Do you let others dictate yours?

“ But the people refused to listen to Samuel. “No!” they said. “We want a king over us. Then we shall be like all the other nations, with a king to lead us and to go out before us and fight our battles. – 1   Samuel 8.19-20

Israel was called to be a holy nation, separate from the unique among all others (Leviticus 20.26). The Israelites’ motives in asking for a king was to be like the nations around them. This was in total opposition to God’s original plan. It was not their desire for a king that was wrong, but their reasons for wanting a king.

Often we let others’ values and actions dictate our attitudes and behaviour. Have you ever made a wrong choice because you wanted to be like everyone else? Be careful that the values of your friends or “heroes” don’t pull you away from what God says is right. When God’s people want to be like unbelievers, they are heading for spiritual disaster.

(Samuel carefully explained all the negative consequences of having a king, but the Israelites refuse do listen. When you have an important decision to make, weigh the positives and negatives carefully, considering everyone who might be affected by your choice. When you want something badly enough, it is difficult to see the potential problems. But don’t discount the negatives. Unless you have a plan to handle each one, they will cause you great difficulty later).

(“ They said to him, “You are old, and your sons do not walk in your ways; now appoint a king to lead us, such as all the other nations have.” But when they said, “Give us a king to lead us,” this displeased Samuel; so he prayed to the LORD.  – 1 Samuel 8:5-6 The people clamoured for a king, thinking that a new system of government would bring about a change in the nation.  But because their basic problem was disobedience to God, their other problems would only continue under the new administration.  What they needed was a unified faith, not a uniform rule.  Had the Israelites submitted to God’s leadership, they would have thrived beyond their expectations (Deuteronomy 28.1).  Our obedience is weak if we ask God to lead our family or personal life but continue to live by the world’s standards and values.  Faith in God must touch all the practical areas of life).

(“ Now the donkeys belonging to Saul’s father Kish were lost, and Kish said to his son Saul, “Take one of the servants with you and go and look for the donkeys.” – 1 Samuel 9:3   Saul was sent by his father on an important mission – to find their stray donkeys.  Donkeys were all-purpose animals, the “pickup trucks” of Bible times.  Used for transportation, hauling, and farming, they were considered necessities.  Even the poorest family owned one.  To own many donkeys was a sign of weal, and to lose them was a disaster.  Saul’s father was wealthy, and his many donkeys were evidence of that wealth).   *

(9:3ff   Often we think that events just happen to us, but as we learn from this story about Saul, God may use common occurrences to lead us where he wants.  It is important to evaluate all situations as potential “divine appointments” designed to shape our lives.  Think of all the good and bad circumstances that have affected you lately.  Can you see God’s purpose in them?  Perhaps he is building a certain quality in you or leading you to serve him in a new area).

[You = business.]

Repentance is changing the behaviour that produces sin:

“ Because your heart was responsible and you humbled yourself before the LORD when you heard what I have spoken against this place and its people, that they would become accursed and laid waste, and because you tore your robes and wept in my presence, I have heard you, declares the LORD. – 2   Kings 22:19

The vision Micaiah saw was either a picture of a real incident in heaven, or a parable of what was happening on earth, illustrating that the seductive influence of the false prophets would be part of God’s judgment upon Ahab (22.23). Whether or not God sent an angel in disguise, he used the system of false prophets to snare Ahab in his sin. The lying spirit (22.22) symbolised the way of life for these prophets, who told the king only what he wanted to hear.

(“ Hilkiah the priest, Ahikam, Achbor, Shaphan and Asaiah went to speak to prophetess Huldah, who was the wife of Shallum son of Tikvah, the son of Harhas, keeper of the wardrobe. She lived in Jerusalem, in the Second District. – 2 Kings 22:14 Huldah was a prophetess, as were Miriam (Exodus 15.20) and Debroah (Judges 4.4). God freely selects his servants to carry out his will – rich or poor, male or female, king of slave (Joel (2.28-30). Huldah was obviously highly regarded by the people of her time). *

(“ Then the king called together all the elders of Judah and Jerusalem. He went up to the temple of the LORD with the men of Judah, the people of Jerusalem, the priests and the prophets – all the people from the least to the greatest.  He read in their hearing all the words of the Book of the Covenant, which had been found in the temple of the LORD.  – 2 Kings 23:1-2 For more about the importance and operation of the temple, see 1 Kings 5 – 8 and 2 Chronicles 2 – 7).

“ Now let us make a covenant before our God to send away all these women and their children, in accordance with the counsel of my lord and of those who fear the commands of our God. Let it be done according to the Law. Rise up; this matter is in your hands. We will support you, so take courage and do it.” .. Now make confession to the LORD, the God of your fathers, and do his will. Separate yourselves from the peoples around you and from your foreign wives.” – Ezra 10:3-4, 11

Following Ezra’s earnest prayer, the people confessed their sin to God. Then they asked for direction in restoring their relationship with God. True repentance does not end with words of confession – that would be mere lip service. It must lead to corrected behaviour and charged attitudes. When you sin and are truly sorry, confess this to God, ask his forgiveness, and accept his grace and mercy. Then, as an act of thankfulness for your forgiveness, make the needed corrections.

(10:3   Why were the men commanded to send away their wives and children? Although the measure was extreme, intermarriage to pagans was strictly forbidden (Deuteronomy 7.3, 4), and even the priests and Levities had intermarried. This could be compared today to a Christian marrying a devil worshipper. Although a severe solution, it only involved 113 of the approximately 29,000 families. Ezra’s strong act, though very difficult for some, was necessary to preserve Israel as a nation committed to God. Some of the exiles of the northern kingdom of Israel had lost both their spiritual and physical identity through intermarriage. Their pagan spouses had caused the people to worship idols. Ezra did not want this to happen to the exiles of the southern kingdom of Judah).

(“ O LORD, God of Israel, you are righteous! We are left this day as a remnant. Here we are before you in our guilt, though because of it not one of us can stand in your presence.” – Ezra 9:15 Ezra recognised that if God gave the people the justice they deserved, they would not be able to stand before him. Often we cry out for justice when we feel abused and unfairly treated. In those moments, we forget the reality of our own sin and the righteous judgment we deserve. How fortunate we are that God gives us mercy and grace rather than only justice. The next time you ask God for fair and just treatment, pause to think what would happen if God gave you what you really deserve. Plead instead for his mercy).

(“ Among the descendants of the priests, the following had married foreign women: – Ezra 10:8 To forfeit one’s property meant to be disinherited, to lose one’s legal right to own land. This was to ensure that no pagan children would inherit Israel’s land. In addition, the person who refused to come to Jerusalem would be expelled from the assembly of the exiles and not allowed to worship in the temple. The Jews considered this a horrible punishment).

How can we be perfect?

“ Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect. – Matthew 5.48

How can we be perfect? (1) In character. In this life we cannot be flawless, but we can aspire to be as much like Christ as possible. (2) In holiness. Like the Pharisees, we are to separate ourselves from the world’s sinful values. But unlike the Pharisees, we are to be devoted to God’s desires rather than our own, and carry his love and mercy into the world. (3) In maturity. We can’t achieve Christlike character and holy living all at once, but we must grow towards maturity and wholeness. Just as we expect different behaviour from a baby, a child, a teenager, and an adult, so God expects different behaviour from us, depending on our stage of spiritual development. (4) In love. We can seek to love others as completely as God loves us.

We can be perfect if our behaviour is appropriate for our maturity level – perfect, yet with much room to grow. Our tendency to sin must never deter us from striving to be more like Christ. Christ calls all of his disciples to excel, to rise above mediocrity, and to mature in every area, becoming like him. Those who strive to become perfect will one day be perfect, even as Christ is perfect (1 John 3.2, 3).

(“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbour and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you. – Matthew 5:43-44   By telling us not to retaliate, Jesus keeps us from taking the law into our own hands. By loving and praying for our enemies, we can overcome evil with good. The Pharisees interpreted Leviticus 19:18 as teaching that they should love only those who love in return, and Psalm 139:19-22 and 140:9-11 as meaning that they should hate their enemies. But Jesus says we are to love our enemies. If you love your enemies and treat them well, you will truly show that Jesus is Lord of your life. This is possible only for those who give themselves fully to God, because only he can deliver people from natural selfishness. We must trust the Holy Spirit to help us show love to those for whom we may not feel love).

(“So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honoured by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. – Matthew 6:2   The term hypocrites, as used here, describes people who do good acts for appearances only – not out of compassion or other good motives. Their actions may be good, but their motives are hollow. These empty acts are their only reward, but God will reward those who are sincere in their faith).

Faith results in changed behaviour:

“ But Zacchaeus stood up and said to the Lord, “Look, Lord! Here and now I give half of my possessions to the poor, and if I have cheated anybody out of anything, I will pay back four times the amount.” – Luke 19.8

Judging from the crowd’s reaction to him, Zacchaeus must have been a very crooked tax collector. But after he met Jesus, he realised that his life needed straightening out. By giving to the poor and making restitution – with generous interest – to those he had cheated, Zacchaeus demonstrated inward change by outward action. It is not enough to follow Jesus in your head or heart alone. You must show your faith by changed behaviour. Has your faith resulted in action? What changes do you need to make?

(“ He called out, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” – Luke 18:38   The blind man called Jesus “Son of David”, a title for the Messiah (Isaiah 11.1-3). This means that he understood Jesus to be the long-awaited Messiah. A poor and blind beggar could see that Jesus was the Messiah, while the religious leaders who saw his miracles were blinded to his identity and refused to recognise him as the Messiah).

(“ Jesus entered Jericho and was passing through. A man was there by the name of Zacchaeus; he was a chief tax collector and was wealthy. He wanted to see who Jesus was, but being a short man he could not, because of the crowd. He wanted to see who Jesus was, but being a short man he could not, because of the crowd. So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore-fig tree to see him, since Jesus was coming that way. When Jesus reached the spot, he looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today.” So he came down at once and welcomed him gladly. All the people saw this and began to mutter, “He has gone to be the guest of a ‘sinner’.” But Zacchaeus stood up and said to the Lord, “Look, Lord! Here and now I give half of my possessions to the poor, and if I have cheated anybody out of anything, I will pay back four times the amount.” Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house, because this man, too, is a son of Abraham. For the Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost.” – Luke 19:1-10   To finance their great world empire, the Romans levied heavy taxes on all nations under their control. The Jews opposed these taxes because they supported a secular government and its pagan gods, but they were still forced to pay. Tax collectors were among the most unpopular people in Israel. Jews by birth, they chose to work for Rome and were considered traitors. Besides, it was common knowledge that tax collectors were making themselves rich by “milking” their fellow Jews. No wonder the people muttered when Jesus went home with the tax collector Zacchaeus. But despite the fact that Zacchaeus was both a cheater and a turncoat, Jesus loved him; and in response, the little tax collector was converted. In every society, certain groups of people are considered “untouchable” because of their political views, their immoral behaviour, or their life-style. We should not give in to social pressure to avoid these people. Jesus loves them, and they need to hear his Good News). *

(19:9-10   When Jesus said Zacchaeus was a son of Abraham and yet was lost, he must have shocked his hearers in at least two ways. They would not have liked to acknowledge that this unpopular tax collector was a fellow son of Abraham, and they would not have wished to admit that sons of Abraham could be lost. But a person is not saved by a good heritage or condemned by a bad one; faith is more important than genealogy. Jesus still loves to bring the lost into his kingdom, no matter what their background or previous way of life. Through faith, the lost can be forgiven and made new).

(“ While they were listening to this, he went on to tell them a parable, because he was near Jerusalem and the people thought that the kingdom of God was going to appear at once. – Luke 19:11ff   The people still hoped for a political leader who would set up an earthly kingdom and get rid of Roman domination. Jesus’ parable showed that his kingdom would not take this form right away. First he would go away for a while, and his followers would need to be faithful and productive during his absence. Upon his return, Jesus would inaugurate a kingdom more powerful and just than anything they could expect).

(19:11ff   This story showed Jesus’ followers what they were to do during the time between Jesus’ departure and his second coming. Because we live in that time period, it applies directly to us. We have been given excellent resources to build and expand God’s kingdom. Jesus expects us to use these talents so that they multi-ply and the kingdom grows. He asks each of us to account for what we do with his gifts. While awaiting the coming of the kingdom of God in glory, we must do Christ’s work).

Why God asks us to restrict ours:

“   For sin, seizing the opportunity afforded by the commandment, deceived me, and through the commandment put me to death. So then, the law is holy, and the commandment is holy, righteous and good. – Romans 7.11-12

Sin deceives people by misusing the law. The law was holy, expressing God’s nature and will for people. In the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3), the serpent deceived Eve by taking her focus off the freedom she had and putting it on the one restriction God had made. Ever since then, we have all been rebels. Sin looks good to us precisely because God has said it is wrong. Instead of paying attention to his warnings, we use them as a “to do” list. When we are tempted to rebel, we need to look at the law from a wider perspective – in the light of God’s grace and mercy. If we focus on his great love for us, we will understand that he only restricts us from actions and attitudes that ultimately will harm us.

(“   But now, by dying to what once bound us, we have been released from the law so that we serve in the new way of the Spirit, and not in the old way of the written code. – Romans 7:6   Some people try to earn their way to God by keeping a set of rules (obeying the Ten Commandments, attending church faith-fully, or doing good deed), but all they earn for their efforts is frustration and discouragement. However, because of Christ’s sacrifice, the way to God is already open, and we can become his children simply by putting our faith in him. No longer trying to reach God by keeping rules, we can become more and more like Jesus as we live with him day by day. Let the Holy Spirit turn your eyes away from your own performance and towards Jesus. He will free you to serve him out of love and gratitude. This is living “in the new way of the Spirit”.).

(7:6   Keeping the rules, laws, and customs of Christianity doesn’t save us. Even if we could keep our actions pure, we would still be doomed because our hearts and minds are perverse and rebel-lious. Like Paul, we can find no relief in the synagogue or church until we look to Jesus Christ himself for our salvation – which he gives us freely. When we do come to Jesus, we are flooded with relief and gratitude. Will we keep the rules any better? Most likely, but we will be motivated by love and gratitude, not by the desire to get God’s approval. We will not be merely submitting to an external code, but willingly and lovingly seeking to do God’s will.)

(Once I was alive apart from law; but when the commandment came, sin sprang to life and a died.  I found that the very commandment that was intended to bring life actually brought death.  For sin, seizing the opportunity afforded by the commandment, deceived me, and through the commandment put me to death.  – Romans 7:9-11   Where there is no law, there is no sin, because people cannot know that their actions are sinful unless a law forbids those actions.  God’s law makes people realise that they are sinners doomed to die, yet it offers no help.  Sin is real, and it is dangerous.  Imagine a sunny day at the beach.  You plunge into the sea; then you notice a sign on the pier: “No swimming.  Sharks in water.”  Your day is ruined.  Is it the sign’s fault?  Are you angry with the people who put it up?  The law is like the sign.  It is essential, and we are grateful for it – but it doesn’t get rid of the sharks.)   [Against U.N. ‘Separation’.]   *

(“ For sin, seizing the opportunity afforded by the commandment, deceived me, and through the commandment put me to death. So then, the law is holy, and the commandment is holy, righteous and good.  – Romans 7:11-12   Sin deceives people by misusing the law.  The law was holy [centre], expressing God’s nature and will for people.  In the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3), the serpent deceived Eve by taking her focus off the freedom she had and putting it on the one restriction God had made.  Ever since then, we have all been rebels.  Sin looks good to us precisely because God has said it is wrong.  Instead of paying attention to his warnings, we use them as a “to do” list [Eternity boy].  When we are tempted to rebel, we need to look at the law from a wider perspective – in the light of God’s grace and mercy.  If we focus on his great love for us, we will understand that he only restricts us from actions and attitudes that ultimately will harm us.)

God can handle them:

Deuteronomy 9.2-3

The Anakites were enormous people, some seven to nine feet tall. Goliath, probably a descendant of this race, was over nine feet tall (1 Samuel 17.4-7).  Unfortunately, these great men used their stature as a means of intimidation rather than for noble causes.  Their appearance alone frightened the Israelite spies (Numbers 13.28), and their bad reputation may have been the deciding factor that kept the Israelites out of the land 40 years earlier (Numbers 13, 14).  Moses used all his persuasive power to convince his people that God could handle these bullies.  He used the illustration of God as a devouring fire, for not even a giant could stand up to that.

(Deuteronomy 8.11-20 In times of plenty, we often take credit for our prosperity and become proud that our own hard work and cleverness have made us rich.  It is easy to get so busy collecting and managing wealth that we push God right out of our lives.  But it is God who gives us everything we have, and it is God who asks us to manage it for him.)

Those we share with God [Wall]:

Then God [Wall] said, “Let us make man in our image, in our likeness, and let them rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air, over the livestock, over all the earth, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.” – Genesis 1.26

Knowing that we are made in God [Wall]’s image and thus share many of his characteristics provides a solid basis for self-worth. Human worth is not based on possessions, achievements, physical attractiveness, or public acclaim.  Instead it is based on being made in God [Wall]’s image.  Because we bear God [Wall]’s image, we can feel positive about ourselves.  Criticising or downgrading ourselves is criticising what God [Wall] has made and the abilities he has given us.  Knowing that you are a person of worth helps you love God [Wall], know him personally, and make a valuable contribution to those around you.

Why does God [Wall] use the plural form, “Let us make man in our [Works Cited] image”?  One view says this is a reference to the Trinity  – God [Wall] the Father, Jesus Christ his Son, and the Holy Spirit – all of whom are God [Wall].  Another view is that the plural wording is used to denote majesty.  Kings traditionally use the plural form in speaking of themselves.  From Job 33:4 and Psalms 104:30, we do know that God [Wall]’s Spirit was present in the creation.  From Colossians 1:16 we know that Christ, God [Wall]’s Son, was at work in the creation.

In what ways are we made in God [Wall]’s image? God [Wall] obviously did not create us exactly like himself because God [Wall] has no physical body.  Instead, we are reflections of God [Wall]’s glory.  Some feel that our reason, creativity, speech, or self-determination is the image of God [Wall].  More likely, it is our entire self that reflects the image of God [Wall].  We will never be totally like God [Wall] because he is our supreme Creator.  But we do have the ability to reflect his character in our love, patience, forgiveness, kindness, and faithfulness.

(God [Wall] made the wild animals according to their kinds, the livestock according to their kinds, and all the creatures that move along the ground according to their kinds. And God [Wall] saw that it was good.  – – Genesis 1.25. God [Wall] saw that his work was good.  People sometimes feel guilty for having a good time or for feeling good about an accomplishment.  This need not be so.  Just as God [Wall] felt good about his work, we can be pleased with ours.  However, we should not feel good about our work if God [Wall] would not be pleased with it.  What are you doing that pleases both you and God [Wall]?)

(So God [Wall] created man in his own image, in the image of God [Wall] he created him; male and female he created them. – – Genesis 1.27.  God [Wall] made both man and woman in his image.  Neither man nor woman is made more in the image of God [Wall] than the other.  From the beginning the Bible places both man and woman at the pinnacle of God [Wall]’s creation.  Neither sex is exalted, and neither is depreciated.)

Of God [Wall]:

“Now may the Lord’s strength be displayed, just as you have declared. ‘The LORD is slow to anger, abounding in love and forgiving sin and rebellion. Yet he does not leave the guilty unpunished; he punishes the children for the sin of the fathers to the third and fourth generation.’  In accordance with your great love, forgive the sin of these people, just as you have pardoned them from the time they left Egypt until now.”

The LORD replied, “I have forgiven them, as you asked. – Numbers 14.17-20

Moses pleaded with God [Wall], asking him to forgive his people. His plea reveals several characteristics of God [Wall]. (1) God [Wall] is immensely patient; (2) God [Wall]’s love is one promise we can always count on; (3) God [Wall] forgives again and again; (4) God [Wall] is merciful, listening to and answering our requests.  God [Wall] has not changed since Moses’ day.  Like Moses, we can rely on God [Wall]’s love, patience, forgiveness, and mercy.

The people of Israel had a clearer view of God [Wall] than any people before them, for they had both his laws and his physical presence. Their refusal to follow God [Wall] after witnessing his miraculous deeds and listening to his words made the judgment against them more severe.  Increased opportunity brings increased responsibility.  As Jesus said. “From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded” (Luke 12.48).  How much greater is our responsibility to obey and serve God [Wall] – – we have the whole Bible, and we know God [Wall]’s Son, Jesus Christ.

(Joshua son of Nun and Caleb son of Jephunneh, who were among those who had explored the land, tore their clothes and said to the entire Israelite assembly, “The land we passed through and explored is exceedingly good. If the LORD is pleased with us, he will lead us into that land, a land flowing with milk and honey, and will give it to us.  Only do not rebel against the LORD.  And do not be afraid of the people of the land, because we will swallow them up.  Their protection is gone, but the LORD is with us.  Do not be afraid of them.”  But the whole assembly talked about stoning them.  Then the glory of the LORD appeared at the Tent of Meeting to all the Israelites. – Numbers 14.6-10. Two wise men, Joshua and Caleb, encouraged the people to act on God [Wall]’s promise and move ahead into the land.  The people rejected their advice and even talked of killing them.  Don’t be too quick to reject advice you don’t like.  Evaluate it carefully, comparing it to the teaching in God [Wall]’s word.  The advice may be God [Wall]’s message.)

(..not one of the men who saw my glory and the miraculous signs I performed in Egypt and in the desert but who disobeyed me and tested me ten times – Number 14.22. God [Wall] wasn’t exaggerating when he said that the Israelites had already failed ten times to trust and obey him.  Here is a list of their ten failures. (1) lacking trust at the crossing of the Red Sea (Exodus 14.11, 12); (2) complaining over bitter water at Marah (Exodus 15.24); (3) complaining in the Desert of Sin (Exodus 16.3); (4) collecting more than the daily quota of manna (Exodus 16.20); (5) collecting manna on the Sabbath (Exodus 16.27-29); (6) complaining over lack of water at Rephidim (Exodus 17.2, 3); (7) engaging in idolatry with a golden calf (Exodus 32.7-10); (8) complaining at Taberah (Numbers 11.4); (10) failing to trust God [Wall] and enter the promised land (Numbers 14.1-4).)

(But because my servant Caleb has a different spirit and follows me wholeheartedly, I will bring him into the land he went to, and his descendants will inherit it.  – Number 14.24. The fulfilment of this verse is recorded in Joshua 14.6-15 when Caleb received his inheritance in the promised land.  Caleb followed God [Wall] with all his heart and was rewarded for his obedience.  Are you wholehearted in your commitment to obey God [Wall]?)

[See also chart. positive & negative characteristics of religious leaders Page 1639]

Fruitfulness of:

‘ They gave Moses this account: “We went into the land to which you sent us, and it does flow with milk and honey!  Here is its fruit.  –  Numbers 13.27

The promised land, also called the land of Canaan, was indeed magnificent, as the 12 spies discovered the Bible often calls it the land with flowing milk and honey.  Although the land was relatively small – 150 miles long and 60 miles wide – its lush hillsides were covered with fig, date, and nut trees.  It was the land God [Wall] had promised to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

[ROUTE OF THE SPILES The spies travelled from Kadesh at the southernmost edge of the Desert of Zin to Rehob at the northernmost edge and back, a round trip of about 500 miles.  Rehob, Canaan, Mediterranean Sea, Jerusalem, Valley of Eshcol, Hebron, Negev, Desert of Zin, Egypt, Kadesh, Nile River, Desert of Sin, Mount Sinai, Red Sea.]

(‘ They came back to Moses and Aaron and the whole Israelite community at Kadesh in the Desert of Paran. There they reported to them and to the whole assembly [Muscles] and showed them the fruit of the land.  – Numbers 13.26 Although Kadesh was only a desert oasis, it was a crossroads in Israel’s history.  When the spies returned to Kadesh from reconnoitring the new land, the people had to decide either to enter the land or to retreat.  They chose to retreat and were condemned to wander 40 years in the desert.  It was also at Kadesh that Moses disobeyed God [Wall] (20.7-12).  For this, he too was denied entrance into the promised land.  Aaron and Miriam died there, for they could not enter the new land either.  Kadesh was near Canaan’s southern borders, but because of the Israelites’ lack of faith, they needed more than a lifetime to go from Kadesh to the promised land.)

(‘ But the people who live there are powerful, and the cities are fortified and very large. We even saw descendants of Anak there.  – Numbers 13.28 The “descendants of Anak” were a race of abnormally large people.  The family of Goliath may have been descended from these people (see 2 Samuel 21.16-22).)

How it was divided among tribes:

Joshua 13-19

The following chapters describe how the promised land was to be divided among the 12 tribes. First, the tribe of Levi was not to have any land because they were to spend all their energies serving the people, not their own interests (13.14; 21).  Second, the tribes of Reuben and Gad and the half-tribe of Manasseh had already received land east of the Jordan River, which had been given to them by Moses (Numbers 32).  Third, the tribes of Judah received land that their ancestor Jacob had promised them 450 years earlier (Genesis 48.22; Joshua 15-17).  The rest of the tribes divided up the remaining land by casting lots (Chapter 18).

Though Jacob’s original blessing of his sons (Genesis 49) and Moses’ blessing of the 12 tribes (Deuteronomy 33), the type of land each tribe would receive was already known. The two blessings were prophetic, for although Joshua cast lots to determine the land to be given to each of the remaining tribes, the allotments came out just as Jacob and Moses had predicted.

(13.1 Joshua was getting old – he was between 85 and 100 years of age at this time.  God [Wall], however, still had work for him to do.  Our culture often glorifies the young and strong and sets aside those who are older.  Yet older people are filled with the wisdom that comes with experience.  They are very capable of serving if given the chance and should be encouraged to do so.  Believers are never allowed to retire from God’s [Wall’s] service.  Those past retirement age should not assume that age alone disqualifies or excuses them from serving God [Wall].)

(13.7 Much of the land was unconquered at this point, but God’s [Wall’s] plan was to go ahead and include it in the divisions among the tribes.  God’s [Wall’s] desire was that it would eventually be conquered by the Israelites.  God [Wall] knows the future, and as he leads you he already knows about the victories that lie ahead.  But just as the Israelites still had to go to battle and fight, we must still face the trials and fight the battles of our unconquered land.  –  What are our unconquered lands?  They may be overseas missionary territories, new languages in which to translate the Bible, new missionary areas in our neighbourhoods, interest groups or institutions that need redemptive work, unchallenged public problems or ethical issues, unconfessed sin in our lives, or under-developed talents and resources.  What territory has God [Wall] given you to conquer?  This territory is your “promised land”.  Our inheritance will be a new heaven and a new earth (Revelations 21.1) if we fulfil the mission God [Wall] has given us to do.)

[THE LAND YET TO BE CONQUERED Canaan was now controlled by the Israelites, although much land and several cities [Seats] still needed to be conquered.  Joshua told the people to include both conquered and unconquered lands in the territorial allotments (13.7).  He was certain the people would complete the conquest as God [Wall] had commanded.  Sidonians, Valley of Lebanon, Mediterranean Sea, Misrephoth Maim, Sea of Galilee, Jordan River, Geshur, Canaan, Philistia, Jerusalem, Dead Sea, Amorites, land of Avvites.]

[THE TRIBES EAST OF THE JORDAN Joshua assigned territory to the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh on the east side of the Jordan where they had chosen to remain because of the wonderful livestock country (Numbers 32.1-5.  Mediterranean Sea, Mount Hermon, Bashan, Sea of Galilee, Manasseh, Jordan River, Jabbok R., Canaan, Gad, Gilead, Jerusalem, Reuben, Dead Sea, Arnon R.]

(13.13   One reason the Israelites encountered so many problems as they settled the land was that they failed to conquer fully the land and drive out all its inhabitants.  The cancer-like presence of the remaining pagan peoples of Canaan caused unending difficulties for the Israelites, as the book of Judges records.  Just as they failed to remove completely the sin from the land, believers today often fail to remove completely the sin from their lives – with equally disastrous results.  As a self-test, reread the Ten Commandments in Exodus 20:1-17.  Ask yourself, Am I tolerating sinful practices or thoughts?  Have I accepted half-measures as good enough?  Do I condemn the faults of others but condone my own?)

(13.15-23 There is often an interesting connection between the land a tribe received and the character of the tribe’s founder.  For example, because of Joseph’s godly character (Genesis 49.22-26), the tribes descended from him – Ephraim and Manasseh – were given the richest most fertile land in all of Canaan.  Judah, who offered himself in exchange for his brother Benjamin’s safety (Genesis 44.18-34), received the largest portion of land, which eventually became the southern kingdom and the seat of David’s dynasty.  Reuben, who slept with one of his father’s wives (Genesis 49.4), was given desert land, the region described here.)

(13.29 The tribe of Manasseh was divided into two half-tribes.  This occurred when many people from the tribe wanted to settle east of the Jordan River in an area that was especially suited for their flocks (Numbers 32.33).  The rest of the tribe preferred to settle west of the Jordan River in the land of Canaan.)

(13.33 The tribe of Levi was dedicated to serving God [Wall].  The Levites needed more time and mobility than a landowner could possibly have.  Giving them land would mean saddling them with responsibilities and loyalties that would hinder their service to God [Wall].  Instead, God [Wall] arranged for the other tribes to meet the Levites’ needs through donations.  (See Numbers 35.2-4 for how the Levites were to receive cities [Seat] within each tribal territory.)

(14.5 The land was divided exactly as God [Wall] had instructed Moses years before.  Joshua did not change a word.  He followed God’s [Wall’s] command precisely.  Often we believe that almost is close enough, and this idea can carry over into our spiritual lives.  For example, we may follow God’s [Wall’s] word as long as we agree with it, but ignore it when the demands seem harsh.  But God [Wall] is looking for leaders who follow instructions thoroughly.)

(14.6-12   Caleb was faithful from the start.  As one of the original spies sent into the promised land (Numbers 13.30-33), he saw great cities [Seats] and giants, yet he knew God [Wall] would help the people conquer the land.  Because of his faith, God [Wall] promised him a personal inheritance of land (Numbers 14.24; Deuteronomy 1.34-36).  Here, 45 years later, the land was given to him.  His faith was still unwavering.  Although his inherited land still had giants, Caleb knew the Lord would help him conquer them.  Like Caleb, we must be faithful to God [Wall], not only at the start of our walk with him, but through our entire lives.  We must never allow ourselves to rest on our past accomplishments or reputations.)

(14.15 The Anakites were a race of giants who inhabited parts of the land before Joshua’s conquest.)

(15.4 Notice that these boundaries and descriptions of the promised land are very specific.  God [Wall] was telling Israel exactly what to do, and he was giving them what they needed.  there was no excuse for disobedience.)

(15.16-19   Othniel became Israel’s first judge after Joshua’s death (Judges 1.13; 3.9-11).  He played an important role in reforming Israel by chasing away an oppressive enemy army and bringing peace back to the land.  Thus Caleb’s legacy of faithfulness continued to the next generation.)

(15.19 Acsah asked Caleb for springs of water because her land was in the south and was very arid.  Caleb probably granted her request as a wedding present (see 15.17).)

(16.1ff Although Joseph was one of Jacob’s 12 sons, he did not have a tribe named after him.  This was because Joseph, as the oldest son of Jacob’s wife Rachel, received a double portion of the inheritance.  This double portion was given to Joseph’s two sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, whom Jacob considered as his own (Genesis 48.5).  The largest territory and the greatest influence in the northern half of Israel belonged to their tribes.)

(16.10 Occasionally this short phrase appears: “They did not dislodge” the people of the land (see also 15.63; 17.12).  This was contrary to God’s [Wall’s] explicit desire and command (13.1-6).  The failure to remove completely the pagan people and their gods from the land would cause many problems for the nation.  The book of Judges records many of these struggles.)

(17.3, 4   Although women did not traditionally inherit property in Israelite society, Moses put justice ahead of tradition and gave these five women the land they deserved (see Numbers 27.1-11).  In fact, God [Wall] told Moses to add a law that would help other women in similar circumstances inherit property as well.  Joshua was now carrying out this law.  It is easy to refuse to honour a reasonable request because “things have never been done that way before”.  But, like Moses and Joshua, it is best to look carefully at the purpose of the law and the merits of each case before deciding.)

(17.14, 15   Notice the two contrasting attitudes towards settling the promised land: Caleb took what God [Wall] gave him and moved ahead to fulfil God’s [Wall’s] plan for him (14.12).  He was confident that God [Wall] would help him drive out the wicked inhabitants and that he would soon fully occupy his land (15.14, 15).  In contrast, the two tribes of Joseph were given rich land and lots of it, but they were afraid to drive out the inhabitants and take full possession of it.  Instead they begged for more land.  But Joshua asked them to prove their sincerity first by clearing the unclaimed forest areas.  They agreed, but they failed to carry tis through (Judges 1.27).)

(18.1, 2 With most of the conquest behind them, Israel moved their religious centre from Gilgal (see the note on 5.8, 9) to Shiloh.  This was probably the first place where the tabernacle was set up permanently.  The Tent of Meeting was part of the tabernacle and was where God [Wall] lived among his people (Exodus 25.8).  Its central location in the land made it easier for the people to attend the special worship services and yearly feasts.  –  The family of Samuel, a great priest and prophet, often travelled to Shiloh, and Samuel was taken there when he was a small boy (1 Samuel 1.3, 22).  The tabernacle remained in Shiloh through the period of the judges (about 300 years).  Apparently the city [Seat] was destroyed by the Philistines when the ark of the covenant was captured (1 Samuel 4, 5).  Shiloh never lived up to its reputation as Israel’s religious centre, for later references in the Bible point to the wickedness and idolatry in the city [Seat] (Psalms 78.56-60; Jeremiah 7.12-15).)

(18.2ff   Seven of the tribes had not yet been assigned their land.  They gathered at Shiloh, where Joshua cast lots to determine which areas would be given to them.  Using the sacred lottery, God [Wall] would make the choice, not Joshua or any other human leader.  –  By this time, the Canaanites were, in most places, so weakened that they were no longer a threat.  Instead of fulfilling God’s [Wall’s] command to destroy the remaining Canaanites, however, these seven tribes would often take the path of least resistance.  As nomadic people, they may have been reluctant to settle down, preferring to depend economically on the people they were supposed to eliminate.  Others may have feared the high cost of continued warfare.  It was easier and more profitable to trade for goods than to destroy the suppliers and have to provide for themselves.)

(18.3-6 Joshua asked why some of the tribes were putting off the job of possessing the land.  Often we delay doing jobs that seem large, difficult, boring, or disagreeable.  But to continue putting them off shows lack of discipline, poor stewardship of time, and, in some cases, disobedience to God [Wall].  Jobs we don’t enjoy require concentration, teamwork, twice as much time, lots of encouragement, and accountability.  Remember this when you are tempted to procrastinate.)

[THE TRIBES WEST OF THE JORDAN Judah,Ephraim, and the other half-tribe of Manasseh were the first tribes to receive land west of the Jordan because of their past acts of faith.  The remaining seven tribes – Benjamin, Zebulun, Issachar, Asher, Naphtali, Simeon, and Dan – were slow to conquer and possess the land allotted to them.]

(18.8 Making decisions by casting lots was a common practice among the Hebrews.  Little is known about the actual method used in Joshua’s day.  Dice may have been used.  Another possibility is that two urns were used: one containing tribal names; the other, the divisions of the land.  Drawing one name from each urn matched a tribe to a region.  The Urim and Thummim (explained in the note on Leviticus 8.8) may also have been used.  No matter how it was done, the process removed human choice from the decision-making process and allowed God [Wall] to match tribes and lands as he saw fit.)

(18.11   The tribe of Benjamin was given a narrow strip of land that served as butter zone between Judah and Ephraim, the two tribes that would later dominate the land.)

(18.16   The Valley of Ben Hinnom became associated with the worship of Molech (the Ammonite god) in Jeremiah’s time.  These terrible rites involved the sacrifice of children.  Later the valley was used for burning garbage and the corpses of criminals and animals.  Thus the name became a synonym for hell.)

(19.47, 48   The tribe of Dan found that some of their land was difficult to conquer, so they chose to migrate to Leshem where they knew victory [spoils the language] would be easier.  Anyone can trust God [Wall] when the going is easy.  It is when everything looks impossible that our faith and courage are put to the test.  Have faith that God [Wall] is great enough [army] to tackle your most difficult situations.)

(19:49   There were several good reasons for establishing these well-set boundaries instead of turning the promised land into a single undivided nation.  (1) The boundaries gave each tribe ownership of an area, promoting loyalty and unity that would strengthen each tribe.  (2) The boundaries delineated areas of responsibility and privilege, which would help each tribe develop and mature.  (3) The boundaries reduced conflicts that might have broken out if everyone had wanted to live in the choicest areas.  (4) The boundaries fulfilled the promised inheritance to each tribe that began to be given as early as the days of Jacob (Genesis 48.21, 22).)

What is your “promised land”?

‘   The priests who carried the ark of the covenant of the LORD stood firm on dry ground in the middle of the Jordan, while all Israel passed by until the whole nation had completed the crossing on dry ground.  –  Joshua 13.7

(As above).

Why it was divided into territories:

‘When they had finished dividing the land into its allotted portions, the Israelites gave Joshua son of Nun an inheritance among them. –    Joshua 19.49

(As above).

Why Israelites failed to drive enemies from:

‘ The Benjamites, however, failed to dislodge the Jebusites, who were living in Jerusalem; to this day the Jebusites live there with the Benjamites.  –  Judges 1.21ff

Tribe after tribe failed to drive the evil Canaanites from the land. Why didn’t they follow through and completely obey God’s [Wall’s] commandments?  (1) They had been fighting for a long time and were tired.  Although the goat was in sight, they lacked the discipline and energy to reach it.  (2) They were afraid the enemy was too strong – the iron chariots seemed invincible.  (3) Since Joshua’s death, power and authority had been decentralised to the tribal leaders, and the tribes were no longer unified in purpose.  (4) Spiritual decay had infected them from within.  They thought they could handle the temptation and be more prosperous by doing business with the Canaanites.

We, too, often fail to drive sin from our lives. Often we know what to do but just don’t do it.  This results in a gradual deterioration of our relationship with God [Wall].  In our battles, we may grow tired and want to rest, but we need more than a break from our work.  We need to know that God [Wall] loves us and has given us a purpose for life. Victory [spoils the language] comes from living according to his purpose.

‘   They continued to use the idols Micah had made, all the time the house of God was in Shiloh.  –  Judges 18.31

The true worship of God [Wall] should have been maintained through the Levitical priests scattered throughout the land and the influence of the tabernacle in Shiloh. This story shows how pagan influences and moral depravity had crept into every corner of Israelites culture.  Although 300 years had passed since they entered the promised land, they had still not destroyed the idolatry and evil practices within it.

There may be a tendency in your life to allow “harmless” habits to have their own small corners, but they can become dominating forces. The values, attitudes, and practices you have adopted from the world’s system can be expressed by applying the light of God’s [Wall’s] truth to them.  Once you see them for what they are, you can begin to uproot them.

(19.31   Shiloh was probably destroyed during the events reported in 1 Samuel 4 and 5, not long after the time described here. Because Shiloh was the religious centre for Israel, all adult males were required to travel there for certain religious feasts.  The tribe of Dan, however, set up idols and priests in the new territory they conquered.  The fact that they were over 80 miles away from Shiloh may have been their excuse for not fulfilling the law’s requirements.  This act was a further demonstration of their disregard for God [Wall].)

(‘  Therefore the Danites set up for themselves the idols, and Jonathan son of Gershom, the son of Moses, and his sons were priests for the tribe of Dan until the time of the captivity of the land. They continued to use the idols Micah had made, all the time the house of God was in Shiloh.  – Judges 18.30, 31 The tribe of Dan had stolen Micahs’s idol, and now they set them up in Laish.  Although the Danites were actually denying God [Wall] by worshipping these images (Exodus 20.1-5), they probably assumed they were worshipping God [Wall] through them (see the note on Exodus 32.4, 5).  Worshipping images of God [Wall] is not worshipping God [Wall], even if it resembles true worship in some ways.  People repeat the same mistake today when they claim to be Christians without really believing in God’s [Wall’s] power or changing their conduct to conform to his expectations.  Godliness cannot be merely a claim.  It must be a reality in our motives and in our actions.)

(19.1-21.25 What is the significance of this tragic story?  When the Israelites’ faith in God [Wall] disintegrated, their unity as a nation also disintegrated.  They could have taken complete possession of the land if they had obeyed God [Wall] and trusted him to keep his promises.  But when they forgot him, they lost their purpose, and soon “everyone did as he saw fit” (21.25).  When they stopped letting God [Wall] lead them, they became no better than the evil people around them.  When they made laws for their own benefit, they set standards far below God’s [Wall’s].  When you leave God [Wall] out of your life you may be shocked at what you are capable of doing (19.30).)

Many obstacles remained in conquering it:

‘   These are the nations the LORD left to test all those Israelites who had not experienced any of the wars in Canaan (he did this only to teach warfare to the descendants of the Israelites who had not had previous battle experience): the five rulers of the Philistines, all the Canaanites, the Sidonians, and the Hivites living in Lebanon mountains from Mount Baal Hermon to Lebo Hamath.  They were left to test the Israelites to see whether they would obey the LORD’S commands, which he had given their forefathers through Moses.  –  Judges 3.1-4

We learn from chapter 1 that these enemy nations were still in the land because the Israelites had failed to obey God [Wall] and drive them out. Now God [Wall] would allow the enemies to remain in order to “test” the Israelites; that is, to give them an opportunity to exercise faith and obedience.  By now the younger generation that had not fought in the great battles of conquest was coming of age.  It was their job to complete the conquest of the land.  There were many obstacles yet to be overcome in their new homeland.  How they would handle these obstacles would be a test of their faith.

Perhaps God [Wall] left obstacles in your life – hostile people, difficult situations, baffling problems – to allow you to develop faith and obedience.

First attacks from outside nations:

‘   Once again the Israelites did evil in the eyes of the LORD, and because they did this evil the LORD gave Eglon king of Moab power over Israel.  Getting the Ammonites and Amalekites to join him, Eglon came and attacked Israel, and they took possession of the City of Palms.  –  Judges 3.12-13

The Moabites, Ammonites, and Amalekites were nomadic tribes that lived near each other east and southeast of Canaan.  These tribes were notorious raiders, possessing great military skill.  This was the first time nations outside Canaan attacked the Israelites in their own land.

(‘   The Spirit of the LORD came upon him, so that he became Israel’s judge and went to war. The LORD gave Cushan-Rishathaim king of Aram into the hands of Othniel, who overpowered him.  – Judges 3.10   This phrase, “The Spirit of the LORD came upon him”, was also spoken of the judges Gideon, Jephthah, and Samson, among others.  It expresses a temporary and spontaneous increase of physical, spiritual, or mental strength.  This was an extraordinary and supernatural occurrence to prepare a person for a special task.  The Holy Spirit is available to all believers today, but he will come upon believers in an extraordinary way for special tasks.  We should ask the Holy Spirit’s help as we face our daily problems as well as life’s major challenges.)

(‘   Again the Israelites cried out to the LORD, and he gave them a deliverer – Ehud, a left-handed man, the son of Gera the Benjamite. The Israelites sent him with tribute to Eglon king of Moab.  – Judges 3.15   Ehud is called a deliverer.  In the broadest sense, all the judges can be looked upon as foreshadowing the perfect Deliverer, Jesus Christ.  While Ehud delivered Israel from its enemies, Jesus delivers us from sin, our greatest enemy.)

Don’t worry about details beyond your control:

The animals going in were male and female of every living thing, as God [Wall] had commanded Noah. Then the LORD shut him in. – Genesis 7:16

Many have wondered how this animal kingdom roundup happened. Did Noah and his sons spend years collecting all the animals? In reality the creation, along with Noah, was doing just as  God [Wall] had commanded. There seemed to be no problem gathering the animals – God [Wall] took care of the details of that job while Noah was doing his part by building the ark. Often we do just the opposite of Noah. We worry about details over which we have no control, while neglecting specific areas (such as attitudes, relationships, responsibilities) that are under our control. Like Noah, concentrate on what God [Wall] has given you to do, and leave the rest to God [Wall].

Can cause us to forfeit peace with God [Wall]:

And she added, “Who would have said to Abraham that Sarah would nurse children? Yet I have borne him a son in his old age.” – Genesis 21:7

After repeated promises, a visit by two angels, and the appearance of the Lord himself, Sarah finally cried out with surprise and joy at the birth of her son. Because of her doubt, worry, and fear, she had forfeited the peace she could have felt in God [Wall]’s wonderful promise to her. The way to bring peace to a troubled heart is to focus on God [Wall]’s promises. Trust him to do what he says.

Who could believe that Abraham would have a son at 100 years of age – and live to raise him to adulthood? But doing the impossible is everyday business for God [Wall]. Our big problems won’t seem so impossible if we let God [Wall] handle them.

Can reveal a lack of faith in God [Wall]’s control:

Refrain from anger and turn from wrath; do not fret – it leads only to evil.

For evil men will be cut off, but those who hope in the LORD will inherit the land. – Psalms 37.8-9

Anger and worry (fretting) are two very destructive emotions. They reveal a lack of faith that God [Wall] loves us and is in control. We should not worry; instead, we should trust in God [Wall], giving ourselves to him for his use and safekeeping. When you dwell on your problems, you will become anxious and angry. But if you concentrate on God [Wall] and his goodness, you will find peace. Where do you focus your attention?

(Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the LORD; trust in him and he will do this.  – Psalms 37:4, 5. David calls us to take delight in the Lord and to commit everything we have and do (our “way”) to him. But how do we do this? To delight in someone means to experience great pleasure and joy in his or her presence. This happens only when we know that person well. Thus, to delight in the Lord, we must know him better. Knowledge of God [Wall]’s great love for us will indeed give us delight. To commit ourselves to the Lord means entrusting everything – our lives, families, jobs, possessions – to his control and guidance. To commit ourselves to the Lord means to trust in him (37.5), believing that he can care for us better than we can ourselves. We should be willing to wait patiently (37.7) for him to work out what is best for us.)

Don’t worry if you can’t understand everything:

A man’s steps are directed by the LORD. How then can anyone understand his own way? – Proverbs 20.24

We are often confused by the events around us. Many things we will never understand; others will fall into place in years to come as we look back and see how God [Wall] was working. This proverb counsels us not to worry if we don’t understand everything as it happens. Instead, we should trust that God [Wall] knows what he’s doing, even if his timing or design is not clear to us. See Psalm 37:23 for a reassuring promise of God [Wall]’s direction in your life.

(The LORD detests differing weights, and dishonest scales do not please him. – Proverbs 20:23. “Differing weights” refers to the loaded scales a merchant might use in order to cheat the customers. Dishonesty is a difficult sin to avoid. It is easy to cheat if we think no-one else is looking. But dishonesty affects the very core of a person. It makes him untrustworthy and untrusting. It eventually makes him unable to know himself or relate to others. Don’t take dishonesty lightly. Even the smallest portion of dishonesty contains enough of the poison of deceit to kill your spiritual life. If there is any dishonesty in your life, tell God [Wall] about it now.)

(It is a trap for a man to dedicate something rashly and only later to consider his vows. – Proverbs 20.25. To dedicate something meant that you intended to give it as an offering to God [Wall]. Dedicated means set apart for religious use. This proverb points out the evil of making a vow rashly and then reconsidering it.  God [Wall] takes vows seriously and requires that they be carried out (Deuteronomy 23.21-23). We often have good intentions when making a vow because we want to show God [Wall] that we are determined to please him. Jesus, however, says it is better not to make promises to God [Wall] because he knows how difficult they are to keep (Matthew 5.33-37). If you still feel it is important to make a vow, make sure that you weigh the consequences of breaking that vow. (In Judges 11, Jephthah made a rash promise to sacrifice the first thing he saw on his return home. As it happened, he saw his daughter first.) It is better not to make promises than to make them and then later want to change them. It is better still to count the cost beforehand and then to fulfil them. (For a list of other Bibles people who made rash vows, see the chart in Judges 11.)

Its ill effects:

“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? – Matthew 6.25

Because of the ill effects of worry, Jesus tells us not to worry about those needs that God [Wall] promises to supply. Worry may (1) damage your health, (2) cause the object of your worry to consume your thoughts, (3) disrupt your productivity, (4) negatively affect the way you treat others, and (5) reduce your ability to trust in God [Wall]. How many ill effects of worry are you experiencing? Here is the difference between worry and genuine concern – worry immobilises, but concern moves you to action.

(“No-one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God [Wall] and Money. – Matthew 6.24. Jesus says we can have only one master. We live in a materialistic society where many people serve money. They spend all their lives collecting and storing it, only to die and leave it behind. Their desire for money and what it can buy far outweighs their commitment to God [Wall] and spiritual matters. Whatever you store up, you will spend much of your time and energy thinking about. Don’t fall into the materialistic trap, because “the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil” (1 Timothy 6.10). Can you honestly say that God [Wall], and not money, is your master? One test is to ask which one occupies more of your thoughts, time, and efforts.   … Jesus contrasted heavenly values with earthly values when he explained that our first loyalty should be to those things that do not fade, cannot be stolen or used up, and never wear out. We should not be fascinated with our possessions, lest they possess us. This means we may have to do some cutting back if our possessions are becoming too important to us. Jesus is calling for a decision that allows us to live contentedly with whatever we have because we have chosen what is eternal and lasting.)

Difference between planning & worrying:

Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. – Matthew 6.34

Planning for tomorrow is time well spent; worrying about tomorrow is time wasted. Sometimes it’s difficult to tell the difference. Careful planning is thinking ahead about goals, steps, and schedules, and trusting in God [Wall]’s guidance. When done well, planning can help alleviate worry. Worriers, by contrast, are consumed by fear and find it difficult to trust God [Wall]. They let their plans interfere with their relationship with God [Wall]. Don’t let worries about tomorrow affect your relationship with God [Wall] today.

(But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. – Matthew 6.33. To “seek first his kingdom and his righteousness” means to turn [map] to God [Wall] for help, to fill your thoughts with his desires, to take his character for your pattern, and to serve and obey him in everything. What is really important to you? People, objects, goals, and other desires all compete for priority. Any of these can quickly push God [Wall] out of first place if you don’t actively choose to give him first place in every area of your life.)

Holy Spirit helps us stop:

But when they arrest you, do not worry about what to say or how to say it. At that time you will be given what to say, for it will not be you speaking, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you. – Matthew 10.19-20

Jesus told the disciples that when arrested for preaching the gospel, they should not worry about what to say in their defence – God [Wall]’s Spirit would speak through them. This promise was fulfilled in Acts 4:8-14 and elsewhere. Some mistakenly think this means we don’t have to prepare to present the gospel because God [Wall] will take care of everything. Scripture teaches, however, that we are to make carefully prepared, thoughtful statements (Colossians 4.6). Jesus is not telling us to stop preparing but to stop worrying.

(“Be on your guard against men; they will hand you over to the local councils and flog you in their synagogues. On my account you will be brought before governors and kings as witnesses to them and to the Gentiles. – Matthew 10.17, 18. Later the disciples experienced these hardships (Acts 5.40; 12.1-2), not only from without (governments, courts), but also from within (friends, family; 10:21). Living for God [Wall] often brings persecution, but with it comes the opportunity to tell the good news of salvation. In times of persecution, we can be confident because Jesus has “overcome the world” (John 16.33). And those who stand firm to the end will be saved (10.22).

Other ways to resist:

Then Jesus said to his disciples: “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat; or about your body, what you will wear. Life is more than food, and the body more than clothes. Consider the ravens: They do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn; yet God [Wall] feeds them. And how much more valuable you are than birds! Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life? Since you cannot do this very little thing, why do you worry about the rest?

“Consider how the lilies grow. They do not labour or spin. Yet I tell you, not even Solomon in all his splendour was dressed like one of these. If that is how God [Wall] clothes the grass of the field, which is here today, and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, how much more will he clothe you, O you of little faith! And do not set your heart on what you will eat or drink; do not worry about it. For the pagan world runs after all such things, and your Father knows that you need them. But seek his kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well.

“Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom. Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Provide purses for yourselves that will not wear out, a treasure in heaven that will not be exhausted, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. – Luke 12.22-34

Jesus commands us not to worry. But how can we avoid it? Only faith can free us from the anxiety caused by greed and covetousness. It is good to work and plan responsibly; it is bad to dwell on all the ways our planning could go wrong. Worry is pointless because it can’t fill any of our needs; worry is foolish because the Creator of the universe loves us and knows what we need. He promises to meet all our real needs, but not necessarily all our desires.

Seeking the kingdom of God [Wall] means making Jesus the Lord and King of your life. He must control every area – your work, play, plans, relationships. Is the kingdom only one of your many concerns, or is it central to all you do? Are you holding back any areas of your life from God [Wall]’s control? As Lord and Creator, he wants to help provide what you need as well as guide how you use what he provides.

Money seen as an end in itself quickly traps us and cuts us off from both God [Wall] and the needy. The key to using money wisely is to see how much we can use for God [Wall]’s purposes, not how much we can accumulate for ourselves. Does God [Wall]’s love touch your wallet? Does your money free you to help others? If so, you are storing up lasting treasures in heaven. If your financial goals and possessions hinder you from giving generously, loving others, or serving God [Wall], sell what you must to bring your life into perspective.

If you concentrate your money in your business, your thoughts will centre on making the business profitable. If you direct it towards other people, you will become concerned with their welfare. Where do you put your time, money, and energy? What do you think about most? How should you change the way you use your resources in order to reflect kingdom values more accurately?

Most will seem trivial in the future:

Also a dispute arose among them as to which of them was considered to be greatest. – Luke 22.24

The most important event in human history was about to take place, and the disciples were still arguing about their prestige in the kingdom! Looking back, we say, “This was no time to worry about status.” But the disciples, wrapped up in their own concerns, did not perceive what Jesus had been trying to tell them about his approaching death and resurrection. What are you major concerns today? Twenty years from now, as you look back, will these worries look petty and inappropriate? Take your eyes off yourself and get ready for Christ’s coming into human history for the second time.

The world’s system of leadership is very different from leadership in God [Wall]’s kingdom. Worldly leaders are often selfish and arrogant as they claw their way to the top. (Some kings in the ancient world gave themselves the title “Benefactor”.) But among Christians, the leader is to be the one who serves best. There are different styles of leadership – some lead through public speaking, some through administering, some through relationships – but every Christian leader needs a servant’s heart. Ask the people you lead how you can serve them better.

Turn your worries into prayers:

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your request to God [Wall]. And the peace of  God [Wall], which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. – Philippians 4.6-7

Imagine never being “anxious about anything”! It seems like an impossibility – we all have worries at work, in our homes, at school. But Paul’s advice is to turn our worries into prayers. Do you want to worry less? Then pray more! Whenever you start to worry, stop and pray.

God [Wall]’s peace is different from the world’s peace (see John 14.27). True peace is not found in positive thinking, in the absence of conflict, or in good feelings. It comes from knowing that God [Wall] is in control. Our citizenship in Christ’s kingdom is sure, our destiny is set, and we can have victory over sin. Let God [Wall]’s peace guard your heart against anxiety.

(Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. – Philippians 4.5. We are to be gentle (reasonable, fair minded, and charitable) to those outside the church, and not just to fellow believers. This means we are not to seek revenge against those who treat us unfairly, nor are we to be too vocal about our personal rights.)

(Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable – if anything is excellent or praiseworthy – think about such things. – Philippians 4.8. What we put into our minds determines what comes out in our words and actions. Paul tells us to program our minds with thoughts that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and praiseworthy. Do you have problems with impure thoughts and daydreams? Examine what you are putting into your mind through television, books, conversations, films, and magazines. Replace harmful input with wholesome material. Above all, read God [Wall]’s word and pray. Ask God [Wall] to help you focus your mind on what is good and pure. It takes practice, but it can be done.)

(Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me – put it into practice. And the God [Wall] of peace will be with you. – Philippians 4.9. It’s not enough to hear or read the word of God [Wall], or even to know it well. We must also put it into practice. How easy it is to listen to a sermon and forget what the preacher said. How easy it is to read the Bibles and not think about how to live differently. How easy it is to debate what a passage means and not live out that meaning. Exposure to God [Wall]’s word is not enough. It must lead to obedience.)

Household idols:

When Laban had gone to shear his sheep, Rachel stole her father’s household gods. – Genesis 31:19

Many people kept small wooden or metal idols (“gods”) in their homes. These idols were called teraphim, and they were thought to protect the home and offer advice in times of need. They had legal significance as well, for when they were passed on to an heir, the person who received them could rightfully claim the greatest part of the family inheritance. No wonder Laban was concerned when he realised his idols were missing (31:30). Most likely Rachel stole her father’s idols because she was afraid Laban would consult them and learn where she and Jacob had gone, or perhaps she wanted to claim the family inheritance.

Purpose & principles of:

Be sure to set aside a tenth of all that your fields produce each year. Eat the tithe of your grain, new wine and oil, and the firstborn of your herds and flocks in the presence of the LORD your God at the place he will choose as a dwelling for his Name, so that you may learn to revere the LORD your God always. – Deuteronomy 14.22-23

The Bibles makes the purpose of tithing very clear – to put God [Wall] first in our lives. We are to give God [Wall] the first and best of what we earn. For example, what we do first with our money shows what we value most. Giving the first part of our pay cheque to God [Wall] immediately focuses our attention on him. It also reminds us that all we have belongs to him. A habit of regular tithing can keep God [Wall] at the top of our priority list and give us a proper perspective on everything we have.

(Do not eat anything you find already dead. You may give it to an alien living in any of your towns, and he may eat it, or you may sell it to a foreigner. But you are a people holy to the LORD your God [Wall]. Do no cook a young goat in its mother’s milk. – Deuteronomy 14.21. This prohibition against cooking a young goat in its mother’s mile may reflect a Canaanite fertility rite. Or it may just mean that the Israelites were not to take what was intended to promote life and use it to kill or destroy life. This commandment is also given in Exodus 23:19.)

(At the end of every three years, bring all the tithes of that year’s produce and store it in your towns, so that the Levites (who have no allotment or inheritance of their own) and the aliens, the fatherless and the widows who live in your towns may come and eat and be satisfied, and so that the LORD your God [Wall] may bless you in all the work of your hands. – Deuteronomy 14.28, 29. The Bible supports an organised system of caring for the poor. God [Wall] told his people to use their tithe every third year for those who were helpless, hungry, or poor. These regulations were designed to prevent the country from sinking under crushing poverty and oppression. It was everyone’s responsibility to care for those less fortunate. Families were to help other family members, and towns were to help members of their community. National laws protected the rights of the poor, but helping the poor was also an active part of religious life. God [Wall] counts on believers to provide for the needy, and we should use what God [Wall] has given us to aid those less fortunate. Look beyond your regular giving and think of ways to help the needy. This will help you show your regard for God [Wall] as Creator of all people, share God’s goodness with others, and draw them to him. It is a practical and essential way to make faith work in everyday life.)

And here is my advice about what is best for you in this matter. Last year you were the first not only to give but also to have the desire to do so. Now finish the work, so that your eager willingness to do it may be matched by your completion of it, according to your means. For if the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what he does not have. Our desire is not that others might be relieved while you are hard pressed, but that there might be equality. At the present time your plenty will supply what they need, so that in turn their plenty will supply what you need. Then there will be equality, as it is written: “He who gathered much did not have too much, and he who gathered little did not have too little. – 2 Corinthians 8.10-15.

The Corinthian Church had money, and apparently they had planned to collect money for the Jerusalem churches a year previously (see also 9.2). Paul challenges them to act on their plans. Four principles of giving emerge here: (1) your willingness to give cheerfully is more important than the amount you give; (2) you should strive to fulfil your financial commitments; (3) if you give to others in need, they will, in turn, help you when you are in need; (4) you should give as a response to Christ, not for anything you can get out of it. How you give reflects your devotion to Christ.

To be given first:

If you take your neighbour’s cloak as a pledge, return it to him by sunset, – Exodus 22.26

Why did the law insist on returning a person’s cloak by evening? The cloak was one of an Israelite’s most valuable possessions. Making clothing was difficult and time-consuming. As a result, cloaks were expensive, and most people owned only one. The cloak was used as a blanket, a sack to carry things in, a place to sit, a pledge for a debt, and, of course, clothing.

(“Do not take advantage of a widow or an orphan. If you do and they cry out to me, I will certainly hear their cry. My anger will be aroused, and I will kill you with the sword; your wives will become widows and your children fatherless. “If you lend money to one of my people among you who is needy, do not be like a money-lender; charge him no interest. If you take your neighbour’s cloak as a pledge, return it to him by sunset, because his cloak is the only covering he has for his body. What else will he sleep in? When he cries out to me, I will hear, for I am compassionate. – Exodus 22.22-27. The Hebrew law code is noted for its fairness and social responsibility towards the poor. God [Wall] insisted that the poor and powerless be well treated and given the chance to restore their fortunes. We should reflect God’s concern for the poor by helping those less fortunate than ourselves.)

(“Do not hold back offerings from your granaries or your vats. “You must give me the firstborn of your sons. – Exodus 22.29. The Israelites were to be prompt in giving God [Wall] their offerings. The first of the harvest was to be dedicated to him. Since God [Wall] doesn’t send reminders, it is easy to take care of other financial responsibilities while letting our gifts to him slide. Giving to God [Wall] first out of what he has allowed you to have demonstrates that he has first priority in your life.)

Supports community’s spiritual needs:

The LORD said to Moses, “Speak to the Levites and say to them: ‘When you receive from the Israelites the tithe I give you as your inheritance, you must present a tenth of that tithe as the LORD’s offering. – Numbers 18.25-26

Even the Levites, who were ministers, had to tithe to support the Lord’s work. No-one was exempt from returning to God [Wall] a portion of what was received. Though the Levites owned no land and operated no great enterprises, they were to treat their income the same as everyone else did by giving a portion to care for the needs of the other Levites and of the tabernacle. The tithing principle is still relevant. God [Wall] expects all his followers to supply the material needs of those who devote themselves to meeting the spiritual needs of the community of faith.

(The staff belonging to the man I choose will sprout, and I will rid myself of this constant grumbling against you by the Israelites.” The LORD said to Moses, “Put back Aaron’s staff in front of the Testimony, to be kept as a sign to the rebellious. This will put an end to their grumbling against me, so that they will not die.” – Numbers 17.5, 10. After witnessing spectacular miracles, seeing the Egyptians punished by the plagues, and experiencing the actual presence of God [Wall], the Israelites still complained and rebelled. We wonder how they could be so blind and ignorant, and yet we often repeat this same pattern. We have centuries of evidence, the Bibles in many translations, and the convincing results of archaeological and historical studies. But people today continue to disobey God [Wall] and go their own way. Like the Israelites, we are more concerned about our physical condition than our spiritual condition. We can escape this pattern that we have been given. Has God [Wall] guided and protected you? Has he answered your prayers? Do you know people who have experienced remarkable blessings and healings? Do you know Bible stories about the way God has led his people? Focus your thoughts on what God [Wall] has done, and rebellion will become unthinkable.)

(“A man who is clean shall gather up the ashes of the heifer and put them in a ceremonially clean place outside the camp. They shall be kept by the Israelite community for use in the water of cleansing; it is for purification from sin. The man who gathers up the ashes of the heifer must also wash his clothes, and he too will be unclean till evening. This will be a lasting ordinance both for the Israelites and for the aliens living among them. – Numbers 19.9, 10. What is the significance of the red heifer’s ashes? When a person touches a dead body, he was considered unclean (i.e., unable to approach God [Wall] in worship). This ritual purified the unclean person so that once again he could offer sacrifices and worship God [Wall]. Death was the strongest of defilements because it was the final result of sin. Thus a special sacrifice – a red heifer – was required. It had to be offered by someone who was not unclean. When it had been burned on the altar, its ashes were used to purify water for ceremonial cleanings – not so much literally as symbolically. The unclean person then washed himself, and often his clothes and belongings, with this purified water as an act of becoming clean again.)

Give in proportion to what you have been given:

Three times a year all your men must appear before the LORD your God [Wall] at the place he will choose: at the Feast of Unleavened Bread, the Feast of Weeks and the Feast of Tabernacles. No man should appear before the LORD empty-handed: Each of you must bring a gift in proportion to the way the LORD your God has blessed you. – Deuteronomy 16.16-17

Three times a year every male was to make a journey to the sanctuary in the city that would be designated as Israel’s religious capital. At these festivals, each participant was encouraged to give what he could in proportion to what God [Wall] had given him. God [Wall] does not expect us to give more than we can, but we will be blessed when we give cheerfully. For some, 10 per cent may be a burden. For most of us, that would be far too little. Look at what you have and then give in proportion to what you have been given.

(If a fellow Hebrew, a man or woman, sells himself to you and serves you six years, in the seventh year you must let him go free. And when you release him, do not send him away empty-handed. Supply him liberally from your flock, your threshing-floor and your winepress. Give to him as the LORD your God [Wall] has blessed you. Remember that you were slaves in Egypt and the LORD your God [Wall] redeemed you. That is why I give you this command today. – Deuteronomy 15.12-15. The Israelites were to release their servants after six years, sending them away with enough food so that they would be amply supplied until their needs could be met by some other means. This humanitarian act recognised that God [Wall] created each person with dignity and worth. It also reminded the Israelites that they, too, had once been slave sin Egypt, and that their present freedom was a gift from God [Wall]. We do not have servants such as these today, but God’s instructions still apply to us: We must still be sure to treat our employees with respect and economic fairness.)

(Appoint judges and officials for each of your tribes in every town the LORD your God [Wall] is giving you, and they shall judge the people fairly. Do not pervert justice or show partiality. Do not accept a bribe, for a bribe blinds the eyes of the wise and twists the words of the righteous. Follow justice and justice alone, so that you may live and possess the land the LORD your God is giving you. – Deuteronomy 16.18-20. These verses anticipated a great problem the Israelites would face when they arrived in the promised land. Although they had Joshua as their national leader, they failed to complete the task and choose other spiritual leaders who would lead the tribes, districts, and cities with justice and God’s wisdom. Because they did not appoint wise judges and faithful administrators, rebellion and injustice plagued their communities. It is a serious responsibility to appoint or elect wise and just officials. In your sphere of influence – home, church, school, job – are you ensuring that justice and godliness prevail? Failing to choose leaders who uphold justice can lead to much trouble, as Israel would discover.)

Hezekiah’ reinstated practice of:

He ordered the people living in Jerusalem to give the portion due to the priests and Levites so that they could devote themselves to the Law of the LORD. As soon as the order went out, the Israelites generously gave the firstfruits of their grain, new wine, oil and honey and all that the fields produced. They brought a great amount, a tithe of everything. The men of Israel and Judah who lived in the towns of Judah also brought a tithe of their herds and flocks and a tithe of the holy things dedicated to the LORD their God [Wall], and they piled them in heaps. They began doing this in the third month and finished in the seventh month. When Hezekiah and his officials came and saw the heaps, they praised the LORD and blessed his people Israel. – 2 Chronicles 31.4-8

Hezekiah reinstated the practice of tithing – giving a tenth of one’s income to the priests and Levites so they could be free to serve God [Wall] and minister to the people. The people responded immediately and generously. God’s work need the support of God’s people. Does God [Wall] receive a regular percentage of your income? Generosity makes our giving delightful to us and to God [Wall] (2 Corinthians 8; 9). How different the church would be today if all believers consistently followed this pattern.

(Hezekiah assigned the priests and Levites to divisions – each of them according to their duties as priests or Levites – to offer burnt offerings and fellowship offerings, to minister, to give thanks and to sing praises at the gates of the LORD’s dwelling. The king contributed from his own possessions for the morning and evening burnt offerings and for the burnt offerings on the Sabbaths, New Moons and appointed feasts as written in the Law of the LORD. He ordered the people living in Jerusalem to give the portion due to the priests and Levites so that they could devote themselves to the Law of the LORD. As soon as the order went out, the Israelites generously gave the firstfruits of their grain, new wine, oil and honey and all that the fields produced. They brought a great amount, a tithe of everything. The men of Israel and Judah who lived in the towns of Judah also brought a tithe of their herds and flocks and a tithe of the holy things dedicated to the LORD their God [Wall], and they piled them in heaps. They began doing this in the third month and finished in the seventh month. When Hezekiah and his officials came and saw the heaps, they praised the LORD and blessed his people Israel. Hezekiah asked the priests and Levites about the heaps; and Azariah the chief priest, from the family of Zadok, answered, “Since the people began to bring their contributions to the temple of the LORD, we have had enough to eat and plenty to spare, because the LORD has blessed his people, and this great amount is left over.” Hezekiah gave orders to prepare storerooms in the temple of the LORD, and this was done. Then they faithfully brought in the contributions, tithes and dedicated gifts. Conaniah, a Levite, was in charge of these things, and his brother Shimei was next in rank. Jehiel, Azaziah, Nahath, Asahel, Jerimoth, Jozabad, Eliel, Ismakiah, Mahath and Benaiah were supervisors under Conaniah and Shimei his brother, by appointment of King Hezekiah and Azariah the official in charge of the temple of God. Kore son of Imnah the Levite, keeper of the East Gate, was in charge of the freewill offerings given to God, distributing the contributions made to the LORD and also the consecrated gifts. Eden, Miniamin, Jeshua, Shemaiah, Amariah and Shecaniah assisted him faithfully in the towns of the priests, distributing to their fellow priests according to their divisions, old and young alike. In addition, they distributed to the males three years old or more whose names were in the genealogical records – all who would enter the temple of the LORD to perform the daily duties of their various tasks, according to their responsibilities and their divisions. And they distributed to the priests enrolled by their families in the genealogical records and likewise to the Levites twenty years old or more, according to their responsibilities and their divisions. They included all the little ones, the wives, and the sons and daughters of the whole community listed in these genealogical records. For they were faithful in consecrating themselves. As for the priests, the descendants of Aaron, who lived on the farm lands around their towns or in any other towns, men were designated by name to distribute portions to every male among them and to all who were recorded in the genealogies of the Levites. This is what Hezekiah did throughout Judah, doing what was good and right and faithful before the LORD his God [Wall]. In everything that he undertook in the service of God’s temple and in obedience to the law and the commands, he sought his God [Wall] and worked wholeheartedly. And so he prospered. – 2 Chronicles 31:2-21. The priests had not been supported by the government during the evil kings’ reigns. Now that the temple was repaired, Hezekiah organised the priests and resumed the work of the temple according to a plan original set up by David (1 Chronicles 23.6-23; 24:2-19).)

(Because Hezekiah did “what was good and right and faithful before the LORD,” he led the people of Judah in spiritual renewal. His actions serve as a model of renewal for us: (1) he remembered God’s compassion (30.9); (2) he kept going despite ridicule (30.10); (3) he aggressively removed evil influences from his life (30.14, 31.1); (4) he interceded for the people, asking for the Lord’s pardon (30.15-20); (5) he was open to spontaneity in worship (30.23); (6) he contributed generously to God’s work (31:3). If any of these are lacking in your life, consider how they might apply, and renew your commitment to God [Wall].)

Giving sacrificially:

Out of the most severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. For I testify that they give as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own, they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the saints. And they did not do as we expected, but they gave themselves first to the Lord and then to us in keeping with God’s will. – 2 Corinthians 8.2-5

During his third missionary journey, Paul had collected money for the impoverished believers in Jerusalem. The Churches in Macedonia – Philippi, Thessalonica, and Berea – had given money even though they were poor, and they had given more than Paul expected. This was sacrificial giving – they were poor themselves, but they wanted to help. The point of giving is not so much the amount we give, but why and how we give. God [Wall] does not want gifts given grudgingly. Instead, he wants us to give as these Churches did – out of dedication to Christ, love for fellow believers, the joy of helping those in need, as well as the fact that it was simply the good and right thing to do. How well does your giving measure up to the standards set by the Macedonian Churches?

The kingdom of God [Wall] spread through believers’ concern and eagerness to help others. Here we see several Churches joining to help others beyond their own circle of friends and their own city [Seat]. Explore ways that you might link up with a ministry outside your city [Seat], either through your church or through a Christian organisation. By joining with other believers to do God’s work, you increase Christian unity and help the kingdom grow.

(And now, brothers, we want you to know about the grace that God [Wall] has given the Macedonian churches. – 2 Corinthians 8.1. Paul, writing from Macedonia, hoped that news of the generosity of these Churches would encourage the Corinthian believers and motivate them to solve their problems and unite in fellowship.)

A natural response of love:

But just as you excel in everything – in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in your love for us – see that you also excel in this grace of giving. I am not commanding you, but I want to test the sincerity of your love by comparing it with the earnestness of others. – 1 Corinthians 8.7-8

The Corinthian believers excelled in everything – they had faith, good preaching (speech), much knowledge, much earnestness, much love. Paul wanted them to also be leaders in giving. Giving is a natural response of love. Paul did not order the Corinthians to give, but he encouraged them to prove that their love was sincere. When you love someone, you want to give him or her your time and attention and to provide for his or her needs. If you refuse to help, your love is not as genuine as you say.

(For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich. – 2 Corinthians 8.9. There is no evidence that Jesus was any poorer than most first-century Palestinians; rather, Jesus became poor by giving up his rights as God [Wall] and becoming human. In his incarnation God [Wall] voluntarily became man – – the wholly human person, Jesus of Nazareth. As a man, Jesus was subject to place, time, and other human limitations. He did not give up his eternal power when he became human, but he did set aside his glory and his rights (see the note on Philippians 2.5-7). In response to the Father’s will, he limited his power and knowledge. Christ became “poor” when he became human, because he set aside so much. Yet by doing so, he made us “rich” because we received salvation and eternal life. What made Jesus’ humanity unique was his freedom from sin. In his full humanity, we can see everything about God’s character that can be conveyed in human terms. The incarnation is explained further in these Bible passages: John 1:1-14; Romans 1:2-5; Philippians 2:6-11; 1 Timothy 3:16; Hebrews 2:14; 1 John 1:1-3.)

Deciding how much to give:

For if the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what he does not have. – 2 Corinthians 8.12

How do you decide how much to give? What about differences in the financial resources Christians have? Paul gives the Corinthian church several principles to follow: (1) each person should follow through on previous promises (8.10, 11; 9:3); (2) each person should give as much as he or she is able (8.12; 9:6); (3) each person must make up his or her own mind how much to give (9.7); and (4) each person should give in proportion to what God [Wall] has given him or her (9.10). God [Wall] gives us so that we can give to others.

Balancing tithe & other responsibilities:

For if the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what he does not have. – 2 Corinthians 8.12

Paul says that we should give [Game me to wear, like cream] of what we have, not what we don’t have. Sacrificial giving must be responsible. Paul wants believers to give generously, but not to the extent that those who depend on the givers (their families, for example) must go without having their basic needs. Give until it hurts, but don’t give so that it hurts your family and/or relatives who need your financial support.

(And we are sending along with him the brother who is praised by all the churches for his service to the gospel. What is more, he was chosen by the Churches to accompany us as we carry the offering, which we administer in order to honour the Lord himself and to show our eagerness to help. We want to avoid any criticism of the way we administer this liberal gift. For we are taking pains to do what is right, not only in the eyes of the Lord but also in the eyes of men. – 1 Corinthians 8.18-21. Another “brother” was travelling with Paul and Titus, a man who was elected by the churches to take the large financial gift to Jerusalem. Paul explained that by travelling together there could be no suspicion and people would know that the gift was being handled honestly. The Church did not need to worry that the bearers of the collection would misuse the money.)

Lack of faith in:

Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God [Wall] loves a cheerful giver. And God [Wall] is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. – 2 Corinthians 9.6-8

People may hesitate to give generously to God [Wall] if they worry about having enough money left over to meet their own needs. Paul assured the Corinthians that God [Wall] was able to meet their needs. The person who gives only a little will receive only a little in return. Don’t let a lack of faith keep you from giving freely and generously.

Our attitude when we give is more important than the amount we give. We don’t have to be embarrassed if we can give only a small gift. God [Wall] is concerned about how we give from the resources we have (see Mark 12.41-44). According to that standard, the giving of the Macedonian Churches would be difficult to match (8.3).

(But I am sending the brothers in order that our boasting about you in this matter should not prove hollow, but that you may be ready, as I said you would be. For if any Macedonians come with me and find you unprepared, we – not to say anything about you – would be ashamed of having been so confident. So I thought it necessary to urge the brothers to visit you in advance and finish the arrangements for the generous gift you had promised. Then it will be ready as a generous gift, not as one grudgingly given. – 2 Corinthians 9.3-5. Paul reminded the Corinthians to fulfil the commitment that they had already made (see also 8.10-12). They had said that they would collect a financial gift to send to the Church in Jerusalem. Paul was sending a few men ahead of him to make sure their gift was ready, so it would be a real gift and not look like people had to give under pressure at the last minute (“ready as a generous gift, not as one grudgingly given”). He was holding them accountable to keep their promise, so that neither Paul nor the Corinthians would be embarrassed.)

Other benefits of:

This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of God’s people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God [Wall]. Because of the service by which you have proved yourselves, men will praise God [Wall] for the obedience that accompanies your confession of the gospel of Christ, and for your generosity in sharing with them and with everyone else. And in their prayers for you their hearts will go out to you, because of the surpassing grace God [Wall] has given you. Thanks be to God [Wall] for his indescribable gift. – 2 Corinthians 9.12-15

Paul emphasises the spiritual rewards for those who give generously to God’s work. We should not expect to become wealthy through giving. Those who receive your gifts will be helped, will praise God [Wall], and will pray for you. As you bless others you will be blessed.

(Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. – 2 Corinthians 9.10. God [Wall] gives us resources to use and invest for him. Paul uses the illustration of seed to explain that the resources God [Wall] gives us are not to be hidden, foolishly devoured, or thrown away. Instead, they should be cultivated in order to produce more crops. When we invest what God [Wall] has given us in his work, he will provide us with even more to give in his service.)

(By the meekness and gentleness of Christ, I appeal to you – I, Paul, who am “timid” when face to face with you, but “bold” when away! I beg you that when I come I may not have to be as bold as I expect to be towards some people who think that we live by the standards of the world. – 2 Corinthians 10.1, 2. Paul’s opponents questioned his authority. From 7:8-16 we know that the majority of Corinthian believers sided with Paul. However, a minority continued to slander him, saying that he was bold in his letters but had no authority in person. Chapters 10-13 are Paul’s responses to this charge.)

Churches must tithe too:

Give [Game me to wear, like cream] proper recognition to those widows who are really in need. – 1 Timothy 5.3

Paul wanted Christian families to be as self-supporting as possible. He insisted that children and grandchildren take care of the widows in their families (5:4); he suggested that younger widows remarry and start new families (5.14); and he ordered the Church not to support lazy members who refused to work (2 Thessalonians 3.10). Nevertheless, when necessary, the believers pooled their resources (Acts 2.44-47); they gave generously to help disaster-ridden Churches (1 Corinthians 16.1-4); and they took care of a large number of widows (Acts 6.1-6). The Church has always had limited resources, and it has always had to balance financial responsibility with generosity. It only makes sense for members to work as hard as they can and to be as independent as possible, so they can adequately care for themselves and for less fortunate members. When Church members are both responsible and generous, everyone’s needs will be met.

(Give proper recognition to those widows who are really in need. But if a widow has children or grandchildren, these should learn first of all to put their religion into practice by caring for their own family and so repaying their parents and grandparents, for this is pleasing to God [Wall]. The widow who is really in need and left all alone puts her hope in God [Wall] and continues night and day to pray and to ask God [Wall] for help. – 1 Timothy 5.2-5. Because there were no pensions, no social security, no life insurance, and few honourable jobs for women, widows were usually unable to support themselves. The responsibility for caring for the helpless naturally falls first on their families, the people whose lives are most closely linked with theirs. Paul stresses the importance of families caring for the needs of widows, and not leaving it to the church – so the Church can care for those widows who have no families. A widow who had no children or other family members to support her was doomed to poverty. From the beginning, the church took care of its widows, who in turn gave valuable service to the Church.)

(The Church should support those who have no families and should also help the elderly, young, disabled, ill, or poverty-stricken with their emotional and spiritual needs. Often families who are caring for their own helpless members have heavy burdens. They may need extra money, a listening ear, a helping hand, or a world of encouragement. Interestingly, those who are helped often turn around and help others, turning the Church into more of a caring community. Don’t wait for people to ask. Take the initiative and look for ways to serve them.)

(..older women as mothers, and younger women as sisters, with absolute purity. – 1 Timothy 5.2. Men in the ministry can avoid improper attitudes towards women by treating them as family members. If men see women as fellow members in God’s family, they will protect them and help them grow spiritually.)

Samson wasted life, Samson’s PROFILE (Page 401)

A sign of laziness: Proverbs 12.27

The diligent make wise use of their possessions and resources; the lazy waste them. Waste has become a way of life for many who live in a land of plenty. Waste is poor stewardship. Make good use of everything God [Wall] has given you, and prize it.

EXTRA:

(Proverbs 12.23. Prudent people have a quiet confidence. Insecure or uncertain people feel the need to prove themselves, but prudent people don’t have to prove anything. They know they are capable, so they can get on with their work. Beware of showing off. If you are modest, people may not notice you at first, but they will respect you later.)

(Proverbs 12.28. For many, death is a darkened door at the end of life, a passageway to an unknown and feared destiny. But for God’s [Wall’s] people, death is a bright pathway to a new and better life. So why do we fear death? Is it because of the pain we expect, the separation from loved ones, its surprise? God [Wall] can help us deal with those fears. He has shown us that death is not final, but is just another step in the eternal life we received when we followed him.)