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.

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 the LORD said to Moses, “Do not fear him, for I have given [Og, king of Bashan] into your hand, and all his people, and his land. And you shall do to him as you did to Sihon king of the Amorites, who lived at Heshbon.” So they defeated him and his sons and all his people, until he had no survivor left. And they possessed his land.

Numbers 21:21-35

But the LORD said to Moses, “Do not fear him, for I have given [Og, king of Bashan] into your hand, and all his people, and his land. And you shall do to him as you did to Sihon king of the Amorites, who lived at Heshbon.” So they defeated him and his sons and all his people, until he had no survivor left. And they possessed his land. Numbers 21:34-35

I continue my study of Numbers, and in the text today - Numbers 21:21-35 - God leads Israel into battle, as they defeat the armies of King Sihon and Og.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.

• What do we learn from the text about God?: God is faithful (going all the way back to Genesis 15:18-21).  He rescued Israel from bondage in Egypt and directed Israel from the wilderness to the Promised Land and used Joshua and Caleb (see Numbers 14:6-9) to give confidence to the people that they should not fear the existing inhabitants - God is with them.  The text is once again explicit sharing how God spoke to Moses (and Israel) and told them not to fear Sihon, Og, and their armies.  God is more powerful than any earthly power and if it is His will to destroy them - He will.  For believers, Ephesians 6:12 clarifies how we are not [only] fighting against "flesh and blood, but against but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places."  We are directed to put on the "whole armor of God," which includes scripture, the Holy Spirit, etc.  Ultimately, we can take comfort knowing that He is saving a place for us in Heaven and the victory over sin and death is already won and our salvation is assured.          
• What do we learn from the text about people?: Since the Fall (Genesis 3), when sin entered the world, we experience violence, fear, sickness, death, etc.  We should not fear as Israel did in Numbers 14:10 when they sought to stone Joshua and Caleb for their confidence in the LORD.  We should bring our cares and concerns to the LORD (1 Peter 5:7).     
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Do not fear. Claim the promise that victory over sin and death is already won and salvation assured.  Follow the example of Joshua and Caleb who saw how God is with them and were confident.  Trust in God, and rest in how He is our strength and refuge.

Comment and discuss this post

My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and saves, and You are my strength and refuge!  Thank You Jesus!  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.

“The land, which we passed through to spy it out, is an exceedingly good land. If the LORD delights in us, he will bring us into this land and give it to us, a land that flows with milk and honey. Only do not rebel against the LORD. And do not fear the people of the land, for they are bread for us. Their protection is removed from them, and the LORD is with us; do not fear them.”

Numbers 14:1-12

“The land, which we passed through to spy it out, is an exceedingly good land. If the LORD delights in us, he will bring us into this land and give it to us, a land that flows with milk and honey. Only do not rebel against the LORD. And do not fear the people of the land, for they are bread for us. Their protection is removed from them, and the LORD is with us; do not fear them.” Numbers 14:7-9

I continue my study of Numbers, and in the text today - Numbers 14:1-12 - we see the people of Israel rebel against God and His wishes to enter the promised land, despite how it is occupied and fortified.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.

• What do we learn from the text about God?: God is full of righteous anger in vv11-12 as the people grumble and rebel against his desire to take the promised land God has given the people.  
• What do we learn from the text about people?: The people of Israel cry, weep, and grumble once again against Moses and Aaron (and God) - vv1-4.  They are in fear because of the reports of the other spies who have reported back that although the promised land "flows with milk and honey" and fruit, the inhabitants are strong and their cities fortified (vv13:27-29).  Clearly Moses and Aaron are frustrated and desperate - seeking to calm the people from their fear.  Two of the spies appointed by God - Joshua and Caleb - exhort the people (once again) to be of good courage and to not fear as "the Lord is with us" (v9).  As the people moved to stone Joshua and Caleb - God steps in (vv11-12).   
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Avoid grumbling, complaining and rebelling against God (including His appointed leaders).  Claim the promise that if God is with/for us, who can be against us (Romans 8:31). Follow the example of Caleb and Joshua were of good courage.  Trust God.  

Comment and discuss this post

My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who has done everything for me - giving Your life - so that I can have life to the full now and for eternity.  Thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of such love and blessing.  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.

I do not ask that you take them out of the world, but that you keep them from the evil one. They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth. As you sent me into the world, so I have sent them into the world.

 John 17:6-19

I do not ask that you take them out of the world, but that you keep them from the evil one. They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth. As you sent me into the world, so I have sent them into the world. John 17:15-18

I continue my study of John and today I focus on John 17:6-19, where Jesus continues with the High Priestly Prayer and the text for today, Jesus prays for the disciples.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method. 

• What do we learn from the text about God?: God loves the disciples, as He loves all those who have been adopted into His family through faith, and here we see Jesus praying for the disciples.  Jesus prays for the disciples to be "[kept] in [the Father's] name" (v11), "that they may be one, even as [He and the Father] are one" (v11), "that they may have joy fulfilled in themselves" (v13), that "[the Father] keep them from the evil one" (v15), and that "they also may be sanctified in truth" (vv17,19).  These themes are critical.  Jesus emphasizes and prays for them to abide in Him (John 15:1-17), for unity among the disciples and believers, joy (in service of God and others, regardless of circumstances, including persecution - 1 Thessalonians 5:8, James 1:2-4), to be protected from Satan, and to submit to God's pruning and sanctification (John 15) as He makes us more like Him.  
• What do we learn from the text about people?: Believers are in the world, but not of the world (vv11,14,16).  As citizens of Heaven and God's Kingdom, our allegiance is first and foremost to Him.  We are also ambassadors sent by Him into the world (v18) to seek and save the lost just as He did.   
• 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 being a friend of the world and falling prey to the dark forces of this world.  Claim the promise that we belong to Jesus (v6) and we can never be separated from His love.  Follow the example of Jesus to abide in the Word and Him just as He followed the will of the Father and fulfilled scripture.  Love God, love others, and seek and save the lost.  

Comment and discuss this post

My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and saves - You give me Your Word and arm me to have refuge from the evil one and You sanctify me - 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.

So the chief priests made plans to put Lazarus to death as well, because on account of him many of the Jews were going away and believing in Jesus.

 John 12:9-12

So the chief priests made plans to put Lazarus to death as well, because on account of him many of the Jews were going away and believing in Jesus. John 12:10-11

I continue my study of John and today I focus on John 12:9-12, where we see efforts to arrest and kill Jesus begin to reach a fever pitch.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method. 

• What do we learn from the text about God?: The text describes pure evil as the chief priests not only sought to kill Jesus, but Lazarus as well.  The crime committed by Lazarus, in the eyes of the chief priests, was that he was raised from the dead by Jesus and instantly became a powerful witness for others to believe in Jesus.  We need constant reminders that sin exists in the world since the Fall (Genesis 3) and we need to be on guard (1 Peter 5:8, Ephesians 6:10-18).  God not only allowed this, but this is part of a part of His perfect plan to bring as many to Himself for salvation as possible - we all sin and need a savior and Jesus Christ is that Savior.     
• What do we learn from the text about people?: Persecution of faith occurs in many forms and while here in the U.S. we don't face the same threat of physical harm as believers in other parts of the world do, we do face scorn and persecution.  Believers need to stand firm in the faith.          
• 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 being passive with your faith.  Claim the promise that, yes we can face persecution, but either in this world or for eternity God is always with us and He will be our refuge.  Boldly proclaim the gospel and your faith - follow the example of Jesus who did not back down.  

Comment and discuss this post

My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves, protects, and saves.  I am not deserving of my salvation nor any of the blessings that You pour out for me.  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 Peter remembered how Jesus had said to him, “Before the rooster crows twice, you will deny me three times.” And he broke down and wept.

Mark 14:53-72

And Peter remembered how Jesus had said to him, “Before the rooster crows twice, you will deny me three times.” And he broke down and wept. Mark 14:72

I continue my study of Mark, leaning on the Christ-Centered Exposition commentary series volume for Mark.  Today, my focus is per the commentary, the second division of the text from Mark 14:53-72 - vv66-72.  

• Using the Sword Bible Study Method focusing just on the text for today - vv66-72: (1) God in the text: Jesus is secondary in this text; (2) people in the text: Peter denies Jesus three times just as Jesus said would happen in vv26-30; Peter invokes a curse upon himself in v71 in an apparent reference to breaking a command found in Leviticus 5:4-6; as Peter remembers Jesus' words prophesying this, Peter weeps (v72); the servant girl of the high priest and others correctly identify Peter as "with the Nazerene (v67), of them (v69), and of them...a Galilean (v70); (3) Sins to avoid, promises to claim, examples to follow, and commands to obey: believers should not deny Jesus nor swear an oath or bear false witness as Peter did - we should stand firm in our faith and belief in Jesus and trust that He is with us and will strengthen us and protect us (either physically or spiritually in the case of death).  

Excerpts from the commentary's second (of two) division: 

• The title of the first division is "Peter Models the Unfaithful Witness as to Who He Is for."
• "Peter failed the Lord three times in the garden of Gethsemane (vv37-42). Now he fails Him three times in the courtyard of the high priest. Initially, he failed Him by sleeping when he should have been praying. Now he fails Him by denying Him when he should have confessed Him. The rock named Peter crumbles and is pulverized under the pressure."
• "At the very moment he was voicing his third denial, Jesus “turned and looked at Peter” (Luke 22:61)."
• Peter's repentance is not specifically mentioned in text but this commentary and John Piper imply a repentance and restoration via Peter's tears (see also Luke 22:62), and Jesus' interactions with Peter after Jesus' resurrection (John 21:15-19); see John Piper's post on this at DesiringGod.com.  
• "Peter would repent, turn to Christ for forgiveness, and receive a full pardon. By contrast Judas would only feel regret, run to the religious leaders to try to make amends, and go out and hang himself (Matthew 27:5). If only he had turned again to the Lord Jesus like Peter. Though his sin was great, he would have discovered that God’s grace was even greater."

Comment and discuss this post. 

My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and who saves!  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.

Your own eyes shall see this, and you shall say, “Great is the LORD beyond the border of Israel!”

Malachi 1:2-5

Your own eyes shall see this, and you shall say, “Great is the LORD beyond the border of Israel!” Malachi 1:5

I return to my study of the last four books of the OT using the Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary volume for this book, moving on to Malachi, the last book of the Old Testament.  Today, I complete a commentary-assisted review of Malachi 1:2-5 by reading the text accompanied by the commentary's introduction to this book, as well as commentary specifically for 1:2-5 - which has three divisions.  

In the introduction, the commentary shares the following excerpts:

• "Throughout Malachi we will see how God, as a loving Father, confronts, corrects, and challenges the people of Israel about straying from Him. No one is excluded."
• "Malachi is a call for Israel to return to God before the Messiah comes to earth, for it was written to a people who lived in expectation of Him, but who had not yet seen Him."
• "Fortunately, the message of Malachi is not only for those who hadn’t yet encountered the Messiah, for its message is not merely, “shape up, because the Messiah is coming”; it is, “evaluate yourself, for you are not measuring up to what is required of you.” Just as the people in Malachi’s day were to introspectively evaluate their walks with God, we must take an inventory of our lives as well."
• Malachi in the text is referred to as "My Messenger" or "My Angel," and this reference has multiple meanings including word of the Lord to Israel, word of the Lord to the priesthood, the forerunner to the Messiah, and the Messiah Himself.
• Malachi was a contemporary of Nehemiah - see also this overview of the book of Nehemiah.
• The audience of the book is a unified Israel and written during 450 and 430 BC after Cyrus of Persia's decree that all Jews return to the land of their forefathers. 
• The temple has been rebuilt and the priesthood reestablished.
• Moral degradation is at all-time high.
• Malachi looks forward to the Messiah.
  

Looking at the text 1:2-5, the commentary outlines the following divisions:

• 1:2a God substantiates His love for His people through His declaration: Although throughout the OT Israel often misses it, God repeatedly asserts His love for His people by protection of Israel and punishment of its enemies.  One such example is how God rescued Israel out of bondage from Egypt while Pharaoh and his armies drowned in the Red Sea.  Of course, there are MANY others! For believers, we should be reminded that God loved us first and while we were still sinners, hostile and an enemy to Him!
• 1:2b God substantiates His love for His people through His election: Our actions do not determine our faith - instead our faith is a gift from God delivered as a result of God's purpose alone.  The commentary points to how the text uses the example of Esau and how Paul describes God's love for Jacob (vs Esau) in Romans 9:10-12 and shares: "God’s election, then, is not influenced by human interaction or cooperation. He chose Abraham out of all the people of the world. He chose Abraham’s son, Isaac, instead of his half-brother, Ishmael. He chose Jacob over his older brother, Esau. He chose the Israelites over all other nations. But He did not choose them based on their merit....The point is not that God loved Jacob more than Esau, but that He desired to make a covenant with Jacob instead of Esau. Consequently, the reason why election is referred to in Malachi 1 is not to create a sense of exclusion. Instead, election is deployed by the prophet to comfort and reassure the people of God."  
  
• 1:3-5 God substantiates His love for His people through His rejection: "God’s rejection of Edom is a response to their wickedness. There is a contrast in the text between wicked Edom and blessed Israel....God’s love for Israel should not be left to speculation. He pointed the people to a historical event to prove His love: the people of God had been brought back from Babylonian captivity while the land of Edom remained in perpetual ruin."
  

The doctrine of election is intended to humble us, reminding us that God's love for believers is not the result of anything we did or do.  We should not respond with a sense of entitlement nor arrogance and we should not be self-reliant as God alone provides - John 15:5 reminds us that apart from God we can do nothing.  We should also see how God loves us even in our punishment, and that He welcomes back those who repent as the commentary closes with a reference to the parable of the Prodigal Son in Luke 15.   

Comment and discuss this post.

My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves me and who is full of grace and love me - not because of anything I do or did, but simply because You are full of grace.  Thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of my salvation nor any of the blessings You pour out for me. 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.

Your own eyes shall see this, and you shall say, “Great is the LORD beyond the border of Israel!”

Malachi 1:2-5

Your own eyes shall see this, and you shall say, “Great is the LORD beyond the border of Israel!” Malachi 1:5

I return to my study of the last four books of the OT using the Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary volume for this book, moving on to Malachi, the last book of the Old Testament.  The commentary provides an introduction to this book, as well providing the first chapter of the commentary by dividing up 1:2-5 into three divisions.  Today, however, I review 1:2-5 unassisted by the commentary.  Here, the prophet Malachi speaks to Israel and responds to Israel's doubt over God's love of His people.  The primary message here is how God loves His people by protecting them from their enemies.  One of these such enemies is Edom, the land and people that descended from Esau, Jacob's brother, first discussed in Genesis 25.  Jacob stole Esau's birthright and Esau was greatly angered, and married an Ishmaelite.  While Jacob and Esau reached somewhat of a truce later, the Edomites and Israel frequently warred and hated each other.  God loved Jacob (later renamed Israel as he would become father of the Israelite nation) but hated Esau (Edom) (v3).  God remained angry with Edom forever (v4). God challenged Israel to see His love for His people using this example of how His name is feared by Israel's enemies (v5).  God protects His people.

Comment and discuss this post.

My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and protects - thank You Father!  I am not deserving of how You preserve and protect me, from both the sting of sin and death.  Thank You Jesus.  With You I know I will overcome the world!  I am not deserving my salvation nor such blessings.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and 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 Dsutin.  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 gather all the nations against Jerusalem to battle, and the city shall be taken and the houses plundered and the women raped. Half of the city shall go out into exile, but the rest of the people shall not be cut off from the city. Then the LORD will go out and fight against those nations as when he fights on a day of battle.

Zechariah 14:1-3

For I will gather all the nations against Jerusalem to battle, and the city shall be taken and the houses plundered and the women raped. Half of the city shall go out into exile, but the rest of the people shall not be cut off from the city. Then the LORD will go out and fight against those nations as when he fights on a day of battle. Zechariah 14:2-3

I continue my study of the last four books of the OT (complete: Zephaniah, Haggai; to complete: Zechariah, Malachi) - using the Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary volume for this book.  For today, my focus is a commentary-assisted review of Zechariah 14:1-3, which the commentary outlines as the second of four divisions for the text 13:2-14:21 (13:2-9, 14:1-3, 14:4-9, 14:10-21).  Here the commentary depicts the text for this division with the title Satan’s Gruesome Attack on Jerusalem.  It then shares how the text provides a glimpse of what will happen to Jerusalem at the Battle of Armageddon during end times (see Revelation 16:16 and 19:11-20), describing the scene: "[t]he intent of this worldwide attack will be to impose satanic authority on Jerusalem and to subdue God’s people completely."  The commentary then emphasizes how at that point God steps in to finally defeat Satan. We are reminded that our safety and refuge "does not depend on our distance from danger...[but instead] on our nearness to God," implying that is where our focus should be.  God is always with us and He will help us overcome anything the world will ever throw at us - He will save us and we will overcome (see John 16:33). God promises to remain near to those who remain near to Him (spending time with Him in scripture study, prayer, etc.) - see Jeremiah 29:13.

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My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God and my Savior.  I am SO grateful for the amazing grace You pour out for me every day.  You save and You are saving a place for me in Heaven and oh what a glorious place it will be.  I am not deserving of how You save and how You protect, 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 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.

Then I will encamp at my house as a guard, so that none shall march to and fro; no oppressor shall again march over them, for now I see with my own eyes.

Zechariah 9:1-8

Then I will encamp at my house as a guard, so that none shall march to and fro; no oppressor shall again march over them, for now I see with my own eyes. Zechariah 9:8

I continue my study of the last four books of the OT (complete: Zephaniah, Haggai; to complete: Zechariah, Malachi) - using the Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary volume for this book.  For today, my focus is a commentary-assisted review of Zechariah 9:1-8, which the commentary outlines as the first of three divisions for the text 9:1-9:17 (9:1-8, 9-13, 14-17). The commentary starts by sharing how Zechariah chapter 9 and subsequent chapters (14 in all) are forward-looking, providing prophecies of the coming Messiah Jesus.  Today's text begins by describing "the oracle of the word of the Lord," and the commentary shares how this same word is used again in chapters 12-14.  The text prophecies God's judgement on Israel's neighbors and historical enemies that is ultimately delivered through Alexander the Great.  The commentary also notes how God protected Israel from Alexander as he marched to Jerusalem: "God spoke to the high priest in his sleep and told him to decorate the city with wreaths and to have the people of Jerusalem wear white garments, while the priests dressed in their holy robes to welcome Alexander. When Alexander approached the city, he was so impressed by the sight that he prostrated himself and offered sacrifices to the Lord, sparing the city (Josephus, Antiquities, XI, viii.3–5)." The commentary concludes by describing how the prophecy in v8 extends beyond Israel's current predicament (at time of writing), pointing to how Jesus' arrival offers refuge and protection as no other can.  Believers can take comfort in how the victory over sin and death is already won!

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My Prayer: Lord Jesus, Father, You are an awesome God who is my refuge and my rock - I know that I can turn to You in times of trouble and that You are always with me.  Thank You Jesus! I am not deserving of how You protect and provide refuge.  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.

Then I will encamp at my house as a guard, so that none shall march to and fro; no oppressor shall again march over them, for now I see with my own eyes.

Zechariah 9:1-8

Then I will encamp at my house as a guard, so that none shall march to and fro; no oppressor shall again march over them, for now I see with my own eyes. Zechariah 9:8

I continue my study of the last four books of the OT (complete: Zephaniah, Haggai; to complete: Zechariah, Malachi) - using the Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary volume for this book.  For today, my focus is an unassisted review of Zechariah 9:1-8, which the commentary outlines as the first of three divisions for the text 9:1-9:17 (9:1-8, 9-13, 14-17). Here, as the heading of the text describes - God pronounces judgement on the enemies of His people, and specifically mentioned are cities in the north what is now known as Lebanon and cities in what is now known as the West Bank.  Chapter 8 shares how Israel, now returned from exile and captivity, are to experience peace and prosperity, living in fellowship with God. Chapter 9 speaks directly to Israel's enemies and how, although they once oppressed God's people, will no longer as God declares in v8, supported by vv1-7.  Influences of non-believers have always been a challenge in redemptive history and until end times will continue to be.  These influences often lead us away from God into sin, and sometimes lead us into harsh times.  In the face of these influences we can be comforted by a God that desires to protect us and He is jealous for us.  Of course we must have a repentant heart and seek Him (Jeremiah 29:13).  

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My Prayer: Father God, You are an amazing God that lives in my heart and in my life and I know I can call on You and You will answer - thank You Jesus!  I am undeserving of such a God...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.

"Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven."

Matthew 5:3-4

"Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." Matthew 5:3-4

I continue to pause my study of Zechariah and of the last four books of the OT (complete: Zephaniah, Haggai; to complete: Zechariah, Malachi) - using the Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary volume for this book.  Today, my preparation to lead Sunday school at my church, where our class is doing a study on prayer based on the book by A Praying Life, moves along.  Chapter 7 makes much of poverty of spirit and how it should motivate and animate our prayer life.  This diagram from chapter 6 illustrates poverty in spirit:

This message from John Piper on DesiringGod.com defines and provides greater detail on poverty of spirit, including scripture examples of those who demonstrate poverty of spirit.  Our recognition and growing maturity of poverty of spirit is driven by our view of (1) God's holiness, and (2) our own sinful nature.  As we grow closer to God, our view of both comes into sharper focus.  In terms of prayer, anxiety, which is discussed in chapter 8 (see my brief post yesterday), should drive us into the arms of our Father and actually help our prayer life (vs serve as an excuse).  Matthew 5:3-4 should always be top of mind (scripture memorization) so that we can have a constant reminder of the blessing of being poor in Spirit. One of these verses (scripture memorization) should also be top of mind (I like Psalm 46:1).  Chapter 7 encourages us to lean on excerpts from text with bulleted prayers (God is our refuge) that can be repeated throughout the day - continuously.  

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My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You ARE my refuge and strength and I know You and Your love are with me always - 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 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.