Lost

ROMANS 3: 9-31 (July 16)

Have you ever felt lost in a crowd? There are people all around you and they all seem to know each other, yet you are standing on the sidelines of it all, wondering where you fit in.

I have experienced this multiple times over the past year, as I navigate through living in a new place and meeting all new people. So many times, I have longed for the sweet people I moved away from. They knew me. They understood me. I was safe and comfortable with them.

That is how the Jews and the Gentiles must have felt. They knew those who were in the same position as they were, and didn't understand the other group. In their eyes, there was no way one group could be equal to the other, yet in God's eyes, they were all the same. In God's eyes, WE are all the same.

The question we encounter in verse nine is whether or not the Jews were better than the sinful Gentiles. The answer was this ... the Jews were no better or no worse. All are sinners.

There are three main points Paul is trying to get across in this portion of his letter>

1. What happened to people who lived before Christ came and died for sin? If God condemned them, was he being unfair? If he saved them, was Christ's sacrifice unnecessary?

Paul shows that God forgave the sins of all man when Jesus died on the cross. The faithful of the Old Testament had a great anticipation of Christ's coming. Although they didn't know the name of the Messiah or the details of his earthly life, they were saved because they believed in faith. Believers of the New Testament times had the privilege of knowing specifically about Jesus and choosing to believe accordingly.

2. Why does God save us by faith alone?

Being saved by faith alone eliminates the pride of the deeds we do on earth. Faith is not a deed we do; it is an assuredness we have. Faith honors what GOD has done, not what PEOPLE do. Faith is the certainty that we cannot keep ourselves from sin, and we need help. It is based on our relationship with God, not our performance for God.

3. What is the meaning of Romans 3:31, which reads, "If we emphasize faith, does this mean that we can forget about the law? Of course Not! In fact, only when we have faith do we truly fulfill the law.

The Jewish and Gentiles Christians in Rome did not agree. The Jewish Christians were concerned that faith would wipe out all that Judaism stood for: cancelling out the scriptures, putting an end to the customs, and stating that God no longer worked through them. Paul assured them this was not the case. Faith doesn't wipe out the Old Testament. It makes God's dealings with the Jewish people even more understandable.

The next time you are feeling lost, feeling as if you don't know where you fit in, or feeling like you aren't equal to someone else, remember that in God's eyes we are all equal. We are all worthy. When we choose to believe, our faith will be our saving grace. And with that faith, we no longer have to feel LOST.

A Grander Scheme: The Pride (Part 2)

One Year Bible (July 16)

I Chronicles 22:1-23:32

A GRANDER SCHEME: “The Pride” (Part Two)

The word “Scheme” can be used in a bad way or a good way.

We will continue with the storyline found in I Chronicles 21 which we began yesterday. As we look at it closely, we will see the message unfolding here as the central focus that spills over into the rest of the book. So, we dare not miss this important message.

The definition of “Scheme’ is “a large-scale systematic plan or arrangement for attaining a particular object or idea into effect.”

In this passage, we examine the “evil scheme” behind this encounter and the “master plan” throughout this story and beyond. It will all come to light for us in some pretty amazing ways.

Yesterday, I asked you to post two words that describe the “The Master Theme” of the Bible. It is tough to use just two words to describe anything, Isn’t it? I am enjoying reading your words.

My two words would be... SINNER. SAVIOUR.

Some might say, “Salvation”, but I decided to go with “Saviour” because it is about a PERSON, God the Father, God The Son, and God the Spirit who created man in THEIR image. Three in One.

There was also a man at the fall…and death and separation. It would take one perfect sacrifice to satisfy “the wrath of God”. An animal sacrifice could not accomplish this task.

All of the pieces of the puzzle fit into One Big Puzzle. One Tapestry. One Giant Hall of Faith.

Take the genealogies, for instance, how in the world do these fit into “the bigger picture”? They are just a bunch of names, right? They showed God’s people their rights, privileges, and lineage because of their names being entered into this book.

Did you know that there will be another book that is far greater? It is called the “Lamb’s Book of Life” as is told in the book of Revelation. Jesus told his disciples, “Rejoice because your names are written in heaven.” (Luke 10:20b)

How do you feel about names being written in a book NOW?

This, my friends, is seeing the OT through NT eyes, and I Chronicles 21 offers much for us to “SEE”...

Today, we will look deeper at the first part of the GRAND SCHEME. PRIDE was the original sin and it is "still going strong today".

Isn't having "PRIDE In Yourself" a good thing? We are certainly told that in today's society. "Just believe in yourself".

The original sin was the result of choice. The angels had the choice to worship God or reject him. Satan was an angel and he chose PRIDE. He certainly did "Believe in Himself". This began his descent to the earth as a fallen being.

Adam and Eve were walking in perfect communion with their Father in the garden and they encountered the serpent.

This "fallen one from heaven" brought the choice to them as well, “Wouldn’t you want to know what God knows?”

Did he lie to them? “NO” not exactly. The Bible tells us he was “crafty”. He took the truth and twisted it.

(90 % truth, 10% lie.. That’s his M.O.)

The woman replied to him, “We may eat of the fruit of the trees in the garden, but God said, ‘You shall not eat of the fruit of the tree that is in the midst of the garden, neither shall you touch it, lest you die.” The serpent came back with, “You will not surely die. For God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.” (Gen. 3:1-6)

Next, let’s look at the story of Lucifer’s fall from heaven, “Your heart was proud because of your beauty; you corrupted your wisdom for the sake of your splendor. I cast you to the ground; I exposed you before kings, to feast their eyes on you…” (Ezekiel 28:11-19)

Satan lived in the perfection of Heaven and that was NOT enough for him. Out of pride, he wanted to be equal in power with God. Adam and Eve lived in perfect harmony and fellowship with each other, creation, and in fellowship with God in the garden, but that wasn’t enough either. They wanted to have knowledge beyond what they knew. They wanted what God had…

The original sin was PRIDE, the downfall of a perfect angel and perfect created beings.

It is interesting that ‘The Chronicler’ who is writing Chronicles completely leaves the details of David’s “adulterous sin, murder, and consequences” out of this book. Why do you think he chooses to leave this part of the story out? (Please comment below.)

Instead, he only focuses on the sin of PRIDE relating to the taking of the census. How is this "foolish decision" related to pride? I would love to hear your comments. We will talk more about this...

Before the people can open their eyes to see the “Savior” they must recognize their “Sin”. This is the beginning of ... “THE GRANDER SCHEME”.

Illogical Objection

ROMANS 2:25 - 3:8 (July 15)

I have been watching various clips of the Heard vs. Depp trial. There are many of them on social media, and whoever put them there worked really hard to make sure they were comical or proved a point. And while I think the whole thing was ridiculous, it is entertaining to watch the outtakes.

Most of them are designed to make you laugh. A few are put together in a way that seems to indicate the incompetence of Heard's team of lawyers.

In one such outtake, one of her lawyers was so fired up, he wouldn't let Depp finish a sentence on the witness stand. Every time Johnny opened his mouth, this lawyer shouted, "Objection!"

Over and over again, "Objection!" The poor witness couldn't get a word in, so he finally just had to laugh. These "objections" had no merit, no reasoning behind them. This was just one lawyer looking for a way to win an argument.

This reminds me of what Paul is describing in today's portion of Romans. There are so many Jews who had to object and argue over what the subject Paul writes about today.

Paul shares his thoughts about Jewish circumcision. This was a Jewish rite initiated by God as a sign of his covenant with Abraham. It indicated a people who would be separated from the rest of the world and drawn to God.

Paul is pointing out that this rite of circumcision is only valuable to the Jews when combined with a life of obedience. The external ceremony must be accompanied by an inward holiness, otherwise that ceremony means NOTHING! In fact, an uncircumcised Gentile who is keeping God's law is better than a circumcised Jew who does not.

And despite who is faithful or unfaithful, Jew or Gentile, God is always faithful and true to his word.

Now, this is where the OBJECTIONS come in. Because the Jews wanted to rationalize their behavior and somehow make it acceptable.

OBJECTOR: If all this is true, then what is the advantage of being a Jew?

PAUL: The Jews had some advantages over the rest of the people. After all, they had been entrusted with God's laws ... his very words. This was the race in which Jesus would come to the world. These were the people who received covenants with God himself.

Did this make them better than everyone else? Paul is stating very clearly ... No, it did not! It only made them more responsible to live life within the boundaries God required.

OBJECTOR: If not all Jews believe, will God go back on his promise? He did choose Israel as his people and made covenants with them. Can the unbelief of some cause God to break his word?

PAUL: NO WAY, JOSE! Whenever there is a question of who is right... man or God ... always go with this: God is right and man is a liar.

OBJECTOR: Then why does God condemn us? If our unrighteousness causes the righteousness of God to shine, how can he be upset with us?

PAUL: This argument isn't even worthy of my time. How could God be fit to judge the world if he had any possibility of being unrighteous? And we all know he WILL judge the world.

OBJECTOR: But if my sin brings glory to him, how can he find fault with my sin? Doesn't it make sense that if I do evil, good will come from God?

PAUL: The condemnation of people who talk like this is well-deserved.

This is an argument that is constantly going against the grace of God. People say, "If you could be saved just by faith in Christ, then you could go out and live in sin. Since God's grace covers man's sin, then the more you sin, the more his grace abounds."

Now this is JUSTIFICATION at its finest! Finding reasons for why sin is acceptable. Making it seem like sinning is good for God, bringing him glory and making his shine even more.

I find that most people who live their life using JUSTIFICATION for their actions, are living a life filled with sin. Whenever we have to look for reasons why our behavior is "okay", we can safely assume it probably isn't appropriate behavior.

A good motto to live by is if you have to justify it, just don't do it!

Illogical actions lead to illogical objections.

A Grander Scheme: The Plan (Part 1)

One Year Bible (July 15)

I Chronicles 19:1-21:30

A GRANDER SCHEME: “The Plan” (Part One)

There is a 1980 movie called, “Somewhere in Time”.

The setting for this movie was the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island. From the majestic hotel setting to the nostalgic music of another era, this show has romance, intrigue, and mystery calling the viewer to “go back in time”.

The main character, a playwright, becomes enthralled with a vintage photograph that he sees hanging on the hotel’s wall. He discovers a music box that plays his favorite musical piece, the 18th variation of ‘Rhapsody Theme of Paganini’ by Rachmaninoff.

This playwright becomes obsessed with traveling back to 1912 in order to meet the beautiful woman with whom he has “fallen in love”. What makes all this even more mysterious is the fact that this playwright, had an encounter eight years BEFORE he ever went to the Grand Hotel.

Eight years earlier, while celebrating the debut of his new play, an elderly woman (he did not know) came up to him, placed an old pocket watch in his hands, and pleads, “Come Back To Me"! The woman returns to her home and dies in her sleep that very night!

The movie marquee reads... “Somewhere in the past, he will find her…Somewhere in Time.”

These, my friends are the words that describe the journey that we are beginning in a passage that is the central focus of Chronicles. Even as the book continues to unfold with details, we are going to stay centered in chapter 21 and interpret the “GRANDER SCHEME" in light of many mysterious and intriguing details that will unfold before our very eyes.

“The Chronicler”, much like the playwright, is calling the people on behalf of God to, “Come Back To Me”!

There is a POCKET WATCH that is the Message being placed in their HANDS.

This CLOCK will remind them of their HISTORY in order for them to find their HOPE!

Their journey will take them back to view their PAST in order to see their FUTURE.

Unlike I & 11 Samuel and I & 11 Kings, this author, The Chronicler, has a different purpose. His purpose is prophetic and visionary in nature. His message of HOPE is written to people who have lost much of their past and have no vision of their future.

They are lost “SOMEWHERE IN TIME”.

“The Chronicler” will tell them of their GRAND HERITAGE with David, Solomon, and the temple as he points them to the GRAND INHERITANCE through the FUTURE MESSIAH.

To foreshadow is to give a “slight glimpse” or “sneak peek” of what is to come. It means to “foresee”, “predict”, and ‘allude” to what is to come in the future.

I invite you to read the passage of I Chronicles 21 each day as you continue through the rest of the book. Write down your questions, thoughts, and observations.

What is the “bigger picture” that is coming to light? What is hidden and what is revealed?

As we begin this journey, I want to ask you a question…

What are the TWO WORDS that tell the “GRAND THEME” of the entire Bible? (Please, drop your two words in the comments below.)

The movie, “Somewhere In Time” is certainly one of many that focus on humans traveling through time, but what about a God who ACTUALLY does JUST THAT?

“WHAT IF” there is an ACTUAL man who takes on form, space, time, and humanity so that we may truly love and be loved?

“WHAT IF” the “Mercy Seat” points us to this different time?

“WHAT IF” the genealogies, like the pictures hanging on the wall of the Grand Hotel, point God’s people to a GRANDER love that is waiting for each and every one of us?

“WHAT IF”… this glimpse into the future (foreshadowing) is filled with glimpses of GRACE and a complete LOVE?

God has answered the question of “What IF” for all of God’s people, “For HE CHOSE us IN HIM before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. IN LOVE. (Ephesians 1:4)

May we read this OT passage with NT eyes…The Chronicler is bringing out the pocket watch and placing it in the people’s hands and inviting HIS people, “Come Back to Me”.

“Somewhere In Time” is more than a movie; it is The Master Plan of God.

This, my friends, is A GRANDER SCHEME.

“May the Lord’s will be done.” ( I Chron. 20:13B)

The Weight of Judgement

ROMANS 2: 1-24 (July 14)

Judgement is a cold, hard fact of life. People judge others. People get judged by others. False assumptions can be made. Truth can be revealed.

How many times have you judged someone for gossiping, then turned around and done the same things with your girlfriends?

How often have you let your critical eye judge someone by their appearance without ever getting to know them personally?

Is it possible that you have judged someone based on hearsay and assumption, instead of based on your relationship with them?

These are all hard questions. My answer to each of them, unfortunately, is "YES and OFTEN!" How about you?

In Romans 2: 1-24, Paul is writing to the Romans on the specific topic of judgement. He is giving them an explanation of the difference between law and conscience.

The law of God is revealed in the expression of moral law. While the Old Testament gives us judicial and ceremonial laws meant for the Jews for a certain time in history, moral law is forever. It is based on the permanent relations of man in regard to marriage, sex, property, and family obedience. Translation: Moral law is the choices we make about how we behave in life. We will have these choices for as long as we live this life.

Our conscience serves as a witness to the truth, but moral choice tells whether it has been obeyed. A man's conscience accuses him of sins. If you are a believer, you should repent and confess sin, giving you the opportunity to be freed from that sin. Translation: That gut feeling you get when something might not be right, that conviction you feel, that is where the rubber meets the road, and you have to choose the RIGHT thing. If you don't make the right choice, you have the opportunity to confess that sin to God and turn away from that sin, receiving God's grace.

In this portion of Paul's letter, he is talking to the morally self-righteous, both Jew and Gentile. There is no discrimination among people as to what is morally right. These people are self-righteous because they condemn the behavior of others yet commit the same sins themselves.

They consider themselves more civilized, educated, and refined (more popular, better dressers, nicer homes and cars, and the list goes on). The problem is, they are guilty of the same sins, though they might be in a more sophisticated manner. Have you ever seen someone like this? Has this been you at some time in your past?

The simple fact that we can JUDGE others for their sins is proof that we know the difference between right and wrong. Or else how could we point it out in someone else? Is it often easier to see someone else's wrongs than your own? (Or those of someone you love?)

Paul gives us some facts about the basis of God's judgement for our sins:

1. God's judgement is based on truth. I am talking truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth!

2. God's judgement is unescapable to those who condemn others for the same sins they commit. The only way we escape this judgement is by repentance and his forgiveness.

3. The judgement of God is sometimes delayed. (Ahhhh, and you thought you got away with it!) The delay is evidence of his goodness and patience.

4. The judgement of God is graduated according to the accumulation of guilt. Have you ever heard about how you can store up treasures in heaven? Doesn't this sound like a wonderful reward for good works? Well, guess what? You can also store up judgement for yourself, and let me tell you, it won't be silver and gold!

5. The judgement of God is according to one's deeds. We will not be judged by who are ancestors are, how wealthy we are, or anything else except our own conduct.

6. The judgement of God is without respect of persons. There is no impartiality with God, no popularity contest, or best-dressed award. He looks at all of us equally.

Isn't it nice to know that there is someone who will never judge you based on how you look, what your job is, the fact that you have no career, what your talents are, what care you drive or neighborhood you live in, or what anyone else has ever said about you? (Whew! That was a long list!)

God is a God of equality and fairness. He is just and good. And even when we mess up, and mess up big, his judgement is waved if only we confess and repent (meaning we turn away from the sin, not be a repeat offender). It is when we do this that the Weight of Judgement passes us by.

The Weakest Link (Part 3)

One Year Bible (July 14)

I Chronicles 16:37-18:17

The Weakest Link (Season Three)

Perhaps you have heard the famous quote, “A chain is only as strong as its weakest link.”

Today’s lesson will remind us that “What is impossible with man is possible with God.”

His ways of operating are often in direct opposition to man’s thoughts and ways.

This is a very important principle that we need to understand so that we can comprehend how God speaks to us today…

Today, we will look at how God can “BURST THROUGH” the greatest battles we face…

Yesterday, we dealt with the difficult realization of what can happen when we try to do God’s Will through Man’s Ways.

Today, we will see how everything turns around when we yield to God’s amazing power through us.

“BURST THROUGH”--David and his enemies. (I Chronicles 14:11)

After David’s great humiliation with the “BURSTING OUT” against Uzzah and David’s leadership, we see a big turnaround.

“And David realized that the LORD had confirmed him as king over Israel and had greatly blessed his kingdom for the sake of his people Israel.” (13:2)

Following the Philistines’ Manner of handling the moving of the ARK had defeated David. The next time David goes up against the Philistines following God’s Message, “Should I go out to fight the Philistines? Will you hand them over to me?” (13:10)

Speaking of hearing God’s voice… Listen to HIS reply to David, “Yes, go ahead. I will hand them over to you.” (13:10)

“God did it! David exclaimed. He used me to BURST THROUGH my enemies like a raging flood! So, they named that place Baal-perazim (which means ‘the Lord who BURSTS ThORUGH) (13:11)

Then David burned all the idols of the Philistines. There would be no more ignorance in following their ways for David!

Listen to the result from a man who had gone from “The Weakest Link” to “The Strongest Link” in battle on this day…

“So, David’s fame spread everywhere, and the LORD CAUSED ALL THE NATIONS TO FEAR DAVID.” (13:17)

Do you remember when David was afraid of God due to his mistake?

David’s FEAR OF GOD turned into a “FEAR OF GOD’s WAYS”...

And now, God has CAUSED ALL THE NATIONS TO FEAR DAVID!

In today’s passage, found in I Chronicles 14, the Chronicler reminds the people of the favor and blessing that came upon David when he followed “In the Fear of the Lord”...

First, David found his place among the nations, “The Lord had established him as king.” (14:2)

Secondly, the Lord had blessed and increased David’s family which was a sign of fertility and blessing at that time.

Thirdly, the Philistines had been a continual threat to the nation of Israel throughout Saul’s reign and God had allowed King David to have victory over them because “David inquired of the Lord”. (14:14)

What can we learn about how God speaks and works through his servants from these three examples in our study of “The Weakest Link”?

First, God can “BURST UPON” the weakest of strongest of all warriors and turn the battle around for his people. He can also allow someone to see a person as having his blessing and calling and prompt them to support and follow. All of this was done without a word being said. That is pretty powerful!

Secondly, God can “BURST OUT” against people who operate in a religious way with passion but they aren’t following God and doing it HIS Way. He can REMOVE them as He did with Uzzah, or He can cause them to REPENT as in the case of David.

Lastly, God can “BURST THROUGH” and subdue the most difficult and powerful of your enemies. Those that ask God faithfully and seek HIS ways will hear HIS VOICE and receive HIS blessing. David’s fame came from God’s ANOINTING.

These are the lessons that ‘The Chronicler” is reminding God’s people to remember…

The world would tell that “A chain is only as strong as its weakest link.”

But God would remind us that, “A Chain is Always Strong when God is in control of the Weakest and the Strongest of Links.”

Without God, “The Strong is Weak” and with God, “The Weak is made Strong.”

“He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.” Isaiah 40:29

This, my friends, is the good news for each of us today because God specializes in “The Weakest Link”.

Breaking the Rules

ROMANS 1: 18-32 (July 13)

Not everyone is a big fan of rules. Take my children for example ... they let me know time and time again just how much they DON'T like my rules.

My explanation to them ... I am sorry about that, but it is my job as your parent to guide you, teach you, and make sure you are learning how to live a life that is pleasing to God.

I also remind them that I love them, and that is WHY I give them rules. It is my responsibility as a loving mama to do so.

One of my older boys told me some years back, after he had been living on his own for some time, that he appreciated my rules in retrospect. He said he didn't particularly like the rules of my household, but the boundaries I set for him made him feel safe.

To me, that was a compliment. It made me feel like I had done a decent job.

As Paul continues this letter to the Romans, he is describing to them about all the people who have been breaking the rules that God put in place.

Their behavior gives us the explanation we need for WHY we need the gospel. We are simply lost without it. We get a clear view of how the wrath of God comes down from heaven against the wickedness of our sinful lives.

How does God show his wrath? Some of the examples used in this letter are:

1. He gives men over to uncleanliness

2. He gives them over to their vile affections

3. He gives them over to their sinful minds

In extreme cases, we have seen where he breaks through into our history when he is extremely displeased at our sin, such as the flood (Gen. 7), the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah (Gen. 19), and the punishment of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram (Num. 16:32)

The greatest question for Paul seems to be how they could deny the truth when it is so obvious all around them. We see the earth and sky, created by him and proof of his presence. Through all he has made we get the chance to see his invisible qualities, his eternal power and divine nature. So how could you NOT know God?

And if you KNOW God, how can you not WORSHIP him? These sinful people of history knew God, but they let their minds take them to a place where they created a new image of what he was like, and this made them very confused. (I see the enemy at work here, just like he is with us today.)

Instead of worshiping God, the made idols out of the things he had created (people, birds, animals, reptiles.). They carried out the sins of their hearts, even the sexual sins they knew to be shameful.

When my kids don't listen to me after I have told them time and time again, I sometimes let them go ahead and make their mistake so they can learn from it. God did the same thing. After they repeatedly sinned against him, he abandoned them to all their shame and desires.

It was kind of like this: If you think I am foolish, then I will leave you to your foolish thinking. Enough is enough!

Sometimes, as moms we just get enough. We lose our patience and get frustrated by the lack of obedience in our children. The same is true for that ultimate parent, our Father in Heaven. He'd had enough, so he left them to their own sins and consequences. He was tired of them Breaking the Rules.

The Weakest Link (Part 2)

One Year Bible (July 13)

I Chronicles 15:1-16:36

The Weakest Link (SEASON TWO)

They compare this TV game show to a surreal and humiliating blend of “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire” and “Survivor”. The contestants will be pitted against each other to see who will be left standing.

Today’s passage will show us exactly that, “Who will be left standing?” What will give them the strength to stand against vast enemies, and what will be learned from the failure of defeat…

Yesterday we saw the Spirit “BURST UPON” (Enveloped. Clothed. Or Empowered) Amasai and the Thirty Mighty Men to follow God’s plan and to see God’s hand on David. Without a word being spoken by God to these men, He enveloped them to see God at work in David and follow him. That is one powerful way of speaking without a word being spoken.

Next, we saw that God “BURST OUT” at Uzzah with the handling and touching of the Ark of the Covenant. Today’s passage tells us more that David learned about his failure in leadership and Uzzah’s failure in follow-through…

We were told that David was angry with God, and God was angry with Uzzah. Next, we learned that David was now afraid of the Lord!

The words used, “BURST OUT” means “broken forth” and “Broken through Breach”. The place was forever called, “Perez-Uzzah” meaning “Against Uzzah”.

The problem was that David was PASSIONATE about BRINGING the Ark of the Covenant home to ‘The City of David” but not following God’s PRESCRIPTION for how to TRANSPORT the Ark.

David was dealing with ELECTRICITY beyond his wildest dreams. Yet, he was not an electrician and had overlooked consulting one!

Only the Levites were to carry it and only by using the poles inserted through rings in its side, (See Exod. 25:12; 37:3-5; Deut. 10:8) Instead he was transporting it by using the Philistines’ method of using a new cart pulled by oxen. The Philistines IGNORANCE was far removed from God’s INSTRUCTIONS!

What did the Philistines know of the Word of God, and why was David following their lead?

In David’s Passion, he had forgotten all about consulting God’s Plan!

Uzzah was the “Lightning Rod” who tapped into a power that he knew very little about!!

Today’s passage sheds light on what David learned from this colossal failure, “Because you Levites did not carry the Ark the first time, the anger of the LORD our God “BURST OUT” against us. We failed to ask God how to move it properly. So the priests and the Levites PURIFIED themselves in order to bring the Ark of the LORD the God of Israel, to Jerusalem. Then the Levites carried the Ark of God on their shoulders with its carrying poles, just as the LORD had instructed Moses.” (I Chronicles 15: 13-15)

This passage is a “Show Stopper” and should give us a Big Pause as we reflect on what God is saying and doing here! It is severe, drastic, and disturbing!

Did God want the ARK of His presence to come home to “The City of David”? Absolutely! However, it was to come home according to God’s Plan and not by Man’s Passion.

David learned this lesson, the first time they proceeded without “PURIFYING” themselves. They came in their own passion and power. The next time they came to God on God’s terms and PURIFIED themselves and followed HIS PLANS!

How does God’s Word in this matter of Uzzah and the “OUTBURST” of God speak to us today?

This principle is as valid and concerning to us today as it was in the days of David.

We have many who preach, “Whosoever Will May Come”. Is this passage in the Bible? It certainly is! (Rev. 22:17)

However, it is connected to a ‘means, a way, and a plan”. That means is God’s way, not man’s way!

Look at the rest of the story, Jesus answered, “I am the WAY and the TRUTH and the LIFE, no one comes to the Father except through ME.” (John 14:6)

Many today are speaking for God and changing HIS Plan but God is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow! His Word, Ways, and Will stand throughout all time!

I don’t know about you, but I don’t want a place named for me because God is angry because I “Breached His Commandments”.

Listen to His words to us today, “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord, will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles? Then, I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!” (Matthew 7:21-21)

What a dreadful day it would be to hear, “You are the weakest link. Goodbye."

Good News

ROMANS 1: 1-17 (July 12)

"EXTRA, EXTRA...READ ALL ABOUT IT!" Newspapers have been around for quite some time. I remember fondly, back in my younger years, when I had a weekly column in the local newspaper. My column revolved around the happenings in town ... meetings, birthday parties, special events, holiday events ...I reported on them all.

America's first continuously published newspaper was the Boston News-Letter. The first issue was published on April 24, 1704 by editor John Campbell, who was a bookseller and the postmaster of Boston. That was 100 years after the first newspaper ever published. Johann Carolus published the first newspaper in 1604 in Germany.

Not sure why I thought you needed this information, but there is your daily dose of "learning something new."

In Paul's time, there were no newsletters. Paul traveled to preach and teach, spreading the Good News wherever he went. But he also used another means to share his heart for the gospel with others ... he wrote letters.

As we open in the book of Romans today, we see the beginning of one of his most famous letters, written to the Roman church. It makes sense that the Epistle section of the New Testament begins with this letter, since Acts ends with Paul arriving in Rome. He is writing this letter before he visits the Christians there.

A newspaper has many sections. Maybe you want to read current events. Perhaps you prefer the comics section. It could be that you would rather look at the sales ads or real estate listings, while someone else might prefer the sports section. This letter is a classic. and there is literally something for everyone.

If you are looking in the unsaved section, it brings hope God's plan of salvation and freedom from their sin. If the new believers section is your section of choice, it gives insight to their identification with Christ and victory through the power of the Holy Spirit. In the Mature believers section, you will delight in the wide spectrum of biblical truth.

Paul begins his letter calling himself a bondservant (slave) of Christ Jesus. He explains to the readers that God has purposed his life in such a way that he is to preach the Good News. The Good News is all about Jesus: his lineage, his birth, his life, his death, his resurrection, his grace, and his power.

Paul explains that it is the power of the Holy Spirit which allows him to share this Good News with the Gentiles, letting them know what God has done for them in the hopes they will believe and bring glory to his name.

He states his thankfulness that these believers are spreading the Good News all around the world. He tells of the frequency of his prayers for them and his hopes to someday meet with them. He wants to meet them, not only to encourage them, but to be encouraged by them.

Paul writes with no shame for the Good News. As Paul explains, it is this Good News that shows the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes, Jews and Gentiles. He is proud of being able to share that it is through faith that a righteous person has life.

This is his first mention of righteousness. What exactly does he mean? Here are three uses of the word to consider:

1. The characteristic of God by which he always does what is right, just, proper, and consistent with all his other attributes. There is no wrong, dishonesty, or unfairness in God.

2. His method of justifying ungodly sinners. He can do this and still be righteous because the sacrifice of Jesus paid the price for any divine justice.

3. The perfect standing which God provides for those who believe on his son.

Any of these could apply to his words, though it is most likely he was describing #2.

These are the first 17 verses of a lengthy letter. We will continue on tomorrow with the wise words of Paul as he works diligently, using his writing skills to bring the Romans the most important "EXTRA, EXTRA" of their lives ... the Good News.

The Weakest Link (Part 1)

One Year Bible (July 12)

I Chronicles 12:19-14:17

The Weakest Link (Part One)

There is a game show by this name that leaves only one champion standing to take home $1 Million if they escape hearing the famous last word, “You are the weakest link. Goodbye.”

How humiliating it would be to appear on national television with all your friends and family watching, and hear those sad words.

Unfortunately, there is a man named Uzzah, who basically gets those exact words delivered to him in action from the living God. This encounter is startling and worthy of us stopping to look at how God speaks to us through his sovereignty.

Recently, I had an interesting question from a dear sister in the Lord who asked me, “How can we know when God is speaking?

Is it audible?”

Great question, isn’t it?

I pointed her toward all the varieties of ways we have seen God act, speak, and perform miracles in our short time together in “The One Year Bible”.

What are some of the memorable moments that stick out in your mind?

We can learn God’s voice by observing his Words, Ways, and Will…

There has been a word in our reading for today that just jumped off the page at me. The word is “BURST”.

The HOLY SPIRIT is the one that causes the WORD OF GOD to come alive or "BURST" as we read it.

So, I started researching the word, “BURST” as it captured my attention. I found some exciting things that answer our questions about how, why, and when God works.

In today’s readings, we see three different instances where God “BURSTS” into man’s lives in a way that they knew it was HIM, responded to HIM, and their lives were changed...

Today, we will look at, “BURST UPON” with Amasai, and “BURST OUT” with Uzzah. Tomorrow we will look at "BURST THROUGH".

God is mightily at work in all of these situations yet the outcomes are very different!

What do these encounters look like in our text and how do they fit into the bigger picture of what God tells us about himself in the Bible? These are some pretty big questions, aren’t they?

“BURST UPON”-- With Amasai and David. (I Chronicles 12:18)

In our first example, we meet “the leader of the Thirty”, and his name is Amasai. “The Thirty” were Mighty Warriors (army commanders) from Gad.

Here is what we are told about them, “The weakest among them could take on a HUNDRED regular troops.” (12: 24) One man versus 100.

(He is a pretty strong guy and he is the WEAKEST LINK!)

What about the STRONGEST LINK? (“The STRONGEST could take on a THOUSAND”.)

This is like an episode of a MARVEL because these guys were TRUE MARVELS!

David is coming up against them and doesn’t know if they will be FOR him or AGAINST him. (Nerve-Wracking!)

How does God handle these superheroes... Lightening? Zap Machines?

“Then the Spirit CAME UPON Amasai, the leader of the Thirty, and he said, “We are yours, David! We are on your side, son of Jesse. Peace and prosperity be with you, and success to all who help you, for your God is the one who helps you.” (12:18)

How is God’s power described and encountered in this passage?

The word “Spirit CAME UPON is also translated as, “Enveloped. Clothed. Empowered.”

God’s BURST of POWER “TOOK CONTROL of him” through the Holy Spirit.

There was a student who came into my classroom one day with bright fluorescent HOT PINK hair. (This is one of the things I love about my job; it is NEVER boring!)

The difficulty came in the fact that his hair coloring was ‘new, fresh, and not of the permanent variety”. It was dripping down his face from the minute he got there. Not only that but his fingers, papers, and my grey bean bag chair were “BURSTING” with a fluorescent FLOW.

This situation intensified when we went out to recess and he encountered two factors, light and heat! When we came back in the “PINK INK” was everywhere except on his hair! I will never forget the looks on the students’ faces. One sweet girl said, “Teacher, he’s melting!...”

Like my student’s hair, even the strongest of David’s rival warriors were “PINK PUDDY” in God’s hands! Without a word being spoken HIS “Light & Heat” changed everything!

“BURST OUT”--Against Uzzah (I Chronicles 13:11)

Next, we see Uzzah who merely reached out his hand to catch the Ark of the Convenient while it was being transported by David to bring it home.

King Saul had neglected the Ark and David wanted to honor God and bring it home. He was worshipping and praising God with all the instruments and singers when “WHAM! BAMN”, Uzzah had an encounter with “The Light” and he became quite COMBUSTIBLE.

(Like the pink fluorescent hair on steroids!)

This brings up another question that we may have concerning God and the way He communicates with us.

Are we sometimes afraid to pray because God might just “shine his bright light on our pink hair and we will COMBUST also?

Something had gone terribly wrong for David and ultimately took Uzzah’s life. In tomorrow’s passage, we will learn more about what David learned from this colossal failure in leadership.

Today’s story reminds me of my student with pink dyed hair… He was so excited and passionate until the pink all came running down his eyes… He obviously hadn’t noticed the instructions…

Unfortunately, King David didn’t either, and his servant came in contact with the strongest Force of Light in the world, The Living God…

I can just hear some little girl speaking up to David as well, “Teacher, He’s Melting!”

You see, our God can make the “Weakest Strong” and the “Strongest Weak” and on this day David was humiliated before the people as Uzzah was annihilated.

This was no game show, but it was quite a spectacle.

The words were inaudible but everyone knew what they were, “You are the weakest link. Goodbye."

Welcome to Rome

ACTS 28: 1-31 (July 11)

Today we resume where the boat landed on Gilligan's Island (I mean, Malta). This was no "3-hour tour" gone awry. This was the result of weeks at sea. There was no Ginger or Maryann, but the people of the island greeted them warmly (with a fire).

Paul was adding sticks to the fire when a poisonous snake bit his hand. As the snake hung from his hand, the people watched and said amongst themselves, "A murderer, no doubt! Though he escaped the sea, justice will not permit him to live."

Paul just shook that snake right off his hand and into the fire, with no swelling, bleeding, or pain to follow. After realizing there was no injury to Paul, the people changed their tune and decided he was a God. (Obviously the Professor wasn't on board, or he would have logically explained this situation.)

The chief official of the island lived on an estate near where the group came ashore. He was a Gentile by the name of Publius. They stayed with him for three days, and he was a good host. During that time, his father became ill. Paul prayed with him and layed his hands on him, and "TA-DA!" ... the man was healed!

Now what do you think happened next? Yep! When everyone heard about that healing, they brought other sick people to be healed. For the next three months, Paul healed the sick, and grew in popularity with the people. They showered him with gifts ... everything they would need for the rest of the trip.

Another ship, an Alexandrian ship, had spent the winter there and was ready to set sail. This ship had the Twin Brothers, Castor and Pollux, as its figurehead. Now, if you don't know much about Castor and Pollux, they were twin half-brothers in Greek and Roman mythology. They had the same mother (Leda), yet different fathers. Tyndareus (King of Sparta) was the father of Castor and Zeus-Jupiter was the father of Pollux.

These twin half-brothers were a result of heteropaternal superfecundation. WHAT???? Let me explain ... this is the term used for the fertilization of two or more ova from the same cycle by sperm from separate acts of intercourse, which leads to twin babies from two separate biological fathers. (You are welcome for today's education!!) I'm not quite sure what my thoughts are about Leda at the moment ... I'll let you draw your own conclusions.

After a few stops aboard the ship, they landed in Puteoli. There were believers there that invited them to spend the week with them. Other brothers and sisters in Rome heard about their arrival and met them at the Forum, while others joined them at The Three Taverns.

The Forum was at the center of the ancient city of Rome and the location of important religious, political, and social activities. (No NBA basketball games there). For centuries it was the site of triumphal processions and elections, public speeches, criminal trials, and gladiatorial matches. It's ruins still stand today.

The Three Taverns was a place on the ancient Appian Way about 31 miles from Rome. It was designed for the reception of travelers. By seeing the show of respect from these believers in meeting him there, Paul was greatly encouraged.

Arriving in Rome, Paul was allowed to rent his own cottage, guarded by a soldier. After three days, he called the local Jewish leaders together and gave them a recap of why he was there, what he had been accused of, what his beliefs were, and spoke of his innocence.

The leaders were curious to hear his beliefs because the only thing they knew about what he was teaching was that it was denounced everywhere. And we know Paul...he was happy to oblige.

From morning to evening he spoke to them about Jesus, using Scripture, the law of Moses, and the books of the prophets to persuade them. Some were persuaded. Others were not. They argued back and forth and finally left with this final word from Paul:

"The Holy Spirit was right when he said to your ancestors through Isaiah the prophet, "Go and say to this people: When you hear what I say, you will not understand. When you see what I do, you will not comprehend. For the hearts of these people are hardened, and their ears cannot hear, and they have closed their eyes - so their eyes cannot see, and their ears cannot hear, and their hearts cannot understand, and they cannot turn to me and let me heal them.'"

Paul lived in Rome, paying his own way, for the next two years. He welcomed anyone who wanted to visit. He continued to boldly proclaim the Kingdom of God and teach about the Lord Jesus Christ with no rebuttal from anyone.

It was during this time he wrote his Prison Letters, the letters to the Ephesians, Colossians, and Philippians. After the two years had passed (the time in which they could hold him), he was released. It is believed that he wrote 1 Timonthy and Titus while traveling to Spain and many other places during his fourth mission, which would be the last taste of freedom for Paul.

Paul's life was no "3-hour tour". He didn't wash ashore with some beautiful ladies, an elderly couple, and a really smart guy. There were no comical activities, or silly circumstances for him to get himself out of.

His life was serious, it was scary, and it was very purposefully focused on Jesus. He was bold in his convictions and true to his calling. Just reading through the book of Acts makes me want to be more like him.

How true to our calling are we when adversity comes our way? When people mock us? When death stares us in the face?

May we all live boldly in our faith, proclaiming it whenever we can, and walking in the assurance that no matter what life brings us, we walk with the King of Kings.

The People’s Choice

One Year Bible (July 11)

I Chronicles 11:1-12:18

The People’s Choice

The people have spoken and the nominees for the greatest influence in Israel’s History are…

(Music Builds… Break away to commercial.)

Before we announce our Post-Exile PCA awards, we would like to take time to recognize all of our sponsors and those returning to our homeland for a brighter future…

(Break-a-way to a NINE CHAPTER GENEOLOGY INFORMATIONAL of those returning from Babylonian Exile.)

Today our PCA awards would like to give you a little introduction to the book of I Chronicles. It is a little confusing as it begins with NINE (Yes, NINE!) long chapters of genealogy. These are the lists of the people who are the lineage of God’s people, and those that are returning home from exile.

Now, as we get ready to begin tonight’s award ceremony, (Ch 9) we need to realize that 'the Chronicler' is looking BACK before their time in EXILE.

To remember WHERE they came from…

WHAT happened that took them into exile…

And HOW they needed to proceed to once again be God’s Chosen People (GCP).

(So, this is the PCA’S for the GCP’S! Got it?)

Our FIRST AWARD chosen by 'the Chronicler' and the people is… Drumroll, please!

For the Category of MADNESS & MOCKERY… King Saul!

The people said to Samuel, “You are old, and your sons do not walk in your ways, now appoint a king to lead us, such as all the other nations have.” (I Samuel 8:1)

The book of I Samuel spends much time on the life of Saul. However, I Chronicles’ purpose is to remind, “Out with the Old” and “In with the New”.

So, he is reminding them that it was “The People’s Choice” to cry out for a king other than their God.

"Not-Sorry-Saul" is remembered for his Madness, Melancholy, Mediums, and Mockery.

When Goliath threatened the nation, Saul did NOTHING! NADA! He definitely wins the “ZIP AWARD” as well!

God brought in a young boy with a slingshot to take the giant down! Saul disobeyed the Lord and in his insecurity and pride turned against God. He tried repeatedly to kill the Lord’s anointed. He then consulted a medium rather than turning to God! ( I Chronicles 10:8-14)

When Saul LEFT GOD, GOD LEFT SAUL!

He also gave him over to be tormented by evil spirits. Saul had made a MOCKERY of God in his service as king, and the Philistines made a MOCKERY of Saul by cutting off his head and putting it on the temple god, “Dagon”. I Chronicles 10:10)

The Chronicler is reminding the people, “Dagone! That was a BAD mistake!!”

I guess you could say that "Not-Sorry-Saul" got the “DAGONE WORST AWARD” of the evening!

Lots of BLING, but it doesn’t mean a THING!”

Our Second Award for the category of MIGHTY WARRIOR goes to… King David!

David was also “The People’s Choice” but he rose to that position through Adversity and God’s Anointing. That, my friends, is a HUGE difference!

“Then all Israel gathered before David at Hebron and told him, ‘We are your own flesh and blood. In the past, even when Saul was king, you were the one who really led the forces of Israel,. And the Lord your God told you, ‘You will be the shepherd of my people Israel. You will be the leader of my people Israel’ So, there at Hebron, David made a covenant before the LORD with all the elders of Israel.” (I Chronicles 11: 1-3)

“And David became more and more powerful because the LORD of Heaven’s Armies was with him.” (I Chronicles 11:9)

Yes, our Second Award goes to the MIGHTY WARRIOR who reminds us of our victories in God, “So the LORD saved them by giving them a great victory!” ( I Chronicles 11:14)

Our Third Award for the category of Majestic Temples… King Solomon!

The Chronicler will tell us more important details about how Solomon’s father, David, prepared the way for the temple, and 2 Chronicles will focus on the blessing of God’s people through Solomon and the Temple.

Accepting the awards Posthumously (after their death) will be ALL the people returning from EXILE.

This is a solemn time for the people to Remember, Repent, and Rebuild their NEW HOME!

(Oh my, there is quite a commotion going on tonight amongst the people! What are they doing? Let’s listen in. Someone is reading out loud and it appears that they are pouring water!)

“Oh, how I would love some of that good water from the well by the gate in Bethlehem.”

(Yes, those were the very words of David when his three mighty men risked their lives to cross the enemy lines to get him a drink of fresh water. I Chronicles 11:17-19)

“But David refused to drink it. Instead, he poured it out as an offering to the LORD. ‘God forbid that I should drink this!... This water is as PRECIOUS AS THE BLOOD OF THESE MEN WHO RISKED THEIR LIVES TO BRING IT TO ME’!”

Yes, “The People’s Choice Awards” had done just want The Chronicler had hoped they would do… He must have sat back in his chair with a deep sigh…The thirsty people were now aware of the great gifts already given to them. How could they take them for granted?

The awards would not be trophies, yet their names were written on these tablets. With this gift, they would be able to have land and privileges and begin their journey to a new life.

In these books, they would find his gift of heritage, humility, and hope.

His gift to them was written in his books, I and 11 Chronicles that was filled with healing and hope. He prayed for God’s people that they might once again…

Remember, Repent, and Rebuild!

Thank you for attending tonight's AWARDS and ADMONITIONS.

As you drive home, please be mindful when it comes to “The People’s Choice”!

Washed Ashore

ACTS 27: 21-44 (July 10)

We continue our Titanic saga today; not with Jack, Rose, and Captain Smith, but with Paul, Luke and the other 274 people on board the ship sailing for Italy.

They were still fighting the northeaster and no one had taken any time to eat. Paul called them all together for an "I told you so" moment. He had previously warned them about setting off in the winds.

He also encouraged them with the following words, "For last night an angel of the God to whom I belong and whom I serve stood beside me, and he said, "Don't be afraid, Paul, for you will surely stand trial before Caesar! What's more, God in his goodness has granted safety to everyone sailing with you.' So take courage! For I believe God. It will be just as he said. But we will be shipwrecked on an island."

On the fourteenth night of this battle, the sailors sensed land was near and measured the water. They feared they would be driven against the rocks along the shoreline, so they threw out four anchors from the back of the ship and prayed for daylight.

Right about the time the sun was coming up, Paul got them all to eat something. He assured them, again, that they would not drown. After eating, the crew threw the rest of the cargo of wheat overboard.

They had no idea where they were, but they were at a bay with a beach. They cut off the anchors, lowered the rudders, raised the foresail, and headed towards shore, trying to run the ship aground.

But then they hit something. Not an iceberg like our other famous ship, but a shoal, which ran the ship aground too soon. The bow stuck fast while the stern was smashed over and over again by the forceful waves until it started breaking apart. (Now this is a scene from the movie that I will never forget!)

What to do with the prisoners? That was a BIG QUESTION! They thought about killing them so they wouldn't escape, but the commander did not want to kill Paul, so he blocked that plan. (I remember when they fiancée tried to kill Jack as part of his plan to get Rose back. The plan didn't work for him either.)

The commander ordered all who could swim to jump ship and swim for land. The rest held on to planks or debris from the broken ship and everyone made it safely to shore. (If you will remember in the Titanic movie, many held on to whatever they could find to keep them afloat in the icy water until they could be rescued. But very few made it back to shore. Most lives were lost at sea.)

These men were washed ashore, and I have a feeling they aren't out of the woods yet!

Risky Business

One Year Bible (July 10)

I Chronicles 7:1-8:40

Risky Business

One of my favorite movies of all time is “The Preacher’s Wife”. It is a remake of the classic, “The Bishop’s Wife”. Whitney Houston is “The Preacher’s Wife” and the vocalist in this movie. Need I say more?

This woman can sing like an angel! Speaking of angels, her husband, the pastor, prayed on one of his lowest days, “Lord, if you’re really up there I need some help.” Yikes! He sounds a little lacking in faith!

In answer to his prayer, the Lord sent a very handsome angel (a young Denzel Washington) to assist this struggling church, preacher, and his wife. The problem is that the angel almost missed his holy calling when he fell for The Preacher’s Wife and her angelic voice.

Between the snow, the music, the inspiration, and the lessons learned this is just one of my favorite movies… EVER!

You see, I have a soft spot for those called into ministry.

Both of my grandfathers, my father, and my husband have spent their lifetime in ministry.

When my mother was a young girl, their little church was building a new church building site. She and all her siblings were there for this big day with the other families. They were “blasting some stumps from trees” to clear the land. One of the stumps went up in the air and killed her sister. I can’t begin to imagine how they dealt with all of that.

My Preaching grandpa, on my dad’s side, was as lively as he could be. He used to tell me stories and make his “teeth pop out” when he got to the scary parts! (I can’t imagine if he did that in his sermons.) He had a beautiful singing voice as well. I can remember him telling us how he just wanted to “Go when it was his time” serving the Lord. He actually did have a heart attack while he was preaching one Sunday…But, he lived to tell about that one.

I have learned as a child, an adult, and as a pastor’s wife, that ministry is a…

RISKY BUSINESS!

Ever heard the phrase, “Man of the Cloth”?

This phrase was applied to priests and clergy quite some time ago and the phrase “Stuck”. They were known for the robes they wore, but do you know what trials they faced?

Do you wonder what their work was like? They are one of the central focuses in our reading from yesterday and today. ..

“The people of Judah were exiled to Babylon because they were unfaithful to the LORD. The first of the exiles to return to their property in their former towns were priests, Levites, Temple servants, and other Israelites…” (I Chronicles 9:1-3)

First, we see that they were the first to return from exile. It was their role and function to help the people to settle in as a nation to worship God. All of those displaced people would need their help. (I Chronicles 9:1-2)

Secondly, the Levites were not given their own land. They were to be the Holy priests and overseers of the tabernacle, the Temple, and of the “Cities of Refuge”. ( I Chronicles 5:54ff)

Do you know what that means? The Mosaic Law commanded that anyone that committed murder was to be put to death, (Exodus 21:14) and retribution was part of their culture in that day and time.

If someone accidentally killed someone they could live in the “City of Refuge” which was overseen by the Levites.

Thirdly, they were to take care of all of the tasks pertaining to the Temple, celebrations, burnt offerings, the altar of incense, and making atonement for the people. They were to do everything that Moses commanded them to do.

Lastly, they were very close to the presence of God which could be life-changing or life-threatening.

Can you imagine being in church the day that Ananias and Sapphira came in with their gifs?

Well, there were some Old Testament days that rivaled that very thing!

The day the priests dropped dead had to be a showstopper for all the people and the High Priest! Aaron, who is mentioned in our passage is there with his two sons, Nadab and Abihu.

Directly after the ceremonial consecration of the priests, the boys mixed up a little batch of fire with incense in the priestly pans. But something went terribly wrong. Moses just tells us that it was “unauthorized worship”.

Did they unlawfully enter the Holy of Holies? Were they drunk? Careless? All, we know is that Aaron was stunned and lost his sons!

Leviticus 10:3 tells us that Aaron “held his peace”. He knew. We do not…

The prophets of God took the message of God “to the people”. Many times they were killed when the news they were given to deliver went against what the king wanted to hear.

Why do you think Jonah was willing to skip town and take a ride in the big ol’ fish? You knew something fishy was up!

The priest and Levites brought the people “to God”. and that was like placing gasoline near a raging fire. His power was nothing to mess with!

On the other hand, the people were nothing to mess with either. The priests, Levites, and prophets were to take a sinful people and lead them to the throne room of God. That is a dangerous mission. Many have paid the price for speaking the words of God to deaf people!

When I read their names in the genealogies I stop and pray. As the people of that day needed to return to God after their exile, we are mindful that our nation has lost its footing as well...

Do you remember the preacher’s prayer in the movie?

“Lord, we need some help down here!”...AMEN…It’s Risky Business!

A Nautical Nightmare

ACTS 27:1-20 (July 9)

Have you ever watched the movie Titanic? I have watched it several times. And while most of us watch it for the incredible love story, the ugly villain, and the dangerous situation, I have noticed another storyline that runs along the edges of the film.

Captain Edward Smith (played by Bernard Hill) is happy with the way the ship is performing. He sits and talks with one of the major investors of the ship, and they are discussing the time it will take to reach their destination. This investor would really like to make headlines. The more fame ... the more passengers. The more passengers ... the more money.

He asks Captain Smith to "crank it up a notch", "put the pedal to the metal", or "let 'er rip". In other words, GO FASTER!!! (When I was a little girl, I used to ride on the motorcycle with my dad. He would laugh because all I would say is "Faster Daddy, faster!"

Captain Smith doesn't think this is a good idea. Why push it when things are going well? He argues against increasing the speed of the ship, but the investor (wish I could remember his name) insists. It's all about the headlines for him.

Captain Smith orders the speed increased. And we all know what happens next. They spot an iceberg (at the last moment) and are going too fast to get the ship turned around in time. And the rest, as they say, is history.

There is another little piece of history we might never have heard of if Paul was not on board. This thrilling story of the apostles' journey from Caesarea to Malta, on the way to Rome is recorded in Acts, but only because of who was on board.

Paul, Luke, and some others set sail for Italy, supervised by a captain of the Imperial Regiment of the Roman army whose name was Julius. The next day they docked at Sidon, and Julius showed much respect and kindness to Paul by letting him go ashore to visit with friends and get what he needed. When they set sea again, they encountered some strong winds that made it difficult to keep the ship on course. Because of this, they sailed north until they landed at Myra, where the commanding officer found an Egyptian ship bound for Italy. So aboard the ship they went.

It was several days of slow sailing due to the high winds. They finally struggled along until they arrived at Fair Havens. It was late into the fall season, and not a typical time for sailing because of the weather.

Here is where the scene from Titanic comes into play. Paul (playing the part of Captain Smith) warns the officer that it is not safe to continue on in this weather. They could be shipwrecked, lose cargo, or even drown at sea. (Now this would have been enough to stop me in my tracks!)

The officer consults with the captain (playing the part of the investor) who convinces him it is okay to continue on. The crew didn't want to be stuck at Fair Havens because it was an exposed harbor and not a good place to spend the winter. They were trying to make it to Phoenix, which was a better place to stay.

So, they didn't listen to Pau's warning, and set sail again. They didn't encounter an iceberg, but what they did encounter was a northeaster, also known as a Euroclydon. And this bugger tossed them around so terribly. I can envision it now (after watching many episodes of The Deadliest Catch).

Trying to survive, the hoisted the lifeboat that was being towed behind on board. They bound ropes around the hull of the ship to strengthen it. They lowered the sea anchor to slow the ship. But nothing was working.

The next day, the gale-force winds continued to batter the ship. The crew threw the cargo overboard, and then even threw some of the ship's gear. But the storm raged on, blotting out the sun and stars.

It is interesting to note that in those days, ships had no compasses. The crew depended on the stars to navigate. And when they had weather like this, it was almost impossible to know where you were sailing.

So not only are they being tossed about, they are also confused, with no idea which direction to go. This had to be terrifying!

But the story isn't over yet. The Nautical Nightmare will continue tomorrow as we see what happens next.

He Knows My Name

One Year Bible (July 9)

I Chronicles 7:1-8:40

“He Knows My Name”

“Spent today in a conversation. In the mirror face to face with somebody less than perfect. I wouldn’t choose me first if I was looking for a champion.” (He Knows My Name, Francesca Battistelli)

The opening lyrics to this song bring up a very good point for us to consider. How does God look through that long list of names and pick a champion to serve him?

What does it take to be “In God’s favor” or “Out of God’s Favor”?

Yesterday, we looked at the story of Jabez and how he was blessed because of his prayer in seeking God, “Oh, that you would bless me and expand my territory! Please, be with me in all that I do, and keep me from all trouble and pain! (4:10)

Let’s pick up our story today in I Chronicles 5:1-26. We see the name Reuben, Jacob’s firstborn son. While Jabez was honored and blessed, we read that Jacob was passed over and his birthright was given to his younger brother, Joseph. For this reason, Reuben’s name is not listed in the genealogical records as the firstborn son.

Why did he miss the blessing?

“But since he dishonored his father by sleeping with one of his father’s concubines, his birthright was given to the sons of his brother Joseph.” (5:1) Reuben, like Esau traded his birthright for his physical appetites rather than his spiritual heritage (Gen. 25:32)

Their actions forever would affect their name as well as their destiny and direction. Reuben and Esau would forever be remembered as the sons that lost the blessing of being the firstborn.

In our today's reading, we saw more examples of what God is looking for in a person that he chooses to bless.

What king would be blessed and what nation would win in a war? Does God have a role in all of this? Most definitely!

Let’s look at a couple of important details concerning this principle in I Chronicles 5-6.

“They cried out to God during the battle, and he answee Hagrites were killed in the battle because God was fighting AGAINST them.” (5:22)

What do you think that means as we are talking aboOne Year Bible (July 9)

I Chronicles 7:1-8:40

“He Knows My Name”

“Spent today in a conversation. In the mirror face to face with somebody less than perfect. I wouldn’t choose me first if I was looking for a champion.” (He Knows My Name, Francesca Battistelli)

The opening lyrics to this song bring up a very good point for us to consider. How does God look through that long list of names and pick a champion to serve him?

What does it take to be “In God’s favor” or “Out of God’s Favor”?

Yesterday, we looked at the story of Jabez and how he was blessed because of his prayer in seeking God, “Oh, that you would bless me and expand my territory! Please, be with me in all that I do, and keep me from all trouble and pain! (4:10)

Let’s pick up our story today in I Chronicles 5:1-26. We see the name Reuben, Jacob’s firstborn son. While Jabez was honored and blessed, we read that Jacob was passed over and his birthright was given to his younger brother, Joseph. For this reason, Reuben’s name is not listed in the genealogical records as the firstborn son.

Why did he miss the blessing?

“But since he dishonored his father by sleeping with one of his father’s concubines, his birthright was given to the sons of his brother Joseph.” (5:1) Reuben, like Esau traded his birthright for his physical appetites rather than his spiritual heritage (Gen. 25:32)

Their actions forever would affect their name as well as their destiny and direction. Reuben and Esau would forever be remembered as the sons that lost the blessing of being the firstborn.

In our today's reading, we saw more examples of what God is looking for in a person that he chooses to bless.

What king would be blessed and what nation would win in a war? Does God have a role in all of this? Most definitely!

Let’s look at a couple of important details concerning tut the sovereignty of God?

Was HE out there swinging a sword? Does HE even need to pick up a sword?

Now the same passage is talking about tribes that were leaders of their clan and had a great reputation as mighty warriors and leaders of their clans. (5:22)

How did these mighty warriors do in the battle?

“But these tribes were unfaithful to the God of their ancestors. They worshiped the gods of the nations that God had destroyed. So the God of Israel CAUSED King Pul of Assyria to invade the land and take away the people of Reuben…” (5:25)

I Chronicles is going to continue to remind the people of why they were taken into captivity in the first place and give them an encouragement to be the people that God has called them to be!

There is a pattern that they need to remember, and we do also!

God doesn’t bless the “Great and Mighty”. He blesses those that “Seek and Obey”.

When the kings obeyed and trusted God, they were blessed and protected. When the kings disobeyed or put their trust in something or someone other than God,

He WITHDREW His blessing and protection!

When I look at the genealogies that go for nine looooong chapters, I am in awe of a God who took every piece of the puzzle while administering justice and mercy to bring about a complete picture of his unmerited grace.

The faithful could not accomplish it on their own power, and the unfaithful tyrants could not hinder his glorious plan of redemption.

God would keep his covenant to his people. Even though they had been unfaithful, he would be faithful. Even though many of them would try to thwart his plan he would bring about a remnant through which to bring His son.

He would accomplish HIS SOVEREIGN PLAN.

The question is… Who would choose to be part of that plan?

He called the faithful by name and they came and followed. Their names will be remembered because of their faithful obedience…Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob. Joseph, Moses, Gideon, Barak, Samson, David, Samuel, and the prophets.

He called them each by name and they responded… BY FAITH… (Heb. 11)

“I don’t need my name in lights. I’m famous in my Father’s eyes. Make no mistake. He knows my name. I’m not living for applause. I’m already so adored. It’s all His stage."

He knows my name.” (Francesca Battistelli)

Another Recounting

ACTS 26: 1-32 (July 8)

I have a 4-year-old grandson. I love him to pieces. In fact, he tells me he is my "best fwend", Part of my job as Grammy is to teach him right from wrong. I try to explain things to him so he will understand what he is doing that might be inappropriate behavior.

The hard part of this is that I find I am often repeating the same thing to him over and over ... and over. I feel like a broken record. It is necessary but frustrating at times.

The same applies to the two teen-age bodies that reside in my house. They are a strange specimen ... these two beings that show their faces when they are hungry, or when they need to go to the mall. The rest of the time is a battle to see the color of their eyes, when those eyes would rather be looking at a phone screen or a television.

Once again, I find myself repeating the same thing over and over to them, hoping that one day that may FINALLY understand what I am trying to say.

As I read today's scripture, I get frustrated for Paul. Here he is ... yet again, telling the same story of defense that he has spoken numerous times in the past. Does anyone hear him ... REALLY HEAR HIM? Will he ever get his message across to these Jews who continue to persecute him at every turn?

Today he is sharing his story with King Agrippa, Bernice, Festus, and the rest of the audience of prominent people. He gives the entire recounting ... AGAIN ... of his past violence against believers, his transformation, and all he has done since then. He must feel like I often do ... like a broken record!

After hearing all he has to say, the King talked the charges over with the others and they all agreed that he had done nothing to deserve death or imprisonment. King Agrippa said to Festus, "He could have been set free if he hadn't appealed to Cesar." But because Paul had requested the audience with Cesar, he would have to be taken to Italy by the officers.

Where will Paul find himself when he gets there? Most likely, he will find himself offering ANOTHER RECOUNTING of his testimony. He won't be talking to preschoolers. He won't be talking to techie teens. But he will be talking to people who might not want to hear what he has to say.

What’s In A Name

One Year Bible (July 8)

I Chronicles 5:18-6:81

“What’s In a Name”

After chapters of genealogies, you just have to ask yourself, “What’s in a Name?”

This very question is posed in the play Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare.

“What’s in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell just as sweet.”

This line is used to show that the naming of things is irrelevant. It is true that sometimes people judge others as their enemies just by their name. For instance, the name “Montague” kept them apart in this famous play.

Another classic old American Western was called “The Hatfields and the McCoys”. Their family feud spanned decades and nearly launched a war between Kentucky and West Virginia.

A name is a pretty big deal and what tribe or family you are related to can say a lot about you.

Sometimes one name can tell you a lot about a person. For instance, what if I mentioned the name “Jabez”?

His story was found in yesterday’s reading in I Chronicles 4:9-10.

Out of an entire book he was only mentioned in TWO LITTLE VERSES, and yet there is an entire Bible study published about him.

Perhaps you have heard of the little book, “The Prayer of Jabez” by Bruce Wilkinson. It was released in 2000 and sold nine million copies in its first two years in print. A two-verse story has turned into a pretty big success!

Jabez’s name means, “PAIN”. (Actually, it is more like “Pain in the Tushy”. See how I cleaned that up for you?) His birth had been so painful that his mother named him “PAIN”.

If she was French that would have been “Du Pain” which means “Bread”. That would have been a little bit more elegant. Don’t you think? Obviously, she needed one of those little books with more selections to choose from, because long after her pain subsided he was still wearing “Du Pain” in the form of his name!

Here is what we know about Jabez (besides his embarrassing name). He was “More honorable than any of his brothers”, and “He was the one who prayed to the God of Israel”. (4:9-10)

So, right away we see that 1) He was living larger than his name, 2) He knew how to live with honor, and 3) He knew who to pray to The God of Israel.

Here is his short story and big impact, “Oh, that you would bless me and expand my territory! Please, be with me in all that I do, and keep me from all trouble and pain! (4:10)

In reading about this particular prayer request, I have found there are some who criticize it and say, “What a selfish prayer!” This guy didn’t start with praising God and all he is doing is asking for “blessings and wealth”.

Have you noticed how some people like to look at other people of God and find fault? Perhaps, they want their “book deal” also…

They say that the “Proof is in the Pudding”... So, let’s look at the pudding, shall we?

What does God think about his prayer? Perhaps that is more important than my opinion or your opinion.

Here’s the “Du Pain Pudding”, “And God granted him his request.” (4:10)

And that, my friends, is why people are buying this little book. They obviously want to know how to be blessed.

So, let’s take a closer look here…Jabez was CONCEIVED in PAIN, but he was COMMENDED through PRAYER!

He had four requests of the God of Israel:

1. Bless me.

2. Enlarge my territory.

3. Let your hand be with me.

4. Keep me from evil.

Some people want a magical prayer to pray to find God and they hope this prayer will do the trick, but Jabez’s faith wasn’t in a formula. It was in the God of Israel who heard his prayer.

Others criticize and say, “He just wanted to be wealthy and ask for a bunch of land.”

But, we should note that he asks God to have HIS hand on him and to keep him from evil.

Jabez’s prayer helps us better understand our passage today, and
I and II Chronicles as a book. Perhaps that is why the Chronicler included Jabez’s prayer here for us to contemplate.

There are two principles all throughout this study of God’s people, their exile, and their return.

First, Obedience brings Blessing.

Second, Disobedience brings judgment.

These principles are based on a covenant relationship with God.

”If… you obey. Then… I will bless.”

Tomorrow, we will look at more examples of this principle, but for now, try to look at the genealogies through God’s eyes.

What was he searching for in his people?

What’s in a Name?

Just ask Jabez…from “Du Pain” to “Du Prayer”. Oh, la’ la’!

Scandal Ahead

ACTS 25: 1-27 (July 7)

Don't you wish there were physical signs that warned you of impending scandal? How nice it would be to have a head's up to any Scandal Ahead.

What situations in your life could have been avoided if only you had been warned? What people would you have steered clear of, or kept at arm's length?

Yes, it would be great if we could see those signs along the road that gave us warning of scandal to come. Unfortunately, those road signs don't exist. But there are OTHER signs that can warn us ... our intuition, a nagging feeling about something or someone, or what we might hear from someone else.

Paul was in this position of having a feeling about what might be ahead, especially after Festus asked him if he would like to return to Jerusalem for trial.

Festus had gone to Jerusalem to meet with leading priests and other Jewish leaders. They shared all their accusations with him regarding Paul, and they asked Paul to send him back to them for trial. (They planned to kill him on the trip back.)

Festus didn't agree in that moment and told them they could return to Caesara with him to make their complaints. When they returned to Caesara, he took his seat in the court and had Paul brought in. When Paul entered, those Jewish leaders had a ton of accusations to throw at him, much like what we have been reading for the past several days.

Of course, Paul denied any wrongdoing (he must feel like his life is on repeat about now). Festus couldn't find any proof against Paul, but he wanted to please the Jews, so that is when he asked Paul if he was willing to return to Jerusalem to stand trial.

Paul sensed what they had planned. He knew there was scandal ahead, trouble for him. So, he replied, "No! This is the official Roman court, so I ought to be tried right here. You know very well I am not guilting of harming the Jews. If I have do0ne something worthy of death, I don't refuse to die. But if I am innocent, no one has the right to turn me over to these men to kill me. I appeal to Caesar!"

This declaration by Paul served two purposes. 1) He did not want to be killed in Jerusalem. 2) He wanted to preach in Rome, and this request would get him there. Festus agreed and told him he would send him in a few days.

A couple of days later King Grippa arrived to visit Festus, along with the king's sister Bernice. Now this is where there is real SCANDAL AHEAD! Bernice is the older sister of Drusilla. You remember her from a few days back? Drusilla was not a good person, and neither was her big sis.

Apparently, she had been married twice and widowed twice (hmmmm..."Black Widow" maybe?). After being widowed the second time, she became the consort of King Agrippa. That doesn't sound all that unusual until I tell you this part ... she was King Agrippa's SISTER!!!!! Yikes!!!!!

This caused quite a scandal. Prior to this, she was a devout Jew and a dauntless defender of the Jewish people. But the poor life choices she made caused her to drift entirely away from her faith into the cesspool of a sinful life.

This still happens today. We see leaders in the faith drift away from their calling and their beliefs because of the sins they open the door to in their personal lives. Sin is like a cockroach ... give it just a crack and it will get in. (Sorry, didn't mean to gross you out!)

Festus discussed this case with the King and King Agrippa told him he would like to hear Paul tell him the story. The next day, King Agrippa and his sister (I mean girlfriend), entered the auditorium with great pomp and ceremony, accompanied by military officers and prominent men of the city.

Festus had Paul brought in and said, "King Agrippa, this is the man whose death is demanded by all the Jews, both here and in Jerusalem. But in my opinion, he has done nothing deserving death. However, since he appealed his case to the emperor, I have decided to send him to Rome."

There was just one problem ... Festus had no idea what charges to write against Paul in his letter to the emperor. So, he was hoping King Agrippa would hear Paul, and give him some idea of what he could include in the letter.

Here we see Festus asking for the advice and direction of King Agrippa, a man caught in a huge scandal of his own. Had he not heard the rumors and talk about the king and Bernice? Was he not aware of the king's reputation? After all, Paul's life was at stake in all of this.

How often do we take advise or guidance from someone we know we shouldn't listen to? Perhaps we are aware of the poor life choices they have made or the situations they have gotten themselves into. Yet, in our moments of indecisiveness, we seek their council.

Sin creates more sin. Scandal creates more scandal. We need to be on watch for the ways the enemy penetrates our lives, and always be on guard. Because we know that in this fallen world, there is always Scandal Ahead.

The Puzzle of the Nations

Do you even look at a box of pieces and wonder how they all fit to make a puzzle?

A couple years ago I received a request through social media. I responded and found out that I am related to the beautiful lady that wrote me. She works in ministry and used to pick my father up for meetings as he served on a board for a Christian organization. They had discovered they had family in common but weren’t really sure how it all worked. After his passing, she found out exactly how her family was related to our family. How thrilling to find our roots!

It was amazing to see how much we had in common even though we have never met before. We have the same roots and are part of the same “Family Tree”. Both of our families are very involved in serving God. That faith has been actively passed down in our family for generations.

In fact, my husband is a pastor. My dad was a pastor, and both of my grandpas were pastors. That is really quite amazing and unusual. I was going to “bust out of the family tree” and marry a baseball player who wanted to coach and be a campus minister. Guess what? God had other plans for him. Who knew?

The Levites and priests were actually like that in Bible times. In order to be a priest, you needed to be of the lineage of the Levites. They had a very special calling!

There were blessings attached to lineage also. Abraham was given the great blessing of God. Through him, God would make a great nation, give him a great name, curse whoever cursed him, and all the peoples of the earth would be blessed through him. (Gen. 12:1-3)

Now, you know why the genealogy listed in I Chronicles is so important. Everyone wanted to be related to Abraham.

Then there was David and his lineage…Jesus is the Davidic Messiah who will not only rule over Israel but over the whole world. (Rev. 19:15). “The Family Tree” was the lifeline through which God would bring his son to bring redemption to the world.

As you can see from the promise given to Abraham. It was also the lineage through which families and nations could be “cursed”. I don’t know about you, but I have a difficult time understanding this at times.

Have we stopped to think about how this curse of sin first came into our world?

Adam and Eve sinned and the entire world is still paying the price for the “fall of man” that came through one man and one woman. Generation effect generation…

Throughout the studies of I and 11 Samuel, and 1 and 11 Kings we have seen all of the king's families be wiped out due to their sins. We have seen groups of people pay the price as well. Most recently we have seen entire nations be given over to captivity by God’s own hand due to their long-term sin.

The sin that came into the world demanded death from the very onset, but mercy was given. The law was given and a covenant was made with the people. It was always based on conditions. Covenants run two ways; the people did not keep their part.

In the Old Testament, we see that God deals with people as nations. There were twelve tribes, then one nation of Israel, and then a division that put them into the Nation of Judah and the Nation of Israel.

There was also “NOT” separation of church and state.

When they began their journey, Judges were ruling the land. They heard from God and the judges told the people what he required of them to do. Before that time there was Moses leading the people and then Joshua… The people were to be led by God’s voice. That was always God’s plan.

Then, the people demanded to have a King. If you recall, God was not in favor of this. If you look at how the kings all turned out, you will quickly understand why. They brought idol worship to the people and they did not seek God to lead the nations. Often, they led out of pride.

As you read through the genealogies, I would encourage you to highlight in one color the faithful that come to mind as you read their names. Use another color for those that were not faithful.

Then go back and look at the long list through new eyes. How many stand out to you?

What is amazing to stop and think about is how that long list is made up of “Scoundrels” and “Saints”!

God used BOTH to bring about his sovereign plan of a Savior for the people.

Some he used to bring judgment through their evil, and some he used their faithfulness to bring about reform and repentance. In any case, He is unstoppable!

“The Puzzle of the Nations” contains all of the small images of the people whose names fill the pages of the genealogies…Adam, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Isaac, David, Solomon, and on and on and on. Each of them represents one little piece of a gigantic puzzle.

When you look at all the little pieces you wonder how it could make any sense at all. But, when you get “The Big Picture” you won’t see all of their names or images anymore…

Just stand back a little bit and gaze at the big picture.

Can you see it?

All of the names, images, and questions just fade into one glorious image…His name is Jesus!

One day at the “Great Family Reunion” I will see all of their faces and the ONE face that calls us HIS very own, and on that day all my questions will fade into glory as well…

That, my sweet friends, will be the revelation of...

“The Puzzle of the Nations”.