http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Exodus%2036-38&version=NIV
Today we read about the construction of the tabernacle. As commanded by God, those whose heart prompted them (Ex. 25:1-2) brought their offerings to be used in the building. Exodus 36:3-7 tells of how the people continued to bring freewill offerings morning after morning until there was more than enough for doing the work the Lord commanded. When I read this I thought about how incredibly amazing it was that the people’s hearts were moved to give so generously that there was more than enough.
I wonder how often this happens in the church today – especially in America. How often are we, who are so rich, willing to give so much that there is more than enough to carry out the work the Lord wants to do? We certainly have more than enough to give – but are we always willing?
Friday night I went to the Mercy Me concert at Second. It was a great concert, but the thing that touches me the most is to hear the heart of their lead singer. He spoke of Haiti and how God was using this natural disaster to display his glory. He spoke of hundreds dancing and worshipping in the streets while the news broadcast the scene to the world. He spoke of the news commentator reporting that what he continued to hear the people say is “Only God can save.” And as the world watched those who had almost nothing brought to the alter clothes, shoes, and jewelry for those who had even less.
Yes, may people from the United States gave generously to the efforts in Haiti – but we give out of our wealth. The people in Haiti are giving out of their poverty – and I believe this poverty is a greater gift to them then is the wealth that we have. See, it is in their poverty that they recognize that the only way they will survive is through faith in a God who provides. As Francis Chan describes in his book ‘Crazy Love’, people like these Haitians possess little of what ‘counts’ in our society, yet they have what matters most. They came to God in their great need, and they have found true joy. And that is the joy that the world got to watch, perhaps did not understand, but heard what the people of Haiti know to be true – that only God can save.
The people of Haiti reflect the church of Macedonia that Paul writes about in 2 Corinthians 8:1-6. Check out the parallel between the two:
“And now, brothers, we want you to know about the grace that God has given the Macedonian churches. Out of the most severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own, they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service, but they gave themselves first to the Lord and then to us in keeping with God’s will.”
The people of Israel I believe were also facing their own poverty in the face when they gave – and they knew how much God provided. They relied on him as they traveled through the dessert, and had just experienced huge doses of his grace after the worshipping of the golden calf. Indeed, I believe they gave so richly out of their spiritual poverty – they knew they were bankrupt before the Lord. And so they gave because they knew that “only God would save”.
The people of Israel, the church in Macedonia, the Haitians and so many others understand what it means to be poor – both in material wealth and in spirit. But here in the states, we are such a materially wealthy people and so dependent upon that wealth – so self sufficient, that we do not realize that where it not by God’s gift, we would have nothing. Yes, we are rich – yet so many are in spiritual poverty.
Can you imagine the impact on the kingdom of God is only the church in America would understand that we are a spiritually bankrupt nation, in need of God’s great mercy? Can you imagine what strides could be made to reach the world if we were more willing to part with our material wealth in exchange for the privilege of ‘sharing in this service’. Can you imagine how rich we would all be if only we fully understood how poor we are?
And just so you understand, the Lord needs nothing from you. He certainly can and will carry out his work without whatever it is that you could give. The thing is, though, is it is his will and desire for your heart to be moved to give to the one who has given all. He knows that the heart that is willing to give all is a heart of one who has given all of themselves to God. Why does he desire this? Because it is the Father’s good pleasure and desire to give us his kingdom. But as long as we cling to our material wealth, we don’t even seek the kingdom.
Robert Murray M’Cheyne, a Scottish pastor for the early nineteenth century had words that are so appropriate for us today:
“I am concerned for the poor but more for you. I know not what Christ will say to you in the great day….I fear there are many hearing me who may know well that they are not Christians because they do not love to give. To give largely and liberally, not grudgingly at all, requires a new heart; an old heart would rather part with its life-blood than its money. Oh my friends! Enjoy your money; make the most of it; give non away; enjoy quickly for I can tell you, you will be beggars throughout eternity.”
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven”. – Matthew 5:3
Today's post was submitted by Carol Bartels
Saturday, February 13, 2010
Revelation
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Exodus%2033-35&version=NIV
What do you ask God to reveal to you when you ask him for revelation? I can tell you right now that too many times I want him to reveal his plan for me – as in exactly what he will do and when he will do it. However, God rarely answers that prayer with a yes. The prayer that he always answers with a resounding ‘yes’ is any prayer that is about me wanting a deeper knowledge of him. I’ve prayed about understanding the power of praying the word of God and he answered. I prayed for a deeper knowledge of the power of the Holy Spirit and he answered. I prayed about learning more about fasting and how to fast and he answered.
God very rarely (unless it has to do with something he wants us to do for him) will answer the questions of what, how, or why he does things. Instead he will reveal to us the ‘Who’. What I’ve learned in my faith walk, is that God wants us to know Him, to know His character, promises, mercy, and love, and then to live our lives walking in faith because we know who he is. Isn’t that, after all, what faith is? And isn’t our faith the very thing that reflects His glory to others?
Moses is a great example of what we God would have us seek to know Him, and how he always answers that prayer. In Exodus 33:13 he asks God, “If you are pleased with me, teach me your ways so I may know you and continue to find favor with you”. What does he want God to reveal to him? Not how he will get to the promised land, or when, or why the people are wondering in the dessert. Instead he asks God to reveal himself to him.
And God is please to answer his request. In 33:17 he says, “I will do the very thing you have asked, because I am please with you and know you by name.”
Then Moses makes another very bold request. He says (vs. 18), “Now show me your glory.” God answers this request as well, replying, “I will cause all my goodness to pass in front of you and I will proclaim my name, the Lord, in your presence” (vs. 19).
There are two things I want to note in what God reveals and how he reveals it. First, he tells Moses, “But’ he said, ‘you cannot see my face, for no one may see me and live’. Then the Lord said, ‘there is a place near me where you may stand on a rock. When my glory passes by, I will put you in a cleft in the rock and cover you with my hand until I have passed by. Then I will remove my hand and you will see my back; but my face must not be seen” (vs. 20-21).
The reason I point out how he revealed his glory is because in the revelation of his glory, we also see his grace. Matthew Henry’s commentary on the Bible explains it this way (you may want to read it through several times to fully grasp the meaning because of the Old English writing style – but it is a truth that is worth grasping):
“A full discovery of the glory of God, would overwhelm even Moses himself. Man is mean, and unworthy of it; weak, and could not bear it; guilty, and could not but dread it. The merciful display which is made in Christ Jesus, alone can be borne by us. The Lord granted that which would abundantly satisfy. God's goodness is his glory; and he will have us to know him by the glory of his mercy, more than by the glory of his majesty. Upon the rock there was a fit place for Moses to view the goodness and glory of God. The rock in Horeb was typical of Christ the Rock; the Rock of refuge, salvation, and strength. Happy are they who stand upon this Rock. The cleft may be an emblem of Christ, as smitten, crucified, wounded, and slain. What follows, denotes the imperfect knowledge of God in the present state, even as revealed in Christ; for this, when compared with the heavenly sight of him, is but like seeing a man that is gone by, whose back only is to be seen. God in Christ, as he is, even the fullest and brightest displays of his glory, grace, and goodness, are reserved to another state.”
There are several truths that I love in this. The first is that God’s goodness IS his glory, and that he would have us know the glory of his mercy rather than the glory of his majesty. The second is that only through Christ and because of Christ– God’s glory revealed in mercy – will we one day be able to glimpse the majesty of God’s glory. This is why I believe that Paul refers to Christ as being the hope of glory (Col. 1:27). To full grasp this, you really must read 2 Cor. 3:7-18. I’m including the link because it’s a must-read for full understanding. And as you read, compare/cross reference vs. 12-18 with Exodus 34:29-25 for a glimpse of the glory of God revealed to you but also through you.
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Corinthians%203:7-18&version=NIV
Here’s the second thing I wanted to note - In the process of revealing His glory, He reveals his character. “Then the Lord came down in the cloud and stood there with him and proclaimed his name, the Lord. And he passed in front of Moses, proclaiming, ‘The Lord, the Lord, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, maintaining love to thousands, and forgiving wickedness, rebellion and sin” (Ex. 34:6-7).
God holds out to you an amazing picture of his character and his glory – and this is but a glimpse of the fullness of who he is. And just like Moses, if you want to see and understand God, you only need to ask. Why does God so willingly answer these requests? I believe it is because they both are absolutely his will – notice God tells Moses that he will do the thing he asked because he is pleased with him. We please God when we seek to know and to do his will.
God’s will and desire for his chosen people are that they would seek to know him, and that through this knowledge, his glory might be revealed to and through them. Through Christ, my friends, you are God’s chosen people, and his desire for you is the same as it was for Moses and the people of Israel. His promises are the same, his mercy is the same. You need to know that if you desire to grow in your faith, if you desire to know God more, if you desire to see his glory, all you need to do is ask and be willing to participate in the process!
“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.” – Matthew 7:7-8
Are you seeing as you read, my friends, how the Old Testament - the old covenant – and all the promises there-in is just a dim picture of what God offers in Christ - the fulfillment of the new covenant as revealed in the New Testament? This is why the entire Bible is a must-read!
Today's post was submitted by Carol Bartels
What do you ask God to reveal to you when you ask him for revelation? I can tell you right now that too many times I want him to reveal his plan for me – as in exactly what he will do and when he will do it. However, God rarely answers that prayer with a yes. The prayer that he always answers with a resounding ‘yes’ is any prayer that is about me wanting a deeper knowledge of him. I’ve prayed about understanding the power of praying the word of God and he answered. I prayed for a deeper knowledge of the power of the Holy Spirit and he answered. I prayed about learning more about fasting and how to fast and he answered.
God very rarely (unless it has to do with something he wants us to do for him) will answer the questions of what, how, or why he does things. Instead he will reveal to us the ‘Who’. What I’ve learned in my faith walk, is that God wants us to know Him, to know His character, promises, mercy, and love, and then to live our lives walking in faith because we know who he is. Isn’t that, after all, what faith is? And isn’t our faith the very thing that reflects His glory to others?
Moses is a great example of what we God would have us seek to know Him, and how he always answers that prayer. In Exodus 33:13 he asks God, “If you are pleased with me, teach me your ways so I may know you and continue to find favor with you”. What does he want God to reveal to him? Not how he will get to the promised land, or when, or why the people are wondering in the dessert. Instead he asks God to reveal himself to him.
And God is please to answer his request. In 33:17 he says, “I will do the very thing you have asked, because I am please with you and know you by name.”
Then Moses makes another very bold request. He says (vs. 18), “Now show me your glory.” God answers this request as well, replying, “I will cause all my goodness to pass in front of you and I will proclaim my name, the Lord, in your presence” (vs. 19).
There are two things I want to note in what God reveals and how he reveals it. First, he tells Moses, “But’ he said, ‘you cannot see my face, for no one may see me and live’. Then the Lord said, ‘there is a place near me where you may stand on a rock. When my glory passes by, I will put you in a cleft in the rock and cover you with my hand until I have passed by. Then I will remove my hand and you will see my back; but my face must not be seen” (vs. 20-21).
The reason I point out how he revealed his glory is because in the revelation of his glory, we also see his grace. Matthew Henry’s commentary on the Bible explains it this way (you may want to read it through several times to fully grasp the meaning because of the Old English writing style – but it is a truth that is worth grasping):
“A full discovery of the glory of God, would overwhelm even Moses himself. Man is mean, and unworthy of it; weak, and could not bear it; guilty, and could not but dread it. The merciful display which is made in Christ Jesus, alone can be borne by us. The Lord granted that which would abundantly satisfy. God's goodness is his glory; and he will have us to know him by the glory of his mercy, more than by the glory of his majesty. Upon the rock there was a fit place for Moses to view the goodness and glory of God. The rock in Horeb was typical of Christ the Rock; the Rock of refuge, salvation, and strength. Happy are they who stand upon this Rock. The cleft may be an emblem of Christ, as smitten, crucified, wounded, and slain. What follows, denotes the imperfect knowledge of God in the present state, even as revealed in Christ; for this, when compared with the heavenly sight of him, is but like seeing a man that is gone by, whose back only is to be seen. God in Christ, as he is, even the fullest and brightest displays of his glory, grace, and goodness, are reserved to another state.”
There are several truths that I love in this. The first is that God’s goodness IS his glory, and that he would have us know the glory of his mercy rather than the glory of his majesty. The second is that only through Christ and because of Christ– God’s glory revealed in mercy – will we one day be able to glimpse the majesty of God’s glory. This is why I believe that Paul refers to Christ as being the hope of glory (Col. 1:27). To full grasp this, you really must read 2 Cor. 3:7-18. I’m including the link because it’s a must-read for full understanding. And as you read, compare/cross reference vs. 12-18 with Exodus 34:29-25 for a glimpse of the glory of God revealed to you but also through you.
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Corinthians%203:7-18&version=NIV
Here’s the second thing I wanted to note - In the process of revealing His glory, He reveals his character. “Then the Lord came down in the cloud and stood there with him and proclaimed his name, the Lord. And he passed in front of Moses, proclaiming, ‘The Lord, the Lord, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, maintaining love to thousands, and forgiving wickedness, rebellion and sin” (Ex. 34:6-7).
God holds out to you an amazing picture of his character and his glory – and this is but a glimpse of the fullness of who he is. And just like Moses, if you want to see and understand God, you only need to ask. Why does God so willingly answer these requests? I believe it is because they both are absolutely his will – notice God tells Moses that he will do the thing he asked because he is pleased with him. We please God when we seek to know and to do his will.
God’s will and desire for his chosen people are that they would seek to know him, and that through this knowledge, his glory might be revealed to and through them. Through Christ, my friends, you are God’s chosen people, and his desire for you is the same as it was for Moses and the people of Israel. His promises are the same, his mercy is the same. You need to know that if you desire to grow in your faith, if you desire to know God more, if you desire to see his glory, all you need to do is ask and be willing to participate in the process!
“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.” – Matthew 7:7-8
Are you seeing as you read, my friends, how the Old Testament - the old covenant – and all the promises there-in is just a dim picture of what God offers in Christ - the fulfillment of the new covenant as revealed in the New Testament? This is why the entire Bible is a must-read!
Today's post was submitted by Carol Bartels
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Golden Calves
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Exodus%2030-32&version=NIV
I wrote this to a friend of mine several years ago (to prevent speculation about who it was, it is no one that anyone on this blog knows). The back story is this individual came to me confessing a struggle with alcohol. There was some pretty heavy drinking involved, including a few trips to the emergency room for alcohol poisoning. Lots of staying out all night, and some serious regrets about decisions made in a drunken state. In a search to find some way to remind themselves of the trouble the alcohol lead to, this friend said they even considered putting the hospital identification band back on their wrist as a reminder. I committed to praying for my friend, and this came out of my prayers and is what I shared with them.
The reason I share this today is because it is so appropriate for the passage about the golden calf. But I am also certain that while your struggle today or in the past might be very different from that of my friend or of myself, the basic plot is the same. It is my prayer that these truths that God gave me for my struggling friend might be truths he wants you to know also. Here is what I wrote:
When I was praying for you in church this morning, God reminded me of something I studied a few weeks ago. We were reading about The Golden Calf in Exodus 32. I encourage you to go back and read it, but to summarize, Moses is up on Mount Sinai getting the Ten Commandments. And, despite all God had done for them, the people got a little nervous without their leader there (remember, they couldn’t got directly to God – it’s old covenant, they communicated with God through Moses). So, they ask Aaron to make them a god who will go before them. Their gold is collected, melted down, and shaped into a golden calf that they worshiped. When I read this, I thought, “Are you kidding me? They took this thing they themselves created, assigned it some sort of power – although who knows where that power would come from – and worshiped it. Boy, were they stupid.”
But, our good and gracious Father God, who disciplines us like we are his children, tapped me on the side of the head and said, “Carol, as if you’ve never done that. Should we go back and remember?” And I have done it – I’ve taken things that this world has created, or my own abilities, and worshiped them in the place of God. And unlike the children of Israel who relied on Moses to speak to God or deliver words from God, the God I serve is the God of the New Covenant – a God I have direct access to – a God who confides himself in us (Psalm 25:14). He is a God who generously promised us wisdom if we only ask and believe (James 1:5-6) - which makes me marginally more stupid than the Israelites. But we all do it – we look to food, drink, other people, money, etc. to give us what we need, to fill us, to fix us, to make a feel a little better. In essence, we assign those things – things that are created by man – some sort of power. Ridiculous, isn’t it? But it is so easily done.
I’m reminded of the verses in Romans 1:21-23;25 – “For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking came futile and their foolish hearts where darkened. Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images made to look like mortal man and birds and animals and reptiles….They exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the creator – who is forever to be praised.
I remember when I first really took hold of the truth of that last verse. It was when I was obsessive about working out and trying to find my self worth through the way I looked. I was serving my body image and not my God. I felt so foolish when God put that truth in front of me. But like our amazingly merciful God, he also used that truth to begin a healing process.
I share all of that with you because generally, when we are hanging out with things of this world that we know aren’t good for us, it’s because we are doing one or both of the following things. First, we often are looking to that thing to provide something to us. And second, we’re buying into some type of lie. So ask yourself these two questions. First, what are you thinking the alcohol is going to do for you? Is it about stress relief, relaxation, personality enhancement? And what lies are you buying about it? Same with the late night partying – are you buying the lie that you’ll miss something if you go home? Consider those things. In other words, time to figure out what’s going on in your world or what have you lost hold of. And then ask yourself these two things: The things that I’ve allowed myself to go back to – can they really give me anything that an almighty, supernatural God cannot? And those lies you are buying – test them against Phil. 4:8 (whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable – if anything is excellent or praiseworthy) and see if they stand up or if they are the lies of the world. And if they answers don’t come – ask God to show you. I 100% guarantee that he will.
Next, I want you to know that everyone takes backward steps in their walks. God knows that. That’s why it says in Eph. 1:8 that he forgives with wisdom and understanding in James 4:6 that he gives us more grace. And the beautiful thing about our God is that generally when we take one step back, he’ll bring us five steps forward. He is so faithful.
My challenge to you this week is this – instead of taking that hospital bracelet and putting it back on as a reminder, I challenge you to set aside 30 min. every day of just pure quiet time with no distractions and meditate on God’s word and pray. Let the firm planting of God’s truth be your reminder. Ask God for that – ask him to show you all your idols, and then show you what he wants you to know, to plant his truth firmly in your heart, and to turn your eyes on him. Again, I guarantee he will do this because it is a prayer according to his will. However, you are responsible for listening and responding to him. Here are some things to meditate on:
The book of James – esp. James 4:4-8. Take special note of these truths – Friendship with the world is hatred of God (can’t serve both masters). Second, the Spirit envies intensely – for our full devotion. Third, God gives us more grace. Fourth – if we resist the devil (and we can ask God to give us that resistance) he will flee from us. Lastly, if you come near to God, he will come near to you.
Meditate on who you are – 1 Peter 2:9-10 (Actually, that whole chapter is good)
Ask God to do some work on renewing your mind – but participate in the process - Romans 12:1-2
What I’ve learned in my journey is there is so much more we can do for ourselves simply by being in the word, sitting down, praising, confessing, asking, and yielding to God, being still before him, and allowing himself to plant is truth in us, then anything else we could possibly do. See, God is a God who has everything handled. Sometimes its rough going, sometimes we don’t see how, and sometimes we don’t feel him, but he’s a sovereign, supernatural, holy God. He perfect in wisdom and love and has a plan and a purpose for you. He knows your strengths and your limitations better than you and so we just have to go before him and let him move in our lives to make us the people he wants us to be, to take us to the places he wants us to go, and to use us in the way he wants to. Be still.
Today's post was submitted by Carol Bartels
I wrote this to a friend of mine several years ago (to prevent speculation about who it was, it is no one that anyone on this blog knows). The back story is this individual came to me confessing a struggle with alcohol. There was some pretty heavy drinking involved, including a few trips to the emergency room for alcohol poisoning. Lots of staying out all night, and some serious regrets about decisions made in a drunken state. In a search to find some way to remind themselves of the trouble the alcohol lead to, this friend said they even considered putting the hospital identification band back on their wrist as a reminder. I committed to praying for my friend, and this came out of my prayers and is what I shared with them.
The reason I share this today is because it is so appropriate for the passage about the golden calf. But I am also certain that while your struggle today or in the past might be very different from that of my friend or of myself, the basic plot is the same. It is my prayer that these truths that God gave me for my struggling friend might be truths he wants you to know also. Here is what I wrote:
When I was praying for you in church this morning, God reminded me of something I studied a few weeks ago. We were reading about The Golden Calf in Exodus 32. I encourage you to go back and read it, but to summarize, Moses is up on Mount Sinai getting the Ten Commandments. And, despite all God had done for them, the people got a little nervous without their leader there (remember, they couldn’t got directly to God – it’s old covenant, they communicated with God through Moses). So, they ask Aaron to make them a god who will go before them. Their gold is collected, melted down, and shaped into a golden calf that they worshiped. When I read this, I thought, “Are you kidding me? They took this thing they themselves created, assigned it some sort of power – although who knows where that power would come from – and worshiped it. Boy, were they stupid.”
But, our good and gracious Father God, who disciplines us like we are his children, tapped me on the side of the head and said, “Carol, as if you’ve never done that. Should we go back and remember?” And I have done it – I’ve taken things that this world has created, or my own abilities, and worshiped them in the place of God. And unlike the children of Israel who relied on Moses to speak to God or deliver words from God, the God I serve is the God of the New Covenant – a God I have direct access to – a God who confides himself in us (Psalm 25:14). He is a God who generously promised us wisdom if we only ask and believe (James 1:5-6) - which makes me marginally more stupid than the Israelites. But we all do it – we look to food, drink, other people, money, etc. to give us what we need, to fill us, to fix us, to make a feel a little better. In essence, we assign those things – things that are created by man – some sort of power. Ridiculous, isn’t it? But it is so easily done.
I’m reminded of the verses in Romans 1:21-23;25 – “For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking came futile and their foolish hearts where darkened. Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images made to look like mortal man and birds and animals and reptiles….They exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the creator – who is forever to be praised.
I remember when I first really took hold of the truth of that last verse. It was when I was obsessive about working out and trying to find my self worth through the way I looked. I was serving my body image and not my God. I felt so foolish when God put that truth in front of me. But like our amazingly merciful God, he also used that truth to begin a healing process.
I share all of that with you because generally, when we are hanging out with things of this world that we know aren’t good for us, it’s because we are doing one or both of the following things. First, we often are looking to that thing to provide something to us. And second, we’re buying into some type of lie. So ask yourself these two questions. First, what are you thinking the alcohol is going to do for you? Is it about stress relief, relaxation, personality enhancement? And what lies are you buying about it? Same with the late night partying – are you buying the lie that you’ll miss something if you go home? Consider those things. In other words, time to figure out what’s going on in your world or what have you lost hold of. And then ask yourself these two things: The things that I’ve allowed myself to go back to – can they really give me anything that an almighty, supernatural God cannot? And those lies you are buying – test them against Phil. 4:8 (whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable – if anything is excellent or praiseworthy) and see if they stand up or if they are the lies of the world. And if they answers don’t come – ask God to show you. I 100% guarantee that he will.
Next, I want you to know that everyone takes backward steps in their walks. God knows that. That’s why it says in Eph. 1:8 that he forgives with wisdom and understanding in James 4:6 that he gives us more grace. And the beautiful thing about our God is that generally when we take one step back, he’ll bring us five steps forward. He is so faithful.
My challenge to you this week is this – instead of taking that hospital bracelet and putting it back on as a reminder, I challenge you to set aside 30 min. every day of just pure quiet time with no distractions and meditate on God’s word and pray. Let the firm planting of God’s truth be your reminder. Ask God for that – ask him to show you all your idols, and then show you what he wants you to know, to plant his truth firmly in your heart, and to turn your eyes on him. Again, I guarantee he will do this because it is a prayer according to his will. However, you are responsible for listening and responding to him. Here are some things to meditate on:
The book of James – esp. James 4:4-8. Take special note of these truths – Friendship with the world is hatred of God (can’t serve both masters). Second, the Spirit envies intensely – for our full devotion. Third, God gives us more grace. Fourth – if we resist the devil (and we can ask God to give us that resistance) he will flee from us. Lastly, if you come near to God, he will come near to you.
Meditate on who you are – 1 Peter 2:9-10 (Actually, that whole chapter is good)
Ask God to do some work on renewing your mind – but participate in the process - Romans 12:1-2
What I’ve learned in my journey is there is so much more we can do for ourselves simply by being in the word, sitting down, praising, confessing, asking, and yielding to God, being still before him, and allowing himself to plant is truth in us, then anything else we could possibly do. See, God is a God who has everything handled. Sometimes its rough going, sometimes we don’t see how, and sometimes we don’t feel him, but he’s a sovereign, supernatural, holy God. He perfect in wisdom and love and has a plan and a purpose for you. He knows your strengths and your limitations better than you and so we just have to go before him and let him move in our lives to make us the people he wants us to be, to take us to the places he wants us to go, and to use us in the way he wants to. Be still.
Today's post was submitted by Carol Bartels
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Aaron, Jesus, and Me - A Royal Priesthood
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Exodus%2028-29&version=NIV
But you are a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.”
– 1 Peter 2:9
In today’s passages we read of the consecration of Aaron and his descendents to serve as priests for the Israelites. Under the Old covenant, the job of the priests was to offer gifts and sacrifices to atone for sin and to intercede for the people, to deal with those who are ignorant and are going astray, and to read the law of Moses to the people and remind them of their covenant obligation.
And then God made a better way, appointing a great High Priest – Jesus Christ – to make final atonement for our sins – ushering in his New Covenant. Under that new covenant we also are consecrated – set apart – to be part of the royal priesthood. Because we have been chosen for this, I think it’s important to understand what it means to be part of the royal priesthood. Let’s look at what the role of the Old Covenant priests was, how Christ fulfilled that role, and how through him we also are able to be part of the royal priesthood.
First, it is important to know that the priests must be chosen by God. In Exodus 28:1 God tells Moses that he wants Aaron and his sons to serve as priests. We read Hebrews 5:4-6 that “Christ did not take upon Himself the glory of becoming a high priest. But God said to him, ‘You are My son; today I have become your Father.’ And he says in another place, ‘You are a priest forever in the order of Melchizedek. And in 1 Peter 2:9 we also read that we are a chosen people, a royal priesthood. Wow – how amazing is it that we are called to be part of such an exclusive people – the descendents of Aaron, Christ, and us!
The priests where also clothed in priestly garments – Exodus 27 describes these in great detail. Christ was also robed – in the midst of being our atoning sacrifice they casts lots for Christ’s clothes, put a purple robe on him and mocked him, and then he wore grave clothes. But now, he sits at the right hand of God, clothed in majesty and splendor (Psalm 93:1; 104;1). We also are clothed in priestly garments. Colossians 3:10-12 says that we have put on a new self, and are told ‘as God’s chosen people, holy and early loved, cloth yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Romans 13:14 says we are to clothe ourselves with Christ. My favorite is Isaiah 61:10, “For he has clothed me with garments of salvation and arrayed me in a robe of righteousness.”
Next, it is important to know that the priests where consecrated – all of the people are called in Exodus 29 to come to a seven-day ceremony of consecration. Through the making of sacrifice, Aaron and his sons are set apart and made suitable to be made presentable to worship the God of all – the great I AM. Christ himself was set apart for a specific purpose – HE, needing not atonement, was made the atoning sacrifice for us. And so, through Christ, we are also called to be set apart. We are called to consecrate our body in service to God. Romans 12:1-2 says, “In view of God’s mercy, offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God – this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of the world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is – his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Take note – God asks as to offer our bodies as living sacrifices. Notice the parallel that when Aaron and his sons were consecrated, their ears, hands, and feet where specifically made part of that consecration (Ex. 29:19-21). This consecration symbolized a sensitivity to God and his word and a life of service to other’s on God’s behalf. When, through the sacrifice and power of Christ, we offer ourselves as living sacrifices, we too are giving a sensitivity to God’s word. Note Romans 12:2 says we are able to test and approve God’s will – I believe this is done through the renewing of our minds by the Word of God and the power of the Spirit.
One of the roles of the priests was also that they were to intercede for the people and to gently guide them. This was the purpose of both the onyx stones engraved with the names of the sons of Israel in Exodus 28:9-12 and the specific construction of the breast plate. Exodus 28:30 says, “Thus Aaron will always bear the means of making decision for the Israelites over his heart before the Lord.” Christ also intercedes for us – Hebrews 7:25 says, “Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them” (Romans 8:26-27 and 34 also speak of both the Spirit and Christ making intercession for us before the throne of God). And so we, as the royal priesthood are also called to intercede for one another. James 5:16 says that we are to “confess our sins to one another and pray for each other so that we may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man (one who is part of the royal priesthood, made righteous through the great High Priest) is powerful and effective.
Lastly, Exodus 28:36-39 describes the final piece of the priestly garments. Aaron was to wear a turban – a golden crown with the words, “Holy to the Lord” inscribed on it. Wearing this, he could not forget his new identity – He was holy, set apart for God’s service. Christ also wore a crown as the great High Priest – a crown of thorns. But now he wears another crown – as King of Kings and Lord of Lords. Revelations 19:11-12 is another passage I love. It says, “I saw heaven standing open and there before me was a white horse, whose rider is called Faithful and True. With justice he judges and makes war. His eyes are like blazing fire, and on his head are many crowns."
I think I will end on this thought. As God’s chosen people, a member of the royal priesthood, you also wear a crown. Isaiah 61:3 says that we have a crown of beauty instead of ashes and 62:3 says that you will be a crown of splendor in the Lord’s hand. Are you willing to wear the crown that states your identity, “Holy to the Lord?”
Today's post was submitted by Carol Bartels
But you are a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.”
– 1 Peter 2:9
In today’s passages we read of the consecration of Aaron and his descendents to serve as priests for the Israelites. Under the Old covenant, the job of the priests was to offer gifts and sacrifices to atone for sin and to intercede for the people, to deal with those who are ignorant and are going astray, and to read the law of Moses to the people and remind them of their covenant obligation.
And then God made a better way, appointing a great High Priest – Jesus Christ – to make final atonement for our sins – ushering in his New Covenant. Under that new covenant we also are consecrated – set apart – to be part of the royal priesthood. Because we have been chosen for this, I think it’s important to understand what it means to be part of the royal priesthood. Let’s look at what the role of the Old Covenant priests was, how Christ fulfilled that role, and how through him we also are able to be part of the royal priesthood.
First, it is important to know that the priests must be chosen by God. In Exodus 28:1 God tells Moses that he wants Aaron and his sons to serve as priests. We read Hebrews 5:4-6 that “Christ did not take upon Himself the glory of becoming a high priest. But God said to him, ‘You are My son; today I have become your Father.’ And he says in another place, ‘You are a priest forever in the order of Melchizedek. And in 1 Peter 2:9 we also read that we are a chosen people, a royal priesthood. Wow – how amazing is it that we are called to be part of such an exclusive people – the descendents of Aaron, Christ, and us!
The priests where also clothed in priestly garments – Exodus 27 describes these in great detail. Christ was also robed – in the midst of being our atoning sacrifice they casts lots for Christ’s clothes, put a purple robe on him and mocked him, and then he wore grave clothes. But now, he sits at the right hand of God, clothed in majesty and splendor (Psalm 93:1; 104;1). We also are clothed in priestly garments. Colossians 3:10-12 says that we have put on a new self, and are told ‘as God’s chosen people, holy and early loved, cloth yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Romans 13:14 says we are to clothe ourselves with Christ. My favorite is Isaiah 61:10, “For he has clothed me with garments of salvation and arrayed me in a robe of righteousness.”
Next, it is important to know that the priests where consecrated – all of the people are called in Exodus 29 to come to a seven-day ceremony of consecration. Through the making of sacrifice, Aaron and his sons are set apart and made suitable to be made presentable to worship the God of all – the great I AM. Christ himself was set apart for a specific purpose – HE, needing not atonement, was made the atoning sacrifice for us. And so, through Christ, we are also called to be set apart. We are called to consecrate our body in service to God. Romans 12:1-2 says, “In view of God’s mercy, offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God – this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of the world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is – his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Take note – God asks as to offer our bodies as living sacrifices. Notice the parallel that when Aaron and his sons were consecrated, their ears, hands, and feet where specifically made part of that consecration (Ex. 29:19-21). This consecration symbolized a sensitivity to God and his word and a life of service to other’s on God’s behalf. When, through the sacrifice and power of Christ, we offer ourselves as living sacrifices, we too are giving a sensitivity to God’s word. Note Romans 12:2 says we are able to test and approve God’s will – I believe this is done through the renewing of our minds by the Word of God and the power of the Spirit.
One of the roles of the priests was also that they were to intercede for the people and to gently guide them. This was the purpose of both the onyx stones engraved with the names of the sons of Israel in Exodus 28:9-12 and the specific construction of the breast plate. Exodus 28:30 says, “Thus Aaron will always bear the means of making decision for the Israelites over his heart before the Lord.” Christ also intercedes for us – Hebrews 7:25 says, “Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them” (Romans 8:26-27 and 34 also speak of both the Spirit and Christ making intercession for us before the throne of God). And so we, as the royal priesthood are also called to intercede for one another. James 5:16 says that we are to “confess our sins to one another and pray for each other so that we may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man (one who is part of the royal priesthood, made righteous through the great High Priest) is powerful and effective.
Lastly, Exodus 28:36-39 describes the final piece of the priestly garments. Aaron was to wear a turban – a golden crown with the words, “Holy to the Lord” inscribed on it. Wearing this, he could not forget his new identity – He was holy, set apart for God’s service. Christ also wore a crown as the great High Priest – a crown of thorns. But now he wears another crown – as King of Kings and Lord of Lords. Revelations 19:11-12 is another passage I love. It says, “I saw heaven standing open and there before me was a white horse, whose rider is called Faithful and True. With justice he judges and makes war. His eyes are like blazing fire, and on his head are many crowns."
I think I will end on this thought. As God’s chosen people, a member of the royal priesthood, you also wear a crown. Isaiah 61:3 says that we have a crown of beauty instead of ashes and 62:3 says that you will be a crown of splendor in the Lord’s hand. Are you willing to wear the crown that states your identity, “Holy to the Lord?”
Today's post was submitted by Carol Bartels
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
The Dwelling Place of God
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Exodus%2025-27&version=NIV
“Then have them make a sanctuary for me, and I will dwell among them.” – Exodus 25:8
In today’s reading God provides very specific instructions regarding the tabernacle. The tabernacle was the place where God would dwell among his people. The word sanctuary means a place set apart – a place made Holy by the divine presence of God. And God had very specific instructions for the construction of a place that is set apart for him.
But how do these instructions apply to my life? Why were they important enough for God to inspire man to write them and then include them in his Holy word? I believe the answer is found in asking this simple question – Where is the God’s sanctuary located today? Is it Second Baptist? First Baptist? The Crystal Cathedral? Let’s go to the Word for the answer. It says this:
Don’t you know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you? – 1 Corinthians 3:16
Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought with a price. Therefore, honor God with your body. – 1 Corinthians 6:19
That’s right, my friends – while under the Old Covenant, God’s dwelling place was in the tabernacle and later the temple, behind a curtain that separated us from being directly in the presence of God, a place only a consecrated priest could enter. But under the New Covenant, because our Great High Priest made a way – because the curtain of separation was torn by his death that atoned our sins once and for all – the place made Holy by the divine presence of God is your very body!
That is such an amazing truth! The tabernacle moves from a place we God to worship to the reason that we worship! And because our body is the sanctuary of God, the instructions God gives for building it are important. So let’s take a look at what we can learn about creating a dwelling place for God in our hearts.
First, read Exodus 25:1-9. God wanted material used to build his dwelling place to be received “from each man whose heart prompts him to give”. A little inside tip from Mary Ann Bridgewater again tell us that the Hebrew word fro prompts is nadab, which means to be willing. This root has the flavor of an uncompelled, free movement of the will for divine service or sacrifice.The gifts where to be presented with a willful heart – hearts stirred up and incited to action – hearts that where willing to sacrifice all they had that was needed to build the tabernacle. Their all was dedicated to Him.
Is your heart stirred up – willing to sacrifice and devote your all to Him. Will you yield your heart to a God who desires to make it his dwelling place?
Next, notice that in Exodus 25: 23-30, instructions are given for a table that would hold the bread of the presence. My study Bible says “The bread represented a perpetual bread offering to the Lord by which Israel declared that it consecrated to God the fruits of its labors, and by which the nation at the same time acknowledged that all such fruit been provided by God.”
As the dwelling place of God, are you will to offer yourself daily before his throne, giving him your first fruits – the best of your labor – knowing that it is the Lord that gives you the gifts that you need and moves you to “will and to act according to him good purpose”. Are you willing to give your all to him?
Exodus 25:31-40 gives detailed instructions for the lamp stand. Again, my study Bible explains that “the lamps represented the glory of the Lord reflected in the consecrated lives of the Israelites”. Is the glory of the Lord reflected through the light of your life? In Matthew 5:14-16 we are called the light of the world and given the command to “let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven”.
As a last example of how are lives are to be a sanctuary for God, let’s look at the brazen altar in Exodus 27:1. It was an elevated altar where priest offered sacrifices of atonement. Because Jesus was our perfect atoning sacrifice, we should worship daily at His altar. We offer our bodies as living sacrifices. We worship in Spirit and in truth. We lift up the name of our Lord and Savior for who He is and what He has done. We offer sacrifices of praise and thanksgiving.
When we are intentional in our time of worship, there is a power of the supernatural God – we are filled with his presence and our lives are set apart to serve Him only.
Amen and Amen!
Today's post was submitted by Carol Bartels
“Then have them make a sanctuary for me, and I will dwell among them.” – Exodus 25:8
In today’s reading God provides very specific instructions regarding the tabernacle. The tabernacle was the place where God would dwell among his people. The word sanctuary means a place set apart – a place made Holy by the divine presence of God. And God had very specific instructions for the construction of a place that is set apart for him.
But how do these instructions apply to my life? Why were they important enough for God to inspire man to write them and then include them in his Holy word? I believe the answer is found in asking this simple question – Where is the God’s sanctuary located today? Is it Second Baptist? First Baptist? The Crystal Cathedral? Let’s go to the Word for the answer. It says this:
Don’t you know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you? – 1 Corinthians 3:16
Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought with a price. Therefore, honor God with your body. – 1 Corinthians 6:19
That’s right, my friends – while under the Old Covenant, God’s dwelling place was in the tabernacle and later the temple, behind a curtain that separated us from being directly in the presence of God, a place only a consecrated priest could enter. But under the New Covenant, because our Great High Priest made a way – because the curtain of separation was torn by his death that atoned our sins once and for all – the place made Holy by the divine presence of God is your very body!
That is such an amazing truth! The tabernacle moves from a place we God to worship to the reason that we worship! And because our body is the sanctuary of God, the instructions God gives for building it are important. So let’s take a look at what we can learn about creating a dwelling place for God in our hearts.
First, read Exodus 25:1-9. God wanted material used to build his dwelling place to be received “from each man whose heart prompts him to give”. A little inside tip from Mary Ann Bridgewater again tell us that the Hebrew word fro prompts is nadab, which means to be willing. This root has the flavor of an uncompelled, free movement of the will for divine service or sacrifice.The gifts where to be presented with a willful heart – hearts stirred up and incited to action – hearts that where willing to sacrifice all they had that was needed to build the tabernacle. Their all was dedicated to Him.
Is your heart stirred up – willing to sacrifice and devote your all to Him. Will you yield your heart to a God who desires to make it his dwelling place?
Next, notice that in Exodus 25: 23-30, instructions are given for a table that would hold the bread of the presence. My study Bible says “The bread represented a perpetual bread offering to the Lord by which Israel declared that it consecrated to God the fruits of its labors, and by which the nation at the same time acknowledged that all such fruit been provided by God.”
As the dwelling place of God, are you will to offer yourself daily before his throne, giving him your first fruits – the best of your labor – knowing that it is the Lord that gives you the gifts that you need and moves you to “will and to act according to him good purpose”. Are you willing to give your all to him?
Exodus 25:31-40 gives detailed instructions for the lamp stand. Again, my study Bible explains that “the lamps represented the glory of the Lord reflected in the consecrated lives of the Israelites”. Is the glory of the Lord reflected through the light of your life? In Matthew 5:14-16 we are called the light of the world and given the command to “let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven”.
As a last example of how are lives are to be a sanctuary for God, let’s look at the brazen altar in Exodus 27:1. It was an elevated altar where priest offered sacrifices of atonement. Because Jesus was our perfect atoning sacrifice, we should worship daily at His altar. We offer our bodies as living sacrifices. We worship in Spirit and in truth. We lift up the name of our Lord and Savior for who He is and what He has done. We offer sacrifices of praise and thanksgiving.
When we are intentional in our time of worship, there is a power of the supernatural God – we are filled with his presence and our lives are set apart to serve Him only.
Amen and Amen!
Today's post was submitted by Carol Bartels
Monday, February 8, 2010
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Exodus%2022-24&version=NIV
“Come up to Me on the Mountain and stay here, and I will give you the tablets of stone, with the law and commands I have written for their instruction.” - Exodus 24:12
I am a big fan of learning from the wisdom of others. I am continuing to glean wisdom and insight from the fields of those who have gone before me, tilled and planted the fields, providing a rich harvest of understanding. I pray that from these sources you will be enlightened, for the commands of the Lord are radiant, giving light to the eyes (Psalm 19:8).
The first field we’ll visit belongs to Mary Ann Bridgewater, a fellow Houstonian, member of First Baptist, and friend of a friend who wrote Building a House of Prayer – an amazing study. She provides the following insights – most of which are her exact words – a few are paraphrased – I’ll try to keep her words in italics:
God had a plan for Moses. God wrote the instructions for Moses and delivered them to him. If you, out of obedience, daily answer the call from god to come up to Him, you will receive ongoing instructions for you life that are higher than your ways and thoughts, and you will know the plans of action God has for you life.
The phrase ‘come up’ is often used to denote traveling from a lower elevation to a higher one. You no longer have to live your life at a lower level, conforming to the ways of the world. When you daily ‘come up’ to spend time along with God, He will take you to a higher level spiritually. god wants you to withdraw to read His Word, meditating and listening to His voice speak to your heart, and then to pray the Word. You will be taken higher with God. What happens when you go higher?
You will be empowered to see the way God, the creator of the Universe sees. Like Moses, you will be given spiritual insight to information and instruction from god. He will fill you up and set you on fire with His light.
You will be empowered to hear and know God’s voice. Check out Proverbs 8:4-16 to see this truth written in the word of God. The more time you spend with God the more you will intelligently discern His voice. God speaks through his Word. He speaks through friends who are of wise counsel, through pastors, through family – and we know He is speaking through others when what they say is truth from God’s word.
You will possess the mind of Christ. Isaiah 55:8-11 says that His thoughts are not our thoughts, but that God’s word goes out and yields seed for the sower (which is how we ended up in Mary Ann’s field) and bread for the eater. His word does not return void, but will accomplish the purpose for which it was sent.
One a side note the word of God has amazing power to transform and renew your mind so you can discern God’s good, pleasing, and perfect will (Romans 12:2). Russ mentioned on Sunday that he prays this over himself every day - and last month I started doing the same. It’s an amazing word that has power to transform you prayer life – I encourage you to give it a try. Okay – back to Mary Ann’s list of what happens when we answer the call to go up:
You will be empowered to speak the truth with boldness – 1 Corinthians 2:13-14
You will be empowered to possess a pure heart – 2 Timothy 2:19-21
You will be empowered to have servant’s hands – Psalm 144: 1-2; 90:17)
You will be empowered to walk in step with the Spirit of God – Proverbs 4:11-12; Galatians 5:25.
Yes, my friends, there is immense power when we go up to the mountain to meet with God. The understanding we gain their can be absolutely transforming. The last thing I want to share is new understanding I gained today through the word as I went up to the mountain.
To end today, let’s take a look at Exodus 23:29-30. Here God explains to Moses that he will take care of every aspect of the Israelites being able to take possession of the land, including dealing with their enemies and driving out the people who now are in the land. He says “But I will not drive them out in a single year, because the land would become desolate and wild animals to numerous for you. Little by little I will drive them out before you until you have increased enough to take possession of the land.”
As I was reading Mathew Henry’s commentary on these verses (you can find it at crosswalk.com), he explained that in bringing the people to the promised land, he would do this in wisdom, so that the Canaanites remained until Israel had grown into a people and could fill the land. The lesson as it applies to our life – God often delays mercies (i.e. – the promises he has for our life) because we are not ready for them. Canaan has room enough to receive Israel, but Israel is not numerous enough to occupy Canaan.
That being said, when you consider the promises or desires of your heart that you are waiting on that seem long delayed, do you wonder where God’s compassion is? Perhaps it is time to shift focus and realize that God is abundantly compassionate, merciful, and loving in the delay. He wants to bring you to the promised land when you are fully equipped – He wants to promised land to be everything we dreamed it to be – and nothing less. Come up to the mountain of God, see God’s view. Let Him speak truth about His love, His promises, His sovereign wisdom. Then rest and let Him bring you into the land.
Today's post was submitted by Carol Bartels
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