The “family” of humankind:

“ When Adam had lived 130 years, he had a son in his own likeness, in his own image; and he named him Seth.  After Seth was born, Adam lived 800 years and had other sons and daughters.  Altogether, Adam lived 930 years, and then he died.  –  Genesis 5.3-5

All human beings are related, going back to Adam and Eve. Mankind is a family that shares one flesh and blood.  Remember this when prejudice enters your mind or hatred invades your feelings.  Each person is a value and unique creation of God.

Children follow parent’s example:

When the men of that placed asked him about his wife, he said, “She is my sister,” because he was afraid to say, “She is my wife.” He thought, “The men of this place might kill me on account of Rebekah, because she is beautiful.”

When Isaac had been there a long time, Abimelech king of the Philistines looked down from a window and saw Isaac caressing his wife Rebekah. So Abimelech summoned Isaac and said, “She is really your wife!  Why did you say, ‘She is my sister’?”

Isaac answered him, “Because I thought I might lose my life on account of her.”

Then Abimelech said, “What is this you have done to us? One of the men might well have slept with your wife, and you would have brought guilt upon us.”

So Abimelech gave orders to all the people: “Anyone who molests this man or his wife shall surely be put to death.” –  Genesis 26.7-11

Isaac was afraid that the men in Gerar would kill him to get his beautiful wife, Rebekah. She he lied, claiming that Rebekah was his sister.  Where did he learn that trick? He may have known about the actions of his father, Abraham (see 12.10-14 and 20.1-4).  Parents help shape the world’s future by the way they shape their children’s values.  The first step towards helping children live rightly is for the parents to live rightly.  Your actions are often copied by those closest to you.  What kind of example are you setting for your children?

Ceremony of passing on family blessing:

Isaac trembled violently and said, “Who was it, then, that hunted game and brought it to me? I ate it just before you came and I blessed him – and indeed he will be blessed!”

When Esau heard his father’s words, he burst out with a loud and bitter cry and said to his father, “Bless me – me too, my father!”

But he said, “Your brother came deceitfully and took your blessing.”

Esau said, “Isn’t he rightly named Jacob? He has deceived me these two times: He took my birthright, and now he’s taken my blessing!”  Then he asked, “Haven’t you reserved any blessing for me?”

Isaac answered Esau, “I have made him lord over you and have made all his relatives his servants, and I have sustained him with grain and new wine. So what can I possibly do for you, my son?”  –  Genesis 27.33-37

Before the father died, he performed a ceremony of blessing, in which he officially handed over the birthright to the rightful heir. Although the firstborn son was entitled to the birthright, it was not actually his until the blessing was pronounced.  Before the blessing was given, the father could take the birthright away from the oldest son and give it to a more deserving son.  But after the blessing was given, the birthright could no longer be taken away.  This is why fathers usually waited until late in life to pronounce the blessing.  Although Jacob had been given the birthright by his older brothers years before, he still needed his father’s blessing to make it binding.

Sharing spiritual experiences in:

“ that you may tell your children and grandchildren how I dealt harshly with the Egyptians and how I performed my signs among them, and that you may know that I am the LORD.”   –  Exodus 10.2

God told Moses that his miraculous experience with Pharaoh should be retold to his descendants. What stories Moses had to tell Living out one of the greatest dramas in biblical history, he witnessed events few people would ever see.  It is important to tell our children about God’s work in our past and to help them see what he is doing right now.  What are the turning points in your life where God intervened?  What is God doing for you now?  Your stories will form the foundations of your children’s belief in God.

“ He said to the Israelites, “In the future when your descendants ask their fathers, ‘What do these stones mean?’ tell them, ‘Israel crossed the Jordan on dry ground.’  For the LORD your God dried up the Jordan before you until you had crossed over.  The LORD your God did to the Jordan just what he had done to the Red Sea when he dried it up before us until we had crossed over.  He did this so that all the peoples of the earth might know that the hand of the LORD is powerful and so that you might always fear the LORD your God.”  –  Joshua 4.21-24

The memorial of 12 stones was to be a constant reminder of the day the Israelites crossed the Jordan River on dry ground. Their children would see the stones, hear the story, and learn about God.  Do you have traditions – special dates or special places – help your children learn about God’s work in your life?  Do you take time to tell them what God has done for you – forgiving and saving you, answering your prayers, supplying your needs?  Retelling your story will help keep memories of God’s faithfulness alive in your family.

Sin’s consequences passed to members of:

“ maintaining love to thousands, and forgiving wickedness, rebellion and sin. Yet he does not leave the guilty unpunished; he punishes the children and their children for the sin of the fathers to the third and fourth generation.”  –  Exodus 34.7

Why would sins affect grandchildren and great-grandchildren? This is no arbitrary punishment.  Children still suffer for the sins of their parents.  Consider child abuse or alcoholism, for example.  While these sins are obvious, sins like selfishness and greed can be passed on as well.  The dire consequences of sin are not limited to the individual family member.  Be careful not to treat sin casually, but repent and turn from it.  The sin may cause you little pain now, but it could sting in the most tender area of your life – your children and grandchildren.

Israelite festivals designed for:

“ The LORD said to Moses, “Say to the Israelites: ‘On the fifteenth day of the seventh month the LORD’S Feast of Tabernacles begins, and it lasts for seven days. The first day is a sacred assembly; do no regular work.  For seven days present offerings made to the LORD by fire, and on the eighth day hold a sacred assembly and present an offering made to the LORD by fire.  It is the closing assembly; do no regular work.

(“ ‘These are the LORD’S appointed feasts, which you are to proclaim as sacred assemblies for bringing offerings made to the LORD by fire – the burnt offerings and grain offerings, sacrifices and drink offerings required for each day. These offerings are in addition to those for the LORD’S Sabbaths and in addition to your gifts and whatever you have vowed and all the freewill offerings you give to the LORD.)

“ ‘So beginning with the fifteenth day of the seventh month, after you have gathered the crops of the land, celebrate the festival to the LORD for seven days; the first day is a of rest, and the eighth day also is a day of rest. On the first day you are to take choice fruit from the trees, and palm fronds, leafy branches and poplars, and rejoice before the LORD your God for seven days.  Celebrate this as a festival to the LORD for seven days each year.  This is to be a lasting ordinance for the generations to come; celebrate it in the seventh month.  Live in booths for seven days: All native-born Israelites are to live in booths so that your descendants will know that I made the Israelites live in booths when I brought them out of Egypt.  I am the LORD your God.’ “  – Leviticus 23.33-43

The Feast of Tabernacles, also called the Feast of Ingathering, was a special celebration involving the whole family (see 23.34; Exodus 23.16; Deuteronomy 16.13). Like Passover, this feast taught family members of all ages about God’s nature and what he had done for them and was a time of renewed commitment to God.  Our families also need rituals of celebration to renew our faith and to pass it to our children.  In addition to Christmas and Easter, we should select other special days to commemorate God’s goodness.

Hebrews’ emphasis on family worship:

“ And there rejoice before the LORD your God, you, your sons and daughters, your menservants and maidservants, and the Levites from your towns, who have no allotment or inheritance of their own.

Instead, you are to eat them in the presence of the LORD your God at the place the YOU’RE YOUR God will choose – you, your sons and daughters, your menservants and maidservants, and the Levites from your towns – and you are to rejoice before the LORD your God in everything you put your hand to. –  Deuteronomy 12.12, 18

The Hebrews placed great emphasis on family worship. Whether offering a sacrifice or attending a great feast, the family was often together.  This gave the children a healthy attitude towards worship, and it put extra meaning into it for the adults.  Watching a family member confess his or her sin was just as important as celebrating a great holiday together.  Although there are appropriate times to separate people by ages, some of the most meaningful worship can be experienced only when shared by old and young.

Parents’ immorality can destroy a family:

“ His concubine, who lived in Shechem, also bore him a son, whom he named Abimelech. –  Judges 8.31

This relationship between Gideon and a concubine produced a son who tore apart Gideon’s family and caused tragedy for the nation.    Gideon’s story illustrates the fact that heroes in battle are not always heroes in daily life.  Gideon led the nation but could not lead his family.  No matter who you are, moral laxness will cause problems.  Just because you have won a single battle with temptation does not mean you will automatically win the next one.  We need to be constantly watchful against temptation.  Sometimes Satan’s [drunked layabout] strongest attacks come after a victory.

David failed to punish his son’s wrongdoing:

“When King David heard all this, he was furious. Absalom never said a word to Amnon, either good or bad; he hated Amnon because he had disgraced his sister Tamar.

Two years later, when Absalom’s sheep-shearers were at Baal Hazor near the border of Ephraim, he invited all the king’s sons to come there. Absalom went to the king and said, “Your servant has had shearers come.  Will the king and his officials please join me?”  –  2 Samuel 13.21-24

David was angry with Amnon for raping Tamar, but David did not punish him. David probably hesitated because (1) he didn’t want to cross Amnon, who was his firstborn son (1 Chronicles 3.1) and therefore next in line to be king, and (2) David was guilty of a similar sin himself in his adultery with Bathsheba.  While David was unsurpassed as a king and military leader, he lacked skill and sensitivity as a husband and father.

Don’t take its spiritual well-being for granted:

“ (His father had never interfered with him by asking, “Why do you behave as you do?” He was also very handsome and was born next after Absalom.)  –  1 Kings 1.6

God-fearing people like David and Samuel were used by God to lead nations, but nevertheless they had problems in family relationships. God-fearing leaders cannot take for granted the spiritual well-being of their children.  They are used to having others follow their order, but they cannot expect their children to manufacture upon request.  Moral and spiritual character takes years to build, and it requires constant attention and patient discipline.

David served God well as a king, but as a parent he often failed both God and his children. Don’t let your service to God even in leadership positions take up so much of your time and energy that you neglect your other God-given responsibilities.

Nation’s strength & family strength-related:

“ King Solomon conscripted labourers from all Israel – thirty thousand men. He sent them off to Lebanon in shifts of ten thousand a month, so that they spent one month in Lebanon and two months at home.  Adoniram was in charge of the forced labour.  –  1 Kings 5.13-14

Solomon drafted three times the number of workers needed for the temple project and then arranged their schedules so they didn’t have to be away from home for long periods of time. This showed his concern for the welfare of his workers and the importance he placed on family life.  The strength of a nation in direct proportion to the strengths of its families.  Solomon wisely recognised that family should always be a top priority.  As you structure your own work or arrange the schedule of others, watch for the impact of your plans on families.

Helping yours to follow God:

“ Blessed are all who fear the LORD,

who walk in his ways. –  Psalm 128:1ff

The psalmist wrote that a good family life is a reward for following God. The values outlined in God’s word include love, service, honesty, integrity, and prayer.  These help all relationships, and they are especially vital to home life.  Is your home life heavenly or hectic?  Reading and obeying God’s word is a good place to start to make your family all that it should be.

One of God’s greatest resources:

“ He who brings trouble on his family will inherit only wind,

and the fool will be servant to the wise. –  Proverb 11.29

One of the greatest resources God gives us is the family. Families provide acceptance, encouragement, guidance, and counsel.  Bringing trouble on your family – whether through anger or through an exaggerated desire for independence – is foolish because you cut yourself off from all they provide.  In your family, strive for healing, communication, and understanding.

Our spiritual family:

“ While Jesus was still talking to the crowd, his mother and brothers stood outside, wanting to speak to him.  Some told him, “Your mother and brothers are standing outside, wanting to speak to you.”

He replied to him, “Who is my mother, and who are my brothers?” Pointing to his disciples, he said, “Where are my mother and my brothers.  For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother.  –  Matthew 12.46-50

Jesus was not denying his responsibility to his earthly family. On the contrary, he criticised the religious leaders for not following the Old Testament command to honour their parents (15.1-9).  He provided for his mother’s security as he hung on the cross (John 19.25-27).  His mother and brothers were present in the upper room at Pentecost (Acts 1.14).  Instead Jesus was pointing out that spiritual relationships are as binding as physical ones, and he was paving the way for a new community of believers (the universal church), our spiritual family.

“Who are my mother and my brothers?” he asked.

Then he looked at those seated in a circle around him and said, “Here are my mother and my brothers! Whoever does God’s will is my brother and sister and mother.  –  Mark  3.33-35

God’s family is accepting and doesn’t exclude anyone. Although Jesus cared for his mother and brothers, he also cared for all those who loved him.  Jesus did not show partiality, he allowed everyone the privilege of obeying God and becoming part of his family.  In our increasing computerised, impersonal world, warm relationships among members of God’s family take on major importance.  The church can give the loving, personalised care that many people find nowhere else.

“ no longer a slave, but better than a slave, as a dear brother.  He is very dear to me but even dearer to you, both as a man and as a brother in the Lord.  –  Philemon 16

What a difference Onesimus’ status as a Christian made in his relationship to Philemon. He was no longer merely a slave, but he was also a brother.  That meant that both Oneismus and Philemon were members of God’s family – equals in Christ.  A Christian’s status as a member of God’s family transcends all other distinctions among believers.  Do you look down on any fellow Christians?  Remember, they are your equals before Christ (Galatians 3.28).  How you treat your brothes and sisters in Christ’s family reflects your true Christian commitment.

Jesus’ family missed point of his ministry:

“ When his family heard about this, they went to take charge of him, for they said, “He is out of his mind.” –  Mark 3.21

With the crowds pressing in on him, Jesus didn’t even take time to eat.  Because of this, his friends and family came to take charge of him (3.31, 32), thinking he had gone “over the top” as a religious fanatic.  They were concerned for him, but they missed the point of his ministry.  Even those who were closest to Jesus were slow to understand who he was and what he had come to do.  [ie. “Aldi’s for the Allen family – from their Aunt”.]

Jewish ceremonies celebrating a birth:

“ On the eighth day, when it was time to circumcise him, he was named Jesus, the name the angel had given him before he had been conceived.

When the time of their purification according to the Law of Moses had been completed, Joseph and Mary took him to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord (as it is written in the Law of the Lord, “Every firstborn male is to be consecrated to the Lord”), and to offer a sacrifice in keeping with what is said in the Law of the Lord: “a pair of doves or two young pigeons”. –  Luke 2.21-24

Jewish families went through several ceremonies soon after a baby’s birth: (1) Circumcision.  Every boy was circumcised and named on the eighth day after birth (Leviticus 12.3; Luke 1.59, 60).  Circumcision symbolised the Jews’ separation from Gentiles and their unique relationship with God (see the second note on 1.59).  (2) Redemption of the firstborn.  A firstborn son was presented to God one month after birth (Exodus 13.2, 11-16; Numbers 18.15, 16).  The ceremony including buying back – “redeeming” – the child from God through an offering.  Thus the parents acknowledged that the child belonged to God, who alone has the power to give live.  (3) Purification of the mother.  For 40 days after the birth of a son and 80 days after the birth of a daughter, the mother was ceremonially unclean and could not enter the temple.  At the end of her time of separation, the parents were to bring a lamb for a burnt offering and a dove or pigeon for a sin offering.  The priest would sacrifice these animals and declare her to be clean.  If a lamb was too expensive, the parents could bring a second dove or pigeon instead.  This is what Mary and Joseph did.

Jesus was God’s Son, but his family carried out these ceremonies according to God’s law. Jesus was not born above the law; instead,  he fulfilled it perfectly.

Importance of honouring yours:

“Why were you searching for me?” he asked. “Didn’t you know I had to be in my Father’s house?”  But they did not understand what he was saying to them.  –  Luke 2.49-50

This is the first mention of Jesus’ awareness that he was God’s Son. But even though he knew his real Father, he did not reject his earthly parents.  He went back to Nazareth with them and lived under their authority for another 18 years.  God’s people do not despise human relationships or family responsibilities.  If the Son of God obeyed his human parents, how much more should we honour our family members!  Don’t use commitment to God’s work to justify neglecting your family.

Jesus concerned for his even at death:

“ Near the cross of Jesus stood his mother, his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. When Jesus saw his mother there, and the disciple whom he loved standing near by, he said to his mother, “Dear woman, here is your son,” and to the disciple, “Here is your mother.”  From that time on, this disciple took her into his home.  –  John 19.25-27

Even while dying on the cross, Jesus was concerned about his family. He instructed John to care for Mary, Jesus’ mother.  Our families are precious gifts from God, and we should value and care for them under all circumstances.  Neither Christian work nor key responsibilities in any job or position excuse us from caring for our families.  What can you do today to show your love for your family?

How faithful parents can impact world:

“ He came to Derbe and then to Lystra, where a disciple named Timothy lived, whose mother was a Jewess and a believer, but whose father was a Greek. –  Acts 16.1

Timothy is the first second-generation Christian mentioned in the New Testament. His mother, Eunice, and grandmother, Lois (2 Timothy 1.5), had become believers and had faithfully influenced him for the Lord.  Although Timothy’s father was apparently not a Christian, the faithfulness of Timothy’s mother and grandmother prevailed.  Never underestimate the far-reaching consequences of raising one small child to love the lord.

How to be a member of God’s family:

“ A man is not a Jew if he is only one outwardly, nor is circumcision merely outward and physical. No, a man is a Jew if he is one inwardly; and circumcision is circumcision of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the written code.  Such a man’s praise is not from men, but from God  –  Romans 2.28-29

To be a Jew meant you were in God’s family, an heir to all his promises. Yet Paul made it clear that membership in God’s family is based on internal, not external, qualities. All whose hearts are right with God are real Jews – that is, part of God’s family (see also Galatians 3.7).  Attending church or being baptised, confirmed, or accepted for membership is not enough, just as submitting to circumcision was not enough for the Jews.  God desires our heartfelt devotion and obedience.  (See also Deuteronomy 10.16; Jeremiah 4.4 for more on “circumcision of the heart”.)

“ he predestined us to be adopted as his sons through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will –  Ephesians 1.5

“Predestined” means marked out beforehand. This is another way of saying that salvation is God’s work and not our own doing.  In his infinite love, God has adopted us as his own children.  Through Jesus’ sacrifice, he has brought us into his family and made us heirs along with Jesus (Romans 8.17).  In Roman law, adopted children had the same rights and privileges as biological children, even if they had been slaves.  Paul uses this term to show how strong our relationship to God is.  Have you entered into this loving relationship with God?  For more on the meaning of adoption, see Galatians 4.5-7.

Building relationships at home:

“ Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. “Honour your father and mother” – which is the first commandment with a promise – “that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.”

Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord. –  Ephesians 6.1-4

If our faith in Christ is real, it will usually prove itself at home, in our relationships with those who know us best. Children and parents have a responsibility to each other.  Children should honour their parents even if the parents are demanding and unfair.  Parents should care gently for their children, even if the children are disobedient and unpleasant.  Ideally, of course, Christian parents and Christian children will relate to each other with thoughtfulness and love.  This will happen if both parents and children put the others’ interest above their own – that is, if they submit to one another.

Families responsible to care for their members:

“ Give proper recognition to those widows who are really in need.  –  1 Timothy 5:3ff

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.

Paul’s strong words for those who neglect their families:

“ If anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for his immediate family, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.  –  1 Timothy 5.8

Almost everyone has relatives, family of some kind. Family relationships are so important in God’s eyes, Paul says, that a person who neglects his or her family responsibilities has denied the faith.  Are you doing your part to meet the needs of those included in your family circle?    [eg. ‘Titanic’]

Share the gospel with yours:

“ I have been reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also. –  2 Timothy 1.5

Crete, a small island in the Mediterranean Sea, had a large population of Jews. The churches there were probably founded by Cretan Jews who had been in Jerusalem at Pentecost (Acts 2.11) more than 30 years before Paul wrote this letter.

Man’s responsibility to:

“  Similarly, encourage the young men to be self-controlled.  –  Titus 2.6

This advice given to young men was very important. In ancient Greek society, the role of the husband/father was not viewed as a nurturing role, but merely as a functional one.  Many young men today have been brought up in families where fathers have neglected their responsibilities to their wives and children.  Husbands and fathers who are good examples of Christian living are important role models for young men who need to see how it is done.

Seals used as form of identification:

He said, “What pledge should I give you?”

“Your seal and its cord, and the staff in your hand,” she answered. So he gave them to her and slept with her, and she became pregnant by him. – Genesis 38.18

A seal was a form of identification used to authenticate legal documents. Usually a unique design carved in stone and worn on a ring or necklace inseparable from its owner, the seal was used by the wealthy and powerful to mark clay or wax.  Because Tamar had Judah’s seal, she could prove beyond a doubt that he had been with her.

(“When Judah saw her, he thought she was a prostitute, for she had covered her face. Not realising that she was his daughter-in-law, he went over to her by the roadside and said, “Come now, let me sleep with you.”  “And what will you give me to sleep with you?” she asked.  “I’ll send you a young goat from my flock,” he said.  “Will you give me something as a pledge until you send it?” she asked.  He said, “What pledge should I give you?”  “Your seal and its cord, and the staff in your hand,” she answered.  So he gave them to her and slept with her, and she became pregnant by him.  After she left, she took of her veil and put on her widow’s clothes again.  Meanwhile Judah sent the young goat by his friend the Adullamite in order to get his pledge back from the woman, but he did not find her.  He asked the men who lived there, “Where is the shrine-prostitute who was beside the road at Enaim?”  “There hasn’t been any shrine-prostitute here,” they said.  So he went back to Judah and said, “I didn’t find her.  Besides, the men who lived there said, ‘There hasn’t been any shrine-prostitute here.’ “  Then Judah said, “Let her keep what she has, or we will become a laughing-stock.  After all, I did send her this young goat, but you didn’t find her.”  About three months later Judah was told, “Your daughter-in-law Tamar is guilty of prostitution, and as a result she is now pregnant.”  Judah said, “Bring her out and have her burned to death!”  – Genesis 38.15-24. Why was Judah so open about his relations with a prostitute, yet ready to execute his daughter-in-law for being one?  To understand this apparent contradiction, we must understand the place of women in Canaan.  A woman’s most important function was bearing children who would perpetuate the family line.  To ensure that children belonged to the husband, the bride was expected to be a virgin and the wife was expected to have relations only with him.  If a wife committed adultery, she could be executed.  Some women, however, did not belong to families.  They might be shrine prostitutes supported by offerings or common prostitutes supported by the men who used their services.  Their children were nobody’s heirs, and men who hired them adulterated nobody’s bloodlines.)

(Judah saw no harm in hiring a prostitute for a night; after all, he was more than willing to pay. He was ready to execute Tamar, however, because if she was pregnant as a result of prostitution, his grandchild would not be part of his family line.  Apparently the question of sexual morality never entered Judah’s mind; his concern was for keeping his inheritance in the family.  Ironically, it was Tamar, not Judah, who acted to provide him with legal heirs.  By seducing him, she acted more in the spirit of the law than he did when he refused to send his third son to her.)

(This story in no way implies that God winks at prostitution.  Throughout Scripture, prostitution is condemned as a serious sin.  If the story has a moral, it is that faithfulness to family obligations is important.  Incidentally, Judah and Tamar are direct ancestors of Jesus Christ (see Matthew 1.1-6).)

(About three months later Judah was told, “Your daughter-in-law Tamar is guilty of prostitution, and as a result she is now pregnant.” Judah said, “Bring her out and have her burned to death!”  As she was being brought out, she sent a message to her father-in-law.  “I am pregnant by the man who owns these,” she said.  And she added, “See if you recognise whose seal and cord and staff these are.”  Judah recognised them and said, “She is more righteous than I, since I wouldn’t give her to my son Shelah.”  And he did not sleep with her again.  – Genesis 38.24-26. When Tamar revealed she was pregnant, Judah who had unknowingly made her pregnant, moved to have her killed.  Judah had concealed his own sin, yet he came down harshly on Tamar.  Often the sins we try to cover up are the ones that anger us most when we see them in others.  If you became indignant at the sins of others, you may have a similar tendency to sin that you don’t wish to face.  When we admit our sins and ask God to forgive.)

How it was done in Jeremiah’s day:

“Take a scroll and write on it all the words I have spoken to you concerning Israel, Judah and all the other nations from the time I began speaking to you in the reign of Josiah till now. Perhaps when the people of Judah hear about every disaster I plan to inflict on them, each of them will turn from his wicked way; then I will forgive their wickedness and their sin.”

So Jeremiah called Baruch son of Neriah, and while Jeremiah dictated all the words the LORD had spoken to him, Baruch wrote them on the scroll. – Jeremiah 36.2-4

Most people in ancient times could neither read nor write, so those who could were extremely valuable. These scribes held positions of great importance and were very respected for their knowledge.  Baruch was Jeremiah’s scribe.  Writing was often done on vellum or papyrus sheets that were sewn or glued together and stored in long rolls called scrolls.  After the exile, scribes became teachers of the law.  In New Testament times, the scribes formed a powerful political party.

(In the fourth year of Jehoiakim son of Josiah king of Judah, this word came to Jeremiah from the LORD – Jeremiah 36.1ff.  This happened in the summer of 605 B.C., shortly after Nebuchadnezzar’s victory over the Egyptian army at Carchemish, before the events recorded in chapters 34 and 35.)

(In the ninth month of the fifth year of Jehoiakim son of Josiah king of Judah, a time of fasting before the LORD was proclaimed for all the people in Jerusalem and those who had come from the towns of Judah. – Jeremiah 36.9. A time of fasting (when people abstained from eating food to show their humility and repentance) was often called during times of national emergency.  Babylon was destroying city after city and closing in on Jerusalem.  As the people came to the temple, Baruch told them how to avert the coming tragedy.  But they refused to listen.)

How it was done in John’s day:

Then I saw in the right hand of him who sat on the throne a scroll with writing on both sides and sealed with seven seals. – Revelation 5.1

In John’s day, books were written on scrolls – pieces of papyrus or vellum up to 30 feet long, rolled up and sealed with clay or wax. The scroll that John sees contains the full account of what God has in store for the world.  The seven seals indicate the importance of its contents.  The seals are located throughout the scroll so that as each one is broken, more of the scroll can be read to reveal another phase of God’s plan for the end of the world.  Only Christ is worthy to break the seals and open the scroll (5.3-5).

(5.1ff says that chapter 5 continues the glimpse into heaven begun in chapter 4.)

(“You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honour and power, for you created all things, and by your will they were created and have their being. – Revelation 4.11. The point of this chapter is summed up in this verse: all creatures in heaven and earth will praise and honour God because he is the Creator and Sustainer of everything.)

(Then one of the elders said to me, “Do not weep! See, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has triumphed.  He is able to open the scroll and its seven seals.” – Revelation 5.5. The Lion, Jesus, proved himself worthy to break the seals and open the scroll by living a perfect life of obedience to God, dying on the cross for the sins of the world, and rising from the dead to show his power and authority over evil and death.  Only Christ conquered sin, death, hell, and Satan himself; so only he can be trusted with the world’s future.  The Root of David refers to Jesus being from David’s family line, thus fulfilling the promise of the Messiah in the Old Testament.)

(Then one of the elders said to me, “Do not weep! See, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has triumphed.  He is able to open the scroll and its seven seals.”  Then I saw a Lamb, looking as if it had been slain, standing in the centre of the throne, encircled by the four living creatures and the elders.  He had seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven spirits of God sent out into allt he earth. –  Revelation 5.5, 6. Jesus Christ is pictured as both a Lion (symbolising his authority and power) and a Lamb (symbolising his submission to God’s will).  One of the elders calls John to look at the Lion, but when John look she sees a Lamb.  Christ the Lamb was the perfect sacrifice for the sins of all mankind; therefore, only he can save us from the terrible events revealed by the scroll.  Christ the Lamb won the greatest battle of all.  He defeated all the forces of evil by dying on the cross.  The role of Christ the Lion will be to lead the battle where Satan is finally defeated (19.19-21).  Christ the Lion is victorious because of what Christ the Lamb has already done.  We will participate in his victory not because of our effort or goodness, but because he has promised eternal life to all who believe in him.)

(John sees the Lamb “looking as if it had been slain”; the wounds inflicted on Jesus’ body during his trial and crucifixion could still be seen (see John 20.24-31). Jesus was called the Lamb of God by John the Baptist (John 1.29).  In the Old Testament, lambs were sacrificed to atone for sins: the Lamb of God died as the final sacrifice for all sins (see Isaiah 53.7; Hebrews 10.1-23, 18).)

In marriage, the same for men & women:

Genesis 2.21-23

God forms and equips men and women for various tasks, but all these tasks lead to the same goal – honouring God. Man gives life to woman; woman gives life to the world.  Each role carries exclusive privileges; there is no room for thinking that one sex is superior to the other.

(God’s creative work was not complete until he made woman. He could have made her from the dust of the ground [protagonist], as he made man.  God chose, however, to make her from the man’s flesh and bone.  In so doing, he illustrated for us that in marriage man and woman symbolically become one flesh.  This is a mystical union of the couple’s hearts and lives.  Throughout the Bible, God treats his special partnership seriously.  If you are married or planning to be married, are you willing to keep the commitment that makes the two of you one?  The goal in marriage should be more than friendship; it should be oneness).

Achieving worthy goals in wrong way:

Genesis 3.5

Satan used a sincere motive to tempt Eve – “you will be like God”. It wasn’t wrong of Eve to want to be like God.  To become more like God is humanity’s highest goal.  It is what we are supposed to do.  But Satan misled Eve concerning the right way to accomplish this goal.  He told her that she could become more like God [Walk] by defying God’s authority, by taking God’s place and deciding for herself what was best for her life.  In effect, he told her to become her own god.

Self-exaltation leads to rebellion against God. As soon as we begin to leave God out of our plans, we are placing ourselves above him.  This is exactly what Satan wants us to do.

(Adam and Eve got what they wanted: an intimate knowledge of both good and evil. But they got it by doing evil, and the results were disastrous.  Sometimes we have the illusion that freedom is doing anything we want.  But God says that true freedom comes from obedience and knowing what not to do.  The restrictions he give us are for our good, helping us avoid evil.  We have the freedom to walk in front of a speeding car, but we don’t need to be hit to realise it would be foolish to do so.  Don’t listen to Satan’s temptations.  You don’t have to do evil to gain more experience and learn more about life).

Genesis 27.5-10

When Rebekah learned that Isaac was preparing to bless Esau, she quickly devised a plan to trick him into blessing Jacob instead. Although God [Wall] had already told her that Jacob would become the family leader (25.23-26), Rebekah took matters into her own hands.  She resorted to doing something wrong to try to bring about what God [Wall] had already said would happen.  For Rebekah, the end justified the means.  No matter how good we think our goals are, we should not attempt to achieve them by doing what is wrong.  Would God [Wall] approve of the methods you are using to accomplish your goals?

Genesis 34.30-31

In seeking revenge against Shechem, Simeon and Levi lied, stole, and murdered. Their desire for justice was right, but their ways of achieving it were wrong.  Because of their sin, their father cursed them with his dying breath (49.5-7).  Generations later, their descendants lost the part of the promised land allotted to them.  When tempted to return evil for evil, leave revenge to God and spare yourself the dreadful consequences of sin.

1 Samuel 24.16-19

The means we use to accomplish a goal are just as important as the goal we are trying to accomplish. David’s goal was to become king, so his men urged him to kill Saul when he had the chance.  David’s refusal was not an example of cowardice but of courage – the courage to stand against the group and do what he knew was right.  Don’t compromise your moral standards by giving in to group pressure or taking the easy way out.

Some are worth working and waiting for:

Genesis 29.20-28

People often wonder if working for a long time for something they desire is worth it. Jacob worked seven years to marry Rachel.  After being tricked, he agreed to work seven more years for her (although he did get to marry Rachel shortly after he married Leah)!  The most important goals and desires are worth working and waiting for.  Films [“Neck”] and television have created the illusion that people have to wait only about an hour to solve their problems or get what they want.  Don’t be trapped into thinking the same is true in real life.  Patience is hardest when we need it the most, but it is the key to achieving our goals.

(29.18-27   It was the custom of the day for a man to present a dowry, or substantial gift, to the family of his future.  This was to compensate the family for the loss of the girl.  Jacob’s dowry was not a material possession, for he had none to offer.  Instead he agreed to work for seven years for Laban.  But there was another custom of the land that Laban did not tell Jacob.  The older daughter had to be married first.  By giving Jacob Leah and not Rachel, Laban tricked him into promising another seven years hard work)

(29.28-30   Jacob was enraged when he learned that Laban had tricked him.  The deceiver of Esau was now deceived himself.  How natural it is for us to become upset at an injustice done to us while closing our eyes to the injustices we do to others.  Sin has a way of coming back to haunt us.)

God may not lead you on shortest path to:

Exodus 13.17-18

God doesn’t always work in the way that seems best to us. Instead of guiding the Israelites along the direct route from Egypt to the promised land, he took them by a longer route to avoid fighting with the Philistines [Northern Virginia].  If God [Wall] does not lead you along the shortest path to your goal, don’t complain [Stage] or resist.  Follow him willingly and trust him to lead you safely around unseen obstacles.  He can see the end of your journey from the beginning, and he knows the safest and best route.

Don’t stop trusting God as you near your goals:

Numbers 14.5-9

With great miracles, God had led the Israelites out of slavery, through the desolate desert, and up to the very edge of the promised land. He had protected them, fed them, and fulfilled every promise.  Yet when encouraged to take that last step of faith and enter the land, the people refused.  After witnessing so many miracles, why did they stop trusting God [Wall]?  why did they refuse to enter the promised land when that had been their goal since leaving Egypt?  They were afraid.  Often we do the same [Policy] thing.  We trust God to handle the smaller issues but doubt his ability to take care of the big problems, the tough decisions, the frightening situations.  Don’t stop trusting God just as you are ready to reach your goal.  He brought you this far and won’t let you down now.  We can continue trusting God by remembering all he has done for us.

Joab ruthless in accomplishing his:

1 Kings 2.5-7

Joab epitomises those who are ruthless in accomplishing their goals. His strength was his only code, and winning the battle [ugly] his only law.  He wanted to get power for himself and protect it.  In contrast, Barzillai stands for those who are loyal to God and live by his standards.  When offered glory, for example, he unselfishly asked that it be given to his son.  Is your leadership self-serving or God-serving?

Aligning yours with God’s:

Psalm 97.10

A sincere desire to please God will result in an alignment of your desires with God’s [Wall’s] desires. You will love what God [Wall] loves and hate what God hates.  If you love the Lord, you will hate evil.  If you do not despise the actions of people who take advantage of others, if you admire people who only look out for themselves, or if you envy those who get ahead using any means to accomplish their ends, then your primary desire in life is not to please God [Wall].  Learn to love God’s ways and hate evil in every form – not only the obvious sins but also the socially acceptable ones.

Obedience to God our greatest goal:

Matthew 5.19

Some of those in the crowd were experts at telling others what to do, but they missed the central point of God’s laws themselves.  Jesus made it clear, however, that obeying God’s law is more important [Music] than explaining it. [Theme]. It’s much easier to study God’s laws and tell them to obey them than to put them into practice.  How are you doing at obeying God [Wall] yourself?

Jesus’ contrasted with Satan’s:

Mark 5.10

Mark often highlights the supernatural [Fan club] struggle between Jesus and Satan.  The demon’s goal was to control he humans they inhabited; Jesus’ goal was to give people freedom from sin and Satan’s control [Fiscal Year-end] and Satan’s control [Fiscal Year End].  The demons knew they had no power over Jesus; so when they saw Jesus, they begged not to be sent out of the area (“into the Abyss” in Luke 8.31).  Jesus granted their request to enter into the herd of pigs (5.13) but ended their destructive work in people.  Perhaps Jesus let the demons destroy the pigs to demonstrate his own superiority over a very powerful yet destructive force.  He could have sent them to hell, but he did not, because the time for judgment had not yet come.  In the end, the devil and all his angels [Theyre money] will be sent into eternal fire (Matthew 25.41).

God’s ultimate goal for us:

Romans 8.29

God’s [Wall’s] ultimate goal for us is to make us like Christ (1 John 3.2). As we become more and more like him, we discover our true selves, the persons we were created to be.  How can we be conformed to Christ’s likeness?  By reading and heeding the word, by studying his life on earth through the Gospels, by being felled with his Spirit, and by doing his work in the world.

(8.28 God works in “all things” – not just isolated incidents –  for our good.  This does not mean that all that happens to us is good.  Evil is prevalent in our fallen world, but God is able to turn every circumstance around for our long-range good.  Note that God [Wall] is not working to make us happy, but to fulfil his purpose.  Note also that this promise is not for everybody.  It can be claimed only by those who love God [Wall] and are called according to his purpose.  Those who are “called” are those the Holy Spirit convinces and enables to receive Christ.  Such people have a new perspective on life, a new mindset [Bank].  They trust in God, not life’s treasures; they look for their security in heaven, not earth; they learn to accept, not resent, pain and persecution because God [Wall] is with them).

(Some believe these verses mean that before the beginning of the world, God chose certain people to receive his gift of salvation.  They point to verses like Ephesians 1:11 that says we are “predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of will”.  Others believe that God [Wall] foreknew those who would respond in him and upon those he set his mark (predestined).  What is clear is that God’s purpose for people was not an afterthought; it was settled before the foundation of the world.  People are to serve and honour God [Wall].  If you have believed in Christ, you can rejoice in the fact that God [Wall] has always known you.  God’s love is eternal.  His wisdom and power are supreme.  He will guide and protect you until one day you stand in his presence).

Philippians 3.12-14

Paul says that his goal is to know Christ, to be like Christ, and to be all Christ has in mind for him. This goal absorbs all Paul’s energy.  This is a helpful example for us.  We should not let anything take our eyes off our goal – knowing Christ.  With a single-mindedness of an athlete in training, we must lay aside everything harmful and forsake anything that may distract us from being effective Christians.  What is holding you back?

(Paul had reason to forget what was behind – he had held the coats of those who stoned Stephen, the first Christian martyr (Acts 7.57, 58; Paul is called Saul here). We have all done things for which we are ashamed, and we live in the tension of what we have been and what we want to be.  Because our hope is in Christ, however, we can let go of past guilt and look forward to what God [Wall] will help us become.  Don’t dwell on your past.  Instead, grow in the knowledge of God by concentrating on your relationship with him now.  Realise that you are forgiven, and then move on to a life of faith and obedience.  Look forward to a fuller and more meaningful life because of your hope in Christ).

Believers have individual differences but a common goal:

1 Corinthians 12.13

The church is composed of many types of people from a variety of background with a multitude of gifts and abilities.  It is easy for these differences to divide people, as was the case in Corinth.  But despite the differences, all believers have one thing in common – faith in Christ.  On this essential truth the church finds unity.  All believers are baptised by one Holy Spirit into one body of believers, the church.  We don’t lose our individual identities, but we have an overriding oneness in Christ.  When a person becomes a Christian, the Holy Spirit takes up residence, and he or she is born into God’s family.  “We are all given the one Spirit to drink” means that the same Holy Spirit completely fills our innermost beings.  As members of God’s family, we may have different interests and gifts, but we have a common goal.

(1 Corinthians 12.10, 11   “Prophecy” is not just a prediction about the future; it can also mean preaching God’s [Wall’s] word with power.  “Distinguishing between spirits” means the ability to discern whether a person who claims to speak for God [Wall] is actually doing so, or is speaking by an evil spirit.  (Paul discusses tongues and their interpretation in more detail in Chapter 14).   No matter what gift(s) a person has, each gift is given by the Holy Spirit.  The Holy Spirit decides which gifts each one of us should have.  We are responsible to use and sharpen our gifts, but we can take no credit for what God [Wall] has freely given us).

(1 Corinthians 12.12   Paul compares the body of Christ to a human body.  Each part has a specific function that is necessary to the body as a whole.  The parts are different for a purpose, and in their differences they must work together.  Christians must avoid two common errors: (1) being too proud of their abilities, or (2) thinking they have nothing to give to the body of believers.  Instead of comparing ourselves to one another, we should use our different gifts, together, to spread the Good News of salvation).

Don’t leave God out of your goals:

James 4.13-16

It is good to have goals, but goals will disappoint us if we leave God [Wall] out of them.  There is no point in making plans as though God does not exist, because the future is in his hands.  What would you like to be doing ten years from now?  One year from now?  Tomorrow?  How will you react if God [Wall] steps in and rearranges your plans?  Plan ahead, but hold your plans loosely.  Put God’s desires at the centre of your planning; he will never disappoint you.

(James 4.11, 12   Jesus summarised the law as love for God and neighbour (Matthew 22.37-40), and Paul said that love demonstrated towards a neighbour [“Lost Soul”] would fully satisfy the law (Romans 13.6-10).  When we fail to love, we are actually breaking God’s [Wall’s] law.  Examine your attitude and actions towards others.  Do you build people up or tear them down?  When you’re ready to criticise someone, remember God’s [Wall’s] law of love and say something good instead.  Saying something beneficial to others will cure you of finding fault and increase your ability to obey God’s law of love).

(Life is short no matter how many years we live. Don’t be deceived into thinking that you have lots of remaining time to live for Christ, to enjoy your loved ones, or to do what you know you should.  Live for God today!  Then, no matter when your life ends, you will have fulfilled God’s plan for you).

[Plate showing Brothers.]

God rescues us in his timing, not ours:

During that long period, the king of Egypt died. The Israelites groaned in their slavery and cried out, and their cry for help because of their slavery went up to God.  God heard their groaning and he remembered his covenant with Abraham, with Isaac and with Jacob.  So God looked on the Israelites and was concerned about them. – Exodus 2.23-25

God’s rescue doesn’t always come the moment we want it. God had promised to bring the Hebrew slaves out of Egypt (Genesis 15.16, 46.3, 4).  The people had waited a long time for that promise to be kept, but God rescued them when he knew the right time had come.  God knows the best time to act.  When you feel that God has forgotten you in your troubles, remember that God has a time schedule we can’t see.

(Some shepherds came along and drove them away, but Moses got up and came to their rescue and watered their flock. – Exodus 2.17.  How did Moses handle these shepherds so easily?  As an Egyptian prince, Moses would have been well trained in the Egyptian military, the most advanced army in the world.  Even a large group of shepherds would have been no match for the sophisticated fighting techniques of this trained warrior.)

(Now Moses was tending the flock of Jethro his father-in-law, the priest of Midian, and he led the flock to the far side of the desert and came to Horeb, the mountain of God. – Exodus 3.1.  What a contrast between Moses’ life as an Egyptian prince and his life as a Midianite shepherd! As a prince he had everything done for him; he was the famous son of an Egyptian princess.  As a shepherd he had to do everything for himself; he was holding the very job he had been taught to despise (Genesis 43.32; 46.32-34), and he lived as an unknown foreigner.  What a humbling experience this must have been for Moses! But God was preparing him for leadership.  Living the life of a shepherd and nomad, Moses learned about the ways of the people he would be leading and also about life in the desert.  Moses couldn’t appreciate this lesson, but God was getting him ready to free Israel from Pharaoh’s grasp.)

Do what is right at the right time:

Early the next morning they went up towards the high hill country. “We have sinned,” they said, “We will go up to the place the LORD promised.”

But Moses said, “Why are you disobeying the LORD’s command? This will not succeed!  Do not go up, because the LORD is not with you.  You will be defeated by your enemies, for the Amalekites and Canaanites will face you there.  Because you have turned away from the LORD, he will not be with you and you will fall by the sword.”

Nevertheless, in their presumption they went up toward the high hill country, though neither Moses nor the ark of the LORD’s covenant moved from the camp. – Numbers 14.40-44

When the Israelites realised their foolish mistake, they were suddenly ready to return to God. But God didn’t confuse their admission of guilt with true repentance because he knew their hearts. Sure enough, they soon went their own way again.  Sometimes right actions or good intentions come too late.  We must not only do what is right, but also do it at the right time.  God wants complete and instant obedience.

(I, the LORD, have spoken, and I will surely do these things to this whole wicked community, which has banded together against me. They will meet their end in this desert; here they will die. – Numbers 14.35.  Was this judgment – wandering 40 years in the desert  – too harsh?  Not compared to the instant death that God first threatened (14.12).  Instead, God allowed the people to live.  God had brought his people to the edge of the promised land, just as he said he would.  He was ready to give them the rich land, but the people didn’t want it (14.1, 2).  By this time, God had put up with a lot.  At least ten times the people had refused to trust and obey him (14.22).  The whole nation (except for Joshua, Caleb, Moses, and Aaron) showed contempt for and distrust of God.  But God’s punishment was not permanent.  In 40 years, a new generation would have a chance to enter Canaan (Joshua 1-3).)

(…and you present to the LORD offerings made by fire, from the herd or the flock, as an aroma pleasing to the LORD – whether burnt offerings or sacrifices, for special vows or freewill offerings or festival offerings – Numbers 15.3.  “An aroma pleasing to the LORD” means that God would be pleased with their sacrifices.)

Waiting for God’s:

How long will the enemy mock you, O God? Will the foe revile your name for ever?   Why do you hold back your hand, your right hand?   Take it from the folds of your garment and destroy them!

But you, O God, are my king from of old; you bring salvation upon the earth.   It was you who split open the sea by your power;  you broke the heads of the monster in the waters.  It was you who crushed the heads of Leviathan and gave him as food to the creatures of the desert.  It was you who opened up springs and streams; you dried up the every-flowing rivers.  The day is yours, and yours also the night;  you established the sun and moon.  It was you who set all the boundaries of the earth; you made both summer and winter.

Remember how the enemy has mocked you, O LORD, how foolish people have reviled your name. – Psalms 74.10-18

From our perspective, God sometimes seems slow to intervene on our behalf. But what might appear slow to us is good timing from God’s perspective.  It’s easy to become impatient while waiting for God to act, but we must never give up on him.  When God is silent and you are in deep anguish, follow the method in the psalm.  Review the great acts of God throughout biblical history, then review what he has done for you.  This will remind you that God is at work, not only in history, but in your life today.

“The monster in the waters” recalls the Lord’s words to Egypt (Ezekiel 32:2). “Leviathan” refers to the Canaanite seven-headed serpent, Lotan.  In their legends, Baal defeated these creatures.  This psalm praised God for doing in reality what the Canaanite gods could only do in legends.

You say, “I choose the appointed time; it is I who judge uprightly. – Psalms 75.2

God will act when he is ready. Children have difficulty grasping the concept of time.  “It’s not time yet” is not a reason they easily understand because they only comprehend the present.  As limited human beings, we can’t understand God’s perspective about time.  We want everything now, unaware that God’s timing is better.  When God is ready, he will do what needs to be done, not what we would like him to do.  We may be as impatient as children, but we must not doubt the wisdom of God’s timing.  Wait for God to reveal his plan.  Don’t take matters into your own hands.

Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus. Yet when he heard that Lazarus was sick, he stayed where he was two more days.

Then he said to his disciples, “Let us go back to Judea.” – John 11.5-7

Jesus loves this family and often stayed with them. He knew their pain but did not respond immediately.  His delay had a specific purpose.  God’s timing, especially his delays, may make us think he is not answering or is not answering the way we want.  But he will meet all our needs according to his perfect schedule and purpose (Philippians 4:19).  Patiently await his timing.

(When he heard this, Jesus said, “This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God’s glory so that God’s Son may be glorified through it.” – John 11.4.  Any trial a believer faces can ultimately bring glory to God because God can bring good out of any bad situation (Genesis 50:20; Romans 8:28).  When trouble comes, do you grumble, complain, and blame God, or do you see your problems as opportunities to honour him?)

(Jesus answered, “Are there not twelve hours of daylight? A man who walks by day will not stumble, for he sees this world’s light.  It is when he walks by night that he stumbles, for he has no light. – John 11.9, 10. Day symbolises the knowledge of God’s will, and night, the absence of this knowledge.  When we move ahead in darkness, we will be likely to stumble.)

On one occasion, while he was eating with them, he gave them this command: “Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift with my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. – Acts 1.4

The Trinity is a description of the unique relationship of God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.  If Jesus had stayed on earth, his physical presence would have limited the spread of the gospel, because physically he could be in only one place at a time.  After Christ was taken up into heaven, he would be spiritually present everywhere through the Holy Spirit.  The Holy Spirit was sent so that God would be with and within his followers after Christ returned to heaven.  The Spirit would comfort them, guide them to know his truth, remind them of Jesus’ words, give them the right words to say, and fill them with power (see John 14-16).

(For John baptised with water, but in a few days you will be baptised with the Holy Spirit.” – John 1.5.  At Pentecost 2.1-4) the Holy Spirit was made available to all who believed in Jesus.  We receive the Holy Spirit (are baptised by him) when we receive Jesus Christ.  The baptism of the Holy Spirit must be understood in the light of his total work in Christians. )

((1) The Spirit marks the beginning of the Christian experience. We cannot belong to Christ without his Spirit (Romans 8.9); we cannot be united to Christ without his Spirit (1 Corinthians 6.17); we cannot be adopted as his children without his Spirit (Romans 8.14-17; Galatians 4.6, 7); we cannot be in the body of Christ except by baptism by the Spirit (1 Corinthians 12.13).)

((2) The Spirit is the power of our new lives. He begins a lifelong process of change as we become more like Christ (Galatians 3.3; Philippians 1.6).  When we receive Christ by faith, we begin an immediate personal relationship with God.  The Holy Spirit works in us to help us become like Christ.)

((3) The Spirit unites the Christian community in Christ (Ephesians 2.19-22). The Holy Spirit can be experienced by all, and he works through all (1 Corinthians 12.11; Ephesians 4.4). )

Finally, all of you, live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble. Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing. – 1 Peter 3.8-9

Peter developed the qualities of compassion and humility the hard way. In his early days with Christ, these attitudes did not come naturally to his impulsive, strong-willed personality (see Mark 8.31-33; John 13.6-9 for examples of Peter’s blustering).  But the Holy Spirit changed Peter, moulding his strong personality to God’s use, and teaching him tenderness and humility.

(Peter lists five key elements that should characterise any group of believers: (1) harmony – pursuing the same goals; (2) sympathy – being responsive to others’ needs; (3) love – seeing and treating each other as brothers and sisters; (4) compassion – being affectionately sensitive and caring; and (5) humility – being willing to encourage one another and rejoice in each other’s successes. These five qualities go a long way towards helping believers serve God effectively).

(In our fallen world, it is often deemed acceptable by some to tear people down verbally or to get back at them if we feel hurt. Peter, remembering Jesus’ teaching to turn the other cheek (Matthew 5.39), encourages his readers to pay back wrongs by praying for the offenders.  In God’s kingdom, revenge is unacceptable behaviour, as is insulting a person, no matter how indirectly it is done.  Rise above getting back at those who hurt you.  Instead of reacting angrily to these people, pray for them).

(Husbands, in the same way be considerate as you live with your wives, and treat them with respect as the weaker partner and as heirs with you of the gracious gift of life, so that nothing will hinder your prayers. – 1 Peter 3.7  When Peter calls women the “weaker” partners, he does not imply moral or intellectual inferiority, but he is recognising women’s physical limitations.  Women in his day, if unprotected by men, were vulnerable to attack, abuse, and financial disaster.  Women’s lives may be easier today, but women are still vulnerable to criminal attack and family abuse.  And in spite of increased opportunities in the workplace, most women still earn considerably less than most men, and the vast majority of the nations’ poor are single mothers and their children.  A man who honours his wife as a member of the weaker sex will protect, respect, help, and stay with her.  He will not expect her to work full-time outside the home and full-time at home; he will lighten her load wherever he can.  He will be sensitive to her needs, and he will relate to her with courtesy, consideration, insight, and tact).

(He must turn from evil and do good; he must seek peace and pursue it. – 1 Peter 3.11.  Too often we see peace as merely the absence of conflict, and we think of peacemaking as a passive role.  But an effective peacemaker actively pursues peace.  He or she builds good relationships, knowing that peace is a by-product of commitment.  The peacemaker, anticipates problems and deals with them before they occur.  When conflicts arise, he or she brings them into the open and deals with them before they grow unmanageable.  Making peace can be harder work than waging war, but it results not in death but in life and happiness.)

(If a man is not considerate and respectful of his wife, his prayers will be hindered, because a living relationship with God depends on right relationships with others. Jesus said that if you have a problem with a fellow believer, you must make it right with that person before coming to worship (Matthew 5.23, 24).  This principle carries over into family relationships.  If men use their position to mistreat their wives, their relationship with God will suffer).

Mixing right desires with wrong timing:

After David was settled in his place, he said to Nathan the prophet, “Here I am, living in a palace of cedar, while the ark of the covenant of the LORD is under a tent.” – 1 Chronicles 17.1

David felt disturbed that the ark, the symbol of God’s presence, sat in a tent while he lived in the beautiful palace. David’s desire was right, but his timing was wrong.  God told David not to build a temple (17.3, 4), and David was willing to abide by God’s timing.  If you live in comparative luxury while God’s work, house, or ministers go lacking, perhaps God wants to change the situation.  Like David, take action to correct the imbalance, but be willing to move according to God’s timing.

(David left Zadok the priest and his fellow priests before the tabernacle of the LORD at the high place in Gibeon – 1 Chronicles 16.39.  David brought the ark to Jerusalem although the tabernacle was still at Gibeon.  His plan was to reunite the tabernacle and ark in a new temple at Jerusalem that would then become Israel’s only worship centre.  The temple, however, was not built until Solomon’s time.  In the meantime, Israel had two worship centres and two high priests (15.11), one at Gibeon and one at Jerusalem).

(That night the word of God came to Nathan, saying: “Go and tell my servant David, ‘This is what the LORD says: You are not the one to build me a house to dwell in. I have not dwelt in a house from the day I brought Israel up out of Egypt to this day.  I have moved from one tent site to another, from one dwelling-place to another.  Wherever I have moved with all the Israelites, did I ever say to any of their leaders whom I commanded to shepherd my people, “Why have you not built me a house of cedar?” ‘  Now then, tell my servant David, ‘This is what the LORD Almighty says: I took you from the pasture and from following the flock, to be ruler over my people Israel.  I have been with you wherever you have gone, and I have cut off all your enemies from before you.  Now I will make your name like the names of the greatest men of the earth.  And I will provide a place for my people Israel and will plant them so that they can have a home of their own and no longer be disturbed.  Wicked people will not oppress them any more, as they did at the beginning and have done ever since the time I appointed leaders over my people Israel.  I will also subdue all your enemies.  “ ‘I declare to you that the LORD will build a house for you: When your days are over and you go to be with your fathers, I will raise up your offspring to succeed you, one of your own sons, and I will establish his kingdom.  He is the one who will build a house for me, and I will establish his throne for ever.  I will be his father, and he will be my son.  I will never take my love away from him, as I took it away from your predecessor.  I will set him over my house and my kingdom for ever; his throne will be established for ever.’ “ – 1 Chronicles 17.3-14.  God did not want a warrior to build his temple (28.3; 1 Kings 5.3), and David had shed much blood in unifying the nation.  So the honour of building the temple would go to David’s son Solomon.  David would pass on to Solomon a peaceful and united kingdom, ready to begin work on a beautiful temple).

Recognizing God’s timing in your life, Elizabeth’s PROFILE 1785

Jesus trusted God’s timing:

Now Jesus himself was about thirty years old when he began his ministry. He was the son, so it was thought, of Joseph:

the son of Heli – Luke 3.23

Imagine the Saviour of the world working in a rural carpenter’s shop until he was 30 years old! It seems incredible that Jesus would have been content to remain in Nazareth, all that time, but he patiently trusted the Father’s timing for his life and ministry (Numbers 4.3).  Joseph was 30 years old when he began serving the king of Egypt (Genesis 41.46), and David was 30 years old when he began to reign over Judah (2 Samuel 5.4).  Age 30, then, was a good time to begin an important task in the Jewish culture.  Like Jesus, we need to resist the temptation to jump ahead before receiving the Spirit’s direction.  Are you waiting and wondering what your next step should be?  Don’t jump ahead – trust God’s timing.

(Heli may have been Joseph’s father-in-law. If that were the case, this would be Mary’s genealogy that Luke may have received personally from her.  It is fitting that Luke would show Mary’s genealogy because of the prominence he gives women in his Gospel).

(Matthew’s genealogy goes back to Abraham and shows that Jesus was related to all Jews (Matthew 1). Luke’s generation goes back to Adam, showing that Jesus is related to all human beings.  This is consistent with Luke’s picture of Jesus as the Saviour of the whole world).

(When all the people were being baptised, Jesus was baptised too. And as he was praying, heaven was opened and the Holy Spirit descended on him in bodily form like a dove.  And a voice came from heaven: “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.” – Luke 3.21, 22.  Luke emphasises Jesus’ human nature.  Jesus was born to humble parents, a birth unannounced except to shepherds and foreigners.  This baptism recorded here was the first public declaration of Jesus’ ministry.  Instead of going to Jerusalem and identifying with the established religious leaders, Jesus went to a river and identified himself with those who were repenting of sin.  When Jesus, at age 12, visited the temple, he understood his mission (2:49).  Eighteen years later, at his baptism, he began carrying it out.  And as Jesus prayed, God spoke and confirmed his decision to act.  God was breaking into human history through Jesus the Christ).

(If baptism was a sign of repentance from sin, why did Jesus ask to be baptised? Several explanations are often given: (1) Jesus’ baptism was one step in fulfilling his earthly mission of identifying with our humanity and sin; (2) by endorsing the rite of baptism, Jesus was giving us an example to follow; (3) Jesus was announcing the beginning of his public ministry; (4) Jesus was being baptised for the sins of the nation.  The Holy Spirit’s appearance in the form of a dove showed that God’s plan for salvation was centred in Jesus.  Jesus was the perfect human who didn’t need baptism for repentance, but he was baptised anyway on our behalf).

(This is one of several places in Scripture where all the members of the Trinity are mentioned – Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. In the traditional words of the church, the one God exists in three persons but one substance, co-eternal and co-equal.  No amount of explanation can adequately portray the power and intricacy of this unique relationship.  There are no perfect analogies in nature because there is no other relationship like the Trinity).

Jesus came at the right time:

You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. – Romans 5.6

We were weak and helpless because we could do nothing on our own to save ourselves. Someone had to come and rescue us.  Not only did Christ come at a good time in history; he came at exactly the right time – according to God’s own schedule.  God controls all history, and he controlled the timing, methods, and results of Jesus’ death.

(All three members of the Trinity are involved in salvation. The Father loved us so much that he sent his Son to bridge the gap between us (John 3.16).  The Father and the Son send the Holy Spirit to fill our lives with love and to enable us to live by his power (Acts 1.8).  With all this loving care, how can we do less than serve him completely!).

(Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. – Romans 5.3, 4.  For first-century Christians, suffering was the rule rather than the exception.  Paul tells us that in the future we will become, but until then we must overcome.  This means we will experience difficulties that help us grow.  We rejoice in suffering not because we like pain or deny its tragedy, but because we know God is using life’s difficulties and Satan’s attacks to build our character.  The problems that we run into will develop our perseverance – which in turn will strengthen our character, deepen our trust in God, and give us greater confidence about the future.  You probably find your patience tested in some way every day.  Thank God for those opportunities to grow, and deal with them in his strength (see also James 1.2-4; 1 Peter 1.6, 7)).

(But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. – Romans 5.8.  While we were still sinners – these are amazing words.  God sent Jesus Christ to die for us, not because we were good enough, but because he loved us.  Whenever you feel uncertain about God’s love for you, remember that he loved you even before you turned to him.  If God loved you when you were a rebel, he can surely strengthen you, now that you love him in return).

(Not only is this so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation – Romans 5.11.  God is holy, and he will not be associated with sin.  All people are sinful and so they are separated from God.  In addition, all sin deserves punishment.  Instead of punishing us with the death we deserve, however, Christ took our sins upon himself and took our punishment by dying on the cross.  Now we can “rejoice in God”.  Through faith in Christ’s work, we become close to God (reconciled) rather than being enemies and outcasts).

(Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all men, because all sinned – Romans 5.12.  How can we be declared guilty for something Adam did thousands of years ago?  many feel it isn’t right for God to judge us because of Adam’s sin.  Yet each of us confirms our solidarity with Adam by our own sins each day.  We are made of the same stuff and are prone to rebel, and we are judged for the sins we commit.  Because we are sinners, it isn’t fairness we need – it’s mercy).

Wrong ones worse than none:

‘ Judah said to his brothers, “What will we gain if we kill our brother and cover up his blood?  Come, let’s sell him to the Ishmaelites and not lay our hands on him; after all, he is our brother, our own flesh and blood.”  His brothers agreed.   –  Genesis 37.26-27

The brothers were worried about bearing the guilt of Joseph’s death. Judah suggested an option that was not right but would leave them guiltless of murder.  Sometimes we jump at a solution because it is the lesser of two evils, but it is still not the right action to take.  When someone proposes a seemingly workable solution, first ask, “Is it right?”

Explanation of:

Esther 3.10-12

Officials in the ancient world used signet rings as personal signatures.  The ring’s surface had a raised imprint made of metal, wood, or bone; Xerxes’ was probably made of silver or gold.  Each individual had his own imprint.  Letters were sealed by pressing the ring into soft wax, and official documents were certified by using the royal signet.  By giving Haman his signet ring, Xerxes gave him his personal signature and with it the authority to do whatever he wished.  Little did the king realise that his own ring would sign the death warrant for his queen, Esther.

EXTRA:

(Esther 3.9   Haman must have hoped to acquire this tremendous sum of money by plundering the homes and businesses of the Jews who would be killed through his decree.)

whale’s heart.

(Esther 4.11-5.2   Esther risked her life by coming before the king.  Her courageous act gives us a model to follow in approaching a difficult or dangerous task.  Like Esther, we can: (1) Calculate the cost.  Esther realised her life was at stake.  (2) Set priorities.  She believed that the safety of the Jewish race was more important than her life.  (3) Prepare.  She gathered support and fasted.  (4) Determine a course of action and move ahead boldly.  She didn’t think too long about it, allowing the interlude to lessen her commitment to what she had to do.  – –  Do you have to face a hostile audience, confront a friend on a delicate subject, or talk to your family about changes to be made?  Rather than dreading difficult situations or putting them off, take action with confidence by following Esther’s inspiring example.)

Don’t be stingy with those who work for you:

Do not muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain – Deuteronomy 25.4

What is the point of this Old Testament regulation? Oxen were often used to tread out the grain on a threshing floor.  The animal was attached by poles to a large milestone.  As it walked around the milestone, its hooves trampled the grain, separating the kernels from the chaff.  At the same time, the milestone ground the grain into floor.  To muzzle the ox would prevent it from eating while it was working.  Paul used this illustration in the New Testament to argue that people productive in Christian work should not be denied its benefits – they should receive financial support (2 Corinthians 9.10; 1 Timothy 5.17, 18).  The fact that a person is in Christian ministry doesn’t mean he or she should be unfairly paid.  There is also a broader application.  Don’t be stingy with those who work for you.

EXTRA:

A melancholy list of Edgar Allan Poe s debts – from his bankruptcy petition of 1842 macguffin.

(When men have a dispute, they are to take it to court and the judges will decide the case, acquitting the innocent and condemning the guilty. If the guilty man deserves to be beaten, the judge shall make him lie down and have him flogged in his presence with the number of lashes his crime deserves, but he must not give him more than forty lashes.  If he is flogged more than that, your brother will be degraded in your eyes – Deuteronomy 25.1-3.  At first glance these verses appear irrelevant today.  But a closer look reveals some important principles about discipline.  Are you responsible for the discipline of a child, a student, or an employee?  Three important points will help you carry out your responsibility: (1) let the punishment follow quickly after the offence; (2) let the degree of punishment reflect the seriousness of the offence; and (3) don’t overdo the punishment.  Discipline that is swift, just, and restrained makes its point while preserving the dignity of the offender.)

Is that your Macguffin?

It’s time to express yours:

The LORD said to Moses, “Say to the Israelites: ‘Anyone who brings a fellowship offering to the LORD is to bring part of it as his sacrifice to the LORD. With his own hands he is to bring the offering made to the LORD by fire; he is to bring the fat, together with the breast, and wave the breast before the LORD as a wave offering. –  Leviticus 7.28-30

God told the people of Israel to bring their fellowship offerings personally, with their own hands. They were to take time and effort to express thanks to God.  You are the only person who can express thanks to God and to others.  Do you leave it to others to express thanks for what people have done?  Do you rely on the one leading the prayer to thank God for you?  Take time yourself to express thanks both to God and to others who have helped and blessed you.

(The LORD said to Moses, “Say to the Israelites: ‘Do not eat any of the fat of cattle, sheep or goats. The fat of an animal found dead or torn by wild animals may be used for any other purpose, but you must not eat it.  Anyone who eats the fat of an animal from which an offering by fire may be made to the LORD must be cut off from his people.  And wherever you live, you must not eat the blood of any bird or animal.  If anyone eats blood, that person must be cut off from his people.’ “  – Leviticus 2.22-27. The fat portions were regarded as the best portions; therefore, it was appropriate to dedicate them only to God.  Because blood was the river of life, and life was God’s gift and his alone, blood had to be returned to God and not used by people).

(The priest shall burn the fat on the altar, but the breast belongs to Aaron and his sons. You are to give the right thigh of your fellowship offerings to the priest as a contribution.  The son of Aaron who offers the blood and the fat of the fellowship offering shall have the right thigh as his share.  From the fellowship offerings of the Israelites, I have taken the breast that is waved and the thigh that is presented and have given them to Aaron the priest and his sons as their regular share from the Israelites.’ “ This is the portion of the offerings made to the LORD by fire that were allotted to Aaron and his sons on the day they were presented to serve the LORD as priests.  On the day they were anointed, the LORD commanded that the Israelites give this to them as their regular share for the generations to come.  – Leviticus 7.31-36. The offering that was waved before the altar was called the wave offering.  The part of the offering the priests waved was theirs to keep.  The waving motion towards and way from the altar symbolised the offering of the sacrifice to God and his returning it to the priests.  These offerings helped to care for the priests, who cared for God’s house.  The New Testament teaches that ministers should be paid by the people they serve (1 Corinthians 9.10).  We should give generously to those who minister to us).

Developing an attitude of:

The rabble with them began to crave other food, and again the Israelites started wailing and said, “If only we had meat to eat! We remember the fish we ate in Egypt at no cost  – also the cucumbers, melons, leeks, onions and garlic.  But now we have lost our appetite; we never see anything but this manna!” – Numbers 11.4-6

Dissatisfaction comes when our attention shifts from what we have to what we don’t have. The people of Israel didn’t seem to notice what God was doing for them  – setting them free, making them a nation, giving them a new land  – because they were so wrapped up in what God wasn’t doing for them.  They could think of nothing but the delicious Egyptian food they had left behind.  Somehow they forgot that the brutal whip of Egyptian slavery was the cost of eating that food.  Before we judge the Israelites too harshly, it’s helpful to think about what occupies our attention most of the time.  Are we grateful for what God has given us, or are we always thinking about what we would like to have?  We should not allow our unfulfilled desires to cause us to forget God’s gift of life, food, health, work, and friends.

(The rabble refers to a mixed crowd of Egyptians and others who had followed Israel out of Egypt (Exodus 12.38)).

(Now the people complained about their hardships in the hearing of the LORD, and when he heard them his anger was aroused. Then fire from the LORD burned among them and consumed some of the outskirts of the camp.. . But now we have lost our appetite; we never see anything but this manna!”  The manna was like coriander seed and looked like resin.  The people went around gathering it, and then ground it in a hand mill or crushed it in a mortar.  They cooked it in a pot or made it into cakes.  And it tasted like something made with olive oil.  When the dew settled on the camp at night, the manna also came down.  Moses heard the people of every family wailing, each at the entrance to his tent.  The LORD became exceedingly angry, and Moses was troubled.  He asked the LORD, “Why have you brought this trouble on your servant?  What have I done to displease you that you put the burden of all these people on me?  Did I conceive all these people?  Did I give them birth?  Why do you tell me to carry them in my arms, as a nurse carries an infant, to the land you promised on oath to their forefathers?  Where can I get meat for all these people?  They keep wailing to me, ‘Give us meat to eat!’  I cannot carry all these people by myself; the burden is too heavy for me.  If this is how you are going to treat me, put me to death right now  – if I have found favour in your eyes  – do not let me face my own ruin.”  The LORD said to Moses: “Bring me seventy of Israel’s elders who are known to you as leaders and officials among the people.  Make them come to the Tent of Meeting, that they may stand there with you.  – Numbers 11.1, 6-15. The Israelites complained, and then Moses complained.  But God responded positively to Moses and negatively to the rest of the people.  Why?  The people complained to one another, and nothing was accomplished.  Moses took his complaint to God, who could solve any problem.  Many of us are good at complaining to each other.  We need to learn to take our problems to the One who can do something about them).

(Every morning the Israelites drew back their tent doors and witnessed a miracle. Covering the ground was white, fluffy manna  – food from heaven.  But soon that wasn’t enough.  Fleeing it was their right to have more, they forgot what they already had.  They didn’t ask God to fill their need; instead they demanded meat, and they stopped trusting God to care for them.  “If only we had meat to eat!” they complained to Moses as they reminisced about the good food they had in Egypt.  God gave them what they asked for, but they paid dearly for it when a plague struck the camp (see 11.18-20, 31-34).  When you ask God for something, he may grant your request.  But if you approach him with a sinful attitude, getting what you want may prove costly).

Then the officers who were over the units of the army – the commanders of thousands and commanders of hundreds  – went to Moses and said to him, “Your servants have counted the soldiers under our command, and not one is missing.  So we have brought as an offering to the LORD the gold articles each of us acquired  – armlets, bracelets, signet rings, ear-rings and necklaces  – to make atonement for ourselves before the LORD.  – Numbers 31.48-50

After carefully account for all their men, the officers discovered that not one soldier had been lost in battle. At once they thanked God.  After going through tough times, we should be quick to thank God for delivering us and protecting us from severe loss.

(The LORD said to Moses, “You and Eleazar the priest and the family heads of the community are to count all the people and animals that were captured. Divide the spoils between the soldiers who took part in the battle and the rest of the community.  From the soldiers who fought in the battle, set apart as tribute for the LORD one out of every five hundred, whether persons, cattle, donkeys, sheep or goats.  Take this tribute from their half share and give it to Eleazar the priest as the LORD’s part.  From the Israelites half, select one out of every fifty, whether persons, cattle, donkeys, sheep, goats or other animals.  Give them to the Levites, who are responsible for the care of the LORD’s tabernacle.”  – Numbers 31.25-30. Moses told the Israelites to give a portion of the war spoils to God.  Another portion was to go to the people who remained behind.  Similarly, the money we earn is not ours alone.  Everything we possess comes directly or indirectly from God and ultimately belongs to him.  We should return a portion to him (a “tribute”) and also share a portion with those in need).

(The Reubenites and Gadites, who had very large herds and flocks, saw that the lands of Jazer and Gilead were suitable for livestock.  – Numbers 32.1ff.  Three tribes (Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh) wanted to live east of the Jordan River (referred to as the Transjordan area) on land they had already conquered.  Moses immediately assumed they had selfish motives and were trying to avoid helping the others fight for the land across the river.  But Moses jumped to the wrong conclusion.  In dealing with people, we must find out all the facts before making up our minds.  We shouldn’t automatically assume that their motives are wrong, even if their plans sound suspicious).

Should be continuous part of life:

He appointed some of the Levites to minister before the ark of the LORD, to make petition, to give thanks, and to praise the LORD, the God of Israel – 1 Chronicles 16.4

Certain Levites were appointed to give continual praise and thanks to God. Praise and thanksgiving should be a regular part of our routine, not reserved only for celebrations.  Praise God continually, and you will find that you won’t take his blessings for granted.

(As the ark of the covenant of the LORD was entering the City of David, Michal daughter of Saul watched from a window. And when she saw King David dancing and celebrating, she despised him in her heart.  – 1 Chronicles 15.29. David was willing to look foolish in the eyes of some people in order to express his thankfulness to God fully and honestly.  In contrast, Michal was so disgusted by his “undignified” actions that she could not rejoice in the ark’s return to Jerusalem.  Worship had so deteriorated under her father Saul’s reign that it had become stilted and ritualistic.  Michal could accept David as a military conqueror and as a king, but she could not accept his free and spontaneous expression of praise to God.  Some devoted people may look foolish to us in their heartfelt expressions of worship, but we must accept them.  In the same way, we should not be afraid to worship God with whatever expressions seem appropriate).

It is good to praise the LORD and make music to your name, O Most High, to proclaim your love in the morning and your faithfulness at night, to the music of the ten-stringed lyre and the melody of the harp.  – Psalms 92.1-2

When things are going well, we focus on our blessings and express our gratitude to God for them. But thanks should be on our lips every day.  We can never say thank you enough to parents, friends, leaders, and especially to God.  When thanksgiving becomes an integral part of your life, you will find that your attitude towards life will change.  You will become more positive, gracious, loving, and humble.

(For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways  – Psalms 91.11. One of the functions of angels is to watch over believers (Hebrews 1:14).  There are examples of guardian angels in Scripture (1 Kings 19.5; Daniel 6.22; Matthew 18.10; Luke 16.22; Acts 12.7), although there is no indication that one angel is assigned to each believer.  Angels can also be God’s messengers (Matthew 2.13; Acts 27.23, 24).  Angels are not visible, except on special occasions (Numbers 22.31; Luke 2.9).  Verses 11 and 12 were quoted by Satan when he tempted Jesus (Matthew 4.6; Luke 4.10, 11).  It is comforting to know that God watches over us even in times of great stress and fear).

(The righteous will flourish like a palm tree, they will grow like a cedar of Lebanon; planted in the house of the LORD, they will flourish in the courts of our God. – Psalms 92.12, 13. Palm trees are known for their long life.  To flourish like palm trees means to stand tall and to live long.  The cedars of Lebanon grew to 120 feet in height and up to 30 feet in circumference; thus, they were solid, strong, and immovable.  The psalmist saw believers as upright, strong, and unmoved by the winds of circumstance.  Those who place their faith firmly in God can have this strength and vitality).

Elements of:

That day David first committed to Asaph and his associates this psalm of thanks to the LORD:

Give thanks to the LORD, call on his name; make known among the nations what he has done. Sing to him, sing praise to him; tell of all his wonderful acts.  Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the LORD rejoice.  Look to the LORD and his strength; seek his face always.  Remember the wonders he has done, his miracles, and the judgments he pronounced, O descendants of Israel his servant, O sons of Jacob, his chosen ones.

He is the LORD our God; his judgments are in all the earth. He remembers his covenant for ever, the word he commanded, for a thousand generations, the covenant he made with Abraham, the oath he swore to Isaac.  He confirmed it to Jacob as a decree, to Israel as an everlasting covenant: “To you I will give the land of Canaan as the portion you will inherit.”

When they were but few in number, few indeed, and strangers in it, they wandered from nation to nation, from one kingdom to another. He allowed no man to oppress them; for their sake he rebuked kings: “Do not touch my anointed ones; do my prophets no harm.”

Sing to the LORD, all the earth; proclaim his salvation day after day. Declare his glory among the nations, his marvellous deeds among all peoples.  For great is the LORD and most worthy of praise; he is to be feared above all gods.  For all the gods of the nations are idols, but the LORD made the heavens.  Splendour and majesty are before him; strength and joy in his dwelling-place.  Ascribe to the LORD, O families of nations, ascribe to the LORD glory and strength, ascribe to the LORD the glory due to his name.  Bring an offering and come before him; worship the LORD in the splendour of his holiness.  Tremble before him, all the earth!  The world is firmly established; it cannot be moved.  Let the heavens rejoice, let the earth be glad; let them say among the nations, “The LORD reigns!”  Let the sea resound, and all that is in it; let the fields be jubilant, and everything in them!  Then the trees of the forest will sing, they will sing for joy before the LORD, for he comes to judge the earth.

Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures for ever. Cry out, “Save us, O God our Saviour; gather us and deliver us from the nations, that we may give thanks to your holy name, that we may glory in your praise.”  Praise be to the LORD, the God of Israel, from everlasting to everlasting.

Then all the people said “Amen” and “Praise the LORD.” – 1 Chronicles 16.7-36

Four elements of true thanksgiving are found in this song (psalm): (1) remembering what God has done, (2) telling others about it, (3) showing God’s glory to others, and (4) offering gifts of self, time, and resources.  If you are truly thankful, your life will show it.

(Several parts of this psalm are parallel to songs in the book of Psalms: 16:8-22 with Psalms 105.1-15; 16.23-33 with Psalms 96; 16.34-36 with Psalms 106.1, 47, 48).

(This covenant was given to Abraham (Genesis 15.18-21), and then passed on to Isaac (Genesis 26.24, 25) and Jacob (Genesis 28.13-15). God promised to give the land of Canaan (present-day Israel) to their descendants.  He also promised that the Messiah would come from their line).

(The basis of praise is declaring God’s character and attributes in the presence of others. When we recognise and affirm his goodness we are holding up his perfect moral nature for all to see.  Praise benefits us because it takes our minds off our problems and needs and focuses on God’s power, mercy, majesty, and love).

(Genuine praise also involves ascribing glory to God. Remember this in your worship  – give God all the glory).

(David left Asaph and his associates before the ark of the covenant of the LORD to minister there regularly, according to each day’s requirements  – 1 Chronicles 16.37. Asaph and his fellow Levites ministered in the temple, doing each day whatever was needed.  To carry out God’s work is not merely to engage in religious exercises.  It includes other necessary tasks.  Even if you don’t have the opportunity to teach or preach, God can use you in the ministry.  What needs to be done?  Cleaning, serving, singing, planning, administering?  Look for ways to minister each day).

In all areas of life:

I will praise you, O LORD, with all my heart; before the “gods” I will sing your praise. I will bow down towards your holy temple and will praise your name  for your love and your faithfulness, for you have exalted above all things your name and your word.  When I called, you answered me; you made me bold and stout-hearted.  – Psalms 138.1-3

Thanksgiving should be an integral part of our praise to God. This theme is woven throughout the psalms.  As we praise and thank God for material and spiritual blessings, we should also thank him for answered prayer.  Remember when you asked God for protection, strength, comfort, patience, love, or other special needs, and he supplied them?  Beware of taking God’s provision and answered prayer for granted.

(“Before the gods” may mean in the presence of subordinate heavenly beings (angels), or, more likely, it may be a statement ridiculing the kings or gods of the pagan nations. God is the highest in the whole earth).

(O Daughter of Babylon, doomed to destruction, happy is he who repays you for what you have done to us – he who seizes your infants and dashes them against the rocks.  – Psalms 137:8, 9. God destroyed Babylon and its offspring for their proud assault against God and his kingdom.  The Medes and Persians destroyed Babylon in 539 B.C.  Many of those who were oppressed lived to see the victory.  The phrase about the infants is harsh because the psalmist is crying out for judgment: “Treat the Babylonians the way they treated us”).

(The LORD will fulfil his purpose, for me; your love, O LORD, endures for ever – do not abandon the works of your hands.  – Psalms 138.8. Every person dreams and makes plans for the future.  Then they work hard to see those dreams and plans come true.  But to make the most of life, we must include God’s plan in our plans.  He alone knows what is best for us; he alone can fulfil his purpose for us.  As you make plans and dream dreams, talk with God about them).

Demonstrated by the leper:

He threw himself at Jesus’ feet and thanked him – and he was a Samaritan. – Luke 17.16

Jesus healed all ten lepers, but only one returned to thank him. It is possible to receive God’s great gifts with an ungrateful spirit  – nine of the ten men did so.  Only the thankful man, however, learned that his faith had played a role in his healing; and only grateful Christians grow in understanding God’s grace.  God does not demand that we thank him, but he is pleased when we do so.  And he uses our responsiveness to teach us more about himself.

(Not only was this man a leper, he was also a Samaritan – a race despised by the Jews as idolatrous half-breeds (see the note on 10.33).  Once again Luke is pointing out that God’s grace is for everybody).

Thank those who have helped you:

Taking him by the right hand, he helped him up, and instantly the man’s feet and ankles became strong. He jumped to his feet and began to walk.  Then he went with them into the temple courts, walking and jumping, and praising God.  When all the people saw him walking and praising God, they recognised him as the same man who used to sit begging at the temple gate called Beautiful, and they were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him.  – Acts 3.7-10

In his excitement, the formerly crippled man began to jump and walk around. He also praised God!  And then others were also awed by God’s power.  Don’t forget to thank people who help you, but also remember to praise God for his care and protection.

(Then Peter said, “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.”  – Acts 3.6. “In the name of Jesus Christ” means “by the authority of Jesus Christ”.  The apostles were doing this healing through the Holy Spirit’s power, not their own).

(While the beggar held on to Peter and John, all the people were astonished and came running to them in the place called Solomon’s Colonnade.  – Acts 3.11 Solomon’s Colonnade was a covered porch or entrance with columns).

(Peter had an audience, and he capitalised on the opportunity to share Jesus Christ. He clearly presented his message by telling (1) who Jesus is, (2) how the Jews had rejected him, (3) why their rejection was fatal, and (4) what they needed to do to change the situation.  Peter told the crowd that they still had a choice: God still offered them the opportunity to believe and receive Jesus as their Messiah and as their Lord.  Displays of God’s mercy and grace, such as the healing of this crippled man, often create teachable moments.  Pray to have courage like Peter to see these opportunities and to use them to speak up for Christ).

About the spiritual gifts of others:

We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man’s gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith.  If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully.  – Romans 12.6-8

Look at this list of gifts and imagine the kinds of people who would have each gift. Prophets are often bold and articulate.  Servers are faithful and loyal.  Teachers are clear thinkers.  Encouragers know how to motivate others.  Givers are generous and trusting.  Leaders are good organisers and managers.  Those who show mercy are caring people who are happy to give their time to others.  It would be difficult for one person to embody all these gifts.  An assertive prophet would not usually make a good counsellor, and a generous giver might fail as a leader.  When you identify your own gifts (and this list is far from complete), ask how you can use them to build up God’s family.  At the same time, realise that your gifts can’t do the work of the church all alone.  Be thankful for people whose gifts are completely different from yours.  Let your strengths balance their weaknesses, and be grateful that their abilities make up for your deficiencies.  Together you can build Christ’s church.

(God gifs us gifts so we can build up his church. To use them effectively, we must (1) realise that all gifts and abilities come from God; (2) understand that not everyone has the same gifts; (3) know who we are and what we do best; (4) dedicate our gifts to God’s service and not to our personal success; (5) be willing to utilise our gifts wholeheartedly, not holding back anything from God’s service).

(God’s gifts differ in nature, power, and effectiveness according to his wisdom and graciousness, not according to our faith. The “measure of faith” (12.3) or the “proportion to his faith” means that God will give spiritual power necessary and appropriate to carry out each responsibility.  We cannot, by our own effort or willpower, drum up more faith and thus be more effective teachers or servants.  These are God’s gifts to his church, and he gives faith and power as he wills.  Our role is to be faithful and to seek ways to serve others with what Christ has given us).

(Prophesying in Scripture is not always predicting the future.  Often it means preaching God’s messages (1 Corinthians 14.1-3)).

(Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good.  – Romans 12.9. Most of us have learned how to pretend to love others  – how to speak kindly, avoid hurting their feelings, and appear to take an interest in them.  We may even be skilled in pretending to feel moved with compassion when we hear of others’ needs, or to become indignant when we learn of injustice.  But God calls us to real and sincere love that goes far beyond pretence and politeness.  Sincere love requires concentration and effort.  It means helping others become better people.  It demands our time, money, and personal involvement.  No individual has the capacity to express love to a whole community, but the body of Christ in your town does.  Look for people who need your love, and look for ways you and your fellow believers can love your community for Christ).

Proper response to salvation:

For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God  – not by works, so that no-one can boast.  – Ephesians 2.8-9

When someone gives you a gift, do you say, “That’s very nice – -now how much do I owe you?”? No, the appropriate response to a gift is “Thank you”.  Yet how often Christians, even after they have been given the gift of salvation, feel obligated to try to work their way to God.  Because our salvation and even our faith are gifts, we should respond with gratitude, praise, and joy.

(And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus  – Ephesians 2.6. Because of Christ’s resurrection, we know that our bodies will also be raised from the dead (1 Corinthians 15.2-23) and that we have been given the power to live as Christians now (1.19).  These ideas are combined in Paul’s image of sitting with Christ in “the heavenly realms” (see the note on 1.3).  Our eternal life with Christ is certain because we are united in his powerful victory).

Should move us to action:

For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God  – not by works, so that no-one can boast. For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.  – Ephesians 2.8-10

We become Christians through God’s unmerited grace, not as the result of any effort, ability, intelligent choice, or act of service on our part. However, out of gratitude for this free gift, we will seek to help and serve others with kindness, love, and gentleness, and not merely to please ourselves.  While no action or work we do can help us obtain salvation, God’s intention is that our salvation will result in acts of service.  We are not saved merely for our own benefit but to serve Christ and build up the church (4.12).

(We are God’s workmanship (work of art, masterpiece). Our salvation is something only God can do.  It is his powerful, creative work in us.  If God considers us his work of art, we dare not treat ourselves or others with disrespect or as inferior work).

(Therefore, remember that formerly you who are Gentiles by birth and called “uncircumcised” by those who call themselves “the circumcision” (that done in the body by the hand of men) – remember that at that time you were separate from Christ, excluded from citizenship in Israel and foreigners to the covenants of the promise, without hope and without God in the world.  But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.  – Ephesians 2.11-13. Pious Jews (“the circumcision”) considered all non-Jews (the “uncircumcised”) ceremonially unclean.  They thought of themselves as pure and clean because of their national heritage and religious ceremonies.  Paul pointed out that Jews and Gentiles alike were unclean before God and needed to be cleansed by Christ.  In order to realise how great a gift salvation is, we need to remember our former natural, unclean condition.  Have you ever felt separate, excluded, hopeless?  These verses are for you.  No-one is alienated from Christ’s love or from the body of believers).

For God’s available strength:

…always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. – Ephesians 5.20

When you feel down, you may find it difficult to give thanks. Take heart  – in all things God works for our good if we love him and are called according to his purpose (Romans 8.28).  Thank God, not for your problems, but for the strength he is building in you through the difficult experiences of your life.  You can be sure that God’s perfect love will see you through.

(Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit. – Ephesians 5.18. Paul contrasts getting drunk with wine, which produces a temporary “high”, to being filled with the Spirit, which produces lasting joy.  Getting drunk with wine is associated with the old way of life and its selfish desires.  In Christ, we have a better joy, higher and longer lasting, to cure our depression, monotony, or tension.  We should not be concerned with how much of the Holy Spirit we have, but how much of us the Holy Spirit has.  Submit yourself daily to his leading and draw constantly on his power).

(Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. Wives, submit to your husbands as to the Lord.  – Ephesians 5.21, 22. Submitting to another person is an often misunderstood concept.  It does not mean becoming a doormat.  Christ  – at whose name “every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth” (Philippians 2.10)  – submitted his will to the Father, and we honour Christ by following his example.  When we submit to God, we become more willing to obey his command to submit to others, that is, to subordinate our rights to theirs.  In a marriage relationship, both husband and wife are called to submit.  For the wife, this means willingly following her husband’s leadership in Christ.  For the husband, it means putting aside his own interests in order to care for his wife.  Submission is rarely a problem in homes where both partners have a strong relationship with Christ and where each is concerned for the happiness of the other).

For those who bring you joy:

How can we thank God enough for you? Night and day we pray most earnestly that we may see you again and supply what is lacking in your faith.  – 1 Thessalonians 3.9-10

It brings great joy to a Christian to see another person come to faith in Christ and mature in that faith. Paul experienced this joy countless times.  He thanks God for those who had come to know Christ and for their strong faith.  He also prayed for their continued growth.  If there are new Christians who have brought you joy, thank God for them and support them as they continue to grow in the faith.

(Therefore, brothers, in all our distress and persecution we were encouraged about you because of your faith. For now we really live, since you are standing firm in the Lord.  – 1 Thessalonians 3.7, 8. During persecution or pressure, believers should encourage one another.  Christians who stand firm in the Lord encourage both ministers and teachers (who can see the benefit of their work in those who remain faithful), and also those who are new in their faith (who can learn from the steadfastness of the mature)).

(Now may our God and Father himself and our Lord Jesus clear the way for us to come to you.  – 1 Thessalonians 3.11. Paul wanted to return to Thessalonica.  We have no record that he was able to do so; but when he was travelling through Asia on his third journey, he was joined by Aristarchus and Secundus, who were from Thessalonica (Acts 20.4, 5)).

Express it to church leaders:

Now we ask you, brothers, to respect those who work hard among you, who are over you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work.  Live in peace with each other.  – 1 Thessalonians 5.12-13

How can you show respect to and hold in the “highest regard” your pastor and other church leaders? Express your appreciation, tell them how you have been helped by their leadership and teaching, and thank them for their ministry in your life.  If you say nothing, how will they know where you stand?  Remember, they need and deserve your support and love.

(“Those who work hard among you, who are over you in the Lord” probably refers to elders and deacons in the church).

(For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ. He died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him.  Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.  – 1 Thessalonians 5.9-11. As you near the end of a long race, your legs ache, your throat burns, and your whole body cries out for you to stop.  This is when friends and fans are most valuable.  Their encouragement helps you push through the pain to the finish line.  In the same way, Christians are to encourage one another.  A word of encouragement offered at the right moment can be the difference between finishing well and collapsing along the way.  Look around you.  Be sensitive to others’ need for encouragement, and offer supportive words or actions).

(And we urge you, brothers, warn those who are idle, encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone.  – 1 Thessalonians 5.14. Don’t loaf around with the idle; warn them.  Don’t yell at the timid and weak; encourage and help them.  At times it’s difficult to distinguish between idleness and timidity.  Two people may be doing nothing  – one out of laziness and the other out of shyness or fear of doing something wrong.  The key to ministry is sensitivity: sensing the condition of each person and offering the appropriate remedy for each situation.  You can’t help effectively until you know the problem.  You can’t apply the medicine until you know where the wound is).

How to give thanks in everything:

…give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. – 1 Thessalonians 5.18

Paul was not teaching that we should thank God for everything that happens to us, but in everything.  Evil does not come from God, so we should not thank him for it.  But when evil strikes, we can still be thankful for God’s presence and for the good that he will accomplish through the distress.

(Our joy, prayers, and thankfulness should not fluctuate with our circumstances or feelings. Obeying these three commands  – be joyful, pray continually, and give thanks  – often goes against our natural inclinations.  When we make a conscious decision to do what God says, however, we will begin to see people in a new perspective.  When we do God’s will, we will find it easier to be joyful and thankful).

(..pray continually – 1 Thessalonians 5.17. We cannot spend all our time on our knees, but it is possible to have a prayerful attitude at all times.  This attitude is built upon acknowledging our dependence on God, realising his presence within us, and determining to obey him fully.  Then we will find it natural to pray frequent, spontaneous, short prayers.  A prayerful attitude is not a substitute for regular times of prayer but should be an outgrowth of those times).

(Do not put out the Spirit’s fire  – 1 Thessalonians 5.19. By warning us not to “put out the Spirit’s fire”, Paul means that we should not ignore or toss aside the gifts the Holy Spirit gives.  Here, he mentions prophecy (5.20); in 1 Corinthians 14.39, he mentions tongues.  Sometimes spiritual gifts are controversial, and they may cause division in a church.  Rather than trying to solve the problems, some Christians prefer to smother the gifts.  This impoverishes the church.  We should not stifle the Holy Spirit’s work in anyone’s life but encourage the full expression of these gifts to benefit the whole body of Christ).