Scripture:
Leviticus 15:31 "This is how you will guard the people of Israel from ceremonial uncleanness. Otherwise they would die, for their impurity would defile My tabernacle that stands among them".
Observation:
Leviticus 13-15 describe how and when things are considered unclean. It gives exactly how many days they are unclean and what they need to do to become clean again. It generally requires a sacrifice and a time of uncleanness. When they are ready, they must wash themselves and present themselves to the priest. All of this was so that they would not die in the presence of the Lord because nothing unclean can come near Him and live. A simple skin disease could defile the tabernacle that was holy to the Lord.
Application:
God takes uncleanness and sin extremely seriously. He is so holy that the smallest sin cannot enter into His presence. He demonstrates this clearly in the OT. Jesus Christ came to this earth to pay the perfect and final sacrifice for our sins and our uncleanness. This gives us access to God, not through our own goodness, but by the price Jesus paid for us. Our sin separates us from God, but by the blood of Jesus Christ we are cleansed. Let us not take lightly what Christ did for us. Let us live lives of purity and holiness.
Prayer:
Lord, I see how serious you are about keeping the temple clean and pure. My body is now the temple of the Holy Spirit. Give me the strength to cleanse the temple of the Spirit. Teach me to walk before you in holiness and the fear of the Lord. I want to become more like you in every way. Help me make right choices every day and live a life that others want to follow.
Yours Forever,
Jeff
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Distinguishing between sacred and common
Scripture:
Leviticus 10:10 "You must distinguish between what is sacred and what is common, between what is ceremonially unclean and what is clean".
Observation:
Nadab and Abihu, Aaron's sons had just been struck dead for offering strange fire on God's altar. They had done it themselves and therefore it was not holy unto the Lord. God pulls Aaron's other relatives together and consecrates them as priests and tells them they must live for Him alone. He tells them that they must distinguish between what is sacred and what is common. As priests they were not to touch the common, but should concentrate on the sacred.
Application:
Though today we are not priests like the priests of the OT, we also should distinguish between what is sacred and what is common. As a kingdom of priests, we believers should focus on the eternal, the sacred, the holy and God's will. We cannot live like everyone else! We are different from the rest of the world. The world concentrates on the common, we on the sacred. Their number one priority is self-advancement, our number one priority is God's Kingdom advancement. We must do the common, yet remain focused on the eternal and the sacred.
Prayer:
Lord, keep my life in focus. Help me not get distracted by the common. Teach me to live a life of sacred devotion to You and you alone. Help me to see clearly the difference between sacred and common and to live for the sacred. I want my life to be completely Yours. You are my God, my Rock and my Fortress. You are my deliverer and my strength. Help me focus on the sacred and do it with all my heart. As a pastor, teach me to focus on the sacred and let others do the common.
Love,
Jeff
Leviticus 10:10 "You must distinguish between what is sacred and what is common, between what is ceremonially unclean and what is clean".
Observation:
Nadab and Abihu, Aaron's sons had just been struck dead for offering strange fire on God's altar. They had done it themselves and therefore it was not holy unto the Lord. God pulls Aaron's other relatives together and consecrates them as priests and tells them they must live for Him alone. He tells them that they must distinguish between what is sacred and what is common. As priests they were not to touch the common, but should concentrate on the sacred.
Application:
Though today we are not priests like the priests of the OT, we also should distinguish between what is sacred and what is common. As a kingdom of priests, we believers should focus on the eternal, the sacred, the holy and God's will. We cannot live like everyone else! We are different from the rest of the world. The world concentrates on the common, we on the sacred. Their number one priority is self-advancement, our number one priority is God's Kingdom advancement. We must do the common, yet remain focused on the eternal and the sacred.
Prayer:
Lord, keep my life in focus. Help me not get distracted by the common. Teach me to live a life of sacred devotion to You and you alone. Help me to see clearly the difference between sacred and common and to live for the sacred. I want my life to be completely Yours. You are my God, my Rock and my Fortress. You are my deliverer and my strength. Help me focus on the sacred and do it with all my heart. As a pastor, teach me to focus on the sacred and let others do the common.
Love,
Jeff
Friday, March 26, 2010
Inspection is not a bad word
Scripture:
Exodus 39:43 "Then Moses inspected all their work. When he found it had been done just as the Lord had commanded him, he blessed them".
Observation:
God had given Moses very specific instructions concerning the building of the Tabernacle. He gave instructions about every furnishing, utensil, etc. Moses gave the command to the artisans and they did the work. When they were finished we come across this verse where Moses inspects everything they did and when it is found good, he blesses them.
Application:
Probably my weakest point in leadership is inspection. I tend to struggle with inspecting what someone has done. I don't like to point out what someone has done wrong. It is hard for me to inspect others work, especially if they are a volunteer. I see here that Moses inspected what he had instructed to see, if it was done right, then he blessed them if it was done right. God gave Moses the instructions so he was responsible to make sure it was done right. Moses would answer to God if they had slacked on their work, therefore he inspected what they did.
Prayer:
Lord, as you teach me leadership, help me not to be afraid to inspect what I expect. As you give me orders, help me not to shy away from inspecting the work others do for You and Your kingdom. Give me boldness as a leader to raise the bar of expectation to where I know You want it and then not resist inspecting what You have put in my heart. I need to grow in this area Lord. Help me, that I may be more effective for Your kingdom!
I Love You,
Jeff
Exodus 39:43 "Then Moses inspected all their work. When he found it had been done just as the Lord had commanded him, he blessed them".
Observation:
God had given Moses very specific instructions concerning the building of the Tabernacle. He gave instructions about every furnishing, utensil, etc. Moses gave the command to the artisans and they did the work. When they were finished we come across this verse where Moses inspects everything they did and when it is found good, he blesses them.
Application:
Probably my weakest point in leadership is inspection. I tend to struggle with inspecting what someone has done. I don't like to point out what someone has done wrong. It is hard for me to inspect others work, especially if they are a volunteer. I see here that Moses inspected what he had instructed to see, if it was done right, then he blessed them if it was done right. God gave Moses the instructions so he was responsible to make sure it was done right. Moses would answer to God if they had slacked on their work, therefore he inspected what they did.
Prayer:
Lord, as you teach me leadership, help me not to be afraid to inspect what I expect. As you give me orders, help me not to shy away from inspecting the work others do for You and Your kingdom. Give me boldness as a leader to raise the bar of expectation to where I know You want it and then not resist inspecting what You have put in my heart. I need to grow in this area Lord. Help me, that I may be more effective for Your kingdom!
I Love You,
Jeff
Thursday, March 25, 2010
God does Things Right
Scripture:
Exodus 38:24 "The people brought special offerings of gold totalling 2,193 pounds, as measured by the weight of the sanctuary shekel. This gold was used throughout the tabernacle."
Observation:
When God does something, He does it right! The people of Israel were building a portable tent that God had told them to build. One would think that, knowing they were going to be portable in the wilderness for 40 years, God would have told them to make something simple and make something beautiful later when they got to the promised land. The portable tabernacle used 2,193 pounds of gold, 7,545 pounds of silver and 5,310 pounds of bronze. Unbelievable! God is a god of excellence. He required this tabernacle to be made by the best artisans and craftsmen. He wanted it to be exact and perfect!
Application:
Today when we build buildings, ministries, etc. for God, we do it as cheap and as quickly as we can. We like to take the short cuts and are proud when we build as cheap as possible. God didn't even care what people thought about His tabernacle. He wanted it to be the best it could possibly be. I'm sure there were plenty of people saying, "we could use that gold on something else more important to our survival". God was saying "I am your survival". I love the cathedrals of Europe. You can see centuries of work put into one place of worship because they wanted to give God their absolute best. Let's determine to give God our best in every area of life. He deserves it!
Prayer:
Lord, You always do things right. WE like short cuts and taking the cheap route. Forgive me for not giving You my absolute best at all times. Teach me the discipline of making what we do for God the best it can possible be. Give me faith to believe that you will provide when we try to do things well for your glory. I want Your name to be glorified in the biggest and best way possible.
I love You Lord,
Jeffrey
Exodus 38:24 "The people brought special offerings of gold totalling 2,193 pounds, as measured by the weight of the sanctuary shekel. This gold was used throughout the tabernacle."
Observation:
When God does something, He does it right! The people of Israel were building a portable tent that God had told them to build. One would think that, knowing they were going to be portable in the wilderness for 40 years, God would have told them to make something simple and make something beautiful later when they got to the promised land. The portable tabernacle used 2,193 pounds of gold, 7,545 pounds of silver and 5,310 pounds of bronze. Unbelievable! God is a god of excellence. He required this tabernacle to be made by the best artisans and craftsmen. He wanted it to be exact and perfect!
Application:
Today when we build buildings, ministries, etc. for God, we do it as cheap and as quickly as we can. We like to take the short cuts and are proud when we build as cheap as possible. God didn't even care what people thought about His tabernacle. He wanted it to be the best it could possibly be. I'm sure there were plenty of people saying, "we could use that gold on something else more important to our survival". God was saying "I am your survival". I love the cathedrals of Europe. You can see centuries of work put into one place of worship because they wanted to give God their absolute best. Let's determine to give God our best in every area of life. He deserves it!
Prayer:
Lord, You always do things right. WE like short cuts and taking the cheap route. Forgive me for not giving You my absolute best at all times. Teach me the discipline of making what we do for God the best it can possible be. Give me faith to believe that you will provide when we try to do things well for your glory. I want Your name to be glorified in the biggest and best way possible.
I love You Lord,
Jeffrey
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Unfailing Love and No Excuses
Scripture:
Exodus 34:6-7 "The Lord passed in front of Moses, calling out, 'Yahweh! the Lord! The God of compassion and mercy! I am slow to anger and filled with unfailing love and faithfulness. I lavish unfailing love to a thousand generations. I forgive iniquity, rebellion, and sin. But I do not excuse the guilty. I lay the sins of the parents upon their children and grandchildren; the entire family is affected - even children in the third and fourth generation'".
Observation:
This scripture is not a person describing God, but God describing God. When you give a self-description, it generally shows how you see yourself, which is the best description possible. God says of Himself that He is full of compassion, mercy, unfailing love. He says He is slow to anger and forgives iniquity, rebellion and sin. He goes on to say that He does not excuse the guilty and lays their sin on their generations.
Application:
God is an incredibly loving God. He loves us, forgives us, blesses us, has compassion on us, ad lavishes His love on us. He has given us access to Him directly. He desires to walk and talk with us as He did with Moses. He longs for a kingdom of priests. At the same time, He is incredibly holy and cannot allow sin into His presence. He does not excuse the guilty. He has made a way for us to be holy through the blood of His Son Jesus. Only by His blood can we be made holy. At the same time, God expects us to live a holy life through the power of Christ. many today teach that Jesus did it all, therefore we can live however we want because Jesus paid for our sins. This is very dangerous teaching because God is holy and unforgiven sin cannot come into His presence. When we sin, we must confess and forsake our sin. He is faithful to forgive and cleanse, but we must do our part.
Prayer:
Lord, You are loving, compassionate, slow to anger, yet holy and righteous. You love us, but don't want us making excuses for our sin. Teach me to walk in holiness and the fear of the Lord. Moses and the children of Israel must have feared you greatly because they saw your anger demonstrated on their enemies. Teach me to walk in holy fear and live a life that doesn't need any excuses.
I Love You Lord,
Jeff
Exodus 34:6-7 "The Lord passed in front of Moses, calling out, 'Yahweh! the Lord! The God of compassion and mercy! I am slow to anger and filled with unfailing love and faithfulness. I lavish unfailing love to a thousand generations. I forgive iniquity, rebellion, and sin. But I do not excuse the guilty. I lay the sins of the parents upon their children and grandchildren; the entire family is affected - even children in the third and fourth generation'".
Observation:
This scripture is not a person describing God, but God describing God. When you give a self-description, it generally shows how you see yourself, which is the best description possible. God says of Himself that He is full of compassion, mercy, unfailing love. He says He is slow to anger and forgives iniquity, rebellion and sin. He goes on to say that He does not excuse the guilty and lays their sin on their generations.
Application:
God is an incredibly loving God. He loves us, forgives us, blesses us, has compassion on us, ad lavishes His love on us. He has given us access to Him directly. He desires to walk and talk with us as He did with Moses. He longs for a kingdom of priests. At the same time, He is incredibly holy and cannot allow sin into His presence. He does not excuse the guilty. He has made a way for us to be holy through the blood of His Son Jesus. Only by His blood can we be made holy. At the same time, God expects us to live a holy life through the power of Christ. many today teach that Jesus did it all, therefore we can live however we want because Jesus paid for our sins. This is very dangerous teaching because God is holy and unforgiven sin cannot come into His presence. When we sin, we must confess and forsake our sin. He is faithful to forgive and cleanse, but we must do our part.
Prayer:
Lord, You are loving, compassionate, slow to anger, yet holy and righteous. You love us, but don't want us making excuses for our sin. Teach me to walk in holiness and the fear of the Lord. Moses and the children of Israel must have feared you greatly because they saw your anger demonstrated on their enemies. Teach me to walk in holy fear and live a life that doesn't need any excuses.
I Love You Lord,
Jeff
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
If It Is True
Scripture:
Exodus 33:13 "If it is true that you look favorably on me, let me know your ways so I may understand you more fully and continue to enjoy your favor. And remember that this nation is your very own people."
Observation:
Moses is speaking with the Lord. When he meets with the Lord, an actual cloud comes down on the tent he is in and everybody can see that he is meeting with the Lord. He is walking closely with the Lord and knows him more than anyone else in the camp. As he is meeting with the Lord, he says, "If it is true that you look favorably on me". He knew it was true, but was making a point. He wanted to know the Lord even more. The closer you get to the Lord our God, the more you want to get even closer.
Application:
He that knew the Lord best, wanted to know him better. He wanted to continue to see the favor on his life, but also wanted to know the Lord's ways. Moses wanted to know God more and better, though he probably walked closer to God than most would ever dream of. He had seen God bring the children of Israel out of Egypt. He saw God do mighty things, yet was even more intrigued and wanted to know Him better. Never stop wanting to know Him more! Our God is limitless and the moment you think you know Him, He will surprise you! Seek Him on a continual basis and watch His blessing flow into your life.
Prayer:
Lord, I want to know You. I want to feel what you feel, see what you see and do what you do. I want to be more like you. Let Your image be found in my life. I want your fingerprint on my life. Show me Your ways more each day and let your favor rest on my life. I long to be more fully Yours.
Jeff
Exodus 33:13 "If it is true that you look favorably on me, let me know your ways so I may understand you more fully and continue to enjoy your favor. And remember that this nation is your very own people."
Observation:
Moses is speaking with the Lord. When he meets with the Lord, an actual cloud comes down on the tent he is in and everybody can see that he is meeting with the Lord. He is walking closely with the Lord and knows him more than anyone else in the camp. As he is meeting with the Lord, he says, "If it is true that you look favorably on me". He knew it was true, but was making a point. He wanted to know the Lord even more. The closer you get to the Lord our God, the more you want to get even closer.
Application:
He that knew the Lord best, wanted to know him better. He wanted to continue to see the favor on his life, but also wanted to know the Lord's ways. Moses wanted to know God more and better, though he probably walked closer to God than most would ever dream of. He had seen God bring the children of Israel out of Egypt. He saw God do mighty things, yet was even more intrigued and wanted to know Him better. Never stop wanting to know Him more! Our God is limitless and the moment you think you know Him, He will surprise you! Seek Him on a continual basis and watch His blessing flow into your life.
Prayer:
Lord, I want to know You. I want to feel what you feel, see what you see and do what you do. I want to be more like you. Let Your image be found in my life. I want your fingerprint on my life. Show me Your ways more each day and let your favor rest on my life. I long to be more fully Yours.
Jeff
Monday, March 22, 2010
God's Desire
Scripture:
Exodus 29:46 "and they will know that I am the Lord their God. I am the one who brought them out of the land of Egypt so that I could live among them. I am the Lord their God".
Observation:
In this verse, God tells why He brought the people of Israel out of Egypt. From the beginning of time, God has wanted to be with man. He wants to live among his creation and be their God. Though God was touched by the pain of His people under the Egyptian taskmasters, there was a two-fold purpose for the Exodus. One to relieve them of their suffering and torture they were under. Second, it was to live among them and be their God.
Application:
God's desire from the beginning has been to be with man. He has always wanted to be with His creation and to be their God. He has always looked for a people that would be totally His. He has always desired a people who He can walk with and talk with and be their God and who will be His people. God's desire is to be with us. He brought us out of bondage to sin, not just to take us to heaven one day, but that we can know Him now and have a NOW relationship with Him. He wants to be our God and we need to be His people.
Prayer:
Lord, I want You to be my God and I want to be Yours completely and fully. I want to walk with You and talk with You as friend to friend. I want to hear Your heart. I want You to share your feelings with me. I want to represent You well and truly be YOURS. Separate me Lord unto Yourself more each day that I may be fully YOURS. You are my Lord and my God and I want to fulfill Your desire. Teach me to hear more accurately and follow more closely.
I Love You,
Jeff
Exodus 29:46 "and they will know that I am the Lord their God. I am the one who brought them out of the land of Egypt so that I could live among them. I am the Lord their God".
Observation:
In this verse, God tells why He brought the people of Israel out of Egypt. From the beginning of time, God has wanted to be with man. He wants to live among his creation and be their God. Though God was touched by the pain of His people under the Egyptian taskmasters, there was a two-fold purpose for the Exodus. One to relieve them of their suffering and torture they were under. Second, it was to live among them and be their God.
Application:
God's desire from the beginning has been to be with man. He has always wanted to be with His creation and to be their God. He has always looked for a people that would be totally His. He has always desired a people who He can walk with and talk with and be their God and who will be His people. God's desire is to be with us. He brought us out of bondage to sin, not just to take us to heaven one day, but that we can know Him now and have a NOW relationship with Him. He wants to be our God and we need to be His people.
Prayer:
Lord, I want You to be my God and I want to be Yours completely and fully. I want to walk with You and talk with You as friend to friend. I want to hear Your heart. I want You to share your feelings with me. I want to represent You well and truly be YOURS. Separate me Lord unto Yourself more each day that I may be fully YOURS. You are my Lord and my God and I want to fulfill Your desire. Teach me to hear more accurately and follow more closely.
I Love You,
Jeff
Friday, March 19, 2010
God's Longterm Desire
Scripture:
Exodus 19:6 "And you will be my kingdom of priests, my holy nation. This is the message you must give to the people of Israel".
Observation:
Moses is speaking with the Lord on Mount Sinai and God tells him His desires for the people of Israel. He wants them to be a kingdom of priests, His holy nation. Throughout the Old Testament, God wanted to walk and talk with His people. He desperately wanted to be their God and for them to be His people, but they continued to fail and could never be holy enough to fulfill what He wanted. He desired a people who would be totally committed to Him and Him alone.
Application:
In the New Testament we are called a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation. Now we have access to God as a priest of the most high, not by fulfilling every obligation, but by the blood of Jesus Christ. He lived the perfect life and paid the price for us to finally be what God desired from the beginning. He has always wanted a kingdom of priests and a holy nation. Now, by the blood of Jesus, it is possible. Do you see yourself as a priest? Do you see yourself as a holy nation? Do you consider yourself a person fully committed to your God? This has always been God's desire, let's be the people He desires us to be that we may be His people and He may be our God. Let's walk in constant communion with Him as the priesthood of the Most High.
Prayer:
Lord, let me live a life that pleases You in every area. Help me to spend more time with You. Keep me in constant communication with You as a priest of the Most High. I want to know You more and more. I want to learn Your ways and hear Your voice clearer every day. Show me more of Your will and plan for mankind. Lead me into Your presence more each day. I love You and want to be a priest who serves his God well.
Jeff Jacob
Exodus 19:6 "And you will be my kingdom of priests, my holy nation. This is the message you must give to the people of Israel".
Observation:
Moses is speaking with the Lord on Mount Sinai and God tells him His desires for the people of Israel. He wants them to be a kingdom of priests, His holy nation. Throughout the Old Testament, God wanted to walk and talk with His people. He desperately wanted to be their God and for them to be His people, but they continued to fail and could never be holy enough to fulfill what He wanted. He desired a people who would be totally committed to Him and Him alone.
Application:
In the New Testament we are called a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation. Now we have access to God as a priest of the most high, not by fulfilling every obligation, but by the blood of Jesus Christ. He lived the perfect life and paid the price for us to finally be what God desired from the beginning. He has always wanted a kingdom of priests and a holy nation. Now, by the blood of Jesus, it is possible. Do you see yourself as a priest? Do you see yourself as a holy nation? Do you consider yourself a person fully committed to your God? This has always been God's desire, let's be the people He desires us to be that we may be His people and He may be our God. Let's walk in constant communion with Him as the priesthood of the Most High.
Prayer:
Lord, let me live a life that pleases You in every area. Help me to spend more time with You. Keep me in constant communication with You as a priest of the Most High. I want to know You more and more. I want to learn Your ways and hear Your voice clearer every day. Show me more of Your will and plan for mankind. Lead me into Your presence more each day. I love You and want to be a priest who serves his God well.
Jeff Jacob
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Don't Wear Out
Scripture:
Exodus 18:18 "You're going to wear yourself out - and the people too. This job is too heavy a burden for you to handle all by yourself".
Observation:
Moses' father-in-law Jethro had just come for a visit and was proud of all Moses had accomplished. He was proud that they escaped the hands of the powerful Egyptian army, but saw Moses listening to the complaints of people from morning to evening every day. He was settling all disputes for a huge number of people. Jethro tells Moses, "You're going to wear yourself out - and the people too". He tells Moses that he should appoint reliable leaders to work with smaller numbers so that he will only hear the major cases.
Application:
It is better to delegate than to wear out. Just like Moses, we tend to take on more than we are capable of handling. We try hard, but only wear ourselves out. God doesn't expect us to do everything, He expects us to be wise and get the job done using all the gifts and abilities of those around us. Usually the job God gives you to do is bigger than you and you will need help to do it. He doesn't expect you to do it on your own. He expects you to find people who will help you achieve the goal He has given you.
Prayer:
Lord, teach me to raise up others to get the work done. Many times I have tried to release authority to others and it has come back to bite me. It seems every time I try, it falls back in my lap. I know right now I am to delegate some things. Help me to do what You have put in my heart. Help me to listen closer to You and to do what You say every day. Show me who is faithful and able. Let your people use their gifts and let our church grow into a healthy place that is impacting eternity for multitudes.
I Love You Lord,
Jeff
Exodus 18:18 "You're going to wear yourself out - and the people too. This job is too heavy a burden for you to handle all by yourself".
Observation:
Moses' father-in-law Jethro had just come for a visit and was proud of all Moses had accomplished. He was proud that they escaped the hands of the powerful Egyptian army, but saw Moses listening to the complaints of people from morning to evening every day. He was settling all disputes for a huge number of people. Jethro tells Moses, "You're going to wear yourself out - and the people too". He tells Moses that he should appoint reliable leaders to work with smaller numbers so that he will only hear the major cases.
Application:
It is better to delegate than to wear out. Just like Moses, we tend to take on more than we are capable of handling. We try hard, but only wear ourselves out. God doesn't expect us to do everything, He expects us to be wise and get the job done using all the gifts and abilities of those around us. Usually the job God gives you to do is bigger than you and you will need help to do it. He doesn't expect you to do it on your own. He expects you to find people who will help you achieve the goal He has given you.
Prayer:
Lord, teach me to raise up others to get the work done. Many times I have tried to release authority to others and it has come back to bite me. It seems every time I try, it falls back in my lap. I know right now I am to delegate some things. Help me to do what You have put in my heart. Help me to listen closer to You and to do what You say every day. Show me who is faithful and able. Let your people use their gifts and let our church grow into a healthy place that is impacting eternity for multitudes.
I Love You Lord,
Jeff
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Stand Still and Watch
Scripture:
Exodus 14:13-14 "But Moses told the people, 'Don't be afraid. Just stand still and watch the Lord rescue you today. The Egyptians you see today will never be seen again. The Lord Himself will fight for you. Just stay calm'".
Observation:
Moses exhibited incredible leadership and faith at this critical point. He had the Red Sea on one side and the Egyptian army on the other. Either direction looked like death, but He knew the Lord well enough to know that He would not have led them out of Egypt with mighty signs and wonders just to let them die in the wilderness. He knew by this point that God had a plan. Moses remained calm and tried to calm the people down and let them know that they were about to see an absolute miracle. All of the people of Israel had seen the plagues and how God released them from Egypt, but faith dies down when we see enemies in our rear view mirror once again. Leadership is confident in the Lord and remains calm in trials.
Application:
Faith moves the hand of God, fear stops it. God only needs one person with faith to turn major events around. Moses was the person of faith that impacted eternity through his life. I'm sure Moses was just as scared as everyone else, but he knew the Lord's faithfulness. Instead of freaking out and not knowing what to do, he says, "Stand still and watch". He knew God well enough to know that God was going to work a miracle. May our faith grow like that.
Prayer:
Lord, teach me the leadership skills of Moses. Teach me to remain confident and loyal when it seems like everything is falling apart. Help me to walk in faith and know You are in control of every detail of my life. You never cease to amaze me! Thank You for loving me. Help me to stress less and say "stand still and watch" more.
Jeff
Exodus 14:13-14 "But Moses told the people, 'Don't be afraid. Just stand still and watch the Lord rescue you today. The Egyptians you see today will never be seen again. The Lord Himself will fight for you. Just stay calm'".
Observation:
Moses exhibited incredible leadership and faith at this critical point. He had the Red Sea on one side and the Egyptian army on the other. Either direction looked like death, but He knew the Lord well enough to know that He would not have led them out of Egypt with mighty signs and wonders just to let them die in the wilderness. He knew by this point that God had a plan. Moses remained calm and tried to calm the people down and let them know that they were about to see an absolute miracle. All of the people of Israel had seen the plagues and how God released them from Egypt, but faith dies down when we see enemies in our rear view mirror once again. Leadership is confident in the Lord and remains calm in trials.
Application:
Faith moves the hand of God, fear stops it. God only needs one person with faith to turn major events around. Moses was the person of faith that impacted eternity through his life. I'm sure Moses was just as scared as everyone else, but he knew the Lord's faithfulness. Instead of freaking out and not knowing what to do, he says, "Stand still and watch". He knew God well enough to know that God was going to work a miracle. May our faith grow like that.
Prayer:
Lord, teach me the leadership skills of Moses. Teach me to remain confident and loyal when it seems like everything is falling apart. Help me to walk in faith and know You are in control of every detail of my life. You never cease to amaze me! Thank You for loving me. Help me to stress less and say "stand still and watch" more.
Jeff
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
When I See the Blood
Scripture:
Exodus 12:13 "But the blood on your doorposts will serve as a sign, marking the houses where you are staying. When I see the blood, I will pass over you. This plague of death will not touch you when I strike the land of Egypt".
Observation:
The last plague in Egypt was the death of every first-born son. This was to be the final plague that would get Pharoah's attention. The death angel would pass through Egypt and kill the firstborn of every family. The Israelites were told to put the blood of a sacrificial lamb on the doorposts and the lintel of their home. When the death angel came, if he saw the blood, he would pass over them, thus the word Passover.
Application:
This was to be an eternal observation by the Jewish people to commemorate the way God brought then out of Egyptian bondage. Jesus, the Christ, the Son of the Living God, became our Passover Lamb. John the Baptist declared of Him, "behold the lamb who takes away the sin of the world". Jesus is seen in the New Testament as the Passover Lamb. Because of our sin, we deserve judgment, but Jesus came that His blood might cause our judgment to be "Passed Over". Has the blood of Jesus been applied to the door of your heart? When God looks at you, does He see the blood of His Son? If not, make Jesus Lord of your life today. On the cross He took our punishment. Now His blood can be applied to our lives if we turn from our ways, give our lives to Him and allow Him to rule and reign our lives. This puts the blood of Jesus on the door of our heart.
Prayer:
Lord, thank you for this beautiful illustration of the Passover Lamb. Thank You for taking my sin, my cross, and my shame. Thank you for allowing Your blood to pay the price for my sin. You are amazing and I worship you with all my heart. Keep me under the blood every day of my life.
Your Son,
Jeff
Exodus 12:13 "But the blood on your doorposts will serve as a sign, marking the houses where you are staying. When I see the blood, I will pass over you. This plague of death will not touch you when I strike the land of Egypt".
Observation:
The last plague in Egypt was the death of every first-born son. This was to be the final plague that would get Pharoah's attention. The death angel would pass through Egypt and kill the firstborn of every family. The Israelites were told to put the blood of a sacrificial lamb on the doorposts and the lintel of their home. When the death angel came, if he saw the blood, he would pass over them, thus the word Passover.
Application:
This was to be an eternal observation by the Jewish people to commemorate the way God brought then out of Egyptian bondage. Jesus, the Christ, the Son of the Living God, became our Passover Lamb. John the Baptist declared of Him, "behold the lamb who takes away the sin of the world". Jesus is seen in the New Testament as the Passover Lamb. Because of our sin, we deserve judgment, but Jesus came that His blood might cause our judgment to be "Passed Over". Has the blood of Jesus been applied to the door of your heart? When God looks at you, does He see the blood of His Son? If not, make Jesus Lord of your life today. On the cross He took our punishment. Now His blood can be applied to our lives if we turn from our ways, give our lives to Him and allow Him to rule and reign our lives. This puts the blood of Jesus on the door of our heart.
Prayer:
Lord, thank you for this beautiful illustration of the Passover Lamb. Thank You for taking my sin, my cross, and my shame. Thank you for allowing Your blood to pay the price for my sin. You are amazing and I worship you with all my heart. Keep me under the blood every day of my life.
Your Son,
Jeff
Monday, March 15, 2010
A Hardened Heart
Scripture:
Exodus 9: 35 "Because his heart was hard, Pharoah refused to let the people leave, just as the Lord had predicted through Moses".
Observation:
Moses had a hardened heart and it seemed nothing would turn it around. Plagues were coming demonstrating the awesome power of God, but Pharoah still wouldn't let the people Israel leave to worship their God. He continually refused to listen to what God was trying so desperately to say.
Application:
Sometimes people get a really hard heart toward God and the Gospel. Every heart can be reached, but some are hardened, usually through hurt. A hard heart won't look at truth. It won't listen to rational thinking. A hard heart is a demonstration of pride. Pride won't allow you to do the right thing if it requires humbling yourself. Don't ever let your heart grow hard toward the things of God. Don't ever allow pride into your life. It will destroy you!
Prayer:
Lord, keep my heart soft and pliable. Keep me in the center of Your will. Let me always listen to your voice and obey immediately. Show me how to be sensitive to You and not to allow pain, pride or anything else to stop me from obeying You. I love You and trust You more every day. Thanks for all You do!
Jeff
Exodus 9: 35 "Because his heart was hard, Pharoah refused to let the people leave, just as the Lord had predicted through Moses".
Observation:
Moses had a hardened heart and it seemed nothing would turn it around. Plagues were coming demonstrating the awesome power of God, but Pharoah still wouldn't let the people Israel leave to worship their God. He continually refused to listen to what God was trying so desperately to say.
Application:
Sometimes people get a really hard heart toward God and the Gospel. Every heart can be reached, but some are hardened, usually through hurt. A hard heart won't look at truth. It won't listen to rational thinking. A hard heart is a demonstration of pride. Pride won't allow you to do the right thing if it requires humbling yourself. Don't ever let your heart grow hard toward the things of God. Don't ever allow pride into your life. It will destroy you!
Prayer:
Lord, keep my heart soft and pliable. Keep me in the center of Your will. Let me always listen to your voice and obey immediately. Show me how to be sensitive to You and not to allow pain, pride or anything else to stop me from obeying You. I love You and trust You more every day. Thanks for all You do!
Jeff
Friday, March 12, 2010
Great Turnarounds
Scripture:
Genesis 50:20 "You intended to harm me, but God intended it all for good. He brought me to this position so I could save the lives of many people".
Observation:
Joseph is talking to his brothers who sold him into slavery because of their jealousy. Their father has died and they think now Joseph is going to have them killed. They had treated him terrible and most people would have sought revenge, but Joseph saw the hand of god in everything that had happened. He understood that people's intentions cannot happen without God seeing and knowing. He realized God had turned their intentions around and used it to bless many people.
Application:
Joseph trusted God through some very difficult situations. He remained faithful when it hurt. At the end, God turned everything around and placed him in a position of authority. God is the God of great turnarounds. He can take a bad situation and use it for His glory every time. When problems come, instead of getting upset, frustrated or whatever, why not just trust that God is going to turn everything around for His glory.
Prayer:
Lord, You are the God of great turnarounds. You can turn the tide of any situation. When You come on the scene, everything changes! Teach me to trust You more each day and to walk before You humbly expecting turnarounds when bad things come my way.
Love,
Jeff
Genesis 50:20 "You intended to harm me, but God intended it all for good. He brought me to this position so I could save the lives of many people".
Observation:
Joseph is talking to his brothers who sold him into slavery because of their jealousy. Their father has died and they think now Joseph is going to have them killed. They had treated him terrible and most people would have sought revenge, but Joseph saw the hand of god in everything that had happened. He understood that people's intentions cannot happen without God seeing and knowing. He realized God had turned their intentions around and used it to bless many people.
Application:
Joseph trusted God through some very difficult situations. He remained faithful when it hurt. At the end, God turned everything around and placed him in a position of authority. God is the God of great turnarounds. He can take a bad situation and use it for His glory every time. When problems come, instead of getting upset, frustrated or whatever, why not just trust that God is going to turn everything around for His glory.
Prayer:
Lord, You are the God of great turnarounds. You can turn the tide of any situation. When You come on the scene, everything changes! Teach me to trust You more each day and to walk before You humbly expecting turnarounds when bad things come my way.
Love,
Jeff
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Generational Blessings
Scripture:
Genesis 48:20 "So Jacob blessed the boys that day with this blessing: 'The people of Israel will use your names when they give a blessing. They will say, 'May God make you as prosperous as Ephraim and Manasseh''. In this way Jacob put Ephraim ahead of Manasseh."
Observation:
Jacob had received the blessing of his father Isaac, who had received a blessing from his father Abraham. In this family, they believed in speaking a blessing from the Lord and laying on of hands with it. There is great power in the spoken word. Our tongues can be used for good or for evil and too often they get used for evil. The blessing on this family was incredible because the favor of God was on their lives, but they also knew and practiced generational blessings. They wanted their oldest ancestors to lay hands on and bless their children.
Application:
The tongue can be used for good or bad. It can build up or it can tear down. Use it to build up and bless instead of tearing down and cursing. Speak words from God over your children. Tell them they can make it in life and they will be successful. Speak prophetically into your children's lives and watch the blessings follow.
Prayer:
Lord, let me always speak positive, healthy, words that are filled with life and truth. Let my tongue be used to bring about your will. I commit myself to speaking blessings over my children. I want you to be glorified in my family.
Love,
Jeff
Genesis 48:20 "So Jacob blessed the boys that day with this blessing: 'The people of Israel will use your names when they give a blessing. They will say, 'May God make you as prosperous as Ephraim and Manasseh''. In this way Jacob put Ephraim ahead of Manasseh."
Observation:
Jacob had received the blessing of his father Isaac, who had received a blessing from his father Abraham. In this family, they believed in speaking a blessing from the Lord and laying on of hands with it. There is great power in the spoken word. Our tongues can be used for good or for evil and too often they get used for evil. The blessing on this family was incredible because the favor of God was on their lives, but they also knew and practiced generational blessings. They wanted their oldest ancestors to lay hands on and bless their children.
Application:
The tongue can be used for good or bad. It can build up or it can tear down. Use it to build up and bless instead of tearing down and cursing. Speak words from God over your children. Tell them they can make it in life and they will be successful. Speak prophetically into your children's lives and watch the blessings follow.
Prayer:
Lord, let me always speak positive, healthy, words that are filled with life and truth. Let my tongue be used to bring about your will. I commit myself to speaking blessings over my children. I want you to be glorified in my family.
Love,
Jeff
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
God Sent Me Here, Not You
Scripture:
Genesis 45:7 "God sent me ahead of you to keep you and your families alive and to preserve many survivors".
Observation:
As is normal in all the life of Joseph, he gives honor and praise to God for things that were terrible experiences. He realized that God was in control of his life and that even the bad things that are God working in our lives for our good.
Application:
It is so easy to get upset and frustrated when things don't go our way. We tend to feel like God has abandoned us because we don't see good things all around us. We feel like when things go wrong, it must not be God, but God is faithful and you can trust Him with your life. Even the bad things of life, He will turn around for good and He may have allowed them because he knew what was coming in your life and how to prepare for it. Joseph trusted God through some really bad experiences that probably would have left most of us denying God even exists. Instead, he grew from it and walked with the Lord through it all.
Prayer:
Lord, help me to trust You more in the difficult times and to pronounce Your faithfulness in good times, bad times, sad times and times when I don't even know what to do. Teach me to be a person who fully and completely trusts and knows, "God is going to work this out and I will be blessed through it". You are amazing and I love You!
Jeff Jacob
Genesis 45:7 "God sent me ahead of you to keep you and your families alive and to preserve many survivors".
Observation:
As is normal in all the life of Joseph, he gives honor and praise to God for things that were terrible experiences. He realized that God was in control of his life and that even the bad things that are God working in our lives for our good.
Application:
It is so easy to get upset and frustrated when things don't go our way. We tend to feel like God has abandoned us because we don't see good things all around us. We feel like when things go wrong, it must not be God, but God is faithful and you can trust Him with your life. Even the bad things of life, He will turn around for good and He may have allowed them because he knew what was coming in your life and how to prepare for it. Joseph trusted God through some really bad experiences that probably would have left most of us denying God even exists. Instead, he grew from it and walked with the Lord through it all.
Prayer:
Lord, help me to trust You more in the difficult times and to pronounce Your faithfulness in good times, bad times, sad times and times when I don't even know what to do. Teach me to be a person who fully and completely trusts and knows, "God is going to work this out and I will be blessed through it". You are amazing and I love You!
Jeff Jacob
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Knowing Where Your Power Comes From
Scripture:
Genesis 41:16 "'It is beyond my power to do this', Joseph replied. 'But God can tell you what it means and set you at ease'".
Observation:
Joseph understood where his strength and gifts came from. He understood that it was God who could help Pharaoh and that without God intervening, he was powerless to help in the situation. He communicated and was giving God the glory before the dream was even interpreted. This is true humility.
Application:
God works greatest through those who understand that it is not by their own goodness, their own power, or their own strength that things get accomplished. He chooses to work greatest through those who He knows will give Him all the praise and not take any glory or themselves. Joseph had no problem telling the Pharaoh, I can't do this, but God can. It didn't bother him to say "I can't". He understood his own limitations and God's powerful possibilities.
Prayer:
Lord, You are amazing! Teach me to walk in the humility of Joseph. I want people to know You and Your power. I want people to see You goodness and grace being poured out. I know I can do nothing to bring about any of this, but I also know that You are awesome and work through people who depend on You. Teach me to depend more on You and less on me.
You're the Best!
Jeff
Genesis 41:16 "'It is beyond my power to do this', Joseph replied. 'But God can tell you what it means and set you at ease'".
Observation:
Joseph understood where his strength and gifts came from. He understood that it was God who could help Pharaoh and that without God intervening, he was powerless to help in the situation. He communicated and was giving God the glory before the dream was even interpreted. This is true humility.
Application:
God works greatest through those who understand that it is not by their own goodness, their own power, or their own strength that things get accomplished. He chooses to work greatest through those who He knows will give Him all the praise and not take any glory or themselves. Joseph had no problem telling the Pharaoh, I can't do this, but God can. It didn't bother him to say "I can't". He understood his own limitations and God's powerful possibilities.
Prayer:
Lord, You are amazing! Teach me to walk in the humility of Joseph. I want people to know You and Your power. I want people to see You goodness and grace being poured out. I know I can do nothing to bring about any of this, but I also know that You are awesome and work through people who depend on You. Teach me to depend more on You and less on me.
You're the Best!
Jeff
Monday, March 8, 2010
God's Favor
Scripture:
Genesis 39:21 "But the Lord was with Joseph in the prison and showed him his faithful love. And the Lord made Joseph a favorite with the prison warden".
Observation:
The story of Joseph is my favorite story in the Bible. It is a story of God's faithfulness and His favor when someone has a right attitude in their service of Him. Joseph has been sold into slavery by his brothers, falsely accused of sexual misconduct, and now is in prison. While in prison it said that the Lord was with Joseph and showed him His faithful love. Joseph was favored by the warden and Joseph starting working his way up in the prison.
Application:
Many times when we are in the prison of life, we have a terrible attitude! We think god has forsaken us or He just doesn't love us any more. When we don't see things going our way, we tend to think God doesn't care about us any more. Joseph walked in the Lord's love and favor through terrible circumstances. He was treated awful be many different people, yet kept a good attitude through it all. God's favor fell on him and turned his tragedies into triumphs. Don't focus on your circumstances, focus on your God and you will understand that He knows your future and you can trust Him in your present.
Prayer:
Lord, let You favor be on my life. If there is anything I desire, I desire Your favor as You displayed it with Joseph. Help my attitude to be like the attitude of Joseph so that Your favor can flow. No matter what happened to him, he prospered because You were with him and showed Your favor to him. I want You with me at all times Lord. In the good times and in the bad, I want You with me.
Jeff
Genesis 39:21 "But the Lord was with Joseph in the prison and showed him his faithful love. And the Lord made Joseph a favorite with the prison warden".
Observation:
The story of Joseph is my favorite story in the Bible. It is a story of God's faithfulness and His favor when someone has a right attitude in their service of Him. Joseph has been sold into slavery by his brothers, falsely accused of sexual misconduct, and now is in prison. While in prison it said that the Lord was with Joseph and showed him His faithful love. Joseph was favored by the warden and Joseph starting working his way up in the prison.
Application:
Many times when we are in the prison of life, we have a terrible attitude! We think god has forsaken us or He just doesn't love us any more. When we don't see things going our way, we tend to think God doesn't care about us any more. Joseph walked in the Lord's love and favor through terrible circumstances. He was treated awful be many different people, yet kept a good attitude through it all. God's favor fell on him and turned his tragedies into triumphs. Don't focus on your circumstances, focus on your God and you will understand that He knows your future and you can trust Him in your present.
Prayer:
Lord, let You favor be on my life. If there is anything I desire, I desire Your favor as You displayed it with Joseph. Help my attitude to be like the attitude of Joseph so that Your favor can flow. No matter what happened to him, he prospered because You were with him and showed Your favor to him. I want You with me at all times Lord. In the good times and in the bad, I want You with me.
Jeff
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Somebody's Watching
Scripture:
Genesis 26:7 "When the men who lived there asked Isaac about his wife, Rebekah, he said, 'She is my sister.' He was afraid to say, 'She is my wife.' He thought, 'They will kill me to get her, because she is so beautiful'".
Observation:
My first observation is that Isaac is repeating the exact same mistakes his father had made. It is almost word for word description of what his father did. What Isaac saw his father do, he did! Secondly, there was a fear that went through their generations. What a father fears, his sons will fear. They were afraid of losing their beautiful wives.
Application:
What we don't deal with, will be passed on to the next generation. Abraham blew it in this exact same area. They both told lies about their wives trying to protect themselves. Abraham did it twice and here we see Isaac doing it. This was all done out of fear. Fear is the root of many wrong actions. Fear of what people think and what people will do controls many people. Instead of doing what we are suppose to do, fear causes us to do things that we know are wrong. Fear and faith are opposites. The more faith you have in God, the less you will struggle with fear.
Prayer:
Lord, let my life please You and bring You honor. I don't want my sons to live with the same fears and mistakes I make. Teach me to live the life of a conqueror, that my boys may live the same. Teach me to overcome that my boys may see an overcomer in action and live that way all their lives. Help me to be an example to my children of a godly man who is not afraid of anything.
Love,
Jeff
Genesis 26:7 "When the men who lived there asked Isaac about his wife, Rebekah, he said, 'She is my sister.' He was afraid to say, 'She is my wife.' He thought, 'They will kill me to get her, because she is so beautiful'".
Observation:
My first observation is that Isaac is repeating the exact same mistakes his father had made. It is almost word for word description of what his father did. What Isaac saw his father do, he did! Secondly, there was a fear that went through their generations. What a father fears, his sons will fear. They were afraid of losing their beautiful wives.
Application:
What we don't deal with, will be passed on to the next generation. Abraham blew it in this exact same area. They both told lies about their wives trying to protect themselves. Abraham did it twice and here we see Isaac doing it. This was all done out of fear. Fear is the root of many wrong actions. Fear of what people think and what people will do controls many people. Instead of doing what we are suppose to do, fear causes us to do things that we know are wrong. Fear and faith are opposites. The more faith you have in God, the less you will struggle with fear.
Prayer:
Lord, let my life please You and bring You honor. I don't want my sons to live with the same fears and mistakes I make. Teach me to live the life of a conqueror, that my boys may live the same. Teach me to overcome that my boys may see an overcomer in action and live that way all their lives. Help me to be an example to my children of a godly man who is not afraid of anything.
Love,
Jeff
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
What are you withholding?
Scripture:
Genesis 22:12 "'Don't lay a hand on the boy!' the angel said. 'Do not hurt him in any way, for now I know that you truly fear God. You have not withheld from me even your son, your only son'".
Observation:
Abraham had walked with God for a long time. He hadn't lived a perfect life, but he did try to do all God wanted him to. When God spoke, Abraham moved! In this instance God had told Abraham to go and offer his son, his only son Isaac as a burnt sacrifice. At the last second, while Abraham was ready to kill his son, an angel stops him and says the above referenced verse. It says that he knows that Abraham fears God because of what he did not withhold from God.
Application:
Sometimes what we won't give says more about us and our relationship to God than what we will give. Sometimes it is what we withhold from God that tells about our heart and whether we fear and honor God completely. What are the areas of your life that you have told God are off limits? What are the areas of your life that God knows you wouldn't give up for Him or to follow His call on your life? Is it security, health, family, finances? God tested Abraham to see whether he would withhold his only son and the son of promise from the Lord if he asked for him. I believe God tests those He loves to see if we are willing to follow Him completely.
Prayer:
Lord, let there be nothing in my life that I would withhold from You. I surrender all to You my Lord and my King. This is the desire of my heart, but I also know that words come cheap. In the time of testing, let me prove reliable and faithful. May I be someone You can trust who will hold nothing back from my God.
I love you Lord,
Jeff
Genesis 22:12 "'Don't lay a hand on the boy!' the angel said. 'Do not hurt him in any way, for now I know that you truly fear God. You have not withheld from me even your son, your only son'".
Observation:
Abraham had walked with God for a long time. He hadn't lived a perfect life, but he did try to do all God wanted him to. When God spoke, Abraham moved! In this instance God had told Abraham to go and offer his son, his only son Isaac as a burnt sacrifice. At the last second, while Abraham was ready to kill his son, an angel stops him and says the above referenced verse. It says that he knows that Abraham fears God because of what he did not withhold from God.
Application:
Sometimes what we won't give says more about us and our relationship to God than what we will give. Sometimes it is what we withhold from God that tells about our heart and whether we fear and honor God completely. What are the areas of your life that you have told God are off limits? What are the areas of your life that God knows you wouldn't give up for Him or to follow His call on your life? Is it security, health, family, finances? God tested Abraham to see whether he would withhold his only son and the son of promise from the Lord if he asked for him. I believe God tests those He loves to see if we are willing to follow Him completely.
Prayer:
Lord, let there be nothing in my life that I would withhold from You. I surrender all to You my Lord and my King. This is the desire of my heart, but I also know that words come cheap. In the time of testing, let me prove reliable and faithful. May I be someone You can trust who will hold nothing back from my God.
I love you Lord,
Jeff
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
There is a SET TIME!
Scripture:
Genesis 21:2 "For Sarah conceived and bore Abraham a son in his old age, at the set time of which God had spoken to him".
Observation:
God had promised Abraham that he would be the father of many nations. He told him that his seed would be as numerous as the stars in the sky or the sand on the seashore. Abraham was 100 years old and his wife Sarah was 90 when she gave birth. They had been married for decades and not been able to produce offspring. The child Isaac came at the "set time".
Application:
There is always a set time for the things God has spoken to His people. God is a god of order and process. He knows when the right time is and sometimes we rush ahead of God's process and timing. We must realize that God's timing and ours are seldom the same. We must realize that His timing is perfect and what He promises, will come to pass. This is an area of trust that we need to grow into. It is difficult to trust God when He is saying something that doesn't make sense. Trusting God and understanding that there is a "SET TIME" is crucial to following Him.
Prayer:
Lord, teach us to realize that You are a god of times and seasons. That You are in control and we don't have to rush anything. You are amazing, powerful, and nothing is too difficult for You! Teach me to slow down and let things happen in Your time because Your time is the right time!
Jeff
Genesis 21:2 "For Sarah conceived and bore Abraham a son in his old age, at the set time of which God had spoken to him".
Observation:
God had promised Abraham that he would be the father of many nations. He told him that his seed would be as numerous as the stars in the sky or the sand on the seashore. Abraham was 100 years old and his wife Sarah was 90 when she gave birth. They had been married for decades and not been able to produce offspring. The child Isaac came at the "set time".
Application:
There is always a set time for the things God has spoken to His people. God is a god of order and process. He knows when the right time is and sometimes we rush ahead of God's process and timing. We must realize that God's timing and ours are seldom the same. We must realize that His timing is perfect and what He promises, will come to pass. This is an area of trust that we need to grow into. It is difficult to trust God when He is saying something that doesn't make sense. Trusting God and understanding that there is a "SET TIME" is crucial to following Him.
Prayer:
Lord, teach us to realize that You are a god of times and seasons. That You are in control and we don't have to rush anything. You are amazing, powerful, and nothing is too difficult for You! Teach me to slow down and let things happen in Your time because Your time is the right time!
Jeff
Monday, March 1, 2010
Singled out for Generations
Scripture:
Genesis 18:19 "I have singled him out so that he will direct his sons and their families to keep the way of the Lord by doing what is right and just. Then I will do for Abraham all that I have promised".
Observation:
God is speaking to Abraham and letting him know why he was singled out. It says he was singled out so that he would direct his children and their families to keep the way of the Lord. God thinks generationally! When he wants to get something done, he will start a work in a man or woman with the intention of their children or grandchildren fulfilling His word. He sees a hundred years from now who He will need to get something done in the earth and He is already preparing your descendants by preparing you.
Application:
Sometimes we feel like our salvation is only about us, but God thinks generationally. He "IS" very interested in you, but He is also thinking about how you will raise your children and what He will need in place at a certain time in history. I know my grandmother died for several minutes and saw the Lord and was sent back to the earth to raise her four daughters. Many of my cousins are preachers today. My mother almost died having me, but God's promise remains. God let her live so that she could raise me to follow the Lord, that my life may be blessed and many would come to Christ. My children are blessed because of my grandmother and mother. I believe my children will do more for the Lord than I could ever do. God thinks generationally!
Prayer:
Lord, let us see your plan. you know what You are doing and have a purpose for all of our lives. You are building and preparing Your kingdom. We trust You have brought us to the Kingdom for such a time as this. Teach us to think generationally. Each generation can do more for your kingdom than we could ever do. Let us invest in the next generation instead of only worrying about ourselves.
Love You,
Jeff
Genesis 18:19 "I have singled him out so that he will direct his sons and their families to keep the way of the Lord by doing what is right and just. Then I will do for Abraham all that I have promised".
Observation:
God is speaking to Abraham and letting him know why he was singled out. It says he was singled out so that he would direct his children and their families to keep the way of the Lord. God thinks generationally! When he wants to get something done, he will start a work in a man or woman with the intention of their children or grandchildren fulfilling His word. He sees a hundred years from now who He will need to get something done in the earth and He is already preparing your descendants by preparing you.
Application:
Sometimes we feel like our salvation is only about us, but God thinks generationally. He "IS" very interested in you, but He is also thinking about how you will raise your children and what He will need in place at a certain time in history. I know my grandmother died for several minutes and saw the Lord and was sent back to the earth to raise her four daughters. Many of my cousins are preachers today. My mother almost died having me, but God's promise remains. God let her live so that she could raise me to follow the Lord, that my life may be blessed and many would come to Christ. My children are blessed because of my grandmother and mother. I believe my children will do more for the Lord than I could ever do. God thinks generationally!
Prayer:
Lord, let us see your plan. you know what You are doing and have a purpose for all of our lives. You are building and preparing Your kingdom. We trust You have brought us to the Kingdom for such a time as this. Teach us to think generationally. Each generation can do more for your kingdom than we could ever do. Let us invest in the next generation instead of only worrying about ourselves.
Love You,
Jeff
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