February 28th -- Joshua 2 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Joshua%202&version=NLT)
Rahab protects the spies.
So Joshua sends two spies out to scout out the land a bit. They end up staying at Rahab's house for the night. Rahab was a prostitute. Now the king finds out about the spies, and sends men to go and get them. Rahab had already hidden the men, but tells the king's men that they had left for the gates at dusk - if they hurry maybe they'll catch up. Then Rahab goes up and tells the men they all know God has given the Israelites this land, so she asks them to promise to be kind to her and her family, because she hid them. So they agree that if Rahab does not trick them, the men will make sure she and her family are spared - if they leave a scarlet rope hanging out the window and are all inside the building. So the spies do what she says and go and hide in the hill country for three days until the king stops looking, then return to Joshua to tell him all the people are afraid of them.
I find this story cool only because it has Rahab, a prostitute and clearly an unbeliever at first, hiding these men. This is even when she KNOWS they will be taking her land. She still hides them when it would have been easy to give them up to the king's men, like her king commanded her to. Now, it may seem like a fluke, but God has a plan for it all. Rahab had to be spared - she is in Jesus' line. Now, God I am sure has a reason as to why it had to be Rahab and could not have been any other woman. But this story shows that sometimes unbelievers can and will recognize God's power, and even support those who follow him, because they know they will do what is right and hope they will be kind as their God is.
Anyways that shall be all! God bless! Shalom!
Thursday, February 28, 2013
Wednesday, February 27, 2013
February 27th
February 27th -- Joshua 1 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Joshua%201&version=NLT)
God's charge to Joshua and Joshua's charge to the Israelites.
God comes to Joshua after Moses' death and says it is now his time to lead the people. He describes the boundaries of the land and explains God will always be with them there and no one will be able to stand against them there. He tells Joshua to be strong and courageous, and not to fear for God will be with them. He says to obey all the laws and he will be successful. He tells Joshua to study the Book of Instruction continually and obey it all.
Joshua then goes to the Israelite commanders and tells them to get the people to gather theit things as they will be leaving in three days. He then calls the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half-tribe of Manasseh, telling them that like Moses commanded them, that they will stay in this land. Their warriors, though, will help lead the others across the Jordan river into the rest of the land. They are to stay until God gives them rest, and then they may also cross. They tell Joshua they will do as he has commanded them to do as God told him to tell them.
Am I the only one who finds that saying Joshua will only be successful once he obeys EVERY law is a bit strict? I mean, God is perfect, so really, He should hold us to that standard. However, He also knew we were/are sinful as a whole, since the fall. I think maybe that's why He is also merciful. He KNEW Joshua and the Israelites could not be perfect - He KNEW they'd make mistakes and break rules in that book. Yet, he did not destroy them, because He KNEW they would do it and was merciful. Realizing we really are supposed to obey all those rules, and how often we don't, I become quite aware of and glad for how merciful God is. If He were not, I'd hate to think where that would leave us all...
Well, that will be all. God bless! Shalom!
God's charge to Joshua and Joshua's charge to the Israelites.
God comes to Joshua after Moses' death and says it is now his time to lead the people. He describes the boundaries of the land and explains God will always be with them there and no one will be able to stand against them there. He tells Joshua to be strong and courageous, and not to fear for God will be with them. He says to obey all the laws and he will be successful. He tells Joshua to study the Book of Instruction continually and obey it all.
Joshua then goes to the Israelite commanders and tells them to get the people to gather theit things as they will be leaving in three days. He then calls the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half-tribe of Manasseh, telling them that like Moses commanded them, that they will stay in this land. Their warriors, though, will help lead the others across the Jordan river into the rest of the land. They are to stay until God gives them rest, and then they may also cross. They tell Joshua they will do as he has commanded them to do as God told him to tell them.
Am I the only one who finds that saying Joshua will only be successful once he obeys EVERY law is a bit strict? I mean, God is perfect, so really, He should hold us to that standard. However, He also knew we were/are sinful as a whole, since the fall. I think maybe that's why He is also merciful. He KNEW Joshua and the Israelites could not be perfect - He KNEW they'd make mistakes and break rules in that book. Yet, he did not destroy them, because He KNEW they would do it and was merciful. Realizing we really are supposed to obey all those rules, and how often we don't, I become quite aware of and glad for how merciful God is. If He were not, I'd hate to think where that would leave us all...
Well, that will be all. God bless! Shalom!
Tuesday, February 26, 2013
February 26th
February 26th -- Deutoronomy 34 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deutoronomy%2034&version=NLT)
Moses' death.
So Moses, though he does not get to enter the land, climbs a mountain and is allowed to see the land. God shows it all to him, and says that that is all the land that is promised to his descendants. He will not enter it, but God has let him see it. Moses dies on Moab, there, at the age of 120 (though he was strong and had clear eyesight - I'll come back to that). Israel's people mourned on the plains for 30 days, as was customary.
Then there is Joshua, who is wise because Moses had blessed him. Israel's people obeyed him and did what God had commanded. However, there apparently has not been another prophet in Israel that compares to Moses, who God knew face-to-face. God sent Moses to perform the miraculous signs in Egypt and with God's power Moses did perform many mighty miracles and wonderful signs.
Now, the one part that really stands out to me is that Moses was 120 but "his eyesight was clear, and he was as strong as ever." (verse 7b) People in Bible times lived so much longer than we tend to now. Yes that seems like no record against some of today's modern long-livers, but the difference is Moses' mentioned strength and eyesight. He was 120 and yet his body had not diminished - it was still as if he were young and healthy. I think that must have been God's blessing to him to help him carry out all the tasks he did for God. God does really give us everything we need to do what He has asked for us - He never gives us too little and expect us to figure it out ourselves, watching in disappointment from afar. He will give us what we need when we need it, like He gave Moses the body of a younger man in order to keep going.
Well, I think that's all! God bless!
Moses' death.
So Moses, though he does not get to enter the land, climbs a mountain and is allowed to see the land. God shows it all to him, and says that that is all the land that is promised to his descendants. He will not enter it, but God has let him see it. Moses dies on Moab, there, at the age of 120 (though he was strong and had clear eyesight - I'll come back to that). Israel's people mourned on the plains for 30 days, as was customary.
Then there is Joshua, who is wise because Moses had blessed him. Israel's people obeyed him and did what God had commanded. However, there apparently has not been another prophet in Israel that compares to Moses, who God knew face-to-face. God sent Moses to perform the miraculous signs in Egypt and with God's power Moses did perform many mighty miracles and wonderful signs.
Now, the one part that really stands out to me is that Moses was 120 but "his eyesight was clear, and he was as strong as ever." (verse 7b) People in Bible times lived so much longer than we tend to now. Yes that seems like no record against some of today's modern long-livers, but the difference is Moses' mentioned strength and eyesight. He was 120 and yet his body had not diminished - it was still as if he were young and healthy. I think that must have been God's blessing to him to help him carry out all the tasks he did for God. God does really give us everything we need to do what He has asked for us - He never gives us too little and expect us to figure it out ourselves, watching in disappointment from afar. He will give us what we need when we need it, like He gave Moses the body of a younger man in order to keep going.
Well, I think that's all! God bless!
Monday, February 25, 2013
February 25th
February 25th -- Deutoronomy 31:1-8 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deutoronomy%2031:1-8&version=NLT)
Joshua becomes Israel's new leader.
After Moses gives out the many instructions he has to, he tells them he will no longer be their leader -God Himself has told him this. He says God will destroy the nations currently in the land and He will hand the people over to the Israelites, who must follow the commands they were given in how to deal with them. He tells them to be strong and courageous, because God will go before them and He will never fail or abandon them.
Moses then calls Joshua up. And told him, in front of all of Israel, that he will be the one leading the people into the land, so he must stay strong. He will also be the one to divide it up to the people based on their grants to the land. But don't be afraid because God will be going before him.
So, I really don't have much to say about this passage.... oh, except it has one of my favorite verses. "So be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid and do not panic before them. For the Lord your God will personally go ahead of you. He will neither fail nor abandon you." I know in this case it is to the Israelites applying to the nations in the land currently, but I know it also applies to us today when we face our problems and "enemies". It's comforting to remember that God has gone before us and He knows what will happen and He'll never let us down - He'll help us pull through.
So, that shall be all. :) God bless!!!!
Joshua becomes Israel's new leader.
After Moses gives out the many instructions he has to, he tells them he will no longer be their leader -God Himself has told him this. He says God will destroy the nations currently in the land and He will hand the people over to the Israelites, who must follow the commands they were given in how to deal with them. He tells them to be strong and courageous, because God will go before them and He will never fail or abandon them.
Moses then calls Joshua up. And told him, in front of all of Israel, that he will be the one leading the people into the land, so he must stay strong. He will also be the one to divide it up to the people based on their grants to the land. But don't be afraid because God will be going before him.
So, I really don't have much to say about this passage.... oh, except it has one of my favorite verses. "So be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid and do not panic before them. For the Lord your God will personally go ahead of you. He will neither fail nor abandon you." I know in this case it is to the Israelites applying to the nations in the land currently, but I know it also applies to us today when we face our problems and "enemies". It's comforting to remember that God has gone before us and He knows what will happen and He'll never let us down - He'll help us pull through.
So, that shall be all. :) God bless!!!!
Sunday, February 24, 2013
February 24th
February 24th -- Deutoronomy 30 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deuteronomy%2030&version=NLT)
A call to return to the Lord and a choice of life or death.
After repeating all the instructions of the covenant to the Israelites, Moses speaks on the time when they will experience both those blessings and curses. He says that when they do, if they truly turn back to God then God will restore them, have mercy on them, and gather them back from where they had been scattered - even if that had beent he ends of the earth. He says God will return them to the land He gave them and they will be even more prosperous then than their ancesstors were. He goes on to say He will change their hearts so they and their ancestors shall love Him and it is their enemies who will face these curses. He also says that then God will make them successful in all they do. God delights in those who obey Him.
Now, Moses goes on to say that really, it isn't a hard command to understand. He is giving them, though, the choice between life and death. He says that they are being commanded to love God and follow His commandments - those who do choose life and blessings but those who do not choose death and destruction. He says that heaven and earth will be the witnesses of the choice they make between life/blessings and death/curses. He also throws in that he hopes they choose life. He then repeats that loving God and committing firmly to Him is the key to life and if they do both (love and obey) they will live long in the land God gave to their ancestors.
Now, I find that the part about God delighting in those who obey Him stood out a fair bit. Maybe that's just because I needed to hear it. Because *warning actually putting in some stuff about me and my life* I tend to feel lonely a lot of the time. I can sit in a whole room of people and feel completely alone. Now, a lot of the time that I don't get along with someone well is because we have very different moral values that tend to cause us to disagree or fight. My values are the Biblically based ones and theirs are not so much. So, mine are the ones that cause me to obey God on those matters. Now, I feel VERY segregated and lonely a lot of the times because of that. I was actually quite upset over the matter earlier due to some things that kind of made it all come bubbling to the surface. So seeing verse 10 ("The Lord your God will delight in you if you obey His commands and...") gave me a great sense of peace. God will bless me for those times. *turning off personal stuff now* God bless those of us who keep His commands and commit to Him and really turn our hearts and souls to Him. He will bless us for doing what is right. So when you feel alone or attacked or just like you don't fit in because you did the right thing, remember that - you may be hurting now, but God WILL bless you for it. So CHOOSE LIFE and BE BLESSED! ☺
Well, I think that will be all!
Shalom!
God bless!
A call to return to the Lord and a choice of life or death.
After repeating all the instructions of the covenant to the Israelites, Moses speaks on the time when they will experience both those blessings and curses. He says that when they do, if they truly turn back to God then God will restore them, have mercy on them, and gather them back from where they had been scattered - even if that had beent he ends of the earth. He says God will return them to the land He gave them and they will be even more prosperous then than their ancesstors were. He goes on to say He will change their hearts so they and their ancestors shall love Him and it is their enemies who will face these curses. He also says that then God will make them successful in all they do. God delights in those who obey Him.
Now, Moses goes on to say that really, it isn't a hard command to understand. He is giving them, though, the choice between life and death. He says that they are being commanded to love God and follow His commandments - those who do choose life and blessings but those who do not choose death and destruction. He says that heaven and earth will be the witnesses of the choice they make between life/blessings and death/curses. He also throws in that he hopes they choose life. He then repeats that loving God and committing firmly to Him is the key to life and if they do both (love and obey) they will live long in the land God gave to their ancestors.
Now, I find that the part about God delighting in those who obey Him stood out a fair bit. Maybe that's just because I needed to hear it. Because *warning actually putting in some stuff about me and my life* I tend to feel lonely a lot of the time. I can sit in a whole room of people and feel completely alone. Now, a lot of the time that I don't get along with someone well is because we have very different moral values that tend to cause us to disagree or fight. My values are the Biblically based ones and theirs are not so much. So, mine are the ones that cause me to obey God on those matters. Now, I feel VERY segregated and lonely a lot of the times because of that. I was actually quite upset over the matter earlier due to some things that kind of made it all come bubbling to the surface. So seeing verse 10 ("The Lord your God will delight in you if you obey His commands and...") gave me a great sense of peace. God will bless me for those times. *turning off personal stuff now* God bless those of us who keep His commands and commit to Him and really turn our hearts and souls to Him. He will bless us for doing what is right. So when you feel alone or attacked or just like you don't fit in because you did the right thing, remember that - you may be hurting now, but God WILL bless you for it. So CHOOSE LIFE and BE BLESSED! ☺
Well, I think that will be all!
Shalom!
God bless!
Saturday, February 23, 2013
February 23rd
February 23rd -- Deutoronomy 29 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deutoronomy%2029&version=NLT)
Moses reviews the covenant.
Moses brings all the Israelites together. He reminds them all of all the incredible miracles they have witnessed, but points out that they still do not have faith, even after God has kept them alive wandering for forty years.
Moses goes on a bit more, basically to get to this : Obey the covenant to prosper. He explains that they are here today to enter into God's covenant, and by doing so they will be established as God's chosen people. He also says that this covenant is being made with them AND their future generations. He says he is making the covenant so they will not turn away from God
Moses also warns them. He reminds them that if they break this covenant, they will be punished, so much so that people will look down on them and pity them. He says that we aren't accountable for the secrets God has, but we ARE accountable for what He HAS shown/told us. This includes the covenant.
I find this sort of interesting, because in a way, it's like the Israelites are sort of being forced into this covenant. They also can't back out, really, because of all the punishment for them if they break it.... but I think this passage undermines how incredible a gift it is to be set aside as God's chosen people - ESPECIALLY after all the times they were disobedient and rebellious.
Really, what this goes to show, is that even though we don't always agree with God, He knows best in the end. :)
That shall be all.... God bless!
Moses reviews the covenant.
Moses brings all the Israelites together. He reminds them all of all the incredible miracles they have witnessed, but points out that they still do not have faith, even after God has kept them alive wandering for forty years.
Moses goes on a bit more, basically to get to this : Obey the covenant to prosper. He explains that they are here today to enter into God's covenant, and by doing so they will be established as God's chosen people. He also says that this covenant is being made with them AND their future generations. He says he is making the covenant so they will not turn away from God
Moses also warns them. He reminds them that if they break this covenant, they will be punished, so much so that people will look down on them and pity them. He says that we aren't accountable for the secrets God has, but we ARE accountable for what He HAS shown/told us. This includes the covenant.
I find this sort of interesting, because in a way, it's like the Israelites are sort of being forced into this covenant. They also can't back out, really, because of all the punishment for them if they break it.... but I think this passage undermines how incredible a gift it is to be set aside as God's chosen people - ESPECIALLY after all the times they were disobedient and rebellious.
Really, what this goes to show, is that even though we don't always agree with God, He knows best in the end. :)
That shall be all.... God bless!
Friday, February 22, 2013
February 22nd
February 22nd -- Numbers 22:5-38 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Numbers%2022:5-38&version=NLT)
This passage is talking about a guy named Baalam... who I assume came into play before this section.... so I guess background knowledge isn't important, though.
What seems to be going on is that the Israelites have showed up near Moab, and the King has called in Baalam to curse them because they are too powerful for him right now, but if they are cursed he can overpower them and drive them out. Balak's (the King's) messengers go out to find Baalam with money to pay him for the curse. Balaam told them to stay overnight when they found him, saying that in the morning he will tell them what the Lord has told him to say.
That night, God comes to Balaam and asks who the men are. Balaam explains they are here to bring him to drive out those people. God says not to, for those people are blessed. So in the morning, Baalam sends the officials back, saying God said he could not go.
When the messengers/officials get back to the king, instead of giving up, he sends more back. The men repeat the order to come, and Balaam tells them to stay the night and see if God has anything to say. God tells him to go, but only obey whatever commands God gives him.
But the next morning, he goes ahead and saddles up and leaves without God's say-so. God becomes mad and sends an angel to stand on the road. He does not let the people see it, only Balaam's donket. The donkey runs off. Balaam catches it, though, beats it, and brings it back to the road. This happens again, but Balaam again beats the donkey to pass. Finally the angel finds a spot they cannot pass, and the donkey simply lays down under Balaam, and he beats it to get up.
God then lets the donkey speak, who asks Balaam why he deserved to be beaten three times. Balaam says he donkey made him look like a fool but the donkey points out he never has done that before. Balaam admits he hasn't, and then the Lord lets Balaam see the angel in the way. Then the angel asks why he beat the donkey, because he explains that three times God was trying to stop him, and three times Balaam tried to go ahead anyways. Balaam confesses that he has sinned, but promises to do as told from then on. He is told to carry on, so he does. The deal is, though, that he may only say what God wants him to, which he explains upon arriving. The next morning, Balaam is brought up to Bamoth-baal, where he can look over the people of Israel.
I think the main thing that stood out to me from this, is that God does send us signs. When we're being disobedient, he doesn't just leave us to walk into trouble and hurt for it. He sends us little signals and warnings to tell us we're getting into trouble. It may not be hugely clear, but you will notice them if you are paying attention. So we have to be on guard, at all times, when trying to follow God's path, to see if we are on the right track or finding little warning signs.
Well, I think that will be all.
God bless!
This passage is talking about a guy named Baalam... who I assume came into play before this section.... so I guess background knowledge isn't important, though.
What seems to be going on is that the Israelites have showed up near Moab, and the King has called in Baalam to curse them because they are too powerful for him right now, but if they are cursed he can overpower them and drive them out. Balak's (the King's) messengers go out to find Baalam with money to pay him for the curse. Balaam told them to stay overnight when they found him, saying that in the morning he will tell them what the Lord has told him to say.
That night, God comes to Balaam and asks who the men are. Balaam explains they are here to bring him to drive out those people. God says not to, for those people are blessed. So in the morning, Baalam sends the officials back, saying God said he could not go.
When the messengers/officials get back to the king, instead of giving up, he sends more back. The men repeat the order to come, and Balaam tells them to stay the night and see if God has anything to say. God tells him to go, but only obey whatever commands God gives him.
But the next morning, he goes ahead and saddles up and leaves without God's say-so. God becomes mad and sends an angel to stand on the road. He does not let the people see it, only Balaam's donket. The donkey runs off. Balaam catches it, though, beats it, and brings it back to the road. This happens again, but Balaam again beats the donkey to pass. Finally the angel finds a spot they cannot pass, and the donkey simply lays down under Balaam, and he beats it to get up.
God then lets the donkey speak, who asks Balaam why he deserved to be beaten three times. Balaam says he donkey made him look like a fool but the donkey points out he never has done that before. Balaam admits he hasn't, and then the Lord lets Balaam see the angel in the way. Then the angel asks why he beat the donkey, because he explains that three times God was trying to stop him, and three times Balaam tried to go ahead anyways. Balaam confesses that he has sinned, but promises to do as told from then on. He is told to carry on, so he does. The deal is, though, that he may only say what God wants him to, which he explains upon arriving. The next morning, Balaam is brought up to Bamoth-baal, where he can look over the people of Israel.
I think the main thing that stood out to me from this, is that God does send us signs. When we're being disobedient, he doesn't just leave us to walk into trouble and hurt for it. He sends us little signals and warnings to tell us we're getting into trouble. It may not be hugely clear, but you will notice them if you are paying attention. So we have to be on guard, at all times, when trying to follow God's path, to see if we are on the right track or finding little warning signs.
Well, I think that will be all.
God bless!
Thursday, February 21, 2013
February 21st
February 21st -- Numbers 21:4-9 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Numbers%2021:4-9&version=NLT)
The Bronze Snake.
So later on in the journey, the people of Israel yet again doubt. They complain to God, asking why He brought them there to die. They also complain about the manna. So, God sends snakes and many people were bitten and died from their poison.
Moses agains has to plead for the people. He does, and God listens. He tells Moses to make a replice of a snake and attach it to a pole and whoever looks at it will be healed. Moses does this and some people do end up saved by this, I assume.
I really don't know what to get from this.... as much as God punishes us, sometimes He will see how truly sorry we are and lighten up? I don't know. I'm sorry. This was just not much for a reading... that's all. XD
God bless!
The Bronze Snake.
So later on in the journey, the people of Israel yet again doubt. They complain to God, asking why He brought them there to die. They also complain about the manna. So, God sends snakes and many people were bitten and died from their poison.
Moses agains has to plead for the people. He does, and God listens. He tells Moses to make a replice of a snake and attach it to a pole and whoever looks at it will be healed. Moses does this and some people do end up saved by this, I assume.
I really don't know what to get from this.... as much as God punishes us, sometimes He will see how truly sorry we are and lighten up? I don't know. I'm sorry. This was just not much for a reading... that's all. XD
God bless!
Wednesday, February 20, 2013
February 20th
February 20th -- Numbers 14:5-45 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Numbers%2014:5-45&version=NLT)
The people rebel and Moses intercedes for them, but God still punishes them.
Aaron and Moses try pleading with the people, which leads Caleb and Joshua to also plead. They explain it's a great land and God has promised it to them, so they need to not doubt the Lord! This doesn't do anything, though. so God's presence comes down to the Tabernacle. He says that for their contempt He will destroy them.
Moses objects, reminding God that if He destroys them, the natios will doubt Him, saying He did it because He could not deliver them like He promised. Moses pleads for God to instead show them that He is as powerful as He says and forgive the people and lead them out of this wilderness. God agrees, but He also says not any one of the people currently here will enter that land, because they doubt still. Caleb, He says, for having a different attitude, will be the only one to enter that land.
Then God punishes the Israelites, saying none of them will enter the Holy Land. He also says that because they wandered for forty days in the land they were promised, they will wander for forty years in the wilderness. The ten men who had explored and incited the rebellion after were struck dead with a plague. The people then go up and try and apologize, saying they are ready to enter the land now. Moses warns them not to try, as God has said they cannot, now, for forty years. They do anyways and are chased a long way away to Hormah.
So, well, really, I don't know what to say for this....
On second thought, here's one thought:
God may forgive us for our sins, or somethign we did wrong, but He may still also punish us for it. He needs us to learn, and the only way we seem to do that is punishment. If He just forgave us every time with no consequence, we'd really have no reason to stop sinning. So, don't think "oh, no, I'm safe, because God forgave me." but instead remember God will still punish you. He's not just gonna' give up teaching you a lesson - the faster you learn it, the sooner it's over with!
That's all! God bless!
The people rebel and Moses intercedes for them, but God still punishes them.
Aaron and Moses try pleading with the people, which leads Caleb and Joshua to also plead. They explain it's a great land and God has promised it to them, so they need to not doubt the Lord! This doesn't do anything, though. so God's presence comes down to the Tabernacle. He says that for their contempt He will destroy them.
Moses objects, reminding God that if He destroys them, the natios will doubt Him, saying He did it because He could not deliver them like He promised. Moses pleads for God to instead show them that He is as powerful as He says and forgive the people and lead them out of this wilderness. God agrees, but He also says not any one of the people currently here will enter that land, because they doubt still. Caleb, He says, for having a different attitude, will be the only one to enter that land.
Then God punishes the Israelites, saying none of them will enter the Holy Land. He also says that because they wandered for forty days in the land they were promised, they will wander for forty years in the wilderness. The ten men who had explored and incited the rebellion after were struck dead with a plague. The people then go up and try and apologize, saying they are ready to enter the land now. Moses warns them not to try, as God has said they cannot, now, for forty years. They do anyways and are chased a long way away to Hormah.
So, well, really, I don't know what to say for this....
On second thought, here's one thought:
God may forgive us for our sins, or somethign we did wrong, but He may still also punish us for it. He needs us to learn, and the only way we seem to do that is punishment. If He just forgave us every time with no consequence, we'd really have no reason to stop sinning. So, don't think "oh, no, I'm safe, because God forgave me." but instead remember God will still punish you. He's not just gonna' give up teaching you a lesson - the faster you learn it, the sooner it's over with!
That's all! God bless!
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
February 19th
February 19th -- Numbers 13:1-14:4 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Numbers%2013:1-14:4&version=NLT)
Twelve scouts explore Canaan and the people begin to rebel.
So Moses, at God's command, sends out a leader from each of the twelve tribes to go and explore Canaan. He tells them basically to go and examine the land and report back to him. The men go out and follow the route Moses gave them and explored the land for forty days, the returned. They describe it as a bountiful land, "flowing with milk and honey". However, the men also report giants and say the men are strong and will be hard to conquer.
For some reason, Caleb, one of the men who went to explore, thinks they can conquer it, while the other 11 disagree. The word of the other 11 spread like wildfire, about how the land is filled with giants and they will never be able to overtake it.
This stirs up rebellion in the people, who begin crying out and asking why God would bring them out of Egypt just to have them die in battle. They begin plotting, then, to choose a new leader.
Now, can I just say, that this kind of really frustrates me? God brought these people out of Egypt and has fed them fromt he sky every day since. He has provided this whole time and they have witnessed so many incredibly miracles... and yet they have the gall to doubt Him? It astounds me... then again, I guess I'm a bit hypocritical in saying that... I had a point in my life where I doubted and disbelieved... mind you, I think if I'd seen any of those miracles I'd have jumped right back on the bandwagon. Haha.
Also, this shows how careful we must be with words and gossip. Those few words became that juicy bit of gossip. Everyone wanted to hear about the terrible giants in the land. How incredible it was was forgotten, as well as God's promise to give it to them, as people focused on the stories of the ever-growing giant men and terrible beasts (well, okay maybe not beasts haha) that lived there and would kill them all in battle. This was all because a little bit of truth got a little out of hand and each time it was passed on, a little more lie was mixed in, until it became a fish tale. That tiny little rock bass became a two-foot musky. So, be careful with your words, and don't spread gossip's fire - squash it out.
That is all for tonight, folks! God bless! :D
Twelve scouts explore Canaan and the people begin to rebel.
So Moses, at God's command, sends out a leader from each of the twelve tribes to go and explore Canaan. He tells them basically to go and examine the land and report back to him. The men go out and follow the route Moses gave them and explored the land for forty days, the returned. They describe it as a bountiful land, "flowing with milk and honey". However, the men also report giants and say the men are strong and will be hard to conquer.
For some reason, Caleb, one of the men who went to explore, thinks they can conquer it, while the other 11 disagree. The word of the other 11 spread like wildfire, about how the land is filled with giants and they will never be able to overtake it.
This stirs up rebellion in the people, who begin crying out and asking why God would bring them out of Egypt just to have them die in battle. They begin plotting, then, to choose a new leader.
Now, can I just say, that this kind of really frustrates me? God brought these people out of Egypt and has fed them fromt he sky every day since. He has provided this whole time and they have witnessed so many incredibly miracles... and yet they have the gall to doubt Him? It astounds me... then again, I guess I'm a bit hypocritical in saying that... I had a point in my life where I doubted and disbelieved... mind you, I think if I'd seen any of those miracles I'd have jumped right back on the bandwagon. Haha.
Also, this shows how careful we must be with words and gossip. Those few words became that juicy bit of gossip. Everyone wanted to hear about the terrible giants in the land. How incredible it was was forgotten, as well as God's promise to give it to them, as people focused on the stories of the ever-growing giant men and terrible beasts (well, okay maybe not beasts haha) that lived there and would kill them all in battle. This was all because a little bit of truth got a little out of hand and each time it was passed on, a little more lie was mixed in, until it became a fish tale. That tiny little rock bass became a two-foot musky. So, be careful with your words, and don't spread gossip's fire - squash it out.
That is all for tonight, folks! God bless! :D
Monday, February 18, 2013
February 18th
February 18th -- Numbers 12:1-16 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Numbers%2012&version=NLT)
Aaron and Miriam's complaints.
So Moses, before where we are now in the Bible storyline, had married a Cushite woman, which left Miriam and Aaron rather unimpressed. They remarked that yes, God has spoken through Moses, but hadn't He also spoken through them? God, though, hears them.
God calls the three of them (Moses, Aaron, and Miriam) to the Tabernacle. When they arrive He descends on the Tabernacle in a pillar of cloud and calls Aaron and Miriam forward. God demands of them why they would criticize Moses, when he is the one who God trusts and speaks with face-to-face. God was angry, so He left, leaving Miriam with leprosy. Aaron is horrified and pleads with Moses not to punish them. Moses begs God, and God tells Moses that it will only last for seven days, so they must keep her out of the camp for seven days and then she may return. So everyone waited the seven days while Miriam was outside camp and then after the seven days they began travelling again.
Now, this is a perfect example of how dangerous jealousy can be. Really, what it comes down to, it seems, is that Aaron and Miriam seem to be jealous of Moses, for he is so recognized and they are not, though God has spoken through them, too. Also, Moses seems to be favored by God, as they have spoken face to face. I think Aaron and Miriam were just feeling a little underappreciated, like when the one start member of a sports team takes all the credit and the other members end up getting jealous.
Also, it seems that they were doubting Moses because of his choice to marry a Cushite woman. Really, this goes to show how important it is that we remember we are only in charge of our own lives and choices - everyone else's are their own business, and if they do wrong by God, they will have to be the ones to take it up with Him. We should not criticize them for their choices, like Miriam and Aaron did to Moses for his. God doesn't like it when we do.
So, um, I think that's all.... God bless!
Aaron and Miriam's complaints.
So Moses, before where we are now in the Bible storyline, had married a Cushite woman, which left Miriam and Aaron rather unimpressed. They remarked that yes, God has spoken through Moses, but hadn't He also spoken through them? God, though, hears them.
God calls the three of them (Moses, Aaron, and Miriam) to the Tabernacle. When they arrive He descends on the Tabernacle in a pillar of cloud and calls Aaron and Miriam forward. God demands of them why they would criticize Moses, when he is the one who God trusts and speaks with face-to-face. God was angry, so He left, leaving Miriam with leprosy. Aaron is horrified and pleads with Moses not to punish them. Moses begs God, and God tells Moses that it will only last for seven days, so they must keep her out of the camp for seven days and then she may return. So everyone waited the seven days while Miriam was outside camp and then after the seven days they began travelling again.
Now, this is a perfect example of how dangerous jealousy can be. Really, what it comes down to, it seems, is that Aaron and Miriam seem to be jealous of Moses, for he is so recognized and they are not, though God has spoken through them, too. Also, Moses seems to be favored by God, as they have spoken face to face. I think Aaron and Miriam were just feeling a little underappreciated, like when the one start member of a sports team takes all the credit and the other members end up getting jealous.
Also, it seems that they were doubting Moses because of his choice to marry a Cushite woman. Really, this goes to show how important it is that we remember we are only in charge of our own lives and choices - everyone else's are their own business, and if they do wrong by God, they will have to be the ones to take it up with Him. We should not criticize them for their choices, like Miriam and Aaron did to Moses for his. God doesn't like it when we do.
So, um, I think that's all.... God bless!
February 17th
February 17th -- Exodus 40 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Exodus%2040&version=NLT)
The Tabernacle is built and the Lord's presence fills it.
God commands Moses to set up the Tabernacle on the first day of the new year, place the Ark of the Covenant inside, and put up a curtain to enclose the Most Holy Place that has the Ark. Then he is to set up the rest of it (tables and lamps for example). God gives him very specific instructions on how to do all this (I don't feel like repeating them all).
After the Tabenacle is set up, Moses is to present Aaron and his sons,wash them, dress them in special garments (different for Aaron and his sons), consecrate them, then anoint them. Then Aaron and his descendants will forever be set apart for priesthood. Moses did all this.
On the second day of the first month of the second year, Moses sets up the Tabernacle again. He took the stone tablets with the covenant's terms and put them inside the Ark of the Covenant. He then set up the Ark and curtain (to separate the Most Holy Place) as God had commanded him. He also set up the rest of the Tabernacle like God had commanded, being sure of all the specifics.
When Moses was down, a cloud came and covered the Tabernacle and God's glory filled it. Moses couldn't even enter it because of the cloud covered it and God's glory had filled it. The cloud would stay until the people of Israel were meant to travel again, and then they would follow the cloud. The cloud was there by day, but at night fire glowed in it so everyone could see it. This happened the whole time they journeyed.
I just find the cloud part of this so cool. I mean, imagine seeing a symbol of God's glory, and watching fire burn in a cloud to make it glow at night. It's incredible. We really do have just such as incredible God...
Uhm, not much of my own thoughts, but that'll be all.
God bless!
P.S. This was indeed a day late - not really an excuse but I wasn't home until later from my cousin's birthday party, then my family's show we watch together was on, and by the time I had time for this, it had completely slipped my mind. Today's post will be up later today. :)
The Tabernacle is built and the Lord's presence fills it.
God commands Moses to set up the Tabernacle on the first day of the new year, place the Ark of the Covenant inside, and put up a curtain to enclose the Most Holy Place that has the Ark. Then he is to set up the rest of it (tables and lamps for example). God gives him very specific instructions on how to do all this (I don't feel like repeating them all).
After the Tabenacle is set up, Moses is to present Aaron and his sons,wash them, dress them in special garments (different for Aaron and his sons), consecrate them, then anoint them. Then Aaron and his descendants will forever be set apart for priesthood. Moses did all this.
On the second day of the first month of the second year, Moses sets up the Tabernacle again. He took the stone tablets with the covenant's terms and put them inside the Ark of the Covenant. He then set up the Ark and curtain (to separate the Most Holy Place) as God had commanded him. He also set up the rest of the Tabernacle like God had commanded, being sure of all the specifics.
When Moses was down, a cloud came and covered the Tabernacle and God's glory filled it. Moses couldn't even enter it because of the cloud covered it and God's glory had filled it. The cloud would stay until the people of Israel were meant to travel again, and then they would follow the cloud. The cloud was there by day, but at night fire glowed in it so everyone could see it. This happened the whole time they journeyed.
I just find the cloud part of this so cool. I mean, imagine seeing a symbol of God's glory, and watching fire burn in a cloud to make it glow at night. It's incredible. We really do have just such as incredible God...
Uhm, not much of my own thoughts, but that'll be all.
God bless!
P.S. This was indeed a day late - not really an excuse but I wasn't home until later from my cousin's birthday party, then my family's show we watch together was on, and by the time I had time for this, it had completely slipped my mind. Today's post will be up later today. :)
Saturday, February 16, 2013
February 16th
February 16th -- Exodus 32:1-29 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Exodus%2032:1-29&version=NLT)
The Gold Calf
So, despite all the reasons and logic against this, the Israelites build a gold calf. This is after being told not to worship idols and it is because they doubt Moses, even though God had used him to deliver them from Israel and keep them alive thus far. They go ahead, though, and turn all their jewellery into a big gold calf and begin to worship it, saying it was what got them out of Egypt. They sacrificed and celebrated.
Moses, up on the mountain at that time, gets sent back down by God. He knows that they are worshipping an idol, and He says basically he will destroy them for it because they have been so stubborn and rebellious, still. He basically tells Moses he's wiping everyone out except him, who will be the start of a great nation.
Moses, however, pleads with God. He reminds God of the promises He made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, about their descendants taking this land and being numerous. God agrees, after Moses pleading, not to go through with the disaster.
Moses then goes back down the hill with two stone tablets. Moses is so angry when he sees what's going on that he smashes he tablets and burns the calf (and then grinds it into dust and scatters that into the water). Moses asks Aaron, of course, what happened. Aaron basically says they insisted on having a god soe he gave them one.
Now, Moses calls over "all who are on the Lord's side", and all the Levites come. He informs them of God's command, which is to go through the whole camp with swords and kill everyone (family and friends included), causing the deaths of 3,000 people. The Levites ordain themselves and recieve a blessing by doing this, as God commanded.
Really, you gotta' feel bad for Moses and the Levites in this situation. Moses is the bearer of terrible news (you have to go kill everyone) and the Levites have to carry out that awful command. I can't even imagine how horrible that would be - taking the life of someone I love. I haveno idea how they had the strength to do that. Also, I see know why the Levites had such respect....
Also, as much as we look at the Israelites and go "YOU'RE ALL IDIOTS WHAT ARE YOU DOING????" We repeat their actions every day. Our "idols" are sometimes money, food, friends, our body, or even a significant other. We continually put things before God, yet He still loves us. And so why doesn't He just strike us down, then? Moses interceded for Israel. Well, we, thank goodness, had Jesus intercede for us when He died on the cross bearing each and every one of our sins. May I just say that's good, because otherwise we'd be in some serious trouble. I mess up more times than I can count every day, so I would hate to see what God would do to me for it without Jesus having died for me. It really puts a new perspective on this story, I think, when you look at it that way...
Well, I believe that will be all. God bless!
Remember, if you ever need to talk to anyone, or need prayer for any reason, PLEASE come talk to me. I have a Tumblr account with a message feature that works even if you're not a Tumblr user. Just go to http://emdaisy1.tumblr.com/ask to talk to me. Then go to http://emdaisy1.tumblr.com to see if I have answered (or http://emdaisy1.tumblr.com/archive if it was a while between when you messaged me and checked because that will help you find older stuff a lot faster).
The Gold Calf
So, despite all the reasons and logic against this, the Israelites build a gold calf. This is after being told not to worship idols and it is because they doubt Moses, even though God had used him to deliver them from Israel and keep them alive thus far. They go ahead, though, and turn all their jewellery into a big gold calf and begin to worship it, saying it was what got them out of Egypt. They sacrificed and celebrated.
Moses, up on the mountain at that time, gets sent back down by God. He knows that they are worshipping an idol, and He says basically he will destroy them for it because they have been so stubborn and rebellious, still. He basically tells Moses he's wiping everyone out except him, who will be the start of a great nation.
Moses, however, pleads with God. He reminds God of the promises He made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, about their descendants taking this land and being numerous. God agrees, after Moses pleading, not to go through with the disaster.
Moses then goes back down the hill with two stone tablets. Moses is so angry when he sees what's going on that he smashes he tablets and burns the calf (and then grinds it into dust and scatters that into the water). Moses asks Aaron, of course, what happened. Aaron basically says they insisted on having a god soe he gave them one.
Now, Moses calls over "all who are on the Lord's side", and all the Levites come. He informs them of God's command, which is to go through the whole camp with swords and kill everyone (family and friends included), causing the deaths of 3,000 people. The Levites ordain themselves and recieve a blessing by doing this, as God commanded.
Really, you gotta' feel bad for Moses and the Levites in this situation. Moses is the bearer of terrible news (you have to go kill everyone) and the Levites have to carry out that awful command. I can't even imagine how horrible that would be - taking the life of someone I love. I haveno idea how they had the strength to do that. Also, I see know why the Levites had such respect....
Also, as much as we look at the Israelites and go "YOU'RE ALL IDIOTS WHAT ARE YOU DOING????" We repeat their actions every day. Our "idols" are sometimes money, food, friends, our body, or even a significant other. We continually put things before God, yet He still loves us. And so why doesn't He just strike us down, then? Moses interceded for Israel. Well, we, thank goodness, had Jesus intercede for us when He died on the cross bearing each and every one of our sins. May I just say that's good, because otherwise we'd be in some serious trouble. I mess up more times than I can count every day, so I would hate to see what God would do to me for it without Jesus having died for me. It really puts a new perspective on this story, I think, when you look at it that way...
Well, I believe that will be all. God bless!
Remember, if you ever need to talk to anyone, or need prayer for any reason, PLEASE come talk to me. I have a Tumblr account with a message feature that works even if you're not a Tumblr user. Just go to http://emdaisy1.tumblr.com/ask to talk to me. Then go to http://emdaisy1.tumblr.com to see if I have answered (or http://emdaisy1.tumblr.com/archive if it was a while between when you messaged me and checked because that will help you find older stuff a lot faster).
Friday, February 15, 2013
February 15th
February 15th - Exodus 20:1-22 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Exodus%2020:1-22&version=NLT)
Ten Commandments for the Covenant Community
These are:
1) You will not worship/serve/follow any God before God.
2) You will not make or worship any idol of any kind, or the children from even the third and fourth
3) You must not misuse God's name.
4) Continue to observe the Sabbath day - do not do any work on the Sabbath day.
5) Honor your parents.
6) Do not murder
7) Do not commit adultery
8) Do not steal
9) Do not testify falsely (or, basically. don't lie)
10) Do not covet anything that belongs to someone else (covet meaning desire possession of - so basically don't be jealous of/envy other people's things but be happy with what God has blessed you with).
I think we've all basically heard these before. However, I find the fourth one has become quite a debated one nowadays. Many people do work on Sundays. I mean, especially because back then they weren't even supposed to cook anything because that was considered work. So really we're all guilty of working on Sundays. However, some people argue it is okay because the Old Testamant laws were replaced with the new laws Christ put in place when He came. Now, I guess becuase I do do work on Sundays, I'd love to think those people are right, but I really don't know.
Also, I find the tenth one interesting. It's a sin to so much as be jealous of what other people have. Sounds extreme at first, but put it this way: You have two kids. You give your son $40 for his birthday because you didn't know what to buy him, and you give your daughter the equivalent value of that in things she asked for. She complains that she wants what he got instead. She should be glad to have gotten when she did, shouldn't she? Right. You'd be a little annoyed probably. Now imagine how God must feel when we whine about our lives. He sent His son to die for us - we DESERVE Hell but he gave us the chance of Heaven and an eternity with Him. He also blessed us with life, the food and clothes we have, a house, internet, family and friends, and I could keep going but that I think is enough. My point is, we are so blessed but look at other people and go "I wish I had their house" or "I wish I had their job" or even "I wish I had their body/figure". We must be quite whiny in God's ears/eyes. Thank goodness He loves no matter or we'd all be in trouble.
Well, I think that shall be all.
God bless!
Ten Commandments for the Covenant Community
These are:
1) You will not worship/serve/follow any God before God.
2) You will not make or worship any idol of any kind, or the children from even the third and fourth
3) You must not misuse God's name.
4) Continue to observe the Sabbath day - do not do any work on the Sabbath day.
5) Honor your parents.
6) Do not murder
7) Do not commit adultery
8) Do not steal
9) Do not testify falsely (or, basically. don't lie)
10) Do not covet anything that belongs to someone else (covet meaning desire possession of - so basically don't be jealous of/envy other people's things but be happy with what God has blessed you with).
I think we've all basically heard these before. However, I find the fourth one has become quite a debated one nowadays. Many people do work on Sundays. I mean, especially because back then they weren't even supposed to cook anything because that was considered work. So really we're all guilty of working on Sundays. However, some people argue it is okay because the Old Testamant laws were replaced with the new laws Christ put in place when He came. Now, I guess becuase I do do work on Sundays, I'd love to think those people are right, but I really don't know.
Also, I find the tenth one interesting. It's a sin to so much as be jealous of what other people have. Sounds extreme at first, but put it this way: You have two kids. You give your son $40 for his birthday because you didn't know what to buy him, and you give your daughter the equivalent value of that in things she asked for. She complains that she wants what he got instead. She should be glad to have gotten when she did, shouldn't she? Right. You'd be a little annoyed probably. Now imagine how God must feel when we whine about our lives. He sent His son to die for us - we DESERVE Hell but he gave us the chance of Heaven and an eternity with Him. He also blessed us with life, the food and clothes we have, a house, internet, family and friends, and I could keep going but that I think is enough. My point is, we are so blessed but look at other people and go "I wish I had their house" or "I wish I had their job" or even "I wish I had their body/figure". We must be quite whiny in God's ears/eyes. Thank goodness He loves no matter or we'd all be in trouble.
Well, I think that shall be all.
God bless!
Thursday, February 14, 2013
February 14th
February 14th -- Exodus 19 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Exodus%2019&version=NLT)
God reveals Himself at Sinai.
Two months after leaving Egypt, the Israelites reach Sinai and set up base there. Moses then climbs up to the bae to appear before God. God gives him instructions to pass to the people - basically just to obey Him for they have seen how He rescued them from the Egyptians..
Moses tells the people, who say they will do what God has commanded. Then God sends him back with more instructions on how to prepare for God coming down from the mountain on the third day. He says they may not touch the mountain until the ram's horn goes, when they are to go up, but if they go sooner they will die.
Moses tells the people, and on the third day, they all go to the mountain to meet God. It was covered in smoke, because God had descended in fire. God calls out Moses to come up. He then sends Moses back down to get Aaron and also to warn the people not to try and cross the boundaries to see God. So Moses did this.
I think it's cool that God descended in fire. He is so powerful. He is so much so that he needed to set up boundaries and anyone who crossed them would die. It's just so cool to picture it. A mountain that looked like it was on fire somehow, when it was in fact God coming down to the people. I'd love to somehow go back in time and see it, y'know?
Well, I think that's all. God bless!
God reveals Himself at Sinai.
Two months after leaving Egypt, the Israelites reach Sinai and set up base there. Moses then climbs up to the bae to appear before God. God gives him instructions to pass to the people - basically just to obey Him for they have seen how He rescued them from the Egyptians..
Moses tells the people, who say they will do what God has commanded. Then God sends him back with more instructions on how to prepare for God coming down from the mountain on the third day. He says they may not touch the mountain until the ram's horn goes, when they are to go up, but if they go sooner they will die.
Moses tells the people, and on the third day, they all go to the mountain to meet God. It was covered in smoke, because God had descended in fire. God calls out Moses to come up. He then sends Moses back down to get Aaron and also to warn the people not to try and cross the boundaries to see God. So Moses did this.
I think it's cool that God descended in fire. He is so powerful. He is so much so that he needed to set up boundaries and anyone who crossed them would die. It's just so cool to picture it. A mountain that looked like it was on fire somehow, when it was in fact God coming down to the people. I'd love to somehow go back in time and see it, y'know?
Well, I think that's all. God bless!
Wednesday, February 13, 2013
February 13th
February 13th -- Exodus 18 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Exodus%2018&version=NLT)
Jethro's visit and wise advice/council.
So Moses' father-in-law, Jethro, hears about what happened. He takes in Moses' wife and two sons, too. Jethro decides to go visit Moses, with Moses' wife and sons so he may see them again. When he goes, Moses explains to him all that God had done. Jethro was very happen to hear what God had done. They sacrifice burnt offerings together and praised Him.
That next day, Moses is hearing people's stories and acting as a judge for Israel, basically. When Jethro sees this, he asks why Moses is trying to do this, and Moses says the people come for a ruling from God. When disputes come up, they bring it to him and he settles it with God's help. Jethro says he will wear himself out - he needs helpers. He says to, after teaching them in God's ways, let them solve minor disputes so Moses must only handle the bigger ones.
Moses listens to Jethro. He put people in charge as leaders over groups. They always dealt with small cases, and only brought big cases to Moses. Moses then says goodbye to his father-in-law, who goes home to his land.
I find it neat that yet again God provides. Moses WAS handling the cases - it was just tiring and a pain for him. Momentary suffering in all of eternity. Yet, God cares and reached out to help him. He sent along his father-in-law, who just happened to have perfect advice that made things far better and easier. God sent along Jethro exactly where and when he was needed with exactly what he needed to say. It was all perfectl planned.
Our God is just incredible. :D
God bless!
Jethro's visit and wise advice/council.
So Moses' father-in-law, Jethro, hears about what happened. He takes in Moses' wife and two sons, too. Jethro decides to go visit Moses, with Moses' wife and sons so he may see them again. When he goes, Moses explains to him all that God had done. Jethro was very happen to hear what God had done. They sacrifice burnt offerings together and praised Him.
That next day, Moses is hearing people's stories and acting as a judge for Israel, basically. When Jethro sees this, he asks why Moses is trying to do this, and Moses says the people come for a ruling from God. When disputes come up, they bring it to him and he settles it with God's help. Jethro says he will wear himself out - he needs helpers. He says to, after teaching them in God's ways, let them solve minor disputes so Moses must only handle the bigger ones.
Moses listens to Jethro. He put people in charge as leaders over groups. They always dealt with small cases, and only brought big cases to Moses. Moses then says goodbye to his father-in-law, who goes home to his land.
I find it neat that yet again God provides. Moses WAS handling the cases - it was just tiring and a pain for him. Momentary suffering in all of eternity. Yet, God cares and reached out to help him. He sent along his father-in-law, who just happened to have perfect advice that made things far better and easier. God sent along Jethro exactly where and when he was needed with exactly what he needed to say. It was all perfectl planned.
Our God is just incredible. :D
God bless!
Tuesday, February 12, 2013
February 12th
February 12th -- Exodus 16 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Exodus%2016&version=NLT)
Manna and quail from heaven.
So of course, being in the desert, there isn't exactly an obvious food source for the Israelites. So they call out to God for food. God tells Moses he will rain down food, and twice as much on the sixth day (enough for the seventh, because the seventh was a day of rest). God says He will provide bread (manna) in the morning and meat (quail) in the evening.
Now, I find it funny that the first time it appears, Moses says not to keep any until the next morning. Why not? Because that shows they doubt God will send them more then. The stuff that was kept was rotten and full of maggots by morning. Now, this doesn't happen on the morning of the seventh, because they have to keep bread from the sixth since God will not rain any down on the seventh - it is a day of rest.
Now, the food is called manna. Fun fact, "manna" means "what is it?" This was the Israelites first reaction to finding it - nobody knew what it was.
So, God commands them to preserve some of this manna for future generations. They did so. This eventually came to be put into the Ark of the Covenant, which I find interesting. Also, these people had manna fall each morning (and double the sixth to make up for the seventh) for FOURTY years. God really did provide.
Now, God is not so much concerned with our temporary physical comfort, for our lives on earth will be not but a blink of an eye in eternity, however, He still provides. He proves he is faithful and kind to His children - that He loves them. Although He knows they have better things coming in eternity, he still provides for their physical needs then and there without fail. I find that incredible. A being outside of time who does not feel the effects of things like pain or hunger loved us enough to remember without fail to provide for our needs because though He does not feel those things, we do.
It just goes to show God is ALWAYS looking out for us.
God bless!
Manna and quail from heaven.
So of course, being in the desert, there isn't exactly an obvious food source for the Israelites. So they call out to God for food. God tells Moses he will rain down food, and twice as much on the sixth day (enough for the seventh, because the seventh was a day of rest). God says He will provide bread (manna) in the morning and meat (quail) in the evening.
Now, I find it funny that the first time it appears, Moses says not to keep any until the next morning. Why not? Because that shows they doubt God will send them more then. The stuff that was kept was rotten and full of maggots by morning. Now, this doesn't happen on the morning of the seventh, because they have to keep bread from the sixth since God will not rain any down on the seventh - it is a day of rest.
Now, the food is called manna. Fun fact, "manna" means "what is it?" This was the Israelites first reaction to finding it - nobody knew what it was.
So, God commands them to preserve some of this manna for future generations. They did so. This eventually came to be put into the Ark of the Covenant, which I find interesting. Also, these people had manna fall each morning (and double the sixth to make up for the seventh) for FOURTY years. God really did provide.
Now, God is not so much concerned with our temporary physical comfort, for our lives on earth will be not but a blink of an eye in eternity, however, He still provides. He proves he is faithful and kind to His children - that He loves them. Although He knows they have better things coming in eternity, he still provides for their physical needs then and there without fail. I find that incredible. A being outside of time who does not feel the effects of things like pain or hunger loved us enough to remember without fail to provide for our needs because though He does not feel those things, we do.
It just goes to show God is ALWAYS looking out for us.
God bless!
Monday, February 11, 2013
January 11th
January 11th -- Exodus 15:22-27 and 17:1-7 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Exodus%2015:22-27&version=NLT) and (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Exodus%2017:1-7&version=NLT) respectively.
Bitter water at Marah and Water from the rock.
So while the Israelites are travelling away from the Red Sea, they end up in a desert. They went days without water, and when they finally found an oasis. The water, though, was too bitter to drink. This is why it is called "Marah" which means "bitter". The people all go ahead and get mad at Moses, who cries out to God for some help. God tells him to put a piece of wood in the water, and when Moses does, it becomes drinkable. God then gives them a decree to test their faith, saying "If you will listen carefully to the voice of the Lord your God and do what is right in his sight, obeying his commands and keeping all his decrees, then I will not make you suffer any of the diseases I sent on the Egyptians; for I am the Lord who heals you." The Israelites leave Marah only two find the oasis of Elim, with lots of trees and springs, so they camp there.
So later on on their journey the people again start complaining about not having water to drink. Moses asks them why they are testing God, but they only become more angry with him. Moses then asks God what to do. God tells him to go out with some of the elders of Israel to the rock at Mt Sinai. When they get there, Moses is to use his staff and hit the rock. The rock will split open and pour water, so the people will be able to drink. This place was named "Massah", meaning "test", becayse the people tested the Lord.
I find these stories cool and interesting. Or perhaps it is only the lack of faith the Israelites still harbor that astounds me. I don't see how they still doubt God after everything He has done for them. I know it would be a rough time, but after plagues, parting a sea, and cleaning water with a piece of wood, among other miracles, I'd be pretty confident God would pull through like He promised.
SO, that's all. God bless!
Bitter water at Marah and Water from the rock.
So while the Israelites are travelling away from the Red Sea, they end up in a desert. They went days without water, and when they finally found an oasis. The water, though, was too bitter to drink. This is why it is called "Marah" which means "bitter". The people all go ahead and get mad at Moses, who cries out to God for some help. God tells him to put a piece of wood in the water, and when Moses does, it becomes drinkable. God then gives them a decree to test their faith, saying "If you will listen carefully to the voice of the Lord your God and do what is right in his sight, obeying his commands and keeping all his decrees, then I will not make you suffer any of the diseases I sent on the Egyptians; for I am the Lord who heals you." The Israelites leave Marah only two find the oasis of Elim, with lots of trees and springs, so they camp there.
So later on on their journey the people again start complaining about not having water to drink. Moses asks them why they are testing God, but they only become more angry with him. Moses then asks God what to do. God tells him to go out with some of the elders of Israel to the rock at Mt Sinai. When they get there, Moses is to use his staff and hit the rock. The rock will split open and pour water, so the people will be able to drink. This place was named "Massah", meaning "test", becayse the people tested the Lord.
I find these stories cool and interesting. Or perhaps it is only the lack of faith the Israelites still harbor that astounds me. I don't see how they still doubt God after everything He has done for them. I know it would be a rough time, but after plagues, parting a sea, and cleaning water with a piece of wood, among other miracles, I'd be pretty confident God would pull through like He promised.
SO, that's all. God bless!
Sunday, February 10, 2013
January 10th
January 10th -- Exodus 13:17-14:31 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Exodus%2013:17-14:31&version=NLT)
Israel's leaving, but Pharaoh changes his mind... So God lets Moses part the Red Sea.
So God doesn't let the Israelites take the direct route - He guides them on one He has devised to keep them from battling anyone. Also, random fun fact, but they had to take Joseph's bones with them. He had requested it before he died - he made them promise to. God guided the Israelites with a pillar of fire by night and a pillar of cloud by day.
Then God tells Moses to camp somewhere, basically SO Pharaoh will chase them down. This is so God can once again show His incredible glory. So Moses did as God said, and Pharaoh came along with 600 of Egypt's best chariots, along with the others, and chased them down.
When the Israelites start to despair, God tells Moses to raise his staff and part the Red Sea. God allows the Israelites to walk through the sea.... and then the Egyptians give chase. When they do, though, God tells Moses to raise his staff again and the waters will go back to where they were. They do and the Egyptians don't make it. When the Isrealites saw this incredible miracle they put their faith into God.
Again, I find it a bit sad so many had to die... especially when we know they are not going to Heaven...
Also, one would think the Israelites would have been amazed by the pillar of fire and cloud, or even when God parted the sea, not just when He let it rush back in. Then again, they do spend the next 40 years wandering because they start worhsipping idols... so....
That will be all.
God bless!
Israel's leaving, but Pharaoh changes his mind... So God lets Moses part the Red Sea.
So God doesn't let the Israelites take the direct route - He guides them on one He has devised to keep them from battling anyone. Also, random fun fact, but they had to take Joseph's bones with them. He had requested it before he died - he made them promise to. God guided the Israelites with a pillar of fire by night and a pillar of cloud by day.
Then God tells Moses to camp somewhere, basically SO Pharaoh will chase them down. This is so God can once again show His incredible glory. So Moses did as God said, and Pharaoh came along with 600 of Egypt's best chariots, along with the others, and chased them down.
When the Israelites start to despair, God tells Moses to raise his staff and part the Red Sea. God allows the Israelites to walk through the sea.... and then the Egyptians give chase. When they do, though, God tells Moses to raise his staff again and the waters will go back to where they were. They do and the Egyptians don't make it. When the Isrealites saw this incredible miracle they put their faith into God.
Again, I find it a bit sad so many had to die... especially when we know they are not going to Heaven...
Also, one would think the Israelites would have been amazed by the pillar of fire and cloud, or even when God parted the sea, not just when He let it rush back in. Then again, they do spend the next 40 years wandering because they start worhsipping idols... so....
That will be all.
God bless!
January 9th
January 9th -- Exodus 11:1-10 and 12:29-36 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Exodus%2011:1-10&version=NLT) and (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Exodus%2012:29-36&version=NLT) respectively
The last plague - Death of the firstborn
and
Israel's Exodus from Egypt
So after the many times of Pharaoh refusing to let the people go, God sends one more plague, knowing Pharaoh will let them leave after this. So God tells Moses and Aaron firstly to get all the Israelites to ask for silver and gold from their Egyptian neighbours. Then they tell Pharoah that God will pass through Egypt that night and kill every firstborn, including those of the cattle. However, Israel will remain untouched. There will also be a horrible wailing. Pharaoh will then beg the Israelites to leave.
Between then and where we cut back in there's the passover, which we all know about.
So at midnight, as God had said, all the firstborns died, and there was horrible wailing because somebody had died in every house. Pharaoh tells Moses and Aaron to, with the Isrealites, get out. He also asks for a blessing as they go. So the Israelites pack up. They also, as the Lord said they would, strip the Egyptians of their wealth before they leave.
I find this part sad.... to think that so many people died..... even Egyptians who maybe did love God (like the women who spared the Hebrew babies when Pharaoh said to kill them if they were boys) lost people. They could not control Pharoah's choice, so it's saddening that they lost loved ones because of Pharaoh and his stubborness....
That's all. Yes, this was a day late. Yesterday was a long and interesting day and I honestly did not get the chance to do this. I'll have today's up soon. :)
God bless!
The last plague - Death of the firstborn
and
Israel's Exodus from Egypt
So after the many times of Pharaoh refusing to let the people go, God sends one more plague, knowing Pharaoh will let them leave after this. So God tells Moses and Aaron firstly to get all the Israelites to ask for silver and gold from their Egyptian neighbours. Then they tell Pharoah that God will pass through Egypt that night and kill every firstborn, including those of the cattle. However, Israel will remain untouched. There will also be a horrible wailing. Pharaoh will then beg the Israelites to leave.
Between then and where we cut back in there's the passover, which we all know about.
So at midnight, as God had said, all the firstborns died, and there was horrible wailing because somebody had died in every house. Pharaoh tells Moses and Aaron to, with the Isrealites, get out. He also asks for a blessing as they go. So the Israelites pack up. They also, as the Lord said they would, strip the Egyptians of their wealth before they leave.
I find this part sad.... to think that so many people died..... even Egyptians who maybe did love God (like the women who spared the Hebrew babies when Pharaoh said to kill them if they were boys) lost people. They could not control Pharoah's choice, so it's saddening that they lost loved ones because of Pharaoh and his stubborness....
That's all. Yes, this was a day late. Yesterday was a long and interesting day and I honestly did not get the chance to do this. I'll have today's up soon. :)
God bless!
Friday, February 8, 2013
February 8th
February 8th -- Exodus 9:8-10:29 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Exodus%209:8-10:29&version=NLT)
The next four plagues.
Since Pharaoh still has not let the Israelites go, God just keeps on sending the plagues to Egypt. So after the plague on the livestock came the plague of "festering boils". Now, there are not many things that gross me out... but things like boils are one of the few tha do. So basically all I'll say on this one is it was nasty - everyone was covered in them and it would have been horribly digsusting and painful. Somehow, Pharaoh still doesn't listen......
So, God sends Moses and Aaron to tell Pharoah that if he doesn't let the Israelites go to worship, then God will send more plagues. God could have already wiped out Phaorah and Egypt, but He hasn't so that they can be a testimony to God's power. God will send a hailstorm because Pharoah is still trying to control the land. God tells them to tell Pharaoh to order his men and animals inside so they will not be killed - for anyone still outside will die.Some men listen, but most are too prideful. The hail falls and Egypt was left ruined. Only Goshen was untouched. Pharoah calls Moses and asks for him to pray for it to stop and he will let them go and worship. Moses does so, but Pharaoh is still stubborn and still will not let them go.
This causes yet another plague. Moses and Aaron again go and warn Pharaoh that if he does not let them go, God will send a plague. He is using them to showhis power and have the stories of it spread throughout the lands. Their grandchildren will speak of it, He says (which well, they did as we speak of it thousands of years later...) God says he is sending locusts that will devour all the crops that are growing. This time, Pharaoh's men plead with him to let them go. Pharaoh says they may go, but who is going? When Moses and Aaron say all of them, Pharaoh says it's a plan, so only the men may go and then throws them out of the palace. The next day, locusts swarmed Egypt and devestated it - they ate all the living plants/food sources. So Pharoh repeats his usual 'please... tell God to stop... oh thank you.... by the way I'm still not letting you go" process. This leads to yet another plague.
So, up after Locusts was darkness. God sent a darkness that was apparently so thick it could be felt. It covered all of Egypt for 3 days, except where the Israelites lived. Pharaoh, after it lifts, calls Moses and Aaron and says the people may worship, but must leave their flocks. They explain they need their flocks to sacrifice. Then Pharaoh objects, tells them to leave, and says if he sees their faces again they will die. So Moses and Aaron leave.
I don't feel like typing more.. but honestly you'd think Pharaoh would give in by now... it's almost unfortunate for him that God picked him to use to show His power, because he suffered so much for it...
Anyways, that will be all. God bless!
The next four plagues.
Since Pharaoh still has not let the Israelites go, God just keeps on sending the plagues to Egypt. So after the plague on the livestock came the plague of "festering boils". Now, there are not many things that gross me out... but things like boils are one of the few tha do. So basically all I'll say on this one is it was nasty - everyone was covered in them and it would have been horribly digsusting and painful. Somehow, Pharaoh still doesn't listen......
So, God sends Moses and Aaron to tell Pharoah that if he doesn't let the Israelites go to worship, then God will send more plagues. God could have already wiped out Phaorah and Egypt, but He hasn't so that they can be a testimony to God's power. God will send a hailstorm because Pharoah is still trying to control the land. God tells them to tell Pharaoh to order his men and animals inside so they will not be killed - for anyone still outside will die.Some men listen, but most are too prideful. The hail falls and Egypt was left ruined. Only Goshen was untouched. Pharoah calls Moses and asks for him to pray for it to stop and he will let them go and worship. Moses does so, but Pharaoh is still stubborn and still will not let them go.
This causes yet another plague. Moses and Aaron again go and warn Pharaoh that if he does not let them go, God will send a plague. He is using them to showhis power and have the stories of it spread throughout the lands. Their grandchildren will speak of it, He says (which well, they did as we speak of it thousands of years later...) God says he is sending locusts that will devour all the crops that are growing. This time, Pharaoh's men plead with him to let them go. Pharaoh says they may go, but who is going? When Moses and Aaron say all of them, Pharaoh says it's a plan, so only the men may go and then throws them out of the palace. The next day, locusts swarmed Egypt and devestated it - they ate all the living plants/food sources. So Pharoh repeats his usual 'please... tell God to stop... oh thank you.... by the way I'm still not letting you go" process. This leads to yet another plague.
So, up after Locusts was darkness. God sent a darkness that was apparently so thick it could be felt. It covered all of Egypt for 3 days, except where the Israelites lived. Pharaoh, after it lifts, calls Moses and Aaron and says the people may worship, but must leave their flocks. They explain they need their flocks to sacrifice. Then Pharaoh objects, tells them to leave, and says if he sees their faces again they will die. So Moses and Aaron leave.
I don't feel like typing more.. but honestly you'd think Pharaoh would give in by now... it's almost unfortunate for him that God picked him to use to show His power, because he suffered so much for it...
Anyways, that will be all. God bless!
Thursday, February 7, 2013
February 7th
February 7th -- Exodus 7:15-9:7 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Exodus%207:15-9:7&version=NLT)
The first five plagues.
So first, there is the plague of blood. God tells Moses and Aaron to go and strike the Nile's water with the staff and it will turn into blood. This will cause the fish to die and the whole thing will stink. The Egyptians also will not be able to get water from it. They do this, and the water turns into blood.
However, Pharoah's men manage to accomplish this, too, so Pharaoh does not listen.
Then God sends the plague of frogs. God tells Moses and Aaron to tell Pharoah that if he refuses to let the Israelites go, frogs will swarm all of Egypt. He told Moses to raise the staff and bring up the frogs all over the land. Moses did so.
Pharaoh paniced, and told Moses to ask God to take the frogs away if he let them go and sacrifice. They agree to this, and the next day, when he lets them go to sacrifice, all the frogs die and their is relief. Because of this, Pharaoh again will not let them go.
Next came a plague of gnats. God tells Moses to tell Aaron to strike the ground with the staff. When he does, the dust will become swarms of gnats all through Egypt. Pharaoh's magicians could not repeat this trick. The gnats covered people and animals everywhere. Despite his men saying this must be God, Pharaoh would not listen.
Next up was the plague of flies. God sends Moses to warn Pharaoh that if he does not let God's people go, then God will send swarms of flies on him and his men - their homes will be filled and the lands will be covered. However, this time God will not send it upon his people, in Goshem, too. He will keep them safe and there won't be flies there.
God did as He had said. Pharaoh's answer is to say they can sacrifice in this land, but Moses explains they cannot, because the Egyptians sacrifice in this land. Pharaoh says they can go out to sacrifice if they only go a short ways and if he prays for the flies to be gone. Moses does this. After the flies leave, though, Pharaoh still refuses to let the Israelites go.
Then there is the plague on the livestock. God sends Moses to tell Pharaoh that if he does not let the people go, then the Lord will send a deadly plague to all the Egyptian animals, but none of the Isrealite animals. God does this, as He says He would. All of the Egyptian's animals were dead, but not a single Israelite animal had died. Yet, Pharoah would still not let them go.
So, I kind of find the plagues very interesting. I'd love to know why God picked the things He did. Why flies and gnats? Why not mosquitoes and spiders? I'd just love to understand the thought process behind it. I'd also love to understand HOW PHAROAH is THAT stubborn. Like, really... how, after all those things, could one still deny God?
Anyways, that shall be all.
God bless!
The first five plagues.
So first, there is the plague of blood. God tells Moses and Aaron to go and strike the Nile's water with the staff and it will turn into blood. This will cause the fish to die and the whole thing will stink. The Egyptians also will not be able to get water from it. They do this, and the water turns into blood.
However, Pharoah's men manage to accomplish this, too, so Pharaoh does not listen.
Then God sends the plague of frogs. God tells Moses and Aaron to tell Pharoah that if he refuses to let the Israelites go, frogs will swarm all of Egypt. He told Moses to raise the staff and bring up the frogs all over the land. Moses did so.
Pharaoh paniced, and told Moses to ask God to take the frogs away if he let them go and sacrifice. They agree to this, and the next day, when he lets them go to sacrifice, all the frogs die and their is relief. Because of this, Pharaoh again will not let them go.
Next came a plague of gnats. God tells Moses to tell Aaron to strike the ground with the staff. When he does, the dust will become swarms of gnats all through Egypt. Pharaoh's magicians could not repeat this trick. The gnats covered people and animals everywhere. Despite his men saying this must be God, Pharaoh would not listen.
Next up was the plague of flies. God sends Moses to warn Pharaoh that if he does not let God's people go, then God will send swarms of flies on him and his men - their homes will be filled and the lands will be covered. However, this time God will not send it upon his people, in Goshem, too. He will keep them safe and there won't be flies there.
God did as He had said. Pharaoh's answer is to say they can sacrifice in this land, but Moses explains they cannot, because the Egyptians sacrifice in this land. Pharaoh says they can go out to sacrifice if they only go a short ways and if he prays for the flies to be gone. Moses does this. After the flies leave, though, Pharaoh still refuses to let the Israelites go.
Then there is the plague on the livestock. God sends Moses to tell Pharaoh that if he does not let the people go, then the Lord will send a deadly plague to all the Egyptian animals, but none of the Isrealite animals. God does this, as He says He would. All of the Egyptian's animals were dead, but not a single Israelite animal had died. Yet, Pharoah would still not let them go.
So, I kind of find the plagues very interesting. I'd love to know why God picked the things He did. Why flies and gnats? Why not mosquitoes and spiders? I'd just love to understand the thought process behind it. I'd also love to understand HOW PHAROAH is THAT stubborn. Like, really... how, after all those things, could one still deny God?
Anyways, that shall be all.
God bless!
Wednesday, February 6, 2013
February 6th
February 6th -- Exodus 7:1-14 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Exodus%207:1-14&version=NLT)
Aaron's staff becomes a serpent
So God tells Moses to get Aaron to repeat everything he says. However, Pharaoh will still not listen, so God will then punish him for that. However, for the time, He wanted them to go consult Pharaoh still. He told them Pharaoh would ask to see a miracle. When he did, Aaron was to throw down his staff and it would become a serpent.
When Moses and Aaron came before Pharaoh, they did as God commanded them to. When Aaron threw down his staff, it did indeed become a serpent. However, Pharaoh called in some of his magicians and such, and they repeated the trick. So, Pharaoh didn't listen, even though Aaron's staff ate those of Pharaoh's men.
God said that Pharaoh was still not going to let them go.
Now, I think perhaps it just puzzles me as to how Pharaoh's men accomplished the same trick. They did not have God on their side, so did they perhaps have the devil, or demons at the least, helping them in order to copy what Aaron did? That's really one of the only logical answers I can see. I know that witchcraft is in fact real, though horribly evil. Because it is seen as so evil, I figure it must involve demons/the devil. Just food for thought, and something I shall have to look into more when I have time.
That's all for tonight.
God bless!
Aaron's staff becomes a serpent
So God tells Moses to get Aaron to repeat everything he says. However, Pharaoh will still not listen, so God will then punish him for that. However, for the time, He wanted them to go consult Pharaoh still. He told them Pharaoh would ask to see a miracle. When he did, Aaron was to throw down his staff and it would become a serpent.
When Moses and Aaron came before Pharaoh, they did as God commanded them to. When Aaron threw down his staff, it did indeed become a serpent. However, Pharaoh called in some of his magicians and such, and they repeated the trick. So, Pharaoh didn't listen, even though Aaron's staff ate those of Pharaoh's men.
God said that Pharaoh was still not going to let them go.
Now, I think perhaps it just puzzles me as to how Pharaoh's men accomplished the same trick. They did not have God on their side, so did they perhaps have the devil, or demons at the least, helping them in order to copy what Aaron did? That's really one of the only logical answers I can see. I know that witchcraft is in fact real, though horribly evil. Because it is seen as so evil, I figure it must involve demons/the devil. Just food for thought, and something I shall have to look into more when I have time.
That's all for tonight.
God bless!
Tuesday, February 5, 2013
February 5th
February 5th -- Exodus 6:1-13 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Exodus%206:1-13&version=NLT)
Promises of Deliverance
So God tells Moses that Pharoah WILL let them go, once he feels God's wrath, basically. Or, not only will he LET them go, but he will FORCE them out.
God sends Moses back again to tell the Israelites that God has said He will bring them out of slavery. When Moses told them, nobody listened because they were discouraged.
God told Moses to go to Pharoah, but Moses protests, saying nobody will listen to him. However, God insists he go, as He had commanded them to lead the people of Israel out of Egypt.
Now, I don't have much to say for this, except that you really gotta' feel kind of bad for poor Moses. He's already tried and nobody listened. God says to try again, and he does, but they kind of just rub the straw-and-brick incident in his face and don't listen. If his own people won't listen, why would Pharaoh? So, well, Moses probably felt he'd been given an impossible task, so you have to feel a little bad for him, as he was probably getting rather frustrated and feeling quite hopeless. So, the next time we feel God is telling us to do something "impossible", we should remember Moses. Though we may get discouraged and protest like he did, look where he got in the end!
That's all for tonight!
God bless!
Promises of Deliverance
So God tells Moses that Pharoah WILL let them go, once he feels God's wrath, basically. Or, not only will he LET them go, but he will FORCE them out.
God sends Moses back again to tell the Israelites that God has said He will bring them out of slavery. When Moses told them, nobody listened because they were discouraged.
God told Moses to go to Pharoah, but Moses protests, saying nobody will listen to him. However, God insists he go, as He had commanded them to lead the people of Israel out of Egypt.
Now, I don't have much to say for this, except that you really gotta' feel kind of bad for poor Moses. He's already tried and nobody listened. God says to try again, and he does, but they kind of just rub the straw-and-brick incident in his face and don't listen. If his own people won't listen, why would Pharaoh? So, well, Moses probably felt he'd been given an impossible task, so you have to feel a little bad for him, as he was probably getting rather frustrated and feeling quite hopeless. So, the next time we feel God is telling us to do something "impossible", we should remember Moses. Though we may get discouraged and protest like he did, look where he got in the end!
That's all for tonight!
God bless!
Monday, February 4, 2013
February 4th
February 4th -- Exodus 5 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Exodus%205&version=NLT)
Moses and Aaron speak to Pharoah AND Making bricks without straw
So Moses and Aaron, after gaining the support of Israel's leaders, go to Pharaoh and tell him God has demanded he let the people of Israel, His people, go. Pharoah claims, though, that He does not know and so he will not. Aaron and Moses continue to plead and ask for three days to go out and sacrifice and then return, so God will not kill them. However, Pharaoh basically tells them they're keeping people from work, so scram.
Pharaoh then goes and tells the Egyptian slave drivers to stop supplying straw and let the Israelites who make bricks get it themselves. He thinks they are being lazy by asking to go sacrifice, so he is putting a greater workload on them. After the Israelites could not make enough, some approached Pharaoh, who told them they were just being lazy. I, personally, would have loved to see Pharaoh attempting to do what he was demanding the Israelites, or even have one the slave drivers try. I don't know if it was out of cruelty or ignorance that he thought they were being lazy.
Now, poor Moses gets the brunt of it - everyone gets mad at him because they think he brought it on them all by asking to go sacrifice. I don't really find that fair, as just before they agreed he should go to Pharaoh because it was clear God had sent it to them. This is one of those times where "don't shoot the messenger" comes into play.
Anyways, Moses, of course, then cries out to God and asks why He has let Pharaoh become harsher on His people. I can understand Moses confusion. After all his protests, God still insists he must go to rescue the Israelites. When he finally goes, though, things just get worse. That seems backwards. Having read the rest of the story, we know how it all works out, but I can say that in that situation Moses was in, I also would have been very confused.
I believe that shall be all for today!
God bless!
Moses and Aaron speak to Pharoah AND Making bricks without straw
So Moses and Aaron, after gaining the support of Israel's leaders, go to Pharaoh and tell him God has demanded he let the people of Israel, His people, go. Pharoah claims, though, that He does not know and so he will not. Aaron and Moses continue to plead and ask for three days to go out and sacrifice and then return, so God will not kill them. However, Pharaoh basically tells them they're keeping people from work, so scram.
Pharaoh then goes and tells the Egyptian slave drivers to stop supplying straw and let the Israelites who make bricks get it themselves. He thinks they are being lazy by asking to go sacrifice, so he is putting a greater workload on them. After the Israelites could not make enough, some approached Pharaoh, who told them they were just being lazy. I, personally, would have loved to see Pharaoh attempting to do what he was demanding the Israelites, or even have one the slave drivers try. I don't know if it was out of cruelty or ignorance that he thought they were being lazy.
Now, poor Moses gets the brunt of it - everyone gets mad at him because they think he brought it on them all by asking to go sacrifice. I don't really find that fair, as just before they agreed he should go to Pharaoh because it was clear God had sent it to them. This is one of those times where "don't shoot the messenger" comes into play.
Anyways, Moses, of course, then cries out to God and asks why He has let Pharaoh become harsher on His people. I can understand Moses confusion. After all his protests, God still insists he must go to rescue the Israelites. When he finally goes, though, things just get worse. That seems backwards. Having read the rest of the story, we know how it all works out, but I can say that in that situation Moses was in, I also would have been very confused.
I believe that shall be all for today!
God bless!
Sunday, February 3, 2013
February 3rd
February 3rd -- Exodus 4:1-17 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Exodus%204:1-17&version=NLT)
Sign's of the Lord's power.
So, continuing from before, Moses kept arguing with God about being sent to lead Israel's people out of slavery. He asks what he will do if thye don't believe him, and God tells him to throw his staff on the ground. When Moses does, it becomes a snake! THAT is honestly SO cool! Like, the staff just becomes a SNAKE! I wouldn't need any more convincing after that, personally. XD Actually, I may not have needed more after the bush. And then, to make it better, if you grab the tail it goes right back to a normal staff again!
So, God says to do that and they will believe him. Then God tells him to put his hand in his coat, and when he pulls it out, it's diseased. Yet when he repeats it, it is healthy again. Again - SO cool! God says that just in case that doesn't convince them, take water from the Nile, and pour it on the ground, and it'll become blood. Once more - SO cool!
Yet, Moses still pleads. I do honestly kind of get where he's coming from, because he's worried they'll laugh because he stutters, and nobody likes risking being made a fool of. God tells him to go anyways, because He made Moses' mouth and will be pleased with how he speaks with it. Yet Moses still protests, and God finally says He will send along Aaron, and Moses will tell Aaron what to say and Aaron will speak it.
Now, I have always liked this passage. I think it's just because those signs are pretty awesome. I mean, I'd love to see those signs performed nowadays, and have scientists explain them scientifically. That'd be entertaining to watch them as their theories and "fact" shattered before their very eyes.
Anyhoo, that's all for tonight, folks!
God bless!
Sign's of the Lord's power.
So, continuing from before, Moses kept arguing with God about being sent to lead Israel's people out of slavery. He asks what he will do if thye don't believe him, and God tells him to throw his staff on the ground. When Moses does, it becomes a snake! THAT is honestly SO cool! Like, the staff just becomes a SNAKE! I wouldn't need any more convincing after that, personally. XD Actually, I may not have needed more after the bush. And then, to make it better, if you grab the tail it goes right back to a normal staff again!
So, God says to do that and they will believe him. Then God tells him to put his hand in his coat, and when he pulls it out, it's diseased. Yet when he repeats it, it is healthy again. Again - SO cool! God says that just in case that doesn't convince them, take water from the Nile, and pour it on the ground, and it'll become blood. Once more - SO cool!
Yet, Moses still pleads. I do honestly kind of get where he's coming from, because he's worried they'll laugh because he stutters, and nobody likes risking being made a fool of. God tells him to go anyways, because He made Moses' mouth and will be pleased with how he speaks with it. Yet Moses still protests, and God finally says He will send along Aaron, and Moses will tell Aaron what to say and Aaron will speak it.
Now, I have always liked this passage. I think it's just because those signs are pretty awesome. I mean, I'd love to see those signs performed nowadays, and have scientists explain them scientifically. That'd be entertaining to watch them as their theories and "fact" shattered before their very eyes.
Anyhoo, that's all for tonight, folks!
God bless!
Saturday, February 2, 2013
February 2nd
February 2nd -- Exodus 3 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Exodus%203&version=NLT)
Moses and the burning bush.
So Moses is tending his flocks one day and winds up at Mount Sinai. An angel appears to him and he sees a bush that is on fire but not burning up, so naturally he goes to see it. As he goes, though. God speaks to him and tells him to take off his sandals because he is on holy ground. God tells Moses who He is (that's He's God) so Moses looks away. God tells Moses that he has seen how Israel has been suffering, and now He is sending Moses to rescue them through Him. Moses asks what to tell them if they ask His name and He answers with "I Am Who I Am" (in some translations it is "I Will Be What I Will Be") and tells him to say "I Am has sent me to you" as well as "Yahweh, the God of your ancestors - the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob - has sent me to you." He tells Moses to pass along the message to the Israelites, who will agree and go with him to the Egyptians. He says that he knows Pharaoh will not just agree, so God will strike the Egyptians until he does. When Pharaoh lets them go, they Egyptians will give much to them as they leave.
Now, I think we frequently here the "I Am Who I Am" quote. The thing is, the meaning has still not be grasped, and never fully can be. It is MEANT to be mysterious. It causes you to sit and think on it, yet you really never can reach an end to the meanings no matter how hard you try. It is just a brief expression of how vast and infinite our God is - He is SO far beyond our understanding. It really is quite incredible.
I believe that is all!
God bless!
Remember if you ever need prayer, you can contact me on my Tumblr blog, even without an account, and message me anonymously at http://emdaisy1.tumblr.com then check later at http://emdaisy1.tumblr.com or http://emdaisy1.tumblr.com/archive to see if I have been able to answer yet.
Moses and the burning bush.
So Moses is tending his flocks one day and winds up at Mount Sinai. An angel appears to him and he sees a bush that is on fire but not burning up, so naturally he goes to see it. As he goes, though. God speaks to him and tells him to take off his sandals because he is on holy ground. God tells Moses who He is (that's He's God) so Moses looks away. God tells Moses that he has seen how Israel has been suffering, and now He is sending Moses to rescue them through Him. Moses asks what to tell them if they ask His name and He answers with "I Am Who I Am" (in some translations it is "I Will Be What I Will Be") and tells him to say "I Am has sent me to you" as well as "Yahweh, the God of your ancestors - the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob - has sent me to you." He tells Moses to pass along the message to the Israelites, who will agree and go with him to the Egyptians. He says that he knows Pharaoh will not just agree, so God will strike the Egyptians until he does. When Pharaoh lets them go, they Egyptians will give much to them as they leave.
Now, I think we frequently here the "I Am Who I Am" quote. The thing is, the meaning has still not be grasped, and never fully can be. It is MEANT to be mysterious. It causes you to sit and think on it, yet you really never can reach an end to the meanings no matter how hard you try. It is just a brief expression of how vast and infinite our God is - He is SO far beyond our understanding. It really is quite incredible.
I believe that is all!
God bless!
Remember if you ever need prayer, you can contact me on my Tumblr blog, even without an account, and message me anonymously at http://emdaisy1.tumblr.com then check later at http://emdaisy1.tumblr.com or http://emdaisy1.tumblr.com/archive to see if I have been able to answer yet.
Friday, February 1, 2013
February 1st
February 1st -- Exodus 2:11-25 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Exodus%202:11-25&version=NLT)
Moses Escapes to Midian
So, Moses, after he grows up, goes to visit his people. He sees how hard they are worked and, as a result, becomes so angry that he killed an Egpytian for beating a Hebrew. Moses thought nobody had noticed, but the next day he realized people had, including Pharaoh, who tried to kill him for it. Moses, however, ran off to Midian.
He was sitting by a well and the priest's daughters came down to draw water. However, sheperds came and chased them off, so Moses resuced them and drew the water they needed for their flocks.
When thr girls get home, they explained what happened upon their father's inquiring. So, the father had Moses invited to dinner. Moses accepted and ended up living there for a while. Moses married one of thr daughters, Zipporah, and had Gershom by her (Gershom means "I have been a foreigner in a forgein land" for Moses had been and Gershom was, too, in a way).
So years keep going by, and despite the king/Pharoah dying, things don't improve for the Hebrews. They cried to God who heard them. God remembered the covenants he had made with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. God knew that then was the time to do something about their suffering.
Now, the one thing that ALWAYS stands out to me as I read this is about Moses having killed someone. I mean, he goes out and murders them, and yet God still uses him for bug plans. It just goes to show how much God really does forgive. Also, as much as the younger kids movie version that I saw growing up portrayed the man's death as an accident, it wasn't - Moses intentionally killed the man out of extreme anger. Neither anger nor murder is Godly, and yet God still uses him. So, the next time you feel you're too messed up, you're too much of a sinner, you've made too many mistakes, etc etc etc, remember that Moses was a murderer, but God used him for huge plans!
That's all!
God bless!
Moses Escapes to Midian
So, Moses, after he grows up, goes to visit his people. He sees how hard they are worked and, as a result, becomes so angry that he killed an Egpytian for beating a Hebrew. Moses thought nobody had noticed, but the next day he realized people had, including Pharaoh, who tried to kill him for it. Moses, however, ran off to Midian.
He was sitting by a well and the priest's daughters came down to draw water. However, sheperds came and chased them off, so Moses resuced them and drew the water they needed for their flocks.
When thr girls get home, they explained what happened upon their father's inquiring. So, the father had Moses invited to dinner. Moses accepted and ended up living there for a while. Moses married one of thr daughters, Zipporah, and had Gershom by her (Gershom means "I have been a foreigner in a forgein land" for Moses had been and Gershom was, too, in a way).
So years keep going by, and despite the king/Pharoah dying, things don't improve for the Hebrews. They cried to God who heard them. God remembered the covenants he had made with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. God knew that then was the time to do something about their suffering.
Now, the one thing that ALWAYS stands out to me as I read this is about Moses having killed someone. I mean, he goes out and murders them, and yet God still uses him for bug plans. It just goes to show how much God really does forgive. Also, as much as the younger kids movie version that I saw growing up portrayed the man's death as an accident, it wasn't - Moses intentionally killed the man out of extreme anger. Neither anger nor murder is Godly, and yet God still uses him. So, the next time you feel you're too messed up, you're too much of a sinner, you've made too many mistakes, etc etc etc, remember that Moses was a murderer, but God used him for huge plans!
That's all!
God bless!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)