And the Holy Spirit also bears witness to us; for after saying, “This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, declares the Lord: I will put my laws on their hearts,and write them on their minds,” then he adds, “I will remember their sins and their lawless deeds no more.”

Hebrews 10:1-18

And the Holy Spirit also bears witness to us; for after saying, “This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, declares the Lord: I will put my laws on their hearts,and write them on their minds,” then he adds, “I will remember their sins and their lawless deeds no more.” Hebrews 10:15-17

I continue my study of Hebrews, and in the text today - Hebrews 10:1-18  - the author of Hebrews keeps building on this theme of Jesus is better as He does what the animal sacrifices could not do with the first covenant - He offers forgiveness of sins and eternal life.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.  

• What do we learn from the text about God?: Jesus is better than the Old Testament as it pointed to Christ - the text today shares how Jesus quoted Psalm 40:6 where he says that His desire is not for animal sacrifice but for our hearts to love Him.  Vv12-13 Jesus is sitting at the right hand of God, waiting for end times to finally defeat His enemies, including Satan.  Just as He does in Hebrews 8, Jesus quotes Jeremiah 31 and shares in vv15-17 that the "Holy Spirit also bears witness to [believers]" by first putting His Word in their hearts and writing on their minds.  Thus, the Holy Spirit serves to intercede and testify for us to God the Father to justify us and render us guiltless - able to be saved - how incredible!       
• What do we learn from the text about people?: Vv1-4, 8-9 demonstrate that the Old Testament sacrifices could not do what Jesus accomplished - to permanently offer forgiveness of sin. This reinforces a key part of the New Covenant through - that there is nothing any one of us can do to earn our salvation as Jesus has already done this.  We must therefore confess and surrender our lives to Him to be saved. V10,14 share how Christ not only saves us but He sanctifies us. 
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Avoid thinking there is anything you can do to earn salvation.  Claim the promise of how the Holy Spirit testifies on our behalf and lives in our hearts and minds through the Word.  Confess with your tongue that Jesus is Lord and be saved! 

Comment and discuss this post

My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and saves and testifies on our behalf and justifies us in Your eyes!  Thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of how You testify on my behalf and save.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

Christ…will appear a second time, not to deal with sin, but to save those who are eagerly waiting for Him.

Hebrews 9

Christ…will appear a second time, not to deal with sin, but to save those who are eagerly waiting for Him. Hebrews 9:28

I continue my study of Hebrews, and in the text today - Hebrews 9  - the author of Hebrews builds on the theme of Jesus is better from previous chapters by describing how Jesus’ sacrifice ended the need for annual ritual washings and sacrifices for atonement of sin.    Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.  

• What do we learn from the text about God?:  V14: God saves as He is able to “purify our conscience from dead works to serve the living God.”  V15: Jesus is the mediator of the new covenant of His shed blood, and this new covenant gives believers an eternal inheritance, providing victory over both sin and death. Jesus had to die to give us this inheritance because the inheritance only passes to the children (believers) upon instructions given in the will, and the will of the Father was for the Son to die such that we could receive the inheritance – vv16-17.  The animal blood sacrifices from the Old Testament were needed but only “copies of the heavenly things to be purified” and the death of Jesus represented the heavenly things by offering a better sacrifice (a spotless and final one) – vv18-23.  In contrast to the human high priest an man-made tabernacle, Jesus entered the Most Holy Place - heaven, through His final and perfect sacrifice – vv24-25.  With Jesus, it was no longer necessary for the human high priest to offer annual animal sacrifices – v26. Christ “will appear a second time, not to deal with sin, but to save those who are eagerly waiting for Him” – v28.
• What do we learn from the text about people?: Vv8-9: The acts of man to save himself are empty as “gifts and sacrifices [that] are offered…cannot perfect the conscience of the worship.”  The tent erected by man during the Old Testament is also lesser than the temple of Jesus’ body – vv11-12.  We need a savior.  
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Avoid trying to save yourself as there is nothing you can do to achieve salvation.  Claim the promise that the victory over sin and death is assured as an inheritance for believers and that at the end of times He will save those who are eagerly waiting for Him.  Follow the example of Christ who submitted to the will of the Father to receive the rich inheritance of Christ.  Confess your sin and surrender to Christ as Lord and Savior.  

Comment and discuss this post

My Prayer: Father God, you are an awesome God who stands alone as able to save.  I am not deserving of such a gift of my salvation - the greatest gift of all time. My sin is great and it  continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day. 

For I will be merciful toward their iniquities, and I will remember their sins no more.

Hebrews 8:1-13

For I will be merciful toward their iniquities, and I will remember their sins no more. Jeremiah 31:34b, Hebrews 8:12

I continue my study of Hebrews, and in the text today - Hebrews 8:1-13  - the author of Hebrews builds on Hebrews 7 - where the text discusses why Jesus is a better high priest - by describing how the new covenant through Christ's blood is a better covenant (than the first covenant).  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.  

• What do we learn from the text about God?: Vv1-2: Jesus is seated at the right hand of God in Heaven in a tabernacle not built by human hands.  V3: The sacrifice that Jesus offers is superior to those offered in the first covenant - it is perfect and final - and the those offered with the first covenant were only "a copy and shadow" of the things to come.  As such Jesus fulfilled prophecy.  Vv5-6: This new covenant is better because it "was enacted on better promises." Vv7-9: The first covenant required obedience to the law and God knew the people could not keep this covenant so He had already planned to send His Son and provide for the second covenant.  Vv10-13: With this new covenant, Jesus lives in our hearts and "all [believers] shall know" God as they have a personal relationship with Him.  This new covenant offers forgiveness in sins in a way that the first covenant could not because it required ongoing sacrifices.  With Jesus, the first covenant becomes obsolete and points to the end of times where heaven and earth are replaced with the New Jerusalem (Revelation 21).  VV8-12 quotes Jeremiah 31:31-34.
• What do we learn from the text about people?: We are all born prone to sin and everyone needs a Savior - Romans 3:23 and 1 John 1:8.   
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Avoid claiming your are without sin and don't need Jesus.  Claim the promises of Jesus and that Jesus is faithful to deliver on all of them.  See Jesus is not only better but better than anything else - He should be Your greatest treasure.  

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My Prayer: Father God, you are an awesome God and King of Kings who is faithful to deliver on all of Your promises.  I am not deserving of how You save and are faithful.  My sin is great and it  continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day. 

For it was indeed fitting that we should have such a high priest, holy, innocent, unstained, separated from sinners, and exalted above the heavens. He has no need, like those high priests, to offer sacrifices daily, first for his own sins and then for those of the people, since he did this once for all when he offered up himself.

Hebrews 7:1-26

For it was indeed fitting that we should have such a high priest, holy, innocent, unstained, separated from sinners, and exalted above the heavens. He has no need, like those high priests, to offer sacrifices daily, first for his own sins and then for those of the people, since he did this once for all when he offered up himself. Hebrews 7:26-27

I continue my study of Hebrews, and in the text today - Hebrews 7:1-26  - the author of Hebrews makes the case that Jesus is a better high priest than previous high priests who were imperfect.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.  

• What do we learn from the text about God?: Jesus is great high priest - similar to the Levitical high priests, but better.  He is guarantor of a "better covenant" (v22) as He is high priest permanently (vv23-24), and is able to always "make intercession" for those who believe (v25). Additionally, Jesus is "holy, innocent, unstained, separated from sinners, and exalted above the heavens[, and] "He has no need, like [the previous] high priests, to offer sacrifices daily" (vv26-27). 
• What do we learn from the text about people?: Those who serve God, including modern day pastors, while held to higher standard than those in the church at large, remain imperfect and should be granted grace.  People should not inappropriately view church leadership - follow the lead of Jesus and worship Him alone. 
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Avoid viewing church leadership inappropriately. Claim the promise that Jesus is always able to intercede on our behalf.  Follow and trust Jesus as great high priest. 

Comment and discuss this post

My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God and King of Kings whose throne is eternal.  I am not deserving of how You save and are able to intercede forever on behalf of those who call on You.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day. 

We have [the hope of God's promises] as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul, a hope that enters into the inner place behind the curtain[.]

Hebrews 6:13-20

We have [the hope of God's promises] as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul, a hope that enters into the inner place behind the curtain[.] Hebrews 6:19

I continue my study of Hebrews, and in the text today - Hebrews 6:13-20  - the author of Hebrews builds on v12 (which shares how believers inherit God's promises) by describing how solid God's promises are - that He is faithful. Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.  

• What do we learn from the text about God?: God is so good and gracious.  He knows that people are prone to be weak in their faith.  So He gave Abraham (see also Genesis 22:16-17) not just a promise but also an oath to reassure him (and his descendants, including all believers) that He is faithful - vv13-18.  It seems as if God is distributing grace in advance by sharing this reassurance.  We know Abraham needed reassurance.  He was not perfect and his faith wavered. Vv17-19 also share how it is "impossible for God to lie," how this gives us "strong encouragement to hold fast to the hope set before us," and how this hope serves as "a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul." 
• What do we learn from the text about people?: People waver in their faith and the only way to not waver is to abide, to walk continuously and closely with God.  God then transforms our hearts, minds, and lives to think and live more in His image (Romans 12:2).  We are then encouraged and hopeful as we rest in the certainty of God's promises (2 Corinthians 1:20), particularly how the victory over sin and death - for every believer - is already assured. 
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?):   

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My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and saves and You are faithful!  Thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of how You love, save and deliver faithfully on all of Your promises.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

Therefore let us leave the elementary doctrine of Christ and go on to maturity, not laying again a foundation of repentance from dead works and of faith toward God, and of instruction about washings, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment.

Hebrews 5:12-6:12

Therefore let us leave the elementary doctrine of Christ and go on to maturity, not laying again a foundation of repentance from dead works and of faith toward God, and of instruction about washings, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment. Hebrews 6:1-2

I continue my study of Hebrews, and in the text today - Hebrews 5:12-6:12 - the author of Hebrews builds on the author's frustration with his audience (as they have become dull or hardened), to share his expectations that the audience be more mature in its relationship with God.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.  

• What do we learn from the text about God?: God works through the process (sanctification) of the spiritual disciplines (reading/study of Word, prayer, corporate worship, service, etc.) to drive spiritual maturity and growth such that we move from new believers to disciples who are more mature in our walk with God such that we become disciple makers - for example, older believers should mentor younger believers (see Titus 2:1-8).  Vv5:12-14 and 6:1-3 focus on an exhortation to submit to this process.    
• What do we learn from the text about people?: Less mature believers are warned of falling away and suffering the fate of the church of Laodicea who was "lukewarm" in its faith (see also Revelation 3:16).  We are expected to abide in Him and bear fruit - see John 15:6, lest we fail to produce a useful crop (6:7) and instead produce "thorns and thistles" (6:8).  When we do abide in Him and produce fruit, God will notice (6:10) as you demonstrate an "earnestness to have the full assurance of hope until the end" (6:11) so that you "inherit the promises" of God (6:12).  
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): We should avoid laziness and sluggishness in our faith (6:12).  We should claim the inheritance of God's promises - including salvation, etc. Follow the example of the many saints - such as Paul - who remained steadfast in their faith.  Grow in Christ.    

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My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and saves!  Thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of such blessings.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day. 

For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.

Hebrews 4:14-5:11

For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.  Hebrews 4:15-16

I continue my study of Hebrews, and in the text today - Hebrews 4:14-5:11 - the author emphasizes how Jesus is a great high priest who is better than one from the Old Testament.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.  

• What do we learn from the text about God?: Jesus is great high priest, and he became great high priest after coming down from Heaven to become the Incarnate Son of God, and then ascending back to Heaven after His death and resurrection to sit at the right hand of God (v14). Because of how Jesus "passed through the heavens" (v14), we can be certain and confident that our confession to Him saves us (v14) from sin and seals us for eternity.  This high priest - Jesus - is unlike the priests from the Old Testament, as He is able to sympathize with us in our temptations as He was tempted in every way but lived a perfect life (v15).  This gives us that confidence to approach Him in prayer when we need help (v16).  Jesus was called by God to be great high priest (5:1, 5). He is also perfect in obedience (5:8-9), and able to save. 
• What do we learn from the text about people?: In contrast to Jesus, Old Testament priests were sinful just as we are and had to offer sacrifices not just for our sin but also for his own (5:1-3).  Just as there was during the time when Hebrews was written, there will also be those who are "dull of hearing" (5:11) and deny Jesus. 
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Avoid becoming dull of hearing and see Jesus as great high priest able to save.  Claim the promise of eternal life - that gives victory over sin and death - through faith in Jesus Christ.  Follow the example of those who confess and believe and be saved.  Approach Christ in confidence.   

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My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who was tempted in all ways but lived a perfect life.  And then You suffered, died, and rose again, giving me - and anyone else who believes - victory over sin and death.  Thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving - the greatest gift of all time. My sin is great and it continue...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. And no creature is hidden from his sight, but all are naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we must give account.

Hebrews 4:12-13

For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. And no creature is hidden from his sight, but all are naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we must give account. Hebrews 4:12-13

I continue my study of Hebrews, and in the text today - Hebrews 4:12-13 - the author pivots from an exhortation to seek God's rest - lest you fall into disobedience (v11) - to a reminder that while we may think we are not disobedient, we should be very careful to both understand our fallen nature and a holy, able and perfect God who sees everything.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.  

• What do we learn from the text about God?: Because the Word is God (John 1:1), we should see God as living and active (v12).  God (and the Word) is also all knowing/omniscient - He is able to discern thoughts and intentions (v12) - and our thoughts and intentions often drive us into sin even though we may feel as if we don't sin (Matthew 5:21-22, 28, and 1 John 3:15). The Word also exposes sin - see Romans 7:7.  He will hold us accountable either in this life but certainly upon death. 
• What do we learn from the text about people?: All sin and all short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23).  We often deceive ourselves that we don't sin (1 John 1:8), because we believe we can hide sin (v13) - yet this is this foolish as God sees it all....including sins of commission and those of omission!
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Avoid any claim to be without sin! Claim the promise that God not only forgives, but He also saves and sanctifies us - giving us victory over sin and death.  Follow the example of Paul (Romans 7) who recognized his struggle with sin and this drove him into the arms of Christ. Repent and be saved!

Comment and discuss this post

My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and saves - thank You Jesus!  I know the need for Jesus and I am grateful for my salvation and the mercies that never cease and are new every morning.  I am not deserving.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

So then, there remains a Sabbath rest for the people of God, for whoever has entered God’s rest has also rested from his works as God did from his. Let us therefore strive to enter that rest, so that no one may fall by the same sort of disobedience.

Hebrews 4:1-11

So then, there remains a Sabbath rest for the people of God, for whoever has entered God’s rest has also rested from his works as God did from his. Let us therefore strive to enter that rest, so that no one may fall by the same sort of disobedience. Hebrews 4:1-11

I continue my study of Hebrews, and in the text today - Hebrews 4:1-11 - the author further dives into the rest that God provides.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.  

• What do we learn from the text about God?: VV1, 9-11: God offers a promise to enter his rest - both a physical rest, but most importantly a spiritual rest - a peace that surpasses understanding, and eternal life.  V7: The offer to claim God's promise to enter His rest is time-bound therefore we should act with urgency to do this "today" or as soon as possible.   
• What do we learn from the text about people?: VV2-3, 5-7: We are reminded that there were some on the journey to the promised land that did not enter God's rest because of unbelief rebelliousness. 
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Avoid not seeing God's hand in the world (creation, etc.) and in your own life - do not harden your heart as you will be lured away from God by temptation, sin, and rebelliousness. Believe and claim the promise of God's rest both today and eternally, a physical and spiritual rest.  Follow the example of Joshua and Caleb who had faith and believe and trust in God's plan (and promise) to lead Israel to the Promised Land.  Trust God. 

Comment and discuss this post

My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and saves - You provide a peace that surpasses understanding and gives eternal life.  Thank You Jesus for this rest!  I am not deserving of such blessings.  My sin is and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.  

Take care, brothers, lest there be in any of you an evil, unbelieving heart, leading you to fall away from the living God. But exhort one another every day, as long as it is called “today,” that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin.

Hebrews 3:7-19

Take care, brothers, lest there be in any of you an evil, unbelieving heart, leading you to fall away from the living God. But exhort one another every day, as long as it is called “today,” that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin. Hebrews 3:12-13

I continue my study of Hebrews, and in the text today - Hebrews 3:7-19 - the author (speaking to Jewish believers who well understood the Old Testament and its biblical heroes such as Moses) seeks for readers to not suffer the same fate as the first generation of Israelites who were rescued by God and escaped Egypt, but were not able to enter the promise land (God's rest) due to their rebelliousness.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.  

• What do we learn from the text about God?: V7 shares how scripture is God-breathed and divinely authored - see also 2 Timothy 3:16.  This verse (and v15) refer to Psalm 95:7-11, where David also warns (see also Hebrews 3:8, 12-13) believers not to miss God's hand and to avoid hardening of hearts and putting God to the test.  We also see God as a living God (v12) - not a distant, unseeing, unaware and uncaring God - if we abide in Him, He lives and works in our hearts (John 15:1-10).  God makes a promise (vv11, 19) - one that we don't to see - that if we don't believe, we cannot enter God's rest - and if you don't this is eternal damnation.   
• What do we learn from the text about people?: When we wander and go astray from God - which we are prone to do - we fail to recognize and see His hand in our lives and then we experience hardness of heart, leading to falling away.  God wired us to live not just in fellowship with Him, but also with other believers and we are encouraged to "exhort one another every day" (v13) to stay close to Him with our spiritual disciplines (study of Word, prayer, etc.). 
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Avoid straying from fellowship with Him lest you develop a hardened heart. Claim the promise that God lives in your heart if you abide in Him and He never stops working for good.  Follow the example of Joshua and Caleb who maintained steadfast faith and saw God's hand and were able to enter God's rest. Hold confidence in Him firm until the end.

Comment and discuss this post

My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and saves!  I am not deserving of how You love, save, and bless through Your Word, the Holy Spirit, the church, and my brothers and sisters in Christ. My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.  

Now Moses was faithful in all God’s house as a servant, to testify to the things that were to be spoken later, but Christ is faithful over God’s house as a son. And we are his house, if indeed we hold fast our confidence and our boasting in our hope.

Hebrews 3:1-6

Now Moses was faithful in all God’s house as a servant, to testify to the things that were to be spoken later, but Christ is faithful over God’s house as a son. And we are his house, if indeed we hold fast our confidence and our boasting in our hope. Hebrews 3:5-6

I continue my study of Hebrews, and in the text today - Hebrews 3:1-6 - to help Jewish believers who well understood the Old Testament and its biblical heroes such as Moses, the author (key theme of entire book) helps readers better understand Jesus and emphasizes the supremacy of Jesus.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.  

• What do we learn from the text about God?: Jesus is faithful (v2) and appointed by the Father (v2).  He is worthy of more glory than Moses (v3).  God built all things (v4). He is God's Son (v6).  
• What do we learn from the text about people?: Believers have a heavenly calling (v1) that we share with Jesus - to whom we can confess sin (v1).  Moses was faithful (vv2, 5), but less so as Jesus is perfectly faithful - we know Moses sinned (including murder, lied).  Moses testified to things that were to come - to the promised land and beyond. Believers are God's house (v6)- the temple - as the Holy Spirit resides inside our hearts.
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): We should avoid seeing anything greater than Jesus - He is Lord of Lords and King of Kings. We should claim the promise of Jesus' faithfulness - all of the promises of God find their yes in Jesus (2 Corinthians 1:20).  We should follow the example of Moses who served faithfully, and of course Jesus!  Trust in Jesus and rest in His promises! 

Comment and discuss this post

My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who created all things and is faithful!  I can rest in Your promises.  Thank You Jesus for saving me and for giving me a peace that surpasses understanding.  I am not deserving of such blessings.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me and help me turn from such sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day. 

Since therefore the children share in flesh and blood, he himself likewise partook of the same things, that through death he might destroy the one who has the power of death, that is, the devil, and deliver all those who through fear of death were subject to lifelong slavery.

Hebrews 2

Since therefore the children share in flesh and blood, he himself likewise partook of the same things, that through death he might destroy the one who has the power of death, that is, the devil, and deliver all those who through fear of death were subject to lifelong slavery. Hebrews 2:14-15

This morning, I start a study of Hebrews, and in the text today - Hebrews 2 - the author shares that we should not neglect salvation, and He goes on to share more about the author of salvation Jesus Christ.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.  

• What do we learn from the text about God?: The gospel is reliable (v2).  The gospel is heard, and seen through works of His hand, including through demonstration of spiritual gifts distributed by Him (vv3-4). God is in control of everything under the heavens and on earth (v8). All things were created by Him and for Him - we exist for His glory (v10). He is perfect (v10).  Christ gives us victory over sin and death (vv14-15).     
• What do we learn from the text about people?: We are easily distracted, and often stray from Him and His Word - therefore we are warned not to stray (v1). We must abide in Him if we seek to continue to bear fruit (John 15:1-10) and to avoid harsh punishment for sin we commit absent our fellowship with Him (v2).  Believers are brothers with each other and with Christ (vv11-12, 17).  Because Jesus was tempted in every way, He can help us with our temptations (v18). 
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): We must avoid straying/drifting too far from Him - maintain daily fellowship with Him in the Word and in prayer.  Claim and rest in the promise that He has already defeated sin and death and is able to help us in our struggles with the flesh.  Follow the example of Jesus who submitted to the will of the Father in the service of all. Abide and trust in Him.  

Comment and discuss this post

My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and saves!  I am not deserving of such blessings!  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power. After making purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, having become as much superior to angels as the name he has inherited is more excellent than theirs.

Hebrews 1

He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power. After making purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, having become as much superior to angels as the name he has inherited is more excellent than theirs. Hebrews 1:3-4

This morning, I start a study of Hebrews, and in the text today - Hebrews 1:1-14, the author (unknown) describes Jesus and compares Him to Old Testament prophets and angels.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.  

• What do we learn from the text about God?:  The Father speaks to us through the Son, who is "heir of all things, and through whom also he created the world" (vv1-2).  "He is [also] the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power" (v3).  Jesus purifies of sins (v3), sits at the right hand of God (v3), and is superior to angels (vv4-7). Jesus' throne is permanent (v8), upright (v8), and He loves righteousness and hates wickedness (v9).  The Father is pleased with the Son (v9). Although the heavens and earth will go away, Jesus' and His throne are eternal and will never change (vv11-12). Nothing - no angel or other being - compares to Jesus (vv13-14).   
• What do we learn from the text about people?: God reveals Himself and speaks to us - how incredible!  Our lives are in His hands - v3. 
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Avoid seeing anyone but Jesus as God - nothing compares.  Claim the promise that we share in the inheritance of Christ (see also Romans 8:17 and Ephesians 1:18). Follow the example of the angels who were "sent out to serve for the sake of those who are to inherit salvation" (v14).  See Jesus as superior to any other being - He is God and King of Kings.  

Comment and discuss this post

My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and saves.  You and Your Kingdom are eternal and I can rest on Your Promises because You are also faithful.  Thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of such blessings.  My sin is great and it continues...please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

The LORD passed before him and proclaimed, “The LORD, the LORD, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness, keeping steadfast love for thousands,forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, but who will by no means clear the guilty, visiting the iniquity of the fathers on the children and the children’s children, to the third and the fourth generation.”

Exodus 32-34

The LORD passed before him and proclaimed, “The LORD, the LORD, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness, keeping steadfast love for thousands,forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, but who will by no means clear the guilty, visiting the iniquity of the fathers on the children and the children’s children, to the third and the fourth generation.” Exodus 34:6-7

I have completed my study of Numbers, but before I move on to my next study (TBD), I pause for today to review text covered today in church - Exodus 32-34 - including for our small group time.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.  

• What do we learn from the text about God?: God is a jealous God as He is jealous for Himself when the people of Israel do not follow His commandments, particularly those commandments to love Him and not to put other gods before Him. God burns with anger (32:7-10) when Israel creates a golden calf (32:1-6) as they await Moses to come down from the top of Mount Sinai.  In Exodus 33, God shares (33:3) that He will not be with the people as they continue in their journey to the Promised Land and the people mourn.  God is "merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness (34:6), and He renews the covenant He made with Israel (34:10-27) - an act of incredible grace and mercy as Israel does not get what they deserve and they do get what they don't deserve. 
• What do we learn from the text about people?: Moses intercedes (32:11-13, 32:31-32) on behalf of the people - and God relents (v14). In 32:15-35, Moses punishes the people and God follows with a plague. After God shares that He will not be with the people as they continue in their journey to the Promised Land, Moses once again intercedes on behalf of Israel - 33:12. Moses also asks the Lord to show Himself and His glory, and to see Him face to face but God will not allow Moses to see His face - 33:23.  Moses goes back up to the top of Mount Sinai in Exodus 34, recreates the tablets with the Ten Commandments and intercedes once more on behalf of the people - 34:9. After Moses came down from Mount Sinai it was clear that He spoke with God because his face was radiant and shone from His glory (34:29-35). 
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Avoid taking matters into Your own hands when you believe that God is not hearing you or not responding - He is always at work.  Claim the promise that God is faithful, but that if you seek Him with all of your heart, you will find Him (Jeremiah 29:13).  Follow the example of Moses who served God faithfully and drew near to Him. Trust God that He is faithful (2 Corinthians 1:20).

Comment and discuss this post

My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and saves!  You are slow to anger, abounding in love, and rich in mercies - thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of how You save and bless.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

And Moses commanded the people of Israel according to the word of the LORD, saying, “The tribe of the people of Joseph is right.”

Numbers 36

And Moses commanded the people of Israel according to the word of the LORD, saying, “The tribe of the people of Joseph is right.” Numbers 36:5

I return to my study of Numbers, and in the text today - Numbers 36 - based on a petition from the tribe of Joseph, we see the Lord modify commands about how the daughters of Zelophehad are to receive a land inheritance in the Promised Land.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.  

• What do we learn from the text about God?:  Numbers 27:1-11 established a statute for Israel to accommodate how female heirs were to participate in their inheritance if the father dies and he has no sons.  Here, in the text today, the tribe of Joseph petitions Moses (and the Lord) with the claim that female heirs that marry into another tribe essentially have a double portion of an inheritance because they participate in both the inheritance from their father as well as from their husband (a son from another tribe) - with the claim that this is not just.  In vv5-9 God hears the cries and petitions of Joseph's tribe, responds, and He is a just God and He modifies his guidance to share that female heirs can only marry within their tribe.    
• What do we learn from the text about people?: Such circumstances require prayer and wisdom from God and Moses sought such wisdom per v5 where the text shares that "Moses commanded the people of Israel according to the word of the LORD."  We also see obedience on the part of the daughters of Zelophehad in v10.  Compromise is often the right thing to do - particularly when God commands it.  The daughters of Zelophehad lost the privilege to marry outside their tribe but the people of Israel (including the daughters of Zelophehad) gained a sense of unity through shared fairness and provision.   
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Avoid leaning on your own understanding but on that of God (see also Proverbs 3:5-6).  Claim the promise that God hears our cries/prayers/petitions, responds, and is always at work for good. Follow the example of Moses who did as God commands.  Trust and abide in Him and He will guide and direct your steps.  

Comment and discuss this post

My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and saves!  Your Word is perfect and blesses in all ways!  Thank You Jesus for giving us Your Word and for saving.  I am not deserving.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

For if the readiness is there, it is acceptable according to what a person has, not according to what he does not have. For I do not mean that others should be eased and you burdened, but that as a matter of fairness your abundance at the present time should supply their need, so that their abundance may supply your need, that there may be fairness. As it is written, “Whoever gathered much had nothing left over, and whoever gathered little had no lack.”

 Proverbs 13:22, 22:7; Romans 12:18; 2 Corinthians 8:12-13; and 1 Timothy 5:8

For if the readiness is there, it is acceptable according to what a person has, not according to what he does not have. For I do not mean that others should be eased and you burdened, but that as a matter of fairness your abundance at the present time should supply their need, so that their abundance may supply your need, that there may be fairness. As it is written, “Whoever gathered much had nothing left over, and whoever gathered little had no lack.” 2 Corinthians 8:12-15

I continue a pause of my study of Numbers to focus on text that will be discussed Friday morning with my men's small group.  The text today is focused on the second of two sets of five texts that will be used to derive Godly wisdom for a personal situation faced by one of my brothers in Christ. Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.  

• What do learn from the text about God?: God seeks for us to care for and provide for our families - yet we should be careful about wrongly interpreting Proverbs 13:22.  Most importantly is that we pass on to our children a love of God (see also this post from John Piper on DesiringGod.com).  We should also be careful about how we use money as an instrument to exercise selfish or evil intent against those to whom we lend money (Proverbs 22:7) - we are to be good stewards of our financial resources and use them for His will.  The broader text surrounding Romans 12:18 is less about financial dealings then it is about how we generally interact with others, including our brothers and sisters in Christ, those who persecute us, and the lowly. 2 Corinthians 8:12-13 does concern how we give financially to others but it's important to also read surrounding text including vv14-15 where fairness is emphasized and corresponding text in Exodus 16:18 where some view this that we should trust God in how He provides and not concerns ourselves with gathering too much for ourselves.  1 Timothy 5:8 does instruct us about righteous behavior about providing for our family, and a reading of the surrounding text focuses on how we are to care for our brothers and sisters in Christ within the church - particularly widows.   
• What do we learn from the text about people?: Money is a difficult matter for nearly everyone so there is much scripture from which we can draw....the challenge is for us to rightly view this scripture and prayer for wisdom is key. 
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): God is clear that we are not to use our financial resources selfishly nor for evil intent.  We are not to worry about finances as we should claim the promise that God provides.  Follow the example of Paul who was content regardless of need - Philippians 4:11-12.  Trust God and be a good steward of what He provides in our care. 

Comment and discuss this post

My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and saves!  I am not deserving of how You love, save, provide, etc.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.   Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day. 

Whoever brings blessing will be enriched, and one who waters will himself be watered.

 Proverbs 11:25, Galatians 6:2, 6:10, Matthew 25:35-40, and 1 John 3:17-18

Whoever brings blessing will be enriched, and one who waters will himself be watered. Proverbs 11:25 

I pause my study of Numbers to focus on text that will be discussed Friday morning with my men's small group.  This text is focused on two sets of five texts that will be used to derive Godly wisdom for a personal situation faced by one of my brothers in Christ. Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.  

• What do we learn from the text about God?: God does want us to be a light like He is - He seeks for us to bless and do good so that others can see Jesus in us.  We are encouraged especially in Galatians 6:10 to do good "to those who are of the household of faith."  God seeks for us to build up the church as unity and strength of the church is important - this is amplified in 1 John 3:17-18 as John exhorts us to love our brothers and sisters in Christ.  God does not like when we see someone in great need - He wants us to attend to the needs who need it the most - the "least of these" (Matthew 25:35-40).      
• What do we learn from the text about people?:  My brother in Christ is struggling with a situation where He is not sure whether to give outside his family or to give within his family.  Both are good and this is indeed a struggle worthy of giving to God to seek His wisdom!
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Avoid NOT being a light.  We should also avoid NOT abiding in God and His Word which is the source of all truth and wisdom.  We should claim the promise (2 Timothy 3:16-17) that all scripture is "is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work."  We should follow the example of Jesus who gave everything that believers could have life to the full now and for eternity. Do good and be a light.  

Comment and discuss this post

My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and saves.  Thank You Jesus for saving me and for also giving me Your Word that I might fellowship with You.  I am not deserving of such blessings.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

For [the manslayer] must remain in his city of refuge until the death of the high priest, but after the death of the high priest the manslayer may return to the land of his possession.

Numbers 35:9-34

For [the manslayer] must remain in his city of refuge until the death of the high priest, but after the death of the high priest the manslayer may return to the land of his possession. Numbers 35:28

I continue my study of Numbers, and in the text today - Numbers 35:9-34 - God spoke to Moses and gave him commands to pass on to the people to create cities of refuge for those who kill without intent.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.  

• What do we learn from the text about God?: God looks at the heart - at one's intent (v11).  See also 1 Samuel 13:14 and 16:7 where the LORD speaks to Samuel when he is searching among Jesse's sons to anoint a new king to replace Solomon.  God exhorts Samuel to examine David's heart.  Our heart condition matters.  Our heart condition works both ways, including sins of omission - we may not have had intent but we sin nonetheless - as this is our sinful nature since the Fall (Genesis 3).  Paul describes this spiritual struggle in Romans 7:15-20.  For the manslayer who has safety in a city of refuge, note how the manslayer must remain within the boundaries of the city of refuge - v28.  This seems to be an encouragement to abide in God, to remain in fellowship with Him because He is our refuge - see also Psalm 9:9-10, 46:1, 91:1–2.  God is also fair - as He allows for deliberate judgement, including witness corroboration (vv12, 30).  
• What do we learn from the text about people?: We are inclined to judge and seek vengeance on our own terms - yet God alone is the judge and we can rest in how all will be held accountable for their life and deeds. God knows this hence he created cities of refuge.  
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Avoid judgement and vengeance - this is for God.  Claim and rest in the promise that on Judgement Day all will be held accountable for their lives and deeds and nothing is hidden.  Follow the example of Paul who recognized his internal spiritual struggle to do good, and sought to remain in Him for Him to live in His heart.  Abide in Him and seek God as your refuge. 

Comment and discuss this post

My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who saves and who is my refuge during times of trouble.  Thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of who You save and protect.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me turn from and overcome such sin.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

And as for the cities that you shall give from the possession of the people of Israel, from the larger tribes you shall take many, and from the smaller tribes you shall take few; each, in proportion to the inheritance that it inherits, shall give of its cities to the Levites.

Numbers 35:1-8

And as for the cities that you shall give from the possession of the people of Israel, from the larger tribes you shall take many, and from the smaller tribes you shall take few; each, in proportion to the inheritance that it inherits, shall give of its cities to the Levites. Numbers 35:8

I continue my study of Numbers, and in the text today - Numbers 35:1-8 - God gives Moses commands to the people to give the Levites a portion of their inheritance of land to live and for their animals to pasture.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.  

• What do we learn from the text about God?: God gave the Levites duties to care for the tabernacle and in the priesthood.  He also sought for the other tribes to provide a means of living for the Levites.  Like the other tribes, the land given to the Levites was to be measured out with strict boundaries, consistent with how the other tribes were to live within the borders defined by God (see post yesterday).  The Levites were to be content with how God provides.  Six of the forty-eight cities given to the Levites were to serve as refuge for those pending trial - manslayer (someone who kills without intent) - see both v6 and v11. God has a plan for what He provides and we are to be stewards of what He provides for His purpose. The other tribes should not see their land as their own but as God's and the same as the Levites.  See also Luke 12:48 where Jesus shares a parable to emphasize that "him to whom they entrusted much, they will demand the more."  God expects us to see Him as the owner and for us to be the caretakers - this includes time, talent, and treasure.  And we should be cheerful with regard to how we hold and give - 2 Corinthians 9:7.
• What do we learn from the text about people?: There are many examples in scripture where people are not good stewards of what God provides nor cheerful givers - Ananias and Sapphira from Acts 5:1-11 is one of the most striking examples.  On the other hand, the poor widow from Mark 12:41-44 and Luke 21:1-4 serves as a positive example.  
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Avoid holding onto what God provides for our own purpose and desires.  Claim the promise that every good and perfect gift is from Him and that He works in all things for good. Follow the example of the poor widow and give sacrificially.  Trust Him that His plan and design is perfect and that He provides. 

Comment and discuss this post

My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and saves!  I am not deserving of how You love and save, provide and pour out blessings daily.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

The LORD spoke to Moses, saying, "Command the people of Israel, and say to them, When you enter the land of Canaan (this is the land that shall fall to you for an inheritance, the land of Canaan as defined by its borders)[.]"

Numbers 34

The LORD spoke to Moses, saying, "Command the people of Israel, and say to them, When you enter the land of Canaan (this is the land that shall fall to you for an inheritance, the land of Canaan as defined by its borders)[.]" Numbers 34:1-2

I continue my study of Numbers, and in the text today - Numbers 34 - God gives Moses and the people of Israel commands for how to divide the Promised Land by tribe and to give the land borders in which they must remain.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.  See also this map. 

• What do we learn from the text about God?: God is faithful - He promised this land to Abraham, Issac, and Jacob, He delivered and rescued God's people from Egypt, brought them to this land and gave it to them.  God wants us to be satisfied with what He gives us.  He draws specific boundaries and borders for the Promised Land and the people are to trust Him that the land is enough - the people are to learn how to be content with what God provides.  We know the land is good because Joshua and Caleb, when they were part of the group that scouted the land from the wilderness, described it as "exceedingly good" and "flowing with milk and honey" (Numbers 14:7-8).  At the same time, we know from the arc of redemptive history that Israel is surrounded by neighbors that are hostile to her - God knows this and He seeks for Israel to be secure and He will be their refuge.   
• What do we learn from the text about people?: While the scripture here is silent on this in the text, we know that the people of Israel will consistently sin, including idolatry, etc.  This is the nature of all humanity since the Fall in Genesis 3.  With Jesus, all of God's promises find their yes in Him (2 Corinthians 1:20).  
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Avoid not seeing God as enough and then acting out of fear and/or covetousness. Claim the promise that God will never leave or forsake us, we can never be separated from His love, that He provides for all of our needs - we can trust in Him and see Him as faithful.  He is also our refuge.  Follow the example of Joshua who saw the Lord is with Israel.  Love God, abide in and follow Him.  

Comment and discuss this post

My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and saves.  Thank You Jesus for Your faithfulness, how You provide, and how You never leave or forsake us - among the many blessings You pour out daily for those who love and trust You.  I am not deserving of how You love and save.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

But if you do not drive out the inhabitants of the land from before you, then those of them whom you let remain shall be as barbs in your eyes and thorns in your sides, and they shall trouble you in the land where you dwell. And I will do to you as I thought to do to them.”

 Numbers 33

But if you do not drive out the inhabitants of the land from before you, then those of them whom you let remain shall be as barbs in your eyes and thorns in your sides, and they shall trouble you in the land where you dwell. And I will do to you as I thought to do to them.” Numbers 33:55-56

I continue my study of Numbers, and in the text today - Numbers 33 - we retrace the path Israel took as  God led the people out of Egypt on their journey towards the Promised Land, and God prepares the people to enter the Promised Land.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.

• What do we learn from the text about God?: God commands Moses to write down Israel's path towards the Promised Land (v2) - these are the second through the fifth book of the Bible. We should remember and study this journey - Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy, and Joshua.  Upon reaching the boundary of the Promised Land - at the Jordan River - God gave Moses and the people explicit instructions (vv50-56) to destroy both the inhabitants and the idols in the land.  He warns the people that if they don't "[those inhabitants and their idols] shall be as barbs in your eyes and thorns in your sides, and they shall trouble you in the land where you dwell."  Scripture has limited mention of "thorn" but in context it has both negative and positive associations.  Thorns typically "choke" out more desired growth (negative).  At the same time, Paul is given this same "thorn" in his flesh (2 Corinthians 12:7) "to keep [him] from becoming conceited" (positive).  God is warning the people that the inhabitants of the Promised Land will entice and lure the people into idolatry, sin and away from Him - just as it has occurred in Israel's history.  Idolatry and sin separates us from Him and "troubles" and hurts us.  We must do as God commands.  Otherwise, as v56 shares God will do to us "as [He] thought to do to [those whom God sought to drive out from the land]."  He will drive us out from fellowship and union with Him - not a good thing.       
• What do we learn from the text about people?: People very often are partially obedient - not fully obedient (just as God commanded).  Hence God warns the people to avoid partial obedience because He knows partial obedience means a lack of submission and surrender to God.  This leaves a gap in our relationship with Him and this will not end well - we should heed the warning from Matthew 7:21-23 and Revelation 3:15–16 regarding partial obedience and moderation. In 2 Corinthians 12:7, Paul was given a thorn in his flesh to remind him that he was fully dependent on God - he should not believe that his life circumstances and experience were anything but God's hand.   
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Avoid moderation (lukewarm) or partial obedience in your journey with God.  Claim the promise that God desires to bring you enter His rest but this requires complete dependence and surrender to Him.  Follow the example of Paul who saw that he had a thorn in his flesh and relied fully on Him.  Abide in Him and follow God completely.     

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My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and saves!  I am not deserving of such blessings.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his saints.

 Psalm 116:12-19

Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his saints. Psalm 116:15

I pause my study of Numbers to take a short detour to accommodate my Friday morning men's Bible study where this AM we focused on Psalm 116:12-19.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.

• What do we learn from the text about God?: In vv1-11, the unidentified psalmist praises God for many of His attributes: how He hears our cries, protects and provides refuge during times of struggle, He is gracious, righteous, and merciful, He preserves and saves, He offers rest, He provides bountifully, and how He saves - eternally.  V15 and the preceding v13 require careful thought and upon reflection my read is that God sees us as precious - even in death - as this points to the coming Messiah Jesus Christ who is saving a place for us in Heaven (see John 14:2-3).   
• What do we learn from the text about people?: For those that believe in Him and know the attributes described by the psalmist, it is a natural response to worship and praise Him.  We will not only praise Him, we will do so publicly (vv14, 18, 19).  We will serve Him (v16).  We will thank Him and call on Him to be in fellowship with Him (v17). 
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Claim the promise that God is good and He saves!  Follow the example of the psalmist who praises and worships His name.  Proclaim God's great name publicly for all the world to hear!  

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My Prayer: Father God, You ARE an awesome God, worthy of all praise, honor and glory.  You save!  Thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of such blessings.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

For if you turn away from following him, he will again abandon them in the wilderness, and you will destroy all this people.

 Numbers 32

For if you turn away from following him, he will again abandon them in the wilderness, and you will destroy all this people. Numbers 32:15

I continue my study of Numbers, and in the text today - Numbers 32 - where the people of Reuben and Gad petition Moses to occupy land east of the Jordan River, an alternative to entering the Promised Land.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.

• What do we learn from the text about God?: God often turns us over to our earthly desires and sin as a means to discipline or chasten His people (see also Romans 1:24-28, Psalm 81:11-12, Acts 7:42).  God's will was to bring all of His people out of Egypt and into the Promised Land, and He would lead the people in battle to overcome those who inhabited the land.  In the text today, the people of Reuben and Gad propose an alternative to remain east of the Promised Land because they see that this land was good for their livestock - vv1,4.  Moses, speaking on behalf of God, initially rebukes - see vv6-15 - the people of Reuben and Gad, but they share in vv16-19 that they will not abandon the mission to work with the other tribes of Israel to conquer the Promised Land, and Moses relents to the request of the people of Reuben and Gad - v33.    
• What do we learn from the text about people?: Very often we, just as the people of Reuben and Gad did, seek to bend God's will in our direction, failing to completely trust and surrender to His plan. Although God, through Moses, allowed for this with the people of Reuben and Gad, we should remind ourselves that God seeks complete dependence and obedience to His will - see also this search in scripture for the string "just as the LORD commanded."  Jesus did not propose anything to the Father short of a brutal beating and crucifixion...He simply said in Luke 22:42 "not my will, but yours, be done."
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Avoid seeking to bend God's direction and will to suit your own desires and agenda.  Claim the promise that God's will is "good and acceptable and perfect" (Romans 12:2) and that obedience to Him is not burdensome (1 John 5:3).  Follow the example of Jesus and follow the Father's will completely. Abide in, trust, follow Him.   

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My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and saves!  Thank You Jesus. I am not deserving of such blessings.  My sin is great and I know my desires and sin often pull me away from You.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me turn from and overcome such sin and turn towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

The LORD spoke to Moses, saying, "Avenge the people of Israel on the Midianites."

 Numbers 28-31

The LORD spoke to Moses, saying, "Avenge the people of Israel on the Midianites." Numbers  31:1-2

I continue my study of Numbers, and in the text today - Numbers 28-31 - where, given the wide range of text, we see God's instructions to Moses and the people for daily, Sabbath, monthly Passover, feast offerings, instructions for how to handle vows, and instructions to Moses and the people to take vengeance on Midian.  The focus of my time this morning is God's vengeance on Midian.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.

• What do we learn from the text about God?: God seeks for Israel (and all believers) to avoid sinful influences as He is jealous for Himself and His glory.  Numbers 25 describes how Israel "whore[d] with the daughters of Moab" and Midian, and yoked themselves to the pagan god Baal (Numbers 25:1-6).  God punished those who allowed themselves to be lured away from God into sin - see also Numbers 25:7-8.  In Numbers 25:16-18, we see how God instructed Moses and the people to harass and strike down Midian for how they "beguiled" Israel.  In chapter 31, we see God take His vengeance.  Once again, when God speaks that something will be done, we can be assured that it will be done as He is faithful.     
• What do we learn from the text about people?: When we see evil and sin in the world, many are tempted to take vengeance and punishment into their own hands.  God is clear that we are not to do this as vengeance is His alone - see Deuteronomy 32:35, Romans 12:17-19.  God will hold all - believers and non-believers alike - accountable for their deeds and sin.  In Romans specifically, God's Word shares how we are to live "peaceably" with others, including with those who hurt and persecute us - see also Matthew 5:43-48. 
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Avoid taking vengeance on others - this belongs to the LORD.  Claim the promise that all are held accountable for their deeds upon judgement day and rest in this promise. Follow the example of Jesus who loves and prays for everyone including those who betray Him such as Peter.  Love and pray for those who persecute you.  

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My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and saves!  Thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of such love.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.   Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin.  Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others.  Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.

Moses spoke to the LORD, saying, “Let the LORD, the God of the spirits of all flesh, appoint a man over the congregation who shall go out before them and come in before them, who shall lead them out and bring them in, that the congregation of the LORD may not be as sheep that have no shepherd.”

 Numbers 26-27

Moses spoke to the LORD, saying, “Let the LORD, the God of the spirits of all flesh, appoint a man over the congregation who shall go out before them and come in before them, who shall lead them out and bring them in, that the congregation of the LORD may not be as sheep that have no shepherd.” Numbers 27:15-17

I continue my study of Numbers, and in the text today - Numbers 26-27 - God prepares Israel to enter the Promised Land as He instructs Moses to take a census, and He commissions Joshua to be the new leader of the people. Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.

• What do we learn from the text about God?: God is faithful - back in Numbers 14:28-35, God promised to punish the entire first generation of Israel who did not trust God or rebelled against Him - the punishment will be that they not enter the Promised Land.  Here in the text today, this promise is kept - see Numbers 26:63-65.  This may not be the faithfulness one seeks - a promise to condemn of punish - but it is a promise nonetheless and we should be mindful that if God shares that man will be punished or condemned, this is not an idle threat - it is a promise.  God responds to   the pleas (prayers) of His people.  In Numbers 27:1-11, we see the plight of the daughters of Zelophehad, who are not going to get an inheritance of land in the Promised Land, yet the daughters took their plea to Moses who interceded on their behalf.  God answers their prayer and He seeks for all believers to bring their cares and concerns to Him - see also 1 Peter 5:7.  God hears our cries and responds to us - the response may not be what we seek, but He does respond and He does provide, comfort, encourage, etc. God's promise (Numbers 20:12) that Moses will not enter the Promised Land is also fulfilled here - Numbers 27:13-14.  God chooses and prepares Joshua to lead the people into the Promised Land.         
• What do we learn from the text about people?:  Moses does not quarrel with God about his punishment - that he will not enter the promised land.  His concern once again is for the people - what an incredible response of humility.  Moses surrenders his life to God's will.   
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Claim the promise that God is faithful in all things - 2 Corinthians 1:20.  Follow the example of Moses, who in humility and obedience, surrender to the will of God and trusted Him.     

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My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and saves.  Thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of how You love and save.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You.  Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me.  Help me grow in my faith.  Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength.  Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo.  Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior.  Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.