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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.

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Exodus 28:1-43

Not only was the LORD establishing the Civil Law of Israel, He was also about to establish the Ceremonial Law. He begins with the Priesthood. We don’t read of Aaron by any means earning this position. God, by His grace, chose him and his sons to serve as the family of High Priests of Israel. He does the same for us when it comes to ministry, He chooses whom He uses, by grace (1 Corinthians 15:10).

The High Priests of Israel would wear holy garments, “…for glory and for beauty” (Exodus 28:2, 40).

We read of the gifted artists who would  make these garments (Exodus 28:3). Something I’ve noticed about the Lord, is that nothing is random, every thread, every fabric, every color, every stone, and the placement of it all has significance. I’ve also learned that God is an Artist, seen in the beauty of His creation and colors and the way they catch the eye and heart with their intricate textures and blends intended to go deep. We even read that these artists are not only gifted, but in one sense, Spirit-filled:

Exodus 28:3 (NKJV) “So you shall speak to all who are gifted artisans, whom I have filled with the spirit of wisdom, that they may make Aaron’s garments, to consecrate him, that he may minister to Me as priest.”

Ultimately, Jesus is our High Priest (see Hebrews chapters 5-9) who entered the heavenly tabernacle with His own blood and made a way for His followers once and for all!

Hebrews 9:11–12 (NKJV) “But Christ came as High Priest of the good things to come, with the greater and more perfect tabernacle not made with hands, that is, not of this creation. 12 Not with the blood of goats and calves, but with His own blood He entered the Most Holy Place once for all, having obtained eternal redemption.”

I’ve always loved the way the High Priest bore the names of the children of Israel on his two shoulders (Exodus 28:12) and how he bore their names over his heart (Exodus 28:29). What a perfect picture of Jesus who carries us on His shoulders with such love – who has us in His heart!

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Matthew 25:31-26:13

At the end of the Tribulation Period, Jesus will return to judge the nations and separate the “sheep” from the “goats.” This judgment is for those who have survived the Tribulation Period. The righteous “sheep” on His right hand, will enter into the Millennial Kingdom. The cursed “goats” on His left hand, will be cast into the “everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels.” (Matthew 25:41)

You may have noticed that woven within this judgement, Jesus gives some very practical reasons for rewards and punishment. Most Bible teachers believe it has to do with the treatment of the Jews during the Great Tribulation Period – how the Jews were treated by them when they were hungry, thirsty, homeless, naked, sick, or in prison – Jesus said, “Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.” (v. 40) 

How I need to be so careful not to forget the practicality of my faith! James also mentions the fact that we prove our faith, by our works (James 2:18).

Once again, Jesus predicts His horrible death, but due to the preconceived ideas of the disciples, they can’t hear Him. Jesus informs them that all this was only two days away, that it would be during the Passover, but it’s as if they’re deaf. Meanwhile the religious leaders were having their conversations behind closed doors on their plans to kill Jesus, they didn’t want to do it during the feast, but it was all part of God’s plan and He would have His way, Jesus was about to be our Passover Lamb. 

Mary of Bethany is so beautiful, so different than the disciples; she seems to be the only one in their circle who was in tune with God, who understood Jesus’ words, and she therefore anoints Him with a flask of very costly oil (it was worth somewhere around $40,000 in today’s 2021 economy). It was an obedient and perfect sacrifice of the heart. When the worship is pure, the house will be filled with such fragrance. Of course, we know the enemy hates it when we do such things, and Judas was indignant – he was the one who led the charge against Mary (John 12:4) and the disciples followed his lead, but Jesus defended her. I’ve always loved what Mary of Bethany did for our Lord and aspire to learn from her example. As Warren Wiersbe said, “Other women came to anoint Him after His burial, but Mary did it when He could be encouraged by her love.”

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Psalm 31:9-18

David was in big trouble. His eyes were filled with grief, his strength was failing, his bones were wasting away.

To make matters worse, David had been forgotten, not just by his enemies, but also by his neighbors and acquaintances. Those who did remember him, only slandered him and took counsel together against him.

The enemy preyed.

But once again, David prayed:

Psalm 31:14–15 (NKJV) “But as for me, I trust in You, O LORD; I say, ‘You are my God.’ 15 My times are in Your hand; deliver me from the hand of my enemies, and from those who persecute me.”

The NLT says, “My future is in Your hands…”

If we KNOW He is our God (go ahead and say it to Him, “You are My God”) then it makes perfect sense that we would trust God with our future. Even if the moment or season we’re in is troubling – let’s keep the faith, let’s keep praying, knowing that one day God will make sense of it all.

God help us to learn from David. We can do this at any time, even in the most trying times. It’s good to pour out our hearts to Him, to share with Him ALL our burdens and griefs, to ask Him for help, the whole time knowing this truth, “Our times are in Your hands…” God…they really are.

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Proverbs 8:12-13

Proverbs 8:12-13 (NKJV) “I, wisdom, dwell with prudence, and find out knowledge and discretion. 13 The fear of the Lord is to HATE evil; pride and arrogance and the evil way and the perverse mouth I hate.”

If you consider this in context – it’s as if you have one voice, it’s the wisdom from above, and you have another voice, it’s the wisdom from below, and God says I hate that wisdom, the perverse mouth, I hate.

The Nazis and citizens of Germany would say “Heil Hitler.” They would say this in unison and do the hand signal…leading to the slaughter of 6 million Jews at that slogan.

The perverse mouth I hate.
They don’t call it adultery, they call it an affair.
They don’t call it sin, they call it a disease.
They don’t call it murder, or the taking of a life, or even abortion, they use their voice to call it “choice,” and in the US, since Roe vs. Wade over 62 million – and in the world since 1980 1.58 billion babes have been slaughtered.

All because of the unrighteous rhetoric that spews forth from the perversity of their mouths.

Proverbs 8:13 (NKJV) “The fear of the LORD is to hate evil; pride and arrogance and the evil way and the perverse mouth I hate.”

Do I really hate sin? Do I hate the way sin is die-cast rebellion against God? Do I see the damage it does to the people God loves? Who I love? God help us to hate – not sinners – but sin; God help us to hate evil, even the evil within our own hearts.

Billy Sunday aptly said, “One reason sin flourishes is that it is treated like a cream puff instead of a rattlesnake.”

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 26:1-27:21

It’s amazing to consider the details given to the construction of the Tabernacle, especially when you realize that every little part and portion of it is significant.

The Tabernacle which would be 45 feet by 15 feet, the 10 curtains of fine woven linen, the curtains of goats hair, the covering of rams skins dyed red, and the badger skins above that. Then there’s the boards of acacia wood, the silver sockets, and the bars of acacia wood.

The  veil that would separate the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place (Exodus 26:33) was symbolic of the barrier between us and God, for into the Holy Place only the High Priest could enter in, and only once a year on the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur). When Jesus died on the cross, however, this veil of separation was torn in two from top to bottom, meaning He made a way for us to go in…to His presence, this most Holy Place is available to believers anytime (Mark 15:38; Hebrews 4:16).

Exodus 27:1-2 describes the Bronze Altar where all the sacrifices would take place outside of the Tabernacle, but within the Tabernacle Courts (bronze is symbolic of judgment). The Court of the Tabernacle was 150 feet by 75 feet (see visuals below – zoom in to get a better look).

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The children of Israel were commanded to bring the pure oil of pressed olives for the light/lampstand to burn continually. This pressed olive oil would be symbolic of prayer, and isn’t it interesting that Jesus prayed frequently and passionately in the Garden of Gethsemane (Gethsemane means “Olive Press). This oil gave fuel for light, and would be symbolic of the anointing of the Holy Spirit.

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Matthew 25:1-30

Continuing in the context of His return, Jesus shares a couple of extremely insightful parables concerning the Kingdom of Heaven.

The first parable likens His return to a wedding feast. In those days the groom would gather His bride and bring her to His home for a 7-day celebration. In the parable, Jesus shows that five guests were ready for His coming, and five were not. The difference between them was the oil – and oil is symbolic of the Holy Spirit. There are many who profess to be Christians, they might even attend church, but they’re not truly born-again. These people do not have the Holy Spirit and when Jesus comes they will be left behind. Even though they think they have the right to enter-in, they don’t. In that day Jesus will speak the most horrible words they will ever hear, “Assuredly, I say to you, I do not know you.”

The second parable has to do with stewardship. We’ve all been given life, money, gifts, talents, things that God has blessed us with, things that we might use for His Kingdom and His glory. Some people are faithful and industrious; they realize that ultimately it all belongs to the Lord, and they work hard and responsibly with what He’s entrusted to them. Such people will be rewarded. Others, however, are wicked and lazy – they show by their life that they really don’t know the Lord and will be cast into outer darkness. What a heavy, heavy warning!

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Psalm 31:1-8

Another Psalm of David who found himself in frequent need of God’s deliverance. As we read through the Psalms and discover David’s constant need, it reminds me of:

Hebrews 4:16 (NKJV) “Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.”

Don’t you also find yourself in times of constant need? Let’s pray like David, even sing for “salvation.”

Psalm 31:2 (NKJV) “Bow down Your ear to me, deliver me speedily; be my rock of refuge, a fortress of defense to save me.”

He really is our rock and fortress, who leads us, and guides us, and pulls us out of the nets (traps) of the enemy.

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Proverbs 8:1-11

Another invitation from wisdom personified to learn and listen, to understand – that we might stand strong in God and for God, even in this world of wickedness.

Wisdom is infinitely more valuable than any amount of wealth we may amass!

Proverbs 8:11 (NKJV) “For wisdom is better than rubies, and all the things one may desire cannot be compared with her.”

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 23:14-25:40

Three times a year the Jewish men were called to gather together and appear before the LORD, at the Feast of Unleavened Bread, the Feast of Harvest, and the Feast of Ingathering (Tabernacles). It’s always good for the men to get together, centered on the Lord, for we are called to be servant-leaders.

The Feasts (Holy Days) of Israel were times to remember what God had done in their history and to pass HIS-story onto their children. They were also significant shadows of the coming Messiah. We’ll see all 7 Feasts in Leviticus 23.

The Father next speaks to Moses, informing Him that He was sending His Son as an “Angel” to go before them. This doesn’t mean Jesus isn’t God, for the title of angel simply signifies a messenger. In this case Jesus is the Messenger, Mediator, and hence the Angel of the LORD. The Father warned Moses and the people to be sure to listen and obey this Angel, for His name is in Him, and lest He not pardon their transgressions (brings to mind Deuteronomy 18:18-19; Matthew 17:5; Hebrews 1:1-2; 2:1).

They were on the verge of taking over a land inhabited by evil people, they were therefore not to bow down to, or serve those gods; they were to completely destroy and break down their pagan pillars.

“Little by little” the Lord would drive them out  we read in Exodus 23:30. It wouldn’t happen overnight, just as it doesn’t happen overnight for any of us. We don’t “arrive” overnight, in a very practical sense, it’s little by little, from faith to faith (Romans 1:17), more and more (Philippians 1:9) – it’s a lifetime of sanctification.

We’re beginning to see the formation of a priesthood as Aaron, Nadab, and Abihu come closer to God. The LORD would speak to Moses, who would relay the message to the people through the others. After hearing the Word of God, the people repeatedly said, “All the words which the LORD has said we will do.” (Exodus 24:3, 7) If only that was always our motto.

Can you picture the people sprinkled in blood? (Exodus 24:8) They are entering into a covenant with God – believing and receiving His blood, with a heart to obey. This is the equivalent of accepting Him as both Lord and Savior. Peter wrote about this in:

1 Peter 1:2 (NKJV) “…elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, in sanctification of the Spirit, for obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace to you and peace be multiplied.”

As Moses was called closer with his assistant Joshua, he left Aaron and Hur in charge (Exodus 24:14). He would be on the mountain for 40 days and 40 nights (Exodus 24:18).

God spoke to Moses who would speak to the people and provide them with an opportunity to give donations towards the building of the Tabernacle. These offerings were not to be coerced, they had to come from those who gave with a willing heart. How beautiful it is that the Lord even allows us to give to Him, may we always give joyfully and willingly!

The rest of this section deals with the construction of the Ark of the Covenant, the Table of Showbread, and the Lampstand. We will see that these designs are given to Moses according to their heavenly pattern, and each is significant to our relationship with God.

The Ark of the Covenant would be placed into the Most Holy Place in the Tabernacle where only the High Priest could enter in once a year with the blood of the sacrifice. He would make atonement for the people. He would sprinkle the blood on the lid, between the cherubim (on the Mercy Seat – symbolizing God’s throne) and He said something so beautiful in:

Exodus 25:22 (NKJV) “And there I will meet with you, and I will speak with you from above the mercy seat, from between the two cherubim which are on the ark of the Testimony, about everything which I will give you in commandment to the children of Israel.”

Jesus would one day go in to that Most Holy Place in Heaven, with His own blood, and make a way for us to meet with Him and LIVE with Him, forever (Hebrews 9:12).

The Table of Showbread would be in the Holy Place. Upon this table the 12 loaves of bread symbolizing the 12 Tribes of Israel would be placed perpetually, as God’s people are always in His presence.

The Lampstand (Menorah) is symbolic of Jesus as the Light of the World, and even of us, reflecting His light (John 8:12; 9:5; Matthew 5:16).

Moses was repeatedly commanded to make sure everything was done according to the pattern shown to Him – due to the significance of the Tabernacle (Exodus 25:9, 40).

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Matthew 24:29-51

The return of Jesus Christ is the most repeated doctrine in the Bible, so we can be 100% sure, He is coming. In one sense, Jesus’ Second Coming begins at the rapture of the church, but ultimately His return is completed after the Tribulation Period. He will return on the clouds, in all of His glory, and every eye will see Him (Revelation 1:7).

Matthew tells us to learn the lesson of the fig tree. When we see the new and tender leaves begin to form, we know that summer is near – so also when we see these signs increasing in frequency and intensity, we should realize Jesus’ coming is at hand. Many Bible teachers believe the fig tree to be representative of Israel, and that the generation that sees the fig tree bloom again (Israel became a nation again in 1948) will be the generation of Christ’s return. Jesus said, “Assuredly I say to you, this generation will by no means pass away till all these thing take place.” (Matthew 24:34).

And again, just in case you’re doubting His return, Jesus emphatically says:

Matthew 24:35 (NKJV)”Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away.”

Now, having spoken of His eminent return, it’s also important to realize that that no one knows the day or the hour (Matthew 24:36) so we are not to follow date-setters but we are to always be ready for the Rapture. 

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Psalm 30:1-12

This Psalm was sung by David at the dedication of his house. After all he’d been through, times when his life was hanging by a thread, when there was but a step between him and death, here he was blessed beyond measure, alive and able to dedicate his house to God.

Psalm 30:1–2 (NKJV) “I will extol You, O LORD, for You have lifted me up, and have not let my foes rejoice over me. 2 O LORD my God, I cried out to You, and You healed me.”

We really have reason to sing to God:

Psalm 30:5 (NKJV) “For His anger is but for a moment, His favor is for life; weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning.”

Anyone weeping? Anyone hurting? Anyone wondering about his or her life? Whoever and wherever you are, you can sing to the LORD. In Christ His favor is truly for life, and those tears of pain will be transformed into tears of joy – just continue to wait on the LORD.

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Proverbs 7:24-27

May I listen and pay attention, for sexual temptation is constant and everywhere.

It’s rooted in the heart, so guard your heart, don’t let it turn aside, to anyone other than your bride, don’t stray away in this way, and, whatever you do, don’t ever think it’ll never happen to you! It can happen to any of us!

Proverbs 7:26 (NKJV) “For she has cast down many wounded, and all who were slain by her were strong men.”

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 21:22-23:13

As we read through the details of legislation for the land, it’s important to keep in mind that these are laws for the nation of Israel – in that day – as a theocracy. Although there is much wisdom in these principles, and many of our laws here in the United States of America are rooted in this Judeo-Christian framework, we are not to see them as binding to all other nations today.

This is Israel’s Civil Law.

Statutes concerning physical injury (Exodus 21:18-27)

Statutes concerning culpable neglect (Exodus 21:18-36)

Statutes concerning theft (Exodus 22:1-4)

Statutes concerning property damage (Exodus 22:5-6)

Statutes concerning safe deposits (Exodus 22:7-13)

Statutes concerning borrowing (Exodus 22:14-15)

Statutes concerning sexual seduction (Exodus 22:16-17)

Statutes concerning idolatrous customs (Exodus 22:18-20)

Statutes concerning the care of the needy (Exodus 22:21-27)

Statutes concerning reverence (Exodus 22:28-31)

Statutes concerning legal justice (Exodus 23:1-9)

Statutes concerning the Sabbaths (Exodus 23:10-13)

In Exodus 21:22-23 we see the acknowledgment, identity, and value of the child within the womb, whom the Lord sees as a life. If a fight takes place and a man causes the death of an unborn child, that man, under the letter of the law, should be put to death – “…but if any harm follows, then you shall give life for life…” God acknowledges the life of the child within the womb. May we also acknowledge every child’s right to life, at the moment of conception; may we hold tightly to the sanctity of life.

In these laws, we are beginning to see that God is just and holy. May that be embedded deep within our hearts in order to cultivate a healthy fear of God…but isn’t it noteworthy to see the way the LORD also reveals Himself as a gracious God? (Exodus 22:27). How important it is that we have this balanced and Biblical understanding of who God is.

Exodus 23:2 has always jumped out at me:

Exodus 23:2 (NKJV) “You shall not follow a crowd to do evil…”

As Christians we don’t just go with the flow. May we know the LORD and His Word well enough to identify when the trends and mores of the majority are actually evil (1 John 5:19).

Exodus 23:4-5 is a practical way of showing love to our enemies. We may not be “feeling” it, but we are called to love them in practical and helpful ways…usually in time our heart will follow.

I like the way Exodus 23:13 is translated in the NIV:

Exodus 23:13 (NIV) “Be careful to do everything I have said to you…”

Amen! It’s as simple as that!

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Matthew 24:1-28

Matthew 24 is often referred to as the Olivet Discourse, for it is here at the Mount of Olives, overlooking the city of Jerusalem and the Temple, that Jesus spoke these words of prophecy. If you cross reference Mark 13 and Luke 21 you get the full picture.

The disciples pointed out the beauty of the Temple and the size of the stones. The temple itself stood 90 feet high – there was gold everywhere. Josephus, a Jewish historian said the temple was so magnificent that it was visible from 30-miles away. Some of the stones weighed 180 tons (modern day cranes can lift only 5 tons)! It seemed indestructible…but Jesus spoke an absolutely amazing prophecy – that the day would come when not one stone would be left upon another (in reference to the Temple).

When they reached the Mount of Olives, Mark tells us that Peter, James, John and Andrew asked Jesus privately this 3-fold question we have in Matthew:

(1) When will the Temple be destroyed?

(2) What will be the signs of Your coming?

(3) What are the signs of the end of the age?

As we read through the prophecies of Matthew, we must make the distinction between 1st century fulfillment (when the disciples were persecuted, and the Temple destroyed) the Rapture of the Church (that’s the one that will catch us by surprise if we’re not watching and working) and the Tribulation Period, which ushers in the end of the age.

False Messiah’s, wars, racial tension, famines, pestilences, earthquakes have all increased in frequency and intensity. Do you sense the birth pangs? ( Romans 8:22)

In the 20th century alone, over 1,100 people of international notoriety have publicly proclaimed to be the Christ, and in that one century there were more casualties of war than all others combined! Today, even with all our technology and ability to communicate globally, well over 10% of the world is malnourished, millions are starving…in other words, the signs are here. And although there have been pestilences in the past, I can’t help but mention Covid-19 which continues to infect the world today, and as I type over 391 million have been infected with 5.73 million deaths.

It’s seemingly not just the signs of the times, it’s the times of the signs. The stage is being set for globalism and a 1-world-ruler (Antichrist).

The Abomination of Desolation (v. 15) is when the Antichrist goes into the temple, claiming to be God and demands worship (see Daniel 9:27 and 2 Thessalonians 2:4). This will take place half-way through the 7-year Tribulation period (the last 3-1/2 years is often referred to as the Great Tribulation). We believe that the Antichrist will come onto the scene peacefully, the world will embrace him, he will bring peace in the Middle East allowing the Jews to rebuild their temple – but then his true colors will show, and he will persecute the Jews (verses 15-22) and the world will see judgment like never before (Revelation chapters 6-19).

There are different views on Matthew 24:28, the Bible Knowledge Commentary offers these words, “Wherever there is a carcass (physical corruption), vultures will go there to eat it. Similarly, where there is spiritual corruption, judgment will follow. The world will have become the domain of Satan’s man, the Antichrist, the lawless one (2 Thessalonians 2:8), and many people will have been corrupted by false prophets (Matt. 24:24). But the Son of Man will come quickly in judgment (v. 27).”

Warren Wiersbe sees it in a more practical way, “The eagles flying around the carcass picture the awful carnage that will result from this great battle (Revelation 19:17–19).”

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Psalm 29:1-11

We are to give God the glory for He alone is worthy! We are to worship the LORD in the “beauty of His holiness” (I love that phrase!)

The Psalmist goes on to emphasize the awesome voice of the LORD, as thunder splitting the cedar trees, but also soft enough to cause the deer to give birth (reminds me that not one sparrow falls to the ground apart from our Father’s will – Matthew 10:29). Everything is under God’s rule as simply spoken from His lips.

During the flood, God sat on the throne – in complete control.

And during the storms of our lives – He sits on the throne, in complete control. May this truth bless our hearts with the power and peace we need for the path ahead of us.

Psalm 29:11 (NKJV) “The LORD will give strength to His people; the LORD will bless His people with peace.”

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Proverbs 7:6-23

Proverbs 7:6-7 (NKJV) For at the window of my house I looked through my lattice, ⁷ And saw among the simple, I perceived among the youths, a young man devoid of understanding,

He witnessed it from his window with his own eyes, a youth, a young man, a simple young man.

The simple, in the Proverbs, refers to an open-minded person, open to anything; open to the voice and values of the current culture, they don’t know the Bible well enough to have developed a grid of theology from which they can test everything, they only have a worldly mentality, it’s a simplicity where their minds are so open that their brains fall out!

Solomon says, I saw it with my own eyes, a young man devoid of understanding.

Proverbs 7:8-9 (NKJV) Passing along the street near her corner; and he took the path to her house ⁹ In the twilight, in the evening, in the black and dark night.

He shouldn’t have been anywhere near there; he was in the wrong place, at the wrong time – it was twilight – which quickly turned into a black and dark night.

Proverbs 7:10-11 (NKJV) And there a woman met him, with the attire of a harlot, and a crafty heart. ¹¹ Shewas loud and rebellious, her feet would not stay at home.

For any guy this is big-time bait; she’s dressed seductively, not just attractively.

It’s okay to look nice and neat, and attractive for your husband, but no, she’s dressed seductively. Nowadays it would be low top, showing lots of skin, tight clothes, short skirt, high heels – and it’s not just the clothes on the outside, it’s the heart on the inside – Solomon attributes to her a crafty heart. It has nothing to do with Pinterest, it has to do with, “I’m interested in making this man fall.” The adulterous lady who sees it as challenge and quite an accomplishment.

She’s out there, she’s out to get what she wants…she’s not a homebody.

Proverbs 7:12-17 (NKJV) At times she was outside, at times in the open square, lurking at every corner. ¹³ So she caught him and kissed him; with an impudent face she said to him: ¹⁴ “I have peace offerings with me; today I have paid my vows. ¹⁵ So I came out to meet you, diligently to seek your face, and I have found you. ¹⁶ I have spread my bed with tapestry, colored coverings of Egyptian linen. ¹⁷ I have perfumed my bed with myrrh, aloes, and cinnamon.

You’re in the wrong place, spiritually, and then geographically – the wrong place at the wrong time – it’s twilight, turning to a dark night (that city, that party, that vicinity, that website, that chat room, that person you don’t even know, and you’re falling in love through social media).

So it’s no surprise, she just caught him and kissed him – what’s a guy to do then?

She’s a believer because she has peace offerings, she’s paid her vows to God, not to men, not to her husband, but to God, that’s all that matters right.

And you’re the one.

She says, “I’ve been waiting for you, I came out to meet you, to seek you, and I’ve found you. Let me tell you a little bit about my bed, feels so good, it smells so good, tapestry, colored coverings, Egyptian linens – the perfume – the myrrh, aloes, and cinnamon. It feels good, it smells good, it’s all good.”

And it’s crazy how affairs can happen, people you would have never thought, even they themselves thought it could never happen to me, leave the Lord, leave their families, never to return.

Single people with a calling on their lives – fall – and fall hard – only God knows if they’ll ever fully recover – it depends on the degree of their repentance. 

God can forgive anyone of anything but it doesn’t necessarily mean that everything goes back to what it was – it doesn’t usually work that way.

David’s life, David’s family changed, even though God forgave him. 

Psalm 99:8 (NLT) “O Lord our God, you answered them. You were a forgiving God to them, but you punished them when they went wrong.”

In other words, there are consequences of forgiven sin, we do reap what we so (Galatians 6:7).

They say prevention is the best medicine. May it never happen to us. Stay pure, by staying powerful, don’t allow the immoral man or woman to convince you it’s love.

Proverbs 7:18 (NKJV) Come, let us take our fill of LOVE until morning; let us delight ourselves with LOVE.

It doesn’t matter how much he might make your heart pitter-patter, if that’s what he’s asking for, if that’s what he’s open to, if he wants that from you then he does not love you.

It’s lust, it’s flesh, it’s selfish, it’s sin, it’s not love.

And I don’t care how careful you, how smart you are, I promise, you’re gonna get caught, sooner or later. Even though the enemy will tell you, just this once – or we’ll do this and no one will ever have to know…eventually your sin will find you out (Numbers 32:23).

She convinces this naïve young man.

Proverbs 7:19-21 (NKJV) For my husband is not at home; he has gone on a long journey; ²⁰ He has taken a bag of money with him, and will come home on the appointed day.” ²¹ With her enticing speech she caused him to yield, with her flattering lips she seduced him. ²² Immediately he went after her, as an ox goes to the slaughter, or as a fool to the correction of the stocks, ²³ Till an arrow struck his liver. As a bird hastens to the snare, He did not know it would cost his life.

I recently read a story of a man who was working out in the field with his wife, and he had to leave her and take care of some business, but the plans got changed, so he returned to the field, only to find his wife lying naked in the field with his cousin, so he took a machete and hacked him to death – this was in the Philippines.

I’m not saying it’s right…I’m just saying it happens.

Can you visualize an ox moseying on along to the slaughter house? Has no idea his neck is about to be slit.

A fool – excited about the crime – but on his way to doing time in prison.

The bird is hungry and in a hurry, doesn’t know the next stage is a cage.

What a fool, he did not know, it would cost his life.  Sometimes it’s literally, physically, other times circumstantially, life is now less than what it was supposed to be in the eyes of Almighty.

And the warnings continue – how many men (and women) are ruined by sexual sin!

The simple, the youth, men devoid of understanding. He got too close, she had a crafty heart; her paid peace offerings and vows made it seem like she was a believer…she even called it “love” (Proverbs 7:18). She guaranteed, no one will find out, her husband was away…and this fool was completely swept away…he did not know it would cost his life.

Over the years I’ve seen not only the guilty die, but I’ve seen it cost the lives of innocent victims. A wife who committed suicide, or a son who shot himself right in front of his father because his dad had an affair with his secretary.

To all who are reading this, I pray, we would not succumb to this sin, that we would flee it fast and hard, and die with integrity (Genesis 39:15; 2 Timothy 2:22).

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.