew 26:28] The disciples must have been perplexed at his words, but there is no indication they asked him to explain. But this takes our minds forward to meditate on the record in Acts 2 and the events on the day of Pentecost and “the breaking of bread” [Acts 2:42] that then followed. With what intense meaning would the disciples and all who had just been baptised have taken part! We presume the disciples would earlier have done so after his resurrection and ascension, although there is no record of this – we meditate on the intensity of meaning as they did! How does it compare with ours? The disciple would also remember that their Master said, after the command to “Drink, all of you” that he then said, “I will not drink again of this fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father’s kingdom.” [Matthew 26:29] This event is beyond our comprehension – just as what was about to happen was beyond theirs. Could someone like the Apostle Paul grasp the wonder to come? Take note of his words in 1 Corinthians. “ ‘What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man imagined, what God has prepared for those who love him – these things God has revealed to us through the Spirit. For the Spirit searches everything, even the deep things of God.” [1 Corinthians 2:9-10] But for us “until that day when …”- and our faith is turned to sight and the Spirit which is “the powers of the age to come.” [Hebrews 6:5] is poured out on the faithful who will reign with him – may we be like the Thessalonians whose “faith is growing abundantly” [2 Thessalonians 1:3] to create adequate oil in our lamps as this world becomes an ever darker place.-------- DC Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted January 25, 2017 Author Report Share Posted January 25, 2017 25 January 2017 Genesis 41Psalms 45Matthew 27 "THEREFORE NATIONS WILL PRAISE YOU FOREVER …" The above quotation is found in the final verse of today's Psalm 45. The whole Psalm is an awesome heart challenging description of the kingdom – and of Jesus - saying that "grace is poured upon your lips; therefore God has blessed you forever." [Psalm 45:2] What awesomely prophetic verses follow! "Gird your sword on your thigh, O mighty one, in your splendour and majesty! [Psalm 45:3] And what a vision of the divine action to come upon the earth (and how soon now!) We read on [Psalm 45:4] "In your majesty ride out victoriously for the cause of truth and meekness and righteousness …" Those 3 words, truth, meekness and righteousness "will cause your name to be remembered in all generations; therefore nations will praise you forever and ever." [Psalm 45:17] This "praise" is something the nations will have to learn! What a learning curve that will be, how awesome the start of the kingdom will be! We are told in Psalm 45:5 "Your arrows are sharp in the heart of the king's enemies; the peoples fall under you." We call to mind God's words through Isaiah in his words about "the latter days" in Isaiah 2, that He shall judge between the nations, and shall decide disputes for many peoples …" [isaiah 2:4]. We sense from this that the "nations will" learn to "praise you forever." There is no solution for "disputes" today! Back in Psalm 45 we read that, as a result of the king's "arrows (being) sharp in the heart of the king's enemies; (so that) the peoples fall under you." [Psalm 45:5] - what an awesomer period that will be! But we then note the declaration is, "Your throne, O God, is forever and ever. The sceptre of your kingdom is a sceptre of uprightness". So Jesus is seen as "God"!? The next verse gives us the explanation, that because "you have loved righteousness and hated wickedness. Therefore God, your God, has anointed you with the oil of gladness …" Finally let us call to mind how Paul describes the climax in his 1st letter to the Corinthians, he tells us that Jesus "must reign until" he has put all his enemies under his feet. The last enemy to be destroyed is death. For "God has put all things in subjection under his feet." But when it says, "all things are put in subjection," it is plain that he is excepted who put all things in subjection under him. When all things are subjected to him, then the Son himself will also be subjected to him who put all things in subjection under him,that God may be all in all. [1 Corinthians 15:25-28] And "therefore nations will praise you forever."-------- DC Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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