Leviticus 6:1-7:27

Moses begins this chapter with the specifics of the trespass offering; what to do in order to make things with right with God if one was guilty of theft or extortion. The difference between the trespass offering and the sin offering primarily consisted in the fact that the day the person brought the offering, they were also to give restitution to the one stolen from, which would be the full value and an additional 20% (Leviticus 6:4-5).

The various offerings were covered previously, in chapters 2 and 3 of Leviticus, but we have more details in this section. You’ll find that in order to get the entire scope of any of the offerings you’ll have to harmonize many passages of Scripture, typically found in the Pentateuch.

Just as the fires never went out in the Tabernacle, may the fires never fade, or go out in our own personal lives.

Leviticus 6:13 (NKJV) “A fire shall always be burning on the altar; it shall never go out.”

2 Timothy 1:6 (AMP) “That is why I would remind you to stir up (rekindle the embers of, fan the flame of, and keep burning) the [gracious] gift of God, [the inner fire] that is in you by means of the laying on of my hands [with those of the elders at your ordination].”

Am I “on fire” for God?

It’s hard to imagine living life under the Old Covenant but I must admit, the call to holiness as seen in the sacrificial system is overwhelming. Imagine going to church service, volunteering as a minister, or even enjoying a meal in that setting, with the realization that if I was “unclean” – and so much as touched the wrong thing – I could die! I would definitely walk, work, teach, and touch much more carefully.

Leviticus 6:18 (NKJV) “All the males among the children of Aaron may eat it. It shall be a statute forever in your generations concerning the offerings made by fire to the LORD. Everyone who touches them must be holy.’”

Leviticus 7:20 (NKJV) “But the person who eats the flesh of the sacrifice of the peace offering that belongs to the LORD, while he is unclean, that person shall be cut off from his people.”

(See also Leviticus 7:21, 25, 27 – there were many capital offenses)

It should no longer be out of duty, but now out of devotion. It should no longer be fear first, let it now be love – because we love the Lord. The call to holiness should be even stronger now – with more clarity about the cross and cleansing of Christ.

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Mark 3:7-30

I’m always struck by what we read in:

Mark 3:8b (NKJV) “…a great multitude, when they heard how many things He was doing, came to Him.”

I believe that if we get the word out, if we tell our story of what Jesus is doing in our lives, even our personal testimony of how we were saved or healed – others will come to Him. Have you ever shared your miraculous story of salvation?

The crowds were growing, the demons were bowing, the war was intensifying, it was now time for Jesus to train up the Twelve He would  choose to use and  pour “through.” Luke 6:12-13 informs us that Jesus spent all night in prayer before naming the Twelve. I wonder if He was praying about who to choose? Or perhaps He was praying for them? Twelve is the number of Government in the Bible, i.e., the Twelve Tribes of Israel.

Order of names is usually significant in the Bible; Peter is named first, followed by James and John…Judas Iscariot is always named last, “…who also betrayed Him.”

Imagine the pressure of Jesus’ ministry…but it never showed.

• On occasions they were so busy serving, they didn’t have time to eat.
• Jesus’ family thought He was crazy and tried to take Him home.
• The religious leaders accused Jesus of being led by Beelzebub, the ruler of the demons.

Jesus teaches us some important lessons.

First, it makes no sense to be casting out demons by the ruler of the demons, for a house divided against itself will fall (that goes for ministries as well as families).

Second, Jesus was binding the enemy and rescuing the people Satan held captive, because Jesus was/is infinitely stronger than the enemy.

Third, these religious leaders were on the verge of committing the blasphemy of the Holy Spirit (the unpardonable sin). This is the only sin that is unforgivable. This happens when someone resists the witness of the Holy Spirit who points people to Jesus. Remember, it’s not necessarily a sin issue, it’s a Son issue – what will you do with Jesus? Will we listen to the Holy Spirit and believe on the Lord Jesus Christ? When we believe and receive God’s Son, He forgives us of all our sin.

Just in case you’re out there and you’re worried that maybe you’ve committed the unpardonable sin, please don’t worry any longer; just the fact that you’re concerned about it shows you haven’t committed it. Those who commit that sin, who cross that line and resist the Holy Spirit to such an extent, will no longer feel a sliver of conviction, their hearts will become like stone.

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Psalm 37:1-11

It makes no sense to envy the wicked, even if it looks as if they’re doing well, and they’re wealthy, healthy, pretty, handsome, strong, famous and successful; it doesn’t matter. They’ve defied God, and one day they will be cut down and cut off (Psalm 37:1-2, 9).

If God’s people wait on the Lord, trust Him, commit our way to Him, even our lives to Him, if we rest in Him and His ways, then in His timing, we will receive the desires of our hearts (desires that He Himself has placed within us).

Psalm 37:3 (NKJV) “Trust in the LORD, and do good; dwell in the land, and feed on His faithfulness.”

Trust Him in your heart. Keep doing good with those “hands.” Don’t go to other “lands” where you don’t belong. Feed on His faithfulness (the Bible and His many blessings in your life).

Psalm 37:4 (NKJV) “Delight yourself also in the LORD, and He shall give you the desires of your heart.”

What’s the deepest desire of your heart? It’s Him, the LORD! He promises to give you Himself and all the blessings that come with Christ. Please don’t ever wander, just keep waiting for that day.

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Proverbs 10:3-4

Proverbs 10:3 seems to go hand in hand with what we just read in Psalms 37:3-4!

Proverbs 10:3 (NKJV) “The LORD will not allow the righteous soul to famish, but He casts away the desire of the wicked.”

If you have any questions or comments on today’s reading, or you’d like to share something the Lord showed you, feel free to leave a reply below.

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Leviticus 4:1-5:19

In this section of Leviticus we have laid out for us the specific sacrifices required under different circumstances for unintentional sin.

Sad to say, but today, most people make light of sin. We shouldn’t.

As we read through the Old Testament Law we see the sacrifices necessary for our sin to be forgiven, the price was paid by the innocent, their blood was shed to the point of death – ultimately symbolizing the eternal blood of Jesus Christ (Acts 20:28; Revelation 1:5).

You may have noticed for the first time in the Bible the word “unintentionally” – found 5 times in this section.

Warren Wiersbe points out an important principle on this, “The sin offering was for unintentional sins of ignorance and not for deliberate sins of disobedience. For deliberate sins, God made no provision for a sacrifice (Numbers 15:30–31). All the offender could do was plead the mercy of God (Psalm 51:16–17).”

In other words there was no promised provision for sins committed volitionally, there was only a guarantee of grace for sins committed accidentally. It’s one thing to stumble into sin, it’s quite another thing to go in with eyes wide open. Although we now know, as New Testament Christians, that Jesus has made a way to wash away all of our sins, may we not take that grace lightly, but rather let it be used to keep us from presumptuous sins (Psalm 19:13).

If the anointed priest sinned, his offering was equivalent to the offering required for the whole congregation – both called for a young bull to be killed. To whom much is given, much more is required (Luke 12:48).

If a ruler sinned it was different than if a common person sinned, for leaders are to be examples, called us to be blameless (1 Timothy 3:1-13).

God is a holy God whose commandments are intended to protect His people from harmful behavior, so He lays down the Law. Leviticus 5:1 is an example of what we might call a “sin of silence.” Even the mere touch of something unclean was forbidden (Leviticus 5:2-3). Every thought and every idle word was to be holy (Leviticus 5:4).

Warren Wiersbe, “Sometimes we commit sin by keeping quiet (v. 1), or we may cover up (vv. 2–3) or speak out (v. 4). Our sins may be unintentional, and we may be ignorant of them; but once we know about them, we must come to God for cleansing. Sin is not “deliberate disobedience to a known law.” If we disobey God, we are guilty whether we realize it or not.”

God writes to us that we may not sin, but if we do, He provides a way to be forgiven (see 1 John 2:1). If a person was poor and couldn’t sacrifice a lamb or a kid of the goat, they could bring two turtledoves, or two young pigeons, and if a person couldn’t afford that, God allowed them to bring two quarts of flour – that no one (rich or poor) would be excluded from fellowship with Him.

Leviticus 5:15 speaks to those who sin in ministry, “in regard to the holy things of the Lord.” This is sin under special circumstances – as we’ve seen, God holds such people to higher standards, especially in the practice of the “priesthood.” It’s heartbreaking and harmful when ministers fall – as we read in:

Leviticus 5:16a (NKJV) “And he shall make restitution for the harm that he has done in regard to the holy thing…”

We will later read in:

Leviticus 10:3a (NKJV) “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.’’” 

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Mark 2:13-3:6

The Jews considered men like Levi (a.k.a. Matthew), as the worst of the worst. They were Jews who had sold out to the Roman Government and who gouged their fellow countrymen with exorbitant taxes. The religious leaders of the day would NEVER have included tax-collectors to be a part of their company, but Jesus shows us the heart of God. Jesus not only befriends Matthew, He calls him to follow Him, and eventually serve in the ministry. Matthew wisely chose to follow Christ and he would eventually be the writer of the first book chronicled in the New Testament, the Gospel of Matthew. Wow!

May we never lose a burden for the lost. The religious leaders criticized Jesus sharply for eating with such sinners, but Jesus reminded them, and us, that these are the very people we’re called to help. May God give us wisdom in reaching out as He did.

The Pharisees were very critical of Christ – they were offended at His choice of company, how His disciples didn’t fast, and His neglect of the Sabbath (according to their standards). I sigh as I try so hard – not to be like them, legalistic Pharisees, old, unusable wineskins, dividing men and defying God in their petty unbiblical man-made rules and regulations. Are we sure and certain that all our rules are right and standards are Scriptural?

Fasting is a very personal thing; we must fast as God leads us (see also Matthew 6:16-18).

In their attempt to keep the Sabbath (that one commandment), they created “100 more” commandments! Imagine reaching a point in refusing to feed the hungry a little bit of grain, or refusing to mend the broken on a certain day! How far we can drift – even with good intentions!

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Psalm 36:1-12

There is no awe or fear of God in the eyes of the wicked (Psalm 36:1). And yet, God is so good! His mercy, His faithfulness, His righteousness, His judgments, and His lovingkindness are mentioned.

Psalm 36:7–8 (NKJV) “How precious is Your lovingkindness, O God! Therefore the children of men put their trust under the shadow of Your wings. 8 They are abundantly satisfied with the fullness of Your house, and You give them drink from the river of Your pleasures.”

Imagine that…drinking from the rivers of God’s pleasures! May we never forget – no, not for a day, we were created to exalt God and enjoy Him forever – my pleasures should be found in Him!

Is that the case for me?

May we take in His bountiful blessings, and trust Him to deal with those who come against us.

David prays:

Psalm 36:10–11 (NKJV) “Oh, continue Your lovingkindness to those who know You, and Your righteousness to the upright in heart. 11 Let not the foot of pride come against me, and let not the hand of the wicked drive me away.”

Let’s let God deal with our enemies, stay upright in heart, and enjoy His lovingkindness lavished upon us!

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Proverbs 10:1-2

Proverbs 10:1 (NKJV) “The proverbs of Solomon: A wise son makes a glad father, but a foolish son is the grief of his mother.”

In Hebrew poetry this is referred to as Antithetical Parallelism – where a contrast is expressed. Here the contrast is between a wise son and a foolish son.

We haven’t seen his name since chapter 1 verse 1, but here we see Solomon once again identified as the author of the Proverbs, a man who at one time was endowed with wisdom from above.

We read first of all, about children and parents, of course, moms are (generally-speaking), more sensitive, but I think what’s stated here can be the case for either parent, and it’s applicable to both daughters and sons, that a wise child, makes his or her parents glad, but a foolish child brings great grief.

I can’t help but think of a couple of applicable passages:

3 John 1:4 (NKJV) “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.”

Genesis 26:34-35 (NKJV) “When Esau was forty years old, he took as wives Judith the daughter of Beeri the Hittite, and Basemath the daughter of Elon the Hittite. And they were a grief of mind to Isaac and Rebekah.”

I don’t believe this is merely a statement of fact. It’s a word to children to be wise…and bless their parents. It’s also a word to parents, let’s do our best to raise our children in the ways of the Lord

Proverbs 10:2 (NKJV) “Treasures of wickedness profit nothing, but righteousness delivers from death.“

In the book of Proverbs we will see repeatedly, the contrast between the wicked and the righteous.

On Proverbs 10:2 David Guzik said, “Being right with God brings a benefit that money can’t buy.”

Treasures of wickedness may specifically refer to money unlawfully earned, but whether the wealth is lawful or not, no amount of money can deliver from death or buy a ticket to heaven. Only Jesus delivers us from death (John 11:25-27; 1 Corinthians 15:26; Hebrews 2:14).

If you have any questions or comments on today’s reading, or you’d like to share something the Lord showed you, feel free to leave a reply below. I’d love to hear from you as we grow forward in 2021.

Leviticus 1:1-3:17

The book of Leviticus was given to Moses at Mt. Sinai in the one month between Exodus and Numbers (Exodus 40:17; Numbers 1:1). You may have noticed the similarity between the words “Levites” and Leviticus for it was written primarily for the Levites to practice and preach to the people. The book of Leviticus is rich with imagery of Christ and of the Christian life, especially in our call to holiness (a word found 100 times in this book) (Leviticus 20:7).

In these first three chapters we have the Burnt Offering, the Grain Offering, and the Peace Offering. We have details given here on each of these offerings, and we will be provided with further details in Leviticus chapters 6 and 7.

All the offerings speak of what Jesus has done for us, but in some of them we also have aspects of how we can offer sacrifices to the LORD and even be living sacrifices to God (Romans 12:1).

The Burnt Offering is symbolic of absolute surrender on our part – giving it ALL to God (they burnt everything but the skin). This sacrifice must be pure and of our own free will (Leviticus 1:3). It matters not the “amount” we give (cattle, sheep, goats, or birds), what matters most is that we give our ALL to God.

The Grain Offering is symbolic of service. Consider the grain that needed to be grown (work on our parts) and then given to the priests. You could offer the Grain offering raw or baked in various ways (it would be like pancakes). The priest would burn a pinch on the altar and was allowed to have the rest for himself and his sons to consume (Leviticus 1:2-3).

There was to be no leaven, or honey, with the offerings but there was to be salt and frankincense (Leviticus 2:11, 13, 16).

Warren Weirsbe, “Note that God never wants leaven (a picture of sin [1 Corinthians 5:6–8]) or honey (man’s glory and not God’s [Proverbs 25:27]). But He does want salt, which speaks of purity (Colossians 4:6), and frankincense, which is praise to God. What a privilege it is to build a Christian life that brings glory to God!”

The Peace Offerings is also known as the Fellowship Offering. A portion was to be burnt, a portion would be for the priests, and a portion could be eaten by the one who offered the sacrifice (as long as they were clean). It would be as if you were having a meal with the LORD, fellowship together after having made peace…with Him (Leviticus 7:11-21; Deuteronomy 12:5-12).

For a broad overview of the book of Leviticus, here is a helpful resource.

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Mark 1:29-2:12

What a day this was in the life of Christ, ministering all day long, coming home to rest at Peter’s house and yet the labor of love continues. Nothing is too small, Peter’s mother in law is healed of her fever, and nothing is too big, the whole city gathered at the door and Jesus delivered them from everything, even demons.

I believe the key to Christ’s power was His prayer life.

Mark 1:35 (NKJV) “Now in the morning, having risen a long while before daylight, He went out and departed to a solitary place; and there He prayed.

Jesus loved to pray and spend time with His Father (just them, away from the crowd) the fellowship must have been sweet – therein the Father directed Him, and the Spirit empowered Him.

Peter wanted to be Jesus’ manager and start a church in Capernaum, but Jesus had already checked in with His Father, who commanded Him to be a traveling missionary and share the message from town to town.

The leper broke the law of the land in simply speaking to and approaching Jesus in such a way, but the leper had faith, knowing that if Jesus was willing, He could heal him (is this not to be our approach?). Jesus was willing (He healed him) and Jesus was loving (He touched him). Jesus warned him not to tell others for that would hinder His ministry by opening the floodgates to those who were not only ill, but who would come only to be spectators, wanting to see the “show.” I was thinking how different we are from Jesus. If I was used by God to heal someone from an incurable disease I would probably want it chronicled on television, on 20/20, but that’s not Christ’s heart. The Kingdom of God dose not need that kind of advertising in order to accomplish God’s purposes. It’s usually not best to “explode” overnight due to some miracle, it’s probably best to grow gradually, faithfully, and obediently.

I’ve always loved the way these four men brought their friend to Jesus (that’s what friends do – even if they have to make a hole in the roof). Jesus saw THEIR faith and therefore healed the man physically and spiritually (Mark 2:5, 12) (yes, prayer and intercession do make a difference).

Jesus proved to the doubters (He saw their hearts) and the disciples, He is able to forgive sins here on earth – here and now – and then, of course, on and on, and forever and ever.

Are you a believer in Christ? If so, you are forgiven, even here on earth. Wow even now!

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Psalm 35:17-28

People can do tons of damage with their tongues. Saul started it all, and it spread like wildfire, they spoke against David – they did not speak peace, the opened their mouths wide against him (some people have big mouths) (Psalm 35:20-21). 

David spoke to God about it; he prayed the LORD would vindicate him and defeat his enemies. And God did. David knew God would fight for him and promised to praise Him in the great assembly, publicly he would give God all the glory…all day long (Psalm 35:18, 28)

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Proverbs 9:13-18

Another warning against sexual sin. Repeated so we won’t be defeated! May you and I never fall – after all – we can never say we were never warned.

The simple one who’s so open-minded that his brain falls out – falls into sexual sin with the wicked woman who woos him. (Proverbs 9:16)

Sin is sweet for a moment, it’s pleasant even for a season (Proverbs 9:17), but the consequences can be deadly in so many ways – verse 18 tells us that fornicators and adulterers die, sometimes physically and (if that’s your title) always spiritually.

Proverbs 9:18 (NKJV) “But he does not know that the dead are there, that her guests are in the depths of hell.”

1 Corinthians 6:9 (NKJV) “Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites.”

Revelation 21:8 (NKJV) “But the cowardly, unbelieving, abominable, murderers, sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death.”

If you have any questions or comments on today’s reading, or you’d like to share something the Lord showed you, feel free to leave a reply below. I’d love to hear from you as we grow forward in 2021.

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Exodus 39:1-40:38

Bezalel and Aholiab now make the garments for the priests who would be ministering in the Holy Place as commanded by the LORD to Moses back in:

Exodus 28:2 (NKJV) “And you shall make holy garments for Aaron your brother, for glory and for beauty.”

Imagine having gold in your clothing – talk about “threads” (Exodus 39:3).

14 times in chapters 39-40 we read those words, “…as the LORD had commanded Moses.” Moses had received the instructions on the mountain from the LORD, and then he relayed those instructions to the others. They paid careful attention to all the details and did everything according to God’s Word – no cutting corners, no sloppy agape.

It’s all significantly special, but I especially appreciate the Ephod and the Breastplate with the names of the children of Israel over the shoulders and heart of the High Priest (Exodus 39:7, 14).

Jesus carries us on His shoulders and has us on His heart.

For those of you/us who have problems finishing things we start, it is inspiring to read that they finished all the work of the Tabernacle of the tent of meeting (Exodus 39:32). 

After they finished, Moses inspected and looked over all the work to make sure they did it all according to God’s design (Exodus 39:43). Leaders are ultimately responsible for all that goes on, even if they delegate responsibilities to others.

The time had come for Moses to set everything up, to put it all together, to place it all in order according to God’s word, starting with the washing of Aaron and his sons in water (Ephesians 5:26). This time we read in:

Exodus 40:16 (NKJV) “Thus Moses did; according to all that the LORD had commanded him, so he did.”

And in the second year on the first day of the first month the Tabernacle was raised up. God was pleased and the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle.

Exodus 40:35 (NKJV) “And Moses was not able to enter the tabernacle of meeting, because the cloud rested above it, and the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle.”

Moses was definitely a special man in the history of Israel and the world, he was the mediator of the Old Covenant, the Law of God, but we must always be reminded that, “The best of men, are men at best.” There is an infinite difference between man and God.

The Lord so graciously manifested Himself, His special presence to the children of Israel in the Tabernacle. He would personally lead them in the pillar of cloud by day, and a pillar of fire by night, to give them light on the road they would travel (Exodus 40:36-38; Nehemiah 9:12).

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Mark 1:1-28

Warren Wiersbe offers a brief but excellent introduction to the Gospel of Mark, “John Mark was the cousin of Barnabas (Col. 4:10; Acts 4:36–37; 11:19–30) and the son of Mary, a leading woman in the Jerusalem church (Acts 12:12). He helped Paul and Barnabas on their first missionary journey (Acts 12:25–13:5) but for some reason did not remain with them (Acts 13:13). That failure caused Paul and Barnabas to separate, but Barnabas gave Mark another chance (Acts 15:36–41). In later years, Mark became one of Paul’s associates (Philem. 24); and Paul commended him for his work (2 Tim. 4:11). It all ended well. First Peter 5:13 suggests that John Mark was converted through Peter’s ministry. Many Bible scholars believe that Mark’s gospel is a record of Peter’s reports of the ministry of Christ, presenting Jesus Christ as the Servant of God (Mark 10:45). Mark often used the word immediately, for he describes the work of a Servant who was busy obeying His Father and meeting the needs of people (1:10, 12, 20–21, etc.). Mark wrote with the Romans in mind, an active people who admired accomplishment.”

Mark doesn’t mince words. He dives right into it with the prophecies of Malachi 3:1 and Isaiah 40:3 – prophecies that point to the forerunner, John the Baptist who came preaching a baptism of repentance. Virtually “all the land of Judea” went out to him and were baptized by him, including Jesus Himself. 

John the Baptist does his job in pointing to and lifting up the coming Messiah, that in comparison to himself, there’s no comparison:

Mark 1:7–8 (NKJV) “And he preached, saying, ‘There comes One after me who is mightier than I, whose sandal strap I am not worthy to stoop down and loose. 8 I indeed baptized you with water, but He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.’”

People had begun to look to John – he corrected them, “I’m not the Christ, look to Him.” As Christians we are all merely “point-men” pointing others to Jesus.

After Jesus’ baptism the Holy Spirit descended upon Him for empowerment as His public ministry would now begin. He then heard those wonderful words from His Father, “You are My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased,” or to put it another way, “I love You Son, and I’m proud of You.” We see all three members of the Trinity at work.

Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness, where He fasted for 40 days and was tempted by Satan. Jesus defeated the devil and went forward in ministry, preaching the Kingdom, declaring His time as the fulfillment of prophecy, and calling on the people to repent and believe (Mark 1:15).

Jesus personally called His Apostles to be fishers of men, rather than fishers of fish. Peter, Andrew, James, and John all left their nets and followed Him. Of the twelve Apostles, seven were believed to previously be fishermen.

Jesus proceeded to teach and preach with authority, to cast out demons, and bring healing to the people. They were astonished (Mark 1:22) and amazed (Mark 1:27) at the way He did all things with such “authority” (see also Matthew 28:18-20).

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Psalm 35:1-16

David once again is praying for God’s protection.

Psalm 35:1 (NKJV) “Plead my cause, O LORD, with those who strive with me; fight against those who fight against me.”

David the soldier gives God the details on how to fight for him, suggesting shield, buckler, and spear; chase them away Lord, let the angel of the LORD pursue them.

More than likely this was a Psalm written when David was on the run from Saul. David had done nothing wrong – he was innocent.

Psalm 35:7 (NKJV) “For without cause they have hidden their net for me in a pit, which they have dug without cause for my life.”

David had only done good for Saul – even praying for him…and this was how he thanked him?

Psalm 35:12–14 (NKJV) “They reward me evil for good, to the sorrow of my soul. 13 But as for me, when they were sick, my clothing was sackcloth; I humbled myself with fasting; and my prayer would return to my own heart. 14 I paced about as though he were my friend or brother; I bowed down heavily, as one who mourns for his mother.”

O, the heart wrenching lessons in life. It doesn’t seem fair, or right, or make any sense at times – but keep praying, keep trusting. God will indeed work it all out for good.

It’s a sobering thought to think that our enemies “plot” to hurt us (Psalm 35:4). We therefore need to be on guard, to watch and pray. But it’s also a beautiful thought to think that God plans to bless us – His plans are good (Jeremiah 29:11), so let’s seek Him, with all of our hearts (Jeremiah 29:13).

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Proverbs 9:11-12

Proverbs 9:11-12 (NKJV) “For by me your days will be multiplied, and years of life will be added to you. ¹²If you are wise, you are wise for yourself, and if you scoff, you will bear it alone.”

Of course, we know that not everyone who is wise lives long – Jesus died for us at the age of 33, and yet Colossians 2:3 tells us that in Him “are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” – Jim Elliott was 28 when he died as a missionary to the Auca Indians, and yet he was wise beyond his years. Therefore verse 11 is not a personal promise – it’s a general truth (Proverbs 3:2, 16). It’s not an absolute precept, it’s a general principle.

If we’re wise we will avoid the lives and lifestyles that often lead to premature death.

Verse 12 reminds us that we are personally and individually responsible for our lives. We make our decisions, and then our decisions make us.

Galatians 6:5, “For each one shall bear his own load.” Speaking of our personal prosperity or punishment.

Galatians 6:5 (NLT) “For we are each responsible for our own conduct.”

“This is perhaps the strongest expression of individualism in the Bible. Such statements (cf. Ezekiel 18; Galatians 6:4-5) are not meant to deny that people benefit or suffer from each other’s characters (cf. Proverbs 10:1), but to emphasize that the ultimate gainer or loser is the man himself.” – Derek Kidner

If you have any questions or comments on today’s reading, or you’d like to share something the Lord showed you, feel free to leave a reply below. I’d love to hear from you as we grow forward in 2021.

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Exodus 37:1-38:31

Bezalel now sets out to make the Tabernacle and all its items. As he does, we have all the details and dimensions repeated in the process. They obediently made everything exactly as instructed by God.

We’ve covered the furnishings  and garments of theTabernacle in earlier studies (Exodus 26-30). The Ark of the Covenant, with the Mercy Seat of pure gold. The Table of Showbread, the Golden Lampstand, the Altar of Incense, the Holy Anointing Oil, the Sweet incense, the Altar for Burnt Offerings, and the Bronze Altar.

I’ve always been overwhelmingly blessed by what we read in:

Exodus 38:8 (NKJV) “He made the laver of bronze and its base of bronze, from the bronze mirrors of the serving women who assembled at the door of the tabernacle of meeting.”

In those days the ladies used bronze to make their mirrors, but these sisters who served, gave up their mirrors for their Master.

Matthew Henry, “In all ages of the church there have been some persons more devoted to God, more constant in their attendance upon his ordinances, and more willing to part even with lawful things, for His sake, than others. Some women, devoted to God and zealous for the tabernacle worship, expressed zeal by parting with their mirrors, which were polished plates of brass. Before the invention of looking- glasses, these served the same purposes.”

This gesture on the part and heart of these lovely ladies brings 1 Peter 3:3-4 to mind:

1 Peter 3:3–4 (NKJV) “Do not let your adornment be merely outward—arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel—4 rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God.”

The Tabernacle Court was relatively small – 150 feet long and 75 feet wide, but it was infinitely significant in symbolism, even in the materials used. The blue would be a reminder of heaven, the purple = royalty, the scarlet = His blood, the Gold = God’s deity, silver = redemption, bronze = judgment – every sacrifice a shadow of how the Lord Jesus would be judged in our stead.

The gold used in the construction of the Tabernacle totaled 293 pounds; the silver totaled 15,045 pounds; and the bronze was 5,310 pounds. In modern days (2021) this Tabernacle has been estimated to be worth over 62 million dollars.

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Matthew 28:1-20

The resurrection story never gets old – this is the capstone of our faith, the only “sign” we’ll ever need. Jesus’ resurrection from the dead proves to mankind beyond a shadow of a doubt, that He is incomparably the Way, the Truth, and the Life! Who else has gutted the grave, conquered the coffin, or defeated death? When the Jewish leaders asked Jesus for a sign, He simply pointed to His resurrection. If you think about it, it’s all that’s necessary, after all, shouldn’t we want to follow the One who gives life after death? We long for a Savior who not only helps us when life gets hard, we need a Savior who helps us when life ends. They say the crucifixion was the payment and the resurrection the receipt (Matthew 12:39-40; Luke 11:29; John 2:18-22).

Isn’t it a blessing how these lovely ladies were the first to witness the empty tomb? They were the first to find out that Jesus had risen from the dead – and they were the ones commissioned to inform the disciples. I’m so blessed by this, and I’ve seen this to be true in my walk as a Christian, how God blesses faithfulness. They were courageous in their willingness to anoint the body of Christ; so faithful, so loving, not even sure how the stone would be rolled away, but they took those steps of faith, and God took care of all the details. He sent angels to move the stone and tell the message, and send the ladies with the greatest news in the history of the world – HE IS RISEN!

Because He lives, we who believe in Christ will also live in heaven! Remember what Jesus said to Martha? 

John 11:25, (NKJV) “Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live.’”

On their way to the tell the disciples, Jesus appears to some of the ladies, and they worship Him (Matthew 28:9).

The soldiers relayed the account to the Chief Priests – the appearance of the angels, the disappearance of the body, and how they were paralyzed with fear (Matthew 28:4), but money talks, and they were bribed with hush money…along with the Governor himself.

O Lord, guard my heart from the horrible power of power (the Chief Priest’s problem) and the misery of money (the soldier’s downfall – the soldiers, in the same spirit, joined the ranks of Judas).

The chapter closes with the Great Commission. Jesus tells them (and us) that all authority in heaven and earth has been given to Him, and He just happens to be the One who is with us – always – even to the end of the age! So let’s get at it, let’s get the gospel out into all nations, beginning in our home, our Jerusalem, then Judea, on to Samaria, and even to the end of the earth (Acts 1:8). I know it sounds like a lofty task, but since Jesus is with us ALWAYS, the impossible becomes possible.

You may not be a formal missionary, but I believe we’re all missionaries in one way or another. To our immediate family, our extended family, our friends – at our schools, our workplace, all and everyone God brings into our path – let’s shine and share, let’s witness with lives and lips, let’s tell people all about the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit (the Trinity). Let’s teach others to obey. Let’s not just make converts but disciples. It’s only doable because it’s the Great CO-mmission (Jesus is with us) may it never be reduced to the great Omission!

When was the last time you shared Jesus with someone?

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Psalms 34:11-22

What a beautiful Psalm – every verse is of infinite value!

Peter quotes Psalms 34:12-16 in 1 Peter 3:10-12. If we want to love life, we must learn to tame our tongue (by the power of the Holy Spirit), depart from evil, seek good, and do good.

I’ve always loved Psalm 34:18:

Psalm 34:18 (NKJV) “The LORD is near to those who have a broken heart, and saves such as have a contrite spirit.”

Blessed are those who mourn over their sins, they shall be comforted with the closeness of God and salvation…by simply placing their faith in Jesus Christ.

I wish I could say it’ll be “one and done,” if you love the LORD, but that’s not the case on this side of time. We will go through tons of trials.

Psalm 34:19 (NKJV) “Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the LORD delivers him out of them all.

Did you catch that word? “MANY” are the afflictions of the righteous. If you long to be righteous, not just in position, but also practice you will experience “many” afflictions.

Did you catch that other word though? “ALL” – but the LORD delivers him out of them “all.” 

All means all, that’s all all means. God is sovereign, omnipotent, and perfectly loving…you can trust Him my friend – come what may, God will save the day.

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Proverbs 9:9-10

Proverbs 9:9 (NKJV) “Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be still wiser; teach a just man, and he will increase in learning.”

What a blessing when we’re able to give instruction to a wise man – he’ll grow in wisdom; or teach a just man – since he’s teachable, he learns even more.

There are many different scenarios where this can take place – such as this simple blot – it’s here for anyone who simply tunes-in, or logs on

You may recall that time in the Gospel of John 2 where Jesus didn’t waste His words or time teaching a certain bunch of people – because He knew, their hearts weren’t right (John 2:23-25). And we read later in Luke 23:9 that Jesus didn’t say a word to Herod.

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom. The fear of the LORD is a reverence, an awe, and a healthy fear that God will indeed discipline us if we sin against Him. It’s also a fear of grieving our loving, heavenly Father. May we love God so much that we don’t want to hurt Him.

If you have any questions or comments on today’s reading, or you’d like to share something the Lord showed you, feel free to leave a reply below. I’d love to hear from you as we grow forward in 2021.

Exodus 35:10-36:38

Exodus 35:10 (NKJV) “All who are gifted artisans among you shall come and make all that the LORD has commanded.”

We see the emphasis in this section on the artists God had gifted and now called to serve in the construction of the Tabernacle. A few He called by name, but for the rest it was a general invitation, “Calling all gifted artists, would you be willing to be part of this Tabernacle team?” 

There was also an invitation to donate the materials needed for the Tabernacle. There would be a window of time to give to the Lord in this way. There was a willing response.

Exodus 35:21 (NKJV) “Then everyone came whose heart was stirred, and everyone whose spirit was willing, and they brought the LORD’s offering for the work of the tabernacle of meeting, for all its service, and for the holy garments.”

It’s fascinating to consider the things necessary for a congregation to “build” – the instruction from God, the opportunity from God, the Spirit of God, the call of God, the men AND women of God, the gifts of God, the willingness necessary and the hearts that had to be “in it,” – the wisdom, understanding, and knowledge are all part and parcel of God’s plan in every generation, in every “body” to build. Today we aren’t building a literal Tabernacle for God to dwell in, but the Lord is using us to build up people, for God to dwell in.

Over the years I’ve noticed the responses of the sisters has been instrumental!

“They came, both men and women, as many as had a willing heart…” (Exodus 35:22)

“All the women who were gifted artisans…” (Exodus 35:25)

“All the women whose hearts stirred with wisdom…” (Exodus 35:26)

I’m also blessed with the way that Bezalel was not only gifted to work in all manner of workmanship, but God had put it in his heart the ability to teach others to do this work (Exodus 35:34). Many are gifted with special abilities, but not everyone has the patience and heart to teach others, to pass it on. 

How beautiful to see the response – “the people bring much more than enough,” (Exodus 36:5), so they had to be restrained from giving:

Exodus 36:6–7 (NKJV) “So Moses gave a commandment, and they caused it to be proclaimed throughout the camp, saying, ‘Let neither man nor woman do any more work for the offering of the sanctuary.’ And the people were restrained from bringing, 7 for the material they had was sufficient for all the work to be done—indeed too much.”

Where God guides God provides, and they began the work – in detail – meticulously.

The curtains, the coverings, the loops, the clasps, the  boards, the materials, the colors, the design, it all has significance – nothing in any of our lives is in any way random. Take some time to look deeper.

The veil (Exodus 36:35) would separate man from God and only the High Priest could enter behind the veil into the Most Holy Place once a year (on the Day of Atonement – Yom Kippur). Some say this veil was 4 inches thick (or more) but the Bible doesn’t provide those details. We DO know that it was 30 feet high and that when Jesus died on the cross the veil was torn in two from top to bottom (Matthew 27:51) for Jesus’ death has made a way for all believers to enter in…to His holy presence.

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Matthew 27:32-66

The cross beam Jesus would be carrying would weigh close to 75 pounds, and after all He’d been through, it’s understandable that He needed help. It wasn’t the Roman soldiers – it was God who chose Simon to help bear that cross, no doubt this would lead to his salvation, seeing His Savior suffer, and Simon’s sons would be saved as well (see Mark 15:21; Romans 16:13). I can’t think of any greater privilege in the history of the world – imagine that…chosen to help Jesus carry His cross!

Jesus was led up to Calvary where they laid Him down, and we read in verse 35, “Then they crucified Him.” Four words that we will never fully understand. It’s easy to just keep reading, but it might be good to push, pause, and ponder.

This all-powerful, beautiful, wonderful, innocent, magnificent God, was nailed to a cross, hanging like a piece of meat by the side of the road. The soldiers were playing games below – oblivious to the perfect love above them, they were only interested in taking home His clothing for themselves (but this had been prophesied in Psalm 22:18). 

The killed Him for who He was, the King of the Jews, the King of kings, my King and yours. They mocked Him, blasphemed Him, tempted Him to come down from the cross, “Save yourself,” they said, but if He saved Himself, He wouldn’t have saved us. He chose to stay on that cross because He saw the joy that was set before Him – the redeemed in glory forever – that was His joy…you are His joy (Hebrews 12:2).

Jesus quoted from Psalm 22:1 because it was the expression of His heart, but it would also point all people to this Psalm that predicted the Messiah’s death in detail, 700 years before crucifixion had ever been invented by the Phoencians. The Romans would later master this art of execution, that would induce the maximum amount of pain, over the maximum amount of time.

Psalm 22:16 (NKJV) “For dogs have surrounded Me; the congregation of the wicked has enclosed Me. They pierced My hands and My feet.”

Jesus was crucified at 9AM the land was dark from 12Noon to 3PM for it was then that our sins were placed upon Him and He was forsaken, separated from the Father, for God cannot look upon sin with pleasure.

The loud cry of Jesus was His cry of victory, “IT IS FINISHED!” (John 19:30). He then yielded up His spirit (Matthew 27:50) (see John 10:17-18) for He had finished the work for our salvation. Debt paid in full.

Thank You Jesus.

The veil of separation was torn in two by God Himself and now all believers in the Lord Jesus Christ have free access to the throne room, the very presence of God (Hebrews 4:16).

They laid Jesus’ body in a borrowed grave, but it would only be for the weekend. They set a guard to keep Him down, but nothing in all the universe would be able to stop Christ from conquering death.

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Psalm 34:1-10

The background to this Psalm can be found in 1 Samuel 21:10-15. David put himself in a dangerous situation before the king of the Philistines, and in order to get out of it, he pretended to be a mad-man.

How low he had sunk, but God rescued him, again, delivering him from death and this Psalm was written in response to God’s “salvation.” David wrote in:

Psalm 34:6 (NKJV) “This poor man cried out, and the LORD heard him, and saved him out of all his troubles.”

And isn’t this true for all of us? It will always be His way of merciful protection over our lives until that day when we’ve finished the race. In light of this, let’s magnify the Lord together (Psalm 34:3).  Let’s bless Him always, praise Him continually, let’s boast about Him, seek Him, look to Him, cry out to Him, let’s taste and see that the LORD is good. Let’s fear Him and trust Him and hold tightly to His promise:

Psalm 34:10b (NKJV) “…but those who seek the LORD shall not lack any good thing.”

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Proverbs 9:7-8

May God grant us the boldness to correct others if needed, but may He also grant us the wisdom to know when not to.

A scoffer will hate us for it.

A wise one will love us for it.

Charles Bridges, “Solomon gives us here the rule of Christian prudence….Why should we correct and rebuke when more harm than good will be the result? Avoid irritations. Wait for the favorable opportunity.”

May we also be wise by being open to correction. May we love and appreciate those who have that special place in our lives, placed there by God to point out our blind spots.

If you have any questions or comments on today’s reading, or you’d like to share something the Lord showed you, feel free to leave a reply below. I’d love to hear from you as we grow forward in 2021.

Exodus 34:1-35:9

Moses was called by God, once again, to meet with Him on the mountain, early in the morning. We read God’s invitation to Moses in:

Exodus 34:2 (NKJV) “So be ready in the morning, and come up in the morning to Mount Sinai, and present yourself to Me there on the top of the mountain.”

Although I realize this was a unique calling for Moses the mediator of the Law to go up the mountain, in one sense I believe it’s a call for all of us; to be ready and start the day, all alone with God; He wants to speak to us, and even write His Word on the tablets of our heart (2 Corinthians 3:3).

When Moses met with God, the LORD revealed Himself even more. Moses had asked the LORD to show him His way, His face, His glory, something impossible on this side of time (Exodus 33:20), but God would show him His afterglow.

Did you notice what God said about Himself? His words present the Biblical balance between God’s graciousness and God’s holiness. He is gracious, long-suffering abounding in goodness and truth; He’s merciful and always ready to forgive – but He does not clear the guilty, His Holiness is obligated to repay iniquity, to generation after generation. God is patient and willing to forgive any and all who place their faith in Christ, but if a person refuses to accept His gracious gift provided in His Son, they will be found guilty before God. (Romans 11:22)

Our holy, holy, holy God cannot wink at sin; it will either be judged at Calvary by Christ on our behalf, or we will bear the weight of an infinite offense against God…forever and ever. The choice is ours.

Moses did not want to go anywhere without God (he was wise in that) and the Lord graciously obliged, just as He does with us (Psalm 139:7-10). God promised to go with them and lead them into the Promised-Land, but they were to beware not to be conformed to the ways of this world (Romans 12:2). Don’t worship at their altars, don’t walk in their ways, and whatever you do, don’t wed non-believers, you’ll be led astray and destroy your children in the process.

God went on to give Moses laws that resembled His earlier statutes, and He personally “penned” the Ten Commandments on the two tablets of stone (Exodus 34:1, 28). 

Imagine how awesome this time with God must have been, especially considering the fact that Moses fasted supernaturally (no food or water, nothing feeding the flesh) for 40 days! Wow! This intimate time with God had a profound effect on Moses, so much so that whenever he left God’s presence, he would be glowing, and the people would see it. Isn’t this how it should be with us as well? May we spend time with God and bask in His radiance to the point that it’s noticeable to others. I believe that quantity quality time with God – all alone – will bring us to the point of not just knowing, but glowing as lights in this dark, dark world (Philippians 2:15). Paul the Apostle wrote about this in great detail in 2 Corinthians 3:7-18. Paul shared that if the Old Covenant produced such results, how much more the New Covenant, which brings us the Personal power of the Holy Spirit? Paul shared how the glow of the Old Covenant faded away, but the glow of the New Covenant doesn’t, it should only grow stronger, the more we gaze into the face of Jesus, the more and more we should become like Him, evident to all – for in Christ, the veil is taken away, there’s no veil between us and God and there should be no veil between us and others.

2 Corinthians 3:18 (NKJV) “But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord.”

How wonderful to read that the God of the Second Chance gave them another opportunity as a congregation to not only live for Him but give to Him. Whoever is of a willing heart, let that person bring their offering to the Lord (Exodus 35:5). May we give financially from a willing heart, may we even be willing to give to God all of our heart (Proverbs 23:26).

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Matthew 27:15-31

When Jesus stood before Pilate, it was clear to the Roman Governor that He was completely innocent. Pilate was acutely aware that the religious leaders had handed Jesus over because of envy. 

What a horrible sin envy is! The religious leaders of the day simply hated the way Jesus was wise and wonderful, loving and beautiful, so gracious and gifted; they hated how the people were blessed and impressed and began to follow Jesus more than them. They chose to hate rather than celebrate. May we never envy, may we genuinely learn to rejoice when others are blessed by God and used by God.

“Pilate knows the high priest and the Sanhedrin are not concerned about threats to Roman rule; rather, they are envious of Jesus’ popularity and feel threatened by his authoritative ministry.” – ESV Study Bible

Pilate tries to wiggle his way out of making the decision, by  offering the people a choice between Barabbas (a notorious criminal and murderer according to Mark 15:7) or Jesus. Surely they would choose Jesus! They didn’t!

Jesus did nothing wrong, Pilate knew it, His wife knew it, the leaders knew it, everyone did, but the crowd was swayed by those in positions of power. Pilate caved, and Jesus was sentenced to be crucified. He could wash his hands, but he could not wash his heart, and he could not wash away history. He would forever be known as the man in the chronicles of humanity who had that responsibility, and sentenced our Savior to die.

The Lord was stripped and draped with a scarlet robe; the crown of thorns pressed into His head would be symbolic of the way He claimed our curse (Genesis 3:18).

They mockingly bowed before Him; spat on Him, struck Him, and led Him away to be crucified. He had already been beaten and scourged with the cat of 9-tails (leather strands with bones and rocks that would tear away the flesh). Many men did not even survive the scourging, but Jesus was a man’s man. All this after sweating drops of blood in the Garden of Gethsemane, a medical condition known as hematidrosis, which would make the skin tender and frail. I can’t imagine the pain.

(If you would like a detailed look at what Jesus experienced, here’s a link to an article that has moved my heart over the years – Medical Aspects of the Crucifixion.)

I can’t help but think of:

Isaiah 53:4-7 (NKJV) “Surely He has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows; yet we esteemed Him stricken, smitten by God, and afflicted. But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement for our peace was upon Him, and by His stripes we are healed. All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned, every one, to his own way; and the LORD has laid on Him the iniquity of us all. He was oppressed and He was afflicted, yet He opened not His mouth; He was led as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before its shearers is silent, so He opened not His mouth.”

It would be the clearest and greatest demonstration of love in all eternity (Romans 5:8).

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Psalm 33:12-22

What an amazing Psalm written to impact us nationally:

Psalm 33:12 (NKJV) “Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD, the people He has chosen as His own inheritance.”

What an amazing Psalm written to teach us individually:

Psalm 33:15 (NKJV) “He fashions their hearts individually; He considers all their works.”

We ponder the fact that salvation and deliverance comes both nationally and individually – only – from God.

It’s not armies, or horses, or tanks, or jets, or missiles; it’s not men or the things that men might manufacture; it’s not pastor, politicians, or physicians we look to (although God can use any and all of those aforementioned) ultimately we look only to God.

Psalm 33:20 (NKJV) “Our soul waits for the LORD; He is our help and our shield.”

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Proverbs 9:1-6

The first 9 chapters of Proverbs are largely an invitation from Wisdom to come and get it, sign-up to seek and study, look and long to be a man or woman of wisdom.

Here we have Wisdom personified as a woman, redeeming the feminine, preparing a meal, calling the simple (that’s me without God) to come and take it all in, enroll in this class, learn this book, be blessed with the skill of living life successfully in the eyes of God, learn how to connect the dots, and cultivate wisdom which is the application of Word of God.

She has hewn out her seven pillars: “The primary idea is that wisdom’s house is large, well appointed, and unshakable.” – David Guzik

That’s the type of house we should all want…so let’s turn:

Proverbs 9:4–6 (NKJV) “Whoever is simple, let him turn in here! As for him who lacks understanding, she says to him, 5 “Come, eat of my bread and drink of the wine I have mixed. 6 Forsake foolishness and live, and go in the way of understanding.’”

If you have any questions or comments on today’s reading, or you’d like to share something the Lord showed you, feel free to leave a reply below. I’d love to hear from you as we grow forward in 2021.

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Exodus 32:1-33:23

Moses had left Aaron and Hur to serve and tend to the people, while he met with the LORD on the mountain (Exodus 24:13-14).  None of them were aware it would take 40 days and 40 nights to receive the Law (Exodus 24:18). 

The children of Israel couldn’t wait that long, so they asked Aaron to take over, “…for as for this Moses, the man who brought us up out of the land of Egypt, we do not know what has become of him.” (Exodus 32:1)

In one sense, it’s understandable that the people might wonder, why so long? But we need to know that God’s delays are not God’s denials, we must wait on the LORD, His timing is best.

Aaron was not a good leader throughout this crisis. Our children ask, “How long?” We as parents, remind them, “Be patient, it’s all in God’s timing.” We might even correct them, “You shouldn’t whine or complain.” The young and immature are almost always impatient, but leaders shouldn’t be. When Aaron was called to lead, he failed miserably; he just went with the flow and followed the crowd rather than following the LORD.

Aaron asked for their gold, he fashioned it into a calf (the influence of Egypt) and told the people that this was the LORD. It’s not enough to get the name right, we must yield to the way God has revealed Himself to us, and a golden calf is not our God. It’s no wonder the people simply did what the world back then would do, they ate, drank, and “played” (it wasn’t football or Scrabble, if you know what I mean).

At this point, God tests and trains Moses; it’s as if God is ready to disown the people: 

Exodus 32:7 (NKJV) “And the LORD said to Moses, ‘Go, get down! For your people whom you brought out of the land of Egypt have corrupted themselves.’”

Did you notice how God told Moses they were his people, whom he had brought out of Egypt? Justice and the letter of the law would have resulted in God wiping the people out; God could then start over with Moses (Exodus 32:10). Would he be interested in that?

No. Moses passionately interceded for the people, primarily because he was concerned with God’s reputation, with God’s glory. He began to reason with God (this is a good way to pray God’s will, be reasonable). “Lord, they’re Your people, whom You brought out of Egypt; what will the Egyptians say about You? What will they think? You couldn’t finish the job? And LORD, what about Your promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Israel?” Moses wasn’t interested in his own name, he was consumed with God’s name and how the world would perceive such judgment…so the LORD relented from judging the people.

We’ve seen it with Abraham who prayed for Lot, and we see it here with Moses praying for the people – it is mysterious, but may we know beyond a shadow of a doubt, that prayer DOES make a difference…so keep praying (contrast this with Ezekiel 22:30-31).

Moses was not just disappointed with Aaron, he was angry (and rightly so)! – Psalm 7:11

God’s discipline is creative. I love the way Moses ground the golden calf to powder and made the people drink it (a lesson in sowing and reaping).

Leaders have a heavy responsibility, Aaron failed miserably!

Exodus 32:21 (NKJV) “And Moses said to Aaron, “What did this people do to you that you have brought so great a sin upon them?”

If we don’t lead as leaders, the influences of the world, the flesh, and the demonic realm will have their way with the people. Crowd control can be challenging but we must “restrain” the people who are being pulled by their impatience and worldly influence, the latest trends of the world. It’s necessary to say “no” to our children frequently, to set limits, guidelines, and parameters (Exodus 32:25).

Aaron bowed down to the people, but Moses bowed down for the people. Moses had been touched by God so deeply, that he was willing for God to blot out his name from the Book of Life, in order that Israel would be saved (Exodus 32:32), but God doesn’t do deals like that. Paul the Apostle had the same heart (Romans 9:3). That type of love is rare and radical, isn’t it? I have a hunch that it came as a result of these men spending such quality time alone with the Lord, that they had developed a heart like His, willing to lay down their lives for the people. It’s been said, “A shepherd’s work can never be done without a shepherd’s heart.” (John 10:11)

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Matthew 26:69-27:14

Peter’s denial of the Lord sobers me up to the reality that such a lapse of faith can happen to anyone. Peter loved the Lord, Peter was the one who swung the sword when the Temple Guards came to arrest Jesus, and Peter would eventually be a great servant-leader, even among the Apostles. If it can happen to him, it can happen to any of us!

How?

Not to oversimplify things, but the Lord had warned Peter that Satan wanted to sift him as wheat (Luke 22:31), but Peter didn’t really listen, he was overconfident, claiming it could never happen to him.  When Jesus commanded him to watch and pray, he only slept.

He swung the wrong sword, followed at a distance, warmed himself by the enemy’s fire, and now when push comes to shove, Peter actually denies he knows the Lord, three times – and he did so emphatically, with an oath, cursing, and swearing.

Luke tells us that at this moment in time Jesus looked at Peter (Luke 22:61). Peter’s memory was jogged, he was deeply convicted, and he went out and wept bitterly. But God wasn’t done with Peter.

On the other side of the stands, the enemy was having a field day with Judas, using a familiar mode of operation. First, Satan vigorously tempts us to sin, and then when we do, he overwhelms us with condemnation. That’s what happened to Judas, the blinders were lifted just enough for him to see the horror of his sin, he had betrayed an innocent man who was now about to die. Judas thought his way out was to give the money back, but the religious leaders told him, there’s no turning back, there’s no hope for you…and so, Judas did what 125 people do every day in the USA, he killed himself. This is the agenda of the adversary (John 10:10). Judas was strangled by Satan, gripped by guilt, and the devil will do that every time, if we allow him. He will tempt us to sin, and then when we fall, he kicks us when we’re down. Please know that guilt and condemnation come from the enemy and will drive a person away from God, but godly conviction comes from the Lord and will draw us back to Him (this would be Peter’s story eventually and gloriously).

Let’s learn and yearn never to deny the Lord, it’s very dangerous (2 Timothy 2:12), but if we ever do, may we return to Him – Jesus is always ready and willing to restore.

The religious leaders had come to a final, formal decision – Jesus was to be put to death. Since the Jews didn’t have the authority to administer the death sentence, they led Jesus away to Pontius Pilate. 

As Jesus is sent to Pontius Pilate, it’s not Jesus who’s on trial, it’s the Governor. Jesus shared only what He needed to, and He shined the whole time. 

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Psalm 33:1-11

The Psalmist encourages the people to sing praise to God. Music is beautiful and I believe its primary purpose is praise. It’s most important to sing to the Lord from the heart, but if we’re worship leaders, it’s good to cultivate those talents and gifts – to play skillfully (Psalm 33:3) (practice).

This Psalm is evangelistic in nature, inviting all the earth, and all the inhabitants of the world to stand in awe of Him (Psalms 33:8).

Psalm 33:9 points back to Genesis 1:3, “Then God said…”

We read that phrase repeatedly in the creation account. Doesn’t it blow your mind to realize that God simply spoke the universe into existence?

Psalm 33:8–9 (NKJV) “Let all the earth fear the LORD; let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of Him. 9 For He spoke, and it was done; He commanded, and it stood fast.”

It’s critical and encouraging to see that the counsel and plans of the nations will come to nothing (Psalm 33:10), but the counsel and plans of the Lord will stand forever…as beautifully expressed in:

Psalm 33:11b (NKJV) “…the plans of His heart to all generations.”

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Proverbs 8:33-36

Proverbs 8:33-36 (NKJV) Hear instruction and be wise, and do not disdain it. ³⁴ Blessed is the man who listens to me, watching DAILY at my gates, waiting at the posts of my doors. ³⁵ For whoever finds me finds life and obtains favor from the Lord; ³⁶ But he who sins against me wrongs his own soul; all those who hate me love death.” 

It’s been said that, “Daily practices over time become habits that are practically unbreakable—so be careful what you weave.” If we weave the wisdom of God’s Word – we will be blessed.

I call it daily bread – and I believe Jesus did too. (Matthew 6:11; Luke 11:3)

David Guzik, “Blessed is the man who listens to me: This blessing comes to those who not only listen to wisdom, but are willing to inconvenience themselves to seek her. They are willing to watch daily at her gates and wait at the posts of her doors. Their pursuit of wisdom is intentional, not accidental.”

Be blessed by watching and waiting. If we find wisdom, we find life and favor from the LORD. If we sin, we wrong our own soul – and if we hate wisdom, we love death. Heavy, wouldn’t you say?

If you have any questions or comments on today’s reading, or you’d like to share something the Lord showed you, feel free to leave a reply below. I’d love to hear from you as we grow forward in 2021.

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Exodus 30:11-31:18

The Bible Knowledge Commentary offers some details on the ransom: “Whenever a census was taken each Israelite 20 years old or more was to pay a tax to help maintain the tabernacle and services. This tax was considered a ransom (Exodus 30:12) because its payment guaranteed protection from plagues. This helped motivate each male to pay. It was also considered an atonement, a covering for sins. When counted, each adult male, whether rich or poor, was to pay a half shekel, one-fifth of an ounce. A “gerah” was a Babylonian weight. The shekel was silver. This practice became the basis of the later temple tax (Nehemiah 10:32, though the amount then was reduced to one-third of a shekel) that became an annual tax in the time of Christ (Matthew 17:24).”

The next item to be made for the Tabernacle was the Bronze Laver. It was here where water was kept so the priests could wash their hands and feet prior to entering into the Tabernacle service. 

If the priests neglected to wash in the Bronze Laver, they were to be put to death (you may have noticed several capital offenses mentioned in this section, punishable by death Exodus 30:33, 38; 31:14). Indeed, God is holy.

Moses was commanded to make a sanctified anointing oil as well as a sanctified incense. The oil was symbolic of the Holy Spirit, the incense was symbolic of prayer. These would be beautiful symbols, but if we don’t guard our hearts we might look to these things, even something like holy water – as being good enough in-and-of itself. What if you burnt incense but didn’t pray? What if you were anointed with holy oil, but refused to be holy? What if you dipped your hands in holy water, but chose not to repent and be cleansed of your sin? All these things in the Tabernacle are a means to an end and point beyond itself – may we remember that, and always hold to the substance, not merely the shadow. 

Colossians 2:17 (NKJV) “…which are a shadow of things to come, but the substance is of Christ.” 

(see also Hebrews 8:5; 10:1)

I believe everyone of us has talents we’re born with, and gifts we’re born-again with. The key is to discover those gifts, develop, and deploy them for the Kingdom of God. Here we have Bezalel named by God to lead the way with the workmanship of the Tabernacle. God also named Aholiab to assist, as well other gifted artisans who had the Spirit upon them, and wisdom within them – even in their hearts! God is an amazing artist, beautiful and creative; He fashioned us all to function in a special place in the Body of Christ. Have you discovered your place yet? 

1 Peter 4:10 (NKJV) “As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.”

The Jews were to keep the Sabbath and rest on the 7th day (what a beautiful gift). It’s too bad that over the years they made so many rules for the Sabbath, that it became a burden rather than a blessing.

The Old Covenant had the law written with the “finger” of God on tablets of stone. The New Covenant would also be written by God, but on our hearts instead. Paul wrote to the Corinthians:

2 Corinthians 3:3 (NKJV) “…clearly you are an epistle of Christ, ministered by us, written not with ink but by the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of flesh, that is, of the heart.”

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Matthew 26:47-68

Jesus was not only betrayed by a friend, but with a kiss…which made it hurt so much more. It had been prophesied in the Old Testament.

Psalm 41:9 (NKJV) “Even my own familiar friend in whom I trusted, who ate my bread, has lifted up his heel against me.”

Psalm 55:12–14 (NKJV) “For it is not an enemy who reproaches me; then I could bear it. Nor is it one who hates me who has exalted himself against me; then I could hide from him. 13 But it was you, a man my equal, my companion and my acquaintance. 14 We took sweet counsel together, and walked to the house of God in the throng.”

Although He was betrayed by His friend (with a kiss), He simply laid down His life. The Apostles forsook Him (Matthew 26:56), the Temple Guards arrested Him, the religious leaders illegally tried Him, condemned Him, spat in His face, struck Him, mocked Him, and sentenced Him to death, even the death of the cross – but somehow it didn’t move Him; Jesus was strengthened through it all.

It was the greatest expression of love in all of eternity – love demonstrated and directed by God…for you and me (Romans 5:8).

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Psalm 32:1-11

This Psalm was no doubt written after David confessed his sin of adultery with Bathsheba, and the murder of Uriah. Nathan confronted him (2 Samuel 12) and finally, in honest humility David came clean. He had languished in his misery, “separated” from God, for close to a year.

In my many days as a pastor I’ve seen people deny it till they’re blue in the face, even when they’re full-on guilty and the evidence is right there in front of them. If we refuse to confess our sin, it will eat away at our soul, and destroy us from within.

Proverbs 28:13 (NKJV) ”He who covers his sins will not prosper, but whoever confesses and forsakes them will have mercy.”

Psalm 32:8-9 reminds me that God wants to draw me close and guide me through the instruction of His Word. I shouldn’t be like a stubborn mule, who refuses God’s voice and therefore requires circumstantial discipline to draw me near to hear the Lord. 

Will I learn the easy way, or the hard way? And then there are those who never learn.

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Proverbs 8:27-32

Proverbs 8:27-31 (NKJV) “When He prepared the heavens, I was there, when He drew a circle on the face of the deep, ²⁸ When He established the clouds above, when He strengthened the fountains of the deep, ²⁹ When He assigned to the sea its limit, so that the waters would not transgress His command, when He marked out the foundations of the earth, ³⁰ Then I was beside Him as a master craftsman; and I was daily His delight, rejoicing always before Him, ³¹ Rejoicing in His inhabited world, and my delight was with the sons of men.“

Proverbs 8 emphasizes the fact that God utilized wisdom in His creation. It also personifies wisdom to such an extent, that some have said this is Jesus. But we need to be careful in pouring too much theology into such imagery.

Jesus was the agent of creation according to John 1:3; but Jesus was not “brought forth” (Proverbs 8:24), He was not created. As a member of the Trinity (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) Jesus has always existed.

I believe God is showing us in Proverbs 8 what He did with wisdom, and wooing us with what we might do with this wisdom from above.

When God made the universe, wisdom was there as His plans, as His process, and even in one sense as His “Person.” As we consider the heavens of space and sky, the clouds, the waters, the limits, the earth made with mankind in mind – we rejoice with him.

Of course mankind being the pinnacle of His creation…His delight was with the sons of men.

Proverbs 8:32 (NKJV) “Now therefore, listen to me, my children, for blessed are those who keep my ways.“

The simple application is to live our lives in obedience to our Maker and Maintainer. To take heed to the Proverbs and walk in this wisdom from above. May I listen and be blessed!

If you have any questions or comments on today’s reading, or you’d like to share something the Lord showed you, feel free to leave a reply below. I’d love to hear from you as we grow forward in 2021.

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Exodus 29:1-30:10

The only way any of us are able to serve in the ministry, is through the grace of God made possible, by the blood of Jesus Christ. Aaron and his sons, who would be High Priests in Israel, are no exception to that, and all these sacrifices we read of here on their behalf, were linked and looking forward to the blood of the Lamb, which cleansed and qualified them for ministry.

God is holy and therefore any call to the ministry is a call to holiness. Ministers are to be washed in the water of the Word (Exodus 29:4; Ephesians 5:26) and washed in the blood of God’s sacrifice (Exodus 29:10-14; Revelation 1:5-6).

The blood applied to the right ear, the right hand, and the right foot, spoke of the forgiveness necessary for the things we’ve listened to, for the things we’ve done, and for the places we’ve gone, that were not right in God’s sight (Exodus 29:20). Later, the Lord would anoint those same parts of the leper’s body with oil, in order to symbolize how what we hear, what we do, and every step we take must be anointed and empowered by the Holy Spirit (Leviticus 14).

When we study the book of Leviticus, God will cover more details on the various sacrifices and offerings that we read of here in Exodus…the sin offering, the wave offering, the heave offering, the grain offering, and the drink offering.

Living so far away from the times of the Tabernacle and Temple we might not be cognizant of the constant deaths that took place, when all these animals were slaughtered as shadows of Christ who would one day be slaughtered for us. Did you notice how Aaron and his sons put their hands on the head of the bull? (Exodus 29:10) This symbolized the transfer of sins to the animal which was then put to death for those sins, on their behalf (Romans 6:23). This is a picture of what Jesus has done for us, how He bore our sins (Isaiah 53:5, 10).

In Exodus 29:38 we read of the two lambs that were sacrificed each and every day, in the morning and at twilight…so much blood, as a constant reminder of God’s way for us to meet with Him. Notice what we read in:

Exodus 29:42 (NKJV) “This shall be a continual burnt offering throughout your generations at the door of the tabernacle of meeting before the LORD, where I will meet you to speak with you.”

I’m always amazed how God would be willing to meet with me, to speak to me, and even the WAY He made a way, by the slaughter of His Son. O what a Savior we have (we’ll never know how much it cost to see our sins upon that cross) He gave His life, His love, His Son, in order to dwell among us and be our God!

Exodus 29:45–46 (NKJV) “I will dwell among the children of Israel and will be their God. 46 And they shall know that I am the LORD their God, who brought them up out of the land of Egypt, that I may dwell among them. I am the LORD their God.”

This is where it’s all heading, for all God’s children. We read in:

Revelation 21:3 (NKJV) “And I heard a loud voice from heaven saying, ‘Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people. God Himself will be with them and be their God.’”

God next gave Moses the details for the Altar of Incense which would be symbolic of the perpetual prayers of the people before God’s throne.

How beautiful to think that our prayers rise as incense, as a sweet smelling aroma before the Lord (see Revelation 8:3).

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Matthew 26:14-46

The anointing of Jesus by Mary of Bethany was the last straw for Judas, for he was a thief; he used to steal from the money box, and he no doubt wanted some of that money (John 12:4-6). Judas therefore went out and agreed to betray Jesus for 30 pieces of silver. 

Jesus, however, didn’t give up on Judas, He reached out to him at the Passover meal, by saying, in essence, “I know you’re planning to betray Me, Judas, don’t do it, there will be the worst of all judgments if you do this” (Matthew 26:24). If only the world would heed the warnings of God – motivated by love.

Jesus goes on to institute communion. We as Christians have only two “institutions.” One is baptism, which we are to do once, when we’re old enough to understand what we’re doing. The other is communion, which we are to observe repeatedly and frequently. In doing so, we remember Christ, we remember His cross, we remember His body that was broken for us; what an amazing love and the life we have in Him!

After communion, Jesus informs His disciples of the prophecy in Zechariah 13:7, the sheep would be made to stumble, when the Shepherd is struck. He was informing them of this prophecy so they would regather later in Galilee, but Peter’s pride got the best of him and he had the audacity to say, “Jesus You’re wrong! These other guys might deny You, but I’ll never deny You!” So Jesus speaks to Him directly (I hear it like this) “Well Peter, I wasn’t going to say anything, but now that you bring it up, not only will you stumble and be scattered, but you will deny Me three times before the rooster is done crowing.”

What important lessons of warning for all of us. This Christian life is not a playground, it’s a battle-ground; it’s not a game to be taken lightly, it’s a war in which we fight on our knees. Jesus knew He had to pray, so He takes the guys and asks them to join Him. Jesus agonizes in prayer in this Garden (one of my favorite places to visit in Israel). Three times He asks His father to take this cup away. Why? The pain was the start of it, the sins He would bear were a part of it, but I believe the separation from His Father was the heart of it. This would be the first time in all eternity that the Father would be separated from His Son. Jesus made His request, but also yielded His will – a perfect pattern for us in prayer.

Unfortunately, the guys didn’t pray the way they should have – they slept instead, and sure enough, were stumbled by Satan. I sigh as I see those who sleep – not all, not most – but some, a handful. As Keith Green wrote, “The world is sleeping in the night, and the church just can’t fight, ‘cause it’s asleep in the light.” May God grant us that spiritual strength and attentiveness, to wake up and pray as we should.

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Psalm 31:19-24

All things work together for good, to those who love God (Psalm 31:19, 23).

David was one of those who loved the Lord, so God hid him in His pavilion, in the secret place, in the strong city, from the plots of men – even when he was surrounded.

May David’s story of triumphs through all the trials be an inspiration for all of us, as we go through the heartache we experience. God will keep you from the strife of life (Psalm 39:20).

Don’t be afraid. Don’t give up. God will show up. 

Psalm 31:24 (NKJV) “Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart, all you who hope in the LORD.”

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Proverbs 8:14-26

Proverbs 8:14-16 (NKJV) “Counsel is mine, and sound wisdom; I am understanding, I have strength. ¹⁵ By me kings reign, and rulers decree justice.¹⁶ By me princes rule, and nobles, all the judges of the earth.“

“If men in authority need wisdom, it is for justice, not advantage.”

 Kings need much more than family blood; and rulers need much more than rules; princes need much more than that education from Princeton university, it’s not the degree – God says…it’s Me.

You need My counsel, you need My wisdom, you need My understanding, you need My strength.

It even gets better:

Proverbs 8:17 (NKJV) “I love those who love me, and those who seek me diligently will find me.“

There are some fine lines between wisdom and the personification of wisdom, the Lord Himself.

It’s here and only here where you’ll experience love, but it won’t come if we live half-heartedly for Christ. If we seek Him casually; to experience the fullness of life we must seek Him diligently. And again, I know the context here is wisdom, but you can’t help but think of the beautiful promise, found in *Jeremiah 29:11-13

Not to put a burden too heavy to bear, but we can’t really say we’re seeking God diligently, if we’re not praying obediently.

Proverbs 8:19-21 (NKJV) “Riches and honor are with me, enduring riches and righteousness. ¹⁹ My fruit isbetter than gold, yes, than fine gold, and my revenue than choice silver. ²⁰ I traverse the way of righteousness, in the midst of the paths of justice, ²¹ That I may cause those who love me to inherit wealth, that I may fill their treasuries.“

Sometimes God blesses us financially here on earth – physically; but the true riches are spiritual riches, enduring riches.

“Are the benefits material or immaterial? Certainly both, but predominantly the latter.”

Matthew 6:19-20, “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal.”

There are many Christians who don’t have a whole lot financially on earth – but they are rich spiritually, because they live and give obediently.

There’s fruit (v. 19) in their lives…which is better than gold, even the best gold or silver.

Proverbs 8:22-26 (NKJV) “The Lord possessed me at the beginning of His way, before His works of old. ²³ I have been established from everlasting, from the beginning, before there was ever an earth. ²⁴ When there were no depths I was brought forth, when there were no fountains abounding with water. ²⁵ Before the mountains were settled, before the hills, I was brought forth; ²⁶ While as yet He had not made the earth or the fields, or the primal dust of the world.

Here we have the personification of wisdom; an abstraction made personal for the sake of poetic vividness. It makes excellent sense at the level of metaphor.

By wisdom God made THE world – therefore it’s by His wisdom we will make OUR world.

We can’t control everything, but the good life, the less-stressed life, the blessed life, doesn’t usually happen by accident, it requires wisdom.

We love it, and therefore learn it, in order to live it.

We make our decisions and then our decisions make us.

By this wisdom that was there before time.

If the LORD used wisdom in such a way, we should too. What can God do through us if only we would walk in wisdom every step of the way.

If you have any questions or comments on today’s reading, or you’d like to share something the Lord showed you, feel free to leave a reply below. I’d love to hear from you as we grow forward in 2021.