Exodus 21:2-6
"If you buy a Hebrew slave, he shall serve for six years; but on the seventh he shall go out as a free man without payment. "If he comes alone, he shall go out alone; if he is the husband of a wife, then his wife shall go out with him. "If his master gives him a wife, and she bears him sons or daughters, the wife and her children shall belong to her master, and he shall go out alone. "But if the slave plainly says, 'I love my master, my wife and my children; I will not go out as a free man, then his master shall bring him to God, then he shall bring him to the door or the doorpost. And his master shall pierce his ear with an awl; and he shall serve him permanently.
Commentary:
God was instituting ordinances for the people to follow in the ways of dealing with their servants. When a master purchased a male slave to take care of the needs of the master; after six years, the male slave could go free. However, if the master chose to give the male slave a slave woman as a wife; and she had children for him, the children, and the wife still belonged to the master. If after six years, the male slave wanted to go free, then he could; but he would have to leave his wife and children behild.
This appears to be cruel treatment at first glance. However, it is indeed provisional care and love for the woman. If the male decided that he would be better off on his own, running his own life, and making all of his own decisions; and that he no longer needed authority over him; then it is best that he leaves by himself. If he decided that he did not love his master enough to stay and serve him; it would only be a matter of time that he decided that he did not love his wife and children; enough to stay with them as well.
If the male decides to stay with the master, the wife and the children; then he truly loves them all, more than he loves himself. This is the love that stays; and refuses to leave those he loves behind; to fend for themselves. The master gave the slave a wife to love, and to be loved; because the slave was indeed a good worker. The wife that the master gave him, was his reward for a job well done. It was not a cruel move of the master to make the slave have to make a decision of whether to stay in bondage for the rest of his life. It was a gesture of love, care and concern. God is the one who sets the solitary in families.
Reflection:
If a man truly loves God, and the wife that God has given him; the last thing on his mind would be to leave her. No one, or no thing, can make him relinquish his professed love for his Savior, or his wife. But, if he does not love the Lord with all of his heart, mind, soul and strength; it's just a matter of time before the evidence of selfish-love enters the equation. Selfish love, however, has no gender whatsoever; and can spring up in the heart of both man, and woman. Therefore, the commitment to the Lord on the part of both parties, must be intact; otherwise a separation on some level in the relationship is bound to occur. Therefore, it is important for both the man, and the woman, to have a solid relationship with God; to build the kind of love that stays.
If a person says that they love you, but they have left you, emotionally, physically, verbally or otherwise, do they really love you?
Strong's Exhaustive Concordance:
the slave: 5650
1) slave, servant
a) slave, servant, man-servant
b) subjects
c) servants, worshippers (of God)
d) servant (in special sense as prophets, Levites etc)
e) servant (of Israel)
f) servant (as form of address between equals)
plainly says: 559
1) to say, speak, utter
a) (Qal) to say, to answer, to say in one's heart, to think, to command, to promise, to intend
b) (Niphal) to be told, to be said, to be called
c) (Hithpael) to boast, to act proudly
d) (Hiphil) to avow, to avouch
I love: 157
1) to love
a) (Qal)
1) human love for another, includes family, and sexual
2) human appetite for objects such as food, drink, sleep, wisdom
3) human love for or to God
4) act of being a friend
a) lover (participle)
b) friend (participle)
5) God's love toward man
a) to individual men
b) to people Israel
c) to righteousness
b) (Niphal)
1) lovely (participle)
2) loveable (participle)
c) (Piel)
1) friends
2) lovers (fig. of adulterers)
2) to like
my master: 113
1) firm, strong, lord, master
a) lord, master
1) reference to men
a) superintendent of household,of affairs
b) master
c) king
2) reference to God
a) the Lord God
b) Lord of the whole earth
b) lords, kings
1) reference to men
a) proprietor of hill of Samaria
b) master
c) husband
d) prophet
e) governor
f) prince
g) king
2) reference to God
a) Lord of lords (probably = "thy husband, Yahweh")
c) my lord, my master
1) reference to men
a) master
b) husband
c) prophet
d) prince
e) king
f) father
g) Moses
h) priest
i) theophanic angel
j) captain
k) general recognition of superiority
2) reference to God
a) my Lord,my Lord and my God
b) Adonai (parallel with Yahweh)
my wife: 802
1) woman, wife, female
a) woman (opposite of man)
b) wife (woman married to a man)
c) female (of animals)
d) each, every (pronoun)
my children: 1121
1) son, grandson, child, member of a group
a) son, male child
b) grandson
c) children (pl. - male and female)
d) youth, young men (pl.)
e) young (of animals)
f) sons (as characterisation, i.e. sons of injustice [for un- righteous men] or sons of God [for angels]
g) people (of a nation) (pl.)
h) of lifeless things, i.e. sparks, stars, arrows (fig.)
i) a member of a guild, order, class
I will not go: 3318
1) to go out, come out, exit, go forth
a) (Qal)
1) to go or come out or forth, depart
2) to go forth (to a place)
3) to go forward, proceed to (to or toward something)
4) to come or go forth (with purpose or for result)
5) to come out of
b) (Hiphil)
1) to cause to go or come out, bring out, lead out
2) to bring out of
3) to lead out
4) to deliver
c) (Hophal) to be brought out or forth
as a free man: 2670
1) free
a) free (from slavery)
b) free (from taxes or obligations)
References:
Blue Letter Bible. "Book of Exodus 21 - (NASB - New American Standard Bible)." Blue Letter Bible. 1996-2010. 30 Jan 2010. http://www.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=Exd&c=21&t=NASB
Higgins, S. (2010). Love That Stays. Devotions for Thought. Higgins Publishing. Http://devotionsforthought.blogspot.com, Http://www.higginspublishing.com
Saturday
Thursday
The Purpose of Boundaries
Scripture: Exodus 9:12
"You shall set bounds for the people all around, saying, 'Beware that you do not go up on the mountain or touch the border of it; whoever touches the mountain shall surely be put to death.
Commentary:
God set an example for us on how we should conduct ourselves in establishing relationships from the very beginning. He gave Moses specific instructions on what to tell the people, in regard to them approaching Him. The time had come for the people to consecrate themselves to God for a period of two days. On the third day, God would come into the midst of the people. However, God specifically told Moses what to tell the people.
The people in whom God delivered out of the hands of Pharaoh, would now be consecrated to God by devoting themselves to Him for a period of two days, and washing their garments. God also told Moses to set boundaries around Mount Sinai, so that the people would not go upon the mountain, or touch it. If anyone tried to go upon the mountain, or if anyone touched the mountain, they would die.
God set boundaries at the very beginning of His relationship with the children of Israel. They were to be set apart by consecrating themselves to Him, and they could not go to Him any kind of way. He put in place what He would, and would not accept from them. If they were obedient to the boundary that God had put in place they would flourish, but if they were not, they would die. There was no miscommunication on God's part. He made it perfectly clear from the beginning.
Reflection:
God has shown us how our relationships should be through His implementation of boundaries at Mount Sinai. We should communicate with eachother to the best of our ability; especially at the beginning of a friendship, and/or relationship with someone. Each person should have a clear understanding of one another's purpose, desires, and requests. Additionally, it should be made clear what one will, and will not accept in the relationship. Therefore, the chance of misunderstandings springing up, will be greatly diminished, if not obsolete.
When boundaries are crossed in a relationship, it shows a lack of respect for the one who has set their own personal boundaries; which will cause the relationship to diminish over time. If the relationship is not restored with respect for the boundaries of either party, the relationship will end. Respecting one another as children of God continually, will help us to build stronger relationships; that do not cross boundary lines, that have been established by God.
you shall set bounds: 1379
1) to bound, border
a) (Qal) to bound, border
b) (Hiphil) to set bounds, set bounds for
for the people: 5971
1) nation, people
a) people, nation
b) persons, members of one's people, compatriots, country-men
2) kinsman, kindred
all around: 5439
subst
1) places round about, circuit, round about
adv
2) in a circuit, a circuit, round about
prep
3) in the circuit, from every side
that you do not go: 5927
1) to go up, ascend, climb
a) (Qal)
1) to go up, ascend
2) to meet, visit, follow, depart, withdraw, retreat
3) to go up, come up (of animals)
4) to spring up, grow, shoot forth (of vegetation)
5) to go up, go up over, rise (of natural phenomenon)
6) to come up (before God)
7) to go up, go up over, extend (of boundary)
8) to excel, be superior to
b) (Niphal)
1) to be taken up, be brought up, be taken away
2) to take oneself away
3) to be exalted
c) (Hiphil)
1) to bring up, cause to ascend or climb, cause to go up
2) to bring up, bring against, take away
3) to bring up, draw up, train
4) to cause to ascend
5) to rouse, stir up (mentally)
6) to offer, bring up (of gifts)
7) to exalt
8) to cause to ascend, offer
d) (Hophal)
1) to be carried away, be led up
2) to be taken up into, be inserted in
3) to be offered
e) (Hithpael) to lift oneself
up on the mountain: 2022
1) hill, mountain, hill country, mount
or touch: 5060
1) to touch, reach, strike
a) (Qal)
1) to touch
2) to strike
3) to reach, extend to
4) to be stricken
a) stricken (participle)
b) (Niphal) to be stricken, be defeated
c) (Piel) to strike
d) (Pual) to be stricken (by disease)
e) (Hiphil) to cause to touch, reach, approach, arrive
1) to cause to touch, apply
2) to reach, extend, attain, arrive, come
3) to approach (of time)
4) to befall (of fate)
the border: 7097
1) end, extremity
a) end, mouth, extremity
b) border, outskirts
c) the whole (condensed term for what is included within extremities)
d) at the end of (a certain time)
of if, whoever: 3605
1) all, the whole
a) all, the whole of
b) any, each, every, anything
c) totality, everything
shall surely be put to death: 4191
1) to die, kill, have one executed
a) (Qal)
1) to die
2) to die (as penalty), be put to death
3) to die, perish (of a nation)
4) to die prematurely (by neglect of wise moral conduct)
b) (Polel) to kill, put to death, dispatch
c) (Hiphil) to kill, put to death
d) (Hophal)
1) to be killed, be put to death
a) to die prematurely
References:
Blue Letter Bible. "Book of Exodus 19 - (NASB - New American Standard Bible)." Blue Letter Bible. 1996-2010. 28 Jan 2010. http://www.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=Exd&c=19&t=NASB
Higgins, S. (2010). The Purpose of Boundaries. Devotions for Thought. Higgins Publishing. Http://www.devotionsforthought.blogspot.com, Http://www.higginspublishing.com
"You shall set bounds for the people all around, saying, 'Beware that you do not go up on the mountain or touch the border of it; whoever touches the mountain shall surely be put to death.
Commentary:
God set an example for us on how we should conduct ourselves in establishing relationships from the very beginning. He gave Moses specific instructions on what to tell the people, in regard to them approaching Him. The time had come for the people to consecrate themselves to God for a period of two days. On the third day, God would come into the midst of the people. However, God specifically told Moses what to tell the people.
The people in whom God delivered out of the hands of Pharaoh, would now be consecrated to God by devoting themselves to Him for a period of two days, and washing their garments. God also told Moses to set boundaries around Mount Sinai, so that the people would not go upon the mountain, or touch it. If anyone tried to go upon the mountain, or if anyone touched the mountain, they would die.
God set boundaries at the very beginning of His relationship with the children of Israel. They were to be set apart by consecrating themselves to Him, and they could not go to Him any kind of way. He put in place what He would, and would not accept from them. If they were obedient to the boundary that God had put in place they would flourish, but if they were not, they would die. There was no miscommunication on God's part. He made it perfectly clear from the beginning.
Reflection:
God has shown us how our relationships should be through His implementation of boundaries at Mount Sinai. We should communicate with eachother to the best of our ability; especially at the beginning of a friendship, and/or relationship with someone. Each person should have a clear understanding of one another's purpose, desires, and requests. Additionally, it should be made clear what one will, and will not accept in the relationship. Therefore, the chance of misunderstandings springing up, will be greatly diminished, if not obsolete.
When boundaries are crossed in a relationship, it shows a lack of respect for the one who has set their own personal boundaries; which will cause the relationship to diminish over time. If the relationship is not restored with respect for the boundaries of either party, the relationship will end. Respecting one another as children of God continually, will help us to build stronger relationships; that do not cross boundary lines, that have been established by God.
you shall set bounds: 1379
1) to bound, border
a) (Qal) to bound, border
b) (Hiphil) to set bounds, set bounds for
for the people: 5971
1) nation, people
a) people, nation
b) persons, members of one's people, compatriots, country-men
2) kinsman, kindred
all around: 5439
subst
1) places round about, circuit, round about
adv
2) in a circuit, a circuit, round about
prep
3) in the circuit, from every side
that you do not go: 5927
1) to go up, ascend, climb
a) (Qal)
1) to go up, ascend
2) to meet, visit, follow, depart, withdraw, retreat
3) to go up, come up (of animals)
4) to spring up, grow, shoot forth (of vegetation)
5) to go up, go up over, rise (of natural phenomenon)
6) to come up (before God)
7) to go up, go up over, extend (of boundary)
8) to excel, be superior to
b) (Niphal)
1) to be taken up, be brought up, be taken away
2) to take oneself away
3) to be exalted
c) (Hiphil)
1) to bring up, cause to ascend or climb, cause to go up
2) to bring up, bring against, take away
3) to bring up, draw up, train
4) to cause to ascend
5) to rouse, stir up (mentally)
6) to offer, bring up (of gifts)
7) to exalt
8) to cause to ascend, offer
d) (Hophal)
1) to be carried away, be led up
2) to be taken up into, be inserted in
3) to be offered
e) (Hithpael) to lift oneself
up on the mountain: 2022
1) hill, mountain, hill country, mount
or touch: 5060
1) to touch, reach, strike
a) (Qal)
1) to touch
2) to strike
3) to reach, extend to
4) to be stricken
a) stricken (participle)
b) (Niphal) to be stricken, be defeated
c) (Piel) to strike
d) (Pual) to be stricken (by disease)
e) (Hiphil) to cause to touch, reach, approach, arrive
1) to cause to touch, apply
2) to reach, extend, attain, arrive, come
3) to approach (of time)
4) to befall (of fate)
the border: 7097
1) end, extremity
a) end, mouth, extremity
b) border, outskirts
c) the whole (condensed term for what is included within extremities)
d) at the end of (a certain time)
of if, whoever: 3605
1) all, the whole
a) all, the whole of
b) any, each, every, anything
c) totality, everything
shall surely be put to death: 4191
1) to die, kill, have one executed
a) (Qal)
1) to die
2) to die (as penalty), be put to death
3) to die, perish (of a nation)
4) to die prematurely (by neglect of wise moral conduct)
b) (Polel) to kill, put to death, dispatch
c) (Hiphil) to kill, put to death
d) (Hophal)
1) to be killed, be put to death
a) to die prematurely
References:
Blue Letter Bible. "Book of Exodus 19 - (NASB - New American Standard Bible)." Blue Letter Bible. 1996-2010. 28 Jan 2010. http://www.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=Exd&c=19&t=NASB
Higgins, S. (2010). The Purpose of Boundaries. Devotions for Thought. Higgins Publishing. Http://www.devotionsforthought.blogspot.com, Http://www.higginspublishing.com
Wednesday
What Is Your Leadership Style?
Scripture(s): Exodus 18:17-22
Moses' father-in-law said to him, "The thing that you are doing is not good. "You will surely wear out, both yourself and these people who are with you, for the task is too heavy for you; you cannot do it alone. "Now listen to me: I will give you counsel, and God be with you. You be the people's representative before God, and you bring the disputes to God, then teach them the statutes and the laws, and make known to them the way in which they are to walk and the work they are to do.
"Furthermore, you shall select out of all the people able men who fear God, men of truth, those who hate dishonest gain; and you shall place {these} over them {as} leaders of thousands, of hundreds, of fifties and of tens. "Let them judge the people at all times; and let it be that every major dispute they will bring to you, but every minor dispute they themselves will judge. So it will be easier for you, and they will bear {the burden} with you. "If you do this thing and God {so} commands you, then you will be able to endure, and all these people also will go to their place in peace."
Commentary:
Moses father-in-law counseled him about his leadership style. Moses was stretching himself way beyond what anyone could humanly handle on a day-to-day basis. He would work from sunset to sundown; fulfilling the needs of the people, that came to him with things that they could not resolve. Some of the matters were large, some of the matters were small. It didn't matter to Moses if he had to do this all day and all night. However, over time, Moses would wear himself out, and that's what his father-in-law told him. Obviously, Moses was tired from his leadership style, and he decided to listen to wise counsel.
Reflection:
Taking on too much in leadership is an unnecessary burden upon oneself. God created us to need one another, and by acknowledging that we cannot do everything by ourselves; we acknowledge our need for each other. The gifts that God has given to us, can be used for the building up of the kingdom of God more effectively; when we understand our leadership style, as well as the leadership style of others.
When God puts us into positions of leadership,it is very important for us not to wear ourselves out. We must take into consideration what needs to be done, and pray that God gives us wisdom in delegating responsiblity to those that are capable, and God-fearing people.
Some of the tasks that God gives us are extremely large, and we will need help in implementing the plan that He has given to us. Let us always seek the council of God when we lead, so that the people that He has given us to lead, will receive what they need. Let us not be tricked by the enemy, into thinking that we're not doing enough, just because we're not exhausted.
Strong's Concordance Definitions:
Exodus 18:18
You will surely wear out, both yourself and these people who are with you, for the task is too heavy for you; you cannot do it alone.
you will surely wear: 5034
1) to be senseless, be foolish
a) (Qal) to be foolish
b) (Piel)
1) to regard or treat as foolish
2) to treat with contempt
2) to sink or drop down, languish, wither and fall, fade
a) (Qal)
1) to sink or drop down
2) to fall, wither and fall, fade
3) to droop
out both: 1571
1) also, even, indeed, moreover, yea
a) also, moreover (giving emphasis)
b) neither, neither...nor (with negative)
c) even (for stress)
d) indeed, yea (introducing climax)
e) also (of correspondence or retribution)
f) but, yet, though (adversative)
g) even, yea, yea though (with 'when' in hypothetical case)
2) (TWOT) again, alike
are with you, for the task: 1697
1 speech, word, speaking, thing
a) speech
b) saying, utterance
c) word, words
d) business, occupation, acts, matter, case, something, manner (by extension)
heavy:3515
1) heavy, great
a) heavy
b) massive, abundant, numerous
c) heavy, dull
d) hard, difficult, burdensome
e) very oppressive, numerous, rich
for you, you cannot do: 3201
1) to prevail, overcome, endure, have power, be able
a) (Qal)
1) to be able, be able to gain or accomplish, be able to endure, be able to reach
2) to prevail, prevail over or against, overcome, be victor
3) to have ability, have strength
it alone: 905
1) alone, by itself, besides, a part, separation, being alone
a) separation, alone, by itself
1) only (adv)
2) apart from, besides (prep)
b) part
c) parts (eg limbs, shoots), bars
References:
Blue Letter Bible. "Book of Exodus 18 - (NASB - New American Standard Bible)." Blue Letter Bible. 1996-2010. 27 Jan 2010. http://www.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=Exd&c=18&t=NASB
Higgins, S. (2010). What Is Your Leadership Style? Devotions For Thought. Http://www.devotionsforthought.blogspot.com, Http://www.higginspublishing.com
Moses' father-in-law said to him, "The thing that you are doing is not good. "You will surely wear out, both yourself and these people who are with you, for the task is too heavy for you; you cannot do it alone. "Now listen to me: I will give you counsel, and God be with you. You be the people's representative before God, and you bring the disputes to God, then teach them the statutes and the laws, and make known to them the way in which they are to walk and the work they are to do.
"Furthermore, you shall select out of all the people able men who fear God, men of truth, those who hate dishonest gain; and you shall place {these} over them {as} leaders of thousands, of hundreds, of fifties and of tens. "Let them judge the people at all times; and let it be that every major dispute they will bring to you, but every minor dispute they themselves will judge. So it will be easier for you, and they will bear {the burden} with you. "If you do this thing and God {so} commands you, then you will be able to endure, and all these people also will go to their place in peace."
Commentary:
Moses father-in-law counseled him about his leadership style. Moses was stretching himself way beyond what anyone could humanly handle on a day-to-day basis. He would work from sunset to sundown; fulfilling the needs of the people, that came to him with things that they could not resolve. Some of the matters were large, some of the matters were small. It didn't matter to Moses if he had to do this all day and all night. However, over time, Moses would wear himself out, and that's what his father-in-law told him. Obviously, Moses was tired from his leadership style, and he decided to listen to wise counsel.
Reflection:
Taking on too much in leadership is an unnecessary burden upon oneself. God created us to need one another, and by acknowledging that we cannot do everything by ourselves; we acknowledge our need for each other. The gifts that God has given to us, can be used for the building up of the kingdom of God more effectively; when we understand our leadership style, as well as the leadership style of others.
When God puts us into positions of leadership,it is very important for us not to wear ourselves out. We must take into consideration what needs to be done, and pray that God gives us wisdom in delegating responsiblity to those that are capable, and God-fearing people.
Some of the tasks that God gives us are extremely large, and we will need help in implementing the plan that He has given to us. Let us always seek the council of God when we lead, so that the people that He has given us to lead, will receive what they need. Let us not be tricked by the enemy, into thinking that we're not doing enough, just because we're not exhausted.
Strong's Concordance Definitions:
Exodus 18:18
You will surely wear out, both yourself and these people who are with you, for the task is too heavy for you; you cannot do it alone.
you will surely wear: 5034
1) to be senseless, be foolish
a) (Qal) to be foolish
b) (Piel)
1) to regard or treat as foolish
2) to treat with contempt
2) to sink or drop down, languish, wither and fall, fade
a) (Qal)
1) to sink or drop down
2) to fall, wither and fall, fade
3) to droop
out both: 1571
1) also, even, indeed, moreover, yea
a) also, moreover (giving emphasis)
b) neither, neither...nor (with negative)
c) even (for stress)
d) indeed, yea (introducing climax)
e) also (of correspondence or retribution)
f) but, yet, though (adversative)
g) even, yea, yea though (with 'when' in hypothetical case)
2) (TWOT) again, alike
are with you, for the task: 1697
1 speech, word, speaking, thing
a) speech
b) saying, utterance
c) word, words
d) business, occupation, acts, matter, case, something, manner (by extension)
heavy:3515
1) heavy, great
a) heavy
b) massive, abundant, numerous
c) heavy, dull
d) hard, difficult, burdensome
e) very oppressive, numerous, rich
for you, you cannot do: 3201
1) to prevail, overcome, endure, have power, be able
a) (Qal)
1) to be able, be able to gain or accomplish, be able to endure, be able to reach
2) to prevail, prevail over or against, overcome, be victor
3) to have ability, have strength
it alone: 905
1) alone, by itself, besides, a part, separation, being alone
a) separation, alone, by itself
1) only (adv)
2) apart from, besides (prep)
b) part
c) parts (eg limbs, shoots), bars
References:
Blue Letter Bible. "Book of Exodus 18 - (NASB - New American Standard Bible)." Blue Letter Bible. 1996-2010. 27 Jan 2010. http://www.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=Exd&c=18&t=NASB
Higgins, S. (2010). What Is Your Leadership Style? Devotions For Thought. Http://www.devotionsforthought.blogspot.com, Http://www.higginspublishing.com
Tuesday
The Outcry of Our Hearts
Scripture: Exodus 14:14
"The LORD will fight for you while you keep silent."
Commentary:
God uses Moses to bring His people out of bondage and oppression from under the hand of Pharaoh. He delivers His people from their enemy, right in front of their very eyes. The miracle that God performed right in the midst of the people, showed them how powerful God truly was; and that they did not need to be afraid of the enemy any longer. God brought the people of Israel out with a strong hand, and destroyed the power of the enemy at the same time.
When God makes a promise to us that He is going to do something; we do not have to fight the enemy for our promise. God has already fought the enemy and won. We can stand on our belief, and trust in God to bring the promise right in front of our very eyes, so that we will believe what He has spoken, and glorify Him for who He is; and What He has done.
Reflection:
God is so merciful, that when we cannot see our way out of a situation, He will make a way for us; even if we are unable to speak a word. Some situations are so devastating that we cannot come up with the words to even pray to God. Some circumstances are so crippling to our emotions that only God can deliver us. When our hearts are so overloaded that we cannot even speak; God himself will fight for us! He will hear the outcry of our hearts, and deliver us to our destiny; inspite of the bondage that tries to hold us in captivity, and despite the oppression of the enemy.
When we feel that we are being treated unfairly by someone that we are working for, or with; God will see both sides of the story, and will take care of the situation fairly. If we indeed are being treated unfairly, God himself will change the situation around in our favor. God will often bless us through the hands of another person, so that we do not lack anything. We should always keep on our minds the fairness of God, so that we do not react to something the wrong way.
Prayer:
Abba Father, I thank you for fighting for me. I thank you for protecting me from the plan of the enemy to take my life. I thank you for your grace and mercy upon me to fulfill your purpose for my life. I thank you for keeping me in remembrance, that you are my defense; and that nothing will ever be able to pluck me out of your hand. I give you glory, and praise, and honor, for who you are, and what you have already done.
Strong's Concordance Definitions:
LORD:3068
Jehovah = "the existing One"
1) the proper name of the one true God
a) unpronounced except with the vowel pointings of 0136
Will Fight: 3898
1) to fight, do battle, make war
a) (Qal) to fight, do battle
b) (Niphal) to engage in battle, wage war
2) (Qal) to eat, use as food
While you keep silent: 2790
1) to cut in, plough, engrave, devise
a) (Qal)
1) to cut in, engrave
2) to plough
3) to devise
b) (Niphal) to be ploughed
c) (Hiphil) to plot evil
2) to be silent, be dumb, be speechless, be deaf
a) (Qal)
1) to be silent
2) to be deaf
b) (Hiphil)
1) to be silent, keep quiet
2) to make silent
3) to be deaf, show deafness
c) (Hithpael) to remain silent
References:
Blue Letter Bible. "Book of Exodus 14 - (NASB - New American Standard Bible)." Blue Letter Bible. 1996-2010. 26 Jan 2010. http://www.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=Exd&c=14&t=NASB
Higgins, S. (2010). The Outcry of Our Hearts. Devotions for Thought. Higgins Publishing. Http://www.devotionsforthought.blogspot.com, Http://www.higginspublishing.com
"The LORD will fight for you while you keep silent."
Commentary:
God uses Moses to bring His people out of bondage and oppression from under the hand of Pharaoh. He delivers His people from their enemy, right in front of their very eyes. The miracle that God performed right in the midst of the people, showed them how powerful God truly was; and that they did not need to be afraid of the enemy any longer. God brought the people of Israel out with a strong hand, and destroyed the power of the enemy at the same time.
When God makes a promise to us that He is going to do something; we do not have to fight the enemy for our promise. God has already fought the enemy and won. We can stand on our belief, and trust in God to bring the promise right in front of our very eyes, so that we will believe what He has spoken, and glorify Him for who He is; and What He has done.
Reflection:
God is so merciful, that when we cannot see our way out of a situation, He will make a way for us; even if we are unable to speak a word. Some situations are so devastating that we cannot come up with the words to even pray to God. Some circumstances are so crippling to our emotions that only God can deliver us. When our hearts are so overloaded that we cannot even speak; God himself will fight for us! He will hear the outcry of our hearts, and deliver us to our destiny; inspite of the bondage that tries to hold us in captivity, and despite the oppression of the enemy.
When we feel that we are being treated unfairly by someone that we are working for, or with; God will see both sides of the story, and will take care of the situation fairly. If we indeed are being treated unfairly, God himself will change the situation around in our favor. God will often bless us through the hands of another person, so that we do not lack anything. We should always keep on our minds the fairness of God, so that we do not react to something the wrong way.
Prayer:
Abba Father, I thank you for fighting for me. I thank you for protecting me from the plan of the enemy to take my life. I thank you for your grace and mercy upon me to fulfill your purpose for my life. I thank you for keeping me in remembrance, that you are my defense; and that nothing will ever be able to pluck me out of your hand. I give you glory, and praise, and honor, for who you are, and what you have already done.
Strong's Concordance Definitions:
LORD:3068
Jehovah = "the existing One"
1) the proper name of the one true God
a) unpronounced except with the vowel pointings of 0136
Will Fight: 3898
1) to fight, do battle, make war
a) (Qal) to fight, do battle
b) (Niphal) to engage in battle, wage war
2) (Qal) to eat, use as food
While you keep silent: 2790
1) to cut in, plough, engrave, devise
a) (Qal)
1) to cut in, engrave
2) to plough
3) to devise
b) (Niphal) to be ploughed
c) (Hiphil) to plot evil
2) to be silent, be dumb, be speechless, be deaf
a) (Qal)
1) to be silent
2) to be deaf
b) (Hiphil)
1) to be silent, keep quiet
2) to make silent
3) to be deaf, show deafness
c) (Hithpael) to remain silent
References:
Blue Letter Bible. "Book of Exodus 14 - (NASB - New American Standard Bible)." Blue Letter Bible. 1996-2010. 26 Jan 2010. http://www.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=Exd&c=14&t=NASB
Higgins, S. (2010). The Outcry of Our Hearts. Devotions for Thought. Higgins Publishing. Http://www.devotionsforthought.blogspot.com, Http://www.higginspublishing.com
Monday
Intimate Secrets Revealed
Scripture: Matthew 16:18
"I also say to you that you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build My church; and the gates of Hades will not overpower it.
Commentary:
Jesus was speaking with his disciples about their understanding about who He was. He asked them who they thought and/or said that He was. Peter answered and said that He was the Christ, the Son of the Living God. Peter could not have understood who Christ was without it being revealed to him by God, However, Peter could not have known who he was personally, without an intimate relationship with Christ.
Through the relationship that Peter had with Jesus, the essence of Peter was revealed through the name, and the purpose assigned to his name. The name Peter means, rock or stone. Jesus reminded Peter who he was in Him. He let Peter know that Peter's dependence would be upon Him to fulfill his purpose in the kingdom of God. Peter was given the keys to the kingdom of heaven, and he received authority from the Lord Jesus Christ to do what he was called to do.
Reflection:
When we have a personal relationship with Christ, He reveals intimate secrets to us, that will give us understanding into who He is; and why we are. Spending time with Him daily in His word, and in prayer, will bring us closer and closer to the essence of Him; which in turn, will reveal the true essence of who we are created to be in Him. Through an intimate relationship with Christ, we will understand the authority that He has given us, to be colaborers together with Christ in building the Kingdom of God.
Strong's Concordance Definitions:
To you, that you are Peter: 4074
Peter = "a rock or a stone"
1) one of the twelve disciples of Jesus
Rock: 4073
1) a rock, cliff or ledge
a) a projecting rock, crag, rocky ground
b) a rock, a large stone
c) metaph. a man like a rock, by reason of his firmness and strength of soul
I will build: 3618
1) to build a house, erect a building
a) to build (up from the foundation)
b) to restore by building, to rebuild, repair
2) metaph.
a) to found, establish
b) to promote growth in Christian wisdom, affection, grace, virtue, holiness, blessedness
c) to grow in wisdom and piety
My church: 1577
1) a gathering of citizens called out from their homes into some public place, an assembly
a) an assembly of the people convened at the public place of the council for the purpose of deliberating
b) the assembly of the Israelites
c) any gathering or throng of men assembled by chance, tumultuously
d) in a Christian sense
1) an assembly of Christians gathered for worship in a religious meeting
2) a company of Christian, or of those who, hoping for eternal salvation through Jesus Christ, observe their own religious rites, hold their own religious meetings, and manage their own affairs, according to regulations prescribed for the body for order's sake
3) those who anywhere, in a city, village, constitute such a company and are united into one body
4) the whole body of Christians scattered throughout the earth
5) the assembly of faithful Christians already dead and received into heaven
and the gates: 4439
1) a gate
a) of the larger sort
1) in the wall of either a city
2) a palace
3) a town
4) the temple
5) a prison
2) the gates of hell (likened to a vast prison)
3) metaph. the access or entrance into any state
of Hades: 86
1) name Hades or Pluto, the god of the lower regions
2) Orcus, the nether world, the realm of the dead
3) later use of this word: the grave, death, hell
In Biblical Greek it is associated with Orcus, the infernal regions, a dark and dismal place in the very depths of the earth, the common receptacle of disembodied spirits. Usually Hades is just the abode of the wicked, Luk 16:23, Rev 20:13, 14; a very uncomfortable place. (TDNT)
Will not overpower it: 2729
1) to be strong to another's detriment, to prevail against
2) to be superior in strength
3) to overcome
4) to prevail
References:
Blue Letter Bible. "Gospel of Matthew 16 - (NASB - New American Standard Bible)." Blue Letter Bible. 1996-2010. 25 Jan 2010. http://www.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=Mat&c=16&t=NASB
Higgins, S. (2010). Intimate Secrets Revealed. Devotions for Thought. Http://www.devotionsforthought.blogspot.com, http://www.higginspublishing.com
"I also say to you that you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build My church; and the gates of Hades will not overpower it.
Commentary:
Jesus was speaking with his disciples about their understanding about who He was. He asked them who they thought and/or said that He was. Peter answered and said that He was the Christ, the Son of the Living God. Peter could not have understood who Christ was without it being revealed to him by God, However, Peter could not have known who he was personally, without an intimate relationship with Christ.
Through the relationship that Peter had with Jesus, the essence of Peter was revealed through the name, and the purpose assigned to his name. The name Peter means, rock or stone. Jesus reminded Peter who he was in Him. He let Peter know that Peter's dependence would be upon Him to fulfill his purpose in the kingdom of God. Peter was given the keys to the kingdom of heaven, and he received authority from the Lord Jesus Christ to do what he was called to do.
Reflection:
When we have a personal relationship with Christ, He reveals intimate secrets to us, that will give us understanding into who He is; and why we are. Spending time with Him daily in His word, and in prayer, will bring us closer and closer to the essence of Him; which in turn, will reveal the true essence of who we are created to be in Him. Through an intimate relationship with Christ, we will understand the authority that He has given us, to be colaborers together with Christ in building the Kingdom of God.
Strong's Concordance Definitions:
To you, that you are Peter: 4074
Peter = "a rock or a stone"
1) one of the twelve disciples of Jesus
Rock: 4073
1) a rock, cliff or ledge
a) a projecting rock, crag, rocky ground
b) a rock, a large stone
c) metaph. a man like a rock, by reason of his firmness and strength of soul
I will build: 3618
1) to build a house, erect a building
a) to build (up from the foundation)
b) to restore by building, to rebuild, repair
2) metaph.
a) to found, establish
b) to promote growth in Christian wisdom, affection, grace, virtue, holiness, blessedness
c) to grow in wisdom and piety
My church: 1577
1) a gathering of citizens called out from their homes into some public place, an assembly
a) an assembly of the people convened at the public place of the council for the purpose of deliberating
b) the assembly of the Israelites
c) any gathering or throng of men assembled by chance, tumultuously
d) in a Christian sense
1) an assembly of Christians gathered for worship in a religious meeting
2) a company of Christian, or of those who, hoping for eternal salvation through Jesus Christ, observe their own religious rites, hold their own religious meetings, and manage their own affairs, according to regulations prescribed for the body for order's sake
3) those who anywhere, in a city, village, constitute such a company and are united into one body
4) the whole body of Christians scattered throughout the earth
5) the assembly of faithful Christians already dead and received into heaven
and the gates: 4439
1) a gate
a) of the larger sort
1) in the wall of either a city
2) a palace
3) a town
4) the temple
5) a prison
2) the gates of hell (likened to a vast prison)
3) metaph. the access or entrance into any state
of Hades: 86
1) name Hades or Pluto, the god of the lower regions
2) Orcus, the nether world, the realm of the dead
3) later use of this word: the grave, death, hell
In Biblical Greek it is associated with Orcus, the infernal regions, a dark and dismal place in the very depths of the earth, the common receptacle of disembodied spirits. Usually Hades is just the abode of the wicked, Luk 16:23, Rev 20:13, 14; a very uncomfortable place. (TDNT)
Will not overpower it: 2729
1) to be strong to another's detriment, to prevail against
2) to be superior in strength
3) to overcome
4) to prevail
References:
Blue Letter Bible. "Gospel of Matthew 16 - (NASB - New American Standard Bible)." Blue Letter Bible. 1996-2010. 25 Jan 2010. http://www.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=Mat&c=16&t=NASB
Higgins, S. (2010). Intimate Secrets Revealed. Devotions for Thought. Http://www.devotionsforthought.blogspot.com, http://www.higginspublishing.com
Sunday
The Persistent Tenancity of Our Father
Scripture: Exodus 11:1
Now the LORD said to Moses, "One more plague I will bring on Pharaoh and on Egypt; after that he will let you go from here. When he lets you go, he will surely drive you out from here completely.
God instructed Moses on what he should say to Pharaoh. However, God hardened the heart of Pharaoh so that he would refuse to let the children of Israel "God's People," go. During the course of the plagues that God brought on the land of Egypt, Pharaoh stated various times that he would let God's people Go.
But everytime, Moses would pray on behalf of a so called repentive Pharaoh; Pharaoh would change his mind about releasing God's people. Time after time Pharaoh would lie, and delay the release of God's people. Until one day, God forced the hand of the oppressor to release his people; by sending the death angel into the land of Egypt.
Any house that did not have the sacrificial blood of a lamb on the door post at the time the death angel passed over; the firstborn son in the house would die. Therefore, all of the Egyptians first born sons died, because they were not God's chosen people, and they were not protected as the children of Israel were.
This last plague was the plague that forced the hand of the enemy to release God's chosen people into their promise land. They did not go out empty, they went out with wealth into a land that would be flowing with milk and honey.
Reflection:
No matter how hard the enemy tries to fight against the promises of God manifesting in our Lives, God himself has already defeated the enemy. The promises of God, and the promise land, are already prepared for us to claim and to possess! When the enemy tries to wear us out, God will wear him out even more! Our enemy will be forced to loose his grip from what God has already ordained for us to WALK into. We can WALK into what God says is ours because the enemy in whom we have seen, we shall see no longer.
Prayer:
Thank you Father God for defeating the enemy, and giving me the power to walk into the promise that you have prepared for me. I thank and praise you for it in advance. I give you the glory, and I give you the praise. There is no one like you. I thank you for blowing my mind with what you have already given me, and I praise you for your goodness, your mercy, and your grace. You alone are worthy of all of the praise. I thank you because you are the keeper of my soul, and the beat of my heart. I love you so much, and I will keep a praise on my lips for all the things that you have done. In Jesus name, I pray. Amen.
Strong's Concordance Definitions:
Now the LORD: 3068
Jehovah = "the existing One"
1) the proper name of the one true God
a) unpronounced except with the vowel pointings of 0136
Said: 559
1) to say, speak, utter
a) (Qal) to say, to answer, to say in one's heart, to think, to command, to promise, to intend
b) (Niphal) to be told, to be said, to be called
c) (Hithpael) to boast, to act proudly
d) (Hiphil) to avow, to avouch
Moses: 4872
Moses = "drawn"
1) the prophet and lawgiver, leader of the exodus
One: 259
1) one (number)
a) one (number)
b) each, every
c) a certain
d) an (indefinite article)
e) only, once, once for all
f) one...another, the one...the other, one after another, one by one
g) first
h) eleven (in combination), eleventh (ordinal)
More: 5750
subst
1) a going round, continuance
adv
2) still, yet, again, besides
a) still, yet (of continuance or persistence)
b) still, yet, more (of addition or repetition)
c) again
d) still, moreover, besides
Plague: 5061
1) stroke, plague, disease, mark, plague spot
a) stroke, wound
b) stroke (metaphorical of disease)
c) mark (of leprosy)
I will bring: 935
1) to go in, enter, come, go, come in
a) (Qal)
1) to enter, come in
2) to come
a) to come with
b) to come upon, fall or light upon, attack (enemy)
c) to come to pass
3) to attain to
4) to be enumerated
5) to go
b) (Hiphil)
1) to lead in
2) to carry in
3) to bring in, cause to come in, gather, cause to come, bring near, bring against, bring upon
4) to bring to pass
c) (Hophal)
1) to be brought, brought in
2) to be introduced, be put
on Pharaoh: 6547
Pharaoh = "great house"
1) the common title of the king of Egypt
and on Egypt: 4714
Egypt = "land of the Copts"
1) a country at the northeastern section of Africa, adjacent to Palestine, and through which the Nile flows
Egyptians = "double straits"
2) the inhabitants or natives of Egypt
He will let: 7971
1) to send, send away, let go, stretch out
a) (Qal)
1) to send
2) to stretch out, extend, direct
3) to send away
4) to let loose
b) (Niphal) to be sent
c) (Piel)
1) to send off or away or out or forth, dismiss, give over, cast out
2) to let go, set free
3) to shoot forth (of branches)
4) to let down
5) to shoot
d) (Pual) to be sent off, be put away, be divorced, be impelled
e) (Hiphil) to send
He will surely drive: 1644
1) to drive out, expel, cast out, drive away, divorce, put away, thrust away, trouble, cast up
a) (Qal) to thrust out, cast out
b) (Niphal) to be driven away, be tossed
c) (Piel) to drive out, drive away
d) (Pual) to be thrust out
completely: 3617
1) completion, termination, full end, complete destruction, consumption, annihilation
a) completion
1) completely, altogether (adv)
b) complete destruction, consumption, annihilation
References:
Blue Letter Bible. "Dictionary and Word Search for kalah (Strong's 3617)". Blue Letter Bible. 1996-2010. 25 Jan 2010. http://www.blueletterbible.org/lang/lexicon/lexicon.cfm?Strongs=H3617&t=NASB
Higgins,S. (2010). The Persistent Tenancity of Our Father. Devotions for Thought. Higgins Publishing. Http://www.devotionsforthought.blogspot.com, Http:www.higginspublishing.com
Now the LORD said to Moses, "One more plague I will bring on Pharaoh and on Egypt; after that he will let you go from here. When he lets you go, he will surely drive you out from here completely.
God instructed Moses on what he should say to Pharaoh. However, God hardened the heart of Pharaoh so that he would refuse to let the children of Israel "God's People," go. During the course of the plagues that God brought on the land of Egypt, Pharaoh stated various times that he would let God's people Go.
But everytime, Moses would pray on behalf of a so called repentive Pharaoh; Pharaoh would change his mind about releasing God's people. Time after time Pharaoh would lie, and delay the release of God's people. Until one day, God forced the hand of the oppressor to release his people; by sending the death angel into the land of Egypt.
Any house that did not have the sacrificial blood of a lamb on the door post at the time the death angel passed over; the firstborn son in the house would die. Therefore, all of the Egyptians first born sons died, because they were not God's chosen people, and they were not protected as the children of Israel were.
This last plague was the plague that forced the hand of the enemy to release God's chosen people into their promise land. They did not go out empty, they went out with wealth into a land that would be flowing with milk and honey.
Reflection:
No matter how hard the enemy tries to fight against the promises of God manifesting in our Lives, God himself has already defeated the enemy. The promises of God, and the promise land, are already prepared for us to claim and to possess! When the enemy tries to wear us out, God will wear him out even more! Our enemy will be forced to loose his grip from what God has already ordained for us to WALK into. We can WALK into what God says is ours because the enemy in whom we have seen, we shall see no longer.
Prayer:
Thank you Father God for defeating the enemy, and giving me the power to walk into the promise that you have prepared for me. I thank and praise you for it in advance. I give you the glory, and I give you the praise. There is no one like you. I thank you for blowing my mind with what you have already given me, and I praise you for your goodness, your mercy, and your grace. You alone are worthy of all of the praise. I thank you because you are the keeper of my soul, and the beat of my heart. I love you so much, and I will keep a praise on my lips for all the things that you have done. In Jesus name, I pray. Amen.
Strong's Concordance Definitions:
Now the LORD: 3068
Jehovah = "the existing One"
1) the proper name of the one true God
a) unpronounced except with the vowel pointings of 0136
Said: 559
1) to say, speak, utter
a) (Qal) to say, to answer, to say in one's heart, to think, to command, to promise, to intend
b) (Niphal) to be told, to be said, to be called
c) (Hithpael) to boast, to act proudly
d) (Hiphil) to avow, to avouch
Moses: 4872
Moses = "drawn"
1) the prophet and lawgiver, leader of the exodus
One: 259
1) one (number)
a) one (number)
b) each, every
c) a certain
d) an (indefinite article)
e) only, once, once for all
f) one...another, the one...the other, one after another, one by one
g) first
h) eleven (in combination), eleventh (ordinal)
More: 5750
subst
1) a going round, continuance
adv
2) still, yet, again, besides
a) still, yet (of continuance or persistence)
b) still, yet, more (of addition or repetition)
c) again
d) still, moreover, besides
Plague: 5061
1) stroke, plague, disease, mark, plague spot
a) stroke, wound
b) stroke (metaphorical of disease)
c) mark (of leprosy)
I will bring: 935
1) to go in, enter, come, go, come in
a) (Qal)
1) to enter, come in
2) to come
a) to come with
b) to come upon, fall or light upon, attack (enemy)
c) to come to pass
3) to attain to
4) to be enumerated
5) to go
b) (Hiphil)
1) to lead in
2) to carry in
3) to bring in, cause to come in, gather, cause to come, bring near, bring against, bring upon
4) to bring to pass
c) (Hophal)
1) to be brought, brought in
2) to be introduced, be put
on Pharaoh: 6547
Pharaoh = "great house"
1) the common title of the king of Egypt
and on Egypt: 4714
Egypt = "land of the Copts"
1) a country at the northeastern section of Africa, adjacent to Palestine, and through which the Nile flows
Egyptians = "double straits"
2) the inhabitants or natives of Egypt
He will let: 7971
1) to send, send away, let go, stretch out
a) (Qal)
1) to send
2) to stretch out, extend, direct
3) to send away
4) to let loose
b) (Niphal) to be sent
c) (Piel)
1) to send off or away or out or forth, dismiss, give over, cast out
2) to let go, set free
3) to shoot forth (of branches)
4) to let down
5) to shoot
d) (Pual) to be sent off, be put away, be divorced, be impelled
e) (Hiphil) to send
He will surely drive: 1644
1) to drive out, expel, cast out, drive away, divorce, put away, thrust away, trouble, cast up
a) (Qal) to thrust out, cast out
b) (Niphal) to be driven away, be tossed
c) (Piel) to drive out, drive away
d) (Pual) to be thrust out
completely: 3617
1) completion, termination, full end, complete destruction, consumption, annihilation
a) completion
1) completely, altogether (adv)
b) complete destruction, consumption, annihilation
References:
Blue Letter Bible. "Dictionary and Word Search for kalah (Strong's 3617)". Blue Letter Bible. 1996-2010. 25 Jan 2010. http://www.blueletterbible.org/lang/lexicon/lexicon.cfm?Strongs=H3617&t=NASB
Higgins,S. (2010). The Persistent Tenancity of Our Father. Devotions for Thought. Higgins Publishing. Http://www.devotionsforthought.blogspot.com, Http:www.higginspublishing.com
Saturday
The Balance of Giving
Scriptures: Matthew 15:3-6
And He answered and said to them, "Why do you yourselves transgress the commandment of God for the sake of your tradition? "For God said, 'HONOR YOUR FATHER AND MOTHER,' and, 'HE WHO SPEAKS EVIL OF FATHER OR MOTHER IS TO BE PUT TO DEATH. "But you say, 'Whoever says to {his} father or mother, "Whatever I have that would help you has been given {to God,}" he is not to honor his father or his mother.' And {by this} you invalidated the word of God for the sake of your tradition.
Jesus is speaking to the Pharisee and scribes about how they twist the Word of God to fit into what they want. He calls them hypocrites because they set aside the Word of God for the sake of their tradition. The Word of God says for us to Honor our father and mother, but the Pharisee and Scribes readjusted the Word of God, in saying that, whatever money that they had, was designated as a gift to God; therefore, they could not, and/or would not use it to help their parents.
Reflection:
It is important for us to balance what God gives us, and not to justify our lack of support and assistance to our parents, or to others in need. If we see that our parents are in need financially, or otherwise; or that someone that we know, or don't know, is in need; and it is within our power to help them; we should not say within ourselves, the money is designated for the Lord. Because in our giving to those in need, God is honored and blessed. When we withhold our hands from blessing others because of tradition, we inturn become like the Pharisee and the scribes.
Prayer:
Father God, thank you for giving me a giving and generous heart, so that I can bless those that you have given me to bless. Regardless of the traditions of man, your Word makes it clear; not to be guided by the traditions of man, but by your grace and mercy. In Jesus name, I pray. Amen.
Strong's Concordance Definitions: Matthew 15:4
For God: 2316
1) a god or goddess, a general name of deities or divinities
2) the Godhead, trinity
a) God the Father, the first person in the trinity
b) Christ, the second person of the trinity
c) Holy Spirit, the third person in the trinity
3) spoken of the only and true God
a) refers to the things of God
b) his counsels, interests, things due to him
4) whatever can in any respect be likened unto God, or resemble him in any way
a) God's representative or viceregent
1) of magistrates and judges
said: 3004
1) to say, to speak
a) affirm over, maintain
b) to teach
c) to exhort, advise, to command, direct
d) to point out with words, intend, mean, mean to say
e) to call by name, to call, name
f) to speak out, speak of, mention
honor: 5091
1) to estimate, fix the value
a) for the value of something belonging to one's self
2) to honour, to have in honour, to revere, venerate
your father: 3962
1) generator or male ancestor
a) either the nearest ancestor: father of the corporeal nature, natural fathers, both parents
b) a more remote ancestor, the founder of a family or tribe, progenitor of a people, forefather: so Abraham is called, Jacob and David
1) fathers i.e. ancestors, forefathers, founders of a nation
c) one advanced in years, a senior
2) metaph.
a) the originator and transmitter of anything
1) the authors of a family or society of persons animated by the same spirit as himself
2) one who has infused his own spirit into others, who actuates and governs their minds
b) one who stands in a father's place and looks after another in a paternal way
c) a title of honour
1) teachers, as those to whom pupils trace back the knowledge and training they have received
2) the members of the Sanhedrin, whose prerogative it was by virtue of the wisdom and experience in which they excelled, to take charge of the interests of others
3) God is called the Father
a) of the stars, the heavenly luminaries, because he is their creator, upholder, ruler
b) of all rational and intelligent beings, whether angels or men, because he is their creator, preserver, guardian and protector
1) of spiritual beings and of all men
c) of Christians, as those who through Christ have been exalted to a specially close and intimate relationship with God, and who no longer dread him as a stern judge of sinners, but revere him as their reconciled and loving Father
d) the Father of Jesus Christ, as one whom God has united to himself in the closest bond of love and intimacy, made acquainted with his purposes, appointed to explain and carry out among men the plan of salvation, and made to share also in his own divine nature
1) by Jesus Christ himself
2) by the apostles
and mother: 3384
1) a mother
2) metaph. the source of something, the motherland
he who speaks evil: 2551
1) to speak evil of, revile, abuse, one
2) to curse
is to be put: 5053
1) to finish, bring to and end, close
2) to have an end or close, come to an end
to death: 2288
1) the death of the body
a) that separation (whether natural or violent) of the soul and the body by which the life on earth is ended
b) with the implied idea of future misery in hell
1) the power of death
c) since the nether world, the abode of the dead, was conceived as being very dark, it is equivalent to the region of thickest darkness i.e. figuratively, a region enveloped in the darkness of ignorance and sin
2) metaph., the loss of that life which alone is worthy of the name,
a) the misery of the soul arising from sin, which begins on earth but lasts and increases after the death of the body in hell
3) the miserable state of the wicked dead in hell
4) in the widest sense, death comprising all the miseries arising from sin, as well physical death as the loss of a life consecrated to God and blessed in him on earth, to be followed by wretchedness in hell
References:
Blue Letter Bible. "Dictionary and Word Search for thanatos (Strong's 2288)". Blue Letter Bible. 1996-2010. 23 Jan 2010. http://www.blueletterbible.org/lang/lexicon/lexicon.cfm?Strongs=G2288&t=NASB
Higgins, S. (2010). The Balance of Giving. Devotions for Thought. Higgins Publishing. Http://www.devotionsforthought.blogspot.com, http://www.higginspublishing.com
And He answered and said to them, "Why do you yourselves transgress the commandment of God for the sake of your tradition? "For God said, 'HONOR YOUR FATHER AND MOTHER,' and, 'HE WHO SPEAKS EVIL OF FATHER OR MOTHER IS TO BE PUT TO DEATH. "But you say, 'Whoever says to {his} father or mother, "Whatever I have that would help you has been given {to God,}" he is not to honor his father or his mother.' And {by this} you invalidated the word of God for the sake of your tradition.
Jesus is speaking to the Pharisee and scribes about how they twist the Word of God to fit into what they want. He calls them hypocrites because they set aside the Word of God for the sake of their tradition. The Word of God says for us to Honor our father and mother, but the Pharisee and Scribes readjusted the Word of God, in saying that, whatever money that they had, was designated as a gift to God; therefore, they could not, and/or would not use it to help their parents.
Reflection:
It is important for us to balance what God gives us, and not to justify our lack of support and assistance to our parents, or to others in need. If we see that our parents are in need financially, or otherwise; or that someone that we know, or don't know, is in need; and it is within our power to help them; we should not say within ourselves, the money is designated for the Lord. Because in our giving to those in need, God is honored and blessed. When we withhold our hands from blessing others because of tradition, we inturn become like the Pharisee and the scribes.
Prayer:
Father God, thank you for giving me a giving and generous heart, so that I can bless those that you have given me to bless. Regardless of the traditions of man, your Word makes it clear; not to be guided by the traditions of man, but by your grace and mercy. In Jesus name, I pray. Amen.
Strong's Concordance Definitions: Matthew 15:4
For God: 2316
1) a god or goddess, a general name of deities or divinities
2) the Godhead, trinity
a) God the Father, the first person in the trinity
b) Christ, the second person of the trinity
c) Holy Spirit, the third person in the trinity
3) spoken of the only and true God
a) refers to the things of God
b) his counsels, interests, things due to him
4) whatever can in any respect be likened unto God, or resemble him in any way
a) God's representative or viceregent
1) of magistrates and judges
said: 3004
1) to say, to speak
a) affirm over, maintain
b) to teach
c) to exhort, advise, to command, direct
d) to point out with words, intend, mean, mean to say
e) to call by name, to call, name
f) to speak out, speak of, mention
honor: 5091
1) to estimate, fix the value
a) for the value of something belonging to one's self
2) to honour, to have in honour, to revere, venerate
your father: 3962
1) generator or male ancestor
a) either the nearest ancestor: father of the corporeal nature, natural fathers, both parents
b) a more remote ancestor, the founder of a family or tribe, progenitor of a people, forefather: so Abraham is called, Jacob and David
1) fathers i.e. ancestors, forefathers, founders of a nation
c) one advanced in years, a senior
2) metaph.
a) the originator and transmitter of anything
1) the authors of a family or society of persons animated by the same spirit as himself
2) one who has infused his own spirit into others, who actuates and governs their minds
b) one who stands in a father's place and looks after another in a paternal way
c) a title of honour
1) teachers, as those to whom pupils trace back the knowledge and training they have received
2) the members of the Sanhedrin, whose prerogative it was by virtue of the wisdom and experience in which they excelled, to take charge of the interests of others
3) God is called the Father
a) of the stars, the heavenly luminaries, because he is their creator, upholder, ruler
b) of all rational and intelligent beings, whether angels or men, because he is their creator, preserver, guardian and protector
1) of spiritual beings and of all men
c) of Christians, as those who through Christ have been exalted to a specially close and intimate relationship with God, and who no longer dread him as a stern judge of sinners, but revere him as their reconciled and loving Father
d) the Father of Jesus Christ, as one whom God has united to himself in the closest bond of love and intimacy, made acquainted with his purposes, appointed to explain and carry out among men the plan of salvation, and made to share also in his own divine nature
1) by Jesus Christ himself
2) by the apostles
and mother: 3384
1) a mother
2) metaph. the source of something, the motherland
he who speaks evil: 2551
1) to speak evil of, revile, abuse, one
2) to curse
is to be put: 5053
1) to finish, bring to and end, close
2) to have an end or close, come to an end
to death: 2288
1) the death of the body
a) that separation (whether natural or violent) of the soul and the body by which the life on earth is ended
b) with the implied idea of future misery in hell
1) the power of death
c) since the nether world, the abode of the dead, was conceived as being very dark, it is equivalent to the region of thickest darkness i.e. figuratively, a region enveloped in the darkness of ignorance and sin
2) metaph., the loss of that life which alone is worthy of the name,
a) the misery of the soul arising from sin, which begins on earth but lasts and increases after the death of the body in hell
3) the miserable state of the wicked dead in hell
4) in the widest sense, death comprising all the miseries arising from sin, as well physical death as the loss of a life consecrated to God and blessed in him on earth, to be followed by wretchedness in hell
References:
Blue Letter Bible. "Dictionary and Word Search for thanatos (Strong's 2288)". Blue Letter Bible. 1996-2010. 23 Jan 2010. http://www.blueletterbible.org/lang/lexicon/lexicon.cfm?Strongs=G2288&t=NASB
Higgins, S. (2010). The Balance of Giving. Devotions for Thought. Higgins Publishing. Http://www.devotionsforthought.blogspot.com, http://www.higginspublishing.com
Friday
A Glimpse of Things To Come
Scripture: Exodus 4:10
Then Moses said to the LORD, "Please, Lord, I have never been eloquent, neither recently nor in time past, nor since You have spoken to Your servant; for I am slow of speech and slow of tongue."
Moses was chosen by God to be a great deliver, but he could only see his weakness, and not His strength. Moses made an excuse for his lack of faith in God to use him for His glory. The excuse that he made was that he was not eloquent in speech. How could he speak to those in authority over him, when he spoke slowly, and was not confident to speak? What is amazing about his stance, is, he was speaking to God about his inability to do something, that God had told him to do. By speaking to God in such a way, he made God angry; because he could not see past his own inability enough, to trust God with it.
Therefore, God allowed Aaron, the brother of Moses, to speak to Pharaoh in place of Moses. However, Moses was required to still speak the words of God to Aaron. He was not granted permission to abort what God had called him to do. The mouth of Moses would still be used as an instrument of deliverance, through the obedient vessel of his brother.
How amazing is the grace of God! He still used Moses, inspite of his lack of faith and trust in his own ability. Even though Moses did not recognize that the call on his life superseded his weakness; God still used him to bring a nation of people out of bondage. His purpose was destined for greatness, no matter the weakness of his state of mind. His voice had a purpose, and would be used for God's glory.
Reflection:
There are things that God has called us to; that sometimes, even when we cannot see the whole picture; we become nervous - because it is something that we are unfamiliar with. The unfamiliar things that God brings into our presence, can be very exciting; as well as a bit overwhelming. When God shows us a glimpse of what is to come, it gives us time to relax into the thought of what He is about to give us.
Seeing a glimpse of things that are about to unfold, helps us to trust God even the more. As we learn to trust God even more, we learn to totally depend on Him; knowing that He will always be with us in our obedience to Him. When God gives us an assignment; He has already deposited within us, the ability to do what He has called us to do. Let us have faith in the ability that He has put within us; and not try to give our assignment to someone else.
Strong's Concordance Definitions:
Moses: 4872
Moses = "drawn"
1) the prophet and lawgiver, leader of the exodus
to the LORD: 3068
Jehovah = "the existing One"
1) the proper name of the one true God
a) unpronounced except with the vowel pointings of 0136
please: 994
1) if it please, pray excuse me, excuse me please
a) used to introduce an entreaty or request
Lord: 136
1) my lord, lord
a) of men
b) of God
2) Lord - title, spoken in place of Yahweh in Jewish display of reverence
I have never: 3808
1) not, no
a) not (with verb - absolute prohibition)
b) not (with modifier - negation)
c) nothing (subst)
d) without (with particle)
e) before (of time)
been eloquent-376
1) man
a) man, male (in contrast to woman, female)
b) husband
c) human being, person (in contrast to God)
d) servant
e) mankind
f) champion
g) great man
2) whosoever
3) each (adjective)
for I am slow: 3515
1) heavy, great
a) heavy
b) massive, abundant, numerous
c) heavy, dull
d) hard, difficult, burdensome
e) very oppressive, numerous, rich
of speech: 6310
1) (peh) mouth
a) mouth (of man)
b) mouth (as organ of speech)
c) mouth (of animals)
d) mouth, opening, orifice (of a well, river, etc)
e) extremity, end
2) (pim) a weight equal to one third of a shekel, occurs only in 1 Sa. 13:21
of tongue: 3956
1) tongue
a) tongue (of men)
1) tongue (literal)
2) tongue (organ of speech)
b) language
c) tongue (of animals)
d) tongue (of fire)
e) wedge, bay of sea (tongue-shaped)
References:
Blue Letter Bible. "Book of Exodus 4 - (NASB - New American Standard Bible)." Blue Letter Bible. 1996-2010. 22 Jan 2010. http://www.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=Exd&c=4&t=NASB
Higgins, S. (2010). A Glimpse of What Is To Come. Devotions for Thought. Higgins Publishing. Http://www.devotionsforthought.blogspot.com, http://www.higginspublishing.com
Then Moses said to the LORD, "Please, Lord, I have never been eloquent, neither recently nor in time past, nor since You have spoken to Your servant; for I am slow of speech and slow of tongue."
Moses was chosen by God to be a great deliver, but he could only see his weakness, and not His strength. Moses made an excuse for his lack of faith in God to use him for His glory. The excuse that he made was that he was not eloquent in speech. How could he speak to those in authority over him, when he spoke slowly, and was not confident to speak? What is amazing about his stance, is, he was speaking to God about his inability to do something, that God had told him to do. By speaking to God in such a way, he made God angry; because he could not see past his own inability enough, to trust God with it.
Therefore, God allowed Aaron, the brother of Moses, to speak to Pharaoh in place of Moses. However, Moses was required to still speak the words of God to Aaron. He was not granted permission to abort what God had called him to do. The mouth of Moses would still be used as an instrument of deliverance, through the obedient vessel of his brother.
How amazing is the grace of God! He still used Moses, inspite of his lack of faith and trust in his own ability. Even though Moses did not recognize that the call on his life superseded his weakness; God still used him to bring a nation of people out of bondage. His purpose was destined for greatness, no matter the weakness of his state of mind. His voice had a purpose, and would be used for God's glory.
Reflection:
There are things that God has called us to; that sometimes, even when we cannot see the whole picture; we become nervous - because it is something that we are unfamiliar with. The unfamiliar things that God brings into our presence, can be very exciting; as well as a bit overwhelming. When God shows us a glimpse of what is to come, it gives us time to relax into the thought of what He is about to give us.
Seeing a glimpse of things that are about to unfold, helps us to trust God even the more. As we learn to trust God even more, we learn to totally depend on Him; knowing that He will always be with us in our obedience to Him. When God gives us an assignment; He has already deposited within us, the ability to do what He has called us to do. Let us have faith in the ability that He has put within us; and not try to give our assignment to someone else.
Strong's Concordance Definitions:
Moses: 4872
Moses = "drawn"
1) the prophet and lawgiver, leader of the exodus
to the LORD: 3068
Jehovah = "the existing One"
1) the proper name of the one true God
a) unpronounced except with the vowel pointings of 0136
please: 994
1) if it please, pray excuse me, excuse me please
a) used to introduce an entreaty or request
Lord: 136
1) my lord, lord
a) of men
b) of God
2) Lord - title, spoken in place of Yahweh in Jewish display of reverence
I have never: 3808
1) not, no
a) not (with verb - absolute prohibition)
b) not (with modifier - negation)
c) nothing (subst)
d) without (with particle)
e) before (of time)
been eloquent-376
1) man
a) man, male (in contrast to woman, female)
b) husband
c) human being, person (in contrast to God)
d) servant
e) mankind
f) champion
g) great man
2) whosoever
3) each (adjective)
for I am slow: 3515
1) heavy, great
a) heavy
b) massive, abundant, numerous
c) heavy, dull
d) hard, difficult, burdensome
e) very oppressive, numerous, rich
of speech: 6310
1) (peh) mouth
a) mouth (of man)
b) mouth (as organ of speech)
c) mouth (of animals)
d) mouth, opening, orifice (of a well, river, etc)
e) extremity, end
2) (pim) a weight equal to one third of a shekel, occurs only in 1 Sa. 13:21
of tongue: 3956
1) tongue
a) tongue (of men)
1) tongue (literal)
2) tongue (organ of speech)
b) language
c) tongue (of animals)
d) tongue (of fire)
e) wedge, bay of sea (tongue-shaped)
References:
Blue Letter Bible. "Book of Exodus 4 - (NASB - New American Standard Bible)." Blue Letter Bible. 1996-2010. 22 Jan 2010. http://www.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=Exd&c=4&t=NASB
Higgins, S. (2010). A Glimpse of What Is To Come. Devotions for Thought. Higgins Publishing. Http://www.devotionsforthought.blogspot.com, http://www.higginspublishing.com
Beneath the Surface
Scripture: Exodus 1:8
Now a new king arose over Egypt, who did not know Joseph.
Commentary:
Joseph had passed away, as well as his brothers and all of his generation. However, the sons of Israel were fruitful and increased greatly, and multiplied, and became exceedingly mighty, so that the land was filled with them. The new king, aka, (the new Pharaoh), that arose over Egypt, did not know Joseph; or the history that Joseph had with Pharaoh. This new king began reasoning within himself that the people of Israel would rise up against Egypt, and join with their enemies to destroy the Egyptians.
The new king began plotting on how to decrease the numbers of the Israelites. The first plan that he made, was to have the midwives kill any boys that were born. However, the midwives feared God, and created a story that the Israelite women delivered the babies before they could arrive. The next plan Pharaoh came up with, was to cast all the boys that were born into the Nile.
Because this new Pharaoh had no idea about the relationship of Joseph and Pharaoh, he cut off his own blessings. The reason why the original Pharaoh was so blessed, and had so much land, and people, is because God used Joseph to bless him. Now, there is a new Pharaoh that is afraid of what was created to bless him. He ends up tyring to destroy the very lives of the blessed ones. He also placed heavy burdens on the people, with hopes that they would die in slavery. The same people that willing served Pharaoh because of the wisdom that God had given to Joseph, during a time of famine.
Reflection:
It is important that we know the history of our family, and the relationships that have been established. We should never be too busy, that we fail to communicate with those that are in our households; because the lack of communication can lead to misunderstandings that deter growth.
Relationships require time and investment to build, and passing on critical information about the family is essential to the next generation. We must communicate to those that are within our family, to ensure that important information, and blessings; are passed down from one family member to another.
If there is a lack of communication about our history with eachother, we will not know how to treat one another; because we will only have a surface view of what makes us who we are. But if we take time to really get to know one another, we will have stronger relationships from the very beginning.
If we are beginning a new relationship with someone, we should be able to communicate about anything, to build a stronger relationship. If someone is unwilling to let us see them for who they really are, it is best to step away until they are willing. If they continue to be unwilling, it is best to cut our losses in advance, rather than waste time in shallow waters that lack depth.
It is also important for us to realize that anyone that has authority over us, must have a relationship with God; to be an effective leader. If a leader does not have a personal relationship with God, the blessings that God intended for his people will be stagnated, until that leader lines up, or is replaced; just like with the Children of Israel. The taskmaster that was over them, was brutal and merciless. He desired to have complete control over of God's people, even to the point of death. Therefore, he put unnecessary bondage upon the shoulders of the people; not knowing that the people that he was abusing, willing served Pharaoh during the times of Joseph. Let us not sabotage our new beginnings as did Pharaoh.
Prayer:
Father God, let me never be too busy to communicate with anyone that has the desire to communicate with me; especially with members within my own household. Give me a ear to hear what their heart is saying, and to be genuinely concerned about them. I thank you for the skills of communication that you continually give me to build up your kingdom through effective communication.
Strong's Concordance Definitions:
New 2319
1) new, new thing, fresh
Arose: 6975
1) to rise, arise, stand, rise up, stand up
a) (Qal)
1) to arise
2) to arise (hostile sense)
3) to arise, become powerful
4) to arise, come on the scene
5) to stand
a) to maintain oneself
b) to be established, be confirmed
c) to stand, endure
d) to be fixed
e) to be valid
f) to be proven
g) to be fulfilled
h) to persist
i) to be set, be fixed
b) (Piel)
1) to fulfil
2) to confirm, ratify, establish, impose
c) (Polel) to raise up
d) (Hithpael) to raise oneself, rise up
e) (Hiphil)
1) to cause to arise, raise
2) to raise, set up, erect, build
3) to raise up, bring on the scene
4) to raise up, rouse, stir up, investigate
5) to raise up, constitute
6) to cause to stand, set, station, establish
7) to make binding
8) to carry out, give effect to
f) (Hophal) to be raised up
Over: 5921
1) upon, on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against
a) upon, on the ground of, on the basis of, on account of, because of, therefore, on behalf of, for the sake of, for, with, in spite of, notwithstanding, concerning, in the matter of, as regards
b) above, beyond, over (of excess)
c) above, over (of elevation or pre-eminence)
d) upon, to, over to, unto, in addition to, together with, with (of addition)
e) over (of suspension or extension)
f) by, adjoining, next, at, over, around (of contiguity or proximity)
g) down upon, upon, on, from, up upon, up to,, towards, over towards, to, against (with verbs of motion)
h) to (as a dative)
Egypt: 4714
Egypt = "land of the Copts"
1) a country at the northeastern section of Africa, adjacent to Palestine, and through which the Nile flows
adj
Egyptians = "double straits"
2) the inhabitants or natives of Egypt
Egypt = "land of the Copts"
1) a country at the northeastern section of Africa, adjacent to Palestine, and through which the Nile flows
adj
Egyptians = "double straits"
2) the inhabitants or natives of Egypt
Did not know: 3905
1) to know
a) (Qal)
1) to know
a) to know, learn to know
b) to perceive
c) to perceive and see, find out and discern
d) to discriminate, distinguish
e) to know by experience
f) to recognise, admit, acknowledge, confess
g) to consider
2) to know, be acquainted with
3) to know (a person carnally)
4) to know how, be skilful in
5) to have knowledge, be wise
b) (Niphal)
1) to be made known, be or become known, be revealed
2) to make oneself known
3) to be perceived
4) to be instructed
c) (Piel) to cause to know
d) (Poal) to cause to know
e) (Pual)
1) to be known
2) known, one known, acquaintance (participle)
f) (Hiphil) to make known, declare
g) (Hophal) to be made known
h) (Hithpael) to make oneself known, reveal oneself
Joseph: 3130
Joseph = "Jehovah has added"
1) the eldest son of Jacob by Rachel
2) father of Igal, who represented the tribe of Issachar among the spies
3) a son of Asaph
4) a man who took a foreign wife in the time of Ezra
5) a priest of the family of Shebaniah in the time of Nehemiah
References:
Blue Letter Bible. "Book of Exodus 1 - (NASB - New American Standard Bible)." Blue Letter Bible. 1996-2010. 21 Jan 2010. http://www.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=Exd&c=1&t=NASB
Higgins, S (2010). The Power of Communication. Devotions for Thought. Higgins Publishing. Http://www.devotionsforthought.blogspot.com, Http://www.higginspublishing.com
Now a new king arose over Egypt, who did not know Joseph.
Commentary:
Joseph had passed away, as well as his brothers and all of his generation. However, the sons of Israel were fruitful and increased greatly, and multiplied, and became exceedingly mighty, so that the land was filled with them. The new king, aka, (the new Pharaoh), that arose over Egypt, did not know Joseph; or the history that Joseph had with Pharaoh. This new king began reasoning within himself that the people of Israel would rise up against Egypt, and join with their enemies to destroy the Egyptians.
The new king began plotting on how to decrease the numbers of the Israelites. The first plan that he made, was to have the midwives kill any boys that were born. However, the midwives feared God, and created a story that the Israelite women delivered the babies before they could arrive. The next plan Pharaoh came up with, was to cast all the boys that were born into the Nile.
Because this new Pharaoh had no idea about the relationship of Joseph and Pharaoh, he cut off his own blessings. The reason why the original Pharaoh was so blessed, and had so much land, and people, is because God used Joseph to bless him. Now, there is a new Pharaoh that is afraid of what was created to bless him. He ends up tyring to destroy the very lives of the blessed ones. He also placed heavy burdens on the people, with hopes that they would die in slavery. The same people that willing served Pharaoh because of the wisdom that God had given to Joseph, during a time of famine.
Reflection:
It is important that we know the history of our family, and the relationships that have been established. We should never be too busy, that we fail to communicate with those that are in our households; because the lack of communication can lead to misunderstandings that deter growth.
Relationships require time and investment to build, and passing on critical information about the family is essential to the next generation. We must communicate to those that are within our family, to ensure that important information, and blessings; are passed down from one family member to another.
If there is a lack of communication about our history with eachother, we will not know how to treat one another; because we will only have a surface view of what makes us who we are. But if we take time to really get to know one another, we will have stronger relationships from the very beginning.
If we are beginning a new relationship with someone, we should be able to communicate about anything, to build a stronger relationship. If someone is unwilling to let us see them for who they really are, it is best to step away until they are willing. If they continue to be unwilling, it is best to cut our losses in advance, rather than waste time in shallow waters that lack depth.
It is also important for us to realize that anyone that has authority over us, must have a relationship with God; to be an effective leader. If a leader does not have a personal relationship with God, the blessings that God intended for his people will be stagnated, until that leader lines up, or is replaced; just like with the Children of Israel. The taskmaster that was over them, was brutal and merciless. He desired to have complete control over of God's people, even to the point of death. Therefore, he put unnecessary bondage upon the shoulders of the people; not knowing that the people that he was abusing, willing served Pharaoh during the times of Joseph. Let us not sabotage our new beginnings as did Pharaoh.
Prayer:
Father God, let me never be too busy to communicate with anyone that has the desire to communicate with me; especially with members within my own household. Give me a ear to hear what their heart is saying, and to be genuinely concerned about them. I thank you for the skills of communication that you continually give me to build up your kingdom through effective communication.
Strong's Concordance Definitions:
New 2319
1) new, new thing, fresh
Arose: 6975
1) to rise, arise, stand, rise up, stand up
a) (Qal)
1) to arise
2) to arise (hostile sense)
3) to arise, become powerful
4) to arise, come on the scene
5) to stand
a) to maintain oneself
b) to be established, be confirmed
c) to stand, endure
d) to be fixed
e) to be valid
f) to be proven
g) to be fulfilled
h) to persist
i) to be set, be fixed
b) (Piel)
1) to fulfil
2) to confirm, ratify, establish, impose
c) (Polel) to raise up
d) (Hithpael) to raise oneself, rise up
e) (Hiphil)
1) to cause to arise, raise
2) to raise, set up, erect, build
3) to raise up, bring on the scene
4) to raise up, rouse, stir up, investigate
5) to raise up, constitute
6) to cause to stand, set, station, establish
7) to make binding
8) to carry out, give effect to
f) (Hophal) to be raised up
Over: 5921
1) upon, on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against
a) upon, on the ground of, on the basis of, on account of, because of, therefore, on behalf of, for the sake of, for, with, in spite of, notwithstanding, concerning, in the matter of, as regards
b) above, beyond, over (of excess)
c) above, over (of elevation or pre-eminence)
d) upon, to, over to, unto, in addition to, together with, with (of addition)
e) over (of suspension or extension)
f) by, adjoining, next, at, over, around (of contiguity or proximity)
g) down upon, upon, on, from, up upon, up to,, towards, over towards, to, against (with verbs of motion)
h) to (as a dative)
Egypt: 4714
Egypt = "land of the Copts"
1) a country at the northeastern section of Africa, adjacent to Palestine, and through which the Nile flows
adj
Egyptians = "double straits"
2) the inhabitants or natives of Egypt
Egypt = "land of the Copts"
1) a country at the northeastern section of Africa, adjacent to Palestine, and through which the Nile flows
adj
Egyptians = "double straits"
2) the inhabitants or natives of Egypt
Did not know: 3905
1) to know
a) (Qal)
1) to know
a) to know, learn to know
b) to perceive
c) to perceive and see, find out and discern
d) to discriminate, distinguish
e) to know by experience
f) to recognise, admit, acknowledge, confess
g) to consider
2) to know, be acquainted with
3) to know (a person carnally)
4) to know how, be skilful in
5) to have knowledge, be wise
b) (Niphal)
1) to be made known, be or become known, be revealed
2) to make oneself known
3) to be perceived
4) to be instructed
c) (Piel) to cause to know
d) (Poal) to cause to know
e) (Pual)
1) to be known
2) known, one known, acquaintance (participle)
f) (Hiphil) to make known, declare
g) (Hophal) to be made known
h) (Hithpael) to make oneself known, reveal oneself
Joseph: 3130
Joseph = "Jehovah has added"
1) the eldest son of Jacob by Rachel
2) father of Igal, who represented the tribe of Issachar among the spies
3) a son of Asaph
4) a man who took a foreign wife in the time of Ezra
5) a priest of the family of Shebaniah in the time of Nehemiah
References:
Blue Letter Bible. "Book of Exodus 1 - (NASB - New American Standard Bible)." Blue Letter Bible. 1996-2010. 21 Jan 2010. http://www.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=Exd&c=1&t=NASB
Higgins, S (2010). The Power of Communication. Devotions for Thought. Higgins Publishing. Http://www.devotionsforthought.blogspot.com, Http://www.higginspublishing.com
Thursday
Joseph, Pharaoh & Pharaoh
Scripture: Exodus 1:8
Now a new king arose over Egypt, who did not know Joseph.
Commentary:
Joseph had passed away, as well as his brothers and all of his generation. However, the sons of Israel were fruitful and increased greatly, and multiplied, and became exceedingly mighty, so that the land was filled with them. The new king, aka, (the new Pharaoh), that arose over Egypt, did not know Joseph; or the history that Joseph had with Pharaoh. This new king began reasoning within himself that the people of Israel would rise up against Egypt, and join with their enemies to destroy the Egyptians.
The new king began plotting on how to decrease the numbers of the Israelites. The first plan that he made, was to have the midwives kill any boys that were born. However, the midwives feared God, and created a story that the Israelite women delivered the babies before they could arrive. The next plan Pharaoh came up with, was to cast all the boys that were born into the Nile.
Because this new Pharaoh had no idea about the relationship of Joseph and Pharaoh, he cut off his own blessings. The reason why the original Pharaoh was so blessed, and had so much land, and people, is because God used Joseph to bless him. Now, there is a new Pharaoh that is afraid of what was created to bless him. He ends up tyring to destroy the very lives of the blessed ones. He also placed heavy burdens on the people, with hopes that they would die in slavery. The same people that willing served Pharaoh because of the wisdom that God had given to Joseph, during a time of famine.
Reflection:
It is important that we know the history of our family, and the relationships that have been established. We should never be too busy, that we fail to communicate with those that are in our households; because the lack of communication can lead to misunderstandings that deter growth.
Relationships require time and investment to build, and passing on critical information about the family is essential to the next generation. We must communicate to those that are within our family, to ensure that important information, and blessings; are passed down from one family member to another.
If there is a lack of communication about our history with eachother, we will not know how to treat one another; because we will only have a surface view of what makes us who we are. But if we take time to really get to know one another, we will have stronger relationships from the very beginning.
If we are beginning a new relationship with someone, we should be able to communicate about anything, to build a stronger relationship. If a person is unwilling to share their history, it is best to step away until they are willing. If they continue to be unwilling, it is best to cut our losses in advance, rather than waste time in shallow waters that lack depth.
It is also important for us to realize that anyone that has authority over us, must have a relationship with God; to be an effective leader. If a leader does not have a personal relationship with God, the blessings that God intended for his people will be stagnated, until that leader lines up, or is replaced; just like with the Children of Israel. The taskmaster that was over them, was brutal and merciless. He desired to have complete control over of God's people, even to the point of death. Therefore, he put unnecessary bondage upon the shoulders of the people; not knowing that the people that he was abusing, willing served Pharaoh during the times of Joseph. Let us not sabotage our new beginnings as did Pharaoh.
Prayer:
Father God, let me never be too busy to communicate with anyone that has the desire to communicate with me; especially with members within my own household. Give me a ear to hear what their heart is saying, and to be genuinely concerned about them. I thank you for the skills of communication that you continually give me to build up your kingdom through effective communication.
Strong's Concordance Definitions:
New 2319
1) new, new thing, fresh
Arose: 6975
1) to rise, arise, stand, rise up, stand up
a) (Qal)
1) to arise
2) to arise (hostile sense)
3) to arise, become powerful
4) to arise, come on the scene
5) to stand
a) to maintain oneself
b) to be established, be confirmed
c) to stand, endure
d) to be fixed
e) to be valid
f) to be proven
g) to be fulfilled
h) to persist
i) to be set, be fixed
b) (Piel)
1) to fulfil
2) to confirm, ratify, establish, impose
c) (Polel) to raise up
d) (Hithpael) to raise oneself, rise up
e) (Hiphil)
1) to cause to arise, raise
2) to raise, set up, erect, build
3) to raise up, bring on the scene
4) to raise up, rouse, stir up, investigate
5) to raise up, constitute
6) to cause to stand, set, station, establish
7) to make binding
8) to carry out, give effect to
f) (Hophal) to be raised up
Over: 5921
1) upon, on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against
a) upon, on the ground of, on the basis of, on account of, because of, therefore, on behalf of, for the sake of, for, with, in spite of, notwithstanding, concerning, in the matter of, as regards
b) above, beyond, over (of excess)
c) above, over (of elevation or pre-eminence)
d) upon, to, over to, unto, in addition to, together with, with (of addition)
e) over (of suspension or extension)
f) by, adjoining, next, at, over, around (of contiguity or proximity)
g) down upon, upon, on, from, up upon, up to,, towards, over towards, to, against (with verbs of motion)
h) to (as a dative)
Egypt: 4714
Egypt = "land of the Copts"
1) a country at the northeastern section of Africa, adjacent to Palestine, and through which the Nile flows
adj
Egyptians = "double straits"
2) the inhabitants or natives of Egypt
Egypt = "land of the Copts"
1) a country at the northeastern section of Africa, adjacent to Palestine, and through which the Nile flows
adj
Egyptians = "double straits"
2) the inhabitants or natives of Egypt
Did not know: 3905
1) to know
a) (Qal)
1) to know
a) to know, learn to know
b) to perceive
c) to perceive and see, find out and discern
d) to discriminate, distinguish
e) to know by experience
f) to recognise, admit, acknowledge, confess
g) to consider
2) to know, be acquainted with
3) to know (a person carnally)
4) to know how, be skilful in
5) to have knowledge, be wise
b) (Niphal)
1) to be made known, be or become known, be revealed
2) to make oneself known
3) to be perceived
4) to be instructed
c) (Piel) to cause to know
d) (Poal) to cause to know
e) (Pual)
1) to be known
2) known, one known, acquaintance (participle)
f) (Hiphil) to make known, declare
g) (Hophal) to be made known
h) (Hithpael) to make oneself known, reveal oneself
Joseph: 3130
Joseph = "Jehovah has added"
1) the eldest son of Jacob by Rachel
2) father of Igal, who represented the tribe of Issachar among the spies
3) a son of Asaph
4) a man who took a foreign wife in the time of Ezra
5) a priest of the family of Shebaniah in the time of Nehemiah
References:
Blue Letter Bible. "Book of Exodus 1 - (NASB - New American Standard Bible)." Blue Letter Bible. 1996-2010. 21 Jan 2010. http://www.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=Exd&c=1&t=NASB
Higgins, S (2010). The Power of Communication. Devotions for Thought. Higgins Publishing. Http://www.devotionsforthought.blogspot.com, Http://www.higginspublishing.com
Now a new king arose over Egypt, who did not know Joseph.
Commentary:
Joseph had passed away, as well as his brothers and all of his generation. However, the sons of Israel were fruitful and increased greatly, and multiplied, and became exceedingly mighty, so that the land was filled with them. The new king, aka, (the new Pharaoh), that arose over Egypt, did not know Joseph; or the history that Joseph had with Pharaoh. This new king began reasoning within himself that the people of Israel would rise up against Egypt, and join with their enemies to destroy the Egyptians.
The new king began plotting on how to decrease the numbers of the Israelites. The first plan that he made, was to have the midwives kill any boys that were born. However, the midwives feared God, and created a story that the Israelite women delivered the babies before they could arrive. The next plan Pharaoh came up with, was to cast all the boys that were born into the Nile.
Because this new Pharaoh had no idea about the relationship of Joseph and Pharaoh, he cut off his own blessings. The reason why the original Pharaoh was so blessed, and had so much land, and people, is because God used Joseph to bless him. Now, there is a new Pharaoh that is afraid of what was created to bless him. He ends up tyring to destroy the very lives of the blessed ones. He also placed heavy burdens on the people, with hopes that they would die in slavery. The same people that willing served Pharaoh because of the wisdom that God had given to Joseph, during a time of famine.
Reflection:
It is important that we know the history of our family, and the relationships that have been established. We should never be too busy, that we fail to communicate with those that are in our households; because the lack of communication can lead to misunderstandings that deter growth.
Relationships require time and investment to build, and passing on critical information about the family is essential to the next generation. We must communicate to those that are within our family, to ensure that important information, and blessings; are passed down from one family member to another.
If there is a lack of communication about our history with eachother, we will not know how to treat one another; because we will only have a surface view of what makes us who we are. But if we take time to really get to know one another, we will have stronger relationships from the very beginning.
If we are beginning a new relationship with someone, we should be able to communicate about anything, to build a stronger relationship. If a person is unwilling to share their history, it is best to step away until they are willing. If they continue to be unwilling, it is best to cut our losses in advance, rather than waste time in shallow waters that lack depth.
It is also important for us to realize that anyone that has authority over us, must have a relationship with God; to be an effective leader. If a leader does not have a personal relationship with God, the blessings that God intended for his people will be stagnated, until that leader lines up, or is replaced; just like with the Children of Israel. The taskmaster that was over them, was brutal and merciless. He desired to have complete control over of God's people, even to the point of death. Therefore, he put unnecessary bondage upon the shoulders of the people; not knowing that the people that he was abusing, willing served Pharaoh during the times of Joseph. Let us not sabotage our new beginnings as did Pharaoh.
Prayer:
Father God, let me never be too busy to communicate with anyone that has the desire to communicate with me; especially with members within my own household. Give me a ear to hear what their heart is saying, and to be genuinely concerned about them. I thank you for the skills of communication that you continually give me to build up your kingdom through effective communication.
Strong's Concordance Definitions:
New 2319
1) new, new thing, fresh
Arose: 6975
1) to rise, arise, stand, rise up, stand up
a) (Qal)
1) to arise
2) to arise (hostile sense)
3) to arise, become powerful
4) to arise, come on the scene
5) to stand
a) to maintain oneself
b) to be established, be confirmed
c) to stand, endure
d) to be fixed
e) to be valid
f) to be proven
g) to be fulfilled
h) to persist
i) to be set, be fixed
b) (Piel)
1) to fulfil
2) to confirm, ratify, establish, impose
c) (Polel) to raise up
d) (Hithpael) to raise oneself, rise up
e) (Hiphil)
1) to cause to arise, raise
2) to raise, set up, erect, build
3) to raise up, bring on the scene
4) to raise up, rouse, stir up, investigate
5) to raise up, constitute
6) to cause to stand, set, station, establish
7) to make binding
8) to carry out, give effect to
f) (Hophal) to be raised up
Over: 5921
1) upon, on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against
a) upon, on the ground of, on the basis of, on account of, because of, therefore, on behalf of, for the sake of, for, with, in spite of, notwithstanding, concerning, in the matter of, as regards
b) above, beyond, over (of excess)
c) above, over (of elevation or pre-eminence)
d) upon, to, over to, unto, in addition to, together with, with (of addition)
e) over (of suspension or extension)
f) by, adjoining, next, at, over, around (of contiguity or proximity)
g) down upon, upon, on, from, up upon, up to,, towards, over towards, to, against (with verbs of motion)
h) to (as a dative)
Egypt: 4714
Egypt = "land of the Copts"
1) a country at the northeastern section of Africa, adjacent to Palestine, and through which the Nile flows
adj
Egyptians = "double straits"
2) the inhabitants or natives of Egypt
Egypt = "land of the Copts"
1) a country at the northeastern section of Africa, adjacent to Palestine, and through which the Nile flows
adj
Egyptians = "double straits"
2) the inhabitants or natives of Egypt
Did not know: 3905
1) to know
a) (Qal)
1) to know
a) to know, learn to know
b) to perceive
c) to perceive and see, find out and discern
d) to discriminate, distinguish
e) to know by experience
f) to recognise, admit, acknowledge, confess
g) to consider
2) to know, be acquainted with
3) to know (a person carnally)
4) to know how, be skilful in
5) to have knowledge, be wise
b) (Niphal)
1) to be made known, be or become known, be revealed
2) to make oneself known
3) to be perceived
4) to be instructed
c) (Piel) to cause to know
d) (Poal) to cause to know
e) (Pual)
1) to be known
2) known, one known, acquaintance (participle)
f) (Hiphil) to make known, declare
g) (Hophal) to be made known
h) (Hithpael) to make oneself known, reveal oneself
Joseph: 3130
Joseph = "Jehovah has added"
1) the eldest son of Jacob by Rachel
2) father of Igal, who represented the tribe of Issachar among the spies
3) a son of Asaph
4) a man who took a foreign wife in the time of Ezra
5) a priest of the family of Shebaniah in the time of Nehemiah
References:
Blue Letter Bible. "Book of Exodus 1 - (NASB - New American Standard Bible)." Blue Letter Bible. 1996-2010. 21 Jan 2010. http://www.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=Exd&c=1&t=NASB
Higgins, S (2010). The Power of Communication. Devotions for Thought. Higgins Publishing. Http://www.devotionsforthought.blogspot.com, Http://www.higginspublishing.com
Wednesday
Heart To Heart Communication
Scripture: Genesis 50:15-21
As for you, you meant evil against me, {but} God meant it for good in order to bring about this present result, to preserve many people alive [Genesis 5:20].
Israel blessed his sons on his death bed, and then lay down to sleep. Joseph wept bitterly because his father, in whom he loved dearly, was now dead. There was a time of mourning for 70 days in the land of Egypt, after the death of Israel. When it was time to bury Israel, Joseph asked permission from Pharoah to bury his father in the land of Caanaan. Pharoah granted him permission, and also allowed a large company under his leadership to accompany Joseph, to bury his father; during his time of lost.
Once Joseph's father was buried, his brothers began to panick. They thought that he would repay them the evil, that they had brought on him; through selling him into slavery. They're fear made them create a scenario that did not even exist in his mind. When they told Joseph that they would be his slaves, he told them that what they meant for evil, God meant it for Good; and that he was not in God's place.
He told them what had happened, happened in order to bring the family together, and to perserve life for many others. He also told them that he would take care of them, and their little ones. The family was completely restored because of God's plan for their lives, which allowed Joseph to have a forgiving heart towards his brothers.
Reflection:
Our conscious sometimes gets the best of us. Sometimes, we have a habit of thinking the worst of something, rather than thinking the best. When we began to try an analyze how someone else is thinking, we get completely off track, and began creating scenarios that do not even exist. That's why it is best to communicate with one another, about what is on our minds; so that there is complete clarity in our relationships. When we communicate with one another, we create healthy relationships that continually expand and develop for purpose.
Even though Joseph brothers were afraid of what possibly could happen because of their past deeds, they kept the lines of communication open between them, and their brother. Their willingless to be bare before their little brother, opened up all of their hearts, towards complete reconciliation.
Prayer:
Father God, I thank you for allowing me to see as you see; and to not hold any grudges, regardless of what has happened to me in my past. I realize that holding on to past offenses, will only block my progress in you. I desire to be complete in you, therefore, I release any and all offenses that would blind the vision; that you have placed in me. I thank you for giving me a forgiving heart, that no offense can penetrate. In Jesus name, I pray. Amen.
Strong's Concordance Definitions:
As for you, you meant: 2803
1) to think, plan, esteem, calculate, invent, make a judgment, imagine, count
a) (Qal)
1) to think, account
2) to plan, devise, mean
3) to charge, impute, reckon
4) to esteem, value, regard
5) to invent
b) (Niphal)
1) to be accounted, be thought, be esteemed
2) to be computed, be reckoned
3) to be imputed
c) (Piel)
1) to think upon, consider, be mindful of
2) to think to do, devise, plan
3) to count, reckon
d) (Hithpael) to be considered
Evil: 7463
1) friend, friend of the king (technical sense)
Against: 5921
1) upon, on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against
a) upon, on the ground of, on the basis of, on account of, because of, therefore, on behalf of, for the sake of, for, with, in spite of, notwithstanding, concerning, in the matter of, as regards
b) above, beyond, over (of excess)
c) above, over (of elevation or pre-eminence)
d) upon, to, over to, unto, in addition to, together with, with (of addition)
e) over (of suspension or extension)
f) by, adjoining, next, at, over, around (of contiguity or proximity)
g) down upon, upon, on, from, up upon, up to,, towards, over towards, to, against (with verbs of motion)
h) to (as a dative)
conj
2) because that, because, notwithstanding, although
me, but God: 430
1) (plural)
a) rulers, judges
b) divine ones
c) angels
d) gods
2) (plural intensive - singular meaning)
a) god, goddess
b) godlike one
c) works or special possessions of God
d) the (true) God
e) God
it for good: 2899
Tob-adonijah = "my Lord is good"
1) one of the Levites sent by Jehoshaphat through the cities of Judah to teach the law to the people
In order: 4616
1) purpose, intent
prep
a) for the sake of
b) in view of, on account of
c) for the purpose of, to the intent that, in order to
conj
d) to the end that
To bring about: 6213
1) to do, fashion, accomplish, make
a) (Qal)
1) to do, work, make, produce
a) to do
b) to work
c) to deal (with)
d) to act, act with effect, effect
2) to make
a) to make
b) to produce
c) to prepare
d) to make (an offering)
e) to attend to, put in order
f) to observe, celebrate
g) to acquire (property)
h) to appoint, ordain, institute
i) to bring about
j) to use
k) to spend, pass
b) (Niphal)
1) to be done
2) to be made
3) to be produced
4) to be offered
5) to be observed
6) to be used
c) (Pual) to be made
2) (Piel) to press, squeeze
present: 3117
1) day, time, year
a) day (as opposed to night)
b) day (24 hour period)
1) as defined by evening and morning in Genesis 1
2) as a division of time
a) a working day, a day's journey
c) days, lifetime (pl.)
d) time, period (general)
e) year
f) temporal references
1) today
2) yesterday
3) tomorrow
Result to perserve: 2421
1) to live, have life, remain alive, sustain life, live prosperously, live for ever, be quickened, be alive, be restored to life or health
a) (Qal)
1) to live
a) to have life
b) to continue in life, remain alive
c) to sustain life, to live on or upon
d) to live (prosperously)
2) to revive, be quickened
a) from sickness
b) from discouragement
c) from faintness
d) from death
b) (Piel)
1) to preserve alive, let live
2) to give life
3) to quicken, revive, refresh
a) to restore to life
b) to cause to grow
c) to restore
d) to revive
c) (Hiphil)
1) to preserve alive, let live
2) to quicken, revive
a) to restore (to health)
b) to revive
c) to restore to life
References:
Blue Letter Bible. "Book of Beginnings - Genesis 50 - (NASB - New American Standard Bible)." Blue Letter Bible. 1996-2010. 20 Jan 2010, http://www.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=Gen&c=50&t=NASB
Higgins, S. (2010). A Forgiving Heart. Devotions for Thought. Higgins Publishing. Http://www.devotionsforthought.blogspot.com, http://www.higginspublishing.com
As for you, you meant evil against me, {but} God meant it for good in order to bring about this present result, to preserve many people alive [Genesis 5:20].
Israel blessed his sons on his death bed, and then lay down to sleep. Joseph wept bitterly because his father, in whom he loved dearly, was now dead. There was a time of mourning for 70 days in the land of Egypt, after the death of Israel. When it was time to bury Israel, Joseph asked permission from Pharoah to bury his father in the land of Caanaan. Pharoah granted him permission, and also allowed a large company under his leadership to accompany Joseph, to bury his father; during his time of lost.
Once Joseph's father was buried, his brothers began to panick. They thought that he would repay them the evil, that they had brought on him; through selling him into slavery. They're fear made them create a scenario that did not even exist in his mind. When they told Joseph that they would be his slaves, he told them that what they meant for evil, God meant it for Good; and that he was not in God's place.
He told them what had happened, happened in order to bring the family together, and to perserve life for many others. He also told them that he would take care of them, and their little ones. The family was completely restored because of God's plan for their lives, which allowed Joseph to have a forgiving heart towards his brothers.
Reflection:
Our conscious sometimes gets the best of us. Sometimes, we have a habit of thinking the worst of something, rather than thinking the best. When we began to try an analyze how someone else is thinking, we get completely off track, and began creating scenarios that do not even exist. That's why it is best to communicate with one another, about what is on our minds; so that there is complete clarity in our relationships. When we communicate with one another, we create healthy relationships that continually expand and develop for purpose.
Even though Joseph brothers were afraid of what possibly could happen because of their past deeds, they kept the lines of communication open between them, and their brother. Their willingless to be bare before their little brother, opened up all of their hearts, towards complete reconciliation.
Prayer:
Father God, I thank you for allowing me to see as you see; and to not hold any grudges, regardless of what has happened to me in my past. I realize that holding on to past offenses, will only block my progress in you. I desire to be complete in you, therefore, I release any and all offenses that would blind the vision; that you have placed in me. I thank you for giving me a forgiving heart, that no offense can penetrate. In Jesus name, I pray. Amen.
Strong's Concordance Definitions:
As for you, you meant: 2803
1) to think, plan, esteem, calculate, invent, make a judgment, imagine, count
a) (Qal)
1) to think, account
2) to plan, devise, mean
3) to charge, impute, reckon
4) to esteem, value, regard
5) to invent
b) (Niphal)
1) to be accounted, be thought, be esteemed
2) to be computed, be reckoned
3) to be imputed
c) (Piel)
1) to think upon, consider, be mindful of
2) to think to do, devise, plan
3) to count, reckon
d) (Hithpael) to be considered
Evil: 7463
1) friend, friend of the king (technical sense)
Against: 5921
1) upon, on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against
a) upon, on the ground of, on the basis of, on account of, because of, therefore, on behalf of, for the sake of, for, with, in spite of, notwithstanding, concerning, in the matter of, as regards
b) above, beyond, over (of excess)
c) above, over (of elevation or pre-eminence)
d) upon, to, over to, unto, in addition to, together with, with (of addition)
e) over (of suspension or extension)
f) by, adjoining, next, at, over, around (of contiguity or proximity)
g) down upon, upon, on, from, up upon, up to,, towards, over towards, to, against (with verbs of motion)
h) to (as a dative)
conj
2) because that, because, notwithstanding, although
me, but God: 430
1) (plural)
a) rulers, judges
b) divine ones
c) angels
d) gods
2) (plural intensive - singular meaning)
a) god, goddess
b) godlike one
c) works or special possessions of God
d) the (true) God
e) God
it for good: 2899
Tob-adonijah = "my Lord is good"
1) one of the Levites sent by Jehoshaphat through the cities of Judah to teach the law to the people
In order: 4616
1) purpose, intent
prep
a) for the sake of
b) in view of, on account of
c) for the purpose of, to the intent that, in order to
conj
d) to the end that
To bring about: 6213
1) to do, fashion, accomplish, make
a) (Qal)
1) to do, work, make, produce
a) to do
b) to work
c) to deal (with)
d) to act, act with effect, effect
2) to make
a) to make
b) to produce
c) to prepare
d) to make (an offering)
e) to attend to, put in order
f) to observe, celebrate
g) to acquire (property)
h) to appoint, ordain, institute
i) to bring about
j) to use
k) to spend, pass
b) (Niphal)
1) to be done
2) to be made
3) to be produced
4) to be offered
5) to be observed
6) to be used
c) (Pual) to be made
2) (Piel) to press, squeeze
present: 3117
1) day, time, year
a) day (as opposed to night)
b) day (24 hour period)
1) as defined by evening and morning in Genesis 1
2) as a division of time
a) a working day, a day's journey
c) days, lifetime (pl.)
d) time, period (general)
e) year
f) temporal references
1) today
2) yesterday
3) tomorrow
Result to perserve: 2421
1) to live, have life, remain alive, sustain life, live prosperously, live for ever, be quickened, be alive, be restored to life or health
a) (Qal)
1) to live
a) to have life
b) to continue in life, remain alive
c) to sustain life, to live on or upon
d) to live (prosperously)
2) to revive, be quickened
a) from sickness
b) from discouragement
c) from faintness
d) from death
b) (Piel)
1) to preserve alive, let live
2) to give life
3) to quicken, revive, refresh
a) to restore to life
b) to cause to grow
c) to restore
d) to revive
c) (Hiphil)
1) to preserve alive, let live
2) to quicken, revive
a) to restore (to health)
b) to revive
c) to restore to life
References:
Blue Letter Bible. "Book of Beginnings - Genesis 50 - (NASB - New American Standard Bible)." Blue Letter Bible. 1996-2010. 20 Jan 2010, http://www.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=Gen&c=50&t=NASB
Higgins, S. (2010). A Forgiving Heart. Devotions for Thought. Higgins Publishing. Http://www.devotionsforthought.blogspot.com, http://www.higginspublishing.com
Tuesday
Blessings In Reverse
Scripture: Genesis 48:14
But Israel stretched out his right hand and laid it on the head of Ephraim, who was the younger, and his left hand on Manasseh's head, crossing his hands, although Manasseh was the firstborn.
Commentary:
Israel, whose name was Jacob at one time, was very ill; and knew that it was time for him to die. However, before he died he made sure to bless the children of his son Joseph, "Mannaseh and Ephraim." Israel felt so blessed by God that his son, Joseph was alive, and that he had also been able to see his son's sons. He thought that Joseph had been killed by a wild animal in his youth. But God, made advance provision for the family, through what appeared to be a traumatic experience. God used Joseph, the son in whom Israel loved dearly, to deliver his entire family in a time of famine; through the authority that he gained in a time of slavery.
Even though the sons of Israel were jealous of Joseph when they were younger, and it caused them to behave like animals. Joseph did not hold it against them at all. He allowed God to use him to take care of his family in whom he still loved, regardless of how they had treated him. He held nothing back from blessing them. He had learned the gift of blessing those around you from his father. However, he was still somewhat locked into the traditional order of things; in which he had learned as a youth.
Joseph thought that the blessing from the father should go to the oldest, as custom had always been. But Israel purposely crossed his hands to bless Joseph's sons, and his right hand landed on the head of Ephraim, the youngest son. When Joseph noticed this, he grasphed his father's hand, and told his father that his right hand was on the youngest, and it should be on the oldest. Israel told him that he knew, but both sons would be blessed; and that the older would server the younger.
Joseph probably had a flashback at the time, and didn't want any incidents like he experienced as a youth; after all that he had been through with his own brothers, who hated him, and sold him into slavery. He loved his sons, and didn't want that kind of situation to repeat itself. However, his father commanded the blessing in reverse order, and he respected the wishes of his father.
Reflection:
There are many situations that arise that come into question, about the position of leadership. There are many hoops to go through that are man-made. There are many rules to follow in order for someone to move forward into a place of authority. One thing that is often considered, is the age of an individual, as well as their background history; and sometimes, even their financial status. However, when God places his hand on a person for his purposes, man-made rules go out the door. The age of an individual does not matter, nor does typical protocal come into play. The standard for what God himself approves, need only be approved by Him. He is the ultimate authority on who He puts into position. A person's history, financial status, age, or level of confidence, has nothing to do with it whatsoever.
Prayer:
Father God, I thank you for your divine order of putting things in order according to your perfect will. You are the ultimate authority on who will be placed in authority; for the purpose of building your kingdom. I thank you, and I praise your name; for a heart to deliver those that have been in captivity, to the point that they cannot see their way out. I thank you for the mercy, and grace, that you have shown in my life, in order for me to do the same. In Jesus name, I pray, Amen.
Strong's Concordance Definitions:
Israel: 3478
Israel = "God prevails"
1) the second name for Jacob given to him by God after his wrestling with the angel at Peniel
2) the name of the descendants and the nation of the descendants of Jacob
a) the name of the nation until the death of Solomon and the split
b) the name used and given to the northern kingdom consisting of the 10 tribes under Jeroboam; the southern kingdom was known as Judah
c) the name of the nation after the return from exile
stretched: 7971
1) to send, send away, let go, stretch out
a) (Qal)
1) to send
2) to stretch out, extend, direct
3) to send away
4) to let loose
b) (Niphal) to be sent
c) (Piel)
1) to send off or away or out or forth, dismiss, give over, cast out
2) to let go, set free
3) to shoot forth (of branches)
4) to let down
5) to shoot
d) (Pual) to be sent off, be put away, be divorced, be impelled
e) (Hiphil) to send
and laid: 7896
1) to put, set
a) (Qal)
1) to put, lay (hand upon)
2) to set, station, appoint, fix, set mind to
3) to constitute, make (one something), make like, perform
4) to take one's stand
5) to lay waste
b) (Hophal) to be imposed, be set upon
it on the head:7218
1) head, top, summit, upper part, chief, total, sum, height, front, beginning
a) head (of man, animals)
b) top, tip (of mountain)
c) height (of stars)
d) chief, head (of man, city, nation, place, family, priest)
e) head, front, beginning
f) chief, choicest, best
g) head, division, company, band
h) sum
of Ephraim: 669
Ephraim = "double ash-heap: I shall be doubly fruitful"
1) second son of Joseph, blessed by him and given preference over first son, Manasseh
2) the tribe, Ephraim
3) the mountain country of Ephraim
4) sometimes used name for the northern kingdom (Hosea or Isaiah)
5) a city near Baal-hazor
6) a chief gate of Jerusalem
the younger: 6810
1) little, insignificant, young
a) little, insignificant
b) insignificant, mean
c) young, younger, youngest
Mannaseh: 4519
Manasseh = "causing to forget"
1) the eldest son of Joseph and progenitor of the tribe of Manasseh
a) the tribe descended from Manasseh
b) the territory occupied by the tribe of Manasseh
2) son of king Hezekiah of Judah and himself king of Judah; he was the immediate and direct cause for the exile
3) a descendant of Pahath-moab who put away a foreign wife in the time of Ezra
4) a descendant of Hashum who put away a foreign wife in the time of Ezra
crossed: 7919
1) to be prudent, be circumspect, wisely understand, prosper
a) (Qal) to be prudent, be circumspect
b) (Hiphil)
1) to look at or upon, have insight
2) to give attention to, consider, ponder, be prudent
3) to have insight, have comprehension
a) insight, comprehension (subst)
4) to cause to consider, give insight, teach
a) the teachers, the wise
5) to act circumspectly, act prudently, act wisely
6) to prosper, have success
7) to cause to prosper
2) (Piel) to lay crosswise, cross (hands)
his hands: 3027
1) hand
a) hand (of man)
b) strength, power (fig.)
c) side (of land), part, portion (metaph.) (fig.)
d) (various special, technical senses)
1) sign, monument
2) part, fractional part, share
3) time, repetition
4) axle-trees, axle
5) stays, support (for laver)
6) tenons (in tabernacle)
7) a phallus, a hand (meaning unsure)
8) wrists
References:
Blue Letter Bible. "Book of Beginnings - Genesis 48 - (NASB - New American Standard Bible)." Blue Letter Bible. 1996-2010. 19 Jan 2010. http://www.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=Gen&c=48&t=NASB
HIgins, S. (2010). Blessings In Reverse. Devotions for Thought. Higgins Publishing. Http://www.devotionsforthought.blogspot.com.
But Israel stretched out his right hand and laid it on the head of Ephraim, who was the younger, and his left hand on Manasseh's head, crossing his hands, although Manasseh was the firstborn.
Commentary:
Israel, whose name was Jacob at one time, was very ill; and knew that it was time for him to die. However, before he died he made sure to bless the children of his son Joseph, "Mannaseh and Ephraim." Israel felt so blessed by God that his son, Joseph was alive, and that he had also been able to see his son's sons. He thought that Joseph had been killed by a wild animal in his youth. But God, made advance provision for the family, through what appeared to be a traumatic experience. God used Joseph, the son in whom Israel loved dearly, to deliver his entire family in a time of famine; through the authority that he gained in a time of slavery.
Even though the sons of Israel were jealous of Joseph when they were younger, and it caused them to behave like animals. Joseph did not hold it against them at all. He allowed God to use him to take care of his family in whom he still loved, regardless of how they had treated him. He held nothing back from blessing them. He had learned the gift of blessing those around you from his father. However, he was still somewhat locked into the traditional order of things; in which he had learned as a youth.
Joseph thought that the blessing from the father should go to the oldest, as custom had always been. But Israel purposely crossed his hands to bless Joseph's sons, and his right hand landed on the head of Ephraim, the youngest son. When Joseph noticed this, he grasphed his father's hand, and told his father that his right hand was on the youngest, and it should be on the oldest. Israel told him that he knew, but both sons would be blessed; and that the older would server the younger.
Joseph probably had a flashback at the time, and didn't want any incidents like he experienced as a youth; after all that he had been through with his own brothers, who hated him, and sold him into slavery. He loved his sons, and didn't want that kind of situation to repeat itself. However, his father commanded the blessing in reverse order, and he respected the wishes of his father.
Reflection:
There are many situations that arise that come into question, about the position of leadership. There are many hoops to go through that are man-made. There are many rules to follow in order for someone to move forward into a place of authority. One thing that is often considered, is the age of an individual, as well as their background history; and sometimes, even their financial status. However, when God places his hand on a person for his purposes, man-made rules go out the door. The age of an individual does not matter, nor does typical protocal come into play. The standard for what God himself approves, need only be approved by Him. He is the ultimate authority on who He puts into position. A person's history, financial status, age, or level of confidence, has nothing to do with it whatsoever.
Prayer:
Father God, I thank you for your divine order of putting things in order according to your perfect will. You are the ultimate authority on who will be placed in authority; for the purpose of building your kingdom. I thank you, and I praise your name; for a heart to deliver those that have been in captivity, to the point that they cannot see their way out. I thank you for the mercy, and grace, that you have shown in my life, in order for me to do the same. In Jesus name, I pray, Amen.
Strong's Concordance Definitions:
Israel: 3478
Israel = "God prevails"
1) the second name for Jacob given to him by God after his wrestling with the angel at Peniel
2) the name of the descendants and the nation of the descendants of Jacob
a) the name of the nation until the death of Solomon and the split
b) the name used and given to the northern kingdom consisting of the 10 tribes under Jeroboam; the southern kingdom was known as Judah
c) the name of the nation after the return from exile
stretched: 7971
1) to send, send away, let go, stretch out
a) (Qal)
1) to send
2) to stretch out, extend, direct
3) to send away
4) to let loose
b) (Niphal) to be sent
c) (Piel)
1) to send off or away or out or forth, dismiss, give over, cast out
2) to let go, set free
3) to shoot forth (of branches)
4) to let down
5) to shoot
d) (Pual) to be sent off, be put away, be divorced, be impelled
e) (Hiphil) to send
and laid: 7896
1) to put, set
a) (Qal)
1) to put, lay (hand upon)
2) to set, station, appoint, fix, set mind to
3) to constitute, make (one something), make like, perform
4) to take one's stand
5) to lay waste
b) (Hophal) to be imposed, be set upon
it on the head:7218
1) head, top, summit, upper part, chief, total, sum, height, front, beginning
a) head (of man, animals)
b) top, tip (of mountain)
c) height (of stars)
d) chief, head (of man, city, nation, place, family, priest)
e) head, front, beginning
f) chief, choicest, best
g) head, division, company, band
h) sum
of Ephraim: 669
Ephraim = "double ash-heap: I shall be doubly fruitful"
1) second son of Joseph, blessed by him and given preference over first son, Manasseh
2) the tribe, Ephraim
3) the mountain country of Ephraim
4) sometimes used name for the northern kingdom (Hosea or Isaiah)
5) a city near Baal-hazor
6) a chief gate of Jerusalem
the younger: 6810
1) little, insignificant, young
a) little, insignificant
b) insignificant, mean
c) young, younger, youngest
Mannaseh: 4519
Manasseh = "causing to forget"
1) the eldest son of Joseph and progenitor of the tribe of Manasseh
a) the tribe descended from Manasseh
b) the territory occupied by the tribe of Manasseh
2) son of king Hezekiah of Judah and himself king of Judah; he was the immediate and direct cause for the exile
3) a descendant of Pahath-moab who put away a foreign wife in the time of Ezra
4) a descendant of Hashum who put away a foreign wife in the time of Ezra
crossed: 7919
1) to be prudent, be circumspect, wisely understand, prosper
a) (Qal) to be prudent, be circumspect
b) (Hiphil)
1) to look at or upon, have insight
2) to give attention to, consider, ponder, be prudent
3) to have insight, have comprehension
a) insight, comprehension (subst)
4) to cause to consider, give insight, teach
a) the teachers, the wise
5) to act circumspectly, act prudently, act wisely
6) to prosper, have success
7) to cause to prosper
2) (Piel) to lay crosswise, cross (hands)
his hands: 3027
1) hand
a) hand (of man)
b) strength, power (fig.)
c) side (of land), part, portion (metaph.) (fig.)
d) (various special, technical senses)
1) sign, monument
2) part, fractional part, share
3) time, repetition
4) axle-trees, axle
5) stays, support (for laver)
6) tenons (in tabernacle)
7) a phallus, a hand (meaning unsure)
8) wrists
References:
Blue Letter Bible. "Book of Beginnings - Genesis 48 - (NASB - New American Standard Bible)." Blue Letter Bible. 1996-2010. 19 Jan 2010. http://www.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=Gen&c=48&t=NASB
HIgins, S. (2010). Blessings In Reverse. Devotions for Thought. Higgins Publishing. Http://www.devotionsforthought.blogspot.com.
Monday
The Missing Cup
Scripture: Genesis 45: 5
"Now do not be grieved or angry with yourselves, because you sold me here, for God sent me before you to preserve life.
Commentary:
Joseph is speaking with his brothers, whom he had not seen since they had sold him into slavery to the Midianites. He recognized his brothers when they came to the land of Egypt in which he was now in the position of authority for the house of Pharoah. However, his brothers did not recognize him at all.
The main purpose for the brothers going to Egypt in the first place was to get food for their household at the order of their father; because of the famine. When Joseph seen them he came up with a plan to find out if his younger brother Benjamin was still alive. When his brothers departed and came back with Benjamin, he was moved with compassion to see his younger brother, and they celebrated.
The next morning the brothers were sent away to return home. However, the plan was not fully completed. On their way back home they were stopped in their tracks and their sacks were searched for the missing cup. They had no idea that the Joseph cup was in the younger brother's sack. They made a vow to return as slaves if the cup was found, not know that it had been planted by Joseph; as a way to find out for sure if his father was still alive.
When they returned, Judah pleaded with Joseph not to keep the younger brother, but to keep him instead. Joseph could not longer contain himself, and he opening wept in their presence, and let them know that he was their brother in whom they had sold into slavery. He told them not to be grieved or angry with themselves because it was God's plan to put him in a position of authority, in order to take care of his family in a time of famine.
His position of authority was given to him for the purpose of perserving life, and that he would make sure that his entire household was provided for; because God had put him in the position to do so. His dream of ruling and reigning over them, was not a dream of conceit for his purpose.
The dream that Joseph had was a sign of what God would do in the future; to make sure that his family was taken care of. They had no idea that a famine would be in the land for seven years, and they were not prepared for it. However, God knew; and He orchestrated a sequence of events, in order to make sure that their needs were met; well in advance by making Joseph a slave, and servant, to someone in a high position of authority.
After some time had passed, Pharoah cared for Joseph; and took care of him, like he was his own son. Therefore, when Joseph found his family, Pharoah was pleased, and told him that all of their needs would be met. It did not make any difference that Joseph was an Hebrew as well as his family, and Pharoah was an Egyptian; God set in motion the deliverance of his entire family through a foreign people, and land. There was nothing that Joseph could not ask for, that would withheld from him.
Reflection:
The life of Joseph shows us that no matter what we go through in life, God has already worked out our deliverance through a sequence of events; that he has already orchestrated to manifest, throughout a given time period. Even though we cannot see the whole picture, God loves us so much that He would not leave us barren, broken hearted, and without provision and protection. We can find comfort in knowing that God is truly a Good God, and it is not in Him to be someone that He is not. He is His Word, and His Word is Him.
Prayer:
Father God, I thank and praise you for always taking care of me. Even though I cannot see the whole picture of what you have already worked out in my life, I know that you Oh God, have already worked it out. I give you praise and honor for what you have already done in my life; in order to perserve the life of my family, my friends and my neighbors. In Jesus name, I pray. Amen.
Strong's Concordance Definitions:
do not be greived: 6087
1) to hurt, pain, grieve, displease, vex, wrest
a) (Qal) to hurt, pain
b) (Niphal) to be in pain, be pained, be grieved
c) (Piel) to vex, torture
d) (Hiphil) to cause pain
e) (Hithpael) to feel grieved, be vexed
2) to shape, fashion, make, form, stretch into shape, (TWOT) worship
a) (Piel) to shape, form
b) (Hiphil) to form, copy, fashion
or angry: 2734
1) to be hot, furious, burn, become angry, be kindled
a) (Qal) to burn, kindle (anger)
b) (Niphal) to be angry with, be incensed
c) (Hiphil) to burn, kindle
d) (Hithpael) to heat oneself in vexation
with yourselves: 5869
1) eye
a) eye
1) of physical eye
2) as showing mental qualities
3) of mental and spiritual faculties (fig.)
2) spring, fountain
for God: 430
1) (plural)
a) rulers, judges
b) divine ones
c) angels
d) gods
2) (plural intensive - singular meaning)
a) god, goddess
b) godlike one
c) works or special possessions of God
d) the (true) God
e) God
Sent: 7971
1) to send, send away, let go, stretch out
a) (Qal)
1) to send
2) to stretch out, extend, direct
3) to send away
4) to let loose
b) (Niphal) to be sent
c) (Piel)
1) to send off or away or out or forth, dismiss, give over, cast out
2) to let go, set free
3) to shoot forth (of branches)
4) to let down
5) to shoot
d) (Pual) to be sent off, be put away, be divorced, be impelled
e) (Hiphil) to send
me before: 6440
1) face
a) face, faces
b) presence, person
c) face (of seraphim or cherubim)
d) face (of animals)
e) face, surface (of ground)
f) as adv of loc/temp
1) before and behind, toward, in front of, forward, formerly, from beforetime, before
g) with prep
1) in front of, before, to the front of, in the presence of, in the face of, at the face or front of, from the presence of, from before, from before the face of
you to perserve: 4241
1) preservation of life, sustenance
a) preservation of life
b) sustenance
c) reviving
d) the quick of the flesh, live flesh, tender or raw flesh
References:
Blue Letter Bible. "Book of Beginnings - Genesis 45 - (NASB - New American Standard Bible)." Blue Letter Bible. 1996-2010. 18 Jan 2010. http://www.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=Gen&c=45&t=NASB
Higgins, S. (2009) A Servant & A Slave With Authority. Devotions for Thought. Higgins Publishing. Http://www.devotionsforthought.blogspot.com
"Now do not be grieved or angry with yourselves, because you sold me here, for God sent me before you to preserve life.
Commentary:
Joseph is speaking with his brothers, whom he had not seen since they had sold him into slavery to the Midianites. He recognized his brothers when they came to the land of Egypt in which he was now in the position of authority for the house of Pharoah. However, his brothers did not recognize him at all.
The main purpose for the brothers going to Egypt in the first place was to get food for their household at the order of their father; because of the famine. When Joseph seen them he came up with a plan to find out if his younger brother Benjamin was still alive. When his brothers departed and came back with Benjamin, he was moved with compassion to see his younger brother, and they celebrated.
The next morning the brothers were sent away to return home. However, the plan was not fully completed. On their way back home they were stopped in their tracks and their sacks were searched for the missing cup. They had no idea that the Joseph cup was in the younger brother's sack. They made a vow to return as slaves if the cup was found, not know that it had been planted by Joseph; as a way to find out for sure if his father was still alive.
When they returned, Judah pleaded with Joseph not to keep the younger brother, but to keep him instead. Joseph could not longer contain himself, and he opening wept in their presence, and let them know that he was their brother in whom they had sold into slavery. He told them not to be grieved or angry with themselves because it was God's plan to put him in a position of authority, in order to take care of his family in a time of famine.
His position of authority was given to him for the purpose of perserving life, and that he would make sure that his entire household was provided for; because God had put him in the position to do so. His dream of ruling and reigning over them, was not a dream of conceit for his purpose.
The dream that Joseph had was a sign of what God would do in the future; to make sure that his family was taken care of. They had no idea that a famine would be in the land for seven years, and they were not prepared for it. However, God knew; and He orchestrated a sequence of events, in order to make sure that their needs were met; well in advance by making Joseph a slave, and servant, to someone in a high position of authority.
After some time had passed, Pharoah cared for Joseph; and took care of him, like he was his own son. Therefore, when Joseph found his family, Pharoah was pleased, and told him that all of their needs would be met. It did not make any difference that Joseph was an Hebrew as well as his family, and Pharoah was an Egyptian; God set in motion the deliverance of his entire family through a foreign people, and land. There was nothing that Joseph could not ask for, that would withheld from him.
Reflection:
The life of Joseph shows us that no matter what we go through in life, God has already worked out our deliverance through a sequence of events; that he has already orchestrated to manifest, throughout a given time period. Even though we cannot see the whole picture, God loves us so much that He would not leave us barren, broken hearted, and without provision and protection. We can find comfort in knowing that God is truly a Good God, and it is not in Him to be someone that He is not. He is His Word, and His Word is Him.
Prayer:
Father God, I thank and praise you for always taking care of me. Even though I cannot see the whole picture of what you have already worked out in my life, I know that you Oh God, have already worked it out. I give you praise and honor for what you have already done in my life; in order to perserve the life of my family, my friends and my neighbors. In Jesus name, I pray. Amen.
Strong's Concordance Definitions:
do not be greived: 6087
1) to hurt, pain, grieve, displease, vex, wrest
a) (Qal) to hurt, pain
b) (Niphal) to be in pain, be pained, be grieved
c) (Piel) to vex, torture
d) (Hiphil) to cause pain
e) (Hithpael) to feel grieved, be vexed
2) to shape, fashion, make, form, stretch into shape, (TWOT) worship
a) (Piel) to shape, form
b) (Hiphil) to form, copy, fashion
or angry: 2734
1) to be hot, furious, burn, become angry, be kindled
a) (Qal) to burn, kindle (anger)
b) (Niphal) to be angry with, be incensed
c) (Hiphil) to burn, kindle
d) (Hithpael) to heat oneself in vexation
with yourselves: 5869
1) eye
a) eye
1) of physical eye
2) as showing mental qualities
3) of mental and spiritual faculties (fig.)
2) spring, fountain
for God: 430
1) (plural)
a) rulers, judges
b) divine ones
c) angels
d) gods
2) (plural intensive - singular meaning)
a) god, goddess
b) godlike one
c) works or special possessions of God
d) the (true) God
e) God
Sent: 7971
1) to send, send away, let go, stretch out
a) (Qal)
1) to send
2) to stretch out, extend, direct
3) to send away
4) to let loose
b) (Niphal) to be sent
c) (Piel)
1) to send off or away or out or forth, dismiss, give over, cast out
2) to let go, set free
3) to shoot forth (of branches)
4) to let down
5) to shoot
d) (Pual) to be sent off, be put away, be divorced, be impelled
e) (Hiphil) to send
me before: 6440
1) face
a) face, faces
b) presence, person
c) face (of seraphim or cherubim)
d) face (of animals)
e) face, surface (of ground)
f) as adv of loc/temp
1) before and behind, toward, in front of, forward, formerly, from beforetime, before
g) with prep
1) in front of, before, to the front of, in the presence of, in the face of, at the face or front of, from the presence of, from before, from before the face of
you to perserve: 4241
1) preservation of life, sustenance
a) preservation of life
b) sustenance
c) reviving
d) the quick of the flesh, live flesh, tender or raw flesh
References:
Blue Letter Bible. "Book of Beginnings - Genesis 45 - (NASB - New American Standard Bible)." Blue Letter Bible. 1996-2010. 18 Jan 2010. http://www.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=Gen&c=45&t=NASB
Higgins, S. (2009) A Servant & A Slave With Authority. Devotions for Thought. Higgins Publishing. Http://www.devotionsforthought.blogspot.com
Sunday
When A Dreamer Dreams
Scripture: Genesis 41:8
Now in the morning his spirit was troubled, so he sent and called for all the magicians of Egypt, and all its wise men. And Pharaoh told them his dreams, but there was no one who could interpret them to Pharaoh.
The Pharoah of Egypt was having a restless night. He couldn't sleep well, because in the midst of him sleeping he would have a dream that would wake him with questions in his head. The first dream that he had was about fourteen cows. Then he fell asleep again and had another dream about ears of corn. Now he did not understand the dreams that he was having; so he called for magicians to interpet his dreams, as well as the wise men; but no one could interpet his dreams.
That's when the chief cupbearer within his chambers informed him that there was one that could interpet his dreams; one who was a servant that was in the dungeon as a prisoner. Pharoah was not concerned that a servant would give him the answer to the meaning of the dreams; he just wanted to know what they meant. So they called Joseph from the dungeon. When Joseph arrived in the presence of Pharoah, he gave God the glory for giving him the ability that he possessed to reveal the meaning of dreams.
Reflection:
Just as there were wise men and magicians in the time of Joseph, so are there today. However, there are only certain people that God has given the ability to interpet dreams. Not everyone can see what a dreamer sees. When a dreamer dreams, the meaning of the dream is not always clear to the dreamer; until God brings someone that we least expect; into the picture to give the understanding. Nor, can many relate to the mind of dreamer. It takes the anointing of God for us to be able to conceptualize what God is birthing within a dreamer.
Prayer:
Father God, thank you for the ability to dream, and to interpet dreams; so that I will understand your will for my life, and for the lives of others. I thank you that the ability that you have deposited within me, to see what the dreamer sees; will be used for your glory, honor, and praise. In Jesus name, Amen.
Strong's Concordance Definitions:
Magicians: 2748
1) diviner, magician, astrologer
a) engraver, writer (only in derivative sense of one possessed of occult knowledge)
Wise: 2450
1) wise, wise (man)
a) skilful (in technical work)
b) wise (in administration)
c) shrewd, crafty, cunning, wily, subtle
d) learned, shrewd (class of men)
e) prudent
f) wise (ethically and religiously)
Pharoah: 6548
Pharaoh = "great house"
1) the common title of the king of Egypt
References:
Blue Letter Bible. "Book of Beginnings - Genesis 41 - (NASB - New American Standard Bible)." Blue Letter Bible. 1996-2010. 17 Jan 2010. http://www.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=Gen&c=41&t=NASB
Higgins, S. (2009). When A Dreamer Dreams. Devotions for Thought. Higgins Publishing. Http://www.devotionsforthought.blogspot.com
Now in the morning his spirit was troubled, so he sent and called for all the magicians of Egypt, and all its wise men. And Pharaoh told them his dreams, but there was no one who could interpret them to Pharaoh.
The Pharoah of Egypt was having a restless night. He couldn't sleep well, because in the midst of him sleeping he would have a dream that would wake him with questions in his head. The first dream that he had was about fourteen cows. Then he fell asleep again and had another dream about ears of corn. Now he did not understand the dreams that he was having; so he called for magicians to interpet his dreams, as well as the wise men; but no one could interpet his dreams.
That's when the chief cupbearer within his chambers informed him that there was one that could interpet his dreams; one who was a servant that was in the dungeon as a prisoner. Pharoah was not concerned that a servant would give him the answer to the meaning of the dreams; he just wanted to know what they meant. So they called Joseph from the dungeon. When Joseph arrived in the presence of Pharoah, he gave God the glory for giving him the ability that he possessed to reveal the meaning of dreams.
Reflection:
Just as there were wise men and magicians in the time of Joseph, so are there today. However, there are only certain people that God has given the ability to interpet dreams. Not everyone can see what a dreamer sees. When a dreamer dreams, the meaning of the dream is not always clear to the dreamer; until God brings someone that we least expect; into the picture to give the understanding. Nor, can many relate to the mind of dreamer. It takes the anointing of God for us to be able to conceptualize what God is birthing within a dreamer.
Prayer:
Father God, thank you for the ability to dream, and to interpet dreams; so that I will understand your will for my life, and for the lives of others. I thank you that the ability that you have deposited within me, to see what the dreamer sees; will be used for your glory, honor, and praise. In Jesus name, Amen.
Strong's Concordance Definitions:
Magicians: 2748
1) diviner, magician, astrologer
a) engraver, writer (only in derivative sense of one possessed of occult knowledge)
Wise: 2450
1) wise, wise (man)
a) skilful (in technical work)
b) wise (in administration)
c) shrewd, crafty, cunning, wily, subtle
d) learned, shrewd (class of men)
e) prudent
f) wise (ethically and religiously)
Pharoah: 6548
Pharaoh = "great house"
1) the common title of the king of Egypt
References:
Blue Letter Bible. "Book of Beginnings - Genesis 41 - (NASB - New American Standard Bible)." Blue Letter Bible. 1996-2010. 17 Jan 2010. http://www.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=Gen&c=41&t=NASB
Higgins, S. (2009). When A Dreamer Dreams. Devotions for Thought. Higgins Publishing. Http://www.devotionsforthought.blogspot.com
Saturday
In Public and In Private
Scripture: 2 Peter 1:20,21
But know this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture is a matter of one's own interpetation; for no prophecy was ever made by an act of human will, but men moved by the Holy Spirit spoke from God.
The inspired Word of God was truly brought into manifestation by obedient men of God who were inspired to pen the written Word on scrolls, so that we would have instructions on how we as Christians, would know how to conduct ourselves.
God loves us so much that He left a blueprint of grace for us to follow, to find our way back to Him; through the scriptures. He did not make it hard for us, by telling us to be Holy as He is Holy, without leaving us an example of what being Holy is. He showed us through the life of His Son; what being Holy, and set apart really meant.
His life of: love, grace, acceptance, kindness, healing, deliverance, dedication and faithfulness, was an example for us to follow. But, not only did He live righteously; He made sure that we would know what righteousness looks like, through having significant occurrences rendered in written form, for us to reflect upon; and duplicate for His glory.
The grace of God was extended through the death, burial and resurrection of His Son, Jesus Christ, and was manifested in a certified document; that is indisputible through the evidence of time, through the canonization of the Bible. The need for the canonization of the Bible arouse out of the need for one book that the people could refer to as a guide, thus the Council of Carthage was birthed to bring forth one book (Wikepedia, 2009).
The canonization included a list or set of Biblical books considered to be authoritative as scripture by a particular religious community, generally in Judaism or Christianity. Believers consider these canonical books to be inspired by God or to express the authoritative history of the relationship between God and his people (Wikipedia, 2009).
The Bible was written over a time period of 1600 years, by more than 40 authors of every sort; kings, poor people, fishermen, poets, government officials, teachers, prophets. The Bible is written in three different languages, and on three continents - Asia, Africa, and Europe.
The Bible has now been translated in 3000 languages of the 6,800 languages that exist today (Soon Ministries, 2009).
Reflection:
The Word of God is the blueprint of grace, in which God left for us to follow. His blueprint covers every question that we may have about life, and how to handle different situations that come up. God did not leave us helpless. He left us His perfect Will; which is His written Word that teaches us how to conduct ourselves in public and in private.
Prayer:
Father, I thank you that you did no leave me helpless. You have given me a blueprint to follow so that I can always know how to proceed in life, in order to fulfill your will for my life. I thank you for continually guiding me, and leading me through your Word, and I thank you for teaching me how to conduct myself in private and in public. I thank you for wisdom, knowledge and undertstanding in all things pertaining to godliness, the present life, and the life to come. In Jesus name, I pray, Amen.
Strong's Concordance Definitions:
But Know: 1097
1) to learn to know, come to know, get a knowledge of perceive, feel
a) to become known
2) to know, understand, perceive, have knowledge of
a) to understand
b) to know
3) Jewish idiom for sexual intercourse between a man and a woman
4) to become acquainted with, to know
Of all, that no: 3956
1) individually
a) each, every, any, all, the whole, everyone, all things, everything
2) collectively
a) some of all types
Prophecy: 4394
1) prophecy
a) a discourse emanating from divine inspiration and declaring the purposes of God, whether by reproving and admonishing the wicked, or comforting the afflicted, or revealing things hidden; esp. by foretelling future events
b) Used in the NT of the utterance of OT prophets
1) of the prediction of events relating to Christ's kingdom and its speedy triumph, together with the consolations and admonitions pertaining to it, the spirit of prophecy, the divine mind, to which the prophetic faculty is due
2) of the endowment and speech of the Christian teachers called prophets
3) the gifts and utterances of these prophets, esp. of the predictions of the works of which, set apart to teach the gospel, will accomplish for the kingdom of Christ
Of scripture: 1124
1) a writing, thing written
2) the Scripture, used to denote either the book itself, or its contents
3) a certain portion or section of the Holy Scripture
Is a matter of one's: 2398
1) pertaining to one's self, one's own, belonging to one's self
Interpetation: 1955
1) a loosening, unloosing
2) metaph. interpretation
By an act of human: 444
1) a human being, whether male or female
a) generically, to include all human individuals
b) to distinguish man from beings of a different order
1) of animals and plants
2) of from God and Christ
3) of the angels
c) with the added notion of weakness, by which man is led into a mistake or prompted to sin
d) with the adjunct notion of contempt or disdainful pity
e) with reference to two fold nature of man, body and soul
f) with reference to the two fold nature of man, the corrupt and the truly Christian man, conformed to the nature of God
g) with reference to sex, a male
2) indefinitely, someone, a man, one
3) in the plural, people
4) joined with other words, merchantman
Will: 2307
1)what one wishes or has determined shall be done
a) of the purpose of God to bless mankind through Christ
b) of what God wishes to be done by us
1) commands, precepts
2) will, choice, inclination, desire, pleasure
Moved: 5342
1) to carry
a) to carry some burden
1) to bear with one's self
b) to move by bearing; move or, to be conveyed or borne, with the suggestion of force or speed
1) of persons borne in a ship over the sea
2) of a gust of wind, to rush
3) of the mind, to be moved inwardly, prompted
c) to bear up i.e. uphold (keep from falling)
1) of Christ, the preserver of the universe
2) to bear, i.e. endure, to endure the rigour of a thing, to bear patiently one's conduct, or spare one (abstain from punishing or destroying)
3) to bring, bring to, bring forward
a) to move to, apply
b) to bring in by announcing, to announce
c) to bear i.e. bring forth, produce; to bring forward in a speech
d) to lead, conduct
by the Holy: 40
1) most holy thing, a saint
Spirit: 4151
1) the third person of the triune God, the Holy Spirit, coequal, coeternal with the Father and the Son
a) sometimes referred to in a way which emphasises his personality and character (the "Holy" Spirit)
b) sometimes referred to in a way which emphasises his work and power (the Spirit of "Truth")
c) never referred to as a depersonalised force
2) the spirit, i.e. the vital principal by which the body is animated
a) the rational spirit, the power by which the human being feels, thinks, decides
b) the soul
3) a spirit, i.e. a simple essence, devoid of all or at least all grosser matter, and possessed of the power of knowing, desiring, deciding, and acting
a) a life giving spirit
b) human soul that has left the body
c) a spirit higher than man but lower than God, i.e. an angel
1) used of demons, or evil spirits, who were conceived as inhabiting the bodies of men
2) the spiritual nature of Christ, higher than the highest angels and equal to God, the divine nature of Christ
4) the disposition or influence which fills and governs the soul of any one
a) the efficient source of any power, affection, emotion, desire, etc.
5) a movement of air (a gentle blast)
a) of the wind, hence the wind itself
b) breath of nostrils or mouth
Spoke: 2980
1) to utter a voice or emit a sound
2) to speak
a) to use the tongue or the faculty of speech
b) to utter articulate sounds
3) to talk
4) to utter, tell
5) to use words in order to declare one's mind and disclose one's thoughts
a) to speak
From God: 2316
1) a god or goddess, a general name of deities or divinities
2) the Godhead, trinity
a) God the Father, the first person in the trinity
b) Christ, the second person of the trinity
c) Holy Spirit, the third person in the trinity
3) spoken of the only and true God
a) refers to the things of God
b) his counsels, interests, things due to him
4) whatever can in any respect be likened unto God, or resemble him in any way
a) God's representative or viceregent
1) of magistrates and judges
References:
Bibilical Foundations for Freedom. (2009). The Origins of the Bible- The Canonization of the Bible. Retrieved on December 17th, 2009 from http://www.foundationsforfreedom.net/Topics/Bible/Bible_Canonization.html
Blue Letter Bible. "Peter's Second Epistle - 2 Peter 1 - (NASB - New American Standard Bible)." Blue Letter Bible. 1996-2009. 17 Dec 2009. < http://www.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=2Pe&c=1&t=NASB
Higgins, S. (2009). The Blueprint of Grace. Devotions for Thought. http://www.devotionsforthought.blogspot.com, http://www.higginspublishing.com
Soon Ministries. (2009). SOON Online Magazine. THE BIBLE PAGE. THE BIBLE. Retrieved on December 17th, 2009 from http://www.soon.org.uk/page19.htm
Wikepedia. (2009). Bibilcal Canon. Retreived on December 17th, 2009, from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biblical_canon
Wikepedia. (2009). Councils of Cathage. Retrieved on December 17th, 2009, from
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Councils_of_Carthage
But know this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture is a matter of one's own interpetation; for no prophecy was ever made by an act of human will, but men moved by the Holy Spirit spoke from God.
The inspired Word of God was truly brought into manifestation by obedient men of God who were inspired to pen the written Word on scrolls, so that we would have instructions on how we as Christians, would know how to conduct ourselves.
God loves us so much that He left a blueprint of grace for us to follow, to find our way back to Him; through the scriptures. He did not make it hard for us, by telling us to be Holy as He is Holy, without leaving us an example of what being Holy is. He showed us through the life of His Son; what being Holy, and set apart really meant.
His life of: love, grace, acceptance, kindness, healing, deliverance, dedication and faithfulness, was an example for us to follow. But, not only did He live righteously; He made sure that we would know what righteousness looks like, through having significant occurrences rendered in written form, for us to reflect upon; and duplicate for His glory.
The grace of God was extended through the death, burial and resurrection of His Son, Jesus Christ, and was manifested in a certified document; that is indisputible through the evidence of time, through the canonization of the Bible. The need for the canonization of the Bible arouse out of the need for one book that the people could refer to as a guide, thus the Council of Carthage was birthed to bring forth one book (Wikepedia, 2009).
The canonization included a list or set of Biblical books considered to be authoritative as scripture by a particular religious community, generally in Judaism or Christianity. Believers consider these canonical books to be inspired by God or to express the authoritative history of the relationship between God and his people (Wikipedia, 2009).
The Bible was written over a time period of 1600 years, by more than 40 authors of every sort; kings, poor people, fishermen, poets, government officials, teachers, prophets. The Bible is written in three different languages, and on three continents - Asia, Africa, and Europe.
The Bible has now been translated in 3000 languages of the 6,800 languages that exist today (Soon Ministries, 2009).
Reflection:
The Word of God is the blueprint of grace, in which God left for us to follow. His blueprint covers every question that we may have about life, and how to handle different situations that come up. God did not leave us helpless. He left us His perfect Will; which is His written Word that teaches us how to conduct ourselves in public and in private.
Prayer:
Father, I thank you that you did no leave me helpless. You have given me a blueprint to follow so that I can always know how to proceed in life, in order to fulfill your will for my life. I thank you for continually guiding me, and leading me through your Word, and I thank you for teaching me how to conduct myself in private and in public. I thank you for wisdom, knowledge and undertstanding in all things pertaining to godliness, the present life, and the life to come. In Jesus name, I pray, Amen.
Strong's Concordance Definitions:
But Know: 1097
1) to learn to know, come to know, get a knowledge of perceive, feel
a) to become known
2) to know, understand, perceive, have knowledge of
a) to understand
b) to know
3) Jewish idiom for sexual intercourse between a man and a woman
4) to become acquainted with, to know
Of all, that no: 3956
1) individually
a) each, every, any, all, the whole, everyone, all things, everything
2) collectively
a) some of all types
Prophecy: 4394
1) prophecy
a) a discourse emanating from divine inspiration and declaring the purposes of God, whether by reproving and admonishing the wicked, or comforting the afflicted, or revealing things hidden; esp. by foretelling future events
b) Used in the NT of the utterance of OT prophets
1) of the prediction of events relating to Christ's kingdom and its speedy triumph, together with the consolations and admonitions pertaining to it, the spirit of prophecy, the divine mind, to which the prophetic faculty is due
2) of the endowment and speech of the Christian teachers called prophets
3) the gifts and utterances of these prophets, esp. of the predictions of the works of which, set apart to teach the gospel, will accomplish for the kingdom of Christ
Of scripture: 1124
1) a writing, thing written
2) the Scripture, used to denote either the book itself, or its contents
3) a certain portion or section of the Holy Scripture
Is a matter of one's: 2398
1) pertaining to one's self, one's own, belonging to one's self
Interpetation: 1955
1) a loosening, unloosing
2) metaph. interpretation
By an act of human: 444
1) a human being, whether male or female
a) generically, to include all human individuals
b) to distinguish man from beings of a different order
1) of animals and plants
2) of from God and Christ
3) of the angels
c) with the added notion of weakness, by which man is led into a mistake or prompted to sin
d) with the adjunct notion of contempt or disdainful pity
e) with reference to two fold nature of man, body and soul
f) with reference to the two fold nature of man, the corrupt and the truly Christian man, conformed to the nature of God
g) with reference to sex, a male
2) indefinitely, someone, a man, one
3) in the plural, people
4) joined with other words, merchantman
Will: 2307
1)what one wishes or has determined shall be done
a) of the purpose of God to bless mankind through Christ
b) of what God wishes to be done by us
1) commands, precepts
2) will, choice, inclination, desire, pleasure
Moved: 5342
1) to carry
a) to carry some burden
1) to bear with one's self
b) to move by bearing; move or, to be conveyed or borne, with the suggestion of force or speed
1) of persons borne in a ship over the sea
2) of a gust of wind, to rush
3) of the mind, to be moved inwardly, prompted
c) to bear up i.e. uphold (keep from falling)
1) of Christ, the preserver of the universe
2) to bear, i.e. endure, to endure the rigour of a thing, to bear patiently one's conduct, or spare one (abstain from punishing or destroying)
3) to bring, bring to, bring forward
a) to move to, apply
b) to bring in by announcing, to announce
c) to bear i.e. bring forth, produce; to bring forward in a speech
d) to lead, conduct
by the Holy: 40
1) most holy thing, a saint
Spirit: 4151
1) the third person of the triune God, the Holy Spirit, coequal, coeternal with the Father and the Son
a) sometimes referred to in a way which emphasises his personality and character (the "Holy" Spirit)
b) sometimes referred to in a way which emphasises his work and power (the Spirit of "Truth")
c) never referred to as a depersonalised force
2) the spirit, i.e. the vital principal by which the body is animated
a) the rational spirit, the power by which the human being feels, thinks, decides
b) the soul
3) a spirit, i.e. a simple essence, devoid of all or at least all grosser matter, and possessed of the power of knowing, desiring, deciding, and acting
a) a life giving spirit
b) human soul that has left the body
c) a spirit higher than man but lower than God, i.e. an angel
1) used of demons, or evil spirits, who were conceived as inhabiting the bodies of men
2) the spiritual nature of Christ, higher than the highest angels and equal to God, the divine nature of Christ
4) the disposition or influence which fills and governs the soul of any one
a) the efficient source of any power, affection, emotion, desire, etc.
5) a movement of air (a gentle blast)
a) of the wind, hence the wind itself
b) breath of nostrils or mouth
Spoke: 2980
1) to utter a voice or emit a sound
2) to speak
a) to use the tongue or the faculty of speech
b) to utter articulate sounds
3) to talk
4) to utter, tell
5) to use words in order to declare one's mind and disclose one's thoughts
a) to speak
From God: 2316
1) a god or goddess, a general name of deities or divinities
2) the Godhead, trinity
a) God the Father, the first person in the trinity
b) Christ, the second person of the trinity
c) Holy Spirit, the third person in the trinity
3) spoken of the only and true God
a) refers to the things of God
b) his counsels, interests, things due to him
4) whatever can in any respect be likened unto God, or resemble him in any way
a) God's representative or viceregent
1) of magistrates and judges
References:
Bibilical Foundations for Freedom. (2009). The Origins of the Bible- The Canonization of the Bible. Retrieved on December 17th, 2009 from http://www.foundationsforfreedom.net/Topics/Bible/Bible_Canonization.html
Blue Letter Bible. "Peter's Second Epistle - 2 Peter 1 - (NASB - New American Standard Bible)." Blue Letter Bible. 1996-2009. 17 Dec 2009. < http://www.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=2Pe&c=1&t=NASB
Higgins, S. (2009). The Blueprint of Grace. Devotions for Thought. http://www.devotionsforthought.blogspot.com, http://www.higginspublishing.com
Soon Ministries. (2009). SOON Online Magazine. THE BIBLE PAGE. THE BIBLE. Retrieved on December 17th, 2009 from http://www.soon.org.uk/page19.htm
Wikepedia. (2009). Bibilcal Canon. Retreived on December 17th, 2009, from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biblical_canon
Wikepedia. (2009). Councils of Cathage. Retrieved on December 17th, 2009, from
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Councils_of_Carthage
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