Life changes as one ages, and what goes around really does come back around. I guess when your body starts to do weird stuff, then you realize this is temporary. I am not writing this to be depressing, morbid, or anything like that, but maybe I am just musing or find myself thinking out loud.
As men age, the hair begins to turn grey, it begins to fall out, our virility begins to fade, our muscles are not as "rock hard" as they used to be, and weight is easier to put on and harder to take off. Hair is falling off of your head, but now begins to show up profusely in your ears and out of your nose. You need a weed eater to get rid of the hair coming out of the wrong places, while trying to figure out how to keep it from falling out on top. Average and ordinary doesn't cut it anymore. You don't do things to impress anyone, it just feels good to know you still can.
My life began to take a drastic turn when I turned 43, I had to get glasses. It wasn't that I couldn't see, I could still see. The printed page had just gotten smaller and a little blurry. The I got the bureau disease, that is when your chest begins to fall into your drawers. At 50, it was like someone turned on the pain switch, and the "fun" began. Whoever said "life begins at 50" must have been in a different body, or I guess maybe I just don't get it. You get older and you begin to see things clearer, but by then you can't keep up nor do you feel like it. You begin to downsize, and you don't need all the "junk" to keep up with the Jones'.
Little things start to become much bigger: like friendship, family, home, church, and security. I guess some folks get prepared better than others, but there comes a point in one's life where all the world can be put into one bag. A change of clothes, a toothbrush, a comb and brush, shoes, bedroom slippers, and a Bible to read (Large Print PLEASE!)
More is less, less is more. The things of this world no longer hold the thrill they once held. Relationships do not come as easily as once they did, but you value those "old things" that just seem to fit you. No longer do you have to have it, you just rest in the enjoyment of the moment. Finally at peace with yourself and with God. No longer striving to please something or someone, but finally at rest. The little things that we often overlook like "Thank You," "I appreciate you," (Dare I say it!) "I Love You!" and just the touch of a hand, the smile of a friend, the embrace of a child, or the wink of a spouse.
When Sunset looms over the horizon, when life seems to be coming to the end, the greater grace appears to come like an old friend "Even so, Come!"
Monday, April 19, 2010
Friday, April 2, 2010
The Paschal Lamb
"A Remembrance of Christ"
Each year during the spring, The Jews celebrate an event we call "Passover." Because it has become common, many if the truths have been passed over or even ignored. Why did John the Baptist declare with his first words of Jesus "Behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world!"(?) Where did he get that idea?
In the spring of the year, The Jews would begin "cleaning house" in preparation for the Passover. Hence, we get the term "Spring cleaning." All levin or yeast had to be removed from the house, and that included all the dust and dirt. A little levin would be left for Papa to find when he did the grand inspection, and this was a tradition. The Father would select a young lamb and "bring him home" to live with the family during this week of "Celebration." This was no small thing, for it was commanded by Almighty God, to do yearly in remembrance of the Exodus from Egypt. Once the house was clean and the time was right, the lamb and the family would be locked in for the week. No work would be done during this week and this was family time. Squabbles would arise, there would be much discussion, and the children would play many games. This little lamb became a "pet" and the children and family would grow attached to it, much like we would a dog or cat, or any other pet one can imagine. Their minds would be "on God" and the Father would oversee the traditions of the family and would follow strict adherence to the Word of God.
On Friday around 6:00 pm, the lamb would be "slaughtered" for the sins of the family. Can't you hear the children begging, "Oh no Daddy, PLEASE DON'T KILL IT!" It had to be done, and the Father or one of the men would cut the lamb's throat and let the blood drain. There are many other symbols of Christ in the Passover. All of these can be read in a little book called "Christ in the Passover" by Moishe Rosen (Moishe is Moses in English).
The bread that was used plays a significant role as well. It was unlevined and it was "striped and pierced" and kept in a pouch. This pouch had three compartments: Upper, Middle, and Lower. The bread for the Passover would be pulled out of the Middle first and broken in half. One half of it would wrapped in a linen cloth and "buried" or hidden from the children so that it could be Resurrected at a latter time in the Passover. The hidden bread was known as the "Aphikomen."
There is much more to be said about this so I would recommend the reading of the book previously mentioned. Moving on to Jesus, the Jews were waiting for a Messiah, or Ha'Messhiach. When the lamb was slain, this was called the "atoning sacrifice" or "Atonement." This was the time the person realized they were "One" with God, or At-one-ment.
When Jesus walked on this Earth, He was the Pascal Lamb, the atoning sacrifice. He came to Earth to dwell with His family Israel - the children of God. We slaughtered Him! It was His Destiny and He did it because He loved us so much. Jesus was the bread of life and when we partake of communion bread we eat His flesh. When we drink the wine, we drink His blood. I do not believe this is literal, but it is a powerful symbol and remembrance of what HE did for us (me).
When Jesus died on the cross, He fulfilled the obligation of man's sin, the requirement of the blood. Sin brings death, and Jesus died for you and for me.
The "Aphikomen" would be raise from the dead, from the Secret Place, and the children and family would rejoice with great Joy because "He is Risen." Jesus is the Aphikomen. Jesus was the Lamb. Jesus was in and around the family when the death angel "Passed Over" the House. Without the blood of the Lamb, there can be no remission of sin. We are free to live, we are free to dance, we are free to Rejoice because of the the "At-one-ment" we have with the Lamb of God. Although we are free, this grace and mercy did not come cheap. The very best was offered up for you, and me.
"What wondrous love is this? Oh my soul. Oh my soul. What wondrous love is this? Oh my soul. What wondrous love is this that caused the Lord of bliss, to bear this dreadful curse for my soul?" All of our springs are in Him. HE is the fountain of Life Eternal.
Each year during the spring, The Jews celebrate an event we call "Passover." Because it has become common, many if the truths have been passed over or even ignored. Why did John the Baptist declare with his first words of Jesus "Behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world!"(?) Where did he get that idea?
In the spring of the year, The Jews would begin "cleaning house" in preparation for the Passover. Hence, we get the term "Spring cleaning." All levin or yeast had to be removed from the house, and that included all the dust and dirt. A little levin would be left for Papa to find when he did the grand inspection, and this was a tradition. The Father would select a young lamb and "bring him home" to live with the family during this week of "Celebration." This was no small thing, for it was commanded by Almighty God, to do yearly in remembrance of the Exodus from Egypt. Once the house was clean and the time was right, the lamb and the family would be locked in for the week. No work would be done during this week and this was family time. Squabbles would arise, there would be much discussion, and the children would play many games. This little lamb became a "pet" and the children and family would grow attached to it, much like we would a dog or cat, or any other pet one can imagine. Their minds would be "on God" and the Father would oversee the traditions of the family and would follow strict adherence to the Word of God.
On Friday around 6:00 pm, the lamb would be "slaughtered" for the sins of the family. Can't you hear the children begging, "Oh no Daddy, PLEASE DON'T KILL IT!" It had to be done, and the Father or one of the men would cut the lamb's throat and let the blood drain. There are many other symbols of Christ in the Passover. All of these can be read in a little book called "Christ in the Passover" by Moishe Rosen (Moishe is Moses in English).
The bread that was used plays a significant role as well. It was unlevined and it was "striped and pierced" and kept in a pouch. This pouch had three compartments: Upper, Middle, and Lower. The bread for the Passover would be pulled out of the Middle first and broken in half. One half of it would wrapped in a linen cloth and "buried" or hidden from the children so that it could be Resurrected at a latter time in the Passover. The hidden bread was known as the "Aphikomen."
There is much more to be said about this so I would recommend the reading of the book previously mentioned. Moving on to Jesus, the Jews were waiting for a Messiah, or Ha'Messhiach. When the lamb was slain, this was called the "atoning sacrifice" or "Atonement." This was the time the person realized they were "One" with God, or At-one-ment.
When Jesus walked on this Earth, He was the Pascal Lamb, the atoning sacrifice. He came to Earth to dwell with His family Israel - the children of God. We slaughtered Him! It was His Destiny and He did it because He loved us so much. Jesus was the bread of life and when we partake of communion bread we eat His flesh. When we drink the wine, we drink His blood. I do not believe this is literal, but it is a powerful symbol and remembrance of what HE did for us (me).
When Jesus died on the cross, He fulfilled the obligation of man's sin, the requirement of the blood. Sin brings death, and Jesus died for you and for me.
The "Aphikomen" would be raise from the dead, from the Secret Place, and the children and family would rejoice with great Joy because "He is Risen." Jesus is the Aphikomen. Jesus was the Lamb. Jesus was in and around the family when the death angel "Passed Over" the House. Without the blood of the Lamb, there can be no remission of sin. We are free to live, we are free to dance, we are free to Rejoice because of the the "At-one-ment" we have with the Lamb of God. Although we are free, this grace and mercy did not come cheap. The very best was offered up for you, and me.
"What wondrous love is this? Oh my soul. Oh my soul. What wondrous love is this? Oh my soul. What wondrous love is this that caused the Lord of bliss, to bear this dreadful curse for my soul?" All of our springs are in Him. HE is the fountain of Life Eternal.
Saturday, March 20, 2010
In Spirit and in Truth
The "Law" serves as our tutor, our teacher, until we find Christ Jesus as Lord and Saviour. The Word of God says that we should Worship God in "spirit and in truth." What does that mean? Many people share their opinions, but opinions are just that. What does God say? If we strive to please man, we may come up with an opinion that suits us. People who want to share their opinion are not often interested in the truth. The truth of God's Word is not always popular. God has an answer, but sometimes we must dig it out. God will answer the reason of "Why?"
"In Spirit and in Truth?" What is truth? Pontius Pilate asked this question to Jesus while standing face to face with the truth, the living Son of God. According to the Bible, God's Holy Word, "Thy Word is truth."The Word of God is life and it is good for teaching, instruction, reproof, and instruction in righteousness. The Word of God creates life. The light of God's Word expels the darkness within the human body from the inside out. That is NOT my opinion, it is the Word of the Lord. My opinion does not matter, only God's Word will stand in eternity. God's Word is "The Law" and noone can fulfill the whole truth of the law, save the Son of God, the "Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the World."
Now that we know the truth, "and we shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." What is the spirit? God is love, and that is a hint. God offers proof through His Word. "First the natural, then the spiritual." I used to think it was the other way around, but then I saw the truth in God's Word. There is a way that seems right to a man, but the end thereof is destruction. God wants us to move into maturity. When we do things in a spirit of love, we do not lose, God does not lose, and we all come out on top. It is truly a win-win situation. We can do good things though and still be wrong.
Motives are those little hidden things that noone sees but us and God. God's Word is a discerner of the "thoughts and intents of the heart."
There is a letter (character) in the Hebrew that represents God. It is composed of two "letters" and it is a compound letter. One of these is a letter which represents the "law" and the other part represents "love" and the total represents the Word of God. It is a birthing sound too. It is a creative force which speaks forth life.
The highest form of love is "agape" or "agapao" which is the kind of love that gives without expecting a return. This type of love is exemplified in the cross and the life of Jesus Christ. Love is the highest goal of the gospel. When we do things in "spirit and in truth," then we do things according to God's Word AND (the bonus, the Plus) in a spirit of love.
We can do things according to God's Word and it not be "right." When we do things according to the law, but in the flesh - then we offer "strange fire" on the altar. An example of this: A parent is commanded to "spare not the rod." "Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child, but the rod of correction drives it far from him (or her)." If we do not spank our children, the we say we know more than God. If we obey the Word of God, but we punish or spank in anger and in a spirit of rage, we sin there too. When we are in Unity with the Word of God, we do the thing God requires in the way God commanded and in a spirit of love. We have all "blown it" and only Christ is perfect. If Christ truly lives in us, shouldn't we act as He does? The Divine Symbiant living within the heart of the believer produces the fruit of the Father and of the Son of God.
Love is the highest form of the Law. Jesus is our example. Let us follow in His footsteps!
"In Spirit and in Truth?" What is truth? Pontius Pilate asked this question to Jesus while standing face to face with the truth, the living Son of God. According to the Bible, God's Holy Word, "Thy Word is truth."The Word of God is life and it is good for teaching, instruction, reproof, and instruction in righteousness. The Word of God creates life. The light of God's Word expels the darkness within the human body from the inside out. That is NOT my opinion, it is the Word of the Lord. My opinion does not matter, only God's Word will stand in eternity. God's Word is "The Law" and noone can fulfill the whole truth of the law, save the Son of God, the "Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the World."
Now that we know the truth, "and we shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." What is the spirit? God is love, and that is a hint. God offers proof through His Word. "First the natural, then the spiritual." I used to think it was the other way around, but then I saw the truth in God's Word. There is a way that seems right to a man, but the end thereof is destruction. God wants us to move into maturity. When we do things in a spirit of love, we do not lose, God does not lose, and we all come out on top. It is truly a win-win situation. We can do good things though and still be wrong.
Motives are those little hidden things that noone sees but us and God. God's Word is a discerner of the "thoughts and intents of the heart."
There is a letter (character) in the Hebrew that represents God. It is composed of two "letters" and it is a compound letter. One of these is a letter which represents the "law" and the other part represents "love" and the total represents the Word of God. It is a birthing sound too. It is a creative force which speaks forth life.
The highest form of love is "agape" or "agapao" which is the kind of love that gives without expecting a return. This type of love is exemplified in the cross and the life of Jesus Christ. Love is the highest goal of the gospel. When we do things in "spirit and in truth," then we do things according to God's Word AND (the bonus, the Plus) in a spirit of love.
We can do things according to God's Word and it not be "right." When we do things according to the law, but in the flesh - then we offer "strange fire" on the altar. An example of this: A parent is commanded to "spare not the rod." "Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child, but the rod of correction drives it far from him (or her)." If we do not spank our children, the we say we know more than God. If we obey the Word of God, but we punish or spank in anger and in a spirit of rage, we sin there too. When we are in Unity with the Word of God, we do the thing God requires in the way God commanded and in a spirit of love. We have all "blown it" and only Christ is perfect. If Christ truly lives in us, shouldn't we act as He does? The Divine Symbiant living within the heart of the believer produces the fruit of the Father and of the Son of God.
Love is the highest form of the Law. Jesus is our example. Let us follow in His footsteps!
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Get ready to die!
The inevitability of death lies before us at all times. We have to face it, one day we will all die. That doesn't mean that we should want to jump on that boat right away, but we must face the "death" scenario. Jesus came that we might have life, and that more abundantly. Jesus died on a cruel cross so that we can have life eternal.
I guess I am weird in some ways, but since my early childhood, I have though about death. My first "death poem" I wrote at seventeen on the night of my graduation. Suffering and loss come to one and all. God kept me sheltered for many years, but there comes a time when it just seems to strike. Death has no favorites, and it usually comes at very inopportune times.
We will all die, so what is the big deal. We will spend eternity in either Heaven with Jesus, or in hell with the devil. Everyone wants to go to heaven, but not everyone who cries "Lord, Lord" will enter into the gates of Heaven. That is no my opinion, it is in the BOOK - the Bible. Many people want to get to Heaven their own way, by good works. Many people say they know Jesus, but the problem is that HE does not know them. Many will come to Him in that day and say "Lord, we cast out demons, we healed the sick, we raised the dead, and He will say "I never knew you!"
When I was growing up in the church, a good sermon was determined by how much it made one cry, or by the decibel level. The content wasn't nearly as important as the emotional response. Salvation in church is often like marriage, it is easy to say "I do" but it a totally different thing to love the Lord with all of your heart, soul, mind and strength. I heard someone say the directions to Heaven were "turn right and go straight." If it were only that simple.
As we get older, sometimes life gets in the way. Business, schedules, work, pleasure, and a plethora of other things want to push Christ out of the picture. The Word will reign supremely in your life by choice and determination, or the world will push it out. Loving God is like loving a woman, it is done by choice and by commitment. Once the beginning stages of love and the winds begin to blow, like Peter we often take our eyes off of Jesus and we begin to sink. In His love, He lifts us up. It is not about us, it is all about Jesus. On the other hand, we have our part. He doesn't live for us.
Death will come to one and to all. When is not necessarily the issue, but "are you ready?" or "will you be ready when it comes?" We can rest in the love of the Father if we have given everything to Him. Jesus wants to be Lord of all, or He does not want to be Lord at all. It is everything or nothing with Him.
Are you ready for Death? If not, now is the time, today is the day of salvation. There will be no repentance after death, and there is no purgatory!!! You can pray for dead people all day long and it will do no good. That is not opinion, that is a Divine fact. If we are to live for Him, we must do so according to what He says, not by what we think or by what we feel. We need not be perfect. Noone can live under that kind of pressure, I know.
If we suffer with Him, we will also reign with Him. "Inasmuch as you have done it unto the least of these thy brethren, you have done it unto me."_Jesus
One day we will stand around the Throne singing and crying "Holy, Holy, Holy!!!" We can do that now. Sing for your Papa. We have received the spirit of adoption whereby we cry "ABBA" Father. Let us give Him our all, then we can rest in peace - both now and forevermore!
I guess I am weird in some ways, but since my early childhood, I have though about death. My first "death poem" I wrote at seventeen on the night of my graduation. Suffering and loss come to one and all. God kept me sheltered for many years, but there comes a time when it just seems to strike. Death has no favorites, and it usually comes at very inopportune times.
We will all die, so what is the big deal. We will spend eternity in either Heaven with Jesus, or in hell with the devil. Everyone wants to go to heaven, but not everyone who cries "Lord, Lord" will enter into the gates of Heaven. That is no my opinion, it is in the BOOK - the Bible. Many people want to get to Heaven their own way, by good works. Many people say they know Jesus, but the problem is that HE does not know them. Many will come to Him in that day and say "Lord, we cast out demons, we healed the sick, we raised the dead, and He will say "I never knew you!"
When I was growing up in the church, a good sermon was determined by how much it made one cry, or by the decibel level. The content wasn't nearly as important as the emotional response. Salvation in church is often like marriage, it is easy to say "I do" but it a totally different thing to love the Lord with all of your heart, soul, mind and strength. I heard someone say the directions to Heaven were "turn right and go straight." If it were only that simple.
As we get older, sometimes life gets in the way. Business, schedules, work, pleasure, and a plethora of other things want to push Christ out of the picture. The Word will reign supremely in your life by choice and determination, or the world will push it out. Loving God is like loving a woman, it is done by choice and by commitment. Once the beginning stages of love and the winds begin to blow, like Peter we often take our eyes off of Jesus and we begin to sink. In His love, He lifts us up. It is not about us, it is all about Jesus. On the other hand, we have our part. He doesn't live for us.
Death will come to one and to all. When is not necessarily the issue, but "are you ready?" or "will you be ready when it comes?" We can rest in the love of the Father if we have given everything to Him. Jesus wants to be Lord of all, or He does not want to be Lord at all. It is everything or nothing with Him.
Are you ready for Death? If not, now is the time, today is the day of salvation. There will be no repentance after death, and there is no purgatory!!! You can pray for dead people all day long and it will do no good. That is not opinion, that is a Divine fact. If we are to live for Him, we must do so according to what He says, not by what we think or by what we feel. We need not be perfect. Noone can live under that kind of pressure, I know.
If we suffer with Him, we will also reign with Him. "Inasmuch as you have done it unto the least of these thy brethren, you have done it unto me."_Jesus
One day we will stand around the Throne singing and crying "Holy, Holy, Holy!!!" We can do that now. Sing for your Papa. We have received the spirit of adoption whereby we cry "ABBA" Father. Let us give Him our all, then we can rest in peace - both now and forevermore!
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Who is you source?
What if we had another collapse in the stock market? What if this time it was not just in America, but it was world wide? Is Jesus your source? There are many names for G_d. Jesus came in the flesh to die as a man, for the sins of all mankind. If we suffer with Him, we will also reign with Him. Sometimes the concept of GOD is more than we can fathom.
Right now, this Earth is undergoing a shaking, both in the spirit and in the natural. First the natural, then the spiritual comes. I didn't say that, God did. My opinion doesn't matter, well at least not much. If man says something, you may discount it and cast it aside. On the other hand, if God is speaking through a man, whether he be a man of the cloth or just an everyday "Joe," you had better listen.
When we meditate on God's Word, when men cry "peace and safety" then comes sudden destruction. Disaster does not come at convenient times, but often comes when all hell is breaking forth in what seems to be in every area of our lives. Like a house being remodeled, it seems to get worse, or maybe even more worse before it gets better. Sometimes it seems as though things will never get better. Like the old saying from the 1970's, "Life is a bitch, then you die." Sometimes life seems that way, but it is not God's way.
The Bible says that "I have come that you might have life and that more abundantly." Jesus died for us that we might have freedom. On the other hand, the same Bible says that the "righteous will suffer." "Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivers him out of them all."
When Moses appeared before Pharoah to tell him that GOD said, "Let my people go!" Pharoah did not immediately comply. The Israelites suffered along with the Egyptians, but there came a time of separation. There comes a time when God draws the line and He says "Enough!" In the land of Goshen, there were no harmful effects. The Israelites were NOT affected by the later plagues of the Egyptians.
When the Jews were leaving, God placed a cloud for them behind them. It was between the Jews on one hand and the Egyptian army on the other. This cloud was "light" to the Jews, but this same cloud was "darkness" to the Egyptian Army. The Egyptians were able to match Moses' miracles at first, even though Moses' rod which became a snake ate their's, there came a time where even the sorcerers said "This is the hand of God!"
If the world stock market crashed tomorrow, would you be secure with Jesus alone? Could you rest in Him without fear and say like Job stated, "Though HE slay me, yet will I trust Him!" A hundred years after Abraham Lincoln was assassinated, John F Kennedy suffered the same fate. Has it been a hundred years since the stock market crashed? Many things repeat on a one hundred year cycle. This would be awful: numerous people would commit suicide, people would panic, people would loot cities and chaos would reign supremely. I hope and pray that this does not happen, but what if? The Lord is shaking things up. America is very close to becoming another Hitler's Germany. Hitler's name may be Obama. I pray for our President, but he is taking us down a path that will lead to certain destruction. If there has ever been a time to pray, it is now!!!
One of God's name is Jehovah Jireh, God our Provider. Either HE is our husband or HE is not. The shepherd provides for His sheep. Not because of what they do, but because they belong to Him. Provision only comes to those who are owned by the Shepherd. He prepares a table for us in the very presence of our enemies. We have no need to fear. God will provide. I wonder how Noah felt when he heard the screams of those outside the ARK. When God says "GO!," we should move. We often get locked in to a body, but the word of God says that God is with us "wherever we go."(Joshua 1:9) I pray that our ears will be fine tuned to our Master's voice. The only thing that sheep must do is follow their Master's voice. He that hath an ear, let him hear what God is saying to the church in this hour!
Right now, this Earth is undergoing a shaking, both in the spirit and in the natural. First the natural, then the spiritual comes. I didn't say that, God did. My opinion doesn't matter, well at least not much. If man says something, you may discount it and cast it aside. On the other hand, if God is speaking through a man, whether he be a man of the cloth or just an everyday "Joe," you had better listen.
When we meditate on God's Word, when men cry "peace and safety" then comes sudden destruction. Disaster does not come at convenient times, but often comes when all hell is breaking forth in what seems to be in every area of our lives. Like a house being remodeled, it seems to get worse, or maybe even more worse before it gets better. Sometimes it seems as though things will never get better. Like the old saying from the 1970's, "Life is a bitch, then you die." Sometimes life seems that way, but it is not God's way.
The Bible says that "I have come that you might have life and that more abundantly." Jesus died for us that we might have freedom. On the other hand, the same Bible says that the "righteous will suffer." "Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivers him out of them all."
When Moses appeared before Pharoah to tell him that GOD said, "Let my people go!" Pharoah did not immediately comply. The Israelites suffered along with the Egyptians, but there came a time of separation. There comes a time when God draws the line and He says "Enough!" In the land of Goshen, there were no harmful effects. The Israelites were NOT affected by the later plagues of the Egyptians.
When the Jews were leaving, God placed a cloud for them behind them. It was between the Jews on one hand and the Egyptian army on the other. This cloud was "light" to the Jews, but this same cloud was "darkness" to the Egyptian Army. The Egyptians were able to match Moses' miracles at first, even though Moses' rod which became a snake ate their's, there came a time where even the sorcerers said "This is the hand of God!"
If the world stock market crashed tomorrow, would you be secure with Jesus alone? Could you rest in Him without fear and say like Job stated, "Though HE slay me, yet will I trust Him!" A hundred years after Abraham Lincoln was assassinated, John F Kennedy suffered the same fate. Has it been a hundred years since the stock market crashed? Many things repeat on a one hundred year cycle. This would be awful: numerous people would commit suicide, people would panic, people would loot cities and chaos would reign supremely. I hope and pray that this does not happen, but what if? The Lord is shaking things up. America is very close to becoming another Hitler's Germany. Hitler's name may be Obama. I pray for our President, but he is taking us down a path that will lead to certain destruction. If there has ever been a time to pray, it is now!!!
One of God's name is Jehovah Jireh, God our Provider. Either HE is our husband or HE is not. The shepherd provides for His sheep. Not because of what they do, but because they belong to Him. Provision only comes to those who are owned by the Shepherd. He prepares a table for us in the very presence of our enemies. We have no need to fear. God will provide. I wonder how Noah felt when he heard the screams of those outside the ARK. When God says "GO!," we should move. We often get locked in to a body, but the word of God says that God is with us "wherever we go."(Joshua 1:9) I pray that our ears will be fine tuned to our Master's voice. The only thing that sheep must do is follow their Master's voice. He that hath an ear, let him hear what God is saying to the church in this hour!
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Psalms 23 (expanded) #2
"The Lord is my shepherd." Is the LORD, the God of Heaven and Earth, your shepherd? The LORD sees everything, He is the King and we are His subjects. We live in the Kingdom, but we Worship the King. The Shepherd, the Good Shepherd, knows His flocks - each one by name, and HE is intimately acquainted with their ways.
"I shall not want" - In Christ there is no lack of substance, He provides and He guides. He places His sheep in green fields where there is abundance of grain.
"He makes me lie down"- God does not force the sheep to lie down. When sheep are well fed, and when they are free from fear, then they simply lie down. When they see the Shepherd in the field, and after they have eaten and are full, then they lie down.
"In green pastures" - God knows, the Good Shepherd knows where the pastures of lush green are located. He may have even ben the one who planted the grass, or the one who sowed the seed for it to come up. The shepherd wants the best for His sheep. Our God is rich! We belong to Him.
"He leads me beside the still (quiet) waters." Sheep are funny little creatures, and they are very fearful. A child could run across the field and they would all scatter. They will not drink from noisy, or rushing waters. The water must be still. A great book to read on this is "A Shepherd looks at Psalm 23" by Phillip W. Keller. Another good book is "Manners and Customs of Bible Lands" by Fred Wight, published in 1957. His chapter on "Care of the Sheep and Goats" is my main source for these little tid bits.
"He restores my soul" - He takes care of the physical body, the needs of the flesh are met. Sheep need food and water to live. The Shepherd provides for the needs of the Sheep.
"He guides me" - The Shepherd leads, the sheep follow. Sheep are dumb animals. If one sheep wanders off a cliff, the rest will follow. Where the Shepherd goes, when He calls to them and they begin to follow, they go with the shepherd. Psalms 32:8 says that "He will guide us along the best pathway for our life." As one of His sheep, I take great comfort in that verse. We do NOT lead, HE does. That must mean that we must follow Him, not vice versa.
"In paths of righteousness" - This is not a common path. His path is the right path. When we follow Him, we are taking a path of righteousness. Note: It is not a "path" of righteousness, but rather "paths" of righteousness. This does not mean that there are "many paths to God," but that there are many paths for the righteous to walk upon. There are different levels of grazing with sheep, and there are various levels of maturity in Christ. As the sheep get older, I'm sure that their diet must change to some degree. Sometimes the sheep have to walk down a path to get to another field, or to another pasture. Seasons change, and we do not always stay put forever. The shepherd allows us the freedom to move around.
"For His name's sake" - The sheep have a brand that signifies the name of their owner. The shepherd does not tend everyone's sheep, only those who belong to him or to His Father. Shepherd's are often young men or boys who are "sent into the field" to watch over the sheep for their Father. Such was the case of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, and Jesus. The customs in Israel have not changed in over 2000 years. The Shepherds were in the field the night of Jesus' birth. It was the "Angel of the Lord" that appeared to them first.
"Even though I walk through the valley" - We do the walking. When the Shepherd moves, the sheep follow Him. There are always exclusions in the law, for nothing is chiseled in stone (except the ten commandments). When sheep are young, they often run away. If this happens too often, the Shepherd breaks their hind legs. This is painful, but He knows it will heal. He has done this many times, and there are lessons to be learned. This is a time when the sheep get to "know" their Shepherd. The sheep may not realize it at the time, but he (or she) is about to learn the heart or nature of the Shepherd. Once this is known, the sheep will never run away again. The sheep, now that the legs are broken, has to be carried by the Shepherd. The Shepherd knows what to do. A "relationship" is about to begin between Him and the sheep. He carries the sheep around His neck. The sheep may urinate of defecate on Him, but that is what animals do when they are fearful. When He stops, he places the sheep or lamb beside Him, and feeds this little one by hand. He strokes it, he plays the harp or flute for it, He hears and gets to know "His Master's Voice."
"of the shadow of death" - This may often feel like they are going to die. It is NOT death, just a shadow. A shadow does not kill, the real does. A shadow follows something, or hides behind it. This process may feel like death, but it is not the real death. Sometimes the real is not nearly as scary as the imagined, and I believe this is what the writer means. Children often wail like they are being killed, but when they realize, "Hey, that wasn't so bad!," then they go about their business.
"I will fear no evil." Fear hath torment. When the sheep know the shepherd, when they see Him and know He will take care of them, even if they are attacked - they simply "cry out" to Him and they are safe. When there is no fear, they lie down. Perfect love, knowledge of the Holy - the Good Shepherd, casts out all fear.
"For Thou art with me" - His name is Emmanuel, Deus Nobiscum, the God who is with us. He never leaves His sheep unattended or uncared for. The Good Shepherd always makes provision for His sheep. They are secure in Him.
"Thy rod and Thy staff, they comfort me." Why is this in scripture? Why do we gloss over or pass this by? It is because we do not know the tools of the shepherd. The shepherd carries a bag called a "scrip" and into this bag went dried fruit, raisins, fig cakes, dates, almonds, and once some rocks for a shepherd named "David." The shepherd carried a sling too. The rod eventually became the scepter of the King. It looked like a pointed stick with ball on one end. This was often used like a club. It was used to beat off foxes, lions, tigers, bears, etc...the enemy of the sheep. Through the ball end were often driven a nail or nails. These nails would sink into the skull of the animal that was attacking and it would "pith" them off. It would crack their skull, leaving the animal dead, dying, or maimed in some way. The only time it would be used on the sheep would be when the shepherd would could count the sheep. The tenth one would be "marked" with ink. Every tenth sheep would be offered as a sacrifice. God determined this and it was random. Sometimes the favorites had to go to God. The staff was the support for the shepherd. It would be used to "tap" the sides of the sheep to get them back on the right track. The crook end as often used to draw the sheep to them Good Shepherd for inspection. They would pass by the shepherd and He would "hook" them. There was no getting away from Him. During this time He might apply a paste or balm to the head of the sheep, or some type of oil or paste around the eyes, ears, and nose of the sheep. This kept away the enemy too. Sometimes, the sheep were drawn by love, just to be hugged, scratch the ears, etc..
"Thou dost prepare a table before me in the presence of mine enemies." The fields were open to all animals. Jesus said "Whosoever will may come." The enemy is always welcome to come alongside, but never to attack. The sheep ate out in the field right in front of other animals - the lions, in front of the foxes, the wolves, the hyennaes, the jackals, etc... The pastures were prepared for the sheep. The sheep ate in front of their enemies, but the Good Shepherd was watching, ready to defend.
"Thou hast anointed my head with oil." I often wonder if this was Olive Oil. Everything about the Olive represents Jesus. The things of nature often depict the things of God. There was an "oil" that was applied to keep off the "Bot flies" and other evil pests that would irritate the sheep. Bot flies would lay their eggs in the nose, eyes, or ears (usually the nose or ears) of a sheep. Once inside, a barb was attached to the the wall or lining inside and they would begin to feed on the sheep. As the maggot gets bigger, it begins to twirl around inside, and the sheep begins to get irritated. If left alone, the sheep will beat his or her head against a tree or rock until it is dead. This healing balm prevents this from happening. This is a pro-active solution. This is preparation in advance. Praise God for His love which removes the pests ahead of time.
"My cup overflows." - God's abundant provision is always "more than enough." It is pressed down, shaken together, and running over.
"Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life" - because of what the shepherd does, the natural following is peace and rest. The goodness of the Good Shepherd and His mercy makes the sheep to lie down, to be content, to be at rest. It is not because of what the sheep do, but because of the goodness and mercy of the Shepherd. This will happen even to the grey head. He watches over us all the days of our lives! Can you say "Hallelujah?" Thank You Jesus!
"And I will dwell in the House of the Lord forever." This world is not our home, we are just a passin' thru! We are citizens of Heaven. One day we will live in the home of the Good Shepherd the King, like Mephibosheth. Praise God!!!
"I shall not want" - In Christ there is no lack of substance, He provides and He guides. He places His sheep in green fields where there is abundance of grain.
"He makes me lie down"- God does not force the sheep to lie down. When sheep are well fed, and when they are free from fear, then they simply lie down. When they see the Shepherd in the field, and after they have eaten and are full, then they lie down.
"In green pastures" - God knows, the Good Shepherd knows where the pastures of lush green are located. He may have even ben the one who planted the grass, or the one who sowed the seed for it to come up. The shepherd wants the best for His sheep. Our God is rich! We belong to Him.
"He leads me beside the still (quiet) waters." Sheep are funny little creatures, and they are very fearful. A child could run across the field and they would all scatter. They will not drink from noisy, or rushing waters. The water must be still. A great book to read on this is "A Shepherd looks at Psalm 23" by Phillip W. Keller. Another good book is "Manners and Customs of Bible Lands" by Fred Wight, published in 1957. His chapter on "Care of the Sheep and Goats" is my main source for these little tid bits.
"He restores my soul" - He takes care of the physical body, the needs of the flesh are met. Sheep need food and water to live. The Shepherd provides for the needs of the Sheep.
"He guides me" - The Shepherd leads, the sheep follow. Sheep are dumb animals. If one sheep wanders off a cliff, the rest will follow. Where the Shepherd goes, when He calls to them and they begin to follow, they go with the shepherd. Psalms 32:8 says that "He will guide us along the best pathway for our life." As one of His sheep, I take great comfort in that verse. We do NOT lead, HE does. That must mean that we must follow Him, not vice versa.
"In paths of righteousness" - This is not a common path. His path is the right path. When we follow Him, we are taking a path of righteousness. Note: It is not a "path" of righteousness, but rather "paths" of righteousness. This does not mean that there are "many paths to God," but that there are many paths for the righteous to walk upon. There are different levels of grazing with sheep, and there are various levels of maturity in Christ. As the sheep get older, I'm sure that their diet must change to some degree. Sometimes the sheep have to walk down a path to get to another field, or to another pasture. Seasons change, and we do not always stay put forever. The shepherd allows us the freedom to move around.
"For His name's sake" - The sheep have a brand that signifies the name of their owner. The shepherd does not tend everyone's sheep, only those who belong to him or to His Father. Shepherd's are often young men or boys who are "sent into the field" to watch over the sheep for their Father. Such was the case of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, and Jesus. The customs in Israel have not changed in over 2000 years. The Shepherds were in the field the night of Jesus' birth. It was the "Angel of the Lord" that appeared to them first.
"Even though I walk through the valley" - We do the walking. When the Shepherd moves, the sheep follow Him. There are always exclusions in the law, for nothing is chiseled in stone (except the ten commandments). When sheep are young, they often run away. If this happens too often, the Shepherd breaks their hind legs. This is painful, but He knows it will heal. He has done this many times, and there are lessons to be learned. This is a time when the sheep get to "know" their Shepherd. The sheep may not realize it at the time, but he (or she) is about to learn the heart or nature of the Shepherd. Once this is known, the sheep will never run away again. The sheep, now that the legs are broken, has to be carried by the Shepherd. The Shepherd knows what to do. A "relationship" is about to begin between Him and the sheep. He carries the sheep around His neck. The sheep may urinate of defecate on Him, but that is what animals do when they are fearful. When He stops, he places the sheep or lamb beside Him, and feeds this little one by hand. He strokes it, he plays the harp or flute for it, He hears and gets to know "His Master's Voice."
"of the shadow of death" - This may often feel like they are going to die. It is NOT death, just a shadow. A shadow does not kill, the real does. A shadow follows something, or hides behind it. This process may feel like death, but it is not the real death. Sometimes the real is not nearly as scary as the imagined, and I believe this is what the writer means. Children often wail like they are being killed, but when they realize, "Hey, that wasn't so bad!," then they go about their business.
"I will fear no evil." Fear hath torment. When the sheep know the shepherd, when they see Him and know He will take care of them, even if they are attacked - they simply "cry out" to Him and they are safe. When there is no fear, they lie down. Perfect love, knowledge of the Holy - the Good Shepherd, casts out all fear.
"For Thou art with me" - His name is Emmanuel, Deus Nobiscum, the God who is with us. He never leaves His sheep unattended or uncared for. The Good Shepherd always makes provision for His sheep. They are secure in Him.
"Thy rod and Thy staff, they comfort me." Why is this in scripture? Why do we gloss over or pass this by? It is because we do not know the tools of the shepherd. The shepherd carries a bag called a "scrip" and into this bag went dried fruit, raisins, fig cakes, dates, almonds, and once some rocks for a shepherd named "David." The shepherd carried a sling too. The rod eventually became the scepter of the King. It looked like a pointed stick with ball on one end. This was often used like a club. It was used to beat off foxes, lions, tigers, bears, etc...the enemy of the sheep. Through the ball end were often driven a nail or nails. These nails would sink into the skull of the animal that was attacking and it would "pith" them off. It would crack their skull, leaving the animal dead, dying, or maimed in some way. The only time it would be used on the sheep would be when the shepherd would could count the sheep. The tenth one would be "marked" with ink. Every tenth sheep would be offered as a sacrifice. God determined this and it was random. Sometimes the favorites had to go to God. The staff was the support for the shepherd. It would be used to "tap" the sides of the sheep to get them back on the right track. The crook end as often used to draw the sheep to them Good Shepherd for inspection. They would pass by the shepherd and He would "hook" them. There was no getting away from Him. During this time He might apply a paste or balm to the head of the sheep, or some type of oil or paste around the eyes, ears, and nose of the sheep. This kept away the enemy too. Sometimes, the sheep were drawn by love, just to be hugged, scratch the ears, etc..
"Thou dost prepare a table before me in the presence of mine enemies." The fields were open to all animals. Jesus said "Whosoever will may come." The enemy is always welcome to come alongside, but never to attack. The sheep ate out in the field right in front of other animals - the lions, in front of the foxes, the wolves, the hyennaes, the jackals, etc... The pastures were prepared for the sheep. The sheep ate in front of their enemies, but the Good Shepherd was watching, ready to defend.
"Thou hast anointed my head with oil." I often wonder if this was Olive Oil. Everything about the Olive represents Jesus. The things of nature often depict the things of God. There was an "oil" that was applied to keep off the "Bot flies" and other evil pests that would irritate the sheep. Bot flies would lay their eggs in the nose, eyes, or ears (usually the nose or ears) of a sheep. Once inside, a barb was attached to the the wall or lining inside and they would begin to feed on the sheep. As the maggot gets bigger, it begins to twirl around inside, and the sheep begins to get irritated. If left alone, the sheep will beat his or her head against a tree or rock until it is dead. This healing balm prevents this from happening. This is a pro-active solution. This is preparation in advance. Praise God for His love which removes the pests ahead of time.
"My cup overflows." - God's abundant provision is always "more than enough." It is pressed down, shaken together, and running over.
"Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life" - because of what the shepherd does, the natural following is peace and rest. The goodness of the Good Shepherd and His mercy makes the sheep to lie down, to be content, to be at rest. It is not because of what the sheep do, but because of the goodness and mercy of the Shepherd. This will happen even to the grey head. He watches over us all the days of our lives! Can you say "Hallelujah?" Thank You Jesus!
"And I will dwell in the House of the Lord forever." This world is not our home, we are just a passin' thru! We are citizens of Heaven. One day we will live in the home of the Good Shepherd the King, like Mephibosheth. Praise God!!!
Monday, February 1, 2010
Some thoughts on Psalms23
"The Lord" - Jesus, the King of the Universe, God, Holy Spirit, the One who rules from Heaven
(Who is your "LORD?")
"is my Shepherd" - "my" denotes belonging to, ownership
"Shepherd" - the leader in the field, the One who Oversees, Shepherds takes care of
every aspect of the Sheep, HE is the protector, defender, provider, etc...
"He makes me lie down" - NOTE: He does it. When the sheep see the Shepherd in
the field, they are "at rest." The Shepherd "causes" the sheep to lie down.
"In green Pastures" - Abundance, His provision, God's "more than enough."
"He leads me" - HE (Jesus) is the director, He leads - we follow. He goes before us...
"beside still waters" - Sheep are skiddish, they will run away from loud water, the streams must be
still or quiet. "Be still and know that I am God." Water represents the Word.
"He restores" - Note: He does the work, not us. Restore means to make new or as it was in the
beginning.
"my soul" - Identity, the essence of your being, the emotions, the embodiment of "self"
"He guides me" - the Leader, the Director, the tour guide
"in paths of righteousness" - the right way of doing things, His way, the proper or acceptable way.
"For His name's sake" - the One who signs the deed, the King, the Owner, the One who's reputation
is at stake. GOD is His office, not His name. His name is Jesus or Yahweh. The
two names (O.T. and N.T.) are enharmonic (the same). One is Greek, One is
Hebrew.
"Yea, though I walk" - We travel, we are going somewhere but are following His lead. We do the
walking, He doesn't walk for us. (Sometimes though He carries the young
sheep, but NOT the old.)
"through the valley" - we walk in "low" places, or humble places.
"of the shadow" - the is not the real, but the reflection of the real. The shadow follows the real.
"of Death" - the absence of life, the end or cessation of life. That which begins to "rot" or decay.
"I will fear no evil" - Evil does not harm the dead, the enemies of the sheep do not attack when they
see the Shepherd. The Shepherd give the sheep "security."
"For You are with me" - One who comes along by the side, (Emmanuel) "God with us." Companion.
"Your rod and staff" - two "tools" of the Shepherd: the rod was used to beat off the enemy, through its
head (ball end) were driven nails to beat off the enemy. The Staff had a "crook"
which was used to "draw" or "pull" the sheep to the Shepherd to care for their
welfare or well-being. This was for affection and protection.
"They comfort me" - Relationship with the Shepherd, the sheep who knew the Shepherd draw comfort
from these "special" times with the Shepherd.
"You prepare a table before me" - The Good Shepherd knows where the best pastures are, HE plans
ahead, He knows the times and the seasons.
"In the presence of my enemies" - Though the enemy is there, the sheep eat safely because of the Good
Shepherd. The Sheep eat right in front of their enemies.
"You anoint my head" - an ointment was prepared to keep away "Bot flies" or other "pests" which
would attack the mucus membranes. The head was the main place for unseen
enemies. This paste or oil would be a protection.
"My cup runs over" - God's more than enough, Satisfaction, at peace, never in lack.
"Surely goodness and mercy" - The Good Shepherd takes care of His flock with love and kindness, He
is tender and kind, not harsh.
"Shall follow me" - these things happen as a result of what HE does. They follow us when we follow
Him.
"All the days of my life" - from birth till death. Never a dull moment with Him!
"And I will dwell" - residence, the place where we live, abode, home, the place where we sleep.
"in the House of the Lord" - God's House, Heaven, the Eternal Home, The Palace of the King of Kings.
"forever." - forever, for eternity.
(Who is your "LORD?")
"is my Shepherd" - "my" denotes belonging to, ownership
"Shepherd" - the leader in the field, the One who Oversees, Shepherds takes care of
every aspect of the Sheep, HE is the protector, defender, provider, etc...
"He makes me lie down" - NOTE: He does it. When the sheep see the Shepherd in
the field, they are "at rest." The Shepherd "causes" the sheep to lie down.
"In green Pastures" - Abundance, His provision, God's "more than enough."
"He leads me" - HE (Jesus) is the director, He leads - we follow. He goes before us...
"beside still waters" - Sheep are skiddish, they will run away from loud water, the streams must be
still or quiet. "Be still and know that I am God." Water represents the Word.
"He restores" - Note: He does the work, not us. Restore means to make new or as it was in the
beginning.
"my soul" - Identity, the essence of your being, the emotions, the embodiment of "self"
"He guides me" - the Leader, the Director, the tour guide
"in paths of righteousness" - the right way of doing things, His way, the proper or acceptable way.
"For His name's sake" - the One who signs the deed, the King, the Owner, the One who's reputation
is at stake. GOD is His office, not His name. His name is Jesus or Yahweh. The
two names (O.T. and N.T.) are enharmonic (the same). One is Greek, One is
Hebrew.
"Yea, though I walk" - We travel, we are going somewhere but are following His lead. We do the
walking, He doesn't walk for us. (Sometimes though He carries the young
sheep, but NOT the old.)
"through the valley" - we walk in "low" places, or humble places.
"of the shadow" - the is not the real, but the reflection of the real. The shadow follows the real.
"of Death" - the absence of life, the end or cessation of life. That which begins to "rot" or decay.
"I will fear no evil" - Evil does not harm the dead, the enemies of the sheep do not attack when they
see the Shepherd. The Shepherd give the sheep "security."
"For You are with me" - One who comes along by the side, (Emmanuel) "God with us." Companion.
"Your rod and staff" - two "tools" of the Shepherd: the rod was used to beat off the enemy, through its
head (ball end) were driven nails to beat off the enemy. The Staff had a "crook"
which was used to "draw" or "pull" the sheep to the Shepherd to care for their
welfare or well-being. This was for affection and protection.
"They comfort me" - Relationship with the Shepherd, the sheep who knew the Shepherd draw comfort
from these "special" times with the Shepherd.
"You prepare a table before me" - The Good Shepherd knows where the best pastures are, HE plans
ahead, He knows the times and the seasons.
"In the presence of my enemies" - Though the enemy is there, the sheep eat safely because of the Good
Shepherd. The Sheep eat right in front of their enemies.
"You anoint my head" - an ointment was prepared to keep away "Bot flies" or other "pests" which
would attack the mucus membranes. The head was the main place for unseen
enemies. This paste or oil would be a protection.
"My cup runs over" - God's more than enough, Satisfaction, at peace, never in lack.
"Surely goodness and mercy" - The Good Shepherd takes care of His flock with love and kindness, He
is tender and kind, not harsh.
"Shall follow me" - these things happen as a result of what HE does. They follow us when we follow
Him.
"All the days of my life" - from birth till death. Never a dull moment with Him!
"And I will dwell" - residence, the place where we live, abode, home, the place where we sleep.
"in the House of the Lord" - God's House, Heaven, the Eternal Home, The Palace of the King of Kings.
"forever." - forever, for eternity.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)