The People’s Court

ACTS 24:1-27 (July 6)

"The People's Court" used to be one of the ways I would waste away a little time every afternoon. I'm not sure, but I think it might still be shown on some little-known channel that only plays reruns.

The gist of the show was that people would come before the judge, bringing their charges against someone for some ridiculous thing they had done. I could wrap my head around some of the charges, but some were absolutely ludicrous and all I could do was laugh.

In some ways, this show made a mockery of our court system. And that is what I see happening with these charges against Paul. These Jews are being ridiculous. Paul is an innocent man. Their only reason for having him stand trial is they are acting out of fear and jealousy.

It took five days for Annais to arrive with some other Jewish leaders. They went before Felix, the governor, to present their case against Paul. They made three allegations against Paul:

1. He was a troublemaker who stirred up riots among the Jews around the world.

2. He was the ringleader of an unrecognized religious sect, which was against Roman law.

3. He had tried to desecrate the temple.

(Doesn't this all sound like a very bad episode of The People's Court?)

They were hoping these accusations would convince Felix to execute Paul. But Paul met their accusations with a rebuttal of his own. (Both sides get to tell their story,) He refuted them point by point.

Not only was Paul able to defend himself in every way, but he also managed to present the gospel message during his defense. He shared that he followed the Way and believed in the resurrection.

Felix was familiar with the Way, so he adjourned the hearing. He told them, "Wait until Lysias, the garrison commander, arrives. Then I will decide the case."

After a few days, Felix brought his wife, Drusilla to hear Paul speak about faith in Christ. Druscilla was a professing Jew, even though her great-grandfather, Herod the Great, murdered Jewish baby boys in his efforts to destroy the newborn Jesus, the promised Messiah. (I'd like to see HIM in The People's Court!)

She was a woman of rare beauty. She married King Azizus of Emessa when she was only 14 years old. When they had been married only a year, Felix persuaded her to leave Azizus and to marry him illegally.

While she did get the opportunity to hear Paul speak the gospel, she did not respond to his message. She lived a shameful, wasted life. Before she turned 41, she died a horrible, violent death when Mount Vesuvius erupted and both her and her only child were buried under the burning lava.

All that talk about the gospel frightened Felix, so he ordered Paul to go away, telling him he would call for him in a few days. Two years later, Felix was succeeded by Porcius Festus, and his final act was to leave Paul still waiting in prison for his freedom.

The People's Court had taken place, but no judgement was ever rendered. And Paul was left imprisoned, waiting for release, and the opportunity to continue his good work.

Roots & Wings

One Year Bible (July 6)

I Chronicles 2:18-4:4

ROOTS & WINGS

What’s In a Name? Eureka! I found it!! It’s not gold. It is more precious than gold to me…

I Chronicles 3:10 has my favorite name in all the genealogies. It’s the very last word in the verse, So, look closely. It is the single word, “Josiah”.

It just jumps off the page at me. You see, I have a grandson named Josiah and he is very close to the age of King Josiah in the Bible. My grandson is sweet, sensitive, and very smart. I pray that he will be the kind of man that King Josiah turned out to be as he sought after God with all of his heart.

King Josiah’s name means “God Supports and Heals” and he did just that! King Josiah was God’s greatest reformer! He became king at the young age of eight years old and reigned for thirty-one years in Jerusalem.

“He did right in the sight of the LORD and walked in all the way of his father David, nor did he turn aside to the right or to the left.” ( 2 Kings 22: 2) His zeal for the Lord started at just 12 years of age, and at the age of 26 (in his 18th year as king) he took steps to repair the damages to the house of the LORD, and to the people.

King Josiah is just one of my absolute favorite names that can be found on the pages we are reading? Who is your favorite name listed there?

To many of us, the long list of genealogies is far from “Riveting Reading”, but I and I Chronicles will show us many of the people of God that will always be remembered for their amazing faith stories.

You see, this book Chronicles the “ROOTS” and “WINGS” of real people.

They have an important story to tell us… The nation of Israel had “ROOTS” through the Temple and the covenant that God had made through Abraham.

It also has “WINGS” as is found in Isaiah 40:31, “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”

This nation is coming out of captivity and needs to hold onto its “ROOTS” until they find their “WINGS”. Their only hope is in the long-awaited Messiah and that hope is rising…

As you read through all the genealogies, you will see glimpses of God’s covenant at work even in the worst of times and with broken, unfaithful people.

The worst scoundrel could not impede the sovereignty and plan of God, and the most faithful servant could not bring redemption to pass. Yet, as you look at their names she should see a scarlet strand running through this tapestry of people.

Ask yourself this question, What’s in a name?

Adam… God clothed him and promised “A New Adam”.

Abraham… God asked him to sacrifice his son but provided the perfect lamb as the sacrifice.

David… Out of the lineage of David will come the Messiah.

Noah… God rescued a remnant of his people and saved them from destruction.

Every single name that you have read in that long, lengthy genealogy is part of God’s plan of redemption.

You see, a name gives you “ROOTS” and God’s redemption will give them “WINGS”...

What’s in a name?

“His name will be Jesus, and he will save the people from their sins.” (Matthew 1:21)

The Conspiracy

ACTS 23: 11-35 (July 5)

I recently finished watching a series on Netflix called Shooter. It was based on a movie of the same name, in which Mark Wahlberg played the main character. In the series, the character of Bob Lee Swagger was played by Ryan Phillipe. While it was sometimes violent, I was glued to the television because of the story line.

The entire storyline revolves around a conspiracy between U.S. and Russia. People in top levels were involved, people no one would imagine. And throughout the series, with all the various events that happened, one thing remained the same. They were all out to kill Bob Lee.

Paul finds himself in a similar position. After being taken back to the fortress by the commander, the Lord appeared to Paul, saying, "Be encouraged, Paul. Just as you have been a witness to me here in Jerusalem, you must preach the Good News in Rome as well."

You will notice the Lord is personally praising him, with no condemnation whatsoever, for the same thing the others are persecuting him for. That is how Paul stood strong in the face of so many trials. He knew he was pleasing God.

Is that enough to keep us strong and on the right path when trials and temptations come our way? Hmmm...something to think about.

The next morning a group of Jews got together ... and this is where the conspiracy is born, with over forty involved. They bound themselves with an oath not to eat or drink until they had killed Paul. They went to the leading priests and elders and told them of this decision.

Fortunately, Paul's nephew heard about the conspiracy and went to tell Paul. Paul called one of the Roman officers over and asked him to take the young man to the commander so he could repeat what he had heard.

Paul's nephew told the commander all about the plot to kill his uncle. "Don't let anyone know you told me this," the commander warned him.

The commander called in a couple of officers, telling them, "Get 200 soldiers ready to leave for Caesarea at nine o'clock tonight. Also take 200 spearmen and 70 mounted troops. Provide horses for Paul to ride and get him safely to Governor Felix (who was hated by the Jews)."

He wrote a letter to be sent along with Paul, explaining what had happened to Paul. He told the Governor he would ask that all charges against Paul be sent to Governor Felix to deal with.

Did he do this for the sake of Paul and his safety? Absolutely not! He did it for the sake of his own power and reputation. If the Jews had killed Paul, a Roman citizen, it would have looked very bad for the commander, and he would've needed to answer to his superiors.

Paul was taken to Caesarea where he met with Governor Felix. After reading the letter, he told Paul that if his accusers came, he would hear the case himself.

We have to continue our reading to see what happens next. But I can tell you for certain that through all the seasons of Shooter, Bob Lee never got killed, despite The Conspiracy.

Hall of Fame

One Year Bible (July 5)

I Chronicles 1:1-2:17

Hall of Fame

One year for Christmas my husband asked our daughter what present she would like. Her response was, “Ancestors.com, please!” We rolled with laughter, but she wasn’t kidding. She seriously wanted “Her Family Tree”.

Not only, did she get her family tree but she began to amaze us with her “Stealth Detective Skills”. Our daughter has Down syndrome but she is unstoppable when it comes to using her super powers in researching her entertainment of choice!

Her new choice was searching Youtube on our big TV for our last names. Mine is Strater and my husband is Sempsrott. Before long she had us watching her “Hall of Fame” selections. Come to find out, I have a cousin who sings professionally with our last name. Our original family-owned “The Strater Hotel” in Durango, Co. My side of the family has a lineage of pastors as well as singers.

My husband’s side of the family has a professional basketball player and a pastor who also sings and plays guitar. There is also another cousin who sings, and has an amazing voice! She found a few more pastors also. Her favorite relative that she found sings country. She was in “Hall of Fame” heaven!

Let me just tell you that girl is all about “The Family Tree”. Don’t even get me started telling you about all of her favorite foods! She will quickly tell me, “Well, I am Irish, you know.. it's in my DNA” She loves her people and her food

!

So, how are you doing with those nine long chapters of genealogies?

Perhaps, I can help you out just a tad in understanding why they are so lengthy, important, and filled with hope and promise. Hard to believe, I know!

Before you just skip over the first nine chapters I want to share with you a couple of thoughts about what is hidden behind those many names… great and small.

When my daughter asked for her “Family Tree” for Christmas, I chuckled and thought what a funny girl she was, but then I stopped and thought about her unspoken reasoning behind her request.

In the last few years, our extended family has grown very small. Those happy family celebrations have gone away with the loss of my parents, and my husband's family lives far away. We used to have such great celebrations and make great memories.

I think she was looking for her family in her own special way. She loves to talk about those that are “rooted” with us even though she has never met many of them, and she loves to talk with one of her "aunties" every day if possible. They have a bond!

The Israelite nation had lost its bond! They had divided and both Israel and Judah had been taken into captivity. They really needed their “roots” as well.

The genealogies at the beginning of Chronicles give them just that. It was probably written while in captivity by someone who had access to all of the important records that would be needed by the people.

This book is written to help the people as they are transitioning from their Babylonian exile to their new life in the land of Israel. It also reminds them of the rules, guidelines, and details of their former life as God’s people. I and 2 Chronicles was written from the priestly viewpoint of Jewish history. “The Chronicler” who wrote this book is believed to be Ezra.

For the Jewish people who were returning home having an accurate genealogy record was like a gift of gold! Their property ownership was supposed to stay with their tribe or people and they needed to have proof of their relationships, tribe, clan, and family.

To have their genealogy written down meant that they had a place that was their own to inhabit.

Also, as in the book of Ruth, they could have a Kinsman Redeemer to rescue them if they could show that they were a relative. Then there were the Priests and Levites who could not do their jobs if they could not show that they were from the lineage of the tribe of Levi.

These nine chapters of detailed genealogy were their passport to belonging in their new homeland, again.

As we glance through the genealogies, it is interesting to see how many names stand out to us. The pages are filled with people like Adam, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Moses, Joshua, Samuel, David, Solomon, and on and on.

It is quite a “Hall of Fame” of people who stood against idols, giants, and wicked rulers. They were God’s “By Faith” family…

There were others that are listed there that remind us of the dangers of living by pride instead of by obedience. They are the “Hall of Shame” group…

The Book of I and II Chronicles does not bring up the sins of adultery of David. It was written later after the fact. Instead, It is filled with hope and the promise of a new day of restoration and reminder.

It reminds the people of who they were, “God’s Chosen Nation”, and that He has once again delivered them from slavery due to their disobedience. But, even more than that, it points them to a king that will come in the Spirit of David and through the lineage of David. He will bring peace and hope. There will be a new Temple again, and he will be the one to bring them access to God.

I and II Chronicles will remind us of the “greats” that we have read about in 1 and 2 Samuel, and 1 and 2 Kings, but it will also introduce us to much new material through new hopeful eyes.

This long genealogy is the ray of hope that the people are hanging onto at this time of their return.

Through this long lineage will come the long-awaited Messiah. No longer will the people continue to sin because of their hardness of hearts. They will be given new hearts and a new spirit.

The “Hall of Shame” will be wiped away and another long list will be made...

“By faith… Abel. By faith… Noah. By faith… Abraham. By faith… Moses.

All eyes look towards the new “Son of David” and Hebrews 11 and the complete “Hall of Fame”...Now, that will be a genealogy worth reading!.

We Just Disagree

ACTS 22:17-23:10 (July 4)

There is a song by Dave Mason that was popular in the late 1970's titles "We Just Disagree".

So let's leave it alone, 'cause we can't see eye to eye.

There ain't no good guy, there ain't no bad guy,

There's only you and me and we just disagree.

This is a song about a relationship that has turned sour. The two people involved can't seem to agree on anything, so they feel it is better to just stay away from each other.

I think of all the "famous feuds" of the ages...Cain and Abel, the Montagues and the Capulets, the Hatfields and McCoys, even recently the feud between Brittany Spears and her family.

Then there are the more personal feuds we can think of...those between members of our own families, or between friends. Maybe you are even tied up in a feud with someone yourself. I know I have been there and done that.

Today, we find Paul recognizing two sets of people who have been feuding for some time. The Pharisees and the Sadducees. The Pharisees believed in the resurrection of the dead. The Sadducees denied both the resurrection of the dead and the existence of spirits or angels. "We Just Disagree"

Paul continued speaking to the crowd gathered around him. He told them he had been deep in prayer when he saw a vision of Jesus saying to him, "Hurry! Leave Jerusalem, for the people here won't accept your testimony about me." Paul argued with the Lord that these people knew about all the bad he had done before his conversion. But again, Jesus (in his vision) ordered him to leave, saying, "Go, for I will send you far away to the Gentiles!"

When the crowd heard the word "Gentiles" they lost it! It was like a Hatfield hearing about a McCoy. They all started shouting that he wasn't fit to live. They threw off their coats and tossed dust in the air. (I wonder if I try that next time my kids won't listen, if they will stop and pay attention? LOL)

The commander ordered that Paul be lashed with whips until he confessed his crime. (The commander still isn't sure exactly what this man has done to make the crowd so angry, and is trying to get to the bottom of things. )

Paul asked the officer, "Is it legal for you to whip a Roman citizen who hasn't even been tried?" OOPSIE! That was a big NO-NO!

The officer reported to the commander that Paul was a Roman citizen and the commander questioned him to see if this was true. Paul confirmed that he was indeed a Roman citizen. The commander told him that he was also a Roman citizen and had paid quite a bit to become one. Paul advised him that he was a citizen by birth.

At that time there were 3 ways to be a Roman citizen:

1. Citizenship was sometimes granted by imperial decree as a reward for services rendered.

2. It was possible to become a Roman by birth. (Paul)

3. It was possible to purchase citizenship, often at a very high price. (the commander)

The soldiers withdrew when they heard he was a Roman citizen, and the commander was scared because he was the one who had ordered him bound and whipped.

He waited until the next day and had the leading priests go into session with the Jewish high council because he was still trying to find out what the trouble was all about. He had Paul stand before them.

Paul said to them, "Brothers, I have always lived before God with a clear conscience!" At this statement, the high priest Ananias ordered those closest to Paul to slap his mouth. Paul responded, "God will slap you, you corrupt hypocrite! What kind of judge are you to break the law yourself by ordering me struck like that?" (Paul has about had enough, don't you think?)

He didn't realize he was speaking to the high priest, and had to apologize when he found out.

It was about that time he figured out that this crowd was made up of both Pharisees and Sadducees, and he decided to make this feud work to his advantage.

"Brothers, I am a Pharisee, as were my ancestors! And I am on trial because my hope is in the resurrection of the dead!"

Well, as you can imagine, this statement caused a divide within the council which created a huge uproar. The Pharisees started defending Paul. The conflict grew more violent and the commander became afraid that the would literally tear Paul in half amid their feud, so he ordered his soldiers to rescue him and take him back to the fortress.

These two groups had different beliefs, and because of those differing beliefs, they had absolutely no tolerance for each other. There was no ability to compromise. There was no opportunity for compassion and consideration. No pondering the "other side",

Sound familiar? This is the world we live in today. So many sides feuding with each other over so many things: gun control, babies' lives, what constitutes a marriage, the ecosystem, fossil fuel, and the list goes on and on.

And then there are the more personal feuds that happen withing the confines of our homes and our families, our workplaces and our friendships. It is only when we can start looking at issues with the heart and mind of Jesus that we will solve these problems, big and small.

Until then, "We Just Disagree".

The Hall of Shame

One Year Bible (July 4)

2 Kings 23:31-25:30

THE HALL OF SHAME

“If the glove doesn’t fit you must acquit!”--Johnnie Cochran, Lawyer

Who remembers these words from one of the most famous trials in the history of our country? I certainly do as I was in the hospital at the time and It was on almost every channel all day long!!

You see, the bloody glove connected this famous football star to a horrendous crime. They had to prove “beyond a reasonable doubt” that the man had committed murder and the glove was the connecting evidence. If that could not be proven he would walk free, but if proven guilty he would probably receive the death penalty. That is how the system of justice works, or sometimes doesn’t.

Can you imagine the pain of the parents when the man that they “believed had killed their daughter” went free? They had watched him being chased by a long line of police cars and now he would simply walk out the door and drive away again!

In the Old Testament, they had cities of refuge for people who “accidentally” killed someone because in their day and age retribution by the family was the law and penalty for taking another’s life. Yes, Retribution was the law!

Today we are ending our time in the books of I and II Kings and all eyes are on the Nation of Judah.

Not only does “the glove fit”, but the kings were caught “red-handed” disobeying God over and over again.

What a terrible “HALL OF SHAME” the kings had been for the people to watch and follow!

For the Nation of Judah, out of 20 kings, 12 were BAD and only 8 were GOOD! The Nation of Israel had 19 kings and every single one was BAD. They have already been judged and lost their nation!

This final chapter in 2 Kings tells us quickly of the last four kings' reigns. They were evil and they sealed the fate and judgment of the nation! The judgment of God is imminent! Sin comes with a price and that price is DEATH!

If just one member of our family is killed we desire justice! Our God who is both JUST and MERCIFUL watched his beloved nation commit Adultery and Idolatry over and over again.

Can you begin to imagine the pain of our Heavenly Father when he knows guilt upon guilt upon guilt? His acute sense of Justice could tolerate no more! His justice cries out for PAYMENT and His heart of Mercy calls for PROPITIATION.

Remember the children of Israel wandering in the desert for 40 years because of their worship of the golden calf? These people had spent a lifetime going back to their idols. . However, the punishment didn’t turn them around, did it?

All of King Josiah's faithful efforts couldn't possibly turn them around either.

Because The Glove Fit, God Could NOT ACQUIT!

REFORMATION would never be enough.

They needed REDEMPTION.

What would it take to appease the wrath of God and make man right with HIM?

Why does God have this wrath that can not be appeased?

“Whoever does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him.” Ephesians 5:6.

Even King Josiah’s best human efforts could not complete or atone for the sins of the people. Only a perfect King could do that. Only a sacrificial lamb that was without spot or blemish could be sacrificed for the sins of the people.

What does a HOLY RIGHTEOUS GOD need to atone for the sins of a guilty people?

PROPITIATION. This is appeasing the wrath of an offended person and causing them to be reconciled back to the offended by being “made right”. The debt of the guilty party is paid for.

The people must be DELIVERED into slavery so that the God who they have denied can DELIVER them from themselves.

The rule of the KINGS must come to an END so that the Rule of “THE KING OF KINGS” can come to PASS!

What can wash away our sins?... NOTHING BUT THE BLOOD OF JESUS.

“For this reason, he had to be made like them, fully human in every way, in order that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in service to God, and that he might make atonement for the sins of the people.” ( Hebrew 2:17)

Who could lift this “HALL OF SHAME”?

“For the joy set before him, he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God”. (Hebrews 12:2)

Only one perfect man, the Son of God, could appease the wrath of God by taking away our “HALL OF SHAME”

Light of the World

ACTS 21:37 - 22:16 (July 3)

If you have accepted Jesus into your heart, you have a transformation story... a story about the moment that he spoke to you, the moment you were certain that he was Lord of Lords and King of Kings.

Maybe you grew up knowing Jesus. It was the natural next step to invite him into your heart. There was no surprise, just the beauty of it.

Or maybe Jesus came into your life later, after you had done some things you aren't proud of, and people around you were amazed by the change in you. And you were amazed by the feelings of hope and promise that soothed away all the pains of the past.

Paul's story was much like the second possibility. After living a life of persecuting believers, his transformation was an incredible, blinding (literally) experience.

There is a song that these scriptures bring to mind:

Light of the world, You stepped down into darkness

Opened my eyes, let me see

Beauty that made this heart adore You

Hope of a life spent with You

And here I am to worship

Here I am to bow down

Here I am to say that You're my God

You're altogether lovely

Altogether worthy

Altogether wonderful to me

That Light of the World stepped down into Paul's darkness and opened his eyes (after closing them for a brief time) and helped him see. He saw that what he had been doing was so wrong. He saw that God loved him and had an enormous plan for his life. He saw the truth of the Good News.

And as the Roman commander was about to take him inside, Paul asked to speak with him. He asked the commander, using the Greek language. He did this to show that he was cultured and educated, not just a common rebel starting riots in the streets. He explained that he was not who the commander thought he was, and then he asked to speak to the crowd.

He addressed the crowd in Aramaic to communicate to them and show them he was a devout Jew and had respect for the Jewish laws and customs.

Hearing him speak in their language surprised and silenced them. They listened intently to his words as he shared his testimony. He told them about his dreadful past filled with persecution of believers. He explained all he had done in his wickedness.

Then he went on to share with them about the event that changed the entire direction of his life. He spoke about that meeting on the road to Damascus, and how that bright light engulfed him. He explained in great detail about his first meeting with the Light of the World.

Paul was proud of this moment in his life, where he was given the opportunity to make a change. He was grateful for that meeting, for that light that surrounded him, and for the heart change he experienced.

Is that moment of heart change something you think about often? Do you share it with those who need to hear? I know I could certainly do a better job of sharing my testimony of faith.

We need to make it a priority to share with others, telling them about how God took our ashes and made them beauty. How did he work through our heartaches? Through our sorrows and pain? How has he helped us overcome fear, worry and doubt?

How has he brought joy into our lives and made us feel worthy in an unworthy world? How has he stepped out of the darkness and opened our eyes?

Don't be afraid to share your testimony! This shows people you are different, and it shines the brightness on the Light of the World.

Never Enough

One Year Bible (July 3)

2 Kings 22:3-23:30

NEVER ENOUGH

“All the shine of a thousand spotlights. All the stars we steal from the night sky. Will never be enough. Never be enough.” (From “The Greatest Showman”)

My daughter and I love the movie, “The Greatest Showman”! The music, message, and struggle with the meaning of life are riveting!

Phineas Taylor Barnum was the mastermind behind the world-famous circus spectacle that would come to be known as “The Greatest Showman”.

He grew up a boy that was orphaned without much approval in his life. Although he now had a mansion, fame, a job he loved, and adoring fans, it was never enough. He was always seeking more. He found a singer named Jenny Lind who was as polished as he was “rough around the edges”. Perhaps, this would be his answer.

Jenny Lind's song “Never Enough,” told the story of how towers of gold, the adrenaline rush, the limelight, and the highest fame would never be enough.

You see, Phineas almost lost his family and everything he loved because of his searching for “MORE” which left him with “LESS”.

Our Bible story today left me with so many questions about wanting “MORE” but getting “LESS”.

Our innate "Desire for MORE" is not enough for us and it is not enough for God either. Our very best efforts can't make what is wrong in this world right again.

Yesterday, we looked at Hezekiah’s healing and heartbreak. He was a good king who sought God but stumbled in pride due to his human failing. Like many good kings before him, he was lacking something. What is that something?

By contrast, his heirs, Manasseh and Amon were the epitome of evil. Hezekiah’s son, Manasseh might have been the worst of all of Judah’s kings: “He did what was evil in the sight of the Lord, following the abominable practices of the nations that the Lord drove out before the people of Israel.” (2 Kings 21:3)

In fact, “He made his son pass through the fire (child sacrifice), and practiced witchcraft… divination, and the consulting mediums and spiritists…” (2 Kings 21: 5-6) Manasseh led Judah into the
“Lowest of Low’s” and greatly angered the Lord!

After the darkest of times, under Manasseh’s reign, came King Josiah. His name means “God Supports and Heals” and he did just that! King Josiah was God’s greatest reformer!

Sadly, we will learn in today's lesson that even King Josiah's best efforts were not enough...

He became king at the young age of eight years old and reigned for thirty-one years in Jerusalem. “He did right in the sight of the LORD and walked in all the way of his father David, nor did he turn aside to the right or to the left.” ( 2 Kings 22: 2)

King Josiah's zeal for the Lord started at just 12 years of age, and at the age of 26 (in his 18th year as king) he took steps to repair the damages to the house of the LORD, and to the people.

The high priest, Hilkiah, found the book of the law in the house of the LORD. It had not been read, studied, or practiced during the former evil reigns. When the Word of the LORD was read to King Josiah, he tore his clothes in an act of repentance.

King Josiah tore down every idol, read the Word of God to the people, restored the Temple, reinstated the Celebration of the Passover, and returned the glory of worship. He also removed mediums and spiritists. No rock of evil was left unturned!

King Josiah was completely, whole-heartedly faithful to God like no other king before him!

The High Priest sought out a female prophetess, named Huldah, and here is a summary of what she told him, God’s wrath was still burning against the nation of Judah, and it would not be quenched. (22:15-17)

Judah would still face judgment; King Josiah would not! God was moved by Josiah’s humility, obedience, and zeal in bringing about repentance, and restoration of the people to worship God.

Here is the verdict from God, “Because your heart was tender and you humbled yourself before the LORD… I will gather you to your fathers, and you will be gathered to your grave in peace, and your eyes will not see the evil which I will bring on this place. (20: 29-30)

Sadly, King Josiah died in battle and the people took Josiah’s son, Jehoahaz, and anointed him, king. Jehoahaz did evil in the sight of the LORD, according to all that his ‘fathers’ had done. He brought back idols and undid all the good of his father, Josiah.

A sad day is coming for the nation of Judah. King Josiah did everything he could to bring “external change”, but the people had “hearts of stone”. They were only changed “for a season” by King Josiah’s persuasion.

God’s wrath could not be appeased... All of King Josiah’s best was…NOT ENOUGH!

What will it take to “EVER BE ENOUGH” to appease the wrath of God and make man right with HIM?

What will it take to fill the void of the human heart with strength and love beyond its own?

“Towers of gold are still too little. These hands could hold the world but it’ll Never be Enough. Never be Enough…

(“Never Enough” from “The Greatest Showman

Another Mob, Another Day

ACTS 21:18-36 (July 2)

The news is full of reports each day of angry mobs of people gathering to protest one thing or another. One day we are shouting about which lives matter, the next we are making an angry statement about the value of the unborn. There is anger all around us, brought by the enemy, and many days it threatens to consume the world.

As I read today's Scriptures, I was reminded of another angry mob... the one who shouted to Pontius Pilate, "Crucify Him!" It was a mob consumed with hate for a man who threatened their power and beliefs. And we all know what fear and feeling threatened can make some people do. On that fateful day, they beat Jesus until he was near death, then they nailed him to a cross.

Paul finds himself in the same position. He had been warned by so many that he should not return to Jerusalem. The Jewish officials there were very angry with him (perhaps a little fearful and feeling as if their power was threatened as well).

Paul did not heed the advice of those who warned him. Instead, he went to meet with James and the elders of the Jerusalem church to give them a full accounting of his mission.

They, too, were worried about his safety. They came up with a plan that would convince the Jews that Paul observed the Jewish laws. He was to go with four men who had completed their vow and pay for them to have their heads shaved during the purification ceremony. Paul agreed to do this.

When the seven days allotted to their ceremony were almost up, some Jews from the Provence of Asis saw Paul in the Temple. They got an angry mob riled up against him. They grabbed him, yelling, "Men of Israel, help us! This is the man who preaches against our people everywhere and tells everybody to disobey the Jewish laws. He speaks against the Temple - and even defiles this holy place by bringing in Gentiles."

This put the whole city in an uproar, causing a riot. Paul was dragged out of the Temple. He was beaten. The commander of the Roman regiment joined the crowd, arrested Paul and ordered him bound with two chains. When he was not able to determine why Paul was being beaten, he had Paul taken to the fortress, as the crowd was still trying to get at him. When they reached the stairs, the soldiers had to lift Paul over their shoulders to protect him from the violent crowd that was shouting "Kill him, kill him!"

"Kill him, kill him!"

"Crucify him, crucify him!"

Two different words ... the same meaning. One angry mob ... another angry mob.

And still today ... another and another and another angry mob.

Figgy Pudding

One Year Bible (July 2)

2 Kings 20:1-22:2

Figgy Pudding

Yesterday’s victories can’t fight today’s battles!

Hezekiah has been Delivered from death at the hand of the Assyrians, but now he faces a Diagnosis of imminent Death! (This is no FAKE NEWS!)

“In those days, Hezekiah became mortally ill. And Isaiah the prophet, the son of Amoz, came to him and said to him, Thus says the Lord, ‘Set your house in order, for you shall die and not live’.” (20:1)

Talk about an abrupt bedside manner! “Informative Isaiah” has gotten straight to the point! Can we please get a second opinion here??? Isaiah 38: 21 lets us know that it was a very serious "boil" or malignant skin ulcer.

Hezekiah had just changed out of his sackcloth, and now he needs to use that old sack again. This ol' sackcloth was so 700 B.C. in fashion...

Have you ever noticed how “when it rains it pours”? It is now pouring!!

Hezekiah turned his face to the wall and prayed, “Remember now, O LORD, I beseech You, how I have walked before You in truth with a whole heart and have done what is good in Your sight. And Hezekiah wept bitterly.” (2 Kings 20: 2-3)

Remember the second opinion? Well, it’s time because God is now weighing in on the matter of his request...

“Before Isaiah had gone out of the middle court, the word of the LORD came to him, saying, “Return and say to Hezekiah the leader of My people, ‘Thus says the LORD, the God of your father David, ‘I have heard your prayer, I have seen your tears; behold, I will heal you. On the third day, you shall go up to the house of the LORD. I will add fifteen years to your life, and I will deliver you and this city from the hand of the king of Assyria and I will defend this city for My own sake and for My servant David’s sake. Then Isaiah said, ‘Take a cake of figs. And they laid it on the boil, and he recovered.” ( 2 Kings 20: 7)

Other translations say, “Make an ointment from figs” (NLT) or “Make a ‘poultice’ of figs”. (NIV) A ‘Poultice” is a soft, moist piece of material typically made of plant material to draw out infection.”

I warned you in the past that I always hear songs in my head. It is one of the hazards of being musical. Can you guess what I am singing right now?

“Oh, bring us some figgy pudding… And bring it right here!” This is like Christmas! Figgy Pudding and 15 YEARS???

Figgy Pudding? Did you know they actually use plants such as this to apply with a wet bandage to bring out the toxins? Fig Newtons for me from now on!

Who would have ever thought of something like that? I am thinking that would be the very same God who healed a leper by having him dip seven times in dirty water… Is there anything too hard for HIM?

I am in such a festive mood right now that I really wish we could just conclude this story right here with this happy carol. But, we must go on to look at the “gifts and treasures”...

The King of Babylon sent letters and a present to Hezekiah through his messengers as he had heard of his sickness. Hezekiah “showed them all the treasures of his palace including the silver and gold…(He was definitely into the wrappings!) There was NOTHING in his house nor in all his dominion that Hezekiah did not show them.” (2 Kings 20: 12-15)

The short story is that Hezekiah, out of his pride, “gave away the farm”... I mean, the Palace! Once again he would hear the words of God through Isaiah (only it would not be good news this time), “Behold, the days are coming when all that is in your house, and all that your fathers have laid up in store to this day will be carried to Babylon; nothing shall be left.”, said the Lord.

Hezekiah showed foolishness and pride by showing off his wealth to the Babylonian king’s envoys. The book of Chronicles tells us an important insight into what really happened.

“About that time Hezekiah became deathly ill. He prayed to the LORD, who healed him and gave him a miraculous sign. But Hezekiah did not respond appropriately to the kindness shown him, and he became proud. So, the LORD”s anger came against him and against Judah and Jerusalem. Then Hezekiah humbled himself and repented of his pride, as did the people of Jerusalem. So, the LORD’s anger did not fall on them during Hezekiah’s lifetime..” (2 Chronicles 32: 24-26)

“However, when ambassadors arrived from Babylon to ask about the remarkable events that had taken place in the land, God withdrew from Hezekiah in order to test him and to see what was really in his heart.” (2 Chronicles 32:31)

The man who was given Life over Death took pride in the gifts instead of showing gratitude to the GIVER of all GIFTS!

J.D. Greear wrote these words, “Hezekiah had passed the test of adversity… but he failed the test of prosperity.”

Remember, the Giver of all Gifts… especially for Figgy Pudding!

The Final Journey

ACTS 21: 1-17 (July 1)

How often do you listen to sound advice ... even when you know it is coming from solid-in-their-faith people who are giving you guidance based on biblical principles? Do you listen to their wisdom, or do you let it fly as if it doesn't apply?

Paul, along with Luke and their companions left the Ephesian elders and set sail for Jerusalem. They made several stops along the way, including Cos, Rhodes, Patara, Phoenicia, and Tyre.

In Tyre, the went ashore and found some believers they could stay with. These believers, both men and women, prophesied through the Holy Spirit that Paul should not return to Jerusalem. You will notice that women are included, which tells us that women were also given the gift of prophesy.

Paul paid no attention to their words, and after a week, he and his companions set sail towards Jerusalem.

They stopped in Ptolemais for a day before stopping in Caesarea at the home of Philip the Evangelist. Philip was an evangelist who had great success preaching in Samaria. He was responsible for the conversion of the Ethiopian eunuch and introduced Christianity to northeast Africa. Philips was the first to overcome Jewish prejudice and expand the boundaries of the church interracially through the admission of Gentiles to the faith. In other words, he was our first Civil Rights leader.

Philip had four unmarried daughters. Each of these daughters had the gift of prophesy. Several days later a man by the name of Agabus arrived. He also had the gift of prophesy.

He walked over to Paul, took his belt and bound his own feet and hands with it. Then he said, "The Holy Spirit declares, "So shall the owner of this belt be bound by the Jewish leaders in Jerusalem and turned over to the Gentiles.' " Another prophesy warning Paul about returning to Jerusalem. Everyone begged Paul no to continue his journey.

Paul was having none of this. He said, "Why all the weeping? You are breaking my heart! I am ready not only to be jailed at Jerusalem but even to die for the sake of the Lord Jesus."

Everyone saw that he would not be persuaded to change his mind, so they gave up and said, "The Lord's will be done."

They packed up and headed to Jerusalem. This would be Paul's Final Journey.

We see Paul being warned time and time again not to return to Jerusalem. But he did not listen, and because of this, he faced great persecution (story to come) when he got there.

We can say that this is the consequence of his not listening to good biblical counsel. How often do we do that ourselves? How many times has someone offered us their wisdom, but we stood firm in our own understanding instead of listening?

And how many times have we tried to offer someone that same wisdom, only to be shut down and ignored, or scoffed at?

It is safe to say we have been on both ends of the situation and can relate to both Paul and those who warned him.

But what most of us probably don't relate to is Paul and his absolute devotion and willingness to sacrifice for the Lord. We love Jesus, we pray to him, we praise him, we seek him, we live our lives for him ... but how many of us would willingly walk into the face of death for him ... like he did for us?

Paul was a special breed of man. God knew this even when he was still known as Saul, and God knew exactly what he was doing when he changed this man's heart. He knew Paul's devotion would surpass most other people, and that he would willingly walk into the darkness of suffering and death for the Lord. His Final Journey was all for the sake of spreading the Good News.

Waiting on the Wall

One Year Bible (July 1)

2 Kings 18:13-19:37

Waiting On the Wall

Have you ever felt like your body was frozen in place? You could hear the bad news being spoken around you but it seemed surreal and hopeless?

In 2 Kings 18:27, we catch a glimpse of the people of Judah facing terror with no place to turn. Assyria is coming to take over their country with a spokesman named Rabshakeh (A good name for this guy as I am pretty sure they were a “shakeh” in their boots about now!)

The "Rab-Shaker" says to them, “Has my master sent me only to your master and to you to speak these words, and not to the men who “sit on the wall”?

You see, Ol' Rab, the shaker, wants all the people to hear the FAKE NEWS, “When we put this city under siege, they will suffer along with you. They will be so hungry and thirsty that they will eat their own dung and drink their own urine.” (Oh poop, this can’t be good! This dude is causing intestinal distress!)

Every person, Waiting on the Wall, has their eyes directly fixed on one man, Hezekiah.

The story of Hezekiah (The 13th King of Judah) also unfolds in 2 Chronicles 28:27-32:33, and Isaiah 36:1-39:8. It is a powerful read to look back on Hezekiah’s beginnings.

This man is a “Rose Between Two Thorns”.

His father was “Awful Ahaz” and his son was “Monster Monassah”. Ahaz was Awful, and Monassah was Abhorrent! While Ahaz and Monassah built, promoted, and advanced Idol worship throughout Judah, King Hezekiah enlisted the people to destroy all idols, and return fully to worship God. He reopened and repaired the temple and called God’s people to recommit themselves to the covenant.

“Because of Hezekiah’s faithfulness, the LORD was with him; wherever he went he prospered. The Lord gave Judah victory over their enemies. Hezekiah rebelled against… Assyria.”

( 2 Kings 18: 7-12)

Hezekiah had been paying money to Assyria to protect them from being captured. The enemy has already conquered the Nation of Israel and now it had come to take the nation of Judah. He didn't want to "pay up" anymore, so now they are getting the "shakedown"!

Listen to some of the lies that the King’s field commander, "Rab-shake-em-up", delivers to the people. Ask yourself if any of “this stuff” sounds familiar to you...

First, he warns them that Egypt was a weak ally that would turn on them.

Then, he turns his intimidation on Hezekiah’s leadership saying that he had taken away their spiritual strength by destroying “The High Places” (idol altars).

Next, he then attacked Judah’s lack of military strength and skill and warned them not to listen to Hezekiah and his promises that the Lord would deliver them.

Here’s where it gets interesting… He promised them to make their peace with him and deny their leader, Hezekiah. After all, he can give them, “a land of grain and new wine… bread and vineyards… olive trees, and honey.” (v. 32)

Meanwhile, Hezekiah had ordered the people, “Do not answer him.” (18:36)

Is it just me here, or can you hear the voice of Satan tempting Jesus in the desert in this little rant and rave? “I can feed you. I can catch you. I can give you a new kingdom if you will just bow down to idols. Your God can’t save you!”

The whole encounter is just “slithery”!

What does Hezekiah do in the face of capture and devastation?

“He tore his clothes, covered himself with sackcloth and entered the hours of the Lord.” (19:1) The ancient practice of “tearing clothes and sackcloth” shows grief, anger, and mourning in the face of death.

What is Hezekiah’s plan to deal with his enemy?

Sennacherib’s messengers had communicated the Assyrian king’s taunt in the form of a letter. Hezekiah read the letter, then walked to the house of the LORD and spread it out before the LORD.

Then he prayed to “The God of Israel, who is enthroned above the cherubim.”(19:14-19). This is the God who dwells in the “Holy of Holies”... On “The Mercy Seat”.

Next, he sought out the prophet, Isaiah.

Hezekiah IMMEDIATELY REACHED UP for God…

And God IMMEDIATELY REACHED DOWN to LIFT HEZEKIAH UP!!

Here are the words of the Lord that Isaiah tells Hezekiah, “Do not be afraid because of the words that you have heard, with which the servants of the king of Assyria have blasphemed Me. Behold, I will put a spirit in him so that he will hear a rumor and return to his own land. And I will make him fall by the sword in his own land.” (19:6-7)

The evil King, Sennacherib of Assyria was killed by his sons while worshiping a false god.

Then, “The angel of the LORD"’ went out and struck 185,000 in the camp of the Assyrians!

As for the "Fake News”, the people were promised food by the slithery-voiced messenger, Mr. Rab-shake-em-up. However, they were actually given food from God that “grew itself” without them growing it for two years. After that, they were again able to sow, reap, plant vineyards, and eat the fruit.” (19:29)

You see when Hezekiah destroyed all of the idols and restored worship for the people he “Took on the Enemy”.

So, “The Enemy came to Take on Hezekiah”.

Unfortunately, Hezekiah tried to take on the enemy by thwarting them on his own at first. That didn’t work!

Fortunately, for Hezekiah, the enemy had to go through God to get to him! The King of Assyria seriously underestimated his foe… He meant to take on a man, but he took on his GOD!

As in Hezekiah’s situation, the enemy comes to lie to us in the very same manner… “Do you think your God can take care of you, REALLY?? He doesn’t seem to be doing a very good job of it.”

What lessons can we learn today from Mr. Rab-shake-em-up?

How about, "Liar! Liar! Pants on FIRE!"?

"Don't be afraid because of the WORDS you have heard?" ( 2 Kings 19:6)

Whose voice are you hearing in your ear right now?

Time to Reach up, and shake that "Fake News Off".

As for the people still “Waiting on the Wall” today...Will they see God in you and me?

A Future Unknown

ACTS 20:1-38 (June 30)

Have you been there? That point in your life where you know God is calling you to something, but you aren't sure what it is. All you know is that if God is calling you to it, he will see you through it.

I felt that way when I moved to Texas last year. It was hard to leave family behind. It was difficult to move away from my special friends, the ones who kept me encouraged and moving forward.

But I knew that God was calling me to take a leap of faith. I was aware that he was walking with me on my journey, and that he would be there if I stumbled.

I also knew that some of it might not be easy, in fact, it might be a real struggle. (I can't tell you how lonely it is without your special people). But even when we know the future may be hard, we can have faith that God will see us through if we are being obedient to him.

That is where I found myself last summer. That is where Paul finds himself as he left for Macedonia, traveling and making stops along the way. His planned route back to Jerusalem was altered after he found out about a planned attack on his life. So, he made his way back through Ephesus, after many stops along the way to preach, teach, and even heal a man injured in a fall.

Paul had no intention of stopping in Ephesus. He had endured quite a bit of trials in the three years he had been there, thanks to the Jews who continuously plotted against him. But he did realize that this would probably be his last trip through this area, so he sent for the elders of the church so that he could see them one last time and say goodbye.

"And now I am bound by the Spirit to go to Jerusalem. I don't know what awaits me, except that the Holy Spirit tells me in city after city that jail and suffering lie ahead. But my life is worth nothing to me unless I use it for finishing the work assigned me by the Lord Jesus - the work of telling others the Good News about the wonderful grace of God."

Paul is aware in his spirit that trouble and pain lie ahead for him, but he also knows that he had to finish the work that God had placed before him. Because of his faith in God, he was able to do this, knowing he would never be alone. He would always have the Lord with him, through every trial and trouble.

Paul goes on to remind them that he has given them all the knowledge they could ever need to know the Lord, and if any should suffer death without salvation, it would not be his fault. He had done in Ephesus what God had asked him to do.

He warned them to be on guard, to be generous and giving to one another, helping each other. He warned about false teachers, even amongst the leaders, who would rise up and distort the truth in order to gain fame and power.

He gave them over to God, saying, "And now I entrust you to God and the message of his grace that is able to build you up and give you an inheritance with all those he has set apart for himself."

And finally, he shared one of the most famous lines in all of Scripture: "It is more blessed to give than to receive."

Before leaving, he knelt and prayed with them. They cried and embraced him, knowing they would never see him again.

How hard it is to leave those you love and care for. I have been there and done that. Have you?

Paul's heart must have been hurting as he said goodbye to the people he had invested so much time, energy and tears in.

He was ready to go forward towards the continuation of his calling. He was walking into a Future Unknown, but he was walking with God, so he didn't need to know.

I don't know what unknows are in my future, or yours. I don't have a clue what trials may lie ahead as we navigate life on this crazy earth. But I do know that God is with us...each of us.

He is there when we see clear evidence of him. He is there when we see no evidence at all. He never leaves us, never forsakes us, even when the road is scary, painful, or filled with sorrow.

All he requires is that we put our trust in him, believing in his message, and living life according to his words. When we do that, we can rest assure that he is with us, even as we walk into a Future Unknown.

The Mirage

One Year Bible (June 30)

2 Kings 17:1-18:12

“The Mirage”

A mirage appears before the eyes like a beautiful oasis in the desert. It calls your name and promises to fill your eyes, your soul, and your body with clean, fresh, beautiful, crystal water.

A Mirage is so promising, until you die of thirst!

The nation of Israel had chased after “The Mirage” but they are about to be handed over by the Lord to their own demise.

“For my people have done two evil things: They have abandoned me--the fountain of living water. And they have dug for themselves cracked cisterns that can hold no water at all!” (Jeremiah 2:13)

Jeremiah was known as the weeping prophet and now you know why he was weeping...

Today’s passage is the low point of 1 and 2 Kings. Besides telling us WHAT happened, it also provides us with information on WHY Israel’s citizens are being carried away into exile to Assyria.

The cause of Israel’s fall to Assyria was due to spiritual failure, not military or political failure. This passage tells us of Hoshea’s demise. He will be the final king over Northern Israel.

The passage tells three reasons why the people’s time of warning is up… (2 Kings 17:7-41)

1) Israel’s sinful choices: The sons of Israel had sinned against the LORD their God… and they had feared (revered) other gods. They embraced the customs of the nations whom the Lord had driven out… and the customs of the kings of Israel which they introduced. The sons of Israel did things SECRETLY.

2) The Lord’s responses to their evil choices: “They served idols concerning which the LORD had said to them, ‘You shall not do this thing’. The Lord warned Israel and Judah to turn from their evil ways or face the consequences. He sent them prophets, miracles, discipline, and redirection.

3) The ongoing sins that corrupted their land: They refused to listen and turn away from idols. Instead they “stiffened their neck LIKE THEIR FATHERS”.

Perhaps as you have been reading through I and 11 Kings you have noticed this phrase frequently. There is one name that is repeated over and over again in regards to Israel’s sin. That is the name of Jeroboam. He had led the nation of Israel into evil practices.

Here are just a few examples:

“He followed the example of Jeroboam in all the sins he had committed and led Israel to commit.” (I Kings 16:19)

“I am going to destroy your family as I did the family of Jeroboam son of Nebat…” (I Kings 21: 22)

“But he did what was evil in the LORD”s sight. He refused to turn from the sins that Jeroboam son of Nebat had led Israel to commit.” (2 Kings 13:11)

We could go on with more verses just like these!

Let me put it this way, “No Israelite would want to name their son JEROBOAM and receive God’s blessing”!

Let’s look at who he was and how he led all of Israel down a huge cliff in search of an endless MIRAGE…

Jeroboam was one of the young laborers for King Solomon. He was a valiant warrior and distinguished himself as being “industrious”.

Solomon appointed him as an overseer “over all the forced labor of the house of Joseph”. (I Kings 11: 28)

The prophet Ahijah met him on the road outside Jerusalem and gave him the prophecy of him being the king over the northern ten tribes.

He would be KIng of Israel and would have “an enduring house” or dynasty. “I will be with you” was the promise IF Jeroboam walked with God and obeyed his commandments and worshipped ONLY HIM.

The problem was that Jeroboam WASN’T walking with God.

Instead, he was leading the Israelites farther away from God than they had ever been before.

Here are the footprints left by his legacy...

False gods, False altars, False praise, False worship, False priests, False incense, False prayer, and False feasts.

Perhaps you have heard the phrase, “Fake it til you make it!”

Well, he FAKED it alright, but he didn’t make it, and neither did they!

They “ASCRIBED” things to the Lord that simply were not true.

They “Altered” everything connected to God's laws.

They “PERVERTED” worship from good to evil.

They “ORGIED” and sacrificed their children, which was detestable to God. The Israelites followed Jeroboam’s footprints in the sand and that led to destruction!!!

They made their WORSHIP FIT THEM... their needs, their wants, their illicit passion, their greed, their desires for power, and wealth.

Rather than following God's ordained worship, they became their own gods and called it, acceptable. In fact, it was now "politically correct"!

Does any of this sound familiar to the world we live in today?

Where do we stand in regards to IDOLS in our nation?

Do we ASCRIBE, ALTER, and PERVERT the Word of God?

“Having a form of godliness but denying its power…” (2 Timothy 3:5)

This is NOT TRUE WORSHIP ....

Not THEN. Not NOW. Not EVER. It’s a MIRAGE!

A Powerful Story

ACTS 19: 13-41 (June 29)

The recent tragedy in Uvalde, Texas has been at the forefront of many minds lately. The loss of young life, the grief and disbelief, the questions... an unthinkable act that has caused so much heartache. It has also caused fear. Children feel fear when they go to school, parents feel fear when they drop their kids off at school, and there is a basic sense of fear, wondering who, where, and what is next.

It didn't take long for this story to spread across the nation, once the shooting was reported. Thanks to the media, and social media, spectators were able to follow the story across the world. It's that way with every powerful story that happens today... we get almost instantaneous access to the information.

In the days of Paul, there was no social media. Facebook didn't share posts with friends, the media didn't report on the 5:00 news, Emails weren't sent at the click of a button.

But a powerful story could still make "headlines". Word would spread the old-fashioned way... from one person to another. We get a good glimpse of a powerful story spreading across the land in today's Scriptures.

Sceva was a Jew who had seven sons. Together, they were trekking from town to town, casting out evil spirits, using the name of the Lord Jesus. They spoke, "I command you in the name of Jesus, whom Paul preaches, to come out!"

They met up with one demonic spirit that gave them a run for their money. When they spoke those words over this particular spirit, the spirit replied, "I know Jesus, and I know Paul, but who are you?" Then the man with the evil spirit jumped on them and violently attacked them. They ran away from that house, beaten and naked.

We must always remember that whenever God's power is at work (as it was through Paul and his companions), you can bet Satan is working to stop it (as he was through Sceva and his sons).

Did you notice that the evil spirit didn't even recognize them? He spoke of knowing Jesus and of knowing Paul...because of course, he recognized the power of God. But interestingly, he didn't recognize them because they were not working for God.

It makes me wonder... would the evil spirit recognize me? Would he recognize you? Are we doing work through the power of God that would cause him to take notice? I hope so!

Well, the story of this incident was a powerful one. And it spread like wildfire through Ephesus. Both Jews and Greeks spoke of this incident and the city became fearful. The name of the Lord Jesus rose in honor.

Many who became believers confessed their sinful practices. Some had been practicing sorcery. They brought their incantation books and burned them at a public bonfire. Now these were valuable books, totaling to several million dollars (and you thought Barnes & Noble was expensive!).

To witness the burning of such valuable books had a powerful effect on the people and on the message about the Lord. The message continued to spread... not via social media or television news, not by email, but by word of mouth from those who had witnessed or heard this powerful story.

One person who heard the story was Demetrius. He was a silversmith and made most of his money creating silver shrines of the Greek goddess Artemis. He called all his fellow craftsman together and reminded them that their personal wealth came from making these shrines, and since Paul and his companions were persuading people to change their beliefs, they were losing money.

In order to be persuasive, he added that he was concerned about the temple of Artemis, that it would lose its influence and this great goddess would lose her prestige. This made them angry. "Great is Artemis of the Ephesians!" (See how he used a political issue for his own personal gain?)

With so many hearing the powerful story of the evil spirit, followed by those getting angry over Artemis, you can imagine the city got confused and there was chaos. Everyone rushed into the amphitheater, dragging Paul's traveling companions with them. Paul wanted to go with them, but the believers wouldn't let him, fearing he would be killed.

The mayor was finally able to quiet the confused crowd and dismissed them, saying that the accused men had done nothing to harm the temple or the goddess.

The confusion began when Demetrius started spreading his own powerful story. It went against what the citizens were hearing from the previous story, causing confusion. There is a good lesson in this: talk spreads, opposing talk creates confusion, confusion leads to chaos.

This happens today more than ever. We need to take the information we receive, gather the facts, ponder and pray on it, and make decisions based on what we know to be right in the eyes of God.

And amidst all the stories saturating our world today, we need to continue to share the story of Jesus... the most powerful story of all.

Fools Rush In

One Year Bible (June 29)

2 Kings 15:1-16:20

“Fools Rush In”

“Fools rush in where angels fear to tread.” (English poet, Alexander Pope)

Where exactly would an angel fear to tread?

That is an interesting question as the most quoted words of angels throughout the Bible are, “Fear Not!” In fact, the Bible uses words related to this phrase about 365 times. This is one time for every day of the year. So, it must be important! Very important!

However, there is another meaning for the word, “Fear” in the Bible and that word is “Respect”.

Ecclesiastes 12:13 says, “Fear God and obey his commandments.” Perhaps, this helps us understand “where angels would never tread”. They would never cross over the line of obeying God!

Unfortunately, we have some kings that were not so wise as to “Fear the Lord”!

Do you have trouble “Keeping up with the Kings”? It can certainly be a bit confusing as in today’s story. King Uzziah is also known by the name of Azariah, and he is the tenth king of Judah following his father. He was known as a “good king” but was stricken by God. Why?

“He did what was pleasing in the LORD’s sight, just as his father, Amaziah, had done. BUT he did not destroy the pagan shrines, and the people still offered sacrifices and burned incense there. The LORD struck the king with leprosy, which lasted until the day he died. He lived in isolation in a separate house. The king’s son, Jotham, was put in charge of the royal palace, and he governed the people of the land.” (2 Kings 15:3-5)

First of all, I am wondering why do so many of the kings follow God but they are afraid to take down the pagan shrines of the people?

Secondly, many of them failed to do that, so why is this king struck with leprosy?

Today’s passage doesn’t really tell us why this happened. The reason for this is that the book of Kings is “just the historical facts, Ma’am”, while Chronicles takes a special interest in Judah’s kings. So we will look at more of the relational details when we get there.

King Uzziah (Azariah) became king at 16 years of age and reigned in Jerusalem for 52 years. Uzziah was one of the most effective kings of Judah. He expanded its territory and followed the Lord for most of his life. Then something went awry…

He “sought God… and God made him prosper. So his fame spread far and wide, for he was marvelously helped till he became strong.” Then “his heart was lifted up” with pride. ( 2 Chronicles 26:5,15-16)

Uzziah’s pride led to a grievous sin that the priests tried to stop. He overstepped his authority as King and set himself up as Priest and King. (No one but Jesus Christ is allowed to step into this dual role.)

Perhaps you have heard the phrase “FAST & FURIOUS”.

This describes Uzziah. He foolishly rushed in to usurp the role of the priest which was not his to hold and then he became “FURIOUS” when confronted by the priests. “Then Uzziah became furious… And while he was angry with the priests, leprosy broke out on his forehead.” (v. 19) Right there inside the Temple, Uzziah faced judgment for his foolish pride.

Uzziah had CROSSED THE LINE in his role as King!

Jotham, the son of Uzziah, was also known as a good king. He also did not destroy the pagan shrines which was a compromise like this father did. He rebuilt the gate of the Temple of the Lord. Jotham’s son, (Uzziah’s grandson) was “Accommodating Ahaz”. (King #12)

While Grandpa Uzziah CROSSED THE LINE as king, Ahaz MOVED THE LINE completely!

Here is what is said about him, “In DEFERENCE to the king of Assyria, he also removed the canopy that had been constructed inside the palace for use on the Sabbath day, as well as the king’s outer entrance to the Temple of the Lord.” ( 2 Kings 16:18)

Ahaz did not just change the outside of the temple, he changed the altar and all of the sacrifices inside of the Temple away from what God had required to please a pagan Assyrian King named Tiglath-Pileser.

When Ahaz was in trouble, he did not seek the Lord for answers or rescue. Instead, he sought a wrong alliance and let his enemy "free him from his enemies" while becoming his "enemies’ slave".

“Accommodating Ahaz” was so weak and without a moral compass that he basically ‘sold his soul’ and handed over the keys of the Temple of God to the enemy of God!

How do our kings’ situations differ in today’s story?

While Uzziah was “at the top of his game” he became prideful and CROSSED THE LINE usurping the role only given by God.

While Ahaz was in a time of desperation. He was “At the Bottom” and didn’t seek the Lord to rescue him. Instead, he compromised all that he knew about God and his Temple from the laws of Moses.

Ahaz MOVED THE LINE completely to demolish the Temple by remaking it as a foreign religion. In fact, he took the bronze altar for his own use for divination.

What do both of our kings have in common?

Proverbs 1:7 says, “The FEAR of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.”

Neither king was listening!

Unfortunately, “Fools Rush In” where angels fear to tread."

Constructive Criticism

ACTS 18:23 - 19:12 (June 28)

There are times in our lives when we think we really KNOW about something. Maybe we even feel like an expert on the particular subject.

Have you ever felt like the authority on something? Maybe it was how to potty train a child, the best way to shop for a car, or how to get the most out of your grocery budget. Whatever it is, you know that you know that you know...you KNOW what you are talking about.

How well do you do when someone has a better idea? Or when they have some more information to share? Constructive Criticism is hard for some to take. For others, it is taken with a grateful heart. Either way, it is a necessary in our lives.

Learning to take Constructive Criticism with a positive attitude can go a long way in helping you be even more of an expert on whatever your expertise is.

Apollos was good at taking this constructive criticism. Paul went on visiting with believers in other villages, and a Jew named Apollos showed up in Antioch. He was a believer who knew the Old Testament well and spoke eloquently. He had been taught the ways of the Lord, and his enthusiastic spirit taught others about Jesus. Like I said before, he knew all about the Old Testament, but wasn't versed in all the ways of God.

Priscilla and Aquila heard him talking to a group. Now they were well-versed, you might call them experts on the Good News, because they had spent a lot of time with Paul, gleaning knowledge from him.

So, they took Apollos aside and shared "the rest of the story" with him. They were not putting him down in any way. They only wanted him to succeed. He took this criticism well and made the most of it in his efforts to serve the Lord.

He made his way to Achaia. His brothers and sisters (believers) in Antioch wrote letters to the people of Achaia, asking them to welcome him. He proved to be a great benefit to the believers there, refuting the Jews with powerful arguments. And using Scriptures, he explained to them that Jesus was the Messiah, which was something he had learned from Aquila and Priscilla.

At the same time, Paul was traveling and explaining the Holy Spirit and true baptism to many who believed. They were baptized and immediately received the Holy Spirit when Paul put his hands on them.

God gave Paul the power to perform unusual miracles, such as placing cloths on sick people that had barely touched his skin. These people were healed of sickness and evil spirits were cast out of them.

What we see going on here is teamwork. Men traveling to different areas to share the Good News and strengthen those who already believed. They were doing the same job in different locations, making a huge impact on the Kingdom.

This was only possible because Paul (remember he used to be that wicked Saul) and Apollos had BOTH been humble and gracious enough to not only received constructive criticism, but to put it to good use to fulfill their calling.

What about us? When we receive constructive criticism, do we see it as constructive? Or do we feel like someone is trying to negate us, or harm us in some way. Do we accept that criticism with humility and grace, or with jealousy and resentment?

Remember, God can only use our hearts for service when they are humble and willing... willing to do his work, willing to live up to our calling, willing to sacrifice, and willing to accept constructive criticism...even when we think we're "all that and a bag of chips!"

“Dem Dry Bones”

One Year Bible (June 28)

2 Kings 13:1-14:29

“Dem Dry Bones”

As a kid, I grew up singing a chorus, “Dem Bones, Dem Bones, Dem Dry Bones”. We sang it at church camp and it seemed like our tempo would increase as we moved from the heel bone to the ankle bone, to the leg bone… Well, you get the picture! (A lot of our students were able to go on to become nurses or doctors after this rousing chorus. What can I say?)

The song begins with these words, “Ezekiel connected dem dry bones”. I must admit to this very day I have absolutely no idea what this means or who in the world came up with a song like this or why! No clue… So, of course, I decided to do a little “Connecting the bones”, as the case may be.

It turns out that this old-time spiritual written by James Johnson is based on the passage in Ezekiel 37:1-14, where the prophet visits the “Valley of Dry Bones” and prophesies that they will one day be resurrected at God’s command, picturing the realization of New Jerusalem.

We will see this song come “fully to life” when we visit the book of Ezekiel, but today’s passage is a little “Sneak Peek” of things to come on a much larger scale!

The main line in this song is the message of every single major prophet in the Old Testament, “Now Hear the Word of the Lord”!

Let’s take a look at the preview for “Dem Dry Bones” in today’s passage, “Elisha died, and they buried him. Now the hands of the Moabites would invade the land in the spring of the year. As they were burying a man, behold, they saw a marauding band; and they cast the man into the grave of Elisha. And when the man touched the bones of Elisha he revived and stood up on his feet.” (2 Kings 13: 20-21)

Now, I wasn't there, mind you, but I can just picture the first “Flashmob Dance” ever all throughout Israel… “Dem Bones, Dem Bones, Dem Dry Bones, Now Hear the Word of the Lord”. ( I bet the tempo is picking up a bit and gaining momentum!)

Just to ask a technical question, “Does this count as one more miracle for Elisha’s long list?” Hmmmmm, God is still at work even when Elisha is wrapped in a cave or lying 6 feet under!!

Let’s take a minute to go back and look at the “bigger picture” of what has been going on in this chapter. Jehoahaz and Jehoash are both bad kings of Israel in the last days of Elisha. In spite of all of Elisha’s miraculous interventions and prophecies, not much has changed for the Nation of Israel. They continually refuse to tear down the idols and the people continue to worship them. The kings are at war and there is no peace without God’s blessing. They get to a place of hopelessness, and God reaches out and rescues them to keep his blessing to David and his people. However, there is no improvement in their situation.

The Nation of Judah has some bad kings but beginning with King Joash, “The Mini Monarch” there is a change in the air as there will be four good kings in a row. It is King Joash that comes to bid goodbye and receive a blessing when the old prophet became sick with the illness of which he was to die. He says, “My father, my father, the chariots of Israel and its horsemen!”(2 Kings 12:14)

He is honoring Elisha by recognizing the power of the Lord through him and his mentor, Elisha.

Elisha’s last prophecy is to give King Joash the opportunity to embrace the work of God through him in a way that is symbolic of the victory that God is about to give him over their enemy.

He told him to take a bow and shoot an arrow out of a window toward the east. (v. 17) He then proclaimed that he would have victory. Elisha then asked Joash to take the arrows nearby and strike the ground. The king only struck the ground three times and did not show persistence. So, he was told that he would only have three victories over the northern enemy.

It is interesting that Joash did start out well in life as king, but lost focus and persistence like the arrow. Elisha, as always, had called that one correctly again. He could see “the heart of the matter” because of the Spirit of God that was at work within him.

Even in the very last verses about Elisha, we are reminded that his ministry was one of kindness and compassion. The Lord was gracious to Israel and had compassion on them… time after time.

This was not because of the people’s faithfulness, but because of his covenant with Abraham and David. God was not willing to destroy his people. Through his prophets, He repeatedly sent rescue, rebuke, and deliverance.

Isn’t it interesting that Elisha’s very last miracle actually occurred “Over His Dead Body”?

God was still sending a message to the people even after he had taken Elisha out of this world. What do you think that message to the people was and what do you think the people were talking about when “the man’s body touched the bones of Elisha and he was revived and stood up on his feet? (V. 21)

Folks, that is the only Halloween that I am celebrating right there because that was some HOLY NIGHT!

Perhaps, they were reminded of the woman’s son who was also raised back to life as they spread “The Hair Raising News” in their conversations up and down the street. Maybe, once again they were talking about the “Chariots of Fire” and the exchange of the mantle.

I wonder if they stopped to reflect on where that power came from, to begin with?

What idol had that kind of power? None!

Only the one true God could bring “life from death” like that!

Can't wait to read the morning headlines...

“Dem bones, Dem bones, Dem Dry Bones,

Now hear the Word of the Lord!”

Partners in Ministry

ACTS 18:1-22 (June 27)

God has blessed me during my years of working in ministry. I have had some special people come alongside me, helping me achieve my calling. I believe that those "partners" God gives us are some of our greatest blessings, and I am sure I would have achieved far less without them.

We all need those partners. The people who see what we see, believe what we believe, and support our efforts. We need those special souls who will jump right in and work alongside us, whether it be sharing the word of God or building a tent in the desert.

And when the going gets tough, when people come against us, and when discouragement has its grip on our heart, we need them even more ... to lift our spirits, soothe our troubles, and push us back into the race.

That is really what today's Scripture is about. Paul leaves Athens to go to Corinth. This city is the political and commercial center of Greece and has a reputation for its wickedness and immorality. They REALLY NEEDED the gospel spoken over them.

He meets up with a couple of new "partners" by the name of Aquila and Priscilla. This couple has a lot in common with Paul, because they are tentmakers by trade, just as he is. This is a great trade for Paul because he can literally work anywhere he goes, making and selling tents.

They work alongside each other daily, and you have to know that Paul is sharing the Good News with them. They are in Corinth because they were deported from Rome, and they willingly accept the message Paul is sharing, becoming not only fellow tentmakers but fellow believers.

Every Sabbath, Paul is in the synagogue trying to convince the Jews and Greeks that Jesus is the Messiah. As usual, he gets opposition from them, over and over again. After one particular time of opposition and insult, he shook the dust from his clothes and said, "Your blood is upon your own heads - I am innocent. From now on I will go preach to the Gentiles."

What exactly did he mean by this? His words were to serve as a reminder that Christians have a blood-debt to pay. Christ shed his blood for our salvation. We are expected to repay that debt by proclaiming the gospel to unbelievers. If we don't, God will hold us responsible. If we do, and our words are rejected, our debt is paid. The one who rejects us will then be responsible, instead of us.

Paul had tried, over and over, to share the message with the Jews. Many believed. But many also opposed him. And he was simply saying that he had done what he was supposed to do and was no longer responsible for their acceptance of the Good News.

He went to the home of Titius Justus, a Gentile who worshipped God. the leader of the synagogue, Crispus, and his entire household believed in God. Many other in Corinth heard Paul and became believers.

One night Paul had a vision from the Lord, who told him, "Don't be afraid. Speak out! Don't be silent! For I am with you, and no one will attack and harm you, for many people in this city belong to me." So Paul stayed for another 18 months to teach the word of God.

God encouraged Paul in that vision. Paul was feeling discouraged by the rejection he had faced. But his greatest partner in ministry, God himself, was right there, offering him encouragement to keep going, to keep doing what he was called to do. And he stayed and did so, until felt called to move on to a few other places at the end of his second Mission Journey.

Reading this Scripture reminded my heart of the times I have felt discouraged, rejected, and incapable. God has been my partner every single time. Sometimes it has been through his own words I have heard whispered to my soul. Other times, it has been through the words of those he has surrounded me with, encouraging me to continue my journey.

I hope this reminds you of the times God has shown up for you, to be an encouragement and a source of courage. And I pray it brings to your mind the special people he has placed in your life to partner with you... in work, in life, in ministry to others. Maybe they have even challenged you a little, or a lot?

There have been times when one of these partners in ministry have even spurred me to do things I never thought I would. To step out of my comfort zone and see what God can do. I am so grateful for this kind of ministry partner, even when the challenge is to write devotionals for the Bible in a Year plan!

The Boy Builder

One Year Bible (June 27)

2 Kings 10:32-12:21

The Boy Builder

How do you raise a “Kingly Kid”?

In your wildest dreams can you imagine a SEVEN-YEAR-OLD as king? What would he order for dinner? How long would his attention span be? What would the guard do if he was doing “spitballs” at the other visiting kings? Those are just a few random thoughts off the top of my head as I teach ten-year-olds and know their antics…Hmmm.

I guess what I am really wondering is, “How can this kid be ready to be the king?”

The “Kingly Kid” is named Joash or Jehoash of Judah. His name means, “Jehovah-given” and he ruled over Judah for 40 years. He is well-known for implementing a restoration of the temple. It is interesting to note that King Joash (Jehoash) is not mentioned in the genealogy of Jesus in the book of Matthew.

King Joash had a “Strong Start” and a “Weak Finish” as king. Does this sound familiar to anyone? When we read through 2 Chronicles 24 we will learn more details about what went “SOUTH” in his later years… He is listed under the “Good” kings of Judah because of his faithfulness to rebuilding the Temple.

What I am wondering is how does a seven-year-old have a “Strong Start” and a “Weak Finish”?

One would surely think that would be the other way around. Let’s take a closer look at the preparation of “The Mini Monarch”.

Phase One: Hide the Boy.

Following the death of Joash’s father, Ahaziah, he was spared death by his evil aunt, Athaliah, who had killed all of the offspring of Ahaziah. Joash was taken as a baby by his aunt, Jehosheba who was married to the high priest. See the connection?

Now you know why Joash was hidden in the Temple until he was seven years old. The high priest, Jehoiada not only planned security and protection for this child but they raised him and trained him to know the ways of God until it was time to present himself as king. The High Priest had access to King David’s spears and shields that were stored in the Temple and they used those for protection.

Phase Two: Build the Boy.

At age seven, Jehoiada brought out Joash, the King’s son, and placed a crown on his head. They anointed him and crowned him the 8th King of Judah! Queen Athaliah heard the clatter and hurried to the Lord’s Temple to see what was going on.

“Treason she yelled!” Those were the last words heard from her. They took her from the Temple and killed her and took Joash to the Palace to rule on the throne. The words that rang out the loudest were the voices of the people, “Long live the king!” (11:12) Since he was very young, you would think that would be the case!

How does a seven-year-old rule a kingdom? Well, not only was a crown placed on his head, but Jehoiada place a copy of God’s laws in his little hands. He was instructed in the law of the Lord. In fact, we are told that Jehoiada made a covenant between the Lord, the KIng, and the people, that they would be the Lord’s people. He also made a covenant with the new little King that the people would support the King. ( 2 Kings 11:17)

The final step to "Build the Boy" was to show him actions to back up the words of the law that he held in his little hands. “And all the people of the land went over to the temple of Baal and tore it down. They demolished the altars and smashed the idols to pieces, and they killed Mattan the priest of Baal in front of the altars.” ( 2 Kings 11:18)

You know, I strongly doubt this kingly kid was asking for ice cream and throwing spitballs in the palace. He was raised in the Temple serving God and being instructed daily by the High Priest, Jehoiada. As long as he was listening to wise advice he did very well!

Phase Three: Let him Build.

What would possess a young man to make his life’s goal to rebuild the Temple?

It is interesting that the place that “Built the Boy” will be the place that “The Boy will REBUILD”.

His upbringing was in the Temple. Who would know better the ways of the Lord than a young man who was being daily instructed by the High Priest with a calling for a greater future? He also saw the disrepair of the temple and the nation.

King Joash gave the priests the direction of “Rebuilding the Temple” but after the 23rd year of his reign, he was aware that the priests had failed to implement a restoration program. So, he added new regulations for priests and a tax system.

King Joash worked to rebuild the temple and did well while he had accountability and a powerful godly influence in his life.

Unfortunately, he went downhill when he listened to the officials of Judah’s advice rather than having the High Priest, Jehoiada, to speak into his life.

2 Chronicles 24 tells in much more detail about the downfall of King Joash’s leadership. It says that “King Joash did not remember the kindness Zechariah’s father, Hejoiada, had shown him but killed his son, who said as he lay dying, ‘May the Lord see this and call you to account’.” (2 Chronicles 24:22) The Lord did just that!!

“All his life Joash did what was pleasing in the Lord’s sight because Jehoiada the priest instructed him.

Yet, even so, he did not destroy the pagan shrines, and the people still offered sacrifices and burned incense there.” (12:2-3)

Why did this kingly kid “Start Strong” but “Finish Poorly”?

“The Boy Builder” was grounded by the Laws of God which he held in his young hands and the wise instruction that the High Priest of God poured into this life. When he got older he listened to the foolish advice of men rather than the Words of God.

Every successful builder uses a blueprint and wise advice.

Do you read the “Blueprint” daily and receive wise counsel?