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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Mar 12, 2019 22:27:46 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Hebrews 11:14, 11 March 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·MONDAY, MARCH 11, 2019 Monday, 11 March 2019 For those who say such things declare plainly that they seek a homeland. Hebrews 11:14 The word “For” is based upon the words of the previous verses dealing with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. It is they “who say such things.” This is referring to words such as being a stranger and a sojourner which Abraham declared before the sons of Heth, proclaiming the days of one’s pilgrimage (meaning being one who is on a religious quest to a place of worship) as Jacob did before Pharaoh, and other such utterances. When people say such things, they “declare plainly.” The word means “to make manifest.” There is an intent in them which is brought forth in the very words they speak. When a Christian says, “This isn’t my home,” it is a manifestation of a desire to be taken to his “real home.” A person who believes that this is his one chance at life would never speak in such a way. Rather, he will be sure to take every opportunity to increase his station in this life in whatever way he feels will be the most beneficial to that station. However, when one makes it manifest that this is not their final destination, it indicates “that they seek a homeland.” Here the word is patris. It indicates a fatherland, and thus one’s homeland. A person may be in the foreign service, or in a company in a foreign country, for many long years. He may have a house and lots of goods accumulated during that time, but he will still speak of returning home when his service is complete. This is the idea which is spoken of here. The walk for a believer is one which anticipates a home that he longs to return to. Even if he has never actually been there, he was there in his first father, Adam. As all humans were potentially and seminally in Adam when he was created, there is a connection back to what he experienced. For the believer, there is a desire to go where Adam had been. The child of the person in the foreign service mentioned above may have the same longing to return to his father’s country as his father had. Should the father die, the son may make an appeal to return to the land of his father. This is the idea being conveyed here. Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob understood this. Faithful believers in Messiah continue to understand it today. Life application: It really is a wonderful thing to hear a Christian say, “This ain’t my home.” This is especially so when he is receiving a reward, honor, or is just having a great day. When things are going wrong, or when life is beating you up, it is easy to wish for another home without the difficulties and trials of the moment, but when things are going right and you still can say this – wow! That is true dedication to the promises of the Lord. When this is the heart’s desire of a faithful believer, and yet difficult times to come, their hope and faith are only increased, not shaken. On the other hand, if a person is happily content to put off the Lord’s coming for another day, then when trials come, the response may be different. Yes, their faith may be strengthened during the trial, but the pressure of the ordeal will certainly be greater than it otherwise would have been. Today, even right now, check out your faith level. Is there anything coming in life that would make you say, “I hope the Lord waits just a little while before coming”? Other than desiring the salvation of another person, there should be nothing more anticipated than the promise of His return. This is exactly why we should be evangelizing at all times. Keep your eyes on Jesus through the good and the bad, and look for a country of your own in the life to come. “Oh come, let us sing to the Lord! Let us shout joyfully to the Rock of our salvation.” Psalm 95:1 Lord Jesus, fill our souls with a longing for You alone. May nothing ever take our eyes off of You, and may nothing ever divert our thoughts from the glory of Your majesty. How precious to us is the day that You return to take us home! And may that day be soon. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Mar 13, 2019 23:47:51 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Hebrews 11:16, 13 March 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·WEDNESDAY, MARCH 13, 2019 Wednesday, 13 March 2019 But now they desire a better, that is, a heavenly country. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for He has prepared a city for them.Hebrews 11:16 The author now begins a new thought concerning Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob with, “But now.” It is a contrasting thought to what he just said about the fact that if they wished to, they could have returned to the country from which they had come out. Rather than that though, “they desire a better, that is, a heavenly country.” Instead of an inheritance in an earthly country, their hearts, minds, and future affections are set on what God has promised for man, not on what man currently has, or can, possess. Earlier in Hebrews, the author spoke of entering God’s promised rest. This was to be, in type, Canaan. However, it is seen that Canaan was only typical of a spiritual reality. In Hebrews 4:3, speaking to his audience who are in various places (and who continue on in various times since the letter was written), it says, “For we who have believed do enter that rest.” What was thought to be the obtaining of God’s rest through entrance into Canaan is actually the entering of God’s rest through belief in God’s Son. By faith in Messiah, one enters into God’s promised rest. This is what is again being relayed here. Canaan, the promised inheritance for Abraham’s descendants, is only given in type and shadow of the “heavenly country.” As these men lived in faith of something they did not possess, and as that thing which was promised was only typical of heaven, then the promise must stand for any who look forward to God’s promises by faith as well. And so it is. This will be made explicit in the final verse of the chapter. For now though, and because of their faith in this promise, the author says, “Therefore.” It is based on these things, which have been spoken of, that he says, “God is not ashamed to be called their God.” The word signifies being surnamed. The patrimony of God rests upon the individual, without any hint of shame or embarrassment by Him, because of their faith in Him and His promises. This is why God said to Moses of them in Exodus 3:6, “I am the God of your father—the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.” This is so clear in God’s mind that “He has prepared a city for them.” There is no doubt that this is speaking of the restored paradise where God will dwell with man. It is known as “the New Jerusalem” in the book of Revelation. These men of God looked back on the story of their first father, Adam, having understood that he – 1) was created (Hebrew11:3), 2) fell and was cursed along with the earth (as is implied in the need for an offering as seen in Hebrews 11:4), and 3) was assured of the promise of restoration at some point (as is implied in the translation of Enoch in Hebrews 11:5). Each of these was understood from the early Genesis account, but they are lined up in the words of the author in a manner which reveals these truths in Hebrews. These men knew the story of these beginnings, they grasped the meaning behind them, and they looked forward in anticipation of seeing the plan come to its fruition. Thus, they walked as strangers and sojourners, awaiting the fulfillment of the promises. A city is prepared for them, and it is available to any and all who will come by faith. Life application: This verse tells us that our faith in, and anticipation of, a greater home – a better country than the one in which we live – is also a point which truly pleases God. When we put all of our time in the pleasures of this world even after God has promised something so much greater, we show a lack of faith in His promises. Look ahead to what God has planned and have faith that what is ahead is infinitely more wonderful than the temporary pleasures of this world. Thank You, Lord, for the wonderful promises of a greater life to come. These are found in the same word which tells us of Jesus making access to that life possible. We believe in Jesus, but surely we are limited in our ability to see beyond our current circumstances, and so give our souls a fresh filling of Your Spirit of promise so that we can rejoice, without fear or trepidation, in the promises of the life yet to come. Amen!
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Mar 15, 2019 0:23:00 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Hebrews 11:17, 14 March 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·THURSDAY, MARCH 14, 2019 Thursday, 14 March 2019 By faith Abraham, when he was tested, offered up Isaac, and he who had received the promises offered up his only begotten son, Hebrews 11:17 The author now returns to Abraham and his life of faith, once again saying, “By faith Abraham.” In verse 8, it was noted that he was called to move in order to receive an inheritance by faith. The author continued with that thought and included Isaac, Jacob, and Sarah in his words concerning what that meant. Now, still speaking of that same thought, he says, “when he was tested.” God had promised him an inheritance. By faith, he went to the land which would be received by his descendants as such. But along the way came a test of his faith. This was not because the Lord needed to know the faithfulness of Abraham’s heart, but so that Abraham might know it. Further, it was then to set an example of faithful obedience for those who would read the account and be encouraged to emulate the same faithful obedience to the Lord. And also, the Lord used the account to then show types and pictures of what God would do in His own Son, Jesus. The type, Isaac, anticipated the Anti-type, Christ Jesus. And so it says that Abraham “offered up Isaac.” The NKJV, following the KJV, misses the intent of what is said. The verb “offered up” is in the perfect tense. Abraham “had offered up.” The intent is to show that while the sacrifice was in the process of happening, Abraham had – for all intents and purposes – actually offered him up in his mind. To him, it was an accomplished fact (see James 2:21). A promise of inheritance is no good if there is no one to inherit it! And yet, God asked Abraham to offer up the son who was to be the one through whom the promise would be received. As can be seen, the author has not changed the subject at all. He is continuing on with the thought of the promised inheritance. As it says, “and he who had received the promises.” This is speaking of Abraham. The actual promise is found in Genesis 21 – “So the child grew and was weaned. And Abraham made a great feast on the same day that Isaac was weaned. 9 And Sarah saw the son of Hagar the Egyptian, whom she had borne to Abraham, scoffing. 10 Therefore she said to Abraham, ‘Cast out this bondwoman and her son; for the son of this bondwoman shall not be heir with my son, namely with Isaac.’ 11 And the matter was very displeasing in Abraham’s sight because of his son. 12 But God said to Abraham, ‘Do not let it be displeasing in your sight because of the lad or because of your bondwoman. Whatever Sarah has said to you, listen to her voice; for in Isaac your seed shall be called.’” Genesis 21:8-12 The Lord had spoken the word that Isaac was the son of promise, and it was through him that Abraham’s seed would be called. And yet, in Genesis 22, the Lord asked Abraham to offer up Isaac as a burnt offering. Being faithfully obedient, he “offered up his only begotten son.” As directed, Abraham followed the instructions of the Lord precisely. In doing so, the typology of the coming Christ was set. The Father would offer the Son, substitution for man’s sins would be effected, and life through Messiah was made possible. The land of inheritance, meaning reentry into God’s paradise, was realized. Canaan is a land which was (and continues to be) only typical of something greater. Abraham didn’t know these things, but God did – even knowing that Abraham would be willing to do them. Life application: Most people have heard of the account of Abraham and Isaac. It was “by faith” that Abraham was willing to offer up his son – the son of promise. In this verse, the NIV incorrectly states – “his one and only son.” Abraham had another son before Isaac named Ishmael. This error is repeated in the NIV in John 3:16 when the same terminology is used of Jesus, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son…” In fact, God claimed Israel as a son long before the advent of Jesus – “Thus says the Lord: ‘Israel is My son, My firstborn’” (Exodus 4:22). This is an important point in understanding redemptive history and divine election. In both Isaac and Jesus, they were the “only begotten” sons of promise, not the claimed “firstborn” sons, and thus we have the resulting concept of divine election. For a list of other “replacement seconds” of note in the Bible, one can refer to this link: www.wonderful1.com/page17.html. In addition to the second replacing the first, there is another wonderful parallel of Abraham/Isaac and God the Father/God the Son. Abraham had his son Isaac carry the wood on his back up the hill just as the Jesus carried the cross up to Calvary. The father was to perform the sacrifice, just as the Father allowed the great, final sacrifice. Both occurred in the same location as is indicated in Genesis 22:14, “In the Mount of the Lord it shall be provided.” Abraham said, “God himself will provide the lamb for the sacrifice.” and this is what happened in Christ – the Lamb of God was sacrificed for the sins of the whole world in the same place about 1900 years later. Truly, on the mountain of the Lord, God provided. Thank God for Jesus Christ our Lord. To watch the sermon, go to this link: Lord, thank you for the wonderful truths which are plainly evident through a study of Your word. Just as the first man, Adam, brought condemnation on all men, so faith in the second Man, Jesus, brings salvation to all who call on Him. Your word is perfect in all it teaches us. Thank You for the treasures it contains! Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Mar 15, 2019 23:40:59 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Hebrews 11:18, 15 March 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·FRIDAY, MARCH 15, 2019 Friday, 15 March 2019 ...of whom it was said, “In Isaac your seed shall be called,” Hebrews 11:18 The author now cites Scripture to support his previous statement. Taken together, the two verses read – “By faith Abraham, when he was tested, offered up Isaac, and he who had received the promises offered up his only begotten son, 18 of whom it was said, ‘In Isaac your seed shall be called.’” The translation here leaves a question concerning the words, “of whom.” Does this mean, “in regards to whom,” meaning Isaac, or “to whom,” and thus meaning Abraham. The answer is, “To whom,” and it should be translated that way. It is referring to Abraham (it is terminology used in the same manner as in Luke 19:9). This is cleared up by the actual citation from Genesis 21:12 – “But God said to Abraham, ‘Do not let it be displeasing in your sight because of the lad or because of your bondwoman. Whatever Sarah has said to you, listen to her voice; for in Isaac your seed shall be called.’” God made the promise to Abraham concerning the calling of his seed through Isaac. The importance of these words concerning Isaac are realized in the meaning of the phrase “shall be called.” The word qara, or “call,” at times carries with it the sense of “to be.” When God created the light in Genesis 1, it says, “God called the light Day.” He named the light Day, and from that time on it has been this way. It is a verbal state of being – the light equates to Day. Therefore, when God said to Abraham, “In Isaac your seed shall be called,” it is stating that the existence of Abraham’s seed will be reckoned through Isaac. And yet, in the very next chapter, before Isaac had borne any children, the Lord directed Abraham to offer Isaac up as a burnt offering. Despite this lack of descendants from the one upon whom the calling was named, Abraham followed through with his instruction. It demonstrates the highest faith to have done so. Life application: It is worth comparing the accounts of Abraham’s faithfulness as recorded in the Bible to that in the Koran. It is claimed by adherents to Islam that it was Ishmael, not Isaac, who was the child by which Abraham was tested – “We called him: ‘O Abraham.’ ‘You have believed the dream.’ We thus reward the righteous. That was an exacting test indeed. We ransomed (Ismail) by substituting an animal sacrifice. And we preserved his history for subsequent generations. Peace be upon Abraham. We thus reward the righteous. He is one of our believing servants.” Sura 37:104-111 First, notice that the name “Ismail” is surrounded by parenthesis. This indicates that the translator chose to insert the name as no name is mentioned in the Koran. Both books, therefore, indicate that Abraham was tested; however, only the Bible records the name of the son – Isaac. Further, the Koran acknowledges elsewhere that Isaac was the son of promise; a fact agreed upon by both faiths. The Bible’s complete and thorough use of the pattern whereby the first is replaced by the second is confirmed in the Ishmael/Isaac account. Finally, the biblical account predates that of the Koran by over 2000 years and the oldest documents still in existence actually predate the Koran by over 800 years. The Bible proves itself historically, scientifically, anthropologically, and prophetically concerning the nature of God, and in a host of other ways. The Koran fails in all of these. If you are one of the religious pluralists of the world who believe “all paths lead to God,” you need to study these matters and think them through. Jesus makes absolute claims and these are absolutely exclusive in nature. Make the right choice today. Choose Jesus. Lord, as truth is immutable, and as Your word claims to be truth, please give us understanding in it as we read it. And also, give us faith to accept it as Your inspired word. Help us not to be sidetracked by false systems of belief which can only take our eyes off of You. This we pray in Jesus’ name. Amen!
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Mar 16, 2019 23:42:08 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Hebrews 11:19, 16 March 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·SATURDAY, MARCH 16, 2019 Saturday, 16 March 2019 ...concluding that God was able to raise himup, even from the dead, from which he also received him in a figurative sense. Hebrews 11:19 This is speaking of the subject of the past two verses, Abraham’s sacrificing of Isaac. Abraham had been given the promises of an inheritance of the land, and that it would come through Isaac. And yet, God asked Abraham to offer Isaac up as a burnt offering. How could the two be reconciled? If Isaac was offered up, there would be no descendant through Isaac to fulfill the promise that a descendant would come through him. Abraham’s faith had to be tested immensely. But it had to be a very grounded faith in the capability of God, in order for both events to be true. He had to understand the nature of God; that He cannot lie. And he had to understand that God could do the otherwise seemingly impossible. Thus, in his mind, he concluded “that God was able to raise him up.” It is the only reasonable explanation for the two, seemingly contradictory, thoughts. If God has promised a son of inheritance through Isaac, and God cannot lie, then a son of inheritance MUST come through Isaac. And so Abraham went forward, in faith, to offer Isaac up. He logically concluded that God would raise him up, “even from the dead.” Abraham may have known the story of Adam. In fact, it is probable that he did. Adam was taken from the dust of the earth, fashioned into a man, the breath of life was breathed into him, and he became a living being. He may also have been aware of the life of Enoch – that he was translated without ever dying. And he certainly knew the story of the flood. Noah was still alive after the birth of Abraham. Moreover, Noah’s son Shem, who was on the ark with Noah, was alive during the entire duration of Abraham’s life. He may have personally known him and talked with him. Therefore, he was certainly aware of the fact that God could do pretty much anything, and he was aware that when God spoke, no matter how incredible the words seemed, they were to be trusted. And so Abraham put two and two together, coming up with four. He offered his son, logically and rationally understanding that he would receive his son from the dead, “from which he also received him in a figurative sense.” The meaning of this is that Abraham really and truly offered Isaac. The knife was raised, and in his mind, the sacrifice was already complete – but for the words which called forth – “Abraham, Abraham!” So he said, “Here I am.” 12 And He said, “Do not lay your hand on the lad, or do anything to him; for now I know that you fear God, since you have not withheld your son, your only son, from Me.” Genesis 22:11, 12 In his mind, Isaac was already dead, but he received him back as alive. The picture of the coming Christ was made, and the typology was set. In his mind, Isaac was – in fact – raised to life. The word translated as “figuratively” is parabole. It was used in Hebrews 9:9 and this is its last occurrence in the Bile. It is the same word used forty-eight times in the synoptic gospels which is translated as “parable.” The events of the Old Testament are parables of things that would be realized in reality in the Person and work of Jesus Christ. The sacrifice of Isaac became a familiar analogy for the world to grasp when Christ would become the true Son of sacrifice. Life application: Why was Abraham willing to offer his only begotten son, Isaac, as a burnt offering to the Lord? The answer depends on what you believe about the character of Abraham, about God’s sovereignty, and about the purpose of faith. During an interview I conducted of an elderly Jewish man for a college paper, the man said that what Abraham did was inexcusable, was not really what God intended, and resulted in his separation from Sarah his wife (though the Bible never claims this). This was the stand in the synagogue he attended, and it is a view which permeates their thought to this day. This is because to believe that Abraham’s actions were as God intended then points directly to the work of God in Messiah that they have rejected. But what Abraham did was based on his obedient character, on faith in God’s promises, and on the absolute sovereignty of God. Abraham believed God and God was pleased with him because of his faith. In the case of the account of Issac, this sound belief was that God could raise the dead. Ultimately this was proven in the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus. And, it will again be proven at the rapture of the church. But Abraham had no inclination of either of these occurrences. Rather, he understood that God had created, that all life is held in the hands of God, and that God has infinite ability to control His creation. Because of these things, Abraham faithfully took his son to Mt. Moriah, laid him on the altar of sacrifice, and raised his knife in preparation… But God called out. It wasn’t until 1900 years later that the greater sacrifice, one which was not stopped, happened there on that same mount. The ultimate sacrifice of Jesus demonstrated the infinite holiness, righteousness, justice, mercy, grace, truth, and love of God for the sons of Adam. Heavenly Father, it is hard for us to even comprehend that You didn’t spare Your own Son – and for beings such as us. Our hearts are stained with sin and wickedness, and yet You gave Christ for us! May we never fail to proclaim the glorious majesty of Your splendor. May we never fail to look to the cross in complete awe and wonder. All glory surely belongs to You alone. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Mar 17, 2019 19:23:05 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Hebrews 11:20, 17 March 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·SUNDAY, MARCH 17, 2019 Sunday, 17 March 2019 By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau concerning things to come. Hebrews 11:20 The author now moves to Abraham’s son of promise, Isaac. He completely skips over Ishmael as irrelevant to the continued history of the redemptive narrative. Though mentioned four times in Hebrews 11, this is the one instance of Isaac’s life which is selected for mention in the Hall of Fame of Faith. Again, as before, he says, “By faith...” What will be described is considered an act of faith because Isaac knew he was the son of promise. The words he was to pronounce were thus a divine oracle, and he was certain they would come out as prophesied. In his faith, “Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau.” In another example of divine election, the words place Jacob ahead of Esau even though Esau was the firstborn of Isaac. This selection wasn’t something that occurred later during their lifetimes and which should have surprised Isaac. Rather, when the twins were jostling in her womb, their mother Rachael was so disturbed that she inquired of the Lord about it. She asked, “If all is well, why am I like this?” And the divine response – “Two nations are in your womb, Two peoples shall be separated from your body; One people shall be stronger than the other, And the older shall serve the younger.” Genesis 25:23 Before either child was born, the Lord had already divinely elected Jacob over Esau. God’s sovereign choice continued through their descendants which became “two nations.” In Malachi 1:2, 3 the Bible records – “I have loved you,” says the Lord. “Yet you say, ‘In what way have You loved us?’ Was not Esau Jacob’s brother?” Says the Lord. “Yet Jacob I have loved; 3 But Esau I have hated, And laid waste his mountains and his heritage For the jackals of the wilderness.” Paul quotes this verse in Romans 9:13 when discussing God’s sovereignty. In relation to that choice of God, Isaac’s blessings came upon his sons when they were seventy-seven years old, and the words have borne the truths revealed in them for thousands of years. The two blessings are found in Genesis 27, and they reveal matters “concerning things to come.” The prophecies laid out the future destinies of the two sons, and they also pointed to truths found in redemptive history in regards to the coming Messiah. Isaac knew this and when confronted about the blessing upon Jacob by Esau, his response in Genesis 27:37 was, “Indeed I have made him your master, and all his brethren I have given to him as servants; with grain and wine I have sustained him. What shall I do now for you, my son?” Isaac spoke, in faith, of the surety of the outcome of the blessing, and thus he is rewarded by God – and noted here in faith’s great Hall of Fame – for his faith. Though he was old, and his eyes were so dim at that time that he could not see, he still had absolute clarity of spiritual sight in regards to these matters. He could see into the future, based upon the spoken words, and know with surety that they would come to pass. It is for this reason that Isaac, once again, blessed Jacob before he departed to Padam Aram in order to find a bride – “May God Almighty bless you, And make you fruitful and multiply you, That you may be an assembly of peoples; 4 And give you the blessing of Abraham, To you and your descendants with you, That you may inherit the land In which you are a stranger, Which God gave to Abraham.” Genesis 28:3, 4 Isaac understood that his first blessings upon Jacob and Esau would come true, and thus his second blessing upon Jacob clearly granted Jacob the continued promise of Abraham. Isaac was a man of faith, and he acted upon that faith, trusting that God’s ways were right and proper. Life application: Life seems unfair at times. People are born into different situations as determined by God, and rather than being unhappy about it, we need to accept our situation and work within the parameters of our station to bring the most glory to the Creator who placed us where we are for His purposes. This doesn’t mean we have to accept our plight and wallow in it without trying to better ourselves, but it does mean that whatever our station is, we should be content in it, even as we look to better it. O God,we often wonder why we were placed where we are. Help us, Lord, to bring glory to You by being the most faithful Christians that we can be – using the time, place, and circumstances You have dealt to us in lives which are worthy of the title of “Christian.” To Your honor and glory alone! Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Mar 18, 2019 22:28:24 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Hebrews 11:21, 18 March 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·MONDAY, MARCH 18, 2019 Monday, 18 March 2019 By faith Jacob, when he was dying, blessed each of the sons of Joseph, and worshiped, leaning on the top of his staff. Hebrews 11:21 The author now turns from Isaac to Isaac’s own son of promise, Jacob by stating, “By faith Jacob.” The author then looks to two defining moments in the life of the man. The life of Jacob spans Genesis 25-49, and it was a life which filled the pages of Scripture with countless exciting details. And yet, once again, the author focuses first on the act of blessing his progeny. When Jacob was very old and sick, Joseph came to his bedside with his own two sons, Manasseh and Ephraim. With Joseph at his side, and while dying, Jacob “blessed each of the sons of Joseph.” The account, found in Genesis 48, records very specific wording and actions in order to make a point about redemptive history. Jacob knowingly placed the younger son, Ephraim, above the elder, Manasseh. He did this understanding that Ephraim would grow to become, as he said, “a multitude of nations.” Like his father, he spoke the blessing with the surety that it would come to pass, exactly as spoken; and thus, this most significant act is recorded here in Hebrews. Along with that, a second moment of faith is also recorded about his life. It is that he “worshiped, leaning on the top of his staff.” This actually occurred prior to the blessing of Ephraim and Manasseh, in Genesis 47:31. The reason for having the two accounts chronologically backward is probably to first tie the blessing by Isaac of the previous verse in Hebrews in with the blessing by Jacob here. With that connection made, it then goes back in time to Genesis 47. The words here in Hebrews are a direct quote of the Greek translation of the Old Testament. The Hebrew reads, “So Israel bowed himself on the head of the bed.” The difference between the Hebrew word for “bed,” which is mittah, and “staff,” which is matteh, is only a few vowel points which didn’t exist when the Bible was written. They were added later to help in pronunciation, word clarity, and comprehension. The Greek is surely what is correct here. When the Hebrew scribes who inserted the vowel points did so, they probably indicated “bed” rather than “staff” to keep Jacob from looking as if he were using the staff as an idol. But if he were an old and feeble man, he would worship leaning on his staff simply to stay up. Either way, what is implied is that Jacob was thanking and praising God for what had occurred in the previous verses of that passage which concerned Joseph’s vow to Jacob to have his body interred in Canaan rather than Egypt. But more specifically, he asked to be buried in the burial place of his fathers which is a specific cave bought by Abraham. The purchase of that cave is recorded in Genesis 23. Instead of being buried with his beloved Rachel, he asked to be buried there instead. It was a significant spot which looked forward to the resurrection of the righteous. It is to this location that he asked for his remains to be interred. Thus, he is noted – in both of these instances – for faithfully looking forward to the promises of God and the growth of God’s people, far into the future. Such acts are demonstrations of great faith. Life application: As has been seen several times already, the doctrine of divine election is noted in this verse. Jacob’s blessing on Ephraim was a movement of the Holy Spirit which again directs the reader to an important truth in God’s redemptive plan for all of mankind. Jacob said that Ephraim would become melo ha’goyim or, literally, “a fullness of the Gentiles.” Understanding this passage led Paul to write his analysis of the Jewish/Gentile situation as is recorded in Romans 9-11. By God’s foreknowledge, Israel would reject their Messiah which would open the door to the Gentile-led church age. Ephraim, used as a synonym for the fullness of the Gentiles, would come to Christ through faith in His glorious work. In Romans 9:25, 26, Paul quotes the prophet Hosea to help us understand this mystery – “I will call them My people, who were not My people, And her beloved, who was not beloved.” 26 “And it shall come to pass in the place where it was said to them, ‘You are not My people,’ There they shall be called sons of the living God.” If you struggle with the thought of your salvation, for whatever reason, understand that it was something that God had known would occur all along. The fact that Jacob’s blessing, which occurred thousands of years ago, would point to the Gentiles being brought into His redemptive plans shows that God knew and purposed that you would be a part of His salvation found in Christ. Instead of fretting over your state of salvation, be grateful for it, and know that because of God in Christ, you are made acceptable to our heavenly Father. O Lord! Although Your word can often seem difficult to grasp, one thing is easy to understand – faith in Jesus equates to eternal salvation. Because of Your great love for the people of the world, You have given us the right to be called sons of the living God. All we can do in response is to shout praises to our mighty Lord! Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Mar 19, 2019 22:23:50 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Hebrews 11:22, 19 March 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·TUESDAY, MARCH 19, 2019 Tuesday, 19 March 2019 By faith Joseph, when he was dying, made mention of the departure of the children of Israel, and gave instructions concerning his bones. Hebrews 11:22 The author now turns from Jacob to Joseph, the beloved first son of his favored wife Rachel. He says, “By faith Joseph.” The whole recorded life of Joseph is one which is filled with amazing stories and faithful conduct. But of all of the things recorded of him which the author considered, the one he decided was most worthy of note was “when he was dying.” The word gives the sense of “drawing to an end.” Joseph knew that his days were coming to a close, and yet he gave specific instructions to his brothers. The words are recorded in Genesis 50 – “And Joseph said to his brethren, ‘I am dying; but God will surely visit you, and bring you out of this land to the land of which He swore to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob.’ 25 Then Joseph took an oath from the children of Israel, saying, ‘God will surely visit you, and you shall carry up my bones from here.’” Genesis 50:24, 25 In these words to his brothers, he “made mention of the departure of the children of Israel.” The word in Greek is “exodus.” It signifies a going out, or an exit. It is only found here and in Luke 9 and 2 Peter 1. The other two instances speak of the “departure” in leaving this body, meaning dying. In Luke, it refers to Jesus, and in 2 Peter, the apostle speaks of his own departure which was prophesied by Jesus. Here we have one who is drawing to an end, and thus ready to depart his body, but who speaks of the departure of Israel from Egypt. This was promised to his fathers before they ever entered into Egypt, and Joseph believed that it would be the case. Further, when Jacob had come down to Egypt, he made a promise to Joseph based on that assurance of departure – “Then Israel said to Joseph, ‘Behold, I am dying, but God will be with you and bring you back to the land of your fathers. 22 Moreover I have given to you one portion above your brothers, which I took from the hand of the Amorite with my sword and my bow.’” Genesis 48:21 Even though Joseph was set to die in Egypt, he had faith in the word of the Lord that the past promise would someday come about. Because of this, he “gave instructions concerning his bones.” Joseph was the second ruler in Egypt, and it was, therefore, appropriate that he should be buried among those he led, but he also desired that his final internment would not be in Egypt, but in Canaan. Having total faith that Israel would depart, he made his brothers give an oath that his remains would go out with them. The beginning of the promise was fulfilled, as is recorded in Exodus 13 – “And Moses took the bones of Joseph with him, for he had placed the children of Israel under solemn oath, saying, ‘God will surely visit you, and you shall carry up my bones from here with you.’”Exodus 13:19 The promise was completed some years later as is recorded in Joshua 24:32 – “The bones of Joseph, which the children of Israel had brought up out of Egypt, they buried at Shechem, in the plot of ground which Jacob had bought from the sons of Hamor the father of Shechem for one hundred pieces of silver, and which had become an inheritance of the children of Joseph.” Life application: Of all of the amazing things which Joseph did in his life from which the author could choose as an example of faith, this example of faith in a future he would not participate in while alive was selected. This should give us an indication as to what is also a demonstration of faithfulness in our lives – looking forward to the as yet unfulfilled promises of God and to the “better country” He has prepared for us. As directed, in Exodus 13:19, Moses and the children of Israel took Joseph’s bones with them when they departed the land of Egypt. Joshua 24:32 records the burial of these bones in Shechem, in the land Jacob promised Joseph and as Joseph had instructed. These events occurred several hundred years apart, but what may seem slow by our standards in coming to fulfillment doesn’t mean it won’t happen exactly as God has promised. Remember this lesson as you patiently wait on the promises of the Lord. He will carry His people to their promised inheritance. Lord, it is hard to wait on what we desire. We are earthly and constrained by time and decay. Because of this, we ask that You grant us Your Spirit of patience and control – even during the moments where nothing seems to occur as we would like. Thank You for granting us Your peace. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Mar 21, 2019 0:21:10 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Hebrews 11:23, 20 March 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·WEDNESDAY, MARCH 20, 2019 Wednesday, 20 March 2019 By faith Moses, when he was born, was hidden three months by his parents, because they saw hewas a beautiful child; and they were not afraid of the king’s command. Hebrews 11:23 The author now moves to Moses. He will be mentioned directly or indirectly in more verses in Hebrews 11 than any other figure. And, as usual, the author begins with, “By faith Moses.” However, this first noted act of faith is not directly by Moses, but by his parents. This is noted in the words, “when he was born, was hidden three months by his parents.” The parents of Moses were Amram and Jochebed. In the last verse of the first chapter of Exodus, it says – “So Pharaoh commanded all his people, saying, ‘Every son who is born you shall cast into the river, and every daughter you shall save alive.’” Exodus 1:22 This is followed immediately by these verses from Exodus chapter 2 – “And a man of the house of Levi went and took as wife a daughter of Levi. 2 So the woman conceived and bore a son. And when she saw that he was a beautiful child, she hid him three months. 3 But when she could no longer hide him, she took an ark of bulrushes for him, daubed it with asphalt and pitch, put the child in it, and laid it in the reeds by the river’s bank. 4 And his sister stood afar off, to know what would be done to him. Exodus 2:1-4 The account in Exodus ascribes the act of hiding Moses to the mother. And this would have been mostly her doing. The father would work and be concerned with the greater affairs of the household. The mother would be the one to accomplish the majority of the duty of hiding the newborn. But the father would not be unaware of the act, and he would bear moral responsibility for it. Therefore, both are mentioned here. And this is because “they saw hewas a beautiful child.” The Greek word is asteios, and it is only found here and in Acts 7:20 where it also speaks of the beauty of Moses. The word comes from astu, a city. And so this word literally means, “belonging to the city.” This is because a city is considered a place of polished manners and living. Thus, one could paraphrase this word as “he was a city dweller,” and the sense may be brought out. Because of the elegant nature of the child, the parents were all the more emboldened, “and they were not afraid of the king’s command.” The two aspects, that of the beauty of the child, and their not caring about obeying an immoral command, combined into their determination to hide the child. It is ascribed to them as an act of faith. Life application: Keeping the child would have resulted in death if they were caught, but by disobeying the edict for these three months they gave the baby a fighting chance – no matter how small – compared to that of a newborn. As Peter says in the book of Acts, “We ought to obey God rather than men” (Acts 5:29). Even after placing the child in the basket, they had Moses’ sister watch out for him until he was found and adopted by Pharaoh’s daughter. This account should remind us that God is working out all things for His purposes. Even when we don’t understand the sorrows or troubles we are facing, He does. Nothing you are facing is beyond God’s knowledge or is outside of His plans and purposes. Have faith, just as Amram and Jochebed did, even in the face of great hardship. Lord, give us the ability to trust that the sadness, loss, hardship, and uncertainty we face really do serve a higher and more glorious purpose. As hard as it is, help us to never grumble against Your perfect plan which is being worked out through us, Your children, through faith in Christ. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Mar 21, 2019 23:11:18 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Hebrews 11:24, 21 March 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·THURSDAY, MARCH 21, 2019 Thursday, 21 March 2019 By faith Moses, when he became of age, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter, Hebrews 11:24 The author now turns directly to Moses. Whereas the previous verse spoke of Moses only in relation to his parents, the faith of Moses himself is now highlighted. The author notes the account of Exodus 2:11, where he cites the Greek translation of that passage saying, “when he became of age.” The entire verse says – “Now it came to pass in those days, when Moses was grown, that he went out to his brethren and looked at their burdens. And he saw an Egyptian beating a Hebrew, one of his brethren.” This is then followed up by the author with the thought that he “refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter.” The text implies this in the next verse of Exodus 2, which says that “...he looked this way and that way, and when he saw no one, he killed the Egyptian and hid him in the sand” (Exodus 2:12). By aligning himself with the Hebrew people, he disassociated himself from his adopted family. He understood that he was, and would always be, a Hebrew. Though it would be many years later before he was truly aligned with them in a way which would benefit them, this first recorded act on his part demonstrated that his natural inclination was to be identified with the Hebrew people. The author will explain what this means concerningMoses the man in the verses ahead. Life application: It is important to be careful not to let movies or written stories over-influence our notion of biblical characters. Very little is said of Moses’ adopted mother or him during his youth. If you read Exodus 2:5-10, that’s all you’ll get about her and his early life from the Old Testament. The very next verse (verse 11) occurs when he is forty years old. The only other thing that we can determine from the Bible about the intervening years is recorded in Acts 7:20-22 during Stephen’s speech – “At this time Moses was born, and was well pleasing to God; and he was brought up in his father’s house for three months. 21 But when he was set out, Pharaoh’s daughter took him away and brought him up as her own son. 22 And Moses was learned in all the wisdom of the Egyptians, and was mighty in words and deeds.” Unfortunately, because of movies like The Ten Commandments, people mix story information with the Bible. This verse in Hebrews gives us an insight into Moses and his character not otherwise revealed elsewhere in the Bible, and which probably came from a source similar to that spoken by Stephen in Acts 7. This may have been an oral or a written tradition, but as it was written by an apostle under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, we can be certain of its accuracy. The Jewish historian Flavius Josephus records quite a bit of extra-biblical information on Moses which is interesting, but should that not be held as authoritative. All of the writings of Josephus can be found online by a simple internet search. Enjoy your studies, but be careful to remember what is, and what is not, Scripture. Lord God, how wonderful it is to read and know your word! Thank you that what the Bible records is useful for our instruction, our edification, and our contemplation. Thank you also for telling us about the faithful believers of the past. By reading about their lives, we can be built up in our faith as well. Thank You for having provided us so much in Your word to guide our steps. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Mar 22, 2019 23:59:37 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Hebrews 11:25, 22 March 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·FRIDAY, MARCH 22, 2019 Friday, 22 March 2019 ...choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God than to enjoy the passing pleasures of sin, Hebrews 11:25 The words continue from the previous verse, and are speaking of Moses who “refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter.” The author notes that instead of this, he chose “rather to suffer affliction.” The word rendered as “choosing” by the NKJV is an aorist verb. It is better rendered as “having chosen,” or “chose.” He made the decision, and it was final, not ongoing. Moses determined that suffering affliction was preferable to living in luxury in Egypt. And why, because it was “with the people of God.” If the people of God are the bearers of the promise, then what would be the point of a temporary life of luxury and ease? Moses looked past this life and made his decision. This fully explains the “By faith” which introduced this thought. Looking at the definition of faith as provided in verse 11:1, we can be reminded of this – “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” Moses, understanding that the Hebrew people are the people of God, then concluded that their temporary plight (as great and burdensome as it was) was working out a much greater glory in the plan of redemption set out by God so long ago. This is exactly what faith is – an anticipation of something hoped for, but not yet realized. How easy it would be if we could see the glorious riches of heaven and work our way up to them, proving ourselves worthy along the way. But the message of the Bible is that none are worthy apart from Christ (see the next verse of Hebrews to understand this more fully), and therefore, we must live by faith in something described in only minimal – but marvelous – detail. In suffering affliction with God’s people, Moses rejected the enjoyment of “the passing pleasures of sin.” How easy it is to enjoy the things of this world! And indeed, the more enjoyable they are, the more they tend to rank on the high side of the “sin scale.” This is because sin is an enticement for us to feel comfortable in this fallen world, apart from God. But God calls for holiness, and for a separation unto Him. This is because what is promised exceedingly outshines the greatest temptations of this life, but we can only accept this by faith. Further, the things of this world, including all of its sinful enticements, are “passing.” They are temporary and will be gone someday. There will be nothing left of them, and the joyful hope we put in them will suddenly be ended. However, the things of God and the promises He gives are “eternal.” If we can, by faith, accept this, then we are truly in the sweet spot. We do not have sight. And this is what we, along with the ancients, will be rewarded for. The thought of this verse is somewhat mirrored by 2 Corinthians 4 – “Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day. 17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, 18 while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal.” 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 Life application: As we have seen, Moses was adopted by Pharaoh’s daughter and was educated in all the wisdom of the Egyptians. Had he wanted, he could have lived a life of leisure and prosperity, and yet he chose a seemingly less enjoyable path, being mistreated along with God’s people. Although the Bible doesn’t specifically tell us what prompted this, we can infer where he obtained these values. In Exodus 2, we learned that when Moses was placed in the river, his sister stood at some distance waiting to see what would happen. When he was found we read the following – Then his sister said to Pharaoh’s daughter, “Shall I go and call a nurse for you from the Hebrew women, that she may nurse the child for you?” 8 And Pharaoh’s daughter said to her, “Go.” So the maiden went and called the child’s mother. 9 Then Pharaoh’s daughter said to her, “Take this child away and nurse him for me, and I will give you your wages.” So the woman took the child and nursed him. Exodus 2:7-9 Moses was still raised by his own mother for a certain period, but it was paid for at the expense of Egypt! In those early years, until he was old enough for adoption, he was most likely told about the one true God. This early training in monotheism certainly stayed with him all his life. The lesson each parent should take to heart is that even if the child strays at one time or another, if the foundation was properly laid, eventually the stability of that early instruction will outlast the temporary structures that were built on it. If you are struggling with a child who once accepted Christ and later strayed, join the club…it’s a big one. In the end, keep praying to God, and that restoration and a return to the foundation will hopefully come about. Lord, you know the struggles and trials we as parents face. You know how it hurts us to see our children wander from the truth. But Your word gives us hope through those days of sadness, because in such days is our anticipation that they will return to the solid foundation of a close walk with You. This is a great hope and comfort to our weary souls. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Mar 23, 2019 23:21:51 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Hebrews 11:26, 23 March 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·SATURDAY, MARCH 23, 2019 Saturday, 23 March 2019 ...esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt; for he looked to the reward.Hebrews 11:26 The author now builds upon the previous words concerning Moses’ refusal to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter. Taking this verse with the previous verse, and with that thought in mind, it says – “choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God than to enjoy the passing pleasures of sin, 26 esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt; for he looked to the reward.” In this verse, the author notes Moses’ “esteeming the reproach of Christ.” There are several major views on what this means. The first is that Moses understood that the promise of restoration made in Genesis 3:15 was to come through the Hebrew people. With this knowledge, he chose to suffer affliction with them, esteeming the reproach of Christ. Another view is that he simply suffered the types of sufferings that Christ suffered. In this, he would be a picture of Christ to come, but without any purposeful intent on his part. A third option is that the author of Hebrews is using this wording in relation to the general sufferings that were expected in the course of exercising one’s faith. As Christ is the epitome of any such example, the term, “the reproach of Christ,” is simply an idiomatic expression which conveys the meaning for any and all who suffer because of their faith. The only option which matches the intent of the passage is the first. Moses “refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter, choosingrather to suffer affliction.” The author has selected words which demonstrate that Moses made intentional choices with an end view in mind. It was because of who the Hebrew people were, and his understanding of their role, that he willingly made his choice. This is made clear in Exodus 2:11 where it says, “And he saw an Egyptian beating a Hebrew, one of his brethren.” In his response to this, he killed the Egyptian, rejecting his adopted status because he esteemed “the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt.” As an adopted Egyptian, he could have joined in pounding on the Hebrew, laughing it off as an exercise in fun, and then gone home to his treasures. But, in having known about the promise, he looked forward to the promise instead. This is all the more certain, because the Greek includes an article which is unfortunately disregarded by both the KJV and the NKJV. It does not say, “the reproach of Christ,” but rather, “the reproach of the Christ.” It is not a general statement concerning a shadowy representation of Moses and Jesus, but a definite anticipation of the Christ to come. Moses knew Christ was promised, he looked forward to that promise, and instead of being content with the earthly treasures he already possessed, “he looked to the reward.” Moses understood that the anticipation of Messiah was man’s highest goal. Nothing else in this life compares to what is anticipated in the promise of Messiah. It must be so because the promise was made at the very fall of man. If a promise has been made for something, until the promise is fulfilled, it is the highest anticipation of anything which comes in that same category. For example, if one enjoys soda and is given all of the types of soda on earth to drink, and he is given a promise of the best soda coming at some future point, then that is the highest anticipation. All the other sodas will be enjoyed only with a view to the best which is yet to come, because they cannot compare to the promised beverage of delight. In the promise of Messiah, coming right at the fall of man, it is thus implicitly a promise which exceeds anything since the fall of man. In His coming is the promise of all things better than that which exists prior to His coming. And in His coming, the highest benefits of all will be realized. Moses “looked to the reward” of Messiah, and he forsook the temporary, earthly, and wholly deficient treasures which could never satisfy. Life application: What are you willing to give up for Christ? What challenge is too great? What loss is unacceptable? Jesus said it as clearly as is possible – “For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?” Matthew 16:26 Outside of Christ, there is no other ticket, no other avenue, no other payment for the soul. Moses, although not fully understanding the mystery of Christ, knew enough to accept disgrace for His sake. He knew there was a reward for his faith and his faithfulness. And so he stepped away from the riches of Egypt, which are no riches at all, and into the true wealth of his Creator. If you have accepted Christ, what are you willing to give up that He may be glorified? People are dying in foreign lands without ever hearing of Jesus. A thousand languages on earth still don’t have a single verse of Scripture in their own language. People are walking by churches without ever being invited in to hear the good news. When you go out today, think on the “walking dead” you encounter and have compassion. Eternity is a long time. The soul without Christ is an unimaginable horror. In all you do, leave the comfort of your riches and look forward to the life which is truly life. As Paul so beautifully said it – “But what things were gain to me, these I have counted loss for Christ. 8 Yet indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them as rubbish, that I may gain Christ...” Philippines 3:7, 8 Jesus, You have given us the examples of faith which are pleasing to You. Included in these is that of Moses. He walked away from the greatest wealth the world had to offer. But that was no wealth at all compared to the surpassing wealth of sharing in You. May we be so moved to follow You wherever we are led! Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Mar 24, 2019 21:22:55 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Hebrews 11:27, 24 March 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·SUNDAY, MARCH 24, 2019 Sunday, 24 March 2019 By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king; for he endured as seeing Him who is invisible.Hebrews 11:27 The account continues with Moses, but it contains a thought which seems contradictory to the Exodus account. The author proclaims, “By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king.” Is this to be tied in with the previous thought of verses 24-26, or is it to be taken with the next thought concerning the Passover. 1) If it is connected to his first departure from Egypt to Midian, then it contradicts the account as recorded. The words of Exodus 2 read, “So Moses feared and said, ‘Surely this thing is known!’ 15 When Pharaoh heard of this matter, he sought to kill Moses. But Moses fled from the face of Pharaoh and dwelt in the land of Midian; and he sat down by a well” (Exodus 2:14, 15). The record stands that “he feared.” 2) If it is connected to the Passover, then it is out of order because the Passover preceded the Exodus. The answer is that during his time away from Egypt, Moses encountered the Lord, was established in his faith, and was encouraged by the promise of the presence and assistance of his brother Aaron. These things are recorded in Exodus 3 & 4 and in Exodus 4:29-31, where Moses came to the elders of the children of Israel and showed them the signs the Lord had given him to bring about their release. In Exodus 5:1, it then says, “‘“Afterward Moses and Aaron went in and told Pharaoh, ‘Thus says the Lord God of Israel: “Let My people go, that they may hold a feast to Me in the wilderness.”’” Moses had grown in his courage and no longer feared the wrath of the king. In his return to Egypt, he as the acknowledged representative of Israel, forsook Egypt. He was spiritually prepared for the challenge ahead as the plagues of Egypt led to the time of Israel’s release from their bondage. This is why the next two verses, which will still refer to Moses, speak first of the keeping of the Passover, but also say that “he kept the Passover” in the singular, even though all of Israel kept it, and then it says, “they passed through the Red Sea,” in the plural. Moses stood as representative of Israel, and Israel was led by Moses. Thus what he forsook, Israel also forsook. And both did so “not fearing the wrath of the king.” And this was because “he endured as seeing Him who is invisible.” These words confirm that the first clause is speaking not of his exile to Midian, but of his time of endurance while facing Pharaoh. Moses never saw God in the burning bush. The flames simply made His presence known. He heard the voice, and he continued to hear the voice direct him throughout his time prior to the people’s exodus; and he endured, understanding that the voice which instructed him was as sure as if seeing Him. Life application: It was by faith that Moses endured as seeing Him who is invisible. What an incredible statement! It has been said, “What is more foolish, a man who believes in a God he cannot see, or a man who is angry about a God he doesn’t believe in.” Moses had never actually seen God. Instead, he had seen a burning bush which spoke to him, but the bush actually hid the glory of God. It was a visible manifestation provided for Moses’ sake. In the end, though, it was faith in a God he couldn’t see that gave him the strength and fortitude to not fear Pharaoh. Such is the case with each believer in Christ. We can’t “see” God anymore today than Moses did then. And Jesus has ascended to the Father so that we cannot now see Him either. But what did He say to His disciples – Jesus said to him, “Thomas, because you have seen Me, you have believed. Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” John 20:29 All we have is the Bible to tell us of Jesus. When we accept Him, we are indwelt with the Holy Spirit, whom we also can’t see. Therefore, we are living by faith and not by sight. Our hope and trust is in the One who can make the invisible visible, the unknowable knowable, who unites the infinite with the finite. Because of Jesus, we can have fellowship where it once didn’t exist and we can have peace in place of anxiety. If you are facing troubles because of your Christian walk – whether in the workplace, with family members, or in any other way – then remember Moses’ example. By faith, he saw Him who was invisible and was found pleasing to God because of that faith. Be strong and unwavering in your convictions about the Person and work of Jesus. Lord Jesus, give us wisdom to follow You and to trust Your word as the rule and guide of our lives. Give us faith to not fear those who persecute us because of our love and devotion to You. And Lord, we look forward with anticipation to that day when our faith will become sight – when we see the beauty of Your majesty in person. What a happy day that will be! Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Mar 25, 2019 22:56:37 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Hebrews 11:28, 25 March 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·MONDAY, MARCH 25, 2019 Monday, 25 March 2019 By faith he kept the Passover and the sprinkling of blood, lest he who destroyed the firstborn should touch them.Hebrews 11:28 Still speaking of the faith of Moses, the author again states, “By faith.” What will be described was obviously an act of faith. It was something which was stated would occur, and the consequences for not doing as instructed would be fatal for the firstborn sons in the land. It is “By faith that he kept the Passover.” The Greek more precisely reads, “By faith he instituted the Passover.” Moses did not keep a Passover that was already observed from time past. Rather, he observed it for the first time, bringing it forth from that time forward. The Greek is in the perfect tense, signifying the completion of the act in the original Passover, and the continued significance of that observance, even down to the time of the author’s writing of the epistle. The author continues on with “and the sprinkling of the blood.” This speaks of the application of the blood on the doorposts and lintel of each of the houses in Egypt. This was never done again after the first observance, showing the completed nature of the Passover, despite it having on-going observances in the future. The first Passover alone set the type for the coming of Christ, and all other annual observances looked forward to the fulfillment anticipated by that first Passover. This is also true with the final clause, “lest he who destroyed the firstborn should touch them.” Again, the Greek reads differently than this. A closer translation would be, “lest the destroyer of the firstborn,” or “the one destroying the firstborn.” It is a present participle. It is as if the author is describing the first Passover as it was happening to Moses while he was writing down the events in the epistle. These things that occurred to Moses required faith. The Lord said what would occur, and any who didn’t believe and failed to act would suffer the consequences. Those who did believe, and who followed through in their belief by applying the blood, would be passed over. Thus, in this, Moses instituted the Passover for all generations who followed. From that typology, the fulfillment is found in the work of Christ Jesus and the acceptance of His work by the people of the world. Life application: To this day, Jewish families around the world observe the Passover. It symbolized the redemption of the people from Egypt and its bitter bondage. An innocent lamb was killed, and its blood was applied to the lintel and sides of the door as a sign that there were faithful believers inside the home. When the destroyer saw the blood, he passed over. As it says, “by faith” Moses instituted this ordinance and applied the blood. The blood is the material cause of salvation, while faith in its application is the instrumental cause. Under the New Covenant, Paul says in the Colossians 2:16, 17 – “So let no one judge you in food or in drink, or regarding a festival or a new moon or sabbaths, 17 which are a shadow of things to come, but the substance is of Christ.” The Passover, along with all of Israel’s other mandates which came under the law, was only a shadow which prefigured the work of Jesus. Jesus, as John states in his gospel account, is the true Lamb of God. It is His sacrifice that brings us out of real bondage – that of slavery to sin. It is faith in what He did that redeems us and gives us new life. The question for every person then is, “Have you applied the blood of Christ, by faith, to your heart?” Christ’s blood is the material cause of salvation. Faith in his shed blood is the instrumental cause. Belief in the heart fulfills the typology of the application of blood (see Romans 10:9, 10). As the Passover only looked forward to Christ, then it is Christ alone who can truly save you from destruction. Again, as Paul says, “For indeed Christ, our Passover, was sacrificed for us.” As Moses acted by faith, so those who look for salvation, while living in this world, must also look to what God has done, in faith. Have faith in Him and in His work, and you too, like Moses, will be known as one of God’s faithful – chosen and loved. Thank you, O God, for the precious Lamb, our Lord Jesus. Thank You for freeing us from the chains which bound us in slavery to sin and which could only result in death. Now, through Christ and His sacrifice, we are not only free from condemnation, but we have also been given new and eternal life! Hallelujah and Amen!
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Mar 26, 2019 23:37:33 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Hebrews 11:29, 26 March 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·TUESDAY, MARCH 26, 2019 Tuesday, 26 March 2019 By faith they passed through the Red Sea as by dry land, whereas the Egyptians, attempting to do so, were drowned. Hebrews 11:29 The author, speaking of the time of Moses, now goes from the singular, “he,” of verses 27 & 28 and includes the entire congregation of Israel by saying, “By faith they.” This corresponds to the word “them” at the end of verse 28. Moses has stood for the whole until that point, and now the whole is said to have possessed the same faith as he did. With the faith of the corporate body revealed, it then says that “they passed through the Red Sea as by dry land.” The memorable account is recorded in Exodus 13. There was a sea in front of Israel, no way to travel to the right or to the left, and the Egyptians were behind them. The only avenue of escape was for the sea to be divided. The Lord did this. Israel passed through with a wall of water on each side of them, and they were delivered. The words of the New Testament are important in identifying which body of water is meant. The Greek specifically reads Erythran Thalassan, or “the Red Sea.” The Hebrew words in the Exodus account are yam suph. Many translate this as “the Sea of Reeds,” because suphmeans “reed.” Because of this, the account of crossing through the Red Sea is often denied and instead it is said that Israel simply passed throudgh a shallow marsh or one of the bitter lakes. This is incorrect. First, the word suphas a verb means “end,” such as in the termination of something. Thus, the sea could be known as “the sea at the ending,” which is in relation to the land of Israel where the land ends at one of the fingers of the Red Sea. This is seen in 1 Kings which uses the same term, yam suph- “King Solomon also built a fleet of ships at Ezion Geber, which isnear Elath on the shore of the Red Sea, in the land of Edom.” 1 Kings 9:26 The locations Elath and Edom show without a doubt what this means. The Bible is simply using a term where Israel is situated as its reference point. This occurs elsewhere in the Exodus account as well. Further, one would not build a fleet of ships for sailing in the ocean and place them in a marshy sea of reeds. And finally, the New Testament definitively identifies the body in this verse (and elsewhere) as Erythran Thalassan, or Red Sea. This corresponds to the Greek translation of the Old Testament of these passages. Thus it was alwaysunderstood to be the Red Sea, not a swampy marsh of reeds. Understanding that this is the body of water, and not a shallow lake of reeds, the verse then says, “whereas the Egyptians, attempting to do so, were drowned.” The Greek literally reads, “were swallowed up.” This then corresponds to the words of the Song of Moses in Exodus 15:12 – “You stretched out Your right hand; The earth swallowed them.” They were drowned, but they were also swallowed up as if consumed in a meal. The difference in fate between Israel and the Egyptians came down to one word, faith. The people believed in the Lord, and they were delivered by Him. The Egyptians didn’t, and they were swallowed up. Life application: As noted above, while at the final point before crossing, the Israelites were hemmed in on all sides. The name of the place where they were was Pi Hahiroth, “mouth of caverns.” This indicates they were wholly closed in. The people were certainly afraid and questioned Moses about the decisions which had brought them to the seemingly impossible position they were in, however – “And Moses said to the people, ‘Do not be afraid. Stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord, which He will accomplish for you today. For the Egyptians whom you see today, you shall see again no more forever. 14 The Lord will fight for you, and you shall hold your peace.’” Exodus 14:13, 14 Following that, it says, “Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea; and the Lord caused the sea to go back by a strong east wind all that night, and made the sea into dry land, and the waters were divided” (Exodus 14:21). The entire Egyptian army didn’t drown in knee deep water. If they did, that would be a greater miracle than the parting of the sea. Just as the Israelites had faith and passed through “the Red Sea as by dry land,” so you should have faith that: 1) The Bible’s record of events is true, and 2) God will safely bring you out of whatever bondage, difficulty, or trial you are facing. Trust in Him with all your heart and soul, even when you’re hemmed in from all sides. Have faith that the Lord loves you and will deliver you. Lord, from time to time I can feel the walls hemming me in – creditors, bitter family members, physical pains, troubles, trials, and afflictions! But You O God … I trust You to keep me from drowning under this Sea of Woes and to carry me safely and triumphantly to Your better home. Until that day, I rejoice in Your splendid hand. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Mar 27, 2019 22:58:50 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Hebrews 11:30, 27 March 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·WEDNESDAY, MARCH 27, 2019 Wednesday, 27 March 2019 By faith the walls of Jericho fell down after they were encircled for seven days. Hebrews 11:30 The author now turns from Moses to the times of the man who replaced him as leader of Israel, Joshua. Of the recorded life of Joshua, nothing is specifically said concerning his faith, despite the faith he and Caleb displayed in the book of Numbers. Rather, the accounts recorded during his leadership of Israel deal with the siege of Jericho – the collapsing of its walls and the faith of a harlot who lived within those walls. In this verse, the words begin with, “By faith the walls of Jericho fell down.” The author takes the account at face value and accepts Scripture exactly as it is written. The city had walls, and those walls were unable to protect the city. They came down not by the power of the besieging army, but it was rather by faith in the word of the Lord. He told them what would occur, and Israel simply obeyed His word, believed what He said, and what He said is what came to pass. The walls “fell down after they were encircled for seven days.” The entire account is found in Joshua 6. During those seven days, Israel marched around the city, doing as the Lord instructed. There would have been taunts and jeers at the army as they did so. But not a word was spoken by them in reply. For six days, they marched around the city one time each day, doing as instructed as they marched. On the seventh day, they marched around the city seven times. At the sound of the trumpets, the people gave a great shout and the walls fell down. The entire event required faith that the Lord would perform as He promised, and their faith was rewarded. John Chrysostom says of this event, “The soundings of trumpets, though one were to sound for ten thousand years, cannot throw down walls, but faith can do all things.” It is a lesson for us to remember, and it is an account that asks us to be faithful to the word of the Lord. He has spoken; He will perform. Life application: Archaeologically, this is one of the stories of the Bible that non-believers have spent a great deal of time trying to disprove. Unlike many other accounts, this one can be verified by simply going to the site and looking over the ruins. The evidence has been substantiated by believers and supposedly disproved by non-believers. Each determination was based on the scientist’s findings of how they perceive what occurred in the Bible and how that relates to their larger worldview. In the end, the Bible account is the only eye-witness testimony for the destruction of Jericho. All of history past can only be known by what was written about it and/or diligently piecing together the evidence based on the preserved remains. Here is what the Bible says about this particular incident – “So the people shouted when the priests blew the trumpets. And it happened when the people heard the sound of the trumpet, and the people shouted with a great shout, that the wall fell down flat. Then the people went up into the city, every man straight before him, and they took the city.” Joshua 6:20 Regardless of the fight among archaeologists, the account in the Bible stands as recorded evidence. If it were untrue, one would think that the surrounding nations could have just as easily recorded their side of the story. No such record exists. In fact, no part of the Bible has ever been disproved. Remember, not every Bible story has as yet been proved true, but that which has been studied has always vindicated the biblical account. Just as the Israelites had faith to march around the walls in obedience, God asks you to have faith that what is recorded in His word is true as well. What the Bible records forms a sure foundation for our faith; a faith that can never stumble if it rests ultimately in the Person of Jesus. Lord, it sure is wonderful to read the stories recorded in Your word and to see how they fit into redemptive history. Each account serves a particular purpose in helping us to understand You and how we are to interact with You. Thank You for the story of real events about real people who, like us, are part of Your wonderful unfolding story. Amen!
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Mar 28, 2019 23:13:54 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Hebrews 11:31, 28 March 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·THURSDAY, MARCH 28, 2019 Thursday, 28 March 2019 By faith the harlot Rahab did not perish with those who did not believe, when she had received the spies with peace. Hebrews 11:31 The author now turns to Rahab, the harlot found in Joshua 2 & 6, and who is recorded in Matthew 1:5 in the genealogy of Christ Jesus. She is then mentioned here in Hebrews, and once again in James 2:25. He begins with, “By faith the harlot Rahab.” What he will detail is considered as an act of faith worthy of note, and which led to her being brought into the nation of Israel, joining with them according to their law, marrying a man, and from them would continue the line of Messiah – first through David, and then on down to Christ Jesus. Rahab would have been David’s great-great-grandmother, the wife of Salmon. Here though, it specifically calls her, “the harlot.” Some scholars argue that the Hebrew word used to describe her as a harlot doesn’t necessarily mean that, and that she was probably an innkeeper. First, that is rubbish, but secondly, the Greek word here, porné, clearly identifies her (as does the Hebrew) as a prostitute. There is no mincing of the word. And yet, despite this, she “did not perish with those who did not believe.” This is a poor choice of translation. It should read, “those who were disobedient.” The people were disobedient to the natural knowledge of God, and they were set for destruction even before Israel’s entry into Canaan. Their time had come, but Rahab knew this and believed in the power of God and the surety of what was to come upon Jericho. She believed “when she had received the spies with peace.” The coming of the spies to Rahab’s house was certainly done with intent. How does one spy out a city without raising too much alarm? Ask for the local prostitute! By going into her home, nothing unusual would ever be suspected. In her reception of the spies, and in the details of the surrounding narrative, which was carefully recorded in Scripture, a fallen women is raised to the high position of a woman of faith, and a prostitute was entered into the genealogy of the coming Messiah. As a point of theology concerning the issue of justification, the accounts of Abraham offering up Isaac, and this account of Rahab receiving the spies, are both used in James 2 to support an idea which has been highly misunderstood in the church. James 2:24 says, “You see then that a man is justified by works, and not by faith only.” However, Paul says in Romans 3 – “Where is boasting then? It is excluded. By what law? Of works? No, but by the law of faith. 28 Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith apart from the deeds of the law.” How are these two reconciled? The answer is found in this passage of Hebrews 11. The exact same examples used by James are those which are addressed now in Hebrews, offering up Isaac, and receiving the spies. James calls them “works,” but the author of Hebrews says of both of them, “By faith...” Therefore, they are “works of faith.” In other words, faith is the basis for their works. They are not deeds of law, but they are works which spring out of faith. In the end, it is the faith which justifies. If works are included in the act of faith, they are still works of faith; and it is the faith behind the works which receives the reward, not the deed itself because the deeds are merely an expression of the faith. The example of Franklin and Bill, which was detailed in the commentary on Hebrews 11:4, shows this. This will be more specifically explained when we arrive at James 2:24 in due time (the Lord permitting). Until then, it needs to be remembered that all deeds of faith find their reward in the faith, not the deed itself. Life application: Thinking on the account of Rahab, it is hoped that you will realize that it doesn’t matter what you’ve done in your life, or how badly you’ve messed things up, Jesus will accept you if you will simply have faith. Then someday you too will be mentioned in heaven’s great Hall of Fame of Faith. Lord, the story of Rahab shows that even a prostitute can be cleansed of her life and brought into your flock! This encourages us that our lives can also be used for Your glory despite the things we may have done wrong. Give us the ability to look forward in faith, and to leave behind all the wrongdoings of our past lives. This we pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Mar 29, 2019 22:47:01 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Hebrews 11:32, 29 March 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·FRIDAY, MARCH 29, 2019 Friday, 29 March 2019 And what more shall I say? For the time would fail me to tell of Gideon and Barak and Samson and Jephthah, also ofDavid and Samuel and the prophets: Hebrews 11:32 The author has, by the completion of the previous verse, set the general tone of what faith means and how it is demonstrated. He has covered all of the period of time, from creation to that of the patriarchs, and even to the time of Joshua and the conquest of Canaan. The last person noted was Rahab the harlot. From there, he says, “And what more shall I say?” He knows that the list could go on throughout the rest of Scripture, but instead he notes that such a list would take more time than the Lord has permitted in His inspired epistle. And so he says, “For the time would fail me.” It is an expression which confirms that there is not sufficient time to note all of those of faith by name, and to then also note the individual instances which they should be recognized for. If he had sufficient time, he would “tell of Gideon and Barak.” Barak’s life and deeds are recorded in Judges 4 & 5. Gideon’s are recorded in Judges 6-8. From there, he notes, “and Samson and Jephthah.” The life and times of Jephthah are found in Judges 11, 12; and those of Samson are found in Judges 13-16. Next, he says, “also of David and Samuel.” The birth through the death of Samuel is recorded in 1 Samuel 1-25. The main record of the life of David is recorded from 1 Samuel 16 – 1 Kings 2. If you notice, the author mentioned each coupling of names in reverse order of their actual appearance in Scripture: Gideon – Barak Samson – Jephthah David – Samuel However, each coupling leads in the proper order to the next coupling. In each of these couplings, the most prominent name is first. Gideon is more renowned than Barak, Samson is more renowned than Jephthah, and David is more renowned than Samuel. Further, each first has more recorded about him in Scripture than the second. Finally, the author notes, “and the prophets.” The entire list of the many prophets of Israel is summed up in those words. From here, the author will lightly touch upon the deeds of faith for which these many people are generally noted. Verses 11:32-34 record deeds of active faith, whereas verses 35-38 record deeds of passive faith. Life application: From this verse, through verse 38, we are told of a range of people and of the various trials they faced as they demonstrated faith worthy of a true saint. As you think on their situations, remember their failings as well. Maybe you will see yourself mirrored in them and be encouraged that the Lord can use you in a great way. Gideon (Judges 6-8) was so unsure of his own abilities that he asked the Lord for a sign. When he received it, he asked for another… not the most confident soul in town. Barak (Judges 4) was told by Israel’s judge (Deborah) that the Lord had commanded him to take an army of men and that he would defeat Israel’s enemies. In verse 8 it says “And Barak said to her, ‘If you will go with me, then I will go; but if you will not go with me, I will not go!’”Instead of believing the Lord’s directive, he questioned the command’s validity. By asking Deborah to go, he was checking both her truthfulness and the surety of the Lord’s word. Samson (Judges 13-16) was set apart from birth to God and became Israel’s judge. However, he had a weak will towards women, was over-confident in his own abilities, and he often took revenge that wasn’t proportionate to offenses made against him. Jephthah (Judges 11-12) was the son of a prostitute. He made a rash vow to sacrifice the first living thing that came out of his house. To his horror, it was his own daughter. However, his vow stood and he performed his vow at her expense. David committed adultery, murder, and other grievous sins. However, with a faithful and repentant heart, he was considered Israel’s great king and sweet psalmist. Samuel was Israel’s last judge. He failed to restrain his own children and raise them properly. This resulted in the end of Israel’s theocracy and a turn to an earthly kingship rule. Are you seeing any of your failings in these men of faith? If so, then understand that despite them, God looked on their faithful and repentant hearts. He also looked on their deeds of faith, and He accepted them, forgiving every sin and trespass. Lord God, it sure is good to look back on the people recorded in Scripture, and who are then noted in the book of Hebrews, and to see that they are not unlike me. But even with their failings, You have placed them in Your Hall of Fame of Faith. This gives me hope that I too may someday be remembered, not for my failings, but for my heart which is devoted to You. Thank You that You grant us a right standing with You through simple faith in the Person and work of Jesus. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Mar 30, 2019 23:45:08 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Hebrews 11:33, 30 March 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·SATURDAY, MARCH 30, 2019 Saturday, 30 March 2019 ...who through faith subdued kingdoms, worked righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions, Hebrews 11:33 The author now turns to the active acts of faith of those who had gone before, and whose deeds are mentioned in this Hall of Fame of Faith. Some of these acts are obviously stated about single individuals. The event can be specifically identified as to who he was thinking about. Other noted acts of faith can be applied to several different people as they are more general in nature. Also, these recorded acts are not constrained to those in the previous verse, showing that both their names, and these now-mentioned deeds, are general listings which came to mind, and are not directly connected to one another. He gave names, he now gives events, and both lists are just his general thoughts. Understanding this, he begins with, “who through faith subdued kingdoms.” The Greek word translated as “subdued” is a compound word found only here in Scripture. It gives the sense of “struggling against,” and thus by implication, to “overcome.” This could be applied to a host of stories in the Old Testament. In Genesis 14, Abraham led a war party with three hundred and eighteen of his trained servants and fought against the kings mentioned there. Moses led Israel when they faced several adversaries, starting with Pharaoh, king of Egypt. The list goes on throughout the history of Israel in judges, kings, and even common people. The author next says that some “worked righteousness.” This isn’t merely speaking of the personal righteous behavior of an individual, but of the dispensing of righteousness by someone. These people dealt in accord with God’s law and His expected standards. Working righteousness can include the destruction of God’s enemies, which is according to His will, and it can include faithfully upholding covenants made with others. The actions which are in accord with His laws, standards, and judgments are noted in many people throughout Israel’s history. The author next says that some “obtained promises.” Hebrews 6:15 said of Abraham that “after he had patiently endured, he obtained the promise.” This is the idea here. It speaks of temporal promises which people faithfully believed would be fulfilled. A marvelous example is found in the New Testament, but which fits perfectly with the thought expressed by the author here – And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon, and this man was just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. 26 And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. 27 So he came by the Spirit into the temple. And when the parents brought in the Child Jesus, to do for Him according to the custom of the law, 28 he took Him up in his arms and blessed God and said: 29 “Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace, According to Your word; 30 For my eyes have seen Your salvation 31 Which You have prepared before the face of all peoples, 32 A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, And the glory of Your people Israel.” Luke 2:25-32 Finally, the verse ends with the words, “stopped the mouths of lions.” This is a direct reference to the prophet Daniel as is recorded in Daniel 6. It could also be indirectly applied to David who “killed both lion and bear” (1 Samuel 17:36), or Samson who “tore the lion apart as one would have torn apart a young goat” (Judges 14:6). It could even be taken metaphorically of the defeat of an enemy in battle who is compared to a lion (see 2 Samuel 23:20). Such references reveal the faithful character of these heroes of the faith. Life application: The Lord took these fallible, and often weak-willed, men and used them for His glory and for our edification. Their stories have echoed down through time. Each one of them has been used as an example by similarly weak-willed people who have gone on, in the strength of the Lord, to accomplish tasks which would otherwise be impossible. And so, you too can read about these people and then determine to accomplish whatever task is set before you. If the future – whether the immediate or distant – looms with difficulty, take to heart the wonderful examples noted here. Insert your name into the Hall of Fame of Faith by trusting in the grand and splendid provision of Jesus Christ. He will never leave you; He will never forsake you. Heavenly Father – I am simply overwhelmed to know that Your hand is with me in the tasks You have chosen for my life. Give me the courage and ability to never sway from bringing you the glory and honor that You are due. All hail the GLORIOUS name of Jesus who has made this possible by bringing me close to You once again. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Apr 1, 2019 0:33:29 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Hebrews 11:34, 31 March 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·SUNDAY, MARCH 31, 2019 Sunday, 31 March 2019 …quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, became valiant in battle, turned to flight the armies of the aliens. Hebrews 11:34 The list of deeds of the faithful continues in this verse. Here, the author reminds us of the great faith of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, three men who stood against the king of Babylon at the risk of being thrown into a fiery furnace. As it says of them, they “quenched the violence of fire.” The words should rather say, “quenched the power of fire.” The account is found in Daniel 3. When so threatened, they responded as one – “If that is the case, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and He will deliver us from your hand, O king. 18 But if not, let it be known to you, O king, that we do not serve your gods, nor will we worship the gold image which you have set up.” Daniel 3:17 The author next says that some “escaped the edge of the sword.” The word “edge” is literally “mouth,” and it is in the plural. The edge of the sword is likened to a devouring instrument that consumes souls. Being in the plural, the symbolism is that of cutting both ways and causing maximum damage. To escape “the edges of the sword” is to then have been spared in a remarkable way. It is as if there was nowhere to go, and yet relief was found. There was a trust in God, and God delivered them. David and Elijah both escaped such a sword, as did others in various accounts, but it may be that the term, which is exactingly used by Jeremiah and Ezekiel, is what is on the author’s mind. Jeremiah prophesied of those who would escape the sword when exiled to Egypt, returning again to Judah. It may be that these were the only exiles who had faith in the Lord, and the Lord returned them based on that. In Ezekiel, it speaks of those who “escape the sword” from among the nations as well. The few people of faith, living in exile, would be spared. The author next says, “out of weakness were made strong.” Here, it should say, “from weakness.” This is not necessarily speaking of someone who was sick or debilitated and then reinvigorated (such as Hezekiah). Rather, it is probably a reference to Samson who “from weakness” was able to destroy the Philistines by collapsing the building down upon them and upon himself. Next, he notes those who “became valiant in battle.” Numerous heroes of Israel could be on the author’s mind, and he makes this a summary statement of any or all he was thinking about. Joshua, Barak, Saul, David, and many of the men under them, are recorded as champions in the battle, displaying a valiant nature in warfare. Finally, the verse says that they “turned to flight the armies of the aliens.” Again, the number of accounts is long concerning such exploits. Saul’s son Jonathan, in faith, began a battle which led to a route of the Philistines. At other times, the armies of Ammon, Moab, and Assyria (among others) are noted as having been turned back. Life application: Many of the prophets of old were threatened with death for speaking the word of the Lord, but the Lord often (but not always) saved them from the edge of the sword. Those whose weakness was turned to strength actually include all of those herein mentioned in this commentary, as well as all others in this Hall of Fame. On our own, despite how we may perceive ourselves, we are incapable of handling life’s pressures and stresses. God gives strength to all, but not all give Him the credit He is due. The greats in the Hall of Fame are those who became valiant. They realized that the power they possessed was granted to them, not something which came from them. Remember to praise the Lord for every accomplishment that you participate in. Again we thank you Lord for the wonderful stories of faithful followers who are recorded in Your word. We look back on their achievements and see Your hand at work in their lives. Likewise, be with us and guide us through the flames, the swords, the weaknesses, and the battles. In return, we will be sure to turn and give You the praise that You are due! Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Apr 1, 2019 22:59:10 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Hebrews 11:35, 1 April 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·MONDAY, APRIL 1, 2019 Monday, 1 April 2019 Women received their dead raised to life again. Others were tortured, not accepting deliverance, that they might obtain a better resurrection. Hebrews 11:35 Whereas the author noted active deeds of faith in the previous verses, he now notes passive acts through verse 38. Here he says, “Women received their dead raised to life again.” The Greek literally reads, “by a resurrection,” and it should be translated that way. This is because it is the same word used in the next sentence of this same verse. The two examples which are certainly on the author’s mind are found in 1 Kings 17:17-24 & 2 King 4:8-37. Each account looks, in type, to the work of Christ. They are true accounts which are recorded from Israel’s history, and which reflect the hope of the resurrection as provided in the coming Messiah. The author next says, “Others were tortured.” The word used here is unique in Scripture, tumpanizó. It signifies to beat a drum (one can think of a tympani-drum), and thus it means that these people were beaten to death, probably with clubs. However, it could be referring to generally cruel torture of various kinds. It is noted in the apocryphal book of 2 Maccabees 6 that a man named Eleazar was martyred because he refused to defile himself with swine’s flesh. It could also be referring to others in the Old Testament who were physically abused in various ways for their lives of faith. They accepted this punishment while “not accepting deliverance.” The implication in those words is that they could have taken whatever action was demanded of them, but which was contrary to what is morally right, and have been saved from their torture. Instead, though, they refused to budge, knowing “that they might obtain a better resurrection.” This doesn’t mean that when they are resurrected they will have a better resurrection than those around them who will also be resurrected. Rather, it is a contrasting statement in relation to the women mentioned in this verse who received their sons back. The resurrection there was a temporary raising to life which would eventually result in their final death. However, these people who were tortured were willing to go through that torture because they knew it wasn’t the end for them. Rather, it was a necessary step on the road to the final resurrection of the righteous. It was, and it remains, the great hope for all who have trusted in Messiah. It is certain that this has always been the hope of the faithful people of God because Daniel wrote about it many centuries before the coming of Messiah – “And many of those who sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, Some to everlasting life, Some to shame and everlasting contempt. 3 Those who are wise shall shine Like the brightness of the firmament, And those who turn many to righteousness Like the stars forever and ever.” Daniel 12:2, 3 Life application: As noted above, twice in the Old Testament, young boys were raised to life. Once was during the time of Elijah (1 Kings 17) and once during the time of Elisha (2 Kings 4). Read the following two verses which occurred during these accounts. Then read what Jesus said in the raising of Lazarus. See if you can determine a difference – “And he stretched himself out on the child three times, and cried out to the Lord and said, ‘O Lord my God, I pray, let this child’s soul come back to him.’”1 Kings 17:21 “He went in therefore, shut the door behind the two of them, and prayed to the Lord.”2 King 4:33 “Now when He had said these things, He cried with a loud voice, ‘Lazarus, come forth!’” John 11:43 The difference is that Jesus, while thanking the Father, raised Lazarus under His own authority. Elijah and Elisha both prayed to the Lord, who is Jesus, for His authority to restore. Now think on the significance of this. By faith these prophets looked forward, not seeing what we see. How much more confident should we be after having the fullness of God in Christ! In Christ is the hope of the resurrection, and so understand that there was and is a reward for being faithful during persecution, torture, and martyrdom. Should you ever face such a difficult ordeal, in and through your ordeal you also can expect a glorious resurrection and the crown of life from the hand of the Lord. Lord God, we look to the completed work of the Messiah, knowing that what Jesus has accomplished has paved the way for our own resurrection. Help us to live by faith, never fearing, never fretting, and never regretting! Instead, fill us with Your constant and unfailing peace, and allow us to faithfully testify to Your splendor all of our days. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Apr 3, 2019 1:06:17 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Hebrews 11:36, 2 April 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·TUESDAY, APRIL 2, 2019 Tuesday, 2 April 2019 Still others had trial of mockings and scourgings, yes, and of chains and imprisonment. Hebrews 11:36 The author continues on with his list of afflictions of the faithful of ages past, now noting that, “Still others had trial of mockings and scourgings.” The prophets of old, in particular, received mockings from the people. A well-known example of this is found in 2 Kings 2 – “Then he went up from there to Bethel; and as he was going up the road, some youths came from the city and mocked him, and said to him, ‘Go up, you baldhead! Go up, you baldhead!’” 2 Kings 2:23 At this, and other times, the prophets endured mockings. In this instance, it didn’t go so well for those who mocked him. The story goes on to say that two female bears came out of the woods and mauled forty-two of the youths. In Jeremiah 37, it is recorded that the prophet Jeremiah was struck and then put in prison. Although it is speculation, it is likely that this was a scourging, or a whipping. The law allowed such punishment for violators of it, and it is reasonable to conclude that this is what Jeremiah received, whether he deserved it or not – “So Irijah seized Jeremiah and brought him to the princes. 15 Therefore the princes were angry with Jeremiah, and they struck him and put him in prison in the house of Jonathan the scribe. For they had made that the prison.” Jeremiah 37:14, 15 These are just two examples of such treatment recorded in Scripture to show that the author remembered and understood the afflictions that the people of God had endured because of their faith. He continues on with, “and of chains and imprisonment.” From Joseph, the son of Jacob, to Jeremiah the prophet and others, faithful followers of the Lord were imprisoned for their faith. This is recorded of the seer Hanani in 2 Chronicles 16:7-10 – “And at that time Hanani the seer came to Asa king of Judah, and said to him: ‘Because you have relied on the king of Syria, and have not relied on the Lord your God, therefore the army of the king of Syria has escaped from your hand. 8 Were the Ethiopians and the Lubim not a huge army with very many chariots and horsemen? Yet, because you relied on the Lord, He delivered them into your hand. 9 For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him. In this you have done foolishly; therefore from now on you shall have wars.’ 10 Then Asa was angry with the seer, and put him in prison, for he was enraged at him because of this. And Asa oppressed some of the people at that time.” For simply speaking the word of the Lord in open rebuke of the king’s disobedience, the king had Hanani placed in prison. The same is occurring in the world today. Christians who speak out against wickedness and immorality – speaking only the truth of the situation without threat or harmful intent – are being imprisoned for their words. Life application: Here, the painful list of what the faithful of Scripture endured continues. Some people think that accepting Christ means blessings, abundance, provision, health, and wealth, but – like these Old Testament saints – the faithful in Christendom have been martyred by the millions. Many times, this persecution has come from within the church, such as during the Spanish Inquisition and against those of the Reformation. The whole point of listing the abuses and trials that these people endured is to enlighten the path of the Christian to what we can also expect. For simply speaking the word of the Lord to a nation who didn’t want to hear it, Jeremiah was imprisoned in a muddy cistern and left to starve to death when the city’s bread was used up. Thankfully he was rescued. Around the world today, faithful pastors and evangelists are being handcuffed and led to prison for preaching from the Bible. This is right at the doors of America also. Determine now to side with God and His word regardless of what you face. Lord God, none of us would look forward to jeers, flogging, chains, or imprisonment with glee, but we ask that if such a time should come, You would sustain us and give us the courage to face it resolutely. All of this we pray in the name of, and for the sake of, Jesus our Lord. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Apr 3, 2019 23:38:46 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Hebrews 11:37, 3 April 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·WEDNESDAY, APRIL 3, 2019 Wednesday, 3 April 2019 They were stoned, they were sawn in two, were tempted, were slain with the sword. They wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins, being destitute, afflicted, tormented.Hebrews 11:37 The author continues with the sad list of the ill-treatment of the people of faith recorded in Scripture and in the traditions of the Jewish people. He begins this verse with, “They were stoned.” Stoning was a type of capital punishment specifically designated within the law of Moses. It would be a painful, crunchy way to die, but it was also a sign of the complete rejection of an individual. This is because there was no direct contact between the executioners and the condemned. Instead, the symbolism was that the person was unclean and cast off from a distance, just as a stone is cast away. Unfortunately, it happened to righteous people of faith by those who were unrighteous. In an interesting, but contrasting parallel between the Old and New Testaments, the last martyr of the Old Testament was Zechariah, the son of Jehoiada. He was stoned in 2 Chronicles 24. Upon his death, it said – “Thus Joash the king did not remember the kindness which Jehoiada his father had done to him, but killed his son; and as he died, he said, ‘The Lord look on it, and repay!’”2 Chronicles 24:22 In the New Testament, the first martyr also died by stoning, and upon his death it says – “Then he knelt down and cried out with a loud voice, ‘Lord, do not charge them with this sin.’ And when he had said this, he fell asleep.” Acts 7:60 The author next says that “they were sawn in two.” This is referring to the Jewish tradition that the prophet Isaiah was sawn in two by the wicked king Manasseh. The verse next says that they “were tempted.” This doesn’t seem like a great horror, and therefore scholars wonder why it is listed among the other cruelties, but what it probably is referring to is the practice of giving a person who is condemned to die a chance to recant of the reason for the punishment, tempting him to side with his persecutors and to give up on his faith. When facing a terrible type of death, one would face a real challenge in such a temptation. Next is listed that they “were slain with the sword.” One prominent example is that of the priests of the Lord who were slain for having assisted David when he was escaping from Saul. There it says – “And the king said to Doeg, ‘You turn and kill the priests!’ So Doeg the Edomite turned and struck the priests, and killed on that day eighty-five men who wore a linen ephod.” 2 Samuel 22:18 The author then finishes the verse with a general statement about the condition of many others and the types of lives they lived, as well as the treatment they received, by saying, “They wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins, being destitute, afflicted, tormented.” The idea of “sheepskins and goatskins” is that of a rough garment, something a prophet would be noted for, such as in Zechariah 13:4. Being destitute signifies no real earthly possessions, no home, and no regular income. They were wholly dependent on the Lord, such as when Elijah was fed by the Lord by sending ravens to bring him his food in 1 Kings 17. Being afflicted would include the challenges which externally came against them – heat, cold, lack of shelter, attacks, and so on. Being tormented would be the external harm they received from others who directly persecuted them. Life application: Again we see the world’s treatment of God’s people. This is what those of faith suffered in olden times, and this is what true people of faith continue to suffer in history today. Not all of them, of course, but such things happen to God’s people in countries around the world, and such persecutions are coming upon His people even in supposedly “Christian” nations today. There is a great movement away from the solid foundation which is found in Jesus Christ. Like the people of faith from times past, those who speak out God’s word today are also likely to be persecuted, but despite the costs, the rewards are worth it. Heavenly Father, despite the troubles and persecutions we can expect because of our unwavering faith, let us stand firm in our convictions. Our faith will surely outlast these temporary and weak bodies. Thank You for the promise of new ones. While the world of corruption and death will consume our tormentors, the faithful in Christ will rise to walk in glory. Hallelujah and Amen!
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Apr 5, 2019 0:10:57 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Hebrews 11:38, 4 April 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·THURSDAY, APRIL 4, 2019 Thursday, 4 April 2019 ...of whom the world was not worthy. They wandered in deserts and mountains, in dens and caves of the earth.Hebrews 11:38 This is a description of those who have been referred to in the preceding verses. He has described their plight, their character, and their ill-treatment by the world. He now tells about their status in relation to the world around them by saying, “of whom the world was not worthy.” Vincent’s Word Studies notes what the term “world” signifies in this particular context – “By the world (κόσμος) is not meant the corrupt world, as in John and Paul (see on Hebrews 11:7), but the world considered as an economy which was unworthy of these, because ruled by sense and not by faith. Their plane of life was higher.” These men were placed by God into the stream of time and human existence (see Acts 17:26-28), but they were out of place in relation to the world around them. They were living by faith in something which lay ahead of them, and thus, that sphere of time and placement was not worthy of them. It is as if because of their faith they were living in the kingdom of the Lord even though they were among those who had no comprehension of what that meant. All others around them were living apart from the promise of Messiah, and their lives were mere futile moments of living for self. Despite this exalted state in which they lived, the author says, “They wandered in deserts and mountains.” This is probably a reference to the book of 2 Maccabees. It is a historical record of the life of the Jewish people. Though not inspired Scripture, it was a text which the author would have been aware of. In that book it says – “But Judas Maccabeus with nine others or thereabout, withdrew himself into the wilderness, and lived in the mountains after the manner of beasts, with his company, who fed on herbs continually lest they should be partakers of the pollution;” 2 Maccabees. 5:27. Other prophets throughout the Old Testament, such as Elijah, wandered in such a manner as well. They were men often without homes, without ordinary lives of working the land, and they lived a very skimpy existence in comparison to those around them. The author then continues with, “in dens and caves of the earth.” The word translated as “dens” is the Greek word spélaion. It signifies a cavern, and equates to a cave or a hiding place. One can see the root of our modern word for cave explorers, or spelunkers, in it. The next word, translated as “caves,” is the Greek word opé. It signifies a hole, as if where light enters, and so it can be a cavern, a spring of water (see James 3:11), etc. One can see the root of our modern word for “opening.” These men, at times, lived in places that seem more suited for jackals, lions, or bats. David, at times, dwelt in caves. This is seen in 1 Samuel 22:1 – “David therefore departed from there and escaped to the cave of Adullam. So when his brothers and all his father’s house heard it, they went down there to him.” Despite already being promised that someday he would be king of Israel, he was also a man who could dwell in a cave in order to survive. His character was such that his hope of Messiah allowed him to live life in a way that the world around him mattered little. This is true with all of those who wholeheartedly live by faith. Present difficulties are merely a temporary stepping stone to the life which is truly life. Life application: Go back over the past 37 verses and remind yourself of whom the author states “the world was not worthy.” They were all fallible people who lived fallible lives. They failed their spouses and their children; they deceived family members; one committed adultery and murder; one was a prostitute and another the son of a prostitute. And the list goes on. These people lived lives just like each of us. But “the world was not worthy of them.” It is their faith in something greater that set them above the other peoples and systems of government in which they lived. Many of them, while the rest of the world was living in spacious homes or palaces, wandered without any true comfort at all. They were pilgrims, simply living life for the future; not worried about that which is temporary. One wonderful story of the Rechabites comes to mind. This family, detailed in Jeremiah 35, was given a directive by one of their forefathers – “But they said, ‘We will drink no wine, for Jonadab the son of Rechab, our father, commanded us, saying, ‘You shall drink no wine, you nor your sons, forever. 7 You shall not build a house, sow seed, plant a vineyard, nor have any of these; but all your days you shall dwell in tents, that you may live many days in the land where you are sojourners.’ 8 Thus we have obeyed the voice of Jonadab the son of Rechab, our father, in all that he charged us, to drink no wine all our days, we, our wives, our sons, or our daughters, 9 nor to build ourselves houses to dwell in; nor do we have vineyard, field, or seed. 10 But we have dwelt in tents, and have obeyed and done according to all that Jonadab our father commanded us.’” Jeremiah 35:6-10 They steadfastly followed the directive of their father and God used them as an example of faithfulness. This is in contrast to the people of Israel who continuously failed to follow the directives of their God. Indeed, so pleased was God with the example of the Rechabites that He made this promise to them – “...therefore thus says the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel: ‘Jonadab the son of Rechab shall not lack a man to stand before Me forever.’”Jeremiah 35:19 Lord, thank You for the gift of our faith that You have given us. We know it is what is truly pleasing to You. Never let us slip or falter in it, but rather increase it so that we may always walk in a manner that will bring You glory and demonstrate to others our joy in serving You. Amen.
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Post by PrisonerOfHope on Apr 5, 2019 23:14:29 GMT -5
Daily Bible Verse, Hebrews 11:39, 5 April 2019
WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·FRIDAY, APRIL 5, 2019 Friday, 5 April 2019 And all these, having obtained a good testimony through faith, did not receive the promise,Hebrews 11:39 The author now sums up the faithful lives of the people he has mentioned, even from verse 11:2. In this verse, he now says, “And all these.” In verse 11:2, they were described as “the elders.” From there, he made a short note about faith in the creation account, and from there he went directly to the faith of Abel and then numerous others. He finally gave a general list of people, not by name, but by how they demonstrated faith. This then is who “all these” is speaking of. Of them, he says, “having obtained a good testimony.” This is the proper translation of the words, based on the same phrase used in verse 11:2. He had said there that they obtained a good testimony, he then described what that meant in the chapter, and he now repeats that, showing that what he claimed concerning them was accurate. And this was “through faith.” All of the examples given demonstrated that it was by faith that they had received their good testimony. The author’s consistency of thought, and his ability to sum up his argument, is beautifully laid out. Finally, despite having obtained this good testimony through faith, he says they “did not receive the promise.” What is the promise he is referring to? It is that of Messiah, and it is of entering into what God has promised through Messiah. This is completely certain because in Hebrews 6:15 it says of Abraham, “And so, after he had patiently endured, he obtained the promise.” However, Abraham is listed in this chapter and it is said of him (along with all the others) that he did not receive the promise. What Abraham received in 6:15 was the promise of a son who would lead to Messiah, and thus the surety of a multiplication of descendants. Again, in verse 10:36, it says, “For you have need of endurance, so that after you have done the will of God, you may receive the promise.” Here, he is speaking to those who have trusted in Christ, and who have thus received what Christ promises. And yet, they are still waiting to receive that same promise. What this means then is that there is the reception of the promise as a surety, and yet there is the fact that the promise has not yet been received in reality. This is what Paul speaks of in his letters. In Ephesians 1, those who have believed in Christ have received God’s promise. And yet, that is only so far as it is assured. The proof of that is the sealing of the Holy Spirit which is a “guarantee of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, to the praise of His glory” (Ephesians 1:14). We have received the promise, but we are waiting to obtain what we have received. There is no contradiction here. It is all based on the work of Messiah, and it is absolutely guaranteed once it is given by God. Thus, the doctrine of eternal salvation is, once again, on prominent display when properly evaluating what is stated in the word of God. Life application: The saints of ages past lived by faith in God, but He is a God they couldn’t see, even if they occasionally saw some of His miraculous works. However, their faith wasn’t in vain. They knew the God of Israel is the One true God and it was in Him they placed their hopes. This knowledge wasn’t limited to Israel though. As the prostitute Rahab said – “And as soon as we heard these things, our hearts melted; neither did there remain any more courage in anyone because of you, for the Lord your God, He is God in heaven above and on earth beneath.” Joshua 2:11 As is apparent from the text, the entire city of Jericho understood who they were up against, and yet only Rahab replaced the head-knowledge with faith. Because of this, she became known as one of the faithful of all times. However, she – along with all the others of the Old Testament – despite receiving commendation for their faith, has not yet received the promise. The coming verse explains why, but try to remember this when you are facing a long-term illness, years of praying for something that seems to never come about, or any of a host of other things which seem to never happen. These people waited their whole lives, and have continued to wait thousands of years in whatever interim state exists for them, for a promise yet to come. How much more then should we wait patiently upon the Lord and His good timing. Lord, it certainly is hard for us to wait. We are so used to eating three times a day that when we miss a meal we really feel it. We are used to seeing the sunrise come with regularity. Each new day becomes one less ahead of us. Help us to be patient, even as our days slip past, waiting on Your good timing for all things. In Jesus spectacular name we pray. Amen.
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