Day 120 - Not my Will, but Thy Will be Done!

Today's Reading: 1 Sam. 18-19 and Mark 14

Every day we face mountains, we face decisions, we face cross-roads in life. Do we make our choices based on what we think seems best or most appealing, or do we make our choices in view of Calvary?

Mark 14 really spoke to my heart today. Every time I read about Christ struggle that last night in the garden of Gethsemane, I think of His yielding up His will on our behalf so that we could be saved. Then I think, "Why do I sometimes struggle to yield up my will to Him, so that I can be saved? Why do I struggle letting go of something that I want, or of walking a path that might seem more comfortable but would actually lead me away from Him?" It's because I still don't fully understand His sacrifice. I don't understand what Christ has done on my behalf!

In Desire of Ages we are told:

"Behold Him contemplating the price to be paid for the human soul. In His agony He clings to the cold ground, as if to prevent Himself from being drawn farther from God. The chilling dew of night falls upon His prostrate form, but He heeds it not. From His pale lips comes the bitter cry, 'O My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from Me.' Yet even now He adds, 'Nevertheless not as I will, but as Thou wilt.' "(p. 687)

In another place, Ellen White writes:

"Few give thought to the suffering that sin has caused our Creator. All heaven suffered in Christ’s agony; but that suffering did not begin or end with His manifestation in humanity. The cross is a revelation to our dull senses of the pain that, from its very inception, sin has brought to the heart of God. Every departure from the right, every deed of cruelty, every failure of humanity to reach His ideal, brings grief to Him. When there came upon Israel the calamities that were the sure result of separation from God,—subjugation by their enemies, cruelty, and death,—it is said that “His soul was grieved for the misery of Israel.” “In all their affliction He was afflicted: ... and He bare them, and carried them all the days of old.” Judges 10:16; Isaiah 63:9. (Education, p. 263)

If He cried "Not my will but thy will," on my behalf, then I can cry, "Not my will, but thy will" on Christ behalf!

[Five years ago today, April 30, 2013, my grandmother died! How I miss her! Wish she could be alive and see what God has been doing in our lives in answer to her prayers. Unfortunately, she did not live long enough to know that my brother's got married and started families, nor did she live long enough to see my first book get published... so many times I think of her and wish she was still alive, wish I knew that she was still praying for me... but someday, I look forward to seeing her again. Here's the link I made of one of my favorite songs: God's Family Reunion! Someday...]

Tomorrow's Reading: 1 Sam. 20-21 and Mark 15

Day 119 - Goliath is Conquered by The Living Stone!

Today's Reading: 1 Sam. 16-17 and Ps. 48

One of our most favorite Bible stories of all time!

In 1 Samuel 17:49-52 we read how David brought down Goliath with a single stone. After Goliath had fallen, he then pulled out Goliath’s own sword and cut off his head. And then everyone in Israel shouted in victory because, while there were still Philistines to kill, the battle had been won.

Have you ever contemplated the significance of that single stone and what it could represent? What about Christ, the Living Stone (1 Pet. 2:4), who by throwing Himself upon the kingdom of darkness conquered sin and death and set us free? (Rom. 5:17)

However, we not only see a picture of Jesus in this story, we also see the outline of the Great Controversy. Remember the prophecy of Genesis 3:15? It’s significant that David used Goliath’s own sword to cut off his head. Likewise, at Calvary, Satan came after Christ with the sword of death to destroy Him. But Christ through death destroyed "him that had the power of death, that is, the devil." (Heb. 2:14)When Goliath fell, the children of Israel "shouted," most likely something like: "We’ve won! We’ve won!" Had they won? No, David their substitute had won. Then, because their substitute had already gained the victory they pursued the Philistines all the way to their own town.

So what is practical application for our lives today? It's easy to get disheartened by the looming "goliath's" of our lives, but let's look beyond the "goliath" and see Calvary! Christ has gained the victory over Satan for us! Our job is to claim that victory, and accept Christ’s righteousness. Then we can confidently fight the battle against sin in our own life knowing we will be victorious, because Christ has already gained the victory for us on the cross. But what are we trusting in this battle: our own strength, or the smooth “Living Stone” drawn from the water of life?

Tomorrow's Reading: 1 Sam. 18-19 and Mark 14 

Day 118 - To Obey is Better than Sacrifice!

Today's Reading: 1 Sam. 14-15 and Mark 13

In today's 1st Samuel reading, there are many excellent spiritual lessons. I love Jonathan's word to his armor bearer as they went up single-handedly against the Philistines: "God is able to save by many or by few."

However, the tragedy that really cuts to my heart in today's reading is how King Saul was commanded to completely destroy the Amalakites as they were a spiritual snare to Israel. But he only partially obeyed God's Word. He saved the BEST of the oxen and animals. When the Prophet Samuel questioned him on his actions, he replied, "We have obeyed the word of the Lord. We did utterly destroy the Amalakites, but we have King Agag as a Souvenir. Oooh... and that sound of bleeting of sheep and goats, and cows... we are saving them to sacrifice to the Lord."

But does God delight in sacrifices when we have not obeyed His Word? Does He delight in offerings of pretense when our hearts are not right with Him? What might we be holding on to, today, that God has said, "Let go!" because we reason, "Well, I can use this for God... I can do such and such with this... " and we justify away our complete obedience.

The Bible says, "Behold to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams." (1 Sam. 15:22)

Saul did not see his sin... he had deceived himself. He justified away his disobedience with a good work that he thought would please God. But... we can't excuse away God's commands with our own reasoning, EVER. That's why we must daily search our hearts, as we come to make our morning and evening sacrifice (devotion and worship) to God. Our hearts must be right with God if our offering is going to be accepted in His sight.

[Side Note: Obedience to God is not going to get easier. Something interesting that happened a few days ago has to do with this blog. Many of these blogs are posted on FB with the prayer that more will be blessed, and as a result, hundreds are reading. But a few days ago, after I posted "Lessons on Love from Boaz and Ruth," FB actually removed my post and link to this blog as they said "This post goes against Facebook community standards." Wow! I was shocked! I don't know if it's because I was speaking about the love between a "man and a woman" or because I spoke against women taking the lead, or what? I'm still confused. However, my question is, will we comply with culture and only do what is politically correct as things get more difficult... or will we continue to speak for our Lord and obey our King, no matter what He asks, no matter the sacrifice, no matter who is watching. While I'm very careful not to use FB (or any social media venue for that matter) as a platform for political opinions or social justice frustrations, I do believe we should use every avenue available to speak the Word of God, to share our testimony, and to testify of God's goodness in our lives...and that's all that I've been trying to do. So them removing my post over simply speaking Bible truth was quite a surprise to me. Anyway, the spiritual battle is getting more serious friends. We should pray that we continually uphold the name of Christ and not get lost on the sidelines bickering and arguing over our political and life frustrations. Let's keep our focus upward on Christ, otherwise the coming storm will pull us down. Let's be faithful to the end. To obey is better than sacrifice!]

Tomorrow's Reading: 1 Sam. 16:17 and Ps. 48

Day 117 - She gave Her All!

Today's Reading: 1 Sam. 12-13 and Mark 12

In today's reading of 1 Samuel 12-13, we discover Saul already beginning to run ahead of the Lord by doing things his own way. And his downfall is predicted, as Samuel says, "The Lord will choose a man after his own heart."

In Mark 12 we see a contrasting story, and that is of a woman after God's own heart. Everyone is giving their offering, and a woman shyly comes forward, embarrassed to be seen, and gives a measly 2 mites (worth about 1/5th of a cent!), and yet she gave all that she had. Her heart longed after God.

I'm really touched by what is written in Desire of Ages pages 614-615 about this story:

Jesus was in the court where were the treasure chests, and He watched those who came to deposit their gifts. Many of the rich brought large sums, which they presented with great ostentation. Jesus looked upon them sadly, but made no comment on their liberal offerings. Presently His countenance lighted as He saw a poor widow approach hesitatingly, as though fearful of being observed. As the rich and haughty swept by, to deposit their offerings, she shrank back as if hardly daring to venture farther. And yet she longed to do something, little though it might be, for the cause she loved. She looked at the gift in her hand. It was very small in comparison with the gifts of those around her, yet it was her all. Watching her opportunity, she hurriedly threw in her two mites, and turned to hasten away. But in doing this she caught the eye of Jesus, which was fastened earnestly upon her. 

The Saviour called His disciples to Him, and bade them mark the widow’s poverty. Then His words of commendation fell upon her ear: “Of a truth I say unto you, that this poor widow hath cast in more than they all.” Tears of joy filled her eyes as she felt that her act was understood and appreciated. Many would have advised her to keep her pittance for her own use; given into the hands of the well-fed priests, it would be lost sight of among the many costly gifts brought to the treasury. But Jesus understood her motive. She believed the service of the temple to be of God’s appointment, and she was anxious to do her utmost to sustain it. She did what she could, and her act was to be a monument to her memory through all time, and her joy in eternity. Her heart went with her gift; its value was estimated, not by the worth of the coin, but by the love to God and the interest in His work that had prompted the deed. 

Jesus said of the poor widow, She “hath cast in more than they all.” The rich had bestowed from their abundance, many of them to be seen and honored by men. Their large donations had deprived them of no comfort, or even luxury; they had required no sacrifice, and could not be compared in value with the widow’s mite.

It is the motive that gives character to our acts, stamping them with ignominy or with high moral worth. Not the great things which every eye sees and every tongue praises does God account most precious. The little duties cheerfully done, the little gifts which make no show, and which to human eyes may appear worthless, often stand highest in His sight. A heart of faith and love is dearer to God than the most costly gift. The poor widow gave her living to do the little that she did. She deprived herself of food in order to give those two mites to the cause she loved. And she did it in faith, believing that her heavenly Father would not overlook her great need. It was this unselfish spirit and childlike faith that won the Saviour’s commendation. 

Tears are in my eyes as I read these passages. What a beautiful lesson on sacrificial giving.

Tomorrow's Reading: 1 Sam. 14-15 and Mark 13

Day 116 - Are we Little in our Own Eyes?

Today's Reading: 1 Sam. 10-11 and Ps. 46-47

Isn't interesting in today's reading that when the Prophet Samuel is ready to publicly anoint Saul as king that Saul hides! He wasn't hiding in a field of flowers, he was hiding in the supplies and luggage. He obviously was not real excited about this new commission. In yesterday's reading, we find his reaction when the Prophet Samuel first told him of his calling:

"And Saul answered and said, 'Am I not a Benjamite, of the smallest of the tribes of Israel, and my family the least of all the families of the tribe of Benjamin? Why then do you speak like this to me?' ” (1 Sam. 9:21)

Obviously, Saul did not feel himself qualified to become Israel's first king. "Who am I that you would ask me, who am I to take such a great task?"

If Saul had kept this spirit of humility throughout his life, he might have kept the kingdom. But with honor, with elevation, with prestige too often follows self-confidence, pride, and we begin to stop looking at God and trust ourselves. And that's what very soon happened to Saul.

Dear Lord, may we stay humble, no matter where You take us or how You use us, may we always recognize that there is nothing within us that is worthy, nothing within us that can take honor, nothing within us that qualifies us to serve. Not unto us O Lord, not unto us, but unto Your Name give glory. May we still little in our eyes, but may Your strength be made perfect even in our weakness!

Tomorrow's Reading: 1 Sam. 12-13 and Mark 12 

Day 115 - We want a King!

Today's Reading: 1 Sam. 7-9 and Mark 11

Samuel, a faithful prophet of the Lord calls Israel to once again repent. And before their very eyes, once again God delivers Israel from the Philistines. And yet, it seems God is not enough. Israel wants a king. They want to be like all the other nations...

"What should I do?" Samuel cries out to God. God tells Samuel, "It's okay. They aren't rejecting you. They are rejecting me. Give them a king!"

Wow! Do we also hunger to be like those around us? Rather than depending on God, rather than trusting on God, do we desire to put our trust in people, in resources, in man's wisdom?

I thought it was interesting in today's reading of 1 Samuel Israel is demanding and king, and in today's reading of Mark 11, Israel actually receives her King -- Christ Jesus comes into Jerusalem riding on a colt. Everyone is so excited, "Hosanna! Blessed is He that cometh in the name of the Lord." And yet the Kingdom that Christ came to set up was not a kingdom of this world. And because of that, once the party was over... the majority of the crowd walked away. They didn't want a king that came with a cross.

Let's reflect on what Ellen White says about the triumphal entry:

Never before in His earthly life had Jesus permitted such a demonstration. He clearly foresaw the result. It would bring Him to the cross. But it was His purpose thus publicly to present Himself as the Redeemer. He desired to call attention to the sacrifice that was to crown His mission to a fallen world. While the people were assembling at Jerusalem to celebrate the Passover, He, the antitypical Lamb, by a voluntary act set Himself apart as an oblation. It would be needful for His church in all succeeding ages to make His death for the sins of the world a subject of deep thought and study. Every fact connected with it should be verified beyond a doubt. It was necessary, then, that the eyes of all people should now be directed to Him; the events which preceded His great sacrifice must be such as to call attention to the sacrifice itself. After such a demonstration as that attending His entry into Jerusalem, all eyes would follow His rapid progress to the final scene. 

The events connected with this triumphal ride would be the talk of every tongue, and would bring Jesus before every mind. After His crucifixion, many would recall these events in their connection with His trial and death. They would be led to search the prophecies, and would be convinced that Jesus was the Messiah; and in all lands converts to the faith would be multiplied. (From The Desire of Ages, p. 571)

Rather than seeking a king in this world, let our eyes be on the King of Glory!

Tomorrow's Reading: 1 Sam. 10-11 and Psalm 46-47

Day 114 - Come to Jesus as a Little Child...

Today's Reading: 1 Sam. 4-6 and Mark 10

This morning I'm going to skip commenting on the fascinating stories of 1 Samuel 4-6, where we see what happens when the Philistines tried to mix the Holy God of Israel with their pagan gods, and I'm going to focus in on Mark 10, and Jesus' appeal for us to have hearts as little children.

[By the way: You want to know how to really discover a great man or woman? Look at their heart towards children, towards the little ones, towards the little unimportant people around them...the people that can do nothing for them. See how they relate and value them, and you will know their true heart!]

Jesus loved the children, and it was evident that they felt His love, for they probably clamored around Him constantly, and mother's often brought their little ones to Him for blessing. Obviously the disciples saw this as a nuisance... they probably thought, "All these little children are distracting Jesus from His main work and mission." So they tried to discourage the children and mothers from coming near. But how did Jesus respond?

"... When Jesus saw it, He was greatly displeased and said to them, 'Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of God. Assuredly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it.' And He took them up in His arms, laid His hands on them, and blessed them." (Mark 10:14-16)

Wow! This must have shocked the socks off all those that were listening... Why does Jesus say that if we don't receive the Kingdom of God as a little child, we can't enter?

I think it has to do with the childlike humility, abiding love, and lack of pretense that children exude. Children come with no airs, nothing to prove, no ego to protect, and no one to impress... They come to love and receive love. They come because they are hungry and in need and they expect you to feed them. And what mom and dad says to them is TRUTH. What Jesus said was TRUTH to them, also! They believed it! If He said they could go to heaven, they wanted to be there. If He told stories of how Jonah was swallowed by a whale, and the Red Sea opened for the children of Israel, they believed Him. They weren't too old to be prejudiced with the doubt and skepticism of the age. This is the sweet beauty of the little ones... their simple joy, their simple faith, their simple trust, their naive innocence and humility, and their tender love. We need more of this in our lives. And it is with this spirit, the spirit of need and sweet humility that we must come in search of the Kingdom of Heaven. 

Another thing in Mark 10 that really speaks to me is how Jesus deals with the competition among the disciples. They are always worried about who is being noticed, who receives the most favors, who is first, and who will be honored the most in heaven. It's the same spirit we often struggle with today. But Jesus rebukes that self-centered attitude.

Let's read again what the Bible says: 

"But Jesus called them to Himself and said to them, “You know that those who are considered rulers over the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. Yet it shall not be so among you; but whoever desires to become great among you shall be your servant. And whoever of you desires to be first shall be slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.” Mark 10:43-45

Basically Jesus is saying, "Hey guys! What is up with this competition? Even I didn't come to earth to be served. Do you think I left heaven for special favors? No, I came to be a servant. And this is what you are called to be as well. The rules of heaven are opposite the rules of the world. You have to take up your cross and die to your self if you are truly going to live."

Wow! What a challenge it must have been to His disciples to hear these words, and what a challenge it is to our hearts today. We all must die a greater death to self, a greater death than we've yet imagined. However, if God's church truly embraced this spirit and this attitude of humility, what a difference there would be among us.

[END-NOTES: Now's a perfect opportunity to share another handout that has really challenged my heart and life personally. I share this everywhere I go. It's called, The Beauty of Humility.]

Tomorrow's Reading: 1 Sam. 7-9 and Mark 11

Day 113 - Speak Lord, I am Listening!

Today's Reading: 1 Sam 1-3 and Mark 9

I love the story of little Samuel, and how he is birthed out the anguish and faith of a mother's earnest prayers. (Have you noticed that many great men of Scripture came from mothers who were initially BARREN? This is a fascinating study all in itself.)

Hannah had promised that if God opened her womb and gave her a son she would dedicate him to the Lord. God honored her request, and she kept her word! Once Samuel was old enough, she took him to the temple and gave him to the care of priest Eli.

It seems in those days that there was not any open vision between the Lord and the priest (1 Sam. 3:1), because the sins of the Eli's house had shut out the presence of the Lord and He could not speak with them. However, at a young age, the Lord begins to speak to Samuel. What a beautiful picture of innocent humility, and openess to God's Word. "Here I am Lord, speak for I am listening!"

I remember reading this story as a child and wondering if God would ever speak to me or call me by name... What a beautiful privilege to talk to the Lord. Well, I don't know that I've ever heard the audible voice of God, but He has called me by name, and I have heard His voice through His Word countless times. So as I read this story again this morning, I have to ask myself... "Do we have an ear for the Lord? Are we listening? Or are we too distracted, too busy, too occupied with life?"

If we are listening, God will speak to us. So let's make sure we stay in tune with His voice today! I promise, if you intentionally turn off the distractions around you, open His Word, He will have a special message just for you.... TODAY!

I love this promise from Revelation...

"He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give treat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God." Rev. 2:7

Tomorrow's Reading: 1 Sam. 4-6 and Mark 10

Day 112 - Lessons on Love from Boaz and Ruth...

Today's Reading: Ruth 3-4 and Psalms 45

In today's reading, we see the beautiful story of the "Kinsman Redeemer," and the culmination of the love story between Boaz and Ruth.

As custom went in those days, when a man died, the nearest relative (brother) was suppose to take that man's widow as wife and raise up seed (children) so that the deceased man's name would not be lost. I find this concept first introduced in Deuteronomy 25. Let's read what it says:

"If brothers dwell together, and one of them dies and has no son, the widow of the dead man shall not be married to a stranger outside the family; her husband’s brother shall go in to her, take her as his wife, and perform the duty of a husband’s brother to her. And it shall be that the firstborn son which she bears will succeed to the name of his dead brother, that his name may not be blotted out of Israel." (Deut. 25:5-6)

So Ruth goes by night to Boaz to ask him to be her kinsmen redeemer... which it seems that Boaz is more than eager to do. In fact, very first thing the next morning, he goes to the gate of the city to meet with the Elders and discuss this business. Unfortunately, he has one obstacle. There's one man that is a closer relative, and so actually this other man has first dibs on Ruth and the family property. Thankfully, when Boaz shares the situation, this man recognizes that he cannot fulfill the duty by marrying Ruth, so he gives the rights of kinsman-ship to Boaz, and he signifies this by giving Boaz his sandal. "Whew!" I can just imagine that Boaz breathed a great sigh of relief.

So God provided a way... and Boaz took Ruth as his wife! What a happy ending to what had been a tragic story for Ruth. The gleaner need never again tread the fields, following the reaper’s footsteps. All the broad acres were now hers, since she had become one with the owner. When we are one with Christ, we no longer worry about redemption; but being redeemed, we bring forth fruit unto God (Rom 7:4). Not long after they marry, Ruth bears a child (who is to be the grandfather of King David, and in the royal line of the Messiah). Can you imagine the joy when Naomi finally takes that tiny baby Obed in her arms? Naomi and Ruth had gone together through the valley of the shadow of death. Now they stand together in the light of the mountain-top. Once again God has turned the mourning into gladness (Psa 30:11).

Oh yes... and one more thing... did you notice the parallel once again between the chapters in Ruth and those of Ps. 45. Psalms 45 is titled in my Bible, The Glories of the Messiah and His bride. How fitting that these two readings are aligned together here.

[Note: By the way... regarding how this love story transpires... especially the part where Ruth seems to initiate things by going to Boaz and sleeping at his feet... I've seen and heard so many woman use this story to justify the right to become the initiators in romantic relationships. I've even had people tell me that I should follow Ruth's example. "It's okay to put yourself out there, to take the lead, to ask him out, etc! After all, look at the story of Ruth and Boaz!" they say. But I don't think this is the lesson that God wants us single women to get from this story. Obviously, this was an accepted custom in the culture of that day, and Boaz even refers to Ruth (when she comes to him at night) as being a "virtuous woman," so there was nothing shady going on here. But if you notice, Boaz is still the ONE that initially took the lead in reaching out to Ruth in the fields. He's the one that invited her to his table. He's the one that instructed his reapers to allow extra grain to fall for her. He gave her special privileges above the other woman. He's also the one who took the lead in working for the right to become Ruth's husband as he met with the Elders at the gate. While he was doing this, Ruth was waiting quietly at home with Naomi. It was possible that it would not be Boaz who would become her husband, it was possible that this other "closer relative" might decide to make her his wife, and she must submit to that. So, rather than becoming "take charge woman in pursuit of our man," I think the greater lesson here is, are we willing to trust the Lord, and place ourselves in a place of quiet surrender and submission at HIS FEET? Will we make ourselves available to the Lord's agenda and His leading? Will we give Him our heart? If so, then HE can be our kinsmen redeemer. In fact we are told, "It was to redeem us that He became our kinsman. Closer than father, mother, brother, friend, or lover is the Lord our Savior. "Fear not," He says, "For I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by name; thou art mine." (Isa. 43:1) Desire of Ages, p. 327. Remember it was Christ who came in search of His bride... it is Christ who fights for the love of His bride. The same order, I believe, will be seen in Godly relationships. Perhaps I am outdated and old fashion, but I believe this is the safest model. So rather than taking our life, our romance, or our plans and future, into our own hands, let's allow the Savior to lead the way. As my dad always tells me, "God gives His best to those who leave the choice to Him!"]

By the way... if you are interested in the topic of love, you might appreciate my post "Three-Faulty-Mate- Selection-Mistakes" from a few days earlier!

Tomorrow's Reading: 1 Sam. 1-3 and Mark 9

Day 111 - Your God will be My God

Today's Reading: Ruth 1-2, and Mark 8

I love the story of Naomi and Ruth, of the devoted daughter-in-law that would not leave her mother... even after all the tragedy they had experienced.

Naomi was a foreigner in the country of Moab. She had two daughters-in-law, woman who had married her sons. But now all three women had become widows. Naomi's husband had died, as well as her two sons. Now, sorrowful and downcast, Naomi decides to return to her homeland, the country of Judah. But Naomi was wonderful mother-in-law, and because of this her two daughters-in-law did not want to be separated from her. "We will go with you!" they told her. "Do you expect me to birth more sons for you to marry? No, I am too old. Return to your families. It is better that you stay," she told them.

At long last, with crying and tears, one daughter-in-law Orpah kissed Naomi, and then she turned and returned to her country and to her gods. But the other daughter-in-law, Ruth, would not be turned away. In fact, she clung to Naomi. "And Ruth said, Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou longest, I will lodge: thy people shall bey people, and thy God my God: Where thou diest, will I die, and there will I be buried: the LORD do so to me, and more also, if ought but death part thee and me." (Ruth 1:16-17)

What a beautiful vow of allegiance, not just to her mother-in-law Naomi, but to God!

And so Naomi along with Ruth, returned together to Naomi's homeland.

Ruth was a wonderful daughter-in-law, and she worked faithfully to help provide for Naomi. I love how she goes to glean in the field and finds favor in the eyes of the wealthy land owner Boaz. (I like this story so much, probably because I'm a romantic at heart and I know what's coming!) But something special jumped out to me as I was reading today, and that was how Boaz invited her to come sit with his reapers at his table, and he gave her bread, and she was SATISFIED (Ruth 2:14). Did you catch that?

Do we recognize that the King of the Universe has invited us to His table? Of course,we don't deserve to sit at His table, any more than Ruth deserved to sit at Boaz table. We are foreigners, we are sinners who have served other gods. And yet our Heavenly Father invites us to come and eat of His bread. What is the result? Just like Ruth, we will be SATISFIED. That means we won't look anywhere else for bread, because we've found the source! He's all we need. However, we will not only be satisfied, we will have to take some left-overs home with us to share. Ruth took home some bread back to share with Naomi. When we taste and see that God is good, we too will desire to take this goodness and share it with others. (In fact, if we aren't interested in sharing this Living Bread... perhaps it's because we have yet to sit at the King's table and taste His goodness for ourselves.)

I also saw beautiful parallels from Ruth's story with today's reading in Mark 8, where Jesus fed the 4,000 and there were 7 baskets of left-overs taken up. Wow! The King does not lack bread. There is enough and more than enough for all at His table!

Such beautiful lessons... Lord, Thank You for inviting us to sit at Your table. Thank You for feeding us with Living Bread. You are so good.

"Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good; Blessed is the man [the woman] who trusts in Him!" (Ps. 34:8)

Tomorrow's Reading: Ruth 3-4 and Psalms 45

Day 110 - Do we Weep for the Lost?

Today's Reading: Judges 21, Mark 7

In today's final chapter of Judges we see Israel weeping over the calamity of the tribe of Benjamin.

"And the people came to the house of God, and abode there till even before God, and lifted up their voices and wept sore; O Lord God of Israel, why is this come to pass in Israel, that there should be today one tribe lacking in Israel?" (vs.2-3)

As I was reading these verses I thought to myself, "Do we weep for the lost as we should? Do we approach the kingdom of heaven asking, 'How can one [of my family, of my church, of my tribe, of my neighbors, of my school, or of my work] be missing from the heavenly throng?' "

Inspiration tells us, "Only in eternity can we rightly estimate the loss of a single soul." (Great Controversy, p. 640)

I tend to weep over those that I know personally who are not walking with the Lord, but those I don't know... well, I have to admit that my heart is far too apathetic and cold. That's why I have to plead that God will change my heart, and give me HIS HEART for the lost, His heart of anguish for the world around us...

I have to share this short video -- an appeal given by David Wilkerson titled, "The Call to Anguish." This video stirs my heart every time I watch it. I think it's very fitting here. 

Let us pray that our hearts would be broken afresh for the world in need!

Tomorrow's Reading: Ruth 1-2, and Mark 8

Day 109 - As Sheep to the Slaughter...

Today's Reading: Judges 19-20 and Ps. 44

Today's reading in Judges 19 and 20 was another one of the chapters in the Bible that I just don't understand, and frankly, I wish that I could just skip over. It tells the tragic and ugly story of the perversion of the men of Gibeah, and the resulting abuse and death of the Levite's concubine. "How could the Levite not fight for her? Hadn't he just gone and gotten her from her father's house because he loved her? How could he just turn her over to be used and abused by these wicked men?" my heart cries. Of course, her death is not the end of the story, for the Levite then cuts her up into 12 pieces and sends these pieces all over Israel. This resulted in outrage in Israel and 400,000 armed men came together. A major battle and massacre between the tribes of Israel resulted, with the tribe of Benjamin almost being completely wiped out. Ugly, ugly, ugly. But that's always the results of sin... ugly, ugly, ugly. Usually we don't see the end result, and so we don't think sin is that ugly.

I was struck in today's reading of the parallels between Judges 19-20 and Psalms 44:8-15,22-34.

"Thou hast given us like sheep appointed for meat; and hast scattered us among the heathen. Thou fellest thy people for nought, and dost not increase thy wealth by their price. Thou makes us a reproach to our neighbours, a scorn and a derision to them that are round about us. Thou makes us a byword among the heathen, a shaking of the head among the people. My confusion is continually before me, and the shame of my face hath covered me...Yea, for thy sake are we killed all the day long; we are counted as sheep for the slaughter. Awake, why sleepest thou, O Lord? arise, cast us not off for ever."

Do you ever feel like you are being trampled by the enemy, and God is sleeping? You've been striving to be faithful, and yet the enemy continues his onslaught, and it appears God is sleeping while your name is being smeared? I've felt this way a few times in my life, and I currently have several dear friends that are going through this painful trial of faith. They feel like sheep headed to the slaughter... but, God is not sleeping. We are in the midst of a terrible and ugly great controversy... right now it seems like the enemy is winning.... But God will avenge... May we hold on and continue to trust Him in the darkness as well as the light.

Tomorrow's Reading: Judges 21 and Mark 7

Day 108 - Sent out two by two...

Today's Reading: Judges 17-18, and Mark 6

The reading in the last few chapters of Mark have been so inspiring, as I've been reminded of the miracles and parables of Christ. It's hard not to comment on Mark in each blog post...

One simple thing I will comment on from today's chapter. The Bible says, "And he called unto him the twelve, and began to send them forth by two and two..." Mark 6:7

Why two by two? Why not alone? Why not all together?

It seems there is a special strength in united effort, in united prayers, in unitedly carrying the burden, and in united witness. And yet, I think if too many were sent together, it would overwhelm and probably intimidate those they are trying to reach... but two can go to a door, two can mingle, two can come and go together without too much notice, concern or worry. And when there's two, there's strength, accountability, and greater effectiveness in service.

I remember an African proverb my friend, Pastor Ratsara, shared with me a few years ago. "If you want to go fast, go alone! If you want to go far, go together!"

However, it seems these days that people are jealous for power, jealous for control... and sometimes they get the notion that they can do the work better alone. But I believe the best leaders don't try to work alone, they learn to work together. I see in this passage a reminder to come together, to be vulnerable, to trust God, and to unite our labors with others on the same journey for the sake of the gospel. After all, this isn't about us anyway. It's for God's glory that we serve.

I'm reminded of Ecl. 4:9-12 which seems to indicate that two are good, and even three might be better! The point is, there is more power and effectiveness when two or three work together in unity (See Matt. 18:19-20).

"Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour. For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up. Again, if two lie together, then they have heat: but how can one be warm alone? And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken."

I know personally, my ministry has been so blessed when working in partnership with others... Jesus knew what He was doing when He sent his disciples out two by two...

Tomorrow's Reading: Judges 19-20, and Ps. 44

Day 107 - Glimpses of Jesus...

Today's Reading: Judges 15-16 and Mark 5

In today's reading, we find many more interesting facts of Samson's life and conquest. He judged Israel over 20 years. But there are only a few stories shared from these twenty years, and the most notable both have to do with his lusts for women.

So this time it's Delilah... and despite her obvious attempts to destroy him, he keeps going back?! What drew him back? Was the cry of his flesh so strong that he was willing to play with the threat of death to satisfy his thirst? Or had he already experienced so many victories, that he had become self-confident and proud, thinking that even after he gave her the secret of his strength, everything would still be okay just as it had been every other time? That's the dangers or success... especially among God's people. If we don't stay humble before the Cross, our success begins to go to our head, and we begin to feel proud and think we had something to do with our success and we stop relying on God. And that is always when we fall!

Whatever the case, obviously Samson has not learned his lesson. Again Delilah pleads with him to give her the secret of his strength, and again and again she uses that secret against him. "How can you say you love me when you don't tell me the secret?" she whines. Hmmmm... we've heard that line before! So he finally wearies and tells her the secret. "He tells her all his heart," as the Bible says. And so, the Spirit of the Lord leaves Samson... and he is overcome!

However, God does not wholly forsake Samson, as evidenced by the answer to Samson's final prayer. And in the end, Samson is finally avenged of his enemies!

You know what is beautiful? Even in this twisted story, we can see pictures of Jesus. Samson was betrayed by a woman. Jesus was also betrayed by a woman (His church). Samson was put between two beams, and Jesus was put between two crosses. Samson killed more in his death than in His life, so Jesus saved more in His death than He did in His life!

The story of Samson in the book of Judges is often regarded as a failure, yet it's interesting to note that Samson is actually listed in Hebrews 11 with the great heroes of faith. So while he may have died as slave to the Philistines, it seems his heart was changed, and God heard his final prayers for deliverance...not just for death, but for eternal life. So there is hope, even in His end.

Tomorrow's Reading: Judges 17-18 and Mark 6

Day 106 - Three "Faulty Mate Selection" Mistakes!

Today's Reading: Judges 13-14, and Mark 4

Welcome to the dysfunctional love relationships of a man named Samson! I don't know if we can even call it love, to be honest...

Samson was commissioned by God from birth to be a mighty deliverer for Israel, and God's Spirit was obviously upon Him. He did not take the Nazarite vow by choice, he was born with the vow. What a future he could have had! I often wonder how the story would have been different if Samson had not allowed himself to be enticed by heathen woman? (And yet even in these disastrous seductions, God worked and overruled.)

As you will see, I had a hard time keeping my notes brief on this one... but I think this story has three signifcant key lessons, especially for anyone that's considering marriage, so I couldn't focus on just one of the three. I have to include all three! So here's my three "Faulty Mate Selection" mistakes I see in this story. Let's learn from these mistakes....

MISTAKE 1: HE LOOKED OUTSIDE THE CHRISTIAN FAITH: Samson left the camp of his brethren and went looking at the women in the camp of the Philistines. In the very camp of the enemy, those he was suppose to conquer! Wow!! Satan knew what he was doing. What a way to ensnare the man who is suppose to overthrow the Philistines.

Lesson 1 to avoid heartache: Don't even consider getting romantically involved with ANYONE outside the church or faith. In fact, I would take this a step further--as being in the church doesn't guarantee anything these days. I know this will create some controversy, but I would even go so far as to say, don't consider getting romantically involved with ANYONE that does not show the true authentic fruits of genuine conversion and surrender to Christ. Seriously, as a committed Christian, how can you stand for Christ if you are unequally yoked...when you unite with someone that will pull you down rather than pointing you to Christ, when you unite with someone that will pull you to the world rather than towards heaven, to self rather than to selflessness and greater surrender. The choice of a marriage partner is the most important decision you can ever make (next to your choice to serve Christ). We can't make this choice lightly, or based on whim.

MISTAKE 2: HE SOUGHT TO PLEASE HIMSELF RATHER THAN GOD: "I found a woman, and she pleases me," he told his parents. He wasn't considering anything but his own lusts and his own desires. Samson's path is the path many Christian's follow even today. 

Lesson 2 to avoid faulty mate selection: Recognize that you can't safely choose for yourself. God must choose for you. Ask wisdom of trusted friends, and of godly parents. In fact, I would recommend that you seriously put the brakes on with any relationship that your trusted counselors don't approve or have genuine concerns with. They often see things our love-sick eyes cannot see. In Adventist Home, p. 43, Ellen White writes: "A sincere Christian will not advance his plans in this direction without the knowledge that God approves his course. He will not want to choose for himself, but will feel that God must choose for him. We are not to please ourselves, for Christ pleased not Himself. I would not be understood to mean that anyone is to marry one whom he does not love. This would be sin. But fancy and the emotional nature must not be allowed to lead on to ruin. God requires the whole heart, the supreme affections." 

MISTAKE 3: HE MOVED TOO QUICKLY: If ever there was a time to make haste slowly, it is when choosing a marriage partner. But Samson saw the woman and immediately he told his parents (he didn't heed their counsel), "Get her for me!"

Lesson 3 to avoid regret: Take time to evaluate the character of the person you wish to marry. Don't move too quickly! Beauty is deceitful and is only skin deep. Look beyond the face, the body, the degrees or status, the charms, the romance.... look for the true character. Again, EGW instructs: "Weigh every sentiment, and watch every development of character in the one with whom you think to link your life destiny. The step you are about to take is one of the most important in your life, and should not be taken hastily. While you may love, do not love blindly. Examine carefully to see if your married life would be happy or inharmonious and wretched. Let the questions be raised, Will this union help me heavenward? Will it increase my love for God? And will it enlarge my sphere of usefulness in this life? If these reflections present no drawback, then in the fear of God move forward." (Adventist Home, p. 45)

So Samson marries the Philistine woman, despite his parents objections. And before the wedding feast is over, he's already having marital problems!

Can you imagine your bride/groom trying to entice you, during your honeymoon, to betray you so that your enemies get the prize instead of you? And look at how she entices...The same way many woman still do today... she weeps and whines, and she says, "Since you won't do what I ask, you don't love me?" (These techniques are called "emotional manipulation" to get your way, and how destructive to respect in relationships) Big warning signs: If anyone uses manipulation or claims, "You don't love me since you won't do such and such" (especially if such and such does not glorify God), run with all your might in the opposite direction. Danger is ahead!

As the story goes, Samson grew weary with the constant weeping and nagging (what man wouldn't), and so he finally tells her the secret to the riddle... and she turns and stabs him in the back. So... ere the wedding week is barely over, he kills 30 men to get the reward. He then angrily storms home, and his wife was then given to another man. In the NKJV it says, she was given "to his companion, who had been his best man." (So much for "Happily ever After" with the woman that "pleased" him!) 

You would think Samson would have learned his lesson... but no... unfortunately he hasn't. However, I have to ask, have we learned our lesson either?

[End Note: By the way... if you yourself are not a consecrated committed Christian, then it is very likely that you will make these "Faulty Mate Selection" mistakes. In fact, you are the ONE that I would advise others to run from! ;-) I know this might sound harsh, but until you find your contentment, peace, and satisfaction in Christ alone, you can never be completely happy united with another. That's why I'd encourage you to get your life right with Christ before you look for Romance. Christ must be our first love, our first romance! No one, however perfect and godly they may be, can take the place of Christ in our heart. Seek Him first, find purpose and fulfillment in Him. Start there, then everything else in your life will come!]

Dear Jesus, Please forgive us when we look outside of YOU for happiness and satisfaction. Forgive us when we too seek to please ourselves rather than living our life for Your glory to please You, the One who gave Your life on our behalf. Forgive us when we rush ahead pursuing our own plans, following our own wisdom, instead of waiting upon You for Your leading and guidance. Forgive us for not asking for divine wisdom, and following our heart, which is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked. It is so easy for us to make the same mistakes that Samson made, even in our daily life today. Forgive us Lord!

Tomorrow's Reading: Judges 15-16 and Mark 5

Day 105 - Ready for Either...

Today's Reading: Judges 11-12 and Ps. 42-43

Judges 11 brought a stab of pain to my heart as I read... I remember feeling this same pain as I child when I first heard this story... the story of Jephthah's daughter.

God again raises up another deliverer for Israel...a man named Jephthah, born of a harlot, and shunned by his brethren. But he served God and made a vow to God that if God would give him victory over the Ammonites, that he would offer as a sacrifice whatever came out first of his door to meet him when he returned home. Well, as we see in Judges 11, God did give him victory. But when he returned home, who should come from his home to meet him, but his daughter and only child. He tore his clothes in distress! What could he do? He'd made a vow to God?

His daughter was obviously a women who loved and feared the Lord, and she did not rebel against the vow he had made, any more than Isaac rebelled against Abraham offering him as a sacrifice. She only asked for 2 months to go to the mountains and mourn. What a two months that must have been, knowing that her life was over.

Did he really offer her as a sacrifice, or was she just destined to be a single woman the rest of her life, not knowing any man? (That would be a death sentence right there for women in that day!)

I've always wondered... However, it seems from Judges 10:39 that when she returned, he did to her according to his vow, and his vow was to make a sacrifice. And in verse 40 we find that every year after that, the daughters of Israel spent 4 days out of every year mourning for Jephthah's daughter... so I'm assuming by these verses that she went to the altar. (Some things I probably will not understand completely until I get to heaven. This story is one of them. That's why we have to trust God despite not understanding everything.)

But again... what spoke to me most in this reading is her obvious spirit of humility and surrender to the will of God. This story reminds me of an illustration Ellen White speaks of--it's the emblem I think for the Southern Baptist missionaries from the 1800's.

"There is a picture representing a bullock standing between a plow and an altar, with the inscription “Ready for either”—ready to toil in the furrow, or to be offered on the altar of sacrifice. This is the position of the true child of God—willing to go where duty calls, to deny self, to sacrifice for the Redeemer’s cause." Gospel Workers, p. 294

Are we ready for either?

Jephthah's daughter was obviously ready for either, and I'm pretty sure that someday God will reward her faithfulness!

Tomorrow's Reading: Judges 13-14 and Mark 4 

Day 104 - When God says No More!

Today's Reading: Judges 9-10 and Mark 3

Can you imagine what it will be like when God says at the end of time, "No more! You've chosen the path you wanted to walk. The door is closed to Salvation. I will not take you back. I will not forgive anymore! He that is filthy, let him be filthy still..."

Israel got to taste this experience... For not long after Abimelech's disaster rule and demise, Israel again turns back to their idols and false worship, so God once again delivered them over to their enemies--this time the Philistines. Again they cry out to God, but they aren't crying out because they hate sin, but rather because they hate the consequences of their sins. And this time, God says, "Nope! No more! I've delivered you time and time again, and time and time again you keep going back to your gods. Go cry unto them now. Let them deliver you!"

What a dark night that must have been for Israel...

Ellen White writes the following in Patriarchs and Prophets, pp. 557-558. It's a sobering picture of what is going to happen at the end of time.

Sorrow had not worked true repentance. The people mourned because their sins had brought suffering upon themselves, but not because they had dishonored God by transgression of His holy law. True repentance is more than sorrow for sin. It is a resolute turning away from evil. 

The Lord answered them through one of His prophets: “Did I not deliver you from the Egyptians, and from the Amorites, from the children of Ammon, and from the Philistines? The Zidonians also, and the Amalekites, and the Maonites, did oppress you; and ye cried to Me, and I delivered you out of their hand. Yet ye have forsaken Me, and served other gods: wherefore I will deliver you no more. Go and cry unto the gods which ye have chosen; let them deliver you in the time of your tribulation.” 

These solemn and fearful words carry the mind forward to another scene—the great day of final judgment—when the rejecters of God’s mercy and the despisers of His grace shall be brought face to face with His justice. At that tribunal must they render an account who have devoted their God-given talents of time, of means, or of intellect, to serving the gods of this world. They have forsaken their true and loving Friend, to follow the path of convenience and worldly pleasure. They intended at some time to return to God; but the world with its follies and deceptions absorbed the attention. Frivolous amusements, pride of dress, indulgence of appetite, hardened the heart and benumbed the conscience, so that the voice of truth was not heard. Duty was despised. Things of infinite value were lightly esteemed, until the heart lost all desire to sacrifice for Him who has given so much for man. But in the reaping time they will gather that which they have sown. 

Saith the Lord: “I have called, and ye refused; I have stretched out My hand, and no man regarded; but ye have set at nought all My counsel, and would none of My reproof: ... when your fear cometh as desolation, and your destruction cometh as a whirlwind; when distress and anguish cometh upon you. Then shall they call upon Me, but I will not answer; they shall seek Me early, but they shall not find Me: for that they hated knowledge, and did not choose the fear of the Lord: they would none of My counsel: they despised all My reproof. Therefore shall they eat of the fruit of their own way, and be filled with their own devices.” “But whoso hearkeneth unto Me shall dwell safely, and shall be quiet from fear of evil.” Proverbs 1:24-31, 33."

The good news is, the door of probation has not closed yet. He still hears when we call. He still forgives when we confess our sins. But there's no time to waste. Hebrews 3:15 tells us, "While it is said, To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts, as in the provocation." Let's not tempt God. Let's follow after Him with all our hearts, so that when the end comes for us He will say, "No more suffering my child, no more pain. No more temptations, no more struggles. You are mine and I'm taking you HOME!"

Tomorrow's Reading: Judges 11-12 and Psalms 42-43

Day 103 - What can God do with less than 1%?

Today's Reading: Judges 7-8 and Mark 2

It's been difficult for me to decide today what to comment on in this blog. I love the story of Gideon, and I also love the story of Jesus healing the paralytic. I see a common thread in both stories however, and that is -- Faith! (I will mostly talk about Gideon and comment briefly on Mark 2.)

Gideon started with an army of 32,000, up against an army of Midianites that could not be numbered. The odds don't look good for Israel! So God makes the odds look even less good. "Tell whoever is fearful and afraid to go home!" (In other words, tell those that don't have faith, that don't really trust me to lead them in this battle to go home.) So 22,000 men returned home, leaving Gideon with only 10,000 men. Hmmm... Gideon must have been feeling a bit apprehensive to see his army slimmed so drastically. That's like over 2/3rds of his army instantly gone! But God wants to make the odds even more impossible. "It's still too many!" He tells Gideon. So the Lord commands Gideon to bring his army to the water. There was a greater test of faith needed. And this test must happen at the Water. (What is the water? The Word of God... will we trust the Word or will we look to our feelings or our comforts.

Eph. 5:26 says, "That he might sanctify and cleanse it [me] with the washing of water by the word."

The army needed to purified, cleansed, filtered out by who would REALLY take God at His Word.

Those who lap the water by bringing the water to their mouth with their hands, they are the ones God will use. These 300 that remained showed an alertness, a courage, and a self-control not seen by the 9,700 others. They were also men of faith in God's Word!

Ellen White tells us:

"By the simplest means character is often tested. Those who in time of peril were intent upon supplying their own wants were not the men to be trusted in an emergency. The Lord has no place in His work for the indolent and self-indulgent. The men of His choice were the few who would not permit their own wants to delay them in the discharge of duty. The three hundred chosen men not only possessed courage and self-control, but they were men of faith. They had not defiled themselves with idolatry. God could direct them, and through them He could work deliverance for Israel. Success does not depend upon numbers. God can deliver by few as well as by many. He is honored not so much by the great numbers as by the character of those who serve Him." (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 549)

However, just consider this amazing fallout of Gideon's army: 300 is 0.009375 of 32000. So Gideon ends up with less than 1% of the original army that he started with. Wow!!! By human standards this is simply I_M_P_O_S_S_I_B_L_E!

And yet God delivered the Midianites into Gideon's hand! It's interesting that when Gideon went into the Midianite camp, to eavesdrop, the enemy prophesied their own doom. They said the "Sword of Gideon" is going to come upon us. However, when Gideon lines up His army with their torches, he instructs them to shout, "The sword of the LORD and Gideon." It's the Lord's work first... Gideon is simply cooperating with the Lord. Then the pitchers with torches inside are broken and the light shines forth across the dark valley. And the Midianites flee from the light, to their death... Isn't that how it is today as well. Christ is the Light of the world, we are reflectors of His light, and when the truth shines forth, those that are not of God always run from the light. And unfortunately, they run to their death!

I love how even after the successful battle, when Israel tried to make Gideon to be their ruler, he refused. "No, I will not rule over you, nor will my son rule over you. The Lord shall rule over you."

Gideon's life was not perfect, as we see by what follows, but he was a man of faith and God honored that faith and used him in his time.

In today's reading in Mark 2, a group of friends brought a paralytic to Jesus. They probably weren't perfect men either, but they had faith, and Jesus honored their faith (the faith of those friends) and as a result the paralytic was healed.

Just imagine the work, the salvation, the deliverance that could come and will come... if we would TODAY have faith... faith like Gideon's less than 1% army... and faith like the friends of the paralytic.

Wow - so many rich lessons and even pictures of Jesus in this reading! I'm having a hard time stopping...

Tomorrow's Reading: Judges 9-10 and Mark 3

Day 102 - If the Lord is with us... WHY?

Today's Reading: Judges 5-6 and Ps. 40-41

I love the story of Gideon, and in today's reading we find the Angel of the Lord coming to Gideon, and commissioning him to deliver Israel. He tells Gideon, "The Lord is with you!" However, rather than rejoicing at the proclamation, Gideon's response is, "If the Lord is with us, why have all these things come upon us...?"

I was thinking about this statement and how we often ask the same question. If the Lord is with me, why am I having so many trials? If the Lord is with me, why does it seem like everything is going wrong sometimes? If the Lord is with me, why does it feel like I'm in captivity? If the Lord is with me.... [you fill in the blank].

Ellen White says something interesting about this, something that has really helped me when dealing with character testing trials. I want to share that here.

Many who sincerely consecrate their lives to God’s service are surprised and disappointed to find themselves, as never before, confronted by obstacles and beset by trials and perplexities. They pray for Christlikeness of character, for a fitness for the Lord’s work, and they are placed in circumstances that seem to call forth all the evil of their nature. Faults are revealed of which they did not even suspect the existence. Like Israel of old they question, “If God is leading us, why do all these things come upon us?”  

It is because God is leading them that these things come upon them. Trials and obstacles are the Lord’s chosen methods of discipline and His appointed conditions of success. He who reads the hearts of men knows their characters better than they themselves know them. He sees that some have powers and susceptibilities which, rightly directed, might be used in the advancement of His work. In His providence He brings these persons into different positions and varied circumstances that they may discover in their character the defects which have been concealed from their own knowledge. He gives them opportunity to correct these defects and to fit themselves for His service. Often He permits the fires of affliction to assail them that they may be purified.  

The fact that we are called upon to endure trial shows that the Lord Jesus sees in us something precious which He desires to develop. If He saw in us nothing whereby He might glorify His name, He would not spend time in refining us. He does not cast worthless stones into His furnace. It is valuable ore that He refines. The blacksmith puts the iron and steel into the fire that he may know what manner of metal they are. The Lord allows His chosen ones to be placed in the furnace of affliction to prove what temper they are of and whether they can be fashioned for His work.  

The potter takes the clay and molds it according to his will. He kneads it and works it. He tears it apart and presses it together. He wets it and then dries it. He lets it lie for a while without touching it. When it is perfectly pliable, he continues the work of making of it a vessel. He forms it into shape and on the wheel trims and polishes it. He dries it in the sun and bakes it in the oven. Thus it becomes a vessel fit for use. So the great Master Worker desires to mold and fashion us. And as the clay is in the hands of the potter, so are we to be in His hands. We are not to try to do the work of the potter. Our part is to yield ourselves to be molded by the Master Worker.  

“Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: but rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when His glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.” 1 Peter 4:12, 13. (From Ministry of Healing, p. 471-472)

So.... while we may not be captives like Israel, perhaps the Lord is allowing certain trials in our life as He wants to refine our characters and draw us back to Him. It could also be, that we live in a fallen broken world, and as such, we suffer the pain of the Great Controversy battle. None the less, God is with us. And He is working all things together (even the bad things) for good.

Tomorrow's Reading: Judges 7-8 and Mark 2

Day 101 - How Many Times Until We learn our Lesson?

Today's Reading: Judges 3-4 and Mark 1

Oh my, reading the chapters in Judges today was quite... well... exasperating! ;-) So we see the children of Israel turn away from God and follow their pagan gods, so the Lord delivers them into the hands of their enemies... They are slaves for 8 years THEN they cry unto God and He brings a deliverer. So the land has peace for 20 years. Then they do evil in the sight of the Lord again, and the Lord delivers them over to their enemies. So they are slaves for 18 years, THEN they cry unto the Lord and He again sends a deliverer and they have peace for 80 years. Then when their deliverer is dead, they do evil in the sight of the Lord AGAIN, and AGAIN the Lord delivers them over to their enemies. And they are slaves for 20 years.... and THEN they cry unto the Lord again and He raises up a deliverer... this time through a woman named Deborah and a woman named Jael. This story is so crazy it is almost comical...and yet how terribly sad to see the history of mistakes and sins repeated again and again... and YET... despite Israel's continual habitual pattern to turn away from God, every time they cry, He answers and sends a deliverer... 

What a sobering lessons! And it's easy to be harsh on the children of Israel thinking, "What in the world are they thinking?! How come they keep falling away from God and sinning again?" Yet, I recognize my own weakness and my own tendency (if I don't stay connected to my Savior) to walk away after the allurements of the world. I know better, but I still wound Him afresh time and time again... I just praise the Lord for the promise, "Him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out." John 6:37. He's waiting, no matter where we've been, or how long we've been away, He's there waiting for us to come home. If we go to Him, He will never turn us away! Praise the Lord!

Tomorrow's Reading: Judges 5-6 and Psalms 40-41

Day 100 - Press Together! Press Together!

Today's Reading: Judges 1-2 and Rom. 16

[Wow! We are 100 days into this read-thru-the Bible in one year challenge! So exciting! I wish I had time to celebrate! However, to be honest, I'm running a little thread bare this week with hectic schedule and loooooong hours at work and very little sleep! So this is not going to be that profound... but my goal is not to be profound! My goal is to post a comment every day about something that spoke to me or jumped out to me in my daily reading. So here goes...]

I was really sobered by a verse in Romans 16 this morning that says:

"Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offenses contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple." Rom 16:17-18

That's some pretty strong counsel we are given! Avoid those that cause dissension and division contrary to the doctrine. 

Rather than creating discord or being silent partners with those who do, God wants to make us builders, building up the faith, building up each other, building up the church. In fact, He's called us to stand in the gap on behalf of a dying world (Ezek. 22:30). He's asked us to be a repairer of the breach and a restorer of paths to walk in (Isa. 58:12). If ever there was a time we need to focus on pressing together in unity (in the truth), it is now!

Thought from Inspiration:

We are encouraged to pray for success, with the divine assurance that our prayers will be heard and answered. “If two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of My Father which is in heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in My name, there am I in the midst of them” (Matthew 18:19, 20). “Ask of Me, and I will answer your requests.” 

The promise is made on condition that the united prayers of the church are offered, and in answer to these prayers there may be expected a power greater than that which comes in answer to private prayer. The power given will be proportionate to the unity of the members and their love for God and for one another.—Letter 32, 1903, p. 6. (To Brother and Sister Farnsworth, January 28, 1903.) 

Now we can see why it's so dangerous to our souls to hang out with people that cause division!

Ellen White writes over and over: “Press together, press together, be of one mind, of one judgment.” Christ is the Leader, and you are brethren; follow Him. Walk in the light as He is in the light." (Christian Leadership, p. 11)

We desperately need the Holy Spirit... and the Holy Spirit cannot come where there is division, discord and disunity... it will only come where there is harmony and love one toward another. 

Dear Lord, show us how to press together as a church, as Your people! Show us how to love one another, in spirit and in truth! May we not be among those tearing down the church, our pastor, or those around us... rather may we be builders, building up the bridges to restoration and bringing healing to Your church! Amen!

Tomorrow's Reading: Judges 3-4 and Mark 1

Day 99 - Choose Ye This Day!

Today's Reading: Josh 23-24 and Rom. 15

Joshua has not only helped the children of Israel conquer the land of Canaan... he's also lived many years after the land was given rest from war. And now he is old, and it's time for him to rest. But before he rests, he gives the children of Israel another challenge.

Be courageous, he tells them! Don't even mention the name of other gods. Hold fast to the Lord. Remember that one man of you can chase a thousand, if the Lord fights for you!

And he makes one final appeal! He sees the tendency of the children of Israel to return to their old ways... He knows that they are even now starting to wander. So he challenges them...

"Choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD." Joshua 24:15

I love what Ellen White writes about the power of choice.

"The will is the governing power in the nature of man, the power of decision, or choice. Every human being possessed of reason has power to choose the right. In every experience of life, God’s word to us is, “Choose you this day whom ye willserve.” Joshua 24:15. Everyone may place his will on the side of the will of God, may choose to obey Him, and by thus linking himself with divine agencies, he may stand where nothing can force him to do evil." (Education, p. 189)

If we choose to play our will on the side of Christ, all His power is ours! What a gift we've been given in the power of choice. In fact, here's some further encouragement that this reminded me of.

"All who consecrate soul, body, and spirit to God will be constantly receiving a new endowment of physical and mental power. The inexhaustible supplies of heaven are at their command. Christ gives them the breath of His own spirit, the life of His own life. The Holy Spirit puts forth its highest energies to work in heart and mind. The grace of God enlarges and multiplies their faculties, and every perfection of the divine nature comes to their assistance in the work of saving souls. Through co-operation with Christ they are complete in Him, and in their human weakness they are enabled to do the deeds of Omnipotence." (Desire of Ages, p. 827)

As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord!

Tomorrow's Reading: Beginning Judges 1-2 and Romans 16

Day 98 - Not one thing has Failed that I've said...

Today's Reading: Joshua 20-22 and Ps. 39

[Personal note: Well, for those that follow the blog, today I obviously dropped the ball on posting! I read this morning and took my notes, but those notes never got to the Internet for many various reasons... It was a full day from start to finish, and here it is 11:00pm at night and I've just returned home from supper at a friend's house and an unplanned Bible study that followed, and I realized I still never posted the blog for Day 98! :-/ So I apologize... life happens! For those that still read, I pray you are blessed! This is going to be brief!]

In today's reading I loved how we see that God kept His promises to Israel and the land He promised them He has given them. In fact, we are told, not a man [not one man] of their enemies stood against them, because not a word failed of all that God promised them.

"There failed not ought of any good thing which the LORD had spoken unto the house of Israel; all came to pass." Joshua 21:45

This also correlates to one of my very favorite promises in the Bible that will come in tomorrow's reading. But I'm going to mention it here. It is Josh 23:14. It says, "And, behold, this day I am going the way of all the earth: and ye know in all your hearts and in all your souls, that not one thing hath failed of all the good things which the LORD your God spake concerning you; all are come to pass unto you, and not one thing hath failed thereof."

This should give courage and hope to our generation today. The same God who kept His Word for the children of Israel still keeps His Word today! Imagine if young people could look up to the heaven's and realize with confidence that they serve a God who truly does keep His Word. Unfortunately we live in a generation of doubt of disbelief, of depersonalization of God. I long to see the faith of this generation restored. And reading the Bible restores our faith! As we see how God honored His Word before, we can have full confidence He will honor it again. As we are told in Inspiration, "The honor of His throne is staked for the fulfillment of His word unto us." (Christ Object Lessons, p. 148)

Wow!! Praise the Lord for these reminders!

Tomorrow's Reading: Josh 23-24 and Rom. 15

Day 97 - The hill is NOT enough for us!

Today's Reading: Josh. 16-19 and Romans 14

I find it interesting in our reading as the children of Israel took over the land of Canaan, that in some places, there still remained a few enemies of the Israelites! They weren't all driven out. And I wondered to myself, "Why? Didn't God promise to drive them all out?"

As I read in Patriarchs and Prophets today, I realized the answer.

"And it was the duty of each tribe to fully subdue its own inheritance. If the people should prove faithful to God, He would drive out their enemies from before them; and He promised to give them still greater possessions if they would but be true to His covenant." p. 511

Another interesting thing I noted in today's reading was the difference between the spirit of the tribe of Ephriam and the spirit of Caleb. Ephraim for one, complained that their inheritance was not big enough. They also complained about Canaanites that dwelt in their land, that they had chariots of iron--as if that was too much for God. Here's what Inspiration tells us about this unique situation:

Another claim concerning the division of the land revealed a spirit widely different from that of Caleb. It was presented by the children of Joseph, the tribe of Ephraim with the half tribe of Manasseh. In consideration of their superior numbers, these tribes demanded a double portion of territory. The lot designated for them was the richest in the land, including the fertile plain of Sharon; but many of the principal towns in the valley were still in possession of the Canaanites, and the tribes shrank from the toil and danger of conquering their possessions, and desired an additional portion in territory already subdued. The tribe of Ephraim was one of the largest in Israel, as well as the one to which Joshua himself belonged, and its members naturally regarded themselves as entitled to special consideration. “Why hast thou given me but one lot and one portion to inherit,” they said, “seeing I am a great people?” But no departure from strict justice could be won from the inflexible leader. 

His answer was, “If thou be a great people, then get thee up to the wood country, and cut down for thyself there in the land of the Perizzites and of the giants, if Mount Ephraim be too narrow for thee.” 

Their reply showed the real cause of complaint. They lacked faith and courage to drive out the Canaanites. “The hill is not enough for us,” they said; “and all the Canaanites that dwell in the land of the valley have chariots of iron.” 

The power of the God of Israel had been pledged to His people, and had the Ephraimites possessed the courage and faith of Caleb, no enemy could have stood before them. Their evident desire to shun hardship and danger was firmly met by Joshua. “Thou art a great people, and hast great power,” he said; “thou shalt drive out the Canaanites, though they have iron chariots, and though they be strong.” Thus their own arguments were turned against them. Being a great people, as they claimed, they were fully able to make their own way, as did their brethren. With the help of God they need not fear the chariots of iron." (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 513, 514)

Again, what powerful lessons for us today!

One more thing that I thought was significant in today's reading is that Joshua waited until all the other tribes had received their inheritance before he requested his. And he didn't ask for the best of the land -- he just asked for a single city. What a model of servant leadership. After the others are taken care of, then I will take what is remaining. Abraham modeled this same spirit. "Oh Lord, make us these kind of people too... servant leaders who truly seek others welfare before our own."

Tomorrow's Reading: Josh 20-22 and Ps. 39