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Theology Leads to Godly Living (Insights in NT)

5/5/2013

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Often people devalue theology, but it should lead to godly living. Understanding Christ's Melchizedek priesthood of indestructible life helps you intercede in His name for deliverance from sin and walk in the New Covenant with God's word in your heart and mind. Understanding the Old Testament tabernacle helps you prioritize Christ's sacrifice on the cross so you trust His blood for forgiveness of sin and the Holy Spirit to defeat spiritual enemies as you draw near to God, encourage others and accept persecution for eternal reward.

Exalt in Christ's Melchizedek Priesthood of Indestructible Life
Melchizedek blessed Abraham who gave him a tenth of everything. As the king of righteousness and peace without genealogy, Melchizedek remained a priest forever like the Son of God. Levi collected the tenth and also paid it through Abraham being unborn in the body of his ancestor. Because the Melchizedek priesthood brought perfection and superseded the Levitical priesthood, a change of law was required. Being a priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek was based on the power of an indestructible life. The former, weak and useless Levitical regulation was set aside for a better hope so one could draw near to God. Jesus guaranteed a better covenant being a priest forever because of God's oath of not changing His mind (Heb. 7:1-22). Exalt in Christ's Melchizedek priesthood of indestructible life.

Intercede for Deliverance From Bondage to Sin
Jesus lived forever as a permanent priesthood. He was able to save completely those who came to God through Him because He always lived to make intercede for them. This high priest met peoples' needs because He was holy, blameless, pure, set apart from sinners and exalted above the heavens. He sacrificed for their sins once for all when He offered Himself. The oath appointed the Son who was made perfect forever (Heb. 7:23-28). Intercede for deliverance from bondage to sin. 

Walk with God's Word in Heart and Mind
This high priest sat down at the right hand of the Majesty's throne in heaven. Earthly priests served as a copy and shadow of what was in heaven. God warned Moses to build the tabernacle according to His pattern shown on the mountain. Jesus' ministry, mediated covenant and promises were superior to the old one. He made a new covenant with the house of Israel and Judah different than the one broken by their forefathers after leading them out of Egypt. He put His laws in their minds and wrote them on their hearts to be their God and they His people. A man no longer taught His neighbor to know the Lord because they all knew Him. He forgave their wickedness and did not remember their sins. This new covenant made the old one obsolete (Heb. 8:1-13). Walk in new covenant with God's word in your heart and mind.

Understand Tabernacle Foreshadows Christ's Sacrifice for Sin
The first covenant had a tabernacle set up with a lampstand, table and consecrated bread in the Holy Place. Behind the second curtain was the Most Holy Place with the golden altar of incense, gold-covered ark containing the gold jar of manna, Aaron's rod that budded and stone tablets of the covenant. Above the ark were the cherubim of Glory overshadowing the place of atonement. The priests entered regularly into the outer room for their ministry. In the inner room, the high priest offered blood once a year for himself and the peoples' sins committed ignorantly. These external regulations could not clear the worshipers' conscience and were applied until the time of the new order (Heb. 9:1-10). Understand old covenant tabernacle foreshadows Christ's sacrifice for sin.

Trust Christ's Blood for Forgiveness of Sin
Christ entered the Most Holy Place once for all by His own blood obtaining eternal redemption. The sprinkling of the blood of goats, bulls and the ashes of a heifer sanctified people to be outwardly clean. Christ's blood cleansed consciences from acts leading to death so people may serve the living God. Christ as mediator of a new covenant enabled people to receive the eternal inheritance and be set free from sins committed under the first covenant. The law required everything to be cleansed with blood. Without the shedding of blood there was no forgiveness. Christ appeared once for all to do away with sin by the sacrifice of Himself. Man was destined to die once and then to face judgment. Christ was sacrificed once to take away sins and would appear a second time to bring salvation to those who waited for Him (Heb. 9:11-28). Trust Christ's shed blood on the cross for the forgiveness of sin.

Trust Holy Spirit By Waiting for Christ to Defeat Spiritual Enemies
The law was a shadow and not the reality of the good things to come. Yearly sacrifices could never make people perfect since they were a reminder of sins. It was impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins. After Christ did His will by making everyone holy through His one sacrifice, He sat down at God's right hand. Since that time, He waited for His enemies to be made His footstool. The Holy Spirit testified that He would put His laws in their hearts, write them on their minds and not remember their sins (Heb. 10:1-18). Trust Holy Spirit by waiting for Christ to defeat spiritual enemies.

Draw Near to God While Encouraging Others and Accepting Persecution for Eternal Reward
Believers confidently entered the Most Holy Place by Jesus' blood in drawing near to God. They held onto hope with a sincere heart cleansed from a guilty conscience in full assurance of faith and bodies washed with pure water. They considered how to spur one another toward love and good deeds. They kept meeting together for encouragement until the Day approached. No sacrifice for sin was left, but God judged His enemies who kept sinning after receiving the knowledge of the truth. He punished and took revenge on those who insulted the Spirit of grace. His people were publicly exposed to insult and persecution, sympathized with those in prison and accepted the confiscation of their property knowing they had better and lasting possessions. Instead of throwing away confidence of rich reward, they persevered in doing God's will and received His promises in living by faith and not shrinking back (Heb. 10:19-39). Draw near to God while encouraging others and accepting persecution for eternal reward.



Understanding Christ's Melchizedek priesthood of indestructible life helps you do the following: 
1. Intercede in His name for deliverance from sin  
2. Walk in the New Covenant with God's word in your heart and mind. 
Understanding the Old Testament tabernacle helps you do the following:
1. Prioritize Christ's sacrifice on the cross 
2. Trust His blood for forgiveness of sin
3. Trust the Holy Spirit to defeat spiritual enemies
4. Draw near to God 
5. Encourage others
6. Accept persecution for eternal reward



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How to Prepare for Kingdom Ministry (Insights in Psalms)

3/2/2013

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To prepare for kingdom work, fight bravely knowing God defeats spiritual enemies. Trust in His resources, build people up through His word, organize kingdom work in holiness and prayer, share ministry among various generations, let God choose workers without distinction between secular and sacred work, listen to God for practical details in ministry, and receive wealth and power from Him.

Fight Bravely Knowing God Defeats Spiritual Enemies

David expressed sympathy to Hanun because his father showed kindness to  him. The Ammonites told Hanun that David's intentions was to spy and overthrow the land. Hanun humiliated  David's men by shaving and cutting off their garments in the middle at the buttocks.  The Ammonites hired 32,000 chariots and charioteers while Joab deployed his best troops in Israel against Arameans. Troops helped one another if Arameans or Ammonites became too strong for one group. Joab said to be strong and fight bravely because the Lord would do what was right in His sight. The Arameans fled before Joab and David killed 7,000 charioteers and 40,000 foot soldiers. They made peace and were subject to David. The Arameans were not willing to help the Ammonites anymore. Joab took much plunder from the cities of the Ammonites, placed their king's crown on David's head and consigned their people to slave labor. They subjected the Philistines by killing Goliath's brother and other large descendants of Rapha (1 Chron. 19:1-20:8). Fight bravely knowing God does right and defeats spiritual enemies. 

Trust in God's Resources and Not Your Own
Satan rose up against Israel and incited David to take a census. Joab warned David that counting the Israelites would bring guilt on Israel. He counted 1.1 million fighting men in Israel and 470,000 in Judah. Because David's command was repulsive to Levi, Benjamin and God, He punished Israel. Gad gave David three options because of his sin: three years of famine, three months of enemies overtaking them or three days of plague. David asked to fall into God's merciful hands and not in men's. The Lord sent a plague that killed 70,000 men of Israel. David saw an angel of the Lord standing between heaven and earth with a drawn sword extended over Jerusalem. David obeyed God's word to build an altar to Him on the threshing floor of Araunah. He paid the full price to sacrifice a burnt offering that cost something (1 Chron. 21:1-30). Trust in God's resources and not your own since He fights for you.

Build People Up Through His Word
David appointed aliens living in Israel as stonecutters to prepare dressed stone for building the house of God. He provided iron, bronze and cedar logs to make nails for the doors and fittings. David prepared extensively to build the magnificent house of fame and splendor in the sight of the nations. Shedding blood in wars prevented David from building the house. He charged Solomon to build it according to God's word. Solomon was a man of peace with rest from all his enemies. David told him the Lord would be with him and have success if he kept the law. He asked God to give Solomon discretion and understanding, be strong and courageous without fear or discouragement when He put him in command over Israel. David took great pains to provide 100,000 talents of gold, 1 million talents of silver, large amount  of bronze and iron, wood and stone. He provided many workmen including stonecutters, masons, carpenters and craftsmen skilled in gold, silver, bronze and iron. David ordered all the Israelite leaders help Solomon and devote their heart and soul to seeking God (1 Chron. 22:1-19). Build people up through His word with a servant heart.  

Organize Kingdom Work in Holiness and Prayer
David made 24,000 Levites supervise the work of the temple, 6,000 as officials and judges, 4,000 as gatekeepers and 4,000 to praise the Lord with musical instruments. He divided the Levites into groups corresponding to the sons of Levi: Gershonites, Kohathites and Merarites. The Levites helped Aaron's descendants in the temple service and purification of sacred things. They thanked and praised God every morning, evening and whenever burnt offerings were presented during the feasts. They carried out their responsibilities in the proper number and way prescribed for the Tent of Meeting and Holy Place (1 Chron. 23:1-32). Organize kingdom work so people pursue holiness, intercede in prayer, minister to God in praise and thanksgiving, and bless others. 

Share Ministry Among Various Generations
David separated Aaron's sons into divisions for their appointed order of ministering. A larger number of leaders were found among Eleazar's descendants than Ithamar's. David and his army commanders set apart some of Asaph's sons and two others for the ministry of prophesying accompanied by harps, lyres and cymbals. Asaph's sons prophesied under the king's supervision. Jeduthun's sons prophesied using the harp in thanking and praising God. Heman's sons were given God's promises to exalt Him. All these men were under their father's supervision with cymbals, lyres and harps for the music ministry at the house of God. They were trained and skilled in music for the Lord (1 Chron. 24:1-25:31). Share ministry among various generations in Spirit-inspired prophesy, praise and music ministry. 

Let God Choose Workers Without Distinction Between Secular and Sacred Work
These divisions of the gatekeepers through their chief men had duties for ministering in the temple of God. Shemaiah's sons were leaders in their father's family because they were very capable men with the strength to do the work. Six Levites a day on the east, four a day on the north and south, two at a time at the storehouse. Their fellow Levites were in charge of treasuries of the house of God (1 Chron. 26:1-32). Let God choose workers without distinction between secular or sacred work. 

Listen to God for Practical Details in Ministry
Each army division of 24,000 served one month each year. Benaiah was a mighty man among the Thirty and over the Thirty. Each of the 12 tribes had an officer over it. A list was made of officials in charge of David's property. He charged Solomon to serve God with wholehearted devotion and a willing mind for He searched every heart and understood every motive behind the thoughts. David gave Solomon plans of all the Spirit put in his mind for the construction of the temple, instructions for the divisions of the priests and Levites, work of serving in the temple, and articles to be used for service. All this was in writing because God's hand was upon David and gave him understanding in all the details of the plan. Solomon was to be strong, courageous and without fear or discouragement. The divisions of the priests and Levites along with skilled craftsmen were ready for work on the temple (1 Chron. 27:1-28:21). Listen to God for practical details in ministry with wholehearted devotion, willing mind and pure motives.

Receive Wealth and Power from Great God
People rejoiced at the willing response of their leaders who gave freely and wholeheartedly. David praised the greatness, power, glory and majesty of God. Jesus exalted Himself as head over God's kingdom and ruler over all things. Wealth, honor, strength, power and everything came from Him. They gave only what came from God's hand. The abundance for building the temple came and belonged to Him. David gave it willingly with honest intent. The next day they made sacrifices and presented burnt and drink offerings to Him. The Lord highly exalted Solomon and bestowed royal splendor while Israel obeyed and submitted to him. David died having enjoyed long life, wealth and honor (1 Chron. 29:1-30). Receive wealth and power from the great and majestic God who rules everything.


To prepare for kingdom work, consider the following bullets:
  • Fight bravely knowing God defeats spiritual enemies
  • Trust in His resources
  • Build people up through His word
  • Organize kingdom work in holiness and prayer
  • Share ministry among various generations
  • Let God choose workers without distinction between secular and sacred work
  • Listen to God for practical details in ministry
  • Receive wealth and power from Him



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How to Experience Blessings in Your City (Insights in Prophets)

11/26/2012

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To experience blessings in your city, first seek God's thoughts and ways, pray for all nations with other believers, be humble to experience His promises, meet needs of the poor, practice biblical truth through Spirit-led intercession and confession of sin, receive back children, material riches and favor to possess the land forever.

Seek God’s Thoughts and Ways to Bear Spiritual Fruit
Isaiah asked the thirsty with no money  to come to the waters so they could buy  wine and milk without cost. Why spend money on what was not bread and labor on what did not satisfy? If they ate what was good, their soul would live by delighting in the richest of fare through God's loving covenant promised to David. They attracted nations as a witness and leader because of His splendor. They turned to the Lord for pardon while the evil forsook his way and thoughts. Like the heavens above the earth, God's thoughts and ways were higher than theirs. His word yielded seed for the sower and bread for the eater to accomplish God's will and purpose. They went out in joy and peace bearing fruit for His renown (Is. 55:1-13). Seek God's thoughts and ways to bear spiritual fruit.

Pray for All Nations with Other Believers
God's salvation and righteousness was revealed to anyone, including the foreigner, if they kept the Sabbath and His covenant by serving, loving and worshiping Him. They received a memorial and an eternal name better than sons and daughters. God brought them to His holy mountain and gave them joy in His house of prayer. He accepted their burnt offerings and sacrifices on His altars since it was called a house of prayer for all nations. Israel's watchmen were blind, lacked knowledge and loved to sleep with unsatisfied appetites. Shepherds lacked understanding,  turned to their own way and sought their own gain (Is. 56:1-12). Pray for all nations with other believers. 

Be Humble to Experience His Promises, Revival and Peace
The righteous died to be spared from evil and enter into peace. God's people as offspring of adulterers and liars  burned with lust and sacrificed their children to idolatry. Their strength was renewed even as they forgot God because of His silence. Their idols could not benefit or save them. But a man who made God His refuge inherited the land and possessed His holy mountain. Even though God lived in a high and holy place, He identified with the humble and lowly in spirit to revive their heart and remove obstacles. God would heal and comfort those with sinful greed and willful ways so they could experience peace. It was impossible for the wicked to have peace (Is. 57:1-21). Be humble to experience His promises, revival and peace. 

Meet Need of Poor by Raising Up Foundations, Repairing Broken Walls and Restoring Dwellings
Tell Israel about their sins even though it appeared they did what was right. God did not see their humility and fasting because they exploited their workers and quarreled with one another. God heard their prayers when they loosed the chains of injustice, untied the cords of the yoke, set the oppressed free and broke every yoke. If they shared food with the hungry, provided shelter to the poor wanderer, clothed the naked and supported others, their light broke forth like the dawn, healing quickly appeared, righteousness went before them and God's glory was their rear guard. The Lord answered prayer immediately. By putting away the yoke of oppression, malicious talk, spending themselves on behalf of the hungry and satisfying the needs of the oppressed, their light rose in the darkness and their night became like noonday. The Lord guided them always, satisfied their needs and strengthened their frame to be a well-watered garden and spring whose waters never failed. They were called the Repairer of Broken Walls and Restorer of Streets with Dwellings when they rebuild the ancient ruins and raised up the age-old foundations (Is. 58:1-14).Meet needs of the poor by raising up foundations, repairing broken walls and restoring dwellings.

Practice Biblical Truth Through Spirit-Led Intercession and Confession of Sin
Sin separated and hid Israel from God so He would not hear. Blood stained their hands, lips spoke lies and their tongue muttered wickedness. Instead of calling for justice or pleading their case with integrity, they relied on empty arguments and spoke lies that birthed ruin and destruction without peace. Justice, righteousness, light and deliverance were far away because truth was nowhere to be found. It displeased the Lord there was no justice. He was appalled there was no one to intercede. God put on righteousness as His breastplate, the helmet of salvation on His head and the garments of vengeance to repay wrath to His enemies so men everywhere would fear His name and revere His glory. When the enemy came in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord put him to flight. The Redeemer came to Zion when Jacob repented of their sins. God's Spirit put His words in their mouths, their children and descendants from this time on and forever (Is. 59:1-21). Practice biblical truth through Spirit-led intercession and confession of sin. 

Receive Back Children, Riches and Favor from Former Enemies
God's glory rose upon them so nations came to their light and kings to the brightness of their dawn. When their sons and daughters came from afar, their heart swelled with joy. Gold and incense came from Sheba proclaiming God's praise. Islands looked to Him as they brought Israel's sons from afar with silver and gold for the honor of God. Foreigners rebuild their walls and kings served them. Their gates always stood open so men could bring the wealth of the nations. Former despisers bowed down and called them The City of the Lord, Zion of the Holy One of Israel (Is. 60:1-14). Receive back children, material riches and favor from former enemies.

Experience Joy and Prosperity from the Lord to Possess the Land Forever In His Time
From forsaken and hated to eternal pride and joy among all generations so they would know that the Lord was their Savior, Redeemer and Mighty One of Jacob. Instead of bronze, He brought gold, silver in place of iron, bronze instead of wood and iron instead of stones. He made peace their governor and righteousness their ruler. Instead of violence, ruin or destruction, they called their walls Salvation and gates Praise. The Lord was their eternal light and God their glory that ended their sorrow. All their people would be righteous to possess the land forever. The least would become a thousand and the smallest a mighty nation. In its time the Lord would do this swiftly (Is. 60:15-22). Experience pride, joy, prosperity, salvation and praise from the Lord to possess the land forever in His time.

Humble yourself to pray for all nations and confess sin with other believers while meeting needs of the poor so you can experience pride, joy, prosperity, salvation and praise from the Lord in His time to possess the land. 


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Preparation for Intercessory Prayer (Insights in Prophets)

11/4/2012

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"Listen, my friend! Your helplessness is your best prayer. It calls from your heart to the heart of God with greater effect than all your uttered pleas. He hears it from the very moment that you are seized with helplessness, and He becomes actively engaged at once in hearing and answering the prayer of your helplessness" (Ole Kristian O. Hallesby).

Helplessness causes you to wait on God without fear. Waiting on God prepares you to receive the counsel of godly people so your works become fruitful  as you trust the Holy Spirit to open blind eyes, free captives and release those in darkness. Proclaim God's praise and follow His leadership along unfamiliar paths to turn the darkness of blindness and deafness into light. Become God's witness so the world understands that He is Lord and Savior as you follow His pathway through mighty waters and in the desert since He provides all your needs. Now you are prepared to call upon God passionately and purposefully in intercessory prayer because He blots and remembers your sin no more. 

Wait On God
In silence, nations renewed their strength as God called them to service in righteousness. God turned kings into dust as craftsmen continued making idols. He chose His friend, Israel, descendant of Abraham, to be His servant from the ends of the earth. God strengthened and upheld His people so they would not fear or be dismayed. Those who opposed them became  ashamed, disgraced and died. The Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel, helped them become a new and sharp threshing sledge with many teeth to crush the mountains into chaff. They rejoiced and gloried in God (Is. 41:1-16). Wait on God without fear as His tool to defeat spiritual forces of wickedness. 

Listen to Godly People
The poor and needy searched for water, but their tongues were parched with thirst. God did not forsake them. He brought rivers within valleys, turned parched ground into springs and put cedar, acacia, myrtle, olive and pines in the wasteland so people understood that God did it. He asked those who trusted in idols to predict the future. In reality, their works were utterly worthless and detestable. God called someone who treaded on rulers and gave a messenger of good news to Jerusalem. Instead, they trusted in false counsel and their deeds amounted to confusion and nothingness (Is. 41:17-29). Listen to godly people so your works become fruitful. 

Trust the Holy Spirit
God chose, delighted and put His Spirit in His servant so justice came to the nations. He did not cry out in the streets. A bruised reed He would not break and smoldering wick He would not snuff out. He established justice on earth so that people put their hope in His law. The Creator God who gave life to everyone called His people in righteousness to be a covenant and light for the Gentiles. They opened blind eyes, freed captives from prison and released those sitting in darkness (Is. 42:1-7). Trust the Holy Spirit to open blind eyes, free captives and release those in darkness.

Proclaim God's Praise
God did not give His glory to idols. He predicted new things before they came into being. Sing to the Lord a new song and proclaim His praise everywhere since He marched like a warrior in triumph over His enemies. His servant, Jesus, cried out and turned rivers into islands, dried up pools, led the blind by unknown ways, guided them along unfamiliar paths, turned darkness into light and made the rough places smooth. He did these things without forsaking them. Those who trusted in idols turned into utter shame (Is. 42:8-17).  Proclaim God's praise everywhere and follow His leadership along unfamiliar paths to turn darkness into light. 

Obey God's Law
God's servants and messengers were blind and deaf even though He made his law great and glorious. His people were plundered, trapped in pits and hidden in prisons with no rescuer. Because of sin and not following His ways or obeying His law, God poured out His burning anger through the violence of war (Is. 42:18-25). Obey God's law to remove blindness and deafness. 

Become God's Witness
Do not fear because God created, redeemed and called Israel by name.  The Savior protected them from floods and fire so they would not drown or be burned. He gave Egypt, Cush and Seba as their ransom since they were precious, honored and loved in God's sight. He gave people in exchange for their lives. God gathered His sons and daughters from the ends of the earth. He led those with blind eyes and deaf ears to be His true witnesses and chosen servants before the nations so they would understand that God was Lord and Savior. No one reversed His works (Is. 43:1-13). Become God's witness so the world understands that He is Lord and Savior. 

Follow God's Pathway
The Redeemer, Holy One, Israel's Creator and King brought all the Babylonians in ships as fugitives for the sake of God's people. He made a path through mighty waters and snuffed out chariots, horses, army and reinforcements like a wick. Forget former things from the past because God did a new thing. He made a way in the desert and provided water there so that wild animals honored Him and His chosen people could drink. God desired that people He formed for Himself would proclaim His praise (Is. 43:14-21). Follow God's pathway through mighty waters and in the desert since He provides all your needs. 

Call Upon God Passionately
Instead of calling upon God, His people became weary of Him. Instead of bringing sheep for burnt offerings and seeking God with a whole heart, they burdened Him with their sins and wearied Him with their offenses. He blotted out their transgressions for His sake and remembered their sins no more. Their first father, Adam, sinned and their spokesmen rebelled against God. He disgraced the temple dignitaries, destroyed Jacob and scorned Israel (Is. 43:22-28). Call upon God passionately and purposefully because He blots and remembers your sin no more.



How does the preparation for intercessory prayer in Is. 41-43 help you call upon God passionately and purposefully? 

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Be Confident in God Who Defeats Wickedness (Insights in Psalms)

10/18/2012

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Self-confidence fails but God-confidence succeeds. Place confidence in God's intercession since He lives. He finds strong and wise men to defeat wickedness, silences those who do not know Him, judges those who attack you, appoints a tragic end for the wicked and judges everyone with complete knowledge.

Job asked what ailed his friends since they were miserable comforters with long-winded speeches. If he was in their place, Job would encourage and bring them relief. God had worn him out, devastated his entire household and gnashed his teeth at him. Men also united together against Job. God turned him over to evil men, crushed and made him his target. Job wept and was free of violence. With pure prayer, he cried out knowing his intercessor was his friend who pleaded with God on his behalf (Job 16:1-22).
 Be confident in prayer knowing God intercedes when everyone is against you. 

Job's spirit was broken and his days cut short. Mockers surrounded Job but he was confident God would not let them triumph. They made him a byword to everyone causing grief. The innocent were aroused against the ungodly. The righteous held to their ways and grew stronger. Job doubted if he would find a wise man. His plans and desires of  his heart were shattered. He lost all hope when those in darkness said light was near (Job 17:1-16). Be confident knowing God will find wise and strong men to defeat wickedness.

Bildad asked Job when he would end speeches calling them stupid since the world would still go on. Those who do not know God have their vigor weakened, terrors startled them, memory of them perished, driven from light into darkness and no descendants among their people (Job 18:1-21). Be confident knowing that God will silence those who do not know Him.  

Job wondered how long torment would last since he was reproached ten times and shamelessly attacked. He received no justice or response when calling for  help. God blocked His way, stripped his honor, removed the crown from his head, uprooted his hope and counted an enemy. God alienated his brothers from him, forgotten by friends and counted as a stranger by guests and maidservants. Job's wife found his breath offensive, loathsome to his own brothers and ridiculed by little boys to become nothing but skin and bones. He knew his Redeemer lived and in the end He would stand upon the earth so Job would see God (Job 19:1-29). Be confident that your Redeemer lives and will judge those who attack you.

Zophar was greatly disturbed and reminded Job that the joy of the godless and prideful lasted briefly. God made him vomit riches he swallowed so he could not enjoy profit from his trading. He oppressed the poor and seized houses he did not build. His treasure could not save him, his prosperity did not endure, distress overtook him and fire consumed him (Job 20:1-29). Be confident that God appoints a tragic end for the wicked.  

Job admitted his impatience and trembling over the wicked who increase in power and prosper economically without fear. They requested God to leave them alone since they had no desire to know, serve or pray to Him.  Job asked that the wicked see their destruction and drink of God's wrath. No one taught knowledge to God since He judged even the highest. Those at ease and the bitter both die and decay. He wondered if the wicked would be made accountable for their actions (Job 21:1-34). Be confident that God judges everyone with complete knowledge. 


Remember God's promise in Heb. 7:25 when you see wickedness: Therefore He is able to save completely those who come to God through Him, because He always lives to intercede for them.



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Responding to a Leadership Crisis (Insights in Prophets)

12/18/2011

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America has a crisis of confidence in its government, its large businesses, its schools and its churches.  For the last few decades Americans have been leaving existing organizations and not joining new ones. Robert Putnam discussed the decline in social capital the US has experienced in his book Bowling Alone. Part of our loss of leadership is our loss of belonging.

Lao-Tzu's Tao Te Ching  said,
 "Learn from the people 
Plan with the people 
Begin with what they have 
Build on what they know 
Of the best leaders 
When the task is accomplished 
The people will remark 
We have done it ourselves." 

2 Samuel 20 explains how David responded successfully to a leadership crisis.

Rebellion
Because Sheba, a worthless fellow, said Israel had no portion and inheritance in David, they followed Sheba instead of David. Judah remained steadfast to David. The ten concubines remained widows until they died (2 Sam. 20:1-3). People easily rebel from God's plan and follow worthless leaders.

Responsibility
Abishai, Joab, David's servants and the mighty men pursued Sheba. When Amasa was not on guard, Joab killed him with his sword. Joab and Abishai continued to pursue Sheba. A wise woman told Joab not to destroy the city, Abel Beth-maacah, and "swallow up the inheritance of the Lord." The woman wisely came to all the people and they killed Sheba (2 Sam. 20:4-22). Let people take personal responsibility for their welfare instead of relying on the government. 

Service
Joab was over the Israel's army, Benaiah over the Cherethites and Pelethites; Aboram over the forced labor; Jehoshaphat was the recorder; Sheva was scribe; and Zadok, Abiathar, Ira the Jairite were priests (2 Sam. 20:23-26). Let people serve according to their gifts and talents.

Prayer
David sought the presence of the Lord during three years of famine. God said the reason was Saul putting the Gibeonites to death. David asked them how he could make atonement that they would bless the Lord's inheritance. They wanted seven men from Saul's sons to be hanged (2 Sam. 21:1-6). Seek God's presence to learn the reason for any lack or need.


Obedience
David gave the Gibeonites seven sons, which they hanged in the mountain before the Lord during the first days of barley harvest (2 Sam. 21:7-9). Obey what God says even though it's costly. 

Unity
David gathered Saul's and Jonathan's bones with the bones of those who were hanged. They buried Saul's and Jonathan's bones in the grave of his father, Kish, according to what David commanded. God was moved by entreaty for the land (2 Sam. 21:10-14). Pursue unity as you intercede to God in times of famine and need. 

Rest
David became weary as he and his servants fought the Philistines. Abishai killed one of the descendants of the giant who sought to kill David. They told him to not go out to battle again (2 Sam. 21:15-17). Take time to rest as you overcome weariness in the midst of spiritual battles. 

Repentance
Four descendants of Goliath who reproached Israel were killed by David and his servants (2 Sam. 21:18-22). Repent of sin vigorously so it won't have a foothold.

Go through the following checklist when you face a leadership crisis:
1. Take personal responsibility to act

2. Serve according to your gifts and talents
3. Seek God's presence to learn the reason(s) for the deficiencies or lack
4. Obey what God tells you even though it's costly
5. Pursue unity as you intercede to God in times of famine and need
6. Take time to rest in the midst of the spiritual battle
7. Repent of sin so it won't have a foothold



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Pray Continually Instead of Worship Success (Insights in Prophets)

3/6/2011

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Congregations try many strategies to increase their numbers. A top-notch nursery, stimulating children's ministries, friendly atmosphere, practical sermons that keep people smiling, lively worship team and needs- driven marketing are common church growth methodologies. How does this fit with God's word? Quoting Vernon Grounds, "I say it bluntly: too many of us American evangelicals are worshiping the bitch goddess of success."
Samuel had similar things to say after Israel wanted a human king instead of a divine one.  

Samuel said he appointed a king according to their wishes and walked faithfully before them. The Lord was witness that he didn’t defraud, oppress or steal from anyone (1 Sam. 12:1-5). The power for intercessory prayer originates from a pure heart.  

Samuel reminded the people that the Lord appointed Moses and Aaron and brought their fathers from Egypt. He asked them to consider the Lord’s righteous acts throughout their history. For example, when Jacob went into Egypt and their fathers cried out to the Lord, He sent Moses and Aaron who brought them out of Egypt and settled them in Canaan. Because they forgot the Lord their God, He sold them into Sisera’s hand, captain of Hazor’s army, and to the Philistines and Moab’s king. Their fathers admitted they sinned by  forsaking the Lord and serving the Baals and Ashtaroth instead. He sent judges to deliver them from their enemies after they cried to the Lord. As a result, they lived in security (1 Sam. 12:6-11). The motivation for intercessory prayer comes from deliverances modeled in Scripture through confessing sin and claiming God’s promises.

When Ammon’s king came against them, they said to Samuel, “A king should reign over us,” although the Lord was their king. By listening and serving the Lord, they proved they believed in God and not a king. Rebellion, Samuel warned, caused God to oppose them like He did with their fathers. To reinforce his point, he asked God to send thunder and rain during the wheat harvest as a great sign so they would comprehend their great wickedness before the Lord in asking for a king. Everyone greatly feared the Lord and Samuel (1 Sam. 12:12-18). The accountability for intercessory prayer comes from signs showing the consequences of disobeying Him.

The people asked Samuel to pray so they wouldn’t die since they asked for a king. Samuel acknowledged their evil and said, “. . . do not turn aside from following the Lord, but serve the Lord with all your heart.” Disobedience would lead to seeking futile and worthless things that can’t profit or deliver. God's great name and love prevented Him from abandoning His people. Samuel said he would pray continually and instruct them in the good and right way. He asked that they would fear God, serve Him in truth with all their heart and consider the great things He did for them. Destruction would be consequences for wickedness (1 Sam. 12:19-25). In summary, powerful intercessory prayer leading to total peace and well-being requires a single focus on God, purity of heart, walking in the truth of His word and considering the great things He has done for you.


How are you worshiping success instead of God through intercessory prayer? Memorize and meditate on 1 Sam. 12:23.


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Training for Our Most Important and Fulfilling Job (insights in Law)

9/22/2010

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I remember struggling to figure out my college major. I took interest tests, talked to various adults and prayed. After starting my first job, I asked, "What a waste of four years in college?" The job was unfulfilling  and didn't seem to make a difference in peoples' lives. My youngest son is going through a similar process. What the world builds up as success ultimately becomes unsatisfying. Does God have a better way? Most of us are called to stay in our present jobs, even if it's unfulfilling, but God has a more important assignment that will not only fulfill us beyond our wildest imagination, but impact our families and communities for eternity. 
 
While Abraham sat at his tent in heat of day by the oaks of Mamre, the Lord appeared to him in the form of three men. While seeing and experiencing God, he bowed as an act of respect and submission to a superior being (Gen. 18:1-2).  
1. Prepare to encounter God in unexpected or inconvenient times.

Abraham wanted to host these heavenly visitors and hoped to find favor so they wouldn't leave him. He wanted them to wash their feet, rest and eat bread so they could refresh themselves (Gen. 18:3-5).  
2. Remain patient, available and receptive in God's presence. 

Abraham asked Sarah to to make bread cakes and prepare a choice calf in a hurry (Gen. 18:6-8). 
3. Minister praise and worship urgently to the Lord.

 The heavenly visitor said he would return at the same time next year when Sarah would have a son. Abraham and Sarah were old and she was past childbearing age (Gen. 18:9-11). Just as Sarah was called out and listened to the promise at the tent door, God  is personal in the midst of our circumstances.    
4. Claim God's supernatural and impossible promise that's personalized just for you. 

Sarah's laugh about having sexual pleasure with Abraham were symptoms of unresolved issues in her life: denial, fear and doubt (Gen. 18:12-15). Because God's promises always exceed human understanding, expectations and sensibility, they also reveal deeper issues of struggle in our lives.   
5. Allow God to reveal sin and unbelief in your life.
 
We encounter the central truth in Gen. 18. Is any word, matter or thing too wonderful or beyond the bounds of human powers or expectations for the Lord to accomplish? (Gen. 18:14a). 


The first five items listed above equipped Abraham for his most important job: to intercede for his family and a city--Sodom and Gomorrah (Gen. 18:16-33). Like Abraham, God assigns us as intercessors for our families and communities to delay and even prevent God's judgment because of sin. What's impossible to us is possible for God!

How is God developing your relationship with Him? Which of the five items listed above will you concentrate on so you cooperate with God's personalized training program for you? Begin interceding daily for your family and community.

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    Mark Pomeroy

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    My goal is to ignite the hearts of people by explaining God's word in the Law, Prophets, Psalms and New Testament consecutively, much like the experience of the two disciples on the road to Emmaus (Luke 24:32,44). I have been a missionary in Lincoln, NE, for 13 years with Christ For the City Int. and Sync with God.
     

    Sync with God is a highly versatile web app that hosts on-demand, virtual small groups. Sync is designed to connect young seekers in the faith and scripturally-trained mentors, even globally. It offers a safe, engaging interface for Millennials/Gen. Z and is readily adaptable to technical advances well into the future.

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