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Num 27:15-17
Moses said to the LORD, "May the LORD, the God of the spirits of all mankind, appoint a man over this community to go out and come in before them, one who will lead them out and bring them in, so the LORD's people will not be like sheep without a shepherd."
As I read these scriptures, I was really interested in the love Moses had for the children of Israel. I have a tendency to see him as, the law giver. A stern man that was firm and condemning. Someone you did not want to cross. But, here at the end of his life after God has let him see the Promised Land, (that he cannot go into) we find Moses not bitter but, ready to go home to his fathers and some of his last thoughts are for the people. He says to God “appoint a man over this community to go out and come in before them, one who will lead them out and bring them in, so the LORD's people will not be like sheep without a shepherd." Moses clearly has learned, as Paul had learned, from the nature of God Himself (1 Cor 13:3) “if I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing.” Moses gets it, his job was to guide and teach, to save them from Egypt. He gave Israel the law of God. He laid down his everyday life for them, but (As Paul says) if there was not love than it was worthless. .
1 Cor 13:6-7 “Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.” This was the life of Moses no one sought truth more than Moses. He was their protector, someone they could trust (in God). He gave them hope when they were the slaves of Egypt. He preserved them by handing them over to the one and only living God. I want to be like Moses, not just a leader with good ideas. Not someone with just good words or good direction but one who loves like Jesus loved. Someone who loves others, because of the love of Jesus. If that love is not there, them I think it profits me nothing.
May God bless you and keep you in His love, with His love and because of His love, in love with others.
Pastor Jack
Next reading Num 28,29; Mark 8;
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Nnumbers 21-23; Mark 6-7
4 Then they journeyed from Mount Hor by the Way of the Red Sea, to go around the land of Edom; and the soul of the people became very discouraged on the way. 5 And the people spoke against God and against Moses: “Why have you brought us up out of Egypt to die in the wilderness? For there is no food and no water, and our soul loathes this worthless bread.” Numbers 21:4-5
God had just given the Israelites what they had been praying for, victory over the Cananites, their mortal enemies. But as soon as God answers their prayer they begin to complain about God’s catering service. In every situation you can find something to complain about and you can find something to be thankful about. Yesterday I was visiting a dear follower of Christ who has been battling for nearly 2 years with a painful case of cancer. She is house bound and facing challenges that most would just give up on. Every time I have talked to this child of God over these many months I have always gone away encouraged. I’m haven’t been necessary encouraged because of her physical battle because that has been up and down but because of her surprisingly positive attitude. She in not an unrealistic syrupy optimist, she is realistic with her life, challenges, and spiritual battles but she also chooses to find God’s goodness in her life. We have a decision to make every morning we wake up. We can either find things to be thankful for or find things to complain about. If you have programmed your mind to be negative, you will have to reprogram it to be positive (Romans 12:1-2). I suggest that you begin a “I’m thankful for”, list and make it a point to add at least 2 things to that list every day. And then every time you are tempted to complain make sure you give thanks to God for at least 3 things before you let out your complaint. You might find that your complaint will simply be forgotten.
God Bless,
Pastor Rick
Next Reading: Num 24-27; 1 Cor. 13
God had just given the Israelites what they had been praying for, victory over the Cananites, their mortal enemies. But as soon as God answers their prayer they begin to complain about God’s catering service. In every situation you can find something to complain about and you can find something to be thankful about. Yesterday I was visiting a dear follower of Christ who has been battling for nearly 2 years with a painful case of cancer. She is house bound and facing challenges that most would just give up on. Every time I have talked to this child of God over these many months I have always gone away encouraged. I’m haven’t been necessary encouraged because of her physical battle because that has been up and down but because of her surprisingly positive attitude. She in not an unrealistic syrupy optimist, she is realistic with her life, challenges, and spiritual battles but she also chooses to find God’s goodness in her life. We have a decision to make every morning we wake up. We can either find things to be thankful for or find things to complain about. If you have programmed your mind to be negative, you will have to reprogram it to be positive (Romans 12:1-2). I suggest that you begin a “I’m thankful for”, list and make it a point to add at least 2 things to that list every day. And then every time you are tempted to complain make sure you give thanks to God for at least 3 things before you let out your complaint. You might find that your complaint will simply be forgotten.
God Bless,
Pastor Rick
Next Reading: Num 24-27; 1 Cor. 13
Friday, February 26, 2010
Numbers 19-20; PS 28; Mark 5
"Why have you brought up the assembly of the Lord into the wilderness, that we and our animals should die here? Numbers 20:4
"For she said, "If only I may touch His clothes, I shall be made well," Mark 5:28
I have chosen to highlight two contrasting statements of belief in our readings today. Both the children of Israel and woman were in need of a miracle, but how they come to the Lord is very different. The people in the desert whining and complaining, and the woman in confidence, and tremendous faith. When you look at a glass, that is half empty, is it half empty, or is it half full? The woman knew that her condition and circumstance can be changed by the power that comes from Jesus. It was a bold prayer that would run the risk of her feeling embarrassed and singled out. This is what Jesus says about her faith in verse 34. "And He said to her, "daughter, your faith has made you well, Go in peace, and be healed of your affliction." After 12 years of affliction and seeing no promise of a miracle she believed in the power of Jesus Christ. In contrast the Children of Israel had wintessed and been on the receiving end of many miracles yet still lacked belief. Sometimes we are liked spoiled little children that get all upset if we don't get what we want and when we want it. God is into growing our faith and not what we beleive is a current felt need. So today reach out to His hem and believe that God as the Power to change your circumstance or meet whatever need you have. The bible says I look up to the mountains where does my help come from. It doesn't say where my problems come from. What still blows my mind is even in the whining and lack of faith God does still take care of the children of Israel. God has humbled me so many times when I find myself complaining about a situation in my life, but I would much rather take a lesson from our passage in Mark and stop whining and start believing.
A repenting whiner, and someone is who believing for you today!
Joe
Next Reading: Numbers 21-23; Mark 6,7
"For she said, "If only I may touch His clothes, I shall be made well," Mark 5:28
I have chosen to highlight two contrasting statements of belief in our readings today. Both the children of Israel and woman were in need of a miracle, but how they come to the Lord is very different. The people in the desert whining and complaining, and the woman in confidence, and tremendous faith. When you look at a glass, that is half empty, is it half empty, or is it half full? The woman knew that her condition and circumstance can be changed by the power that comes from Jesus. It was a bold prayer that would run the risk of her feeling embarrassed and singled out. This is what Jesus says about her faith in verse 34. "And He said to her, "daughter, your faith has made you well, Go in peace, and be healed of your affliction." After 12 years of affliction and seeing no promise of a miracle she believed in the power of Jesus Christ. In contrast the Children of Israel had wintessed and been on the receiving end of many miracles yet still lacked belief. Sometimes we are liked spoiled little children that get all upset if we don't get what we want and when we want it. God is into growing our faith and not what we beleive is a current felt need. So today reach out to His hem and believe that God as the Power to change your circumstance or meet whatever need you have. The bible says I look up to the mountains where does my help come from. It doesn't say where my problems come from. What still blows my mind is even in the whining and lack of faith God does still take care of the children of Israel. God has humbled me so many times when I find myself complaining about a situation in my life, but I would much rather take a lesson from our passage in Mark and stop whining and start believing.
A repenting whiner, and someone is who believing for you today!
Joe
Next Reading: Numbers 21-23; Mark 6,7
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Number 17-18; Psa. 28; Mark4
30 Then He said, “To what shall we liken the kingdom of God? Or with what parable shall we picture it? 31 It is like a mustard seed which, when it is sown on the ground, is smaller than all the seeds on earth; 32 but when it is sown, it grows up and becomes greater than all herbs, and shoots out large branches, so that the birds of the air may nest under its shade.” Mark 4:30-32
It keeps growing and growing and growing. There are more followers of Jesus today then there has ever been. In spite of all the dooms day messages about the church, it keeps growing. Oh yes there are places like Europe and sad trends in the United States but the world is seeing unprecedented growth of the Kingdom of God. In the fastest growing populations in the world like India and Africa the gospel is spreading like wildfire. God is still taking mustard seeds and making bird branches. Just stop and think about it for a minute, one of the most unnatural things in the world is when an enemy of God decides to repent and turn toward God. The Scriptures says it this way, “no one seeks after God, they have all gone their own way”. Every repentant sinner is a miracle and yet it keeps happening, the kingdom keeps growing, lives keep changing, souls keep getting rescued and though we have strategies, plans and ideas of how to make it happen the truth is it happens because God is still growing things because God has a green thumb when it comes to human lives. I’m glad I’m on His side.
Blessing,
Pastor Rick
Next reading: Numbers 19-20; Psa. 28, Mark 5
It keeps growing and growing and growing. There are more followers of Jesus today then there has ever been. In spite of all the dooms day messages about the church, it keeps growing. Oh yes there are places like Europe and sad trends in the United States but the world is seeing unprecedented growth of the Kingdom of God. In the fastest growing populations in the world like India and Africa the gospel is spreading like wildfire. God is still taking mustard seeds and making bird branches. Just stop and think about it for a minute, one of the most unnatural things in the world is when an enemy of God decides to repent and turn toward God. The Scriptures says it this way, “no one seeks after God, they have all gone their own way”. Every repentant sinner is a miracle and yet it keeps happening, the kingdom keeps growing, lives keep changing, souls keep getting rescued and though we have strategies, plans and ideas of how to make it happen the truth is it happens because God is still growing things because God has a green thumb when it comes to human lives. I’m glad I’m on His side.
Blessing,
Pastor Rick
Next reading: Numbers 19-20; Psa. 28, Mark 5
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Numbers 14-16; Mark 3
8 Then Moses said to Korah, “Hear now, you sons of Levi: 9 Is it a small thing to you that the God of Israel has separated you from the congregation of Israel, to bring you near to Himself, to do the work of the tabernacle of the LORD, and to stand before the congregation to serve them; Num. 16:8-9
Are reading takes us to another challenge of Moses authority but this time reveals another deep truth for all of us to contemplate. It is found in the phrase “is it a small thing to you”. Korah and his offspring were given a high place of ministry. They were to take care of and serve the people by serving the tabernacle. But that wasn’t enough for them. They wanted more, maybe it is because they wanted more power or maybe they wanted more fame or more notoriety. Whatever they wanted more of, it only revealed that the call of God was not enough for them. They did not see the value of what God had given for them to serve. Over the years I have seen this same attitude rear its ugly head over and over again. It often starts with a lack of seeing the whole picture, they don’t see how what they do actually makes a difference. They consider their service as a small thing, but in the ministry there are know small things because every little thing can have eternal consequences. Maybe Korah thought that since he was serving faithfully that Moses owed him something, maybe the congregation owed him something. People who view there service as serving the church rather than serving the Lord will often become dissatisfied and critical. They often complain that they have given a lot to the church, and there is the problem, they gave to the church and not to the Lord. Our ministry now matter how people orientated it is must always be as unto him. Jesus said, “In that you have done it to the least of these your brethren, you have done it to Me. If your job is to pick up papers in the parking lot, and that is what God has called you to at this season in your life, do it unto him and never, ever consider it a small thing.
Pastor Rick
Next reading: Numbers 17-18,Psa. 29; Mark 4
Are reading takes us to another challenge of Moses authority but this time reveals another deep truth for all of us to contemplate. It is found in the phrase “is it a small thing to you”. Korah and his offspring were given a high place of ministry. They were to take care of and serve the people by serving the tabernacle. But that wasn’t enough for them. They wanted more, maybe it is because they wanted more power or maybe they wanted more fame or more notoriety. Whatever they wanted more of, it only revealed that the call of God was not enough for them. They did not see the value of what God had given for them to serve. Over the years I have seen this same attitude rear its ugly head over and over again. It often starts with a lack of seeing the whole picture, they don’t see how what they do actually makes a difference. They consider their service as a small thing, but in the ministry there are know small things because every little thing can have eternal consequences. Maybe Korah thought that since he was serving faithfully that Moses owed him something, maybe the congregation owed him something. People who view there service as serving the church rather than serving the Lord will often become dissatisfied and critical. They often complain that they have given a lot to the church, and there is the problem, they gave to the church and not to the Lord. Our ministry now matter how people orientated it is must always be as unto him. Jesus said, “In that you have done it to the least of these your brethren, you have done it to Me. If your job is to pick up papers in the parking lot, and that is what God has called you to at this season in your life, do it unto him and never, ever consider it a small thing.
Pastor Rick
Next reading: Numbers 17-18,Psa. 29; Mark 4
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Numbers 12-13; Psa. 90; Mark 2
1 Then Miriam and Aaron spoke against Moses because of the Ethiopian woman whom he had married; for he had married an Ethiopian woman. 2 So they said, “Has the LORD indeed spoken only through Moses? Has He not spoken through us also?” And the LORD heard it. 3 (Now the man Moses was very humble, more than all men who were on the face of the earth.) Numbers 12:1-3
Spiritual pride is easy to develop and hard to detect. Miriam an Aaron are starting to feel their oats. The Lord has used them and spoke to them and now they are disapproving of Moses life choices. Maybe it’s simply prejudice that is rearing it’s ugly head. Moses has chosen an Ethiopian, she is an African and not of the tribe of Israel. But now the couple think they have a right to judge Moses. “God doesn’t just speak through him, he speaks through us also.” But God didn’t call you to lead the people He called Moses. Although God has used both Aaron and Miriam they do not know what it is to carry responsibility or the spiritual weight of leading God’s people. It is easy to criticize those who are over us, we think we could do a better job, we know what is needed and we see the flaws of those over us. But God didn’t choose Moses because he was the best leader or a great organizer, it was obvious it wasn’t because he was the greatest orator. It was because he was the most humble, and his humility caused Moses to not trust in himself but in God. Moses was the best man for the job because he was the most humble. If their places were turned and Aaron was the leader, Moses would have never challenged him because he was humble. I have learned this lesson myself the hard way. I know leaders are human and it doesn’t mean when sin is exposed that we ignore or continue to follow a leader that is in outright sin. But we must watch our pride, this sin cost Aaron and Miriam and God had to put them in their place. To be a good leader you must first be a good follower.
Blessings,
Pastor Rick
Next reading: Number 14-16; Mark 3
Spiritual pride is easy to develop and hard to detect. Miriam an Aaron are starting to feel their oats. The Lord has used them and spoke to them and now they are disapproving of Moses life choices. Maybe it’s simply prejudice that is rearing it’s ugly head. Moses has chosen an Ethiopian, she is an African and not of the tribe of Israel. But now the couple think they have a right to judge Moses. “God doesn’t just speak through him, he speaks through us also.” But God didn’t call you to lead the people He called Moses. Although God has used both Aaron and Miriam they do not know what it is to carry responsibility or the spiritual weight of leading God’s people. It is easy to criticize those who are over us, we think we could do a better job, we know what is needed and we see the flaws of those over us. But God didn’t choose Moses because he was the best leader or a great organizer, it was obvious it wasn’t because he was the greatest orator. It was because he was the most humble, and his humility caused Moses to not trust in himself but in God. Moses was the best man for the job because he was the most humble. If their places were turned and Aaron was the leader, Moses would have never challenged him because he was humble. I have learned this lesson myself the hard way. I know leaders are human and it doesn’t mean when sin is exposed that we ignore or continue to follow a leader that is in outright sin. But we must watch our pride, this sin cost Aaron and Miriam and God had to put them in their place. To be a good leader you must first be a good follower.
Blessings,
Pastor Rick
Next reading: Number 14-16; Mark 3
Monday, February 22, 2010
Numbers 10-11 Ps. 27, Mark 1
“One thing I have asked from the LORD, that I shall seek: That I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, To behold the beauty of the LORD And to meditate in His temple. For in the day of trouble He will conceal me in His tabernacle; in the secret place of His tent He will hide me; He will lift me up on a rock.” Psalm 27:4-5
David’s 27th Psalm is a wealth of faith-building, encouraging words. “The Lord is my light…whom shall I fear or dread.” (v. 1) “Though a host encamp against me….I shall be confident.” (v. 3) “For my father and mother have forsaken me…but the LORD will take me up.” (v. 10) “I would have despaired unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living.” (v. 13) These words would not have been penned unless David had been a man that sought God and trusted Him to walk him through all of life’s up’s and down’s. It is through the day-to-day grind, the joys and sorrows, good times and bad times, that we truly learn the faithfulness and trustworthiness of our wonderful Heavenly Father. In verse 4, David says, “One thing I have asked from the LORD, that I shall seek: That I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life.” Interestingly, here is the man who is the King of Israel, a king who has experienced triumph and much of his rule blessed with peace and security. David was a man of great wealth and had every extravagancy readily available, yet the one thing he desired was to “dwell in God’s house”. I believe David came to understand that nothing truly satisfies but being in the presence of the Lord. His life had yielded many triumphs but in David’s mind—the greatest triumph of all was to win the prize of eternity. In Psalm 16:11 he pens, “You will make known to me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; In Your right hand there are pleasures forever.” Seems like David had experienced enough of life to understand that this life is only a small inkling of what is to come for those who trust in the Lord and seek Him first. His closing words in 27:14 “Wait for the LORD; Be strong and let your heart take courage; Yes, wait for the LORD. “Dear Lord, help us to wait patiently for You. To be strong and take courage as we rest in Your promises knowing that we will one day dwell forever in Your house. As we walk on this spiritual journey, give us a heart to reach the lost and encourage those who need faith to trust in Your promises. Amen”
Be blessed today,
Carol Danna
Next Reading: Num. 12-13; Ps. 90; Mark 2
David’s 27th Psalm is a wealth of faith-building, encouraging words. “The Lord is my light…whom shall I fear or dread.” (v. 1) “Though a host encamp against me….I shall be confident.” (v. 3) “For my father and mother have forsaken me…but the LORD will take me up.” (v. 10) “I would have despaired unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living.” (v. 13) These words would not have been penned unless David had been a man that sought God and trusted Him to walk him through all of life’s up’s and down’s. It is through the day-to-day grind, the joys and sorrows, good times and bad times, that we truly learn the faithfulness and trustworthiness of our wonderful Heavenly Father. In verse 4, David says, “One thing I have asked from the LORD, that I shall seek: That I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life.” Interestingly, here is the man who is the King of Israel, a king who has experienced triumph and much of his rule blessed with peace and security. David was a man of great wealth and had every extravagancy readily available, yet the one thing he desired was to “dwell in God’s house”. I believe David came to understand that nothing truly satisfies but being in the presence of the Lord. His life had yielded many triumphs but in David’s mind—the greatest triumph of all was to win the prize of eternity. In Psalm 16:11 he pens, “You will make known to me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; In Your right hand there are pleasures forever.” Seems like David had experienced enough of life to understand that this life is only a small inkling of what is to come for those who trust in the Lord and seek Him first. His closing words in 27:14 “Wait for the LORD; Be strong and let your heart take courage; Yes, wait for the LORD. “Dear Lord, help us to wait patiently for You. To be strong and take courage as we rest in Your promises knowing that we will one day dwell forever in Your house. As we walk on this spiritual journey, give us a heart to reach the lost and encourage those who need faith to trust in Your promises. Amen”
Be blessed today,
Carol Danna
Next Reading: Num. 12-13; Ps. 90; Mark 2
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Num. 8,9; Acts 28
Acts 28:28 Therefore I want you to know that God's salvation has been sent to the Gentiles, and they will listen!"
In Numbers God is separating the Levis out for the work of the temple. The tent making, the offering of sacrifices, the making of the temple instruments for serving God. He even declares which children will be the priests and at what ages they will serve. Starting at 25 and retiring at 50 (Someone tell Rick I am 58). It is the job of the priest to serve the lord in His temple. We are the priests and our body is the temple of the Holy Spirit it is our Job to serve the Lord in His temple. 1 Peter 2:9 But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His wonderful light. In Acts Paul does just that as he calls the Jews of Rome to him and declares Jesus and Him crucified. He goes to them first and some reject Jesus so he tells them Therefore I want you to know that God's salvation has been sent to the Gentiles, and they will listen!"
People ask me all the time “pastor how do I figure out the will of God in my life”? Seams like a self answering question, it is like a carpenter asking his boss what do I do with my profession? The boss says “Make things out of wood” that much you already know the details we will work out later. The answer is the same for every priest “that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light”. The details we will work out later.
May this be a day “that you may declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His wonderful light”.
Pastor Jack
Next post Num. 10,11; Ps. 27; Mark 1
In Numbers God is separating the Levis out for the work of the temple. The tent making, the offering of sacrifices, the making of the temple instruments for serving God. He even declares which children will be the priests and at what ages they will serve. Starting at 25 and retiring at 50 (Someone tell Rick I am 58). It is the job of the priest to serve the lord in His temple. We are the priests and our body is the temple of the Holy Spirit it is our Job to serve the Lord in His temple. 1 Peter 2:9 But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His wonderful light. In Acts Paul does just that as he calls the Jews of Rome to him and declares Jesus and Him crucified. He goes to them first and some reject Jesus so he tells them Therefore I want you to know that God's salvation has been sent to the Gentiles, and they will listen!"
People ask me all the time “pastor how do I figure out the will of God in my life”? Seams like a self answering question, it is like a carpenter asking his boss what do I do with my profession? The boss says “Make things out of wood” that much you already know the details we will work out later. The answer is the same for every priest “that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light”. The details we will work out later.
May this be a day “that you may declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His wonderful light”.
Pastor Jack
Next post Num. 10,11; Ps. 27; Mark 1
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Lev. 7, Ps. 23, Acts 27
"But after long abstinence from food, then Paul stood in the midst of them and said, “Men, you should have listened to me, and not have sailed from Crete and incurred this disaster and loss. 22 And now I urge you to take heart, for there will be no loss of life among you, but only of the ship. 23 For there stood by me this night an angel of the God to whom I belong and whom I serve, 24 saying, ‘Do not be afraid, Paul; you must be brought before Caesar; and indeed God has granted you all those who sail with you.’ Acts 27:21-24
We are still in plan “A”. That essentially is what God was telling Paul. This was not a pleasant ride in a dinner boat around New Port harbor. This was the end of the road in the minds of most of the crew and Paul new that the captain had not taken the advice that God had given him not to sail. But now not heeding that advise was costing them, the ship, the cargo and it looked like their lives. Do you ever feel like the storms of your life have taken you so far off coarse that you couldn’t possibly be in the center of God’s will. Or at least you couldn’t be still on plan “A”, maybe God has had to resolve to put you on plan “B” and maybe you are heading for plan “C”. God told Paul he was going to Rome to preach the gospel but Malta is a long way from Rome and there is storm, but God’s word comes to Paul, reminding him of God’s promise that he would stand before Caesar and oh by the way I have granted you all those who sail with you. The wording suggests that God wasn’t talking about just granting Paul the lives of those sailing with him but the souls. Paul’s prayer for the shipmates would be answered not in spite of the storm but because of the storm. Yes Paul we are still on plan “A”, and yes my friends we are still on plan “A”.
God Bless
Pastor Rick
Next Reading: Leviticus 8-9; Acts 28
We are still in plan “A”. That essentially is what God was telling Paul. This was not a pleasant ride in a dinner boat around New Port harbor. This was the end of the road in the minds of most of the crew and Paul new that the captain had not taken the advice that God had given him not to sail. But now not heeding that advise was costing them, the ship, the cargo and it looked like their lives. Do you ever feel like the storms of your life have taken you so far off coarse that you couldn’t possibly be in the center of God’s will. Or at least you couldn’t be still on plan “A”, maybe God has had to resolve to put you on plan “B” and maybe you are heading for plan “C”. God told Paul he was going to Rome to preach the gospel but Malta is a long way from Rome and there is storm, but God’s word comes to Paul, reminding him of God’s promise that he would stand before Caesar and oh by the way I have granted you all those who sail with you. The wording suggests that God wasn’t talking about just granting Paul the lives of those sailing with him but the souls. Paul’s prayer for the shipmates would be answered not in spite of the storm but because of the storm. Yes Paul we are still on plan “A”, and yes my friends we are still on plan “A”.
God Bless
Pastor Rick
Next Reading: Leviticus 8-9; Acts 28
Friday, February 19, 2010
Numbers 5,6; Acts 25, Psalm 22
"The fire must be kept burning on the altar continually; it must not go out" Leviticus 6:13
The Holy fire represented God's eternal presence in the sacrificial system. It showed the people that only by God's gracious favor could their sacrifices be acceptable. The offerings and regulation system were visible before the people and if you participated or offered a burnt, grain, or some other offering people knew what God you served and who you belonged to. God's fire is present in each believer's life today. The fire was lit when the Holy Spirit came to live in us. Jesus sacrifice and offering is the perfect sacrifice and why we have confidence to come to Him for forgiveness and restoration. What I miss about all the sacrifices and temple ceremonies is the physical presence of God's Kingdom. When I visited Israel God's kingdom on earth was made so real. God's invisible Kingdom is still made visible but it's not just in a tent or when someone bakes a cake made without yeast and mixed with oil (Lev 7:12) We manifest his invisible Kingdom and make it visible when God's gory is made in us. (2 Cor 3:18) In our reading in Acts Paul is testifying in front of King Agrippa how Jesus has sent him to open eyes and turn people from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, so that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me. (Acts 26:16) You might not be on your way to offer grain or avoid certain meats today but we have been called to offer up our lives as a living sacrifice so others can see an invisible kingdom visible. So make the cake but make it for someone else and let your light shine, the eternal light that is burning in you.
In Him,
Pastor Joe
The Holy fire represented God's eternal presence in the sacrificial system. It showed the people that only by God's gracious favor could their sacrifices be acceptable. The offerings and regulation system were visible before the people and if you participated or offered a burnt, grain, or some other offering people knew what God you served and who you belonged to. God's fire is present in each believer's life today. The fire was lit when the Holy Spirit came to live in us. Jesus sacrifice and offering is the perfect sacrifice and why we have confidence to come to Him for forgiveness and restoration. What I miss about all the sacrifices and temple ceremonies is the physical presence of God's Kingdom. When I visited Israel God's kingdom on earth was made so real. God's invisible Kingdom is still made visible but it's not just in a tent or when someone bakes a cake made without yeast and mixed with oil (Lev 7:12) We manifest his invisible Kingdom and make it visible when God's gory is made in us. (2 Cor 3:18) In our reading in Acts Paul is testifying in front of King Agrippa how Jesus has sent him to open eyes and turn people from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, so that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me. (Acts 26:16) You might not be on your way to offer grain or avoid certain meats today but we have been called to offer up our lives as a living sacrifice so others can see an invisible kingdom visible. So make the cake but make it for someone else and let your light shine, the eternal light that is burning in you.
In Him,
Pastor Joe
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Lev. 3-4; Acts 25
27 “Aaron and his sons shall assign all the service of the sons of the Gershonites, all their tasks and all their service. And you shall appoint to them all their tasks as their duty. 28 This is the service of the families of the sons of Gershon in the tabernacle of meeting. And their duties shall be under the authority of Ithamar the son of Aaron the priest.
From our reading today we see God calls out the Levites to serve at tabernacle. Each person has a task to do. Paul says it this way Romans 12:4 "For as we have many members in one body, but all the members do not have the same function, 5 so we, being many, are one body in Christ, and individually members of one another.” We all have these gifts given by God for the benefit of the body of Christ. These gifts are to be used in service or as this scripture calls it the function. The ministry is not an option for a follower of Christ it is a calling. We have all been called to ministry. We have been gifted by God to serve the family of God, and to expand that family. God gave each family in the Israel nation a responsibility and when everyone was doing their job the nation functioned like clockwork but when people dropped the ball the entire nation paid the price. I often wonder what our nation would be like today if every Christian took God’s calling seriously and served in the kingdom. I believe we would be a greater nation with less crime, poverty and corruption. More people would be happy and most of all more would be saved. God changes people but he has chosen to use willing believers to do the work.
Rick
From our reading today we see God calls out the Levites to serve at tabernacle. Each person has a task to do. Paul says it this way Romans 12:4 "For as we have many members in one body, but all the members do not have the same function, 5 so we, being many, are one body in Christ, and individually members of one another.” We all have these gifts given by God for the benefit of the body of Christ. These gifts are to be used in service or as this scripture calls it the function. The ministry is not an option for a follower of Christ it is a calling. We have all been called to ministry. We have been gifted by God to serve the family of God, and to expand that family. God gave each family in the Israel nation a responsibility and when everyone was doing their job the nation functioned like clockwork but when people dropped the ball the entire nation paid the price. I often wonder what our nation would be like today if every Christian took God’s calling seriously and served in the kingdom. I believe we would be a greater nation with less crime, poverty and corruption. More people would be happy and most of all more would be saved. God changes people but he has chosen to use willing believers to do the work.
Rick
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Numbers 1-2; Acts 24
“And the LORD spoke to Moses and Aaron, saying: 2 “Everyone of the children of Israel shall camp by his own standard, beside the emblems of his father’s house; they shall camp some distance from the tabernacle of meeting” Numbers 2:1-2
Well we made it to the book of numbers and all those names and numbers, It seems like God could have used those pages in the Bible for something more inspiring. What a waste of good ink, at least that’s what it looks like at first glance. But if we take a deeper look we might find some gold. In this verse God tells Moses and Aaron to organize the way the Israelites march on their way to the promised land. When you look at the numbers from the tribes and how each group is to march on the east, west, north and south side of the ark of the covenant. From the ground you would have seen just a mass of people marching, but if you could have had a view from the sky you would have seen the Israelites marching in the form of a cross with the ark in the center. Every word of God is pure and necessary. Even if at first glance a portion of scripture seems to have no real reason, it is just that we have a limited understanding a little digging might just yield something precious.
Pastor Rick
Next reading: Number 3-4, Acts 25
Well we made it to the book of numbers and all those names and numbers, It seems like God could have used those pages in the Bible for something more inspiring. What a waste of good ink, at least that’s what it looks like at first glance. But if we take a deeper look we might find some gold. In this verse God tells Moses and Aaron to organize the way the Israelites march on their way to the promised land. When you look at the numbers from the tribes and how each group is to march on the east, west, north and south side of the ark of the covenant. From the ground you would have seen just a mass of people marching, but if you could have had a view from the sky you would have seen the Israelites marching in the form of a cross with the ark in the center. Every word of God is pure and necessary. Even if at first glance a portion of scripture seems to have no real reason, it is just that we have a limited understanding a little digging might just yield something precious.
Pastor Rick
Next reading: Number 3-4, Acts 25
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Leviticus 26-27; Acts 23
“But the following night the Lord stood by him and said, “Be of good cheer, Paul; for as you have testified for Me in Jerusalem, so you must also bear witness at Rome.” Acts 23:11
A trip to Rome , that sounds good. Are we going by plane, train, I would like first class Lord. Oh Paul you are going on horse back and in handcuffs . You are going to get a chance to view the inside of every jail from here to Rome. Paul had this overwhelming passion to win people to Christ. Whatever it took to get the job done, Paul was up for it. In fact he had already said he was even willing to die for the gospel to be proclaimed. So God said I am going to get you into the highest places in Rome. Rome was the most powerful nation in the world and if you want to change the world you have to get to the seat of power. But how do you get into such a fortified city and how do you reach those in power. It can’t happen, there is no way. Well when there seems no way God has a way. No one would have come up with this strategy. We know from reading ahead that Paul would have the opportunity to witness to some of the most powerful men in the Roman empire from prison. He would lead military leaders to Christ and share his faith with governors and local magistrates. Rome would here the gospel from a prison cell, who could have known. Well you know, God knew. If you are like me I am always trying to figure out how God is going to fulfill his promise. Prophesy fanatics have these charts and scenarios of how the Lord is going to actually do what He said he would. I doubt anyone knows but God knows and that give me comfort. “His ways are above our way.”
God Bless,
Pastor Rick
Next reading: Number 1-2, Acts 24
A trip to Rome , that sounds good. Are we going by plane, train, I would like first class Lord. Oh Paul you are going on horse back and in handcuffs . You are going to get a chance to view the inside of every jail from here to Rome. Paul had this overwhelming passion to win people to Christ. Whatever it took to get the job done, Paul was up for it. In fact he had already said he was even willing to die for the gospel to be proclaimed. So God said I am going to get you into the highest places in Rome. Rome was the most powerful nation in the world and if you want to change the world you have to get to the seat of power. But how do you get into such a fortified city and how do you reach those in power. It can’t happen, there is no way. Well when there seems no way God has a way. No one would have come up with this strategy. We know from reading ahead that Paul would have the opportunity to witness to some of the most powerful men in the Roman empire from prison. He would lead military leaders to Christ and share his faith with governors and local magistrates. Rome would here the gospel from a prison cell, who could have known. Well you know, God knew. If you are like me I am always trying to figure out how God is going to fulfill his promise. Prophesy fanatics have these charts and scenarios of how the Lord is going to actually do what He said he would. I doubt anyone knows but God knows and that give me comfort. “His ways are above our way.”
God Bless,
Pastor Rick
Next reading: Number 1-2, Acts 24
Monday, February 15, 2010
Leviticus 25; Psalm 25-26; Acts 22
“The secret of the LORD [is] with those who fear Him, and He will show them His covenant.” Psalm 25:14
What is the secret of the Lord, with those who fear Him? The Lord reveals His secrets to those who fear. A wonderful secret, mystery is revealed in Paul’s writings in Colossians 1:26-27, “Even the mystery which has been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints: to whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.” Many religious systems seek a works based ascension into living a spiritual life—one devoid of fleshly desires and wants. The basic difference between Christianity and other religions of the world is that we do not have to live this spiritual journey on our own. The Spirit of God dwelling in us gives us the power to walk this journey of faith so that we do not have to do it on our own. The Spirit of God dwells in us with power so that we can continue ‘under the spigot’ as Pastor Rick shared a couple of weeks ago when teaching on about the infilling of the Holy Spirit. This is the hope of glory…Christ in you! When we come to Christ, He does not just point to the path and say, “That’s the path you should walk, now go for it.” However, it is that Jesus comes in and gives us the capacity and the power to walk the walk—this is the mystery, Christ in you, the hope of glory! Be blessed today as you allow the glory of Christ to be revealed through you wherever it is God may lead you today.
Living under the spigot…
Carol Danna
Next Reading: Lev. 26, 27; Acts 23
What is the secret of the Lord, with those who fear Him? The Lord reveals His secrets to those who fear. A wonderful secret, mystery is revealed in Paul’s writings in Colossians 1:26-27, “Even the mystery which has been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints: to whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.” Many religious systems seek a works based ascension into living a spiritual life—one devoid of fleshly desires and wants. The basic difference between Christianity and other religions of the world is that we do not have to live this spiritual journey on our own. The Spirit of God dwelling in us gives us the power to walk this journey of faith so that we do not have to do it on our own. The Spirit of God dwells in us with power so that we can continue ‘under the spigot’ as Pastor Rick shared a couple of weeks ago when teaching on about the infilling of the Holy Spirit. This is the hope of glory…Christ in you! When we come to Christ, He does not just point to the path and say, “That’s the path you should walk, now go for it.” However, it is that Jesus comes in and gives us the capacity and the power to walk the walk—this is the mystery, Christ in you, the hope of glory! Be blessed today as you allow the glory of Christ to be revealed through you wherever it is God may lead you today.
Living under the spigot…
Carol Danna
Next Reading: Lev. 26, 27; Acts 23
Sunday, February 14, 2010
Lev, 23, 24; PS. 24: Acts 21
Acts 21:12-13 When we heard this we and the people there pleated with Paul not to go up to Jerusalem Then Paul answered why are you weeping and breaking my heart? I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die in Jerusalem for the name of the lord Jesus Christ.
In Leviticus there is a incident where a man blasphemes God and God tells Moses to take him outside the camp and have the witnesses place a hand upon his head and then the whole congregation is to stone him to death. Then in psalms 24 it says “he will receive blessing from the Lord and vindication from God his Savior” Paul says I am ready to die for then name of the Lord Jesus Christ. It is interesting the differences in how people see the name Jesus Christ. Some as a holiday for his birth to give gifts and take off work. Some as the enemy of the Koran or other religions. Some as a cuss word they can say when stubbing there toe. To some he is a name that represents peace and love. To us who call upon His name and remember what he did on the cross, for us He is the answer. He is the surety of peace but not peace with man peace with God Himself. The truth is there will come a time when all and I mean all, will kneel before him and proclaim “Jesus Christ is Lord”. As for me (we) I chose to do that this mourning.
All I can say is come quickly Lord Jesus, come quickly.
My God richly bless you with the assurance of being able to call upon the name of Jesus Christ as His bride.
Pastor Jack
Next reading:Lev 25; Ps. 25, 26; Acts 22
In Leviticus there is a incident where a man blasphemes God and God tells Moses to take him outside the camp and have the witnesses place a hand upon his head and then the whole congregation is to stone him to death. Then in psalms 24 it says “he will receive blessing from the Lord and vindication from God his Savior” Paul says I am ready to die for then name of the Lord Jesus Christ. It is interesting the differences in how people see the name Jesus Christ. Some as a holiday for his birth to give gifts and take off work. Some as the enemy of the Koran or other religions. Some as a cuss word they can say when stubbing there toe. To some he is a name that represents peace and love. To us who call upon His name and remember what he did on the cross, for us He is the answer. He is the surety of peace but not peace with man peace with God Himself. The truth is there will come a time when all and I mean all, will kneel before him and proclaim “Jesus Christ is Lord”. As for me (we) I chose to do that this mourning.
All I can say is come quickly Lord Jesus, come quickly.
My God richly bless you with the assurance of being able to call upon the name of Jesus Christ as His bride.
Pastor Jack
Next reading:Lev 25; Ps. 25, 26; Acts 22
Saturday, February 13, 2010
Leviticus 20-22; Acts 20
22 And see, now I go bound in the spirit to Jerusalem, not knowing the things that will happen to me there, 23 except that the Holy Spirit testifies in every city, saying that chains and tribulations await me. 24 But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God. Acts 20:22-24
How would you feel like if every were you went their was some prophet telling you your going to be imprisonment and tribulation are awaiting you. That is exactly what Paul is facing. Wherever Paul goes there is a prophet awaiting for him with the same message, if you go back to Jerusalem you are going to be bound and imprisoned. For me I think I would have headed for Tarshish but not Paul. You see while Paul knew that simply because God was telling him ahead of time that difficulty awaited him, he also knew that being in God’s will does not necessarily comfort and ease. For Paul his love for the people of Jerusalem outweighed his fear of imprisonment or even death. What did matter to him was that he would finish his race with joy. There is only one way to finish your life with real joy and that is Paul’s way, “nor do I count my life dear to myself.’ Jesus said it this way “If you save your life you lose it but if you lose your life for My sake and the gospel you will find it.”
God Bless,
Pastor Rick
Next Reading: Leviticus 23-24; Psalm 24; Acts 21
How would you feel like if every were you went their was some prophet telling you your going to be imprisonment and tribulation are awaiting you. That is exactly what Paul is facing. Wherever Paul goes there is a prophet awaiting for him with the same message, if you go back to Jerusalem you are going to be bound and imprisoned. For me I think I would have headed for Tarshish but not Paul. You see while Paul knew that simply because God was telling him ahead of time that difficulty awaited him, he also knew that being in God’s will does not necessarily comfort and ease. For Paul his love for the people of Jerusalem outweighed his fear of imprisonment or even death. What did matter to him was that he would finish his race with joy. There is only one way to finish your life with real joy and that is Paul’s way, “nor do I count my life dear to myself.’ Jesus said it this way “If you save your life you lose it but if you lose your life for My sake and the gospel you will find it.”
God Bless,
Pastor Rick
Next Reading: Leviticus 23-24; Psalm 24; Acts 21
Friday, February 12, 2010
Leviticus 18-19; Psalm 13; Acts 19
"Speak to the congregation of the children of Israel, and say to them: You shall be holy, for I the Lord your God am holy." Leviticus 19:2
Leviticus stresses to "be holy" and holiness, being set apart is the main theme of the whole book. The word "holy" appears eighty times in the book. Some may feel that it's difficult to grasp but according to Jewish tradition it was the first book to be taught to children. It was felt that children should be taught the sanctity of God and the responsibility of each individual to live a holy life. Today's reading I believe is prophetic for us. Earlier today I was led to go to planned parenthood to pray and intercede for the lives of children that are being murdered. I checked the web site for their hours of operation and on their front page are two men laying next to each other with an ad about safe sex. What does this have to do with holiness? 1 out of 6 abortions are done by evangelical christian women and homosexuality is more and more accepted as a lifestyle in the church. Perhaps a more thorough teaching of Leviticus and a reading of chapter 18:22 would bring revelation towards those who call themselves Christian. God is calling us to be holy and being holy is more than living by a righteous standard or dutiful behavior such as speaking and standing against sin. It's making a choice of abandoning oneself to let God be God through us. The only way to be holy and live a life that is truly set apart is being filled with the Holy Spirit. Our other reading in Acts 19 says when the Holy Spirit came upon them, they spoke with tongues, prophesied and walked in boldness. It's interesting that the man who was considered the best man that ever lived (John) was filled with the Spirit and prepared the way for Jesus.
What a day to answer the call to be holy and ask God to fill you with the Holy Spirit. Now go and be a witness as the Lord manifest Himself in you.
Praying for you!
Pastor Joe
Leviticus stresses to "be holy" and holiness, being set apart is the main theme of the whole book. The word "holy" appears eighty times in the book. Some may feel that it's difficult to grasp but according to Jewish tradition it was the first book to be taught to children. It was felt that children should be taught the sanctity of God and the responsibility of each individual to live a holy life. Today's reading I believe is prophetic for us. Earlier today I was led to go to planned parenthood to pray and intercede for the lives of children that are being murdered. I checked the web site for their hours of operation and on their front page are two men laying next to each other with an ad about safe sex. What does this have to do with holiness? 1 out of 6 abortions are done by evangelical christian women and homosexuality is more and more accepted as a lifestyle in the church. Perhaps a more thorough teaching of Leviticus and a reading of chapter 18:22 would bring revelation towards those who call themselves Christian. God is calling us to be holy and being holy is more than living by a righteous standard or dutiful behavior such as speaking and standing against sin. It's making a choice of abandoning oneself to let God be God through us. The only way to be holy and live a life that is truly set apart is being filled with the Holy Spirit. Our other reading in Acts 19 says when the Holy Spirit came upon them, they spoke with tongues, prophesied and walked in boldness. It's interesting that the man who was considered the best man that ever lived (John) was filled with the Spirit and prepared the way for Jesus.
What a day to answer the call to be holy and ask God to fill you with the Holy Spirit. Now go and be a witness as the Lord manifest Himself in you.
Praying for you!
Pastor Joe
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Leviticus 15-17; Acts 18
We are right in some of the most difficult sections to read in the Bible. In Leviticus 15-17 we read about cleansings and washings and unclean things and holy things. We are told of things that make us to unclean to come to the synagogue or temple for worship. Some of these things are simply natural body functions or unavoidable diseases. In spite of the fact that in many cases the individual person didn’t do anything that appears to be wrong and yet they find themselves unclean. We get a glimpse here of how the holy cannot touch the common. The pure must be separated from the impure. Boy God sure seams picky. But in reality He is not picky he’s gracious, because the unclean would not be able to survive in His presence. You might say why doesn’t God just make it so that the common can come into His presence. We’ll he did. It took more than a snap of his fingers whoever to accomplish this. Because Holy cannot become unholy in order for the common to have access to Him. So God had a plan all along but it would have to be at a great price. The holy would have to take upon himself the worlds unholy in one act of love that would forever change what is to be holy before God. In other words as the Paul put it in 2 Cor. 5:21 “He who knew no sin, became sin for us that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.” So keep trekking through those lists of ceremonial washings and thank God we don’t have to do those temporary cleansings for momentary coverings of our sins because we have been washed forever clean by the blood of Jesus Christ.
Pastor Rick
Next Reading: Leviticus 18-19; Psalm 13; Acts 19
Pastor Rick
Next Reading: Leviticus 18-19; Psalm 13; Acts 19
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Leviticus 13-14; Acts 17
“Now while Paul waited for them at Athens, his spirit was provoked within him when he saw that the city was given over to idols. 17 Therefore he reasoned in the synagogue with the Jews and with the Gentile worshipers, and in the marketplace daily with those who happened to be there.” Acts 17:16-17
Have you ever been provoked to action because the sin of the world and the devastation of its consequences compelled you to do something? A hungry baby, a broken family, injustice to the innocent, the lies and deception of the unbelieving world. I’m stirred when I hear mandates from the government to teach young children that immorality is ok and that living righteously is not to be pursued. This week a comprehensive study was completed that proved that youth that were taught abstinence were less likely to have teen pregnancy than those taught safe sex or taught nothing at all. Wow, who would have known? The liberal news commentator that acknowledged the study, quickly dismissed it by saying, “Well this isn’t the only study on this subject”. I have to say my spirit was provoked. My dilemma is usually what I should do about it. What I want to do about it is go on a one man crusade to stop all but abstinence teaching in all schools. I do think it would be a worth while sacrifice of my time and energies but it isn’t heaven directed calling. But whenever I am stirred in my spirit like Paul I believe God is calling me to do something. It might be as simple as making it a focus of prayer, it might be a letter. It might be that I will not support the sponsor, or that I will make sure to encourage others to vote for a different candidate. I haven’t had a Karl’s Junior Hamburger in three years since they did that Paris Hilton commercial. Do I think they are going to stop using sex to sell hamburgers to adolescence because I haven’t been in there drive-thru in awhile? No, I’m smarter than that. The important thing is that I do something because if I ignore my provoked spirit, there will come a time when I will no longer be provoked and I can’t afford that.
Pastor Rick
Next reading: Lev.15-17; Acts 18
Have you ever been provoked to action because the sin of the world and the devastation of its consequences compelled you to do something? A hungry baby, a broken family, injustice to the innocent, the lies and deception of the unbelieving world. I’m stirred when I hear mandates from the government to teach young children that immorality is ok and that living righteously is not to be pursued. This week a comprehensive study was completed that proved that youth that were taught abstinence were less likely to have teen pregnancy than those taught safe sex or taught nothing at all. Wow, who would have known? The liberal news commentator that acknowledged the study, quickly dismissed it by saying, “Well this isn’t the only study on this subject”. I have to say my spirit was provoked. My dilemma is usually what I should do about it. What I want to do about it is go on a one man crusade to stop all but abstinence teaching in all schools. I do think it would be a worth while sacrifice of my time and energies but it isn’t heaven directed calling. But whenever I am stirred in my spirit like Paul I believe God is calling me to do something. It might be as simple as making it a focus of prayer, it might be a letter. It might be that I will not support the sponsor, or that I will make sure to encourage others to vote for a different candidate. I haven’t had a Karl’s Junior Hamburger in three years since they did that Paris Hilton commercial. Do I think they are going to stop using sex to sell hamburgers to adolescence because I haven’t been in there drive-thru in awhile? No, I’m smarter than that. The important thing is that I do something because if I ignore my provoked spirit, there will come a time when I will no longer be provoked and I can’t afford that.
Pastor Rick
Next reading: Lev.15-17; Acts 18
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Leviticus 10-12; Acts 16
1 Then Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron, each took his censer and put fire in it, put incense on it, and offered profane fire before the LORD, which He had not commanded them. 2 So fire went out from the LORD and devoured them, and they died before the LORD. 3 And Moses said to Aaron, “This is what the LORD spoke, saying: ‘By those who come near Me I must be regarded as holy; And before all the people I must be glorified.’”
How do you approach the living God. Well we can learn from Nadab and Abihu that you don’t do it with disrespect and you don’t take that which is holy and treat it as common. These two knuckleheads thought they could approach the great I AM, the Eternal Creator of the universe with a haphazard irreverent worship. They brought a disrespectful form of worship. It cost them their life but more than that it probably saved countless lives from making the same mistake. God is an incredibly merciful lover of our soul but we must never forget that he is the Almighty. Nadab and Abihu were used as an example and I am glad that everyone that worships disrespectfully doesn’t have the same ending. God is gracious, but worship needs to be done with respect and in a way that glorifies God. So much for the “I will worship God my way” crowd.
God Bless,
Pastor Rick
Next reading: Lev. 13-14; Acts 17
How do you approach the living God. Well we can learn from Nadab and Abihu that you don’t do it with disrespect and you don’t take that which is holy and treat it as common. These two knuckleheads thought they could approach the great I AM, the Eternal Creator of the universe with a haphazard irreverent worship. They brought a disrespectful form of worship. It cost them their life but more than that it probably saved countless lives from making the same mistake. God is an incredibly merciful lover of our soul but we must never forget that he is the Almighty. Nadab and Abihu were used as an example and I am glad that everyone that worships disrespectfully doesn’t have the same ending. God is gracious, but worship needs to be done with respect and in a way that glorifies God. So much for the “I will worship God my way” crowd.
God Bless,
Pastor Rick
Next reading: Lev. 13-14; Acts 17
Monday, February 8, 2010
Leviticus 7-9; Acts 15
“Then Aaron lifted his hands toward the people and blessed them. And having sacrificed the sin offering, the burnt offering and the fellowship offering, he stepped down. Moses and Aaron then went into the Tent of Meeting. When they came out, they blessed the people; and the glory of the LORD appeared to all the people. Fire came out from the presence of the LORD and consumed the burnt offering and the fat portions on the altar. And when all the people saw it, they shouted for joy and fell facedown.” Lev. 9:22-24
When we read these portions of scripture and discover the requirements for offerings and sacrifices, we tremble at the thought of trying to fulfill these obligations on our own; we would always, always, always come short of God’s glory. (Romans 3:23) says “All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” When we reach the ninth chapter, we see that Aaron is moving in his role as priest. Having just offered these offerings before the Lord, he comes out to the Israelites and blesses them. We see the two-fold office of the priests. First, Aaron was going before God on their behalf, because they could not come on their own. Our transgressions have separated us from God. Under the old covenant, if I wanted to approach God, I could only come to the priest with an offering, and then the priest would have to bring that to the altar before God for me. Then, having gone before God for me, he would return and bless me on God’s behalf. Therefore, we see Aaron here in this portion blessing the people as he represented God to the people. This next picture is dynamic—as the priests and congregation have followed God’s directives with placing the offerings on the altar, having followed God’s commands precisely, it says….”fire came out from before the Lord, and consumed upon the altar the burnt offering and the fat: which when all of the people saw, they shouted, and fell upon their faces.” (9:24) (I would say that was the appropriate response, wouldn’t you?) Do you remember the day you knew that you were accepted? The day you realized you were a child of God. Did you shout for joy? Did you realize the miracle that took place? Today is a great day to celebrate the miracle of our salvation. Remember we no longer have to go to a priest to go before God to offer sacrifices and to receive His blessings. “For there is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all men…” (I Tim. 2:5-6) It’s no wonder the Psalmist wrote, “Oh, clap your hands, all you peoples! Shout to God with the voice of triumph!” (Psalm 47:1)
Shouting joyfully with you!
Pastor Carol
Next reading: Leviticus 10-12; Acts 16
When we read these portions of scripture and discover the requirements for offerings and sacrifices, we tremble at the thought of trying to fulfill these obligations on our own; we would always, always, always come short of God’s glory. (Romans 3:23) says “All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” When we reach the ninth chapter, we see that Aaron is moving in his role as priest. Having just offered these offerings before the Lord, he comes out to the Israelites and blesses them. We see the two-fold office of the priests. First, Aaron was going before God on their behalf, because they could not come on their own. Our transgressions have separated us from God. Under the old covenant, if I wanted to approach God, I could only come to the priest with an offering, and then the priest would have to bring that to the altar before God for me. Then, having gone before God for me, he would return and bless me on God’s behalf. Therefore, we see Aaron here in this portion blessing the people as he represented God to the people. This next picture is dynamic—as the priests and congregation have followed God’s directives with placing the offerings on the altar, having followed God’s commands precisely, it says….”fire came out from before the Lord, and consumed upon the altar the burnt offering and the fat: which when all of the people saw, they shouted, and fell upon their faces.” (9:24) (I would say that was the appropriate response, wouldn’t you?) Do you remember the day you knew that you were accepted? The day you realized you were a child of God. Did you shout for joy? Did you realize the miracle that took place? Today is a great day to celebrate the miracle of our salvation. Remember we no longer have to go to a priest to go before God to offer sacrifices and to receive His blessings. “For there is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all men…” (I Tim. 2:5-6) It’s no wonder the Psalmist wrote, “Oh, clap your hands, all you peoples! Shout to God with the voice of triumph!” (Psalm 47:1)
Shouting joyfully with you!
Pastor Carol
Next reading: Leviticus 10-12; Acts 16
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Lev. 4-6 Acts 14
Acts 14:19-20
9 Then some Jews came from Antioch and Iconium and won the crowd over. They stoned Paul and dragged him outside the city, thinking he was dead. 20 But after the disciples had gathered around him, he got up and went back into the city. The next day he and Barnabas left for Derbe.
In these scriptures I see God speaking about sacrifice. From the scriptures in Leviticus we learn that Aaron and the priests had to make special precautions as to how the animals were o be slain and how their blood was to be applied to the mercy seat. God even told him which animals for which sin. We see God covering the sins of the people until the Lamb of God, The sacrifice of God Himself could be made on that cross. Then we see in scripture that the sacrifice God wants is no longer the blood of animals, but we ourselves. Not our blood but our lives Rom 12:1-2 “Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God-this is your spiritual act of worship”. We are living sacrifices not slain animals but living sacrifices unto God Himself. In Acts we see Paul giving up his life to teach the gospel to a world that needed to know God. He is martyred for the Gospel only to be resurrected and martyred again later in his life. He died not once for the gospel but twice, He was truly a living sacrifice.
I am thankful God has not required of me (and hopefully does not) to be a martyr. Still I want to be a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God. Giving each day to God for His purpose and His direction and glory. Let today be a day like that.
May God bless you and keep you
Pastor Jack
Next reading Lev.7-9 Acts 15
9 Then some Jews came from Antioch and Iconium and won the crowd over. They stoned Paul and dragged him outside the city, thinking he was dead. 20 But after the disciples had gathered around him, he got up and went back into the city. The next day he and Barnabas left for Derbe.
In these scriptures I see God speaking about sacrifice. From the scriptures in Leviticus we learn that Aaron and the priests had to make special precautions as to how the animals were o be slain and how their blood was to be applied to the mercy seat. God even told him which animals for which sin. We see God covering the sins of the people until the Lamb of God, The sacrifice of God Himself could be made on that cross. Then we see in scripture that the sacrifice God wants is no longer the blood of animals, but we ourselves. Not our blood but our lives Rom 12:1-2 “Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God-this is your spiritual act of worship”. We are living sacrifices not slain animals but living sacrifices unto God Himself. In Acts we see Paul giving up his life to teach the gospel to a world that needed to know God. He is martyred for the Gospel only to be resurrected and martyred again later in his life. He died not once for the gospel but twice, He was truly a living sacrifice.
I am thankful God has not required of me (and hopefully does not) to be a martyr. Still I want to be a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God. Giving each day to God for His purpose and His direction and glory. Let today be a day like that.
May God bless you and keep you
Pastor Jack
Next reading Lev.7-9 Acts 15
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Leviticus 1-3; Acts 13
“Now there were in the church that was at Antioch certain prophets and teachers; as Barnabas, and Simeon that was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, which had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them. And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away.” Acts 13:1-3
The birth of the church is an exciting time of breaking unchartered territory. Miracles are happening, lives transformed, and entire communities are becoming followers of Christ. The disciples are learning to hear the voice of the Lord and decipher the leading of the Holy Spirit. They are doing the work of the kingdom of God, which is ministering, serving people. If you are in the trenches for the Lord, you are serving people. You learn that not every one is easy to work with, not every one appreciates you and not every one is ready to follow the Lord at the level you would want. However, do not give up. As Paul later writes in Galatians 6:9, “And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.” Now it goes on to say that “As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted….” There are times that we are seeking God’s direction for ministry, we hit a brick wall, and we need to fast and seek the leading of the Holy Spirit. We can save ourselves a lot of time by seeking God first rather than trying to do it ourselves. You know, we can become self-sufficient in ministry after we’ve had a couple of successes here and there and then the Lord has to knock us on our behind and remind us that it’s His work and we need to seek Him with our whole hearts. So, now they fast, and then the leaders in the church lay hands on them in prayer and some one apparently has a prophetic word and tells them what they need to do so Barnabas and Saul go out to do the work. It appears that they sent them away immediately and they went in obedience. Likewise, Abraham responded swiftly with obedience when the Lord called him to leave his home and move on. “By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to the place which he would receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going.” Hebrews 11:8 When God tells you to do something, you need to do it immediately, and do not delay or you might begin second-guessing what the Lord is calling you to do. Respond in faith, knowing that God is going to go before you as you walk in obedience. Like those ministering in the newly birthed church, you also have many adventures awaiting you as you step in to the things the Lord wants you to do.
Serving together,
Pastor Carol Danna
Next reading: Leviticus 4-6; Acts 14
The birth of the church is an exciting time of breaking unchartered territory. Miracles are happening, lives transformed, and entire communities are becoming followers of Christ. The disciples are learning to hear the voice of the Lord and decipher the leading of the Holy Spirit. They are doing the work of the kingdom of God, which is ministering, serving people. If you are in the trenches for the Lord, you are serving people. You learn that not every one is easy to work with, not every one appreciates you and not every one is ready to follow the Lord at the level you would want. However, do not give up. As Paul later writes in Galatians 6:9, “And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.” Now it goes on to say that “As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted….” There are times that we are seeking God’s direction for ministry, we hit a brick wall, and we need to fast and seek the leading of the Holy Spirit. We can save ourselves a lot of time by seeking God first rather than trying to do it ourselves. You know, we can become self-sufficient in ministry after we’ve had a couple of successes here and there and then the Lord has to knock us on our behind and remind us that it’s His work and we need to seek Him with our whole hearts. So, now they fast, and then the leaders in the church lay hands on them in prayer and some one apparently has a prophetic word and tells them what they need to do so Barnabas and Saul go out to do the work. It appears that they sent them away immediately and they went in obedience. Likewise, Abraham responded swiftly with obedience when the Lord called him to leave his home and move on. “By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to the place which he would receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going.” Hebrews 11:8 When God tells you to do something, you need to do it immediately, and do not delay or you might begin second-guessing what the Lord is calling you to do. Respond in faith, knowing that God is going to go before you as you walk in obedience. Like those ministering in the newly birthed church, you also have many adventures awaiting you as you step in to the things the Lord wants you to do.
Serving together,
Pastor Carol Danna
Next reading: Leviticus 4-6; Acts 14
Friday, February 5, 2010
Exodus 39-40;Acts 12
Acts 12:15
Listening and reading reports about what is happening in
Believing with you!
Pastor Joe
Next reading: Lev. 1-3; Acts 13
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Exodus 37-38; Ps. 19; Acts 11
Then news of these things came to the ears of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent out Barnabas to go as far as Antioch. 23 When he came and had seen the grace of God, he was glad, and encouraged them all that with purpose of heart they should continue with the Lord. 24 For he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. And a great many people were added to the Lord. Acts 11:22-24
Barnabas was called a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. I think we all would like to have that description of ourselves. These three things are what made Barnabas able to be used by God so much. Barnabas is best known as Paul the Apostle’s partner, friend and fellow missionary. What was Barnabas’ greatest gift to the Kingdom of God was something that is often not even looked upon as a ministry. Barnabas was an encourager. In fact his name means “son of encouragement” and as was his custom we hear that is what he is doing when he is called upon. He encourages these Hellenists to continue. We need more encouragers in our life. We need people to see the value of a word spoken in proper time is like apples of gold. In a world full of discouragers an encourager stands out. They are sought out, we want them in our lives but they are just hard to find. Maybe you could be one of these rare breeds. Maybe there is a ministry for you that is so needed. Have a good day Barnabas.
Blessings,
Pastor Rick
Next reading: Exodus 39-40; Ps. 15; Acts 12
Barnabas was called a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. I think we all would like to have that description of ourselves. These three things are what made Barnabas able to be used by God so much. Barnabas is best known as Paul the Apostle’s partner, friend and fellow missionary. What was Barnabas’ greatest gift to the Kingdom of God was something that is often not even looked upon as a ministry. Barnabas was an encourager. In fact his name means “son of encouragement” and as was his custom we hear that is what he is doing when he is called upon. He encourages these Hellenists to continue. We need more encouragers in our life. We need people to see the value of a word spoken in proper time is like apples of gold. In a world full of discouragers an encourager stands out. They are sought out, we want them in our lives but they are just hard to find. Maybe you could be one of these rare breeds. Maybe there is a ministry for you that is so needed. Have a good day Barnabas.
Blessings,
Pastor Rick
Next reading: Exodus 39-40; Ps. 15; Acts 12
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Exodus 35-36; Acts 10
“And they received from Moses all the offering which the children of Israel had brought for the work of the service of making the sanctuary. So they continued bringing to him freewill offerings every morning.” Exodus 36:3
Extraordinary things were happening through ordinary people. Willing hearts were stirred to do God’s work. They were inspired to do the work—if they had a skill, they wanted to use it for God’s glory. They were inspired because the people who were using their gifts were their ordinary family members, neighbors and friends doing extraordinary things. They were inspired by God’s blessing on this work. This inspiration came from God and what was happening was nothing short of a revival. These people were being revived by the stirring in their hearts and the testimony of what was happening before them. This stirring produced an overflow of provision for the work at hand. In fact, the ‘free will’ voluntary offerings were coming every morning to such proportion that they finally had to say, hey, please stop bringing your morning freewill offerings, we have more than we need. (Ex. 36:6-7) I recently noticed a regular attendee of women’s Bible Study was not at study. I called to see if she was okay. My friend told me that she really enjoyed the study, the fellowship, prayer and teachings but God had put it on her heart to spend that time doing a one on one Bible Study with a sister from the church that has been sick and can’t get out too much. I was so blessed God had stirred this woman to minister freely with her teaching gift. When God touches ordinary people, extraordinary things happen. When hearts are willing, God can stir them to do amazing things. There is nothing more exciting than seeing a bunch of people doing the work of the kingdom, blessing the kingdom with their voluntary gifting and gifts. “Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give.” Matthew 10:8
Next reading: Exodus 37-38; Psalm 19; Acts 11
Extraordinary things were happening through ordinary people. Willing hearts were stirred to do God’s work. They were inspired to do the work—if they had a skill, they wanted to use it for God’s glory. They were inspired because the people who were using their gifts were their ordinary family members, neighbors and friends doing extraordinary things. They were inspired by God’s blessing on this work. This inspiration came from God and what was happening was nothing short of a revival. These people were being revived by the stirring in their hearts and the testimony of what was happening before them. This stirring produced an overflow of provision for the work at hand. In fact, the ‘free will’ voluntary offerings were coming every morning to such proportion that they finally had to say, hey, please stop bringing your morning freewill offerings, we have more than we need. (Ex. 36:6-7) I recently noticed a regular attendee of women’s Bible Study was not at study. I called to see if she was okay. My friend told me that she really enjoyed the study, the fellowship, prayer and teachings but God had put it on her heart to spend that time doing a one on one Bible Study with a sister from the church that has been sick and can’t get out too much. I was so blessed God had stirred this woman to minister freely with her teaching gift. When God touches ordinary people, extraordinary things happen. When hearts are willing, God can stir them to do amazing things. There is nothing more exciting than seeing a bunch of people doing the work of the kingdom, blessing the kingdom with their voluntary gifting and gifts. “Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give.” Matthew 10:8
Next reading: Exodus 37-38; Psalm 19; Acts 11
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Exodus 33-34: Ps. 16; Acts 9
“And He said, “My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.” Then he said to Him, “If Your Presence does not go with us, do not bring us up from here.”
Exodus 33:14-15
Moses understood that having God’s presence with him and the people was the most important thing. He had the staff of God that the Lord used to do great miracles of deliverance but that cannot replace the presence of the Lord. A lot of people make the works of God their objective. We want to see God do great things for us. We want to pray and have a miracle, a healing, a financial breakthrough, a relational restoration, a powerful deliverance. We seek God’s hand but Moses sought God’s face. He just wanted God and no amount of power could replace simply his presence. The immature don’t understand the value of relationships they tend to see a relationship as a means to an end. Children for instance often are oblivious of the value of parents relationship, an immature teenager wants the key to the car but isn’t interested in simply hanging out with the folks. Give me my allowance and get out of the way. If that youngster grows in maturity, they begin to realize that the things they are given simply get old and deteriorates but the friendships, the relationships that is what satisfies. I believe God understands our immaturity and he is extremely patient, but I also believe He loves to here if you don’t go with us we won’t go. He longs for us to mature to the point that it isn’t the things we get from his hand that we seek after but the smile on his face, the sound of His voice, the sense of his presence. You face oh Lord we seek.
God Bless,
Pastor Rick
Next Reading: Exodus 35-36; Acts 10
Exodus 33:14-15
Moses understood that having God’s presence with him and the people was the most important thing. He had the staff of God that the Lord used to do great miracles of deliverance but that cannot replace the presence of the Lord. A lot of people make the works of God their objective. We want to see God do great things for us. We want to pray and have a miracle, a healing, a financial breakthrough, a relational restoration, a powerful deliverance. We seek God’s hand but Moses sought God’s face. He just wanted God and no amount of power could replace simply his presence. The immature don’t understand the value of relationships they tend to see a relationship as a means to an end. Children for instance often are oblivious of the value of parents relationship, an immature teenager wants the key to the car but isn’t interested in simply hanging out with the folks. Give me my allowance and get out of the way. If that youngster grows in maturity, they begin to realize that the things they are given simply get old and deteriorates but the friendships, the relationships that is what satisfies. I believe God understands our immaturity and he is extremely patient, but I also believe He loves to here if you don’t go with us we won’t go. He longs for us to mature to the point that it isn’t the things we get from his hand that we seek after but the smile on his face, the sound of His voice, the sense of his presence. You face oh Lord we seek.
God Bless,
Pastor Rick
Next Reading: Exodus 35-36; Acts 10
Monday, February 1, 2010
Exodus 30-32; Acts 8
“Then the LORD spoke to Moses, saying: “See, I have called by name Bezalel the son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah. And I have filled him with the Spirit of God, in wisdom, in understanding, in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship, to design artistic works, to work in gold, in silver, in bronze.” Exodus 31:1-4
One of the most beautiful aspects of the body of Christ is the incredible God-given gifts that we see throughout the church. Here, the scripture notes a man named Bezalel who the Lord tells Moses “I have filled him (meaning Bezalel) with the Spirit of God…to design artistic works”. The Spirit of God filled this man with the wisdom, understanding, knowledge and workmanship to be artistic. Now there are two things I think when I read this portion. First, wow, I would have liked to have seen what Bezalel designed. Can you imagine how beautiful that temple was? When we were standing on the Temple Mount in Jerusalem a couple of years ago I closed my eyes and tried to imagine the grandeur of what the temple must have been like in all of it’s glory—the processionals, the architect, the artistry. Nothing Hollywood has ever imagined or produced even comes close to the pageantry of God’s glory in the temple. That’s the second thing that comes to mind---the glory of God in the temple. Imagine the Spirit of God on these artisan’s to do the work God had ordained them to do? Now, when the temple was done and the pageantry begins and the glory of God filled that place, it had to have been incredible. We have each been given gifts to be used for God’s glory but we need to be filled with the Spirit of God with wisdom, understanding and knowledge. That is my prayer today, “Lord, thank you for the gifts you have given me. Anoint me with Your Spirit and give me wisdom, understanding and knowledge to use these gifts to bring glory to Your name.” Amen
Carol Danna
Next reading: Exodus 33-34; Ps 16; Acts 9
One of the most beautiful aspects of the body of Christ is the incredible God-given gifts that we see throughout the church. Here, the scripture notes a man named Bezalel who the Lord tells Moses “I have filled him (meaning Bezalel) with the Spirit of God…to design artistic works”. The Spirit of God filled this man with the wisdom, understanding, knowledge and workmanship to be artistic. Now there are two things I think when I read this portion. First, wow, I would have liked to have seen what Bezalel designed. Can you imagine how beautiful that temple was? When we were standing on the Temple Mount in Jerusalem a couple of years ago I closed my eyes and tried to imagine the grandeur of what the temple must have been like in all of it’s glory—the processionals, the architect, the artistry. Nothing Hollywood has ever imagined or produced even comes close to the pageantry of God’s glory in the temple. That’s the second thing that comes to mind---the glory of God in the temple. Imagine the Spirit of God on these artisan’s to do the work God had ordained them to do? Now, when the temple was done and the pageantry begins and the glory of God filled that place, it had to have been incredible. We have each been given gifts to be used for God’s glory but we need to be filled with the Spirit of God with wisdom, understanding and knowledge. That is my prayer today, “Lord, thank you for the gifts you have given me. Anoint me with Your Spirit and give me wisdom, understanding and knowledge to use these gifts to bring glory to Your name.” Amen
Carol Danna
Next reading: Exodus 33-34; Ps 16; Acts 9
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