Resource Manager Posted September 1, 2017 Report Share Posted September 1, 2017 01 September 2017 2 Kings 6Lamentations 21 Corinthians 15 "HOLD FAST TO THE WORD I PREACHED TO YOU" What do you believe? Some might respond, ‘Believe about what?’ This is a question that could be widely asked today? Answers are confusing. However, because so many have convinced themselves that they are no more than the highest form of animal that has evolved, many choose not to think too far into the future, it all looks so bleak. When I was young the Russian leader, the communist Krushchev – an atheist as were all such Russians – jeered at westerners for believing in “a pie in the sky”! And he was justified! The Bible’s real message is totally different and the substance of it is in today’s reading, 1 Corinthians 15. Note carefully how Paul begins this chapter. “Now I would remind you brothers (and sisters – footnote) of the gospel I preached to you. which you received, in which you stand, and by which you are being saved, if you hold fast to the word I preached to you – unless you believed in vain.” [1 Corinthians 15:1-2] Paul then re-iterates what he preached. It centred on the certainty of the resurrection to occur when Jesus returns [1 Corinthians 15:21-22] He says that if there is no resurrection, the dead stay dead “and your faith is in vain” [1 Corinthians 15:12-14]. When Jesus returns there will be a renewal of life for all who have died believing in the gospel message – and they will then have a wonderful spiritual body [1 Corinthians 15:44-49] But in Corinth, the prevailing Greek belief was in an immortal soul or spirit. The Greeks were ridiculing the Christian hope and saying “there is no resurrection of the dead” [1 Corinthians 15:12], it is not needed as we are going immediately into a spirit existence. It is tragic that this false belief was to be adopted by much of the church in the centuries that followed. Paul warned of this happening [2 Timothy 4:3-4] and stressed his personal hope and expectation was that “there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness which the Lord … will award me on that Day” because “I have kept the faith” [2 Timothy 4:7-8] If we do not keep this faith, our belief is in vain! Today many have no hope in an existence beyond this life; others have a false faith, based on human philosophy, in a spirit existence after death. Let us not be among those who “believed in vain” – or among those who give up on believing in God’s word and live only for the here and now. The hopelessness of life without God becomes plainer every day. Look up and read the last verse in today’s chapter. [1 Corinthians 15:58].-------- DC Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted September 2, 2017 Author Report Share Posted September 2, 2017 02 September 2017 2 Kings 7Lamentations 31 Corinthians 16 "BEAR THE YOKE IN OUR YOUTH" The Lamentations of Jeremiah is not a book we 'enjoy' reading. But do we only read those things that give a positive message and we find encouraging? Actually there are some gems hidden among this prophet's words of despair and distress. The first 2 chapters are about how God's anger with Jerusalem finally overflows into action; his mercy toward the people of His Holy City finally comes to an end, his judgments are poured out. Is our world today going to be a parallel to this? His word is available in all languages – yet is largely ignored – or scoffed at? The emphasis in just about everything the churches say is that we serve a God of love, that this is the total focus of God's character. There is little or no thought that his anger could be poured out today on an increasingly godless world. But twice it happened to God's holy city – Jerusalem; they were terrifying times. Today's chapter, Lamentations 3, Jeremiah suddenly expresses his own feelings, his own experience of overwhelming personal despair, "though I call and cry for help, he shuts out my prayer" [Lamentations 3:8] That reminds us of the final words of Jesus on the cross, "My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?" Yet in his Lamentations, as with David's Psalms, what begins with despairing thoughts, gets replaced by more positive ones. See how Jeremiah lifts his mind to a higher plain, "but this I call to mind and therefore I have hope" [Lamentations 3:21]. Then come the words that have been made into a much loved hymn about the mercies of God "they are new every morning: great is your faithfulness" Lamentations 3:23] Next he writes, "The LORD is good to those who wait for him … who seek him" [Lamentations 3:25] Will the Lord have reason to be good to you? In conclusion, take special note of Lamentations 3: 27 "… it is good for us to bear thee yoke in our youth!" Bearing the yoke? If when we are young our lives are easy, there are no problems, no challenges, nothing to make us anxious; it will be hard to develop a good character; worse still, we will have little inclination toward being yoked to Jesus Christ and to carry his cross (meditate on John 15:18-19). It may be the lot of those who are truly yoked to Christ to follow in the footsteps of Jeremiah to some degree. -------- DC Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted September 3, 2017 Author Report Share Posted September 3, 2017 03 September 2017 2 Kings 8Lamentations 42 Corinthians 1; 2 "BUT THAT WAS TO MAKE US RELY ... ON GOD" We live in an increasingly godless world. People in any kind of difficulty expect their Governments to provide and complain when they do not. They are trying to do this in the USA. Governments that are in financial difficulties are increasingly have to do this, indeed some are being forced to cut back on their services. We started reading Paul's second letter to the Corinthians today; much of it is quite different in tone to his first letter. He writes of the "God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction" [2 Corinthians 1:3-4] and it is our responsibility to comfort and help others who are in trouble "with the comfort with which we ourselves sense we been comforted by God." Paul writes of his own experiences and that "we despaired of life itself. Indeed we felt that we had received the sentence of death. But that was to make us rely not on ourselves but on God" [2 Corinthians 1:8-9] So we understand that for some of us, the difficult experiences that challenge us, is a time of training that we might more fully rely on God in the future. We reflected on events of 78 years ago today when we were young school children. Why was there so much fearful and urgent conversation among adults, among the neighbours? Our parents did not want us to feel troubled, they did not enlighten us. We understood later that it had been the day when war was declared and the terrible World War II began. So many relied on themselves and their countries desperate efforts to develop armed strength – how few relied on God and were confident God was in control. We are convinced that even more fearful times await this godless world – we must build up our faith so we possess a spirit that fully relies on God. We must aim to develop the convictions Paul 'worked' for the Corinthians to enjoy. The last verse of today's chapter says, "… we work with you for your joy, as you stand firm in your faith." This letter has come down to us – it surely is a message that is also for us, let us rely … on God.-------- DC Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted September 10, 2017 Author Report Share Posted September 10, 2017 04 September 2017 2 Kings 9Lamentations 52 Corinthians 3; 4 "THE THINGS THAT ARE UNSEEN ARE ETERNAL" 2 Corinthians 4 ends with the above triumphant statement. Paul is reassured and reassures others who possess "the same spirit of faith" [2 Corinthians 4:13], triumphantly stating that - "knowing that he who raised the Lord Jesus will raise us also with Jesus and bring us with you into his presence." [2 Corinthians 4:14]. Let us make sure we can say the same - because we have embraced the same wondrous faith that Paul had and wrote about. In the 1st Century spearheaded by the faith and efforts of Paul - and this "spirit of faith" began to spread to "more and more people … to the glory of God." [2 Corinthians 4:15] And now it has spread to us! But so many are blind to it until there is very little glory for God! It is to the "glory of God" that some still read his word day by day! Do let us hope that there be a positive answer to the question Jesus asked, "… when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?" [Luke 18:8]. Over the centuries many have been the afflictions that have often occurred to those who followed in the footsteps of Paul, although few have suffered them to the same extent. How wonderfully positive Paul was! What an example for all who tried to follow in his footsteps! Let us take right into our hearts the way his chapter today ends! "… our inner self is being renewed day by day. For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal." -------- DC Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted September 10, 2017 Author Report Share Posted September 10, 2017 05 September 2017 2 Kings 10Ezekiel 12 Corinthians 5; 6; 7 "LET US CLEANSE OURSELVES FROM EVERY DEFILEMENT" As we read further in Paul's Second letter to the Corinthians we note the words he uses to express the wonder of their privileged position before God. Previously they had gone to pagan temples to worship idols but now, Paul tells them, you "are the temple of the living God" and directs their minds to what had been written long ago about this, saying, as God said, "I will make my dwelling among them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Therefore go out from their midst, and be separate from them says the Lord, and touch no unclean thing; and I will welcome you, and I will be a father to you, and you shall be sons and daughters to me, says the Lord Almighty" [2 Corinthians 6:16-18] All these words are quoted from Leviticus 26:12 and Isaiah 52:11. This is a lesson for all who claim to follow Christ not to neglect this part of God's word and the lessons of his earlier dealings with human beings. An even greater lesson follows for, after quoting these scriptures Paul next comments, "Since we have these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from every defilement of body and spirit, bringing holiness to completion in the fear of God." [2 Corinthians 7:1] Today, more than ever before, people abuse their bodies with defiling substances at the same time their minds are corrupted by what they read and watch. But those whose aim in life is to bring "holiness to completion" must turn from all such things. However our minds do not operate in a vacuum and if we fill them with godly thoughts, there is no room for the things that defile. Paul had reminded them [2 Corinthians 5:9-10] that "we must all appear at the judgement seat of Christ, so that each may receive what is due for what he has done". Finally, consider Paul's words, "For the love of Christ controls us." [2 Corinthians 5:14] "that those who live might no longer live for themselves but for him who for their sakes died and was raised" [2 Corinthians 5:15] An essential part of that living is to "cleanse ourselves from every defilement …" The outcome of which is to succeed in bringing "holiness to completion." This is the vital aim we must have let us make progress towards it each day.-------- DC Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted September 10, 2017 Author Report Share Posted September 10, 2017 06 September 2017 2 Kings 11; 12Ezekiel 22 Corinthians 8; 9 "WHOEVER SOWS BOUNTIFULLY WILL ALSO REAP BOUNTIFULLY" Throughout the Old Testament, especially from the time of the Law of Moses, tithing became an established principle for God's nation. But we must remember that this was a law for a nation. When the nation chose to have kings there were additional financial burdens. The situation with Christianity was quite different, believers became a spiritual nation [1 Peter 2:9] but there is not even a hint of a law of tithing in the early church, although many sections of the Christian movements today act as though there is. Our chapters [2 Corinthians 8; 9] in Second Corinthians today make it plain that all giving by believers was "of their own freewill" [2 Corinthians 8:3] and that giving to the needs of others is an "act of grace" [2 Corinthians 8:6] by the giver. Paul comments that it is "a matter of fairness (that) your abundance at the present time should supply their need" [2 Corinthians 8:13-14] and Paul reflects back to how God oversaw life in the wilderness journeys under Moses when "whoever gathered much had nothing left over, and whoever gathered little had no lack" [2 Corinthians 8:15]. The climax to Paul's reasoning comes in 2 Corinthians 9:6-7, "The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must give as he (or she) has made up (their) mind, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver." May we all reap bountifully, may this be Wonderfully the case when Christ returns. Remember the Proverb, "the one who sows righteousness gets a sure reward." [Proverbs 11:18]: or as Paul puts it in writing to the Galatians, "let us not grow weary in doing good, for in due season we will reap if we do not give up" [Galatians 6:9].-------- DC Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted September 10, 2017 Author Report Share Posted September 10, 2017 07 September 2017 2 Kings 13Ezekiel 32 Corinthians 10; 11 "PAUL … ENTREAT YOU BY THE MEEKNESS … OF CHRIST" Paul, in 2 Corinthians 10, starts with an impassioned appeal to them. His appeal challenges us to consider the extent to which we (and others) are influenced by the way people try to influence others to accept and believe what they are saying! Let us ponder the way we (and others) try to influence other people to believe us! The worst example is probably seen in the arguments in Parliament! But, within religious circles, over the years, we see a multitude of examples! How little meekness was shown! How many different churches! Now let us look at the way Paul appeals to the believers in Corinth. "I, Paul, myself entreat you, by the meekness and gentleness of Christ ..." Paul proceeds to appeal to them to see how "we destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ" [2 Corinthians 10:5]. This is far more than considering - what he said! Paul was successful in the approach of 'meekness' and 'gentleness' so that in that generation (and at least one or two following) Paul's approach resulted in many of the idol worshipers having a total change of heart! This is more that acquiring an 'academic' belief. Would that we had a Paul among us today! Look at the reaction he caused among the Thessalonians! We read at the end of the First chapter of his First Letter to them of "the kind of reception we had among you, and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come" [1 Thessalonians 1:9-10]. Paul's approach, together with other Apostles, resulted in the ancient world accepting and practicing "the meekness … of Christ." Can we see any of that approach today? Paul's aim was to get them to "obey Christ." That obedience results in 'the meekness' and 'gentleness of Christ' being seen in us: food for our deep and careful thought today! This is the next vital stage beyond our saying 'I believe …'!-------- DC Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted September 10, 2017 Author Report Share Posted September 10, 2017 08 September 2017 2 Kings 14Ezekiel 42 Corinthians 12; 13 "ALL FOR YOUR UPBUILDING" Today we completed reading Paul's 2 letter to the Corinthians. Paul declares to them, "It is in the sight of God we have been speaking in Christ, and all for your upbuilding" [2 Corinthians 12:19]. And that is the foundation reason why we read God's word every day – for our spiritual strengthening and upbuilding. How vitally necessary this is today as our world of 2017 grows more and more ungodly. How much is this ungodliness affecting us? We must honestly answer that question. We can let David answer it for us – how wonderfully provocative of thought and meditation is his Psalm 7, how intensely it portrays what should be our true relationship with our Creator (and His Son) in these ungodly days. Psalm 7:9-10 gives us David's prayer! "Oh, let the evil of the wicked come to an end, and may you establish the righteous you who test the minds and hearts, O righteous God! My shield is with God, who saves the upright in heart." Most if not of all of us, are regularly surrounded by ungodliness. In his final chapter [2 Corinthians 13] Paul challenged them (and us) to "Examine yourselves, to see whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves." [2 Corinthians 13:5] Paul is writing about things that were "all for (their) upbuilding" [2 Corinthians 12:19] This must be the way we approach one another – asking ourselves – what can I do (or say) to encourage them further in (their) upbuilding. What a sense of commitment Paul had to the work of his Lord! It is clear this grew and grew – the more he did. A final thought – let us ponder his declaration in 2 Corinthians 12:15 "I will most gladly spend and be spent for your souls" Let us aim to develop more and more of that spirit toward each other, saying, we are doing this (or that) "all for your upbuilding."-------- DC Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted September 10, 2017 Author Report Share Posted September 10, 2017 09 September 2017 2 Kings 15Ezekiel 5Luke 1 "THAT WE SHOULD BE SAVED FROM OUR ENEMIES" Today we started reading the gospel of Luke. This is the Gospel that starts with an account of the father of John the Baptist, a priest in the Temple, who is made deaf and dumb because he questioned the words of the angel Gabriel who appeared to him as he was ministering in the Temple. It was only after John was born that he was able to speak again. At that time he was "filled with the Holy Spirit and prophesied" [Luke 1:67] and said, among other things, that their newborn son "will go before the Lord to prepare his ways, to give knowledge of salvation …" [Luke 1:76-77] This happened! But we then noted what else he said that hasn't happened yet! John repeated the words of the "prophets from of old, that we should be saved from our enemies and from the hand of all who hate us" [Luke 1:70-71] The reason why these words were not fulfilled then was because they rejected their Messiah. Today there is extensive dislike of the Jews, although they are back in the land: it is surprising though, that they have relative peace. We must specially note the vision that the Holy Spirit gave to John's father of the time when "we, being delivered from the hand of our enemies, might serve him without fear, in holiness and righteousness" [Luke 1:74-75] Again, these are words that await fulfilment – and only today is the scene in the Holy Land such that this seems imminent. In Luke 3 we read that the preaching of John Baptist included the following prophecy about the work of Jesus, "His winnowing fork is in his hand to clear his threshing floor and to gather the wheat into his barn, but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire." [Luke 3:17]. The fulfilment of this also appears to be imminent! The world is overflowing with "chaff" – modern communication is making this more evident – but modern methods of communication may be a factor in facilitating the final ingathering [Matthew 22:10]. May all who read this be among the wheat and 'be saved from' our godless world.-------- DC Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted September 10, 2017 Author Report Share Posted September 10, 2017 10 September 2017 2 Kings 16Ezekiel 6Luke 2 "THAT THE THOUGHTS FROM MANY HEARTS MAY BE REVEALED" What thoughts are provoked in your mind as you read the Bible? We keep many of our thoughts to ourselves, especially if they are 'disturbing' thoughts. Today we read in Luke 2 of something that was to happen "so that the thoughts from many hearts may be revealed" [Luke 2:35] Who said this to whom? The man who said it is only mentioned in this chapter of the Bible. His "name was Simeon, and this man was righteous and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel (i.e. the Messiah), and the Holy Spirit was upon him. It had been revealed to Simeon by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord's Christ. And he came … into the temple, and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him according to the custom of the Law, he took him up in his arms and blessed God and said, 'Lord, now you are letting your servant depart in peace, according to your word; for my eyes have seen your salvation … a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to your people Israel'" [Luke 2:25-32]. A remarkable thing to say: especially that this baby would be 'a light to the Gentiles.' The Jews saw themselves as superior to all other races - a Jew of that era, for example would not sit and eat with a non-Jew [Acts 10:28]; throughout their lives they had virtually ignored many Old Testament references to the Gentiles, but an extraordinary set of circumstances led to Simeon's prophecy being fulfilled. Then a child is brought to Simeon and he said to Mary his mother "Behold this child is appointed for the fall and rising again of many in Israel, and for a sign that is opposed (and a sword will pierce through your own soul also), so that the thoughts from many hearts may be revealed" [Luke 2:34-35] What heart searchings there were in the years that followed, especially Mary's as she stood by his cross. The teaching and life of Jesus Christ has challenged the thinking and actions of human beings ever since. Those who ignore Jesus will find he will ignore them on that future day, now so close, when he comes again. We must each ask ourselves, what thoughts does that babe in the arms of Simeon, 2,000 years ago, provoke in my heart? Those thoughts lead to our actions - of one kind - or another.-------- DC Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted September 12, 2017 Author Report Share Posted September 12, 2017 11 September 2017 2 Kings 17Ezekiel 7Luke 3 "WHAT THEN SHALL WE DO?" Our 3 readings today have, in a sense, a common theme. Luke 3 gives us the message that John the Baptist preached in the wilderness; but first we noted his opening 3 verses. Luke was a real historian and he gives details of 5 different Gentiles who were in power when John began his preaching. Sceptics in the Nineteenth Century, emboldened by the new evolution theory, searched into secular history thinking they would surely find some inaccuracies in Luke, but to their dismay, they found so much of his historic detail fully confirmed. It was the same with his book of Acts and this strengthened the faith of wavering believers a hundred and more years ago. John "went into all the region around the Jordan, proclaiming a baptism of repentance" [Luke 3:3] he was fulfilling what Isaiah had been caused to prophecy, "The voice of one crying in the wilderness, 'Prepare the way of the Lord'" [Luke 3:4] There had been no prophet since Malachi some 400 years earlier. When we compare Matthew 3:5 onwards we see that his anger in saying, in Luke's record, "You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come?" [Luke 3:7] is directed against the religious leaders. There are comparisons with Ezekiel's message [Ezekiel 7] from captivity which we also read today which he sent to the people remaining in Jerusalem. Those who had already gone into captivity like himself and Daniel were actually in a better situation. Our reading in 2 Kings 17 was about the collapse of the northern kingdom, this last kingdom was actually so evil that it's last king had even "burned his son as an offering" [2 Kings 16:3] to the false gods he thought might help him! We note that the remaining godly people in the north had in previous reigns moved south to worship the LORD in Jerusalem. [2 Chronicles 15:9]. After John the Baptist warned off the religious leaders "the crowds asked him, 'What then shall we do?'" and his answer was more than - to be baptised, although that is essential (as practised after Jesus ascended to heaven [Acts 2:41]). It was to be followed by a change to their lives and where they have two of anything "to share with him who has none, and whomever has food is to do likewise." [Luke 3:10] This is a fundamental message of the New Testament. Baptism is an essential step in following Christ, but it must be followed by sharing our faith and doing good works. What a blessing it is to live in a country where the Government also looks after the poor as best it can, and also tries to give some help the poor in other countries. Finally we ponder the great efficiency in doing this when Jesus returns – but until then we know the things we should do against a background of great waste of money and time by so many of the people around us in their pursuit of leisure and pleasure. We know the right answer to the question - "What then shall we do?"-------- DC Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted September 12, 2017 Author Report Share Posted September 12, 2017 12 September 2017 2 Kings 18Ezekiel 8Luke 4 "DO NOT LET HEZEKIAH MAKE YOU …" Our reading in 2 Kings [2 Kings 18] illustrates how those who trust in God are sometimes fully tested to cause them to examine the basis of their trust. It seems clear that deserters from among the defenders of Jerusalem had expressed their reasons for changing sides to the Assyrians. This followed the collapse of their faith in the LORD; their faith was not like that of King Hezekiah. They saw all the physical power of the Assyrians who now surrounded the city and the sight overwhelmed their faith.. Maybe the deserters had helped the Assyrians perfect their Hebrew so that their Commander could speak in Hebrew to scoff about the weakness of YHWH, the LORD, to the defenders on the walls. The commander said "Do you think that mere words are a strategy and power for war? In whom do you now trust that you have now rebelled against me?" [2 Kings 18:19-20] It is evident that the deserters had voiced their complaints - for the Commander goes on to say, "if you say to me, 'We trust in the LORD our God', is it not he whose high places Hezekiah has removed, saying to Judah and Jerusalem, 'you shall worship before this altar in Jerusalem?'" [2 Kings 18:22]. The Temple had been built to create one place of worship but many people still preferred to go up to the high places: you can see in India many such 'high places' where people go to worship Hindu gods. There is a sort of parallel today with some believers in God creating formulas of words which are not in the Bible and indeed, contradict it - like saying 'God is one in three persons.' The battle of words reached its highest point when the Assyrian "called out in a loud voice in the language of Judah, 'Hear the word of the great king, the king of Assyria! … Do not let Hezekiah deceive you… Do not let Hezekiah make you trust in the LORD by saying, 'The LORD will surely deliver us' … do not listen to Hezekiah … he misleads you ...'" [2 Kings 8:28-32] Today we are surrounded by those who cast doubt on the foundations of our faith and the reality of the God of the Bible! Some advocate practices which God's word plainly condemns, as example 1 Timothy 1:10. Is this undermining our faith? Tomorrow we will read of the reaction of Hezekiah – how he strengthens his faith with the help of God's great prophet Isaiah – a valuable lesson for us – to take God's words fully into our hearts – and be strong in faith. -------- DC Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted September 13, 2017 Author Report Share Posted September 13, 2017 13 September 2017 2 Kings 19Ezekiel 9Luke 5 "YOU HAVE MADE HEAVEN AND EARTH" We read today at the start of 2 Kings 19 the prayer of King Hezekiah. He "went into the house of the LORD" and then "sent Eliakim, who was over the household … to the prophet Isaiah." His message to the prophet was, "This day is a day of distress, of rebuke, and of disgrace … It may be that the LORD your God heard … (the words) … the king of Assyria has sent to mock the living God … therefore lift up your prayer …" [2 Kings 19:3-4] Hezekiah's prayer is inspiring, as our world is falling apart, as it most certainly will; it is a model for us! We read more of his words. "O LORD … you are the God, you alone, of all the kingdoms of the earth; you have made heaven and earth. Incline your ear, O LORD, and hear; open your eyes, O LORD, and see …" [2 Kings 19:15-16] "Then Isaiah" … sent to him the LORD's response to his prayer, "Thus says the LORD, the God of Israel: Your prayer to me … I have heard. This is the word that the LORD has spoken concerning …" [2 Kings 19:20-21] and then follows a message about the fate God has ordained for the Assyrians because they "have mocked the Lord" [2 Kings 19:23] Today nearly all have 'mocked' any belief that a God exists and despise the inspired words of the Bible. Let's take note those by Paul to the Colossians, "by (Greek. 'because of') him (Jesus) all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible" [Colossians 1:16] So much meaning here! What a heart searching prayer of Jesus we will read on Monday; it makes clear the submission of Jesus to his Father, the creator of all things, "I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to little children …" [Luke 10:21] Let us be 'little children' – and despise the 'pride' in today's world. Finally, note the special message for us in that short but so meaningful 1 John "Little children, abide in him, so that when he appears we may have confidence and not shrink from him in shame at his coming." [1 John 2:28] Let us have full confidence in him who "made heaven and earth" and constantly offer him prayers of praise. -------- DC Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted September 16, 2017 Author Report Share Posted September 16, 2017 14 September 2017 2 Kings 20Ezekiel 10Luke 6 "… AND NOT DO WHAT I TELL YOU" We read more of the challenging sayings of Jesus today – human nature is such that it tends to gloss over them, especially if they are too challenging. So many came to Jesus to see his miracles – and if they were sick, or had someone who was – to be healed. How few, it seems, came to hear and to learn and absorb his teachings into their hearts. How few today – read with the same purpose! It is not at all difficult to possess a Bible – and there are 4 gospel accounts of his life and teachings The context of his challenging saying, with which we started these thoughts is - "Why do you call me 'Lord, Lord,' and not do what I tell you?" [Luke 6:46] It is a challenging chapter, it is Luke's version of the "Sermon on the Mount" beginning at Luke 6:20. Will those who do what Jesus tells them "Rejoice in that day, and leap for joy" [Luke 6:23] Jesus adds words which have been misunderstood! "For behold, your reward is great in heaven." This statement leads to the question – when will they receive their reward? The answer to that is in the last chapter of the Bible, Revelation 22. "Behold, I am coming soon, bringing my recompense with me, to repay each one for what he has done. Blessed are those who wash their robes, so that they may have the right to the tree of life" [Revelation 22:12,14] The first chapters in the Bible tell us that human beings were locked out of the Garden of Eden and have access to "the tree of life and eat and live for ever" [Genesis 3:22]. Let us live – each day – reading the Bible, especially the words of Jesus so that we "hear" them and so will "do what Jesus tells us." Let us finish our thoughts with some appropriate words from Romans 2. Paul tells them (and us) "when God's righteous judgment will be revealed. He will render to each one according to his works: to those who by patience in well-doing seek for glory and honour and immortality, he will give eternal life" [Romans 2:5-7].-------- DC Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted September 16, 2017 Author Report Share Posted September 16, 2017 15 September 2017 2 Kings 21Ezekiel 11Luke 7 "BLESSED IS THE ONE WHO …" As usual, all our chapters are full of meaningful lessons: first, Hezekiah after his life is extended 15 years is succeeded by a 12 yr old son, Manasseh who turns out to be a very bad king. We wonder about the role of Hephzibah, his mother in this. The spirituality of the person we marry is very important. Hephzibah's name is apparently of Phoenician origin, meaning, "delight of Baal." Again the spirit takes Ezekiel to Jerusalem and gives him insight into God's reaction; this arises from his awareness of the minds of those living there. God always has such knowledge! How awesome when we contemplate and meditate on this! Ezekiel learns, "But as for those whose heart goes after their detestable things and their abominations, I will bring their deeds upon their own heads, declares the Lord GOD." [Ezekiel 11:21] What will soon happen in our days!? In Luke 7 we read how messengers come to Jesus from John the Baptist. Our Lord has been doing many remarkable miracles, but when he brings to life again a young man who is being carried out to his burial, "fear seized them all, and they glorified God, saying, 'A great prophet has arisen among us'! and 'God has visited his people!'" And this report about him spread through the whole of Judea and all the surrounding country. John's disciples reported these things to him. And John, calling two of his disciples to him, sent them to Jesus, saying, "Are you the one who is to come, or shall we look for another?" [Luke 7:16-19] The way Jesus answers him is instructive – and challenging! John evidently had certain expectations of the Messiah's work – and what was happening did not fit these. We look back at Luke 4 and see how Jesus quoted from a scroll of Isaiah when in the Synagogue, Luke 4:17-19. How challenging to John (and others) is the way Jesus responds to these messengers, "Go and tell John what you have seen and heard: the blind receive their sight, the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, and the deaf hear, the dead are raised up, the poor have good news preached to them. And blessed is the one who is not offended by me." [Luke 7:22-23] He is telling John to check out and "believe all that the prophets have spoken"! These are the words of Jesus we will read in Luke 24:25, when, after his resurrection he speaks to 2 disciples on the road to Emmaus. This is a lesson for us as we anticipate the return of our Lord and our expectations are increasing! We must take a lesson from the quandary of John the Baptist and look to "all that the prophets" have written! Are they not like pieces of a jigsaw! We have more and more pieces that seem to fit, but there are still others we are not sure about: events yet to come, maybe very soon, will make the picture clearer and clearer.-------- DC Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted September 16, 2017 Author Report Share Posted September 16, 2017 16 September 2017 2 Kings 22; 23Ezekiel 12Luke 8 "THERE WAS NO KING LIKE HIM WHO …" What a challenging – and inspiring – set of readings we have today! In 2 Kings 22; 23 we see how Josiah, the last good and righteous king to reign in Jerusalem was inspired by the words that Moses had written when they were discovered in the Temple as it was being restored and cleansed at his command. As a result he instituted great reforms and the removal and destruction of everything that was ungodly. "Before him there was no king like him, who turned to the LORD with all his heart and with all his soul and with all his might, according to all the Law of Moses, nor did any like him arise after him." [2 Kings 23:25] We can see how he was truly a type of the Messiah and ponder in awe, as we contemplate the future of our world, the laws that will be put in place when our Saviour, God's Son, becomes king and the law goes forth from Jerusalem into all the world. Not for a few years either – but for a 1,000! See Revelation 20:4. Recall the words in Isaiah 2, "For out of Zion shall go the law, and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem. He shall judge between the nations …" Our imagination is overwhelmed as we try to visualise the reality of this – and the responsibilities the redeemed will have! In Ezekiel 12 we read how the people were "saying, 'The days grow long, and every vision comes to nothing'"? [Ezekiel 12:22] These are visions on the judgements coming on Jerusalem! Ezekiel is to "tell them therefore, 'Thus says the Lord GOD .... The days are near, and the fulfilment of every vision." [Ezekiel 12:23] There is some comparison here with our own anticipations in interpreting prophecy over the last 150 years. The chapter ends, "None of my words will be delayed any longer, but the word that I speak will be performed, declares the Lord GOD." In Luke 8 we read some familiar parables, but we must not let their very familiarity to us dull their impact on our consciences. The seed of God's word is sown into all kinds of soil - let us keep tilling our minds so we always provide "good soil ... For (we - they) are those who, hearing the word, hold it fast in an honest and good heart, and bear fruit with patience." [Luke 8:15]-------- DC Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted September 22, 2017 Author Report Share Posted September 22, 2017 17 September 2017 2 Kings 24; 25Ezekiel 13Luke 9 "WHEN THE LORD HAS NOT SENT THEM" There is a parallel between today's readings which complete the 2 Kings and what we read in Ezekiel: they are both about the same period, the end and destruction of the wonderful Kingdom David and Solomon had established; but it is written from two different aspects. The people of God's kingdom had descended into spiritual depravity and we cannot help but see parallels with today. Ezekiel was a Priest who went into captivity with King Jehoiachin in the year 597BC [2 Kings 24:14-16]. Eleven years later Jerusalem was destroyed [2 Kings 25:2]. It was during this period that Ezekiel is sending messages back to those still in Jerusalem, and telling those who were with him in exile that their dreams of Jerusalem's return to prosperity and of those in captivity returning would not be fulfilled – and the reason for this! His messages are to counteract the misleading pronouncements of those who falsely claim to be prophets of the LORD. Yesterday's reading [Ezekiel 12] finished with the message "say to them, 'Thus says the Lord GOD: None of my words will be delayed any longer, but the word that I speak will be performed,' declares the Lord GOD." Ezekiel 13 starts with Ezekiel being told to "say to those who prophesy from their own hearts: 'Hear the word of the LORD'" [Ezekiel 13:2], then to declare, the LORD says, "Woe to the foolish prophets who follow their own spirit and have seen nothing!" [Ezekiel 13:3]. A 'punch line' follows – "They say declares the LORD, when the LORD has not sent them and yet they expect him to fulfil their word" [Ezekiel 13:6]. We fear there is a parallel with preaching today - that message that God is totally loving and forgiving regardless of behaviour and the 'believers' future in heaven is assured, yet such who preach this do so 'from their own hearts.' We have one big advantage today, the whole world has God's word in their own language and those who are not satisfied with the messages they hear (if they choose to hear them at all) can check up and read God's words for themselves. The Bible is a gold mine of God's messages that all can 'dig' and bring to the surface – providing nourishing daily food for human minds. Those who 'dig' with the aim of becoming teachers of others need to heed the warning of James, "Not many of you should become teachers … for … we who teach will be judged with greater strictness" [James 3:1]. -------- DC Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted September 22, 2017 Author Report Share Posted September 22, 2017 18 September 2017 1 Chronicles 1Ezekiel 14Luke 10 "TURN AWAY FROM YOUR IDOLS" There are many idols in the world today. Modern means of instant communication have made it possible to promote news about all kinds of things, especially what people are doing and achieving in sports and entertainment. The best achievers are put on a pedestal – and many admire and idolize them. These people make enormous amounts of money, especially entertainers and sports stars. All the best footballers in the AFL become millionaires. Pop stars become multi-millionaires, even billionaires! They are adored (worshipped?) by idolizing fans. Ezekiel reading [Ezekiel 14] is all about idols. Long ago all the nations, apart from Israel, worshipped idols instead of the one true God. Why? The way they worshipped idols appealed to human nature. There were temple prostitutes in attendance in the temples of these idols, other orgies took place there; it appealed greatly to baser human instincts. God tells Ezekiel to "speak to them and say … anyone … who takes his idols into his is heart and sets the stumbling block of his iniquity before his face and yet comes to the prophet, I the LORD will answer him …Thus says the Lord GOD: Repent and turn away from your idols, and turn away your faces from all your abominations" [Ezekiel 14:4,6] He adds, "anyone … who separates himself from me … I will set my face against that person" [Ezekiel 14:7-8]. Today, God surely takes the same attitude to those who turn from him and allow godless attitudes to thrive in their minds, but then on Sunday come to worship and sing hymns we cannot expect God's attitude to be any different to what it was in the days of Ezekiel. Those who today have come out from this godless world can see this most clearly and fully appreciate the words of Paul, "You were slaves of sin … but what fruit were you getting at that time from the things of which you are now ashamed? … become slaves of God, the fruit you get leads to sanctification and its end, eternal life." [Romans 6:20-22] "Turn away from your idols."-------- DC Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted September 22, 2017 Author Report Share Posted September 22, 2017 19 September 2017 1 Chronicles 2Ezekiel 15Luke 11 "BUT INSIDE YOU ARE FULL OF …" Our Luke reading today features Jesus' criticism of the religious leaders. They were obsessed with unimportant ritual. They had elaborated on the straightforward commandments of Moses about washing hands and making sure cups and vessels were clean. What really motivated them to do this? The ritual they had created was more important to them than the reason for the commandment. The lesson Jesus draws from this failure is one we must value. He says, "You Pharisees cleanse the outside of the cup and the dish, but inside you are full of greed and wickedness" [Luke 11:39]. The outward appearance, what other people saw, was most important to them. They did things which would be seen by others, creating the image that they were righteous, good living people. The way politics is often played out today for the media, provides us with a Twenty First Century parallel. Jesus went on to comment that they gave a tithe (a tenth of the value) of all the little things [Luke 11:42] but neglect justice and the love of God. Let us beware; spirituality can so easily be just a facade. Some churches are a bad odour today when the facade collapses. God's anger built up against that generation; they had seen all the wonders of His Son's miracles. Our generation has learnt far more than any other about the intricate miracles of what God did at the creation of the world; things that had previously been beyond human sight. Yet, more and more people have locked their minds into believing there is no God! However, those who are fully convinced there is One God and that the Bible is his message must make sure that this conviction is on the inside! This is where God looks! What Peter wrote is so meaningful; "let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God's sight is very precious" [1 Peter 3:4]. This surely applies to both men and women, make sure it applies to you. --------- DC Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted September 22, 2017 Author Report Share Posted September 22, 2017 20 September 2017 1 Chronicles 3Ezekiel 16Luke 12 "WILL ESTABLISH FOR YOU AN EVERLASTING COVENANT" Ezekiel 16, our portion today, finishes with this wonderfully positive declaration. After all the negative messages Ezekiel had been caused to send back to the remnant of his people in and around Jerusalem - in Ezekiel 16:60 we read, "yet I will remember my covenant with you in the days of your youth, and I will establish for you an everlasting covenant." And so we ponder the wonder of the return and re-establishment of Israel in their homeland that began nearly 100 years ago. Our chapter ends with the declaration, "I will establish my covenant with you, and you shall know that I am the LORD, that you may remember and be confounded, and never open your mouth again because of your shame, when I atone for you for all that you have done, declares the Lord GOD." We cannot resist the feeling that their time to 'remember and be confounded' will very soon happen! Alongside this, let us be mindful of the atoning work of Jesus for us – have we genuinely accepted it – and been baptised? The nation of Israel was scattered from their land and Jerusalem destroyed nearly 2,000 years ago. Jesus said, as we will read next week, "Jerusalem will be trampled underfoot by the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles, are fulfilled" [Luke 21:24]. The return of several million Jews to their homeland over the past 100 years – and becoming a recognised nation 50 years ago – is obviously a miracle. Paul, in writing his letter to the believers in Rome , where many of the Jews had begun to live (also think of how many Roman Centurions showed their belief in Jesus) was inspired to make this prophecy, "Lest you be wise in your own sight, I do not want you to be unaware of this mystery, brothers: a partial hardening has come upon Israel, until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in" [Romans 11:25] It is very enlightening to read the rest of that chapter! How long now before the world witnesses the fulfilment of God's 'everlasting covenant'? Those who really know, have faith in and obey God's word will be there to see it. How utterly wonderful. -------- DC Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted September 22, 2017 Author Report Share Posted September 22, 2017 21 September 2017 1 Chronicles 4Ezekiel 17Luke 13; 14 "SALT IS GOOD" There are many parables and challenging sayings in today's 2 chapters in Luke's gospel. Jesus' utterance of just 3 words are very thought provoking: "Salt is good" [Luke 14:34]. This immediately reminds us of what Jesus said in his 'Sermon on the Mount' after what we call the 'Beatitudes.' Look at Matthew 5:13, - he said "You are the salt of the earth" to illustrate the role his genuine followers; were to have, to talk and live and act so as to become a good influence on those around them. How successful are we in doing that? In the passage in Luke, Jesus then adds, "but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is of no use either for the soil or for the manure pile. It is thrown away." So if we are not having an influence in adding a beneficial flavour to the lives around us how can we expect to have a place in God's kingdom and serve him there as the world as a whole at last learns righteousness, (see Isaiah 26:9) How many are there today that Jesus would see as 'salt'? In Luke 13 we saw the response when someone asked Jesus, "Lord, will those who are saved be few?" [Luke 13:23] This question caused him to tell a parable about "the narrow door" and how vital it is to "strive to enter" through it. The Master bluntly says, "For many I tell you, will seek to enter and will not be able." He then adds many will "begin to stand outside and to knock on the door, saying, 'Lord, open to us,' then he will answer them, 'I do not know where you come from.'" [Luke 13:25]. Jesus would be aware of the lesson of Noah in the ark, and how "the LORD shut him in" [Genesis 7:16]. Noah did not close the door! We can imagine the scene as the rain poured down and the floods grew – what would be the mood among the scoffers then! His parable continues - those knocking at the door will say to him, "We ate and drank in your presence and you taught in our streets" [Luke 13:26] and some/many of later generations may well say, 'we owned a Bible and read it sometimes.' But he will say, "I do not know where you come from" – he cannot see any 'salt' in them! Let us make sure we are good salt!------- - DC Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted September 22, 2017 Author Report Share Posted September 22, 2017 22 September 2017 1 Chronicles 5Ezekiel 18Luke 15 "HE WAS LOST, AND IS FOUND" The detailed parable of Jesus in Luke 15:11-32 about the prodigal son is a challenge to understand. We see it as applying to the Jewish nation, which, of its' own initiative chose to return to its ancient homeland – it was to a large degree a miracle! How did these long scattered people do this!? How did their god, the only God that has ever been, who sees all and knows all, do this? If we are to know the answer to that question, we need to come as close as possible to God, beginning with being baptised into the name of His Son – and then, following a life that brings us closer and closer to him, we will be in His Kingdom and then, and only then, will we know how he does such things. Paul told the people in Athens about "The God who made the world and everything in it, being Lord of heaven and earth, (he) does not live in temples made by man" (such as the Athenians made for the gods of their imagination!) [Acts 17:24]. He told them more about the true God who "made from one man every nation of mankind to live on all the face of the earth …" that 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] So, with this perception of God in action in our minds we turn back to our parable and 'see' there is a sense into which the 'father' represents God - and the Jews are the prodigal son, and in our days have returned to their homeland. And, also although the media gives this little or no publicity – there is renewed study of the Old Testament, the only part of the Bible they accept, and acceptance of the one true God. The Jews were 'lost' – and soon we will see the wonder of them being 'found.' Those who count themselves as true believers in Christ and have absorbed all that he and his followers need to see the point of this parable for themselves and "celebrate and be glad" [Luke 15:32] as they see the Jews seeing more clearly the wonder of God and purposes – as they certainly will when Jesus returns – and how soon now!?-------- DC Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted September 24, 2017 Author Report Share Posted September 24, 2017 23 September 2017 1 Chronicles 6Ezekiel 19Luke 16 "YOU CANNOT SERVE GOD AND …" Today we read the most challenging of the parables of Jesus – yet its' primary meaning is unmistakable. Jesus uttered it in relation to our purpose in life – how it comes down to one of two things. Jesus sums it all up in today's reading in Luke. No servant can serve two masters … he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. He ends by bluntly saying, "You cannot serve God and money" [Luke 16:13]. What is it to 'serve' money? This is not the most common Greek word for 'serve', in writing Acts Luke only uses the word in Acts 20:19 when he quoted Paul's words to the Ephesian elders (and Luke was with him at the time), he told them, "You yourselves know how I lived serving the Lord with all humility and with tears and with trials … I did not shrink from declaring to you anything that was profitable …" This was serving indeed! In writing to the Romans about issues over the law of Moses Paul says, "but now we are released from the law, having died to that which held us captive, so now we serve not under the old written code but in the new life of the Spirit" [Romans 7:6]. But the commitment involved in this kind of serving is parallel; it is the same! It is most interesting to note that the one place where John used this Greek word in his gospel [John 8:33] it is translated as 'enslaved'! Those Jesus sees as serving money he sees as being enslaved to it. It is the 'be all' and 'end all' of their thinking. Today, it is a matter of the things money can 'buy,' the pleasure and pride of owning the best of everything, of taking fabulous holidays, etc., with a token gesture toward others to ease their conscience, even fitting in a visit to church. Those who serve God, see how temporary and misleading is the expectation of rewards of serving money. People who decide to serve God have a 'bigger mind,' i.e. a bigger vision of thought. That famous chapter of Hebrews 11 selects the example of Moses when, surrounded by wealth as the adopted grandson of Pharaoh, he chose to be mistreated with the people of God than to enjoy the fleeting pleasures of sin. He considered the reproach of Christ greater wealth than the treasures of Egypt" [Hebrews 11:25-26]. What do we consider to be of greater wealth today? Less and less would make Christ their choice. Some, foolishly, try to have it both ways. If we are 'lukewarm' - as did those at Laodicea, let us remember the message of Jesus to them - read Revelation 3:15-16.-------- DC Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted September 24, 2017 Author Report Share Posted September 24, 2017 24 September 2017 1 Chronicles 7Ezekiel 20Luke 17 "AS THE LIGHTNING FLASHES AND LIGHTS UP THE SKY" We wonder why the Pharisees asked Jesus "when the kingdom of God would come?" [Luke 17:20] The reply of Jesus implies they were interested to know what 'signs' would indicate its approach. How did Jesus reply? "The kingdom of God is not coming with signs to be observed." Shortly after he warned his disciples, "they will say to you, 'Look, there' or 'Look here!' do not go out and follow them." [Luke 17:23]. We have seen, even this month, of some people gathering in expectation on a certain day which their leaders were predicting! It will be impossible to miss the fact that Christ has returned, "for as the lightning flashes and lights up the sky from one side to another, so will the Son of Man be in his day," [Luke 17:24]. Jesus then compares that day to the days of Noah. Life was proceeding as normal, people were "eating and drinking and marrying and being given in marriage, until the day when Noah entered the ark" [Luke 17:27]. Noah is described by Peter as a preacher, "a herald of righteousness" [2 Peter 2:5] but they ignored him, although they must have marvelled (scoffed?) at the massive ark he and his sons were building! Maybe some helped – especially if there were wages to be had. Many make money printing and selling Bibles today! Maybe some thought, if what he says proves to right, we will get on board when it rains with no sign of stopping. Notice what it says in Genesis about 'the day' of the flood. Life was proceeding as normal. Nothing happened the day Noah entered the ark and the door was shut! "Noah and his sons and his wife and his sons' wives with him went into the ark … and after seven days the waters of the flood came upon the earth." [Genesis 7:6,10] We can compare this with the blunt comment of Jesus in Luke, "Remember Lot's wife" [Luke 17:32] It was too late when the floods were rising – the door to the Ark was shut. Ponder the threefold comment Jesus makes about "One will be taken and the other left" [Luke 17:35]. Human instincts toward self-preservation will be of no avail on that day, only those with "the full assurance of faith" [Hebrews 10:22] will be ready when the angels come 'as lightning lights up the sky.' This may be literal, or it could be symbolic of dramatic events beyond human imagining. We watch present world events with increasing awe! The political actions are becoming more unpredictable. In addition to this, weather extremes and seismic activity with earthquakes and the threat of volcanic eruptions are adding to the worries of the world. Finally we ponder the warning recorded in Hebrews 10 (from Hebrews 10:25) of the need to redouble our efforts to lead Christ-like lives "all the more as you see the Day drawing near. For 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 …" It will be too late to change when "as the lightning flashes and lights up the sky."------- - DC Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Resource Manager Posted September 25, 2017 Author Report Share Posted September 25, 2017 25 September 2017 1 Chronicles 8Ezekiel 21Luke 18“O LORD ... YOU DISCERN MY THOUGHTS FROM AFAR”In this parable at the start of Luke 18 Jesus illustrates the importance of constant prayer and persistence in prayer. It is absolutely essential that he is involved in our lives. We must have a prayerful attitude, our response because we realise that’s God’s power is such, that he knows, as David puts it in a Psalm, “O LORD … you discern my thoughts from afar.” [Psalm 139:2].Let’s consider answers to prayer as this parable invites us to! Do we seek to know God’s will for us, or are we totally focused on our own wants and desires? Earlier this month we read of the traumas in Paul’s life, his prayers, the many difficult situations he endured and the Lord led them through them all – and delivered him. In the next few days we will read of Jesus, in earnest prayer to His Father. He does not get the answer he seeks, the Father’s will must be done. [Luke 22:41,42]Our way of thinking might cause us to wonder why the Lord led Paul into all these difficulties; but then we look at the outcome and realize that this is how faith grows. So in this parable we see the woman’s faith was, in the end, rewarded. Now look at the climax of the parable that we should “always pray and not lose heart” [Luke 18:7]The climax is a question [Luke 18:8], “when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on the earth?” Will he find those who really know the value of prayer, who pray to the uttermost as the world is falling apart around them? Those who do not lose heart?The next verses contain another parable. It is about two different types of men who prayed. The one whose prayer is heard, says Jesus, “went down to his house justified, rather than the other. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted.” [Luke 18:14]. Yes, we ought always to pray – even more than ever when we sense our Lord is about to come – but let us take heed how we pray.-------- DC Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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