Scriptures: John 7:3-6
Therefore His brothers said to Him, "Leave here and go into Judea, so that Your disciples also may see Your works which You are doing. "For no one does anything in secret when he himself seeks to be known publicly. If You do these things, show Yourself to the world." For not even His brothers were believing in Him. So Jesus said to them, my time is not yet here, but your time is always opportune.
Commentary:
The blood brothers of Jesus did not believe that Jesus was who He said that He was. Even though they had seen the miracles that Jesus performed. Based on how they talked to Jesus, they did not respect His authority. Because they had all been raised together; they were so familiar with Jesus, that they thought they could tell him what to do. Just imagine this scenario: the brothers being ridiculed when people approached them, and mocked them saying, "Your brother thinks he's the Messiah!" Yea, right.
So they tried to persuade him into doing something before it was time for him to move, by using scare tactics; that no one believed Him anyway. This must have been a heated conversation, because it steemed from the emotions of fear, and unbelief. Pressures were mounting, and the people were beginning to question the lineage of Jesus; and where did he actually come from.
Regardless of the peer pressure of the people, and of His family, Jesus refused to be controlled by the finite mind of man. He knew that it was not yet time for certain events to take place, and He would not be coersed into moving before it was time. The timeclock that Jesus was on, was that of the Father. No one could reset the clock. Therefore, His mind was made up, of what He would do, and When He would do it; because His mind was not His own, it was the mind of the Father. Therefore it did not matter what other people said to Jesus, He was on a mission, and no one could stop Him from accomplishing what He was purposed to do.
Reflection:
There will be many people that come into our lives, that will try and push us forward into a certain public place of ministry. However, we need to make sure that we have spent time with the Father, so that we will know when it time for us to move forward in Him. Let us not be so quick to move in an unprepared state, due to the lack of patience or trust in Him. When it is time to go forward; God will move us into position, and He will be the one to receive the glory; not us, or man. Our desire should not be, to be known publicly for who we are, but for Whose we are. Time with God is essential for us in knowing ourselves, an knowing, and completing our purpose. Resetting the clock is not an option.
Strong's Concordance Definitions: John 7:4
"For no one does anything in secret when he himself seeks to be known publicly. If You do thes things, show Yourself tothe world."
Does: 4160
1) to make
a) with the names of things made, to produce, construct, form, fashion, etc.
b) to be the authors of, the cause
c) to make ready, to prepare
d) to produce, bear, shoot forth
e) to acquire, to provide a thing for one's self
f) to make a thing out of something
g) to (make i.e.) render one anything
1) to (make i.e.) constitute or appoint one anything, to appoint or ordain one that
2) to (make i.e.) declare one anything
h) to put one forth, to lead him out
i) to make one do something
1) cause one to
j) to be the authors of a thing (to cause, bring about)
2) to do
a) to act rightly, do well
1) to carry out, to execute
b) to do a thing unto one
1) to do to one
c) with designation of time: to pass, spend
d) to celebrate, keep
1) to make ready, and so at the same time to institute, the celebration of the passover
e) to perform: to a promise
Anything: 5100
1) a certain, a certain one
2) some, some time, a while
In secret: 2927
1) hidden, concealed, secret
He himself: 846
1) himself, herself, themselves, itself
2) he, she, it
3) the same
seeks: 2212
1) to seek in order to find
a) to seek a thing
b) to seek [in order to find out] by thinking, meditating, reasoning, to enquire into
c) to seek after, seek for, aim at, strive after
2) to seek i.e. require, demand
a) to crave, demand something from someone
to be known publicly: 3934
1) freedom in speaking, unreservedness in speech
a) openly, frankly, i.e without concealment
b) without ambiguity or circumlocution
c) without the use of figures and comparisons
2) free and fearless confidence, cheerful courage, boldness, assurance
3) the deportment by which one becomes conspicuous or secures publicity
show: 4319
1) to make manifest or visible or known what has been hidden or unknown, to manifest, whether by words, or deeds, or in any other way
a) make actual and visible, realised
b) to make known by teaching
c) to become manifest, be made known
d) of a person
1) expose to view, make manifest, to show one's self, appear
e) to become known, to be plainly recognised, thoroughly understood
1) who and what one is
to the world: 2889
1) an apt and harmonious arrangement or constitution, order, government
2) ornament, decoration, adornment, i.e. the arrangement of the stars, 'the heavenly hosts', as the ornament of the heavens. 1 Pet. 3:3
3) the world, the universe
4) the circle of the earth, the earth
5) the inhabitants of the earth, men, the human family
6) the ungodly multitude; the whole mass of men alienated from God, and therefore hostile to the cause of Christ
7) world affairs, the aggregate of things earthly
a) the whole circle of earthly goods, endowments riches, advantages, pleasures, etc, which although hollow and frail and fleeting, stir desire, seduce from God and are obstacles to the cause of Christ
8) any aggregate or general collection of particulars of any sort
a) the Gentiles as contrasted to the Jews (Rom. 11:12 etc)
b) of believers only, John 1:29; 3:16; 3:17; 6:33; 12:47 1 Cor. 4:9; 2 Cor. 5:19
References:
Blue Letter Bible. "Gospel of John 7 - (NASB - New American Standard Bible)." Blue Letter Bible. 1996-2009. 20 Dec 2009. < http://www.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=Jhn&c=7&t=NASB
Higgins, S. (2009). Resetting The Clock. Devotions for Thought. http://www.devotionsforthought.blogspot.com/, http://www.higginspublishing.com/
Thursday
Sunday
The Dreamer Who Never Gave Up
Scripture: 37:5
Then Joseph had a dream, and when he told it to his brothers, they hated him even more.
Commentary:
Joseph's father had him when he was old in age, and he loved his son more than he loved his older sons. He gave Joseph a beautiful coat of many colors, and gave him responsibilities of tending the flock; even though he was only seventeen years of age. However, Joseph's brothers were jealous of him because their father loved him more, and showed favoritism to him. They also were envious of all the attention that he received from their father.
One night Joseph had a dream, and he relayed the dream to his brothers. He must not have known how his brothers felt about him. They hid their contempt of him so well, that he didn't have a clue. When he told them the dream, they became even more jealous of him. They asked him "will you rule and reign over us?"
Joseph was excited about the dream, and wanted to share it with them, however, they were not excited in the least. Then Joseph had another dream in which he shared with his brothers and his father. This time his father became upset as well as his brothers; but his father kept the saying in his heart.
After some time had passed, the brothers were tending the flock, and they saw Joseph from a far off, coming in their direction. That's when they made a plan to kill him. However, one of the brothers by the name of Rueben suggested that they drop him in a pit where no water was, and they agreed. Once they dropped him in the pit; they sat down to eat. A caravan approached, and another brother suggested that they not leave him there to die, but to sell him into slavery. So that's what they did. Then they told their father a lie about Joseph being torn to shreds by a wild animal; by showing him the coat that was drenched in blood.
Reflection:
Joseph was hated by his own flesh and blood brothers. Those that should have loved him, and taken care of him because he was the youngest. He trusted, and loved them; and wanted to share with them his dreams because he was excited. His brothers could care less about his dreams, and wanted to wipe him off the planet of the earth.
Sharing our dreams with those that we love should be something that we can all do. However, not everyone will be excited about how God is speaking with us. Many people, including those that are closest to us, will not want to hear about how God is going to bless us. There will be those that are envious, and jealous of what God has done, and will do in our lives. Nevertheless, no one will be able to stop what He is doing.
Every thing that we experience is designed to drive us toward our purpose in God. Anything He brings into our life, will propel us into our destiny. Those that choose to celebrate us, invite them into our dreams. Those that choose not too, release them into their yesterday; because they cannot go into our future.
Prayer:
Father God, I thank you for giving me dreams and visions about my life as well as wisdom on who to share them with. I thank you for surrounding me with visionaries with the desires of your heart, to fulfill your purpose in their lives; while encouraging others to do the same. Help me not to be prideful, or arrogant about the things that you speak to me in secret; but to be humble-minded, always depending on you. I thank and praise you for daily wisdom, knowledge and understanding in all things. In Jesus name, amen.
Strong's Concordance Definitions:
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
dream: 2472
1) dream
a) dream (ordinary)
b) dream (with prophetic meaning)
and when he told: 5046
1) to be conspicuous, tell, make known
a) (Hiphil) to tell, declare
1) to tell, announce, report
2) to declare, make known, expound
3) to inform of
4) to publish, declare, proclaim
5) to avow, acknowledge, confess
a) messenger (participle)
b) (Hophal) to be told, be announced, be reported
it to his brothers:251
1) brother
a) brother of same parents
b) half-brother (same father)
c) relative, kinship, same tribe
d) each to the other (reciprocal relationship)
e) (fig.) of resemblance
they hated: 8130
1) to hate, be hateful
a) (Qal) to hate
1) of man
2) of God
3) hater, one hating, enemy (participle) (subst)
b) (Niphal) to be hated
c) (Piel) hater (participle)
1) of persons, nations, God, wisdom
him even: 5750
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
more: 3254
1) to add, increase, do again
a) (Qal) to add, increase, do again
b) (Niphal)
1) to join, join oneself to
2) to be joined, be added to
c) (Hiphil)
1) to cause to add, increase
2) to do more, do again
References:
Blue Letter Bible. "Book of Beginnings - Genesis 37 - (NASB - New American Standard Bible)." Blue Letter Bible. 1996-2010. 15 Jan 2010. http://www.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=Gen&c=37&t=NASB
Higgins, S. (2009). The Dreamer Who Never Gave Up. Devotions for Thought. Higgins Publishing. Http://www.devotionsforthought.blogspot.com
Then Joseph had a dream, and when he told it to his brothers, they hated him even more.
Commentary:
Joseph's father had him when he was old in age, and he loved his son more than he loved his older sons. He gave Joseph a beautiful coat of many colors, and gave him responsibilities of tending the flock; even though he was only seventeen years of age. However, Joseph's brothers were jealous of him because their father loved him more, and showed favoritism to him. They also were envious of all the attention that he received from their father.
One night Joseph had a dream, and he relayed the dream to his brothers. He must not have known how his brothers felt about him. They hid their contempt of him so well, that he didn't have a clue. When he told them the dream, they became even more jealous of him. They asked him "will you rule and reign over us?"
Joseph was excited about the dream, and wanted to share it with them, however, they were not excited in the least. Then Joseph had another dream in which he shared with his brothers and his father. This time his father became upset as well as his brothers; but his father kept the saying in his heart.
After some time had passed, the brothers were tending the flock, and they saw Joseph from a far off, coming in their direction. That's when they made a plan to kill him. However, one of the brothers by the name of Rueben suggested that they drop him in a pit where no water was, and they agreed. Once they dropped him in the pit; they sat down to eat. A caravan approached, and another brother suggested that they not leave him there to die, but to sell him into slavery. So that's what they did. Then they told their father a lie about Joseph being torn to shreds by a wild animal; by showing him the coat that was drenched in blood.
Reflection:
Joseph was hated by his own flesh and blood brothers. Those that should have loved him, and taken care of him because he was the youngest. He trusted, and loved them; and wanted to share with them his dreams because he was excited. His brothers could care less about his dreams, and wanted to wipe him off the planet of the earth.
Sharing our dreams with those that we love should be something that we can all do. However, not everyone will be excited about how God is speaking with us. Many people, including those that are closest to us, will not want to hear about how God is going to bless us. There will be those that are envious, and jealous of what God has done, and will do in our lives. Nevertheless, no one will be able to stop what He is doing.
Every thing that we experience is designed to drive us toward our purpose in God. Anything He brings into our life, will propel us into our destiny. Those that choose to celebrate us, invite them into our dreams. Those that choose not too, release them into their yesterday; because they cannot go into our future.
Prayer:
Father God, I thank you for giving me dreams and visions about my life as well as wisdom on who to share them with. I thank you for surrounding me with visionaries with the desires of your heart, to fulfill your purpose in their lives; while encouraging others to do the same. Help me not to be prideful, or arrogant about the things that you speak to me in secret; but to be humble-minded, always depending on you. I thank and praise you for daily wisdom, knowledge and understanding in all things. In Jesus name, amen.
Strong's Concordance Definitions:
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
dream: 2472
1) dream
a) dream (ordinary)
b) dream (with prophetic meaning)
and when he told: 5046
1) to be conspicuous, tell, make known
a) (Hiphil) to tell, declare
1) to tell, announce, report
2) to declare, make known, expound
3) to inform of
4) to publish, declare, proclaim
5) to avow, acknowledge, confess
a) messenger (participle)
b) (Hophal) to be told, be announced, be reported
it to his brothers:251
1) brother
a) brother of same parents
b) half-brother (same father)
c) relative, kinship, same tribe
d) each to the other (reciprocal relationship)
e) (fig.) of resemblance
they hated: 8130
1) to hate, be hateful
a) (Qal) to hate
1) of man
2) of God
3) hater, one hating, enemy (participle) (subst)
b) (Niphal) to be hated
c) (Piel) hater (participle)
1) of persons, nations, God, wisdom
him even: 5750
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
more: 3254
1) to add, increase, do again
a) (Qal) to add, increase, do again
b) (Niphal)
1) to join, join oneself to
2) to be joined, be added to
c) (Hiphil)
1) to cause to add, increase
2) to do more, do again
References:
Blue Letter Bible. "Book of Beginnings - Genesis 37 - (NASB - New American Standard Bible)." Blue Letter Bible. 1996-2010. 15 Jan 2010. http://www.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=Gen&c=37&t=NASB
Higgins, S. (2009). The Dreamer Who Never Gave Up. Devotions for Thought. Higgins Publishing. Http://www.devotionsforthought.blogspot.com
Wednesday
Money, Power & Desire
Scriptures: II Samuel 12:1-9
Then the LORD sent Nathan to David. And he came to him and said, "There were two men in one city, the one rich and the other poor. "The rich man had a great many flocks and herds. "But the poor man had nothing except one little ewe lamb Which he bought and nourished; And it grew up together with him and his children. It would eat of his bread and drink of his cup and lie in his bosom, And was like a daughter to him.
"Now a traveler came to the rich man, And he was unwilling to take from his own flock or his own herd, To prepare for the wayfarer who had come to him; Rather he took the poor man's ewe lamb and prepared it for the man who had come to him." Then David's anger burned greatly against the man, and he said to Nathan, "As the LORD lives, surely the man who has done this deserves to die. "He must make restitution for the lamb fourfold, because he did this thing and had no compassion." Nathan then said to David, "You are the man! Thus says the LORD God of Israel, 'It is I who anointed you king over Israel and it is I who delivered you from the hand of Saul. 'I also gave you your master's house and your master's wives into your care, and I gave you the house of Israel and Judah; and if that had been too little, I would have added to you many more things like these! 'Why have you despised the word of the LORD by doing evil in His sight? You have struck down Uriah the Hittite with the sword, have taken his wife to be your wife, and have killed him with the sword of the sons of Ammon.
Background:
The foregoing chapter gave us the account of David’s sin; this gives us the account of his repentance. Though he fell, he was not utterly cast down, but, by the grace of God, recovered himself, and found mercy with God. Here is, I. His conviction, by a message Nathan brought him from God, which was a parable that obliged him to condemn himself (v. 1-6), and the application of the parable, in which Nathan charged him with the sin (v. 7-9) and pronounced sentence upon him, (v. 10–12). II. His repentance and remission, with a proviso (v. 13, 14). III. The sickness and death of the child, and his behaviour while it was sick and when it was dead (v. 15–23), in both which David gave evidence of his repentance. IV. The birth of Solomon, and God’s gracious message concerning him, in which God gave an evidence of his reconciliation to David (v. 24, 25). V. The taking of Rabbah (v. 26–31), which is mentioned as a further instance that God did not deal with David according to his sins (Henry, 1996).
Commentary:
It seems to have been a great while after David had been guilty of adultery with Bath-sheba before he was brought to repentance for it. For, when Nathan was sent to him, the child was born (v. 14), so that it was about nine months that David lay under the guilt of that sin, and, for aught that appears, unrepented of. What shall we think of David’s state all this while? Can we imagine that his heart never smote him for it, or that he never lamented it in secret before God? I would willingly hope that he did, and that Nathan was sent to him, immediately upon the birth of the child, when the thing by that means came to be publicly known and talked of, to draw from him an open confession of the sin, to the glory of God, the admonition of others, and that he might receive, by Nathan, absolution with certain limitations. But, during these nine months, we may well suppose his comforts and the exercises of his graces suspended, and his communion with God interrupted; during all that time, it is certain, he penned no psalms, his harp was out of tune, and his soul like a tree in winter, that has life in the root only. Therefore, after Nathan had been with him, he prays, Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation, and open thou my lips, Ps. 51:12, 15. Let us observe (Henry, 1996).
I. The messenger God sent to him. We were told by the last words of the foregoing chapter that the thing David had done displeased the Lord, upon which, one would think, it should have followed that the Lord sent enemies to invade him, terrors to take hold on him, and the messengers of death to arrest him. No, he sent a prophet to him—Nathan, his faithful friend and confidant, to instruct and counsel him, v. 1. David did not send for Nathan (though he had never had so much occasion as he had now for his confessor), but God sent Nathan to David. Note, Though God may suffer his people to fall into sin, he will not suffer them to lie still in it. He went on frowardly in the way of his heart, and if left to himself, would have wandered endlessly, but (saith God) I have seen his ways, and will heal him, Isa. 57:17, 18 (Henry, 1996).
He sends after us before we seek after him, else we should certainly be lost. Nathan was the prophet by whom God had sent him notice of his kind intentions towards him (ch. 7:4), and now, by the same hand, he sends him this message of wrath. God’s word in the mouth of his ministers must be received, whether it speak terror or comfort. Nathan was obedient to the heavenly vision, and went on God’s errand to David. He did not say, "David has sinned, I will not come near him.’’ No; count him not an enemy, but admonish him as a brother, 2 Th. 3:15. He did not say, "David is a king, I dare not reprove him.’’ No; if God sends him, he sets his face like a flint, Isa. 50:7 (Henry, 1996).
(1.) God, by Nathan, reminds David of the great things he had done and designed for him, anointing him to be king, and preserving him to the kingdom (v. 7), giving him power over the house and household of his predecessor, and of others that had been his masters, Nabal for one. He had given him the house of Israel and Judah. The wealth of the kingdom was at his service and every body was willing to oblige him. Nay, he was ready to bestow any thing upon him to make him easy: I would have given thee such and such things, v. 8. See how liberal God is in his gifts; we are not straitened in him. Where he has given much, yet he gives more. And God’s bounty to us is a great aggravation of our discontent and desire of forbidden fruit. It is ungrateful to covet what God has prohibited, while we have liberty to pray for what God has promised, and that is enough (Henry, 1996).
Reflection:
King David had a desire to possess something that belonged to someone else, and he was willing to do whatever was necessary to possess the lust of his soul; even to the point of murder. He desired Bethsheba, the wife of Urriah. His desire led to the birth of a child from another man's wife. His plan was then turned from pure lust to purposed murder. Even though David could have had anything he asked for within the will of God, he chose to fulfill his own desires; failing to realize that God will not hold any good thing from those that walk uprightly. Therefore, it is futile to step outside of the realm of God to try to fulfill our own desires, as if we could anyway. God knows the secrets of our hearts, and the desires of our souls continually. If God has not brought something to pass in our lives, it is either not time; or it is not his perfect will. Even though something is not God's will for our lives, we can rest assured what God 's will for our lives is, is better than anything that we can concoct. We should pray for the perfect will of God to be accomplished in our lives, and never try to push the envelope of blessings in the direction we want it to open; whether we have the money, or the power of influence to do it or not.
Bosom:
Bible Dictionary
Bosom definition
In the East objects are carried in the bosom which Europeans carry in the pocket. To have in one's bosom indicates kindness, secrecy, or intimacy (Gen. 16:5; 2 Sam. 12:8). Christ is said to have been in "the bosom of the Father," i.e., he had the most perfect knowledge of the Father, had the closest intimacy with him (John 1:18). John (13:23) was "leaning on Jesus' bosom" at the last supper. Our Lord carries his lambs in his bosom, i.e., has a tender, watchful care over them (Isa. 40:11) (Easton, 1897).
References:
bosom. (n.d.). Easton's 1897 Bible Dictionary. Retrieved April 21, 2010, from Dictionary.com website: http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/bosom
Henry, Matthew. "Commentary on 2 Samuel 12." . Blue Letter Bible. 1 Mar 1996. 2010. 21 Apr 2010.
http://www.blueletterbible.org/commentaries/comm_view.cfm? AuthorID=4&contentID=915&commInfo=5&topic=2%20Samuel&
ar=2Sa_12_1
Higgins, S. (2010). Money, Power & Desire. Devotions for Thought. Higgins Publishing. Http://www.devotionsforthought.blogspot.com, Http://www.higginspublishing.com
Then the LORD sent Nathan to David. And he came to him and said, "There were two men in one city, the one rich and the other poor. "The rich man had a great many flocks and herds. "But the poor man had nothing except one little ewe lamb Which he bought and nourished; And it grew up together with him and his children. It would eat of his bread and drink of his cup and lie in his bosom, And was like a daughter to him.
"Now a traveler came to the rich man, And he was unwilling to take from his own flock or his own herd, To prepare for the wayfarer who had come to him; Rather he took the poor man's ewe lamb and prepared it for the man who had come to him." Then David's anger burned greatly against the man, and he said to Nathan, "As the LORD lives, surely the man who has done this deserves to die. "He must make restitution for the lamb fourfold, because he did this thing and had no compassion." Nathan then said to David, "You are the man! Thus says the LORD God of Israel, 'It is I who anointed you king over Israel and it is I who delivered you from the hand of Saul. 'I also gave you your master's house and your master's wives into your care, and I gave you the house of Israel and Judah; and if that had been too little, I would have added to you many more things like these! 'Why have you despised the word of the LORD by doing evil in His sight? You have struck down Uriah the Hittite with the sword, have taken his wife to be your wife, and have killed him with the sword of the sons of Ammon.
Background:
The foregoing chapter gave us the account of David’s sin; this gives us the account of his repentance. Though he fell, he was not utterly cast down, but, by the grace of God, recovered himself, and found mercy with God. Here is, I. His conviction, by a message Nathan brought him from God, which was a parable that obliged him to condemn himself (v. 1-6), and the application of the parable, in which Nathan charged him with the sin (v. 7-9) and pronounced sentence upon him, (v. 10–12). II. His repentance and remission, with a proviso (v. 13, 14). III. The sickness and death of the child, and his behaviour while it was sick and when it was dead (v. 15–23), in both which David gave evidence of his repentance. IV. The birth of Solomon, and God’s gracious message concerning him, in which God gave an evidence of his reconciliation to David (v. 24, 25). V. The taking of Rabbah (v. 26–31), which is mentioned as a further instance that God did not deal with David according to his sins (Henry, 1996).
Commentary:
It seems to have been a great while after David had been guilty of adultery with Bath-sheba before he was brought to repentance for it. For, when Nathan was sent to him, the child was born (v. 14), so that it was about nine months that David lay under the guilt of that sin, and, for aught that appears, unrepented of. What shall we think of David’s state all this while? Can we imagine that his heart never smote him for it, or that he never lamented it in secret before God? I would willingly hope that he did, and that Nathan was sent to him, immediately upon the birth of the child, when the thing by that means came to be publicly known and talked of, to draw from him an open confession of the sin, to the glory of God, the admonition of others, and that he might receive, by Nathan, absolution with certain limitations. But, during these nine months, we may well suppose his comforts and the exercises of his graces suspended, and his communion with God interrupted; during all that time, it is certain, he penned no psalms, his harp was out of tune, and his soul like a tree in winter, that has life in the root only. Therefore, after Nathan had been with him, he prays, Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation, and open thou my lips, Ps. 51:12, 15. Let us observe (Henry, 1996).
I. The messenger God sent to him. We were told by the last words of the foregoing chapter that the thing David had done displeased the Lord, upon which, one would think, it should have followed that the Lord sent enemies to invade him, terrors to take hold on him, and the messengers of death to arrest him. No, he sent a prophet to him—Nathan, his faithful friend and confidant, to instruct and counsel him, v. 1. David did not send for Nathan (though he had never had so much occasion as he had now for his confessor), but God sent Nathan to David. Note, Though God may suffer his people to fall into sin, he will not suffer them to lie still in it. He went on frowardly in the way of his heart, and if left to himself, would have wandered endlessly, but (saith God) I have seen his ways, and will heal him, Isa. 57:17, 18 (Henry, 1996).
He sends after us before we seek after him, else we should certainly be lost. Nathan was the prophet by whom God had sent him notice of his kind intentions towards him (ch. 7:4), and now, by the same hand, he sends him this message of wrath. God’s word in the mouth of his ministers must be received, whether it speak terror or comfort. Nathan was obedient to the heavenly vision, and went on God’s errand to David. He did not say, "David has sinned, I will not come near him.’’ No; count him not an enemy, but admonish him as a brother, 2 Th. 3:15. He did not say, "David is a king, I dare not reprove him.’’ No; if God sends him, he sets his face like a flint, Isa. 50:7 (Henry, 1996).
(1.) God, by Nathan, reminds David of the great things he had done and designed for him, anointing him to be king, and preserving him to the kingdom (v. 7), giving him power over the house and household of his predecessor, and of others that had been his masters, Nabal for one. He had given him the house of Israel and Judah. The wealth of the kingdom was at his service and every body was willing to oblige him. Nay, he was ready to bestow any thing upon him to make him easy: I would have given thee such and such things, v. 8. See how liberal God is in his gifts; we are not straitened in him. Where he has given much, yet he gives more. And God’s bounty to us is a great aggravation of our discontent and desire of forbidden fruit. It is ungrateful to covet what God has prohibited, while we have liberty to pray for what God has promised, and that is enough (Henry, 1996).
Reflection:
King David had a desire to possess something that belonged to someone else, and he was willing to do whatever was necessary to possess the lust of his soul; even to the point of murder. He desired Bethsheba, the wife of Urriah. His desire led to the birth of a child from another man's wife. His plan was then turned from pure lust to purposed murder. Even though David could have had anything he asked for within the will of God, he chose to fulfill his own desires; failing to realize that God will not hold any good thing from those that walk uprightly. Therefore, it is futile to step outside of the realm of God to try to fulfill our own desires, as if we could anyway. God knows the secrets of our hearts, and the desires of our souls continually. If God has not brought something to pass in our lives, it is either not time; or it is not his perfect will. Even though something is not God's will for our lives, we can rest assured what God 's will for our lives is, is better than anything that we can concoct. We should pray for the perfect will of God to be accomplished in our lives, and never try to push the envelope of blessings in the direction we want it to open; whether we have the money, or the power of influence to do it or not.
Bosom:
Bible Dictionary
Bosom definition
In the East objects are carried in the bosom which Europeans carry in the pocket. To have in one's bosom indicates kindness, secrecy, or intimacy (Gen. 16:5; 2 Sam. 12:8). Christ is said to have been in "the bosom of the Father," i.e., he had the most perfect knowledge of the Father, had the closest intimacy with him (John 1:18). John (13:23) was "leaning on Jesus' bosom" at the last supper. Our Lord carries his lambs in his bosom, i.e., has a tender, watchful care over them (Isa. 40:11) (Easton, 1897).
References:
bosom. (n.d.). Easton's 1897 Bible Dictionary. Retrieved April 21, 2010, from Dictionary.com website: http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/bosom
Henry, Matthew. "Commentary on 2 Samuel 12." . Blue Letter Bible. 1 Mar 1996. 2010. 21 Apr 2010.
http://www.blueletterbible.org/commentaries/comm_view.cfm? AuthorID=4&contentID=915&commInfo=5&topic=2%20Samuel&
ar=2Sa_12_1
Higgins, S. (2010). Money, Power & Desire. Devotions for Thought. Higgins Publishing. Http://www.devotionsforthought.blogspot.com, Http://www.higginspublishing.com
Friday
Prayers of Passion
Scripture: James 5:17 & 18 - (Amplified)
Elijah was a human being with a nature such as we have (with feelings, affections, and a consitution like ours), and he prayed earnestly for it not to rain, and no rain fell on the earth for three years and six months (I Kings 17:1). And (then) he prayed again and the heavens supplied rain and the land produced it's crops [as usual] - (I Kings 18:42-45).
Elijah was a passionate prophet who cared sincerely about the will of the Lord. He was so passionate that he prayed that there would be no rain for three years because the new king of Israel (Ahab, son of Omri), did more evil in the sight of the Lord than all the others before him. Elijah was not concerned about how he himself would be taken care of. He went against the grain without fear of the consequences. He did not worry about what he would eat, or what he would drink. His desire was that the presence of the Lord would be the center of worship; and not the false dieties that Ahab was resurrecting.
Elijah prayed that the rain would cease for a span of three years, except at his word. When he prayed this prayer, God heard him, and instructed him on what to do next. He told Elijah where to go, so that he would be protected from the wrath of Ahab. He also told Elijah that he would drink from the brook. God also told Elijah that He had commanded the ravens to feed him at Kerith Ravine; east of the Jordan. Elijah was divinely taken care of for the span of three years and six months, during the time when there was a drought and famine in the land.
This drought continued until there was a shift in the heart of the people to worship God as Lord. (I Kings 18). When there was a shift in the minds of the people, Elijah told the king to go and eat, for he heard the sound of a heavy rain.
Elijah humbled himself, putting his face between his knees, and prayed for rain until the evidence of his prayer was answered. Elijah prayed and instructed his servant to look toward the sea and report back what he saw.
Elijah continued to pray until his servant came back with a good report. On the seventh time his servant testified that there was a cloud as small as a man's hand rising from the sea. Elijah prayed that the rains from the heavens would be released upon the earth as usual to produce it's fruit, and God answered his prayer.
When we see injuustices done that are blatantly against the will of God, we should also be so moved to pray as Elijah did; so that the will of God will be evident among all men and women.
When we ourselves have issues that need to be resolved, we should pray that God would help us be integral in everything that we do. Praying for integrity, and being integral, is not an overnight occurence. We should always continue to pray for change in ourselves, in order to be a witness for others.
Reflection:
Elijah was a perfect example of what we should do as children of God. He knew the will of God, and he had a heart to serve God, as well as the people. Therefore, he prayed for change. He did not complain about what the people were doing. He went straight to the throne of God, and prayed for divine intervention, to change the position of comfortability of the people; to do what they wanted to do.
If your heart strings are being tugged on about an element of change in your life, and in the lives of your family, friends, neighbors, co-workers or others, began praying every day until you see a shift in the natural realm. God will hear, and answer your prayer.
Prayer:
Dear Lord, I thank you for the ability to prayer. I ask that you continually place on my heart the things that you would like me to pray for. I thank you for answering the prayers that you give me the ability to speak. I praise you in advance for the manifestation of your will being done on earth, as it is in heaven, in my life, in the life of my family, friends, neighbors, business associates, and everyone else that you put in my path. In Jesus name, I pray. Amen.
Strong's Concordance Definitions: James 5:17 - 18
Elijah: 2243
Elijah = "my God is Jehovah"
1) a prophet born at Thisbe, the unflinching champion of the theocracy in the reigns of the idolatrous kings Ahab and Ahaziah. He was taken up to heaven without dying, whence the Jews expected he would return just before the advent of the Messiah, whom he would prepare the minds of the Israelites to receive.
Nature: 3663
1) suffering the like with another, of like feelings or affections
Prayed: 4336
1) to offer prayers, to pray
Earnestly: 4335
1) prayer addressed to God
2) a place set apart or suited for the offering of prayer
a) a synagogue
b) a place in the open air where the Jews were wont to pray, outside the cities, where they had no synagogue
1) such places were situated upon the bank of a stream or the shore of a sea, where there was a supply of water for washing the hands before prayer
That it would not rain: 1026
1) to moisten, wet, water
2) to water with rain, to cause to rain, to pour the rain, to send down like rain
On the earth: 1093
1) arable land
2) the ground, the earth as a standing place
3) the main land as opposed to the sea or water
4) the earth as a whole
a) the earth as opposed to the heavens
b) the inhabited earth, the abode of men and animals
5) a country, land enclosed within fixed boundaries, a tract of land, territory, region
Months: 3376
1) a month
2) the time of the new moon, new moon (the first day of each month, when the new moon appeared was a festival among the Hebrews)
James - 5:18
Again: 3825
1) anew, again
a) renewal or repetition of the action
b) again, anew
2) again, i.e. further, moreover
3) in turn, on the other hand
And the sky: 3772
1) the vaulted expanse of the sky with all things visible in it
a) the universe, the world
b) the aerial heavens or sky, the region where the clouds and the tempests gather, and where thunder and lightning are produced
c) the sidereal or starry heavens
2) the region above the sidereal heavens, the seat of order of things eternal and consummately perfect where God dwells and other heavenly beings
Poured: 1325
1) to give
2) to give something to someone
a) of one's own accord to give one something, to his advantage
1) to bestow a gift
b) to grant, give to one asking, let have
c) to supply, furnish, necessary things
d) to give over, deliver
1) to reach out, extend, present
2) of a writing
3) to give over to one's care, intrust, commit
a) something to be administered
b) to give or commit to some one something to be religiously observed
e) to give what is due or obligatory, to pay: wages or reward
f) to furnish, endue
3) to give
a) to cause, profuse, give forth from one's self
1) to give, hand out lots
b) to appoint to an office
c) to cause to come forth, i.e. as the sea, death and Hell are said to give up the dead who have been engulfed or received by them
c) to give one to someone as his own
1) as an object of his saving care
2) to give one to someone, to follow him as a leader and master
3) to give one to someone to care for his interests
4) to give one to someone to whom he already belonged, to return
4) to grant or permit one
a) to commission
Produced: 985
1) to sprout, bud, put forth new leaves
2) to produce
It's fruit: 2590
1) fruit
a) the fruit of the trees, vines, of the fields
b) the fruit of one's loins, i.e. his progeny, his posterity
2) that which originates or comes from something, an effect, result
a) work, act, deed
b) advantage, profit, utility
c) praises, which are presented to God as a thank offering
d) to gather fruit (i.e. a reaped harvest) into life eternal (as into a granary), is used in fig. discourse of those who by their labours have fitted souls to obtain eternal life
References:
Blue Letter Bible. "James's Epistle 5 - (NASB - New American Standard Bible)." Blue Letter Bible. 1996-2009. 15 Dec 2009. < http://www.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=Jam&c=5&t=NASB >
Higgins, S. (2009). Prayers of Passion. Devotions for Thought. Higgins Publishing, http://www.higginspublishing.com, http://www.devotionsforthought.blogspot.com
Elijah was a human being with a nature such as we have (with feelings, affections, and a consitution like ours), and he prayed earnestly for it not to rain, and no rain fell on the earth for three years and six months (I Kings 17:1). And (then) he prayed again and the heavens supplied rain and the land produced it's crops [as usual] - (I Kings 18:42-45).
This drought continued until there was a shift in the heart of the people to worship God as Lord. (I Kings 18). When there was a shift in the minds of the people, Elijah told the king to go and eat, for he heard the sound of a heavy rain.
- Why should injuustices continue without rebuke?
- Why should innocent children be the causualty of man's lack of restraint?
- Why should the poor be the entertainment of those who despise them?
- How can we continue to improve in our walk with the Lord?
Elijah was a perfect example of what we should do as children of God. He knew the will of God, and he had a heart to serve God, as well as the people. Therefore, he prayed for change. He did not complain about what the people were doing. He went straight to the throne of God, and prayed for divine intervention, to change the position of comfortability of the people; to do what they wanted to do.
Prayer:
Dear Lord, I thank you for the ability to prayer. I ask that you continually place on my heart the things that you would like me to pray for. I thank you for answering the prayers that you give me the ability to speak. I praise you in advance for the manifestation of your will being done on earth, as it is in heaven, in my life, in the life of my family, friends, neighbors, business associates, and everyone else that you put in my path. In Jesus name, I pray. Amen.
Elijah: 2243
Elijah = "my God is Jehovah"
1) suffering the like with another, of like feelings or affections
1) to offer prayers, to pray
1) prayer addressed to God
a) a synagogue
b) a place in the open air where the Jews were wont to pray, outside the cities, where they had no synagogue
1) such places were situated upon the bank of a stream or the shore of a sea, where there was a supply of water for washing the hands before prayer
1) to moisten, wet, water
2) to water with rain, to cause to rain, to pour the rain, to send down like rain
1) arable land
3) the main land as opposed to the sea or water
4) the earth as a whole
a) the earth as opposed to the heavens
b) the inhabited earth, the abode of men and animals
Months: 3376
1) a month
2) the time of the new moon, new moon (the first day of each month, when the new moon appeared was a festival among the Hebrews)
James - 5:18
1) anew, again
a) renewal or repetition of the action
b) again, anew
2) again, i.e. further, moreover
3) in turn, on the other hand
1) the vaulted expanse of the sky with all things visible in it
a) the universe, the world
b) the aerial heavens or sky, the region where the clouds and the tempests gather, and where thunder and lightning are produced
c) the sidereal or starry heavens
2) the region above the sidereal heavens, the seat of order of things eternal and consummately perfect where God dwells and other heavenly beings
1) to give
2) to give something to someone
a) of one's own accord to give one something, to his advantage
1) to bestow a gift
b) to grant, give to one asking, let have
c) to supply, furnish, necessary things
d) to give over, deliver
1) to reach out, extend, present
2) of a writing
3) to give over to one's care, intrust, commit
a) something to be administered
b) to give or commit to some one something to be religiously observed
e) to give what is due or obligatory, to pay: wages or reward
f) to furnish, endue
a) to cause, profuse, give forth from one's self
1) to give, hand out lots
b) to appoint to an office
c) to cause to come forth, i.e. as the sea, death and Hell are said to give up the dead who have been engulfed or received by them
c) to give one to someone as his own
1) as an object of his saving care
2) to give one to someone, to follow him as a leader and master
3) to give one to someone to care for his interests
4) to give one to someone to whom he already belonged, to return
4) to grant or permit one
a) to commission
1) to sprout, bud, put forth new leaves
2) to produce
1) fruit
a) the fruit of the trees, vines, of the fields
b) the fruit of one's loins, i.e. his progeny, his posterity
2) that which originates or comes from something, an effect, result
a) work, act, deed
b) advantage, profit, utility
c) praises, which are presented to God as a thank offering
d) to gather fruit (i.e. a reaped harvest) into life eternal (as into a granary), is used in fig. discourse of those who by their labours have fitted souls to obtain eternal life
Blue Letter Bible. "James's Epistle 5 - (NASB - New American Standard Bible)." Blue Letter Bible. 1996-2009. 15 Dec 2009. < http://www.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=Jam&c=5&t=NASB >
Thursday
The Egyptian Husband
Leviticus: 24:10-16
Now the son of an Israelite woman, whose father was an Egyptian, went out among the sons of Israel; and the Israelite woman's son and a man of Israel struggled with each other in the camp. The son of the Israelite woman blasphemed the Name and cursed. So they brought him to Moses. (Now his mother's name was Shelomith, the daughter of Dibri, of the tribe of Dan.) They put him in custody so that the command of the LORD might be made clear to them. Then the LORD spoke to Moses, saying, "Bring the one who has cursed outside the camp, and let all who heard him lay their hands on his head; then let all the congregation stone him. "You shall speak to the sons of Israel, saying, 'If anyone curses his God, then he will bear his sin.
'Moreover, the one who blasphemes the name of the LORD shall surely be put to death; all the congregation shall certainly stone him. The alien as well as the native, when he blasphemes the Name, shall be put to death.
Commentary:
A mother by the name of Shelomith, who was an Israelite that had an Egyptian husband; had a son who was extremely verbal. One day in the Israelite camp, the son and an Israelite got into an altercation. The son begin to blaspheme the name of God, and curse. There were other people that were present, and witnessed the event. The son was brought to Moses, and put into custody; until the will of God was known on how to handle the actions of the son. The answer that came would be an example to those in the camp on respecting God for who He was, which is Holy. The son was then taken out of the camp, and all that witnessed his disrespectful words and attitude, stoned him to death.
Reflection:
What can be learned from this example, is that God is never to be disrespected by those in the camp, or from those that are not in the camp (Leviticus 24:16). God refused to have anyone disrepect His name, or His person. The result of such a state of disgrace was death by stoning. Just imagine how the mother felt when her son was stoned to death because of his words and actions; and how the father must have also felt. Regardless, of their emotional state, God would not be disrespected. The son possibly knew better; but the influence of his earthly father who was an Egyptian, may have had a stronger influence on his behavior. Possibly, he heard his father disrespect God in the house in which he was raised; and he felt as if he could do the same thing; and get away with it. Therefore, when an altercation brought out what had already been deposited in him, he was stoned to death for the condition of his heart.
God is Holy, and He should never be disrepected by those that know Him, or those who do not know him. When God is disrespected, a curse is brought upon the one in whom disrespects Him. God is our Father, and His authority should never be taken lightly, or held in contempt. When we disrespect our earthly parents, we inturn disrespect God, because He is the one that gives them authority over us, when he commanded us to obey our parents in the Lord. The authority of the Egyptian Husband who had a belief system that was contrary to the Israelites, most likely, was the ultimate influence in his household which lead his son into disobedience to God, that lead to death by stoning.
Food for thought:
Prayer:
Father God, thank you for giving me a divine respect for your name and your authority in my life; which tends to a blessed life, verses the curse of death. In Jesus name, I pray. Amen.
Strong's Concordance Definitions: Leviticus 24:16
Blasphemed: 5344
1) to pierce, perforate, bore, appoint
a) (Qal)
1) to pierce, bore
2) to prick off, designate
b) (Niphal) to be pricked off, be designated, be specified
2) (Qal) to curse, blaspheme
of the LORD, and cursed:7043
1) to be slight, be swift, be trifling, be of little account, be light
a) (Qal)
1) to be slight, be abated (of water)
2) to be swift
3) to be trifling, be of little account
b) (Niphal)
1) to be swift, show oneself swift
2) to appear trifling, be too trifling, be insignificant
3) to be lightly esteemed
c) (Piel)
1) to make despicable
2) to curse
d) (Pual) to be cursed
e) (Hiphil)
1) to make light, lighten
2) to treat with contempt, bring contempt or dishonour
f) (Pilpel)
1) to shake
2) to whet
g) (Hithpalpel) to shake oneself, be moved to and fro
References:
Blue Letter Bible. "Law of Moses - Leviticus 24 - (NASB - New American Standard Bible)." Blue Letter Bible. 1996-2010. 18 Feb 2010. http://www.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=Lev&c=24&t=NASB
Higgins, S. (2010). An Egyptian Husband. Devotions For Thought. Higgins Publishing, Http://www.devotionsforthought.blogspot.com, Http://www.higginspublishing.com
Now the son of an Israelite woman, whose father was an Egyptian, went out among the sons of Israel; and the Israelite woman's son and a man of Israel struggled with each other in the camp. The son of the Israelite woman blasphemed the Name and cursed. So they brought him to Moses. (Now his mother's name was Shelomith, the daughter of Dibri, of the tribe of Dan.) They put him in custody so that the command of the LORD might be made clear to them. Then the LORD spoke to Moses, saying, "Bring the one who has cursed outside the camp, and let all who heard him lay their hands on his head; then let all the congregation stone him. "You shall speak to the sons of Israel, saying, 'If anyone curses his God, then he will bear his sin.
'Moreover, the one who blasphemes the name of the LORD shall surely be put to death; all the congregation shall certainly stone him. The alien as well as the native, when he blasphemes the Name, shall be put to death.
Commentary:
A mother by the name of Shelomith, who was an Israelite that had an Egyptian husband; had a son who was extremely verbal. One day in the Israelite camp, the son and an Israelite got into an altercation. The son begin to blaspheme the name of God, and curse. There were other people that were present, and witnessed the event. The son was brought to Moses, and put into custody; until the will of God was known on how to handle the actions of the son. The answer that came would be an example to those in the camp on respecting God for who He was, which is Holy. The son was then taken out of the camp, and all that witnessed his disrespectful words and attitude, stoned him to death.
Reflection:
What can be learned from this example, is that God is never to be disrespected by those in the camp, or from those that are not in the camp (Leviticus 24:16). God refused to have anyone disrepect His name, or His person. The result of such a state of disgrace was death by stoning. Just imagine how the mother felt when her son was stoned to death because of his words and actions; and how the father must have also felt. Regardless, of their emotional state, God would not be disrespected. The son possibly knew better; but the influence of his earthly father who was an Egyptian, may have had a stronger influence on his behavior. Possibly, he heard his father disrespect God in the house in which he was raised; and he felt as if he could do the same thing; and get away with it. Therefore, when an altercation brought out what had already been deposited in him, he was stoned to death for the condition of his heart.
God is Holy, and He should never be disrepected by those that know Him, or those who do not know him. When God is disrespected, a curse is brought upon the one in whom disrespects Him. God is our Father, and His authority should never be taken lightly, or held in contempt. When we disrespect our earthly parents, we inturn disrespect God, because He is the one that gives them authority over us, when he commanded us to obey our parents in the Lord. The authority of the Egyptian Husband who had a belief system that was contrary to the Israelites, most likely, was the ultimate influence in his household which lead his son into disobedience to God, that lead to death by stoning.
Food for thought:
- How do we show our parents respect today?
- What are we allowing to be deposited with us?
Prayer:
Father God, thank you for giving me a divine respect for your name and your authority in my life; which tends to a blessed life, verses the curse of death. In Jesus name, I pray. Amen.
Strong's Concordance Definitions: Leviticus 24:16
Blasphemed: 5344
1) to pierce, perforate, bore, appoint
a) (Qal)
1) to pierce, bore
2) to prick off, designate
b) (Niphal) to be pricked off, be designated, be specified
2) (Qal) to curse, blaspheme
of the LORD, and cursed:7043
1) to be slight, be swift, be trifling, be of little account, be light
a) (Qal)
1) to be slight, be abated (of water)
2) to be swift
3) to be trifling, be of little account
b) (Niphal)
1) to be swift, show oneself swift
2) to appear trifling, be too trifling, be insignificant
3) to be lightly esteemed
c) (Piel)
1) to make despicable
2) to curse
d) (Pual) to be cursed
e) (Hiphil)
1) to make light, lighten
2) to treat with contempt, bring contempt or dishonour
f) (Pilpel)
1) to shake
2) to whet
g) (Hithpalpel) to shake oneself, be moved to and fro
References:
Blue Letter Bible. "Law of Moses - Leviticus 24 - (NASB - New American Standard Bible)." Blue Letter Bible. 1996-2010. 18 Feb 2010. http://www.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=Lev&c=24&t=NASB
Higgins, S. (2010). An Egyptian Husband. Devotions For Thought. Higgins Publishing, Http://www.devotionsforthought.blogspot.com, Http://www.higginspublishing.com
Tuesday
A Chance To Be Saved
Scriptures: Genesis 19:15-17
When morning dawned, the angels urged Lot, saying, "Up, take your wife and your two daughters who are here, or you will be swept away in the punishment of the city." But he hesitated. So the men seized his hand and the hand of his wife and the hands of his two daughters, for the compassion of the LORD {was} upon him; and they brought him out, and put him outside the city. When they had brought them outside, one said, "Escape for your life! Do not look behind you, and do not stay anywhere in the valley; escape to the mountains, or you will be swept away."
Commentary:
Because of the sin of the city of Sodom, the judgment of God was pronounced. However, before the city was destroyed Abraham had prayed to God on behalf of the city that it would not be destroyed. God said that He would spare the city if he found ten righteous living in the city, even though the city was exceeding wicked. However, the outcry of wickedness prevailed, and two angels were sent by God to destroy the city, where Abraham's newphew Lot lived.
When they arrived at Lot's house, they wanted to stay in the square, but Lot urged them to stay with at house; so they did. Before they went to sleep the men from the city, young and old knocked at Lot's door; because they wanted to have sexual relations with the two men. As the pressure escalated, and the men became exceedingly more persistant, the angels of the Lord casts blindness on the men that were at the door; trying to force their way. Those who were struck blind, wearied themselves trying to still find the door.
Then the angels told lot that it was time to gather his family, and leave the city because they were going to destroy it! However, when it was time to go, Lot hesitated because of his heart was moved with the compassion of God for the people. But the wickedness of the people called for destruction, and the angels grabbed Lot's hand, his wife and his daughters, and snatched them out of the city before they destroyed it.
Reflection:
God knows our hearts; and our desire to see people that we care about saved. However, because He knows the heart of humankind; He knows already the decisions of their hearts.When we experience heartache or tauma in our lives, and we cannot see our way out, God will snatch us out of the situation, and remove others around us; so that we will not be swept away because of their disobedience.
Because of His grace, and His mercy for us, He gives everyone a chance to be saved. When we reject what He has said for us to do by living lives that are not pleasing to Him, destruction will ultimately come. When we listen, and do what He instructs us to do; the blessing of the Lord will overtake us.
Strong's Concordance Definitions: Genesis 19:16
But he hesistated: 4102
1) (Hithpalpel) to linger, tarry, wait, delay
So the men: 372
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)
Seized: 2388
1) to strengthen, prevail, harden, be strong, become strong, be courageous, be firm, grow firm, be resolute, be sore
a) (Qal)
1) to be strong, grow strong
a) to prevail, prevail upon
b) to be firm, be caught fast, be secure
c) to press, be urgent
d) to grow stout, grow rigid, grow hard (bad sense)
e) to be severe, be grievous
2) to strengthen
b) (Piel)
1) to make strong
2) to restore to strength, give strength
3) to strengthen, sustain, encourage
4) to make strong, make bold, encourage
5) to make firm
6) to make rigid, make hard
c) (Hiphil)
1) to make strong, strengthen
2) to make firm
3) to display strength
4) to make severe
5) to support
6) to repair
7) to prevail, prevail upon
8) to have or take or keep hold of, retain, hold up, sustain, support
9) to hold, contain
d) (Hithpael)
1) to strengthen oneself
2) to put forth strength, use one's strength
3) to withstand
4) to hold strongly with
hand: 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
for the compassion: 2551
1) mercy, pity, compassion
of 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
was upon him; and they brought: 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
him out, and put: 5117
1) to rest
a) (Qal)
1) to rest, settle down and remain
2) to repose, have rest, be quiet
b) (Hiph)
1) to cause to rest, give rest to, make quiet
2) to cause to rest, cause to alight, set down
3) to lay or set down, deposit, let lie, place
4) to let remain, leave
5) to leave, depart from
6) to abandon
7) to permit
c) (Hoph)
1) to obtain rest, be granted rest
2) to be left, be placed
3) open space (subst)
him outside: 4480
1) from, out of, on account of, off, on the side of, since, above, than, so that not, more than
a) from (expressing separation), off, on the side of
b) out of
1) (with verbs of proceeding, removing, expelling)
2) (of material from which something is made)
3) (of source or origin)
c) out of, some of, from (partitively)
d) from, since, after (of time)
e) than, more than (in comparison)
f) from...even to, both...and, either...or
g) than, more than, too much for (in comparisons)
h) from, on account of, through, because (with infinitive)
the city: 5892
1) excitement, anguish
a) of terror
2) city, town (a place of waking, guarded)
a) city, town
References:
Blue Letter Bible. "Book of Beginnings - Genesis 19 - (NASB - New American Standard Bible)." Blue Letter Bible. 1996-2010. 7 Jan 2010. http://www.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=Gen&c=19&t=NASB
Higgins, S. (2009). A Chance To Be Saved. Devotions for Thought. Higgins Publishing. Http://www.devotionsforthought.blogspot.com
When morning dawned, the angels urged Lot, saying, "Up, take your wife and your two daughters who are here, or you will be swept away in the punishment of the city." But he hesitated. So the men seized his hand and the hand of his wife and the hands of his two daughters, for the compassion of the LORD {was} upon him; and they brought him out, and put him outside the city. When they had brought them outside, one said, "Escape for your life! Do not look behind you, and do not stay anywhere in the valley; escape to the mountains, or you will be swept away."
Commentary:
Because of the sin of the city of Sodom, the judgment of God was pronounced. However, before the city was destroyed Abraham had prayed to God on behalf of the city that it would not be destroyed. God said that He would spare the city if he found ten righteous living in the city, even though the city was exceeding wicked. However, the outcry of wickedness prevailed, and two angels were sent by God to destroy the city, where Abraham's newphew Lot lived.
When they arrived at Lot's house, they wanted to stay in the square, but Lot urged them to stay with at house; so they did. Before they went to sleep the men from the city, young and old knocked at Lot's door; because they wanted to have sexual relations with the two men. As the pressure escalated, and the men became exceedingly more persistant, the angels of the Lord casts blindness on the men that were at the door; trying to force their way. Those who were struck blind, wearied themselves trying to still find the door.
Then the angels told lot that it was time to gather his family, and leave the city because they were going to destroy it! However, when it was time to go, Lot hesitated because of his heart was moved with the compassion of God for the people. But the wickedness of the people called for destruction, and the angels grabbed Lot's hand, his wife and his daughters, and snatched them out of the city before they destroyed it.
Reflection:
God knows our hearts; and our desire to see people that we care about saved. However, because He knows the heart of humankind; He knows already the decisions of their hearts.When we experience heartache or tauma in our lives, and we cannot see our way out, God will snatch us out of the situation, and remove others around us; so that we will not be swept away because of their disobedience.
Because of His grace, and His mercy for us, He gives everyone a chance to be saved. When we reject what He has said for us to do by living lives that are not pleasing to Him, destruction will ultimately come. When we listen, and do what He instructs us to do; the blessing of the Lord will overtake us.
Strong's Concordance Definitions: Genesis 19:16
But he hesistated: 4102
1) (Hithpalpel) to linger, tarry, wait, delay
So the men: 372
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)
Seized: 2388
1) to strengthen, prevail, harden, be strong, become strong, be courageous, be firm, grow firm, be resolute, be sore
a) (Qal)
1) to be strong, grow strong
a) to prevail, prevail upon
b) to be firm, be caught fast, be secure
c) to press, be urgent
d) to grow stout, grow rigid, grow hard (bad sense)
e) to be severe, be grievous
2) to strengthen
b) (Piel)
1) to make strong
2) to restore to strength, give strength
3) to strengthen, sustain, encourage
4) to make strong, make bold, encourage
5) to make firm
6) to make rigid, make hard
c) (Hiphil)
1) to make strong, strengthen
2) to make firm
3) to display strength
4) to make severe
5) to support
6) to repair
7) to prevail, prevail upon
8) to have or take or keep hold of, retain, hold up, sustain, support
9) to hold, contain
d) (Hithpael)
1) to strengthen oneself
2) to put forth strength, use one's strength
3) to withstand
4) to hold strongly with
hand: 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
for the compassion: 2551
1) mercy, pity, compassion
of 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
was upon him; and they brought: 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
him out, and put: 5117
1) to rest
a) (Qal)
1) to rest, settle down and remain
2) to repose, have rest, be quiet
b) (Hiph)
1) to cause to rest, give rest to, make quiet
2) to cause to rest, cause to alight, set down
3) to lay or set down, deposit, let lie, place
4) to let remain, leave
5) to leave, depart from
6) to abandon
7) to permit
c) (Hoph)
1) to obtain rest, be granted rest
2) to be left, be placed
3) open space (subst)
him outside: 4480
1) from, out of, on account of, off, on the side of, since, above, than, so that not, more than
a) from (expressing separation), off, on the side of
b) out of
1) (with verbs of proceeding, removing, expelling)
2) (of material from which something is made)
3) (of source or origin)
c) out of, some of, from (partitively)
d) from, since, after (of time)
e) than, more than (in comparison)
f) from...even to, both...and, either...or
g) than, more than, too much for (in comparisons)
h) from, on account of, through, because (with infinitive)
the city: 5892
1) excitement, anguish
a) of terror
2) city, town (a place of waking, guarded)
a) city, town
References:
Blue Letter Bible. "Book of Beginnings - Genesis 19 - (NASB - New American Standard Bible)." Blue Letter Bible. 1996-2010. 7 Jan 2010. http://www.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=Gen&c=19&t=NASB
Higgins, S. (2009). A Chance To Be Saved. Devotions for Thought. Higgins Publishing. Http://www.devotionsforthought.blogspot.com
Sunday
The Planter, The Gardner and The Root
Scripture(s): Mark 4:26-29
And He was saying, "The kingdom of God is like a man who casts seed upon the soil; and he goes to bed at night and gets up by day, and the seed sprouts and grows—how, he himself does not know. "The soil produces crops by itself; first the blade, then the head, then the mature grain in the head. "But when the crop permits, he immediately puts in the sickle, because the harvest has come."
Commentary:
III. The good seed of the gospel sown in the world, and sown in the heart, doth by degrees produce wonderful effects, but without noise (v. 26, etc.); So is the kingdom of God; so is the gospel, when it is sown, and received, as seed in good ground.
1. It will come up; though it seem lost and buried under the clods, it will find or make its way through them. The seed cast into the ground will spring. Let but the word of Christ have the place it ought to have in a soul, and it will show itself, as the wisdom from above doth in a good conversation. After a field is sown with corn, how soon is the surface of it altered! How gay and pleasant doth it look, when it is covered with green!
2. The husbandman cannot describe how it comes up; it is one of the mysteries of nature; It springs and grows up, he knows not how, v. 27. He sees it has grown, but he cannot tell in what manner it grew, or what was the cause and method of its growth. Thus we know not how the Spirit by the word makes a change in the heart, any more than we can account for the blowing of the wind, which we hear the sound of, but cannot tell whence it comes, or whither it goes. Without controversy, great is the mystery of godliness; how God manifested in the flesh came to be believed on in the world, 1 Tim. 3:16.
3. The husbandman, when he hath sown the seed, doth nothing toward the springing of it up; He sleeps, and rises, night and day; goes to sleep at night, gets up in the morning, and perhaps never so much as thinks of the corn he hath sown, or ever looks upon it, but follows his pleasures or other business, and yet the earth brings forth fruit of itself, according to the ordinary course of nature, and by the concurring power of the God of nature. Thus the word of grace, when it is received in faith, is in the heart a work of grace, and the preachers contribute nothing to it. The Spirit of God is carrying it on when they sleep, and can do no business (Job 33:15, 16), or when they rise to go about other business. The prophets do not live for ever; but the word which they preached, is doing its work, when they are in their graves, Zec. 1:5, 6. The dew by which the seed is brought up tarrieth not for man, nor waiteth for the sons of men, Mic. 5:7.
Reflection:
The body of Christ has a responsibility to plant the seed of the word of God in the lives of people. Once the word of God is sown in the hearts of individuals that have heard the word of God, the word begins to work on the inside of a person, and the person becomes more mature in the things of God. As the scripture says, one plants, another waters, and God gives the increase. Therefore, the growth of the body of Christ is caused by God himself, not man. The ground yields fruit of itself, because the seed of the life of Christ was planted in the belly of the earth. The church does not grow based on man's efforts, it grows based on the seed of Christ. We are instruments that God uses to plant the seed of His word. We cannot take credit for it's growth. Nor should we spend countless hours, and restless nights stressing about how many members are in our churches. We should just do our part as He instructs us, and He will do the rest.
Prayer:
Father God, I thank you for the opportunity to plant the seed of your word, where you say to plant it. I thank you for blessing me with your word in my heart, so that not only I can become mature in the things that you desire, but so that others can also become mature; towards building your kingdom.
Strong's Concordance Definitions:
Kingdom: 932
1) royal power, kingship, dominion, rule
a) not to be confused with an actual kingdom but rather the right or authority to rule over a kingdom
b) of the royal power of Jesus as the triumphant Messiah
c) of the royal power and dignity conferred on Christians in the Messiah's kingdom
2) a kingdom, the territory subject to the rule of a king
3) used in the N.T. to refer to the reign of the Messiah
of 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
who casts: 906
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
seed: 4703
1) a sowing
2) seed (used in sowing)
the soil: 1093
1) arable land
2) the ground, the earth as a standing place
3) the main land as opposed to the sea or water
4) the earth as a whole
a) the earth as opposed to the heavens
b) the inhabited earth, the abode of men and animals
5) a country, land enclosed within fixed boundaries, a tract of land, territory, region
and he goes to bed: 2518
1) to fall asleep, drop off to sleep
2) to sleep
a) to sleep normally
b) euphemistically, to be dead
c) metaph.
1) to yield to sloth and sin
2) to be indifferent to one's salvation
at night: 3571
1) night
2) metaph. the time when work ceases
a) the time of death
b) the time for deeds of sin and shame
c) the time of moral stupidity and darkness
d) the time when the weary and also the drunken give themselves up to slumber
and gets: 1453
1) to arouse, cause to rise
a) to arouse from sleep, to awake
b) to arouse from the sleep of death, to recall the dead to life
c) to cause to rise from a seat or bed etc.
d) to raise up, produce, cause to appear
1) to cause to appear, bring before the public
2) to raise up, stir up, against one
3) to raise up i.e. cause to be born
4) of buildings, to raise up, construct, erect
up by day: 2250
1) the day, used of the natural day, or the interval between sunrise and sunset, as distinguished from and contrasted with the night
a) in the daytime
b) metaph., "the day" is regarded as the time for abstaining from indulgence, vice, crime, because acts of the sort are perpetrated at night and in darkness
2) of the civil day, or the space of twenty four hours (thus including the night)
a) Eastern usage of this term differs from our western usage. Any part of a day is counted as a whole day, hence the expression "three days and three nights" does not mean literally three whole days, but at least one whole day plus part of two other days.
3) of the last day of this present age, the day Christ will return from heaven, raise the dead, hold the final judgment, and perfect his kingdom
4) used of time in general, i.e. the days of his life.
sprouts: 985
1) to sprout, bud, put forth new leaves
2) to produce
and grows: 3373
1) to make long, to lengthen
2) in the Bible twice of plants, to cause to grow, increase
how . ..he himself does not know: 846
1) himself, herself, themselves, itself
2) he, she, it
3) the same
produces 2592
1) to bear fruit
2) to bear, bring forth, deeds
3) to bear fruit of one's self
by itself: 844
1) moved by one's own impulse, or acting without the instigation or intervention of another
2) often used of the earth producing plants of itself, and of the plants themselves and the fruits growing without culture
first: 4413
1) first in time or place
a) in any succession of things or persons
2) first in rank
a) influence, honour
b) chief
c) principal
3) first, at the first
the blade: 5528
1) first in time or place
a) in any succession of things or persons
2) first in rank
a) influence, honour
b) chief
c) principal
3) first, at the first
the head: 4719
1) an ear of corn or of growing grain
the mature: 4134
1) full, i.e. filled up (as opposed to empty)
a) of hollow vessels
b) of a surface, covered in every part
c) of the soul, thoroughly permeated with
2) full, i.e. complete
a) lacking nothing, perfect
grain: 4621
1) wheat, grain
in the head: 4719
1) an ear of corn or of growing grain
the crop: 2590
1) fruit
a) the fruit of the trees, vines, of the fields
b) the fruit of one's loins, i.e. his progeny, his posterity
2) that which originates or comes from something, an effect, result
a) work, act, deed
b) advantage, profit, utility
c) praises, which are presented to God as a thank offering
d) to gather fruit (i.e. a reaped harvest) into life eternal (as into a granary), is used in fig. discourse of those who by their labours have fitted souls to obtain eternal life
permits: 3860
1) to give into the hands (of another)
2) to give over into (one's) power or use
a) to deliver to one something to keep, use, take care of, manage
b) to deliver up one to custody, to be judged, condemned, punished, scourged, tormented, put to death
c) to deliver up treacherously
1) by betrayal to cause one to be taken
2) to deliver one to be taught, moulded
3) to commit, to commend
4) to deliver verbally
a) commands, rites
b) to deliver by narrating, to report
5) to permit allow
a) when the fruit will allow that is when its ripeness permits
b) gives itself up, presents itself
he immediately: 2117
1) straight, level
2) straight forward, upright, true, sincere
3) straightway, immediately, forthwith
puts: 649
1) to order (one) to go to a place appointed
2) to send away, dismiss
a) to allow one to depart, that he may be in a state of liberty
b) to order one to depart, send off
c) to drive away
in the sickle: 1407
1) a sickle, a pruning-hook, a hooked vine knife, such as reapers and vinedressers use
the harvest: 2326
1) harvest, the act of reaping
a) fig. of the gathering of men into the kingdom of God
b) referring to time of reaping, the final judgment, when the righteous are gathered into the kingdom of God and the wicked are cast into hell for ever
has come: 3936
1) to place beside or near
a) to set at hand
1) to present
2) to proffer
3) to provide
4) to place a person or thing at one's disposal
5) to present a person for another to see and question
6) to present or show
7) to bring to, bring near
8) metaph. i.e to bring into one's fellowship or intimacy
b) to present (show) by argument, to prove
2) to stand beside, stand by or near, to be at hand, be present
a) to stand by
1) to stand beside one, a bystander
b) to appear
c) to be at hand, stand ready
d) to stand by to help, to succour
e) to be present
1) to have come
2) of time
References:
Blue Letter Bible. "Gospel of Mark 4 - (NASB - New American Standard Bible)." Blue Letter Bible. 1996-2010. 23 Feb 2010. http://www.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=Mar&c=4&t=NASB
Henry, Matthew. "Commentary on Mark 4." . Blue Letter Bible. 1 Mar 1996. 2010. 23 Feb 2010. http:// www.blueletterbible.org/commentaries/comm_view.cfm? AuthorID=4&contentID=1628&commInfo=5&topic=Mark&ar=Mar_4_26
Higgins, S. (2010). The Planter, The Gardner and The Root. Devotions For Thought. Higgins Publishing. http://www.devotionsforthought.blogspot, http://www.higginspublishing.com
And He was saying, "The kingdom of God is like a man who casts seed upon the soil; and he goes to bed at night and gets up by day, and the seed sprouts and grows—how, he himself does not know. "The soil produces crops by itself; first the blade, then the head, then the mature grain in the head. "But when the crop permits, he immediately puts in the sickle, because the harvest has come."
Commentary:
III. The good seed of the gospel sown in the world, and sown in the heart, doth by degrees produce wonderful effects, but without noise (v. 26, etc.); So is the kingdom of God; so is the gospel, when it is sown, and received, as seed in good ground.
1. It will come up; though it seem lost and buried under the clods, it will find or make its way through them. The seed cast into the ground will spring. Let but the word of Christ have the place it ought to have in a soul, and it will show itself, as the wisdom from above doth in a good conversation. After a field is sown with corn, how soon is the surface of it altered! How gay and pleasant doth it look, when it is covered with green!
2. The husbandman cannot describe how it comes up; it is one of the mysteries of nature; It springs and grows up, he knows not how, v. 27. He sees it has grown, but he cannot tell in what manner it grew, or what was the cause and method of its growth. Thus we know not how the Spirit by the word makes a change in the heart, any more than we can account for the blowing of the wind, which we hear the sound of, but cannot tell whence it comes, or whither it goes. Without controversy, great is the mystery of godliness; how God manifested in the flesh came to be believed on in the world, 1 Tim. 3:16.
3. The husbandman, when he hath sown the seed, doth nothing toward the springing of it up; He sleeps, and rises, night and day; goes to sleep at night, gets up in the morning, and perhaps never so much as thinks of the corn he hath sown, or ever looks upon it, but follows his pleasures or other business, and yet the earth brings forth fruit of itself, according to the ordinary course of nature, and by the concurring power of the God of nature. Thus the word of grace, when it is received in faith, is in the heart a work of grace, and the preachers contribute nothing to it. The Spirit of God is carrying it on when they sleep, and can do no business (Job 33:15, 16), or when they rise to go about other business. The prophets do not live for ever; but the word which they preached, is doing its work, when they are in their graves, Zec. 1:5, 6. The dew by which the seed is brought up tarrieth not for man, nor waiteth for the sons of men, Mic. 5:7.
Reflection:
The body of Christ has a responsibility to plant the seed of the word of God in the lives of people. Once the word of God is sown in the hearts of individuals that have heard the word of God, the word begins to work on the inside of a person, and the person becomes more mature in the things of God. As the scripture says, one plants, another waters, and God gives the increase. Therefore, the growth of the body of Christ is caused by God himself, not man. The ground yields fruit of itself, because the seed of the life of Christ was planted in the belly of the earth. The church does not grow based on man's efforts, it grows based on the seed of Christ. We are instruments that God uses to plant the seed of His word. We cannot take credit for it's growth. Nor should we spend countless hours, and restless nights stressing about how many members are in our churches. We should just do our part as He instructs us, and He will do the rest.
Prayer:
Father God, I thank you for the opportunity to plant the seed of your word, where you say to plant it. I thank you for blessing me with your word in my heart, so that not only I can become mature in the things that you desire, but so that others can also become mature; towards building your kingdom.
Strong's Concordance Definitions:
Kingdom: 932
1) royal power, kingship, dominion, rule
a) not to be confused with an actual kingdom but rather the right or authority to rule over a kingdom
b) of the royal power of Jesus as the triumphant Messiah
c) of the royal power and dignity conferred on Christians in the Messiah's kingdom
2) a kingdom, the territory subject to the rule of a king
3) used in the N.T. to refer to the reign of the Messiah
of 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
who casts: 906
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
seed: 4703
1) a sowing
2) seed (used in sowing)
the soil: 1093
1) arable land
2) the ground, the earth as a standing place
3) the main land as opposed to the sea or water
4) the earth as a whole
a) the earth as opposed to the heavens
b) the inhabited earth, the abode of men and animals
5) a country, land enclosed within fixed boundaries, a tract of land, territory, region
and he goes to bed: 2518
1) to fall asleep, drop off to sleep
2) to sleep
a) to sleep normally
b) euphemistically, to be dead
c) metaph.
1) to yield to sloth and sin
2) to be indifferent to one's salvation
at night: 3571
1) night
2) metaph. the time when work ceases
a) the time of death
b) the time for deeds of sin and shame
c) the time of moral stupidity and darkness
d) the time when the weary and also the drunken give themselves up to slumber
and gets: 1453
1) to arouse, cause to rise
a) to arouse from sleep, to awake
b) to arouse from the sleep of death, to recall the dead to life
c) to cause to rise from a seat or bed etc.
d) to raise up, produce, cause to appear
1) to cause to appear, bring before the public
2) to raise up, stir up, against one
3) to raise up i.e. cause to be born
4) of buildings, to raise up, construct, erect
up by day: 2250
1) the day, used of the natural day, or the interval between sunrise and sunset, as distinguished from and contrasted with the night
a) in the daytime
b) metaph., "the day" is regarded as the time for abstaining from indulgence, vice, crime, because acts of the sort are perpetrated at night and in darkness
2) of the civil day, or the space of twenty four hours (thus including the night)
a) Eastern usage of this term differs from our western usage. Any part of a day is counted as a whole day, hence the expression "three days and three nights" does not mean literally three whole days, but at least one whole day plus part of two other days.
3) of the last day of this present age, the day Christ will return from heaven, raise the dead, hold the final judgment, and perfect his kingdom
4) used of time in general, i.e. the days of his life.
sprouts: 985
1) to sprout, bud, put forth new leaves
2) to produce
and grows: 3373
1) to make long, to lengthen
2) in the Bible twice of plants, to cause to grow, increase
how . ..he himself does not know: 846
1) himself, herself, themselves, itself
2) he, she, it
3) the same
produces 2592
1) to bear fruit
2) to bear, bring forth, deeds
3) to bear fruit of one's self
by itself: 844
1) moved by one's own impulse, or acting without the instigation or intervention of another
2) often used of the earth producing plants of itself, and of the plants themselves and the fruits growing without culture
first: 4413
1) first in time or place
a) in any succession of things or persons
2) first in rank
a) influence, honour
b) chief
c) principal
3) first, at the first
the blade: 5528
1) first in time or place
a) in any succession of things or persons
2) first in rank
a) influence, honour
b) chief
c) principal
3) first, at the first
the head: 4719
1) an ear of corn or of growing grain
the mature: 4134
1) full, i.e. filled up (as opposed to empty)
a) of hollow vessels
b) of a surface, covered in every part
c) of the soul, thoroughly permeated with
2) full, i.e. complete
a) lacking nothing, perfect
grain: 4621
1) wheat, grain
in the head: 4719
1) an ear of corn or of growing grain
the crop: 2590
1) fruit
a) the fruit of the trees, vines, of the fields
b) the fruit of one's loins, i.e. his progeny, his posterity
2) that which originates or comes from something, an effect, result
a) work, act, deed
b) advantage, profit, utility
c) praises, which are presented to God as a thank offering
d) to gather fruit (i.e. a reaped harvest) into life eternal (as into a granary), is used in fig. discourse of those who by their labours have fitted souls to obtain eternal life
permits: 3860
1) to give into the hands (of another)
2) to give over into (one's) power or use
a) to deliver to one something to keep, use, take care of, manage
b) to deliver up one to custody, to be judged, condemned, punished, scourged, tormented, put to death
c) to deliver up treacherously
1) by betrayal to cause one to be taken
2) to deliver one to be taught, moulded
3) to commit, to commend
4) to deliver verbally
a) commands, rites
b) to deliver by narrating, to report
5) to permit allow
a) when the fruit will allow that is when its ripeness permits
b) gives itself up, presents itself
he immediately: 2117
1) straight, level
2) straight forward, upright, true, sincere
3) straightway, immediately, forthwith
puts: 649
1) to order (one) to go to a place appointed
2) to send away, dismiss
a) to allow one to depart, that he may be in a state of liberty
b) to order one to depart, send off
c) to drive away
in the sickle: 1407
1) a sickle, a pruning-hook, a hooked vine knife, such as reapers and vinedressers use
the harvest: 2326
1) harvest, the act of reaping
a) fig. of the gathering of men into the kingdom of God
b) referring to time of reaping, the final judgment, when the righteous are gathered into the kingdom of God and the wicked are cast into hell for ever
has come: 3936
1) to place beside or near
a) to set at hand
1) to present
2) to proffer
3) to provide
4) to place a person or thing at one's disposal
5) to present a person for another to see and question
6) to present or show
7) to bring to, bring near
8) metaph. i.e to bring into one's fellowship or intimacy
b) to present (show) by argument, to prove
2) to stand beside, stand by or near, to be at hand, be present
a) to stand by
1) to stand beside one, a bystander
b) to appear
c) to be at hand, stand ready
d) to stand by to help, to succour
e) to be present
1) to have come
2) of time
References:
Blue Letter Bible. "Gospel of Mark 4 - (NASB - New American Standard Bible)." Blue Letter Bible. 1996-2010. 23 Feb 2010. http://www.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=Mar&c=4&t=NASB
Henry, Matthew. "Commentary on Mark 4." . Blue Letter Bible. 1 Mar 1996. 2010. 23 Feb 2010. http:// www.blueletterbible.org/commentaries/comm_view.cfm? AuthorID=4&contentID=1628&commInfo=5&topic=Mark&ar=Mar_4_26
Higgins, S. (2010). The Planter, The Gardner and The Root. Devotions For Thought. Higgins Publishing. http://www.devotionsforthought.blogspot, http://www.higginspublishing.com
Friday
He Is Faithful
Scripture (s): I Samuel 12:21 & 22
"You must not turn aside, for then you would go after futile things which can not profit or deliver, because they are futile. For the LORD will not abandon His people on account of His great name, because the LORD has been pleased to make you a people for Himself.
Background:
We left the general assembly of the states together, in the close of the foregoing chapter; in this chapter we have Samuel’s speech to them, when he resigned the government into the hands of Saul, in which, I. He clears himself from all suspicion or imputation of mismanagement, while the administration was in his hands (v. 1-5). II. He reminds them of the great things God had done for them and for their fathers (v. 6–13). III. He sets before them good and evil, the blessing and the curse (v. 14, 15). IV. He awakens them to regard what he said to them, by calling to God for thunder (v. 16–19). V. He encourages them with hopes that all should be well (v. 20–25). This is his farewell sermon to that august assembly and Saul’s coronation sermon (Henry, 1996).
Commentary:
II. He aims to confirm the people in their religion, and engage them for ever to cleave unto the Lord. The design of his discourse is much the same with Joshua’s, ch. 23 and 24.
1. He would not that the terrors of the Lord should frighten them from him, for they were intended to frighten them to him (v. 20): "Fear not; though you have done all this wickedness, and though God is angry with you for it, yet do not therefore abandon his service, nor turn from following him.’’ Fear not, that is, "despair not, fear not with amazement, the weather will clear up after the storm. Fear not; for, though God will frown upon his people, yet he will not forsake them (v. 22) for his great name’s sake; do not you forsake him then.’’ Every transgression in the covenant, though it displease the Lord, yet does not throw us out of covenant, and therefore God’s just rebukes must not drive us from our hope in his mercy. The fixedness of God’s choice is owing to the freeness of it; we may therefore hope he will not forsake his people, because it has pleased him to make them his people. Had he chosen them for their good merits, we might fear he would cast them off for their bad merits; but, choosing them for his name’s sake, for his name’s sake he will not leave them (Henry, 1996).
2. He cautions them against idolatry: "Turn not aside from God and the worship of him’’ (v. 20, and again v. 21); "for if you turn aside from God, whatever you turn aside to, you will find it is a vain thing, that can never answer your expectations, but will certainly deceive you if you trust to it; it is a broken reed, a broken cistern.’’ Idols could not profit those that sought to them in their wants, nor deliver those that sought to them in their straits, for they were vain, and not what they pretended to be. An idol is nothing in the world, 1 Co. 8:4 (Henry, 1996).
Reflections:
The people of Israel anxiously desired a king; and God gave them what they wanted, with a warning. He gave them a king to rule over them as they desired; but they were required to obey the Lord, as well as the newly appointed king. If they fell into disobedience, the hand of God would come upon them. Even though the people sinned against the Lord by rejecting Him as King; God did not, and would not, forsake them because he was pleased to make them a people for Himself. God was, and will always be faithful for his namesake. However, we should never take the faithfulness of God for granted. We should continually thank God for his faithfulness to us, and tenaciously strive to be faithful to him.
Strong's Concordance Definition:
I Samuel 12: 21 - Futile: 8414
1) formlessness, confusion, unreality, emptiness
a) formlessness (of primeval earth)
1) nothingness, empty space
b) that which is empty or unreal (of idols) (fig)
c) wasteland, wilderness (of solitary places)
d) place of chaos
e) vanity
I Samuel 12:22 - Abandon: 5203
1) to leave, permit, forsake, cast off or away, reject, suffer, join, spread out or abroad, be loosed, cease, abandon, quit, hang loose, cast down, make a raid, lie fallow, let fall, forgo, draw
a) (Qal)
1) to leave, let alone, lie fallow, entrust to
2) to forsake, abandon
3) to permit
b) (Niphal)
1) to be forsaken
2) to be loosened, be loose
3) to be let go, spread abroad
c) (Pual) to be abandoned, be deserted
References:
Blue Letter Bible. "Book of 1 Samuel 12 - (NASB - New American Standard Bible)." Blue Letter Bible. 1996-2010. 9 Apr 2010. http://www.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=1Sa&c=12&t=NASB
Henry, Matthew. "Commentary on 1 Samuel 12." . Blue Letter Bible. 1 Mar 1996. 2010. 9 Apr 2010.
http:// www.blueletterbible.org/commentaries/comm_view.cfm?
AuthorID=4&contentID=883&commInfo=5&topic=1%20Samuel&
ar=1Sa_12_21
Higgins, S. (2010). He Is Faithful. Devotions for Thought. Higgins Publishing. Http://www.devotionsforthought.blogspot.com, http://www.higginspublishing.com
"You must not turn aside, for then you would go after futile things which can not profit or deliver, because they are futile. For the LORD will not abandon His people on account of His great name, because the LORD has been pleased to make you a people for Himself.
Background:
We left the general assembly of the states together, in the close of the foregoing chapter; in this chapter we have Samuel’s speech to them, when he resigned the government into the hands of Saul, in which, I. He clears himself from all suspicion or imputation of mismanagement, while the administration was in his hands (v. 1-5). II. He reminds them of the great things God had done for them and for their fathers (v. 6–13). III. He sets before them good and evil, the blessing and the curse (v. 14, 15). IV. He awakens them to regard what he said to them, by calling to God for thunder (v. 16–19). V. He encourages them with hopes that all should be well (v. 20–25). This is his farewell sermon to that august assembly and Saul’s coronation sermon (Henry, 1996).
Commentary:
II. He aims to confirm the people in their religion, and engage them for ever to cleave unto the Lord. The design of his discourse is much the same with Joshua’s, ch. 23 and 24.
1. He would not that the terrors of the Lord should frighten them from him, for they were intended to frighten them to him (v. 20): "Fear not; though you have done all this wickedness, and though God is angry with you for it, yet do not therefore abandon his service, nor turn from following him.’’ Fear not, that is, "despair not, fear not with amazement, the weather will clear up after the storm. Fear not; for, though God will frown upon his people, yet he will not forsake them (v. 22) for his great name’s sake; do not you forsake him then.’’ Every transgression in the covenant, though it displease the Lord, yet does not throw us out of covenant, and therefore God’s just rebukes must not drive us from our hope in his mercy. The fixedness of God’s choice is owing to the freeness of it; we may therefore hope he will not forsake his people, because it has pleased him to make them his people. Had he chosen them for their good merits, we might fear he would cast them off for their bad merits; but, choosing them for his name’s sake, for his name’s sake he will not leave them (Henry, 1996).
2. He cautions them against idolatry: "Turn not aside from God and the worship of him’’ (v. 20, and again v. 21); "for if you turn aside from God, whatever you turn aside to, you will find it is a vain thing, that can never answer your expectations, but will certainly deceive you if you trust to it; it is a broken reed, a broken cistern.’’ Idols could not profit those that sought to them in their wants, nor deliver those that sought to them in their straits, for they were vain, and not what they pretended to be. An idol is nothing in the world, 1 Co. 8:4 (Henry, 1996).
Reflections:
The people of Israel anxiously desired a king; and God gave them what they wanted, with a warning. He gave them a king to rule over them as they desired; but they were required to obey the Lord, as well as the newly appointed king. If they fell into disobedience, the hand of God would come upon them. Even though the people sinned against the Lord by rejecting Him as King; God did not, and would not, forsake them because he was pleased to make them a people for Himself. God was, and will always be faithful for his namesake. However, we should never take the faithfulness of God for granted. We should continually thank God for his faithfulness to us, and tenaciously strive to be faithful to him.
Strong's Concordance Definition:
I Samuel 12: 21 - Futile: 8414
1) formlessness, confusion, unreality, emptiness
a) formlessness (of primeval earth)
1) nothingness, empty space
b) that which is empty or unreal (of idols) (fig)
c) wasteland, wilderness (of solitary places)
d) place of chaos
e) vanity
I Samuel 12:22 - Abandon: 5203
1) to leave, permit, forsake, cast off or away, reject, suffer, join, spread out or abroad, be loosed, cease, abandon, quit, hang loose, cast down, make a raid, lie fallow, let fall, forgo, draw
a) (Qal)
1) to leave, let alone, lie fallow, entrust to
2) to forsake, abandon
3) to permit
b) (Niphal)
1) to be forsaken
2) to be loosened, be loose
3) to be let go, spread abroad
c) (Pual) to be abandoned, be deserted
References:
Blue Letter Bible. "Book of 1 Samuel 12 - (NASB - New American Standard Bible)." Blue Letter Bible. 1996-2010. 9 Apr 2010. http://www.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=1Sa&c=12&t=NASB
Henry, Matthew. "Commentary on 1 Samuel 12." . Blue Letter Bible. 1 Mar 1996. 2010. 9 Apr 2010.
http:// www.blueletterbible.org/commentaries/comm_view.cfm?
AuthorID=4&contentID=883&commInfo=5&topic=1%20Samuel&
ar=1Sa_12_21
Higgins, S. (2010). He Is Faithful. Devotions for Thought. Higgins Publishing. Http://www.devotionsforthought.blogspot.com, http://www.higginspublishing.com
Wednesday
Moving Ahead of the Head
Scripture(s): I Samuel 8:1-8
And it came about when Samuel was old that he appointed his sons judges over Israel. Now the name of his firstborn was Joel, and the name of his second, Abijah; they were judging in Beersheba. His sons, however, did not walk in his ways, but turned aside after dishonest gain and took bribes and perverted justice. Then all the elders of Israel gathered together and came to Samuel at Ramah; and they said to him, "Behold, you have grown old, and your sons do not walk in your ways. Now appoint a king for us to judge us like all the nations." But the thing was displeasing in the sight of Samuel when they said, "Give us a king to judge us." And Samuel prayed to the LORD. The LORD said to Samuel, "Listen to the voice of the people in regard to all that they say to you, for they have not rejected you, but they have rejected Me from being king over them. "Like all the deeds which they have done since the day that I brought them up from Egypt even to this day—in that they have forsaken Me and served other gods—so they are doing to you also.
Background:
Things went so very well with Israel, in the chapter before, under Samuel’s administration, that, methinks, it is a pity to find him so quickly, as we do in this chapter, old, and going off, and things working towards a revolution. But so it is; Israel’s good days seldom continue long. We have here, I. Samuel decaying (v. 1). II. His sons degenerating (v. 2, 3). III. Israel discontented with the present government and anxious to see a change. For 1. They petition Samuel to set a king over them (v. 4, 5). 2. Samuel brings the matter to God (v. 6). 3. God directs him what answer to give them, by way of reproof (v. 7, 8), and by way of remonstrance, setting forth the consequences of a change of the government, and how uneasy they would soon be under it (v. 9–18). 4. They insist upon their petition (v. 19, 20). 5. Samuel promises them, from God, that they shall shortly be gratified (v. 21, 22). Thus hard is it for people to know when they are well off (Henry, 1996).
Commentary:
III. The instruction God gave him concerning this matter. Those that in straits seek to God shall find him nigh unto them, and ready to direct them. He tells him, (Henry, 1996).
1. That which would be an allay to his displeasure. Samuel was much disturbed at the proposal: it troubled him greatly to see his prophetic office thus slighted, and all the good turns he had done to Israel thus ungratefully returned; but God tells him he must not think it either hard or strange. (1.) He must not think it hard that they had put this slight upon him, for they had herein put a slight upon God himself: "They have not rejected thee only, but they have rejected me. I share with thee in the affront,’’ v. 7. Note, If God interest himself in the indignities that are done us, and the contempts that are put upon us, we may well afford to bear them patiently; nor need we think the worse of ourselves if for his sake we bear reproach (Ps. 69:7), but rather rejoice and count it an honour, Col. 1:24. Samuel must not complain that they were weary of his government, though just and gentle, for really they were weary of God’s government; this was what they disliked: They have rejected me, that I should not reign over them. God reigns over the heathen (Ps. 47:8), over all the world, but the government of Israel had hitherto been, in a more peculiar manner than ever any government was, a Theocracy, a divine government; their judges had their call and commission immediately from God; the affairs of their nation were under his peculiar direction. As the constitution, so the administration of their government, was by Thus saith the Lord; this method they were weary of, though it was their honour and safety, above any thing, so long as they kept in with God (Henry, 1996).
They were indeed so much the more exposed to calamities if they provoked God to anger by sin, and found they could not transgress at so cheap a rate as other nations could, which perhaps was the true reason why they desired to stand upon the same terms with God that other nations did. (2.) He must not think it strange, nor marvel at the matter, for they do as they always have done: According to all the works which they have done, since the day that I brought them out of Egypt, so do they unto thee, v. 8; They had at first been so very respectful and obsequious to Samuel that he began to hope they were cured of their old stubborn disposition; but now he found himself deceived in them, and must not be surprised at it. They had always been rude to their governors, witness Moses and Aaron; nay, They have forsaken me and served other gods; the greatness of their crime, in affecting new gods, may make this crime of affecting new governors seem little. Samuel might expect they would deal treacherously, for they were called transgressors from the womb, Isa. 48:8. This had been their manner from their youth up, Jer. 22:21 (Henry, 1996).
2. He tells him that which would be an answer to their demand. Samuel would not have known what to say if God had not instructed him. Should he oppose the motion, it would bespeak a greater fondness of power and dominion than did become a prophet, and an indulgence of his sons. Should he yield to the motion, it would look like the betraying of his trust, and he would become accessory to all the bad consequences of a change. Aaron sinned in gratifying the people when they said, Make us gods; Samuel dares not therefore comply with them when they say, Make us a king, but he gives them, with assurance, the answer God sent them (Henry, 1996).
Reflection:
Samuel was stricken in age, and his sons did not walk in his ways. Therefore, the people of Israel grew impatient, and wanted a king to rule over them as other nations. Samuel was not happy with their request. However, God told Samuel not to take it personal, and to listen to their voice. He also told Samuel that the people were not rejecting Samuel, they were rejecting Him; as they had done in the wilderness by worshipping other gods. He instructed Samuel to tell the people that they would have a king, but to let them know that the king would be a harsh, and cruel; and would take away everthing that they valued,; includidng putting their children in bondage (I Samuel 8:1-8).
A physical king is not who we should focus our attention on. We should focus our attention on the King of kings, and the Lord of lords to fulfill all of our needs. When we start depending on a man, a woman, a job, or someone, or something, to meet our needs; we get completely off track. When we start looking for a tangible thing to believe in "IT" becomes our god; and God is not pleased with our lack of focus. We must realize that God is a jealous God, and He will not have any other gods before him. Therefore, if there is someone, or something that is blocking your vision, or your prespective in life, reconsider why you desire for them to be in your life in the first place. God can only be God, and not man. Man cannot replace God in any way, shape our form. Therefore, wait on the timing of God to manifest what He desires for your life, which is much better than moving ahead of the head.
Strong's Concordance Definition: I Samuel 1:7
They have rejected me: 3988
1) to reject, despise, refuse
a) (Qal)
1) to reject, refuse
2) to despise
b) (Niphal) to be rejected
2) (Niphal) to flow, run
References:
Blue Letter Bible. "Book of 1 Samuel 8 - (NASB - New American Standard Bible)." Blue Letter Bible. 1996-2010. 7 Apr 2010. http://www.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=1Sa&c=8&t=NASB
Henry, Matthew. "Commentary on 1 Samuel 8." . Blue Letter Bible. 1 Mar 1996. 2010. 7 Apr 2010.
< http:// www.blueletterbible.org/commentaries/comm_view.cfm?
AuthorID=4&contentID=879&commInfo=5&topic=1%20Samuel&
ar=1Sa_8_7 >
Higgins, S. (2010). Moving Ahead of the Head. Devotions for Thought. Higgins Publishing. Http://www.devotionsforthought.blogspot.com, Http://www.higginspublishing.com
And it came about when Samuel was old that he appointed his sons judges over Israel. Now the name of his firstborn was Joel, and the name of his second, Abijah; they were judging in Beersheba. His sons, however, did not walk in his ways, but turned aside after dishonest gain and took bribes and perverted justice. Then all the elders of Israel gathered together and came to Samuel at Ramah; and they said to him, "Behold, you have grown old, and your sons do not walk in your ways. Now appoint a king for us to judge us like all the nations." But the thing was displeasing in the sight of Samuel when they said, "Give us a king to judge us." And Samuel prayed to the LORD. The LORD said to Samuel, "Listen to the voice of the people in regard to all that they say to you, for they have not rejected you, but they have rejected Me from being king over them. "Like all the deeds which they have done since the day that I brought them up from Egypt even to this day—in that they have forsaken Me and served other gods—so they are doing to you also.
Background:
Things went so very well with Israel, in the chapter before, under Samuel’s administration, that, methinks, it is a pity to find him so quickly, as we do in this chapter, old, and going off, and things working towards a revolution. But so it is; Israel’s good days seldom continue long. We have here, I. Samuel decaying (v. 1). II. His sons degenerating (v. 2, 3). III. Israel discontented with the present government and anxious to see a change. For 1. They petition Samuel to set a king over them (v. 4, 5). 2. Samuel brings the matter to God (v. 6). 3. God directs him what answer to give them, by way of reproof (v. 7, 8), and by way of remonstrance, setting forth the consequences of a change of the government, and how uneasy they would soon be under it (v. 9–18). 4. They insist upon their petition (v. 19, 20). 5. Samuel promises them, from God, that they shall shortly be gratified (v. 21, 22). Thus hard is it for people to know when they are well off (Henry, 1996).
Commentary:
III. The instruction God gave him concerning this matter. Those that in straits seek to God shall find him nigh unto them, and ready to direct them. He tells him, (Henry, 1996).
1. That which would be an allay to his displeasure. Samuel was much disturbed at the proposal: it troubled him greatly to see his prophetic office thus slighted, and all the good turns he had done to Israel thus ungratefully returned; but God tells him he must not think it either hard or strange. (1.) He must not think it hard that they had put this slight upon him, for they had herein put a slight upon God himself: "They have not rejected thee only, but they have rejected me. I share with thee in the affront,’’ v. 7. Note, If God interest himself in the indignities that are done us, and the contempts that are put upon us, we may well afford to bear them patiently; nor need we think the worse of ourselves if for his sake we bear reproach (Ps. 69:7), but rather rejoice and count it an honour, Col. 1:24. Samuel must not complain that they were weary of his government, though just and gentle, for really they were weary of God’s government; this was what they disliked: They have rejected me, that I should not reign over them. God reigns over the heathen (Ps. 47:8), over all the world, but the government of Israel had hitherto been, in a more peculiar manner than ever any government was, a Theocracy, a divine government; their judges had their call and commission immediately from God; the affairs of their nation were under his peculiar direction. As the constitution, so the administration of their government, was by Thus saith the Lord; this method they were weary of, though it was their honour and safety, above any thing, so long as they kept in with God (Henry, 1996).
They were indeed so much the more exposed to calamities if they provoked God to anger by sin, and found they could not transgress at so cheap a rate as other nations could, which perhaps was the true reason why they desired to stand upon the same terms with God that other nations did. (2.) He must not think it strange, nor marvel at the matter, for they do as they always have done: According to all the works which they have done, since the day that I brought them out of Egypt, so do they unto thee, v. 8; They had at first been so very respectful and obsequious to Samuel that he began to hope they were cured of their old stubborn disposition; but now he found himself deceived in them, and must not be surprised at it. They had always been rude to their governors, witness Moses and Aaron; nay, They have forsaken me and served other gods; the greatness of their crime, in affecting new gods, may make this crime of affecting new governors seem little. Samuel might expect they would deal treacherously, for they were called transgressors from the womb, Isa. 48:8. This had been their manner from their youth up, Jer. 22:21 (Henry, 1996).
2. He tells him that which would be an answer to their demand. Samuel would not have known what to say if God had not instructed him. Should he oppose the motion, it would bespeak a greater fondness of power and dominion than did become a prophet, and an indulgence of his sons. Should he yield to the motion, it would look like the betraying of his trust, and he would become accessory to all the bad consequences of a change. Aaron sinned in gratifying the people when they said, Make us gods; Samuel dares not therefore comply with them when they say, Make us a king, but he gives them, with assurance, the answer God sent them (Henry, 1996).
Reflection:
Samuel was stricken in age, and his sons did not walk in his ways. Therefore, the people of Israel grew impatient, and wanted a king to rule over them as other nations. Samuel was not happy with their request. However, God told Samuel not to take it personal, and to listen to their voice. He also told Samuel that the people were not rejecting Samuel, they were rejecting Him; as they had done in the wilderness by worshipping other gods. He instructed Samuel to tell the people that they would have a king, but to let them know that the king would be a harsh, and cruel; and would take away everthing that they valued,; includidng putting their children in bondage (I Samuel 8:1-8).
A physical king is not who we should focus our attention on. We should focus our attention on the King of kings, and the Lord of lords to fulfill all of our needs. When we start depending on a man, a woman, a job, or someone, or something, to meet our needs; we get completely off track. When we start looking for a tangible thing to believe in "IT" becomes our god; and God is not pleased with our lack of focus. We must realize that God is a jealous God, and He will not have any other gods before him. Therefore, if there is someone, or something that is blocking your vision, or your prespective in life, reconsider why you desire for them to be in your life in the first place. God can only be God, and not man. Man cannot replace God in any way, shape our form. Therefore, wait on the timing of God to manifest what He desires for your life, which is much better than moving ahead of the head.
Strong's Concordance Definition: I Samuel 1:7
They have rejected me: 3988
1) to reject, despise, refuse
a) (Qal)
1) to reject, refuse
2) to despise
b) (Niphal) to be rejected
2) (Niphal) to flow, run
References:
Blue Letter Bible. "Book of 1 Samuel 8 - (NASB - New American Standard Bible)." Blue Letter Bible. 1996-2010. 7 Apr 2010. http://www.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=1Sa&c=8&t=NASB
Henry, Matthew. "Commentary on 1 Samuel 8." . Blue Letter Bible. 1 Mar 1996. 2010. 7 Apr 2010.
< http:// www.blueletterbible.org/commentaries/comm_view.cfm?
AuthorID=4&contentID=879&commInfo=5&topic=1%20Samuel&
ar=1Sa_8_7 >
Higgins, S. (2010). Moving Ahead of the Head. Devotions for Thought. Higgins Publishing. Http://www.devotionsforthought.blogspot.com, Http://www.higginspublishing.com
Monday
Her Womb Speaks
Scripture(s): Samuel 1:1-8 - Highlight Scripture Samuel 1:8
Now there was a certain man from Ramathaim-zophim from the hill country of Ephraim, and his name was Elkanah the son of Jeroham, the son of Elihu, the son of Tohu, the son of Zuph, an Ephraimite. He had two wives: the name of one was Hannah and the name of the other Peninnah; and Peninnah had children, but Hannah had no children. Now this man would go up from his city yearly to worship and to sacrifice to the LORD of hosts in Shiloh. And the two sons of Eli, Hophni and Phinehas, were priests to the LORD there. When the day came that Elkanah sacrificed, he would give portions to Peninnah his wife and to all her sons and her daughters; but to Hannah he would give a double portion, for he loved Hannah, but the LORD had closed her womb. Her rival, however, would provoke her bitterly to irritate her, because the LORD had closed her womb. It happened year after year, as often as she went up to the house of the LORD, she would provoke her; so she wept and would not eat. Then Elkanah her husband said to her, "Hannah, why do you weep and why do you not eat and why is your heart sad? Am I not better to you than ten sons?"
Commentary:
The history of Samuel here begins as early as that of Samson did, even before he was born, as afterwards the history of John the Baptist and our blessed Saviour. Some of the scripture-worthies drop out of the clouds, as it were, and their first appearance is in their full growth and lustre. But others are accounted for from the birth, and from the womb, and from the conception. What God says of the prophet Jeremiah is true of all: "Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee,’’ Jer. 1:5. But some great men were brought into the world with more observation than others, and were more early distinguished from common persons, as Samuel for one. God, in this matter, acts as a free agent. The story of Samson introduces him as a child of promise, Jdg. 13. But the story of Samuel introduces him as a child of prayer. Samson’s birth was foretold by an angel to his mother; Samuel was asked of God by his mother. Both together intimate what wonders are produced by the word and prayer. Samuel’s mother was Hannah, the principal person concerned in the story of this chapter. I. Here is her affliction—she was childless, and this affliction aggravated by her rival’s insolence, but in some measure balanced by her husband’s kindness (v. 1-8). II. The prayer and vow she made to God under this affliction, in which Eli the high priest at first censured her, but afterwards encouraged her (v. 9–18). III. The birth and nursing of Samuel (v. 19–23) IV. The presenting of him to the Lord (v. 24–28).
Reflection:
Hannah had a good husband by the name of Elknah, who provided for her. There was nothing that she had need of. However, she lacked a hidden desire within her heart because it was burried within her womb. She was driven to not participate in a celebration that included food; for she was full of sorrow because she was barren. She did not eat, nor did she drink. It appears that she was not thankful for the blessings that she had received. However, the child that was yet to be born of her womb, was pulling on his purpose within her. She could not let go of the driving force within her to give birth to Samuel the prophet. Nothing else could satisfy her. Only God could fulfill the desire that burned within her to bring forth the son for his purpose, and his glory. The ridicule that she received for being barren, propelled her even more into the hands of her destiny to give birth to promise. Hannah is every woman's example to never let go of the inner propelling towards one's purpose. If a desire is tugging on one's heart, seek God wholeheartedly. He will reveal himself to those that seek his face.
Strong's Concordance Definition: Samuel 1:8
Husband :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)
Better: 2896
1) good, pleasant, agreeable
a) pleasant, agreeable (to the senses)
b) pleasant (to the higher nature)
c) good, excellent (of its kind)
d) good, rich, valuable in estimation
e) good, appropriate, becoming
f) better (comparative)
g) glad, happy, prosperous (of man's sensuous nature)
h) good understanding (of man's intellectual nature)
i) good, kind, benign
j) good, right (ethical)
References:
Blue Letter Bible. "Book of 1 Samuel 1 - (NASB - New American Standard Bible)." Blue Letter Bible. 1996-2010. 5 Apr 2010. http://www.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=1Sa&c=1&t=NASB
Henry, Matthew. "Commentary on 1 Samuel 1." . Blue Letter Bible. 1 Mar 1996. 2010. 5 Apr 2010.
http:// www.blueletterbible.org/commentaries/comm_view.cfm?
AuthorID=4&contentID=872&commInfo=5&topic=1%20Samuel&
ar=1Sa_1_8
Higgins, S. (2010). Her Womb Speaks. Devotions for Thought. Higgins Publishing. Http://www.devotionsforthought.blogspot.com, http://www.higginspublishing.com
Now there was a certain man from Ramathaim-zophim from the hill country of Ephraim, and his name was Elkanah the son of Jeroham, the son of Elihu, the son of Tohu, the son of Zuph, an Ephraimite. He had two wives: the name of one was Hannah and the name of the other Peninnah; and Peninnah had children, but Hannah had no children. Now this man would go up from his city yearly to worship and to sacrifice to the LORD of hosts in Shiloh. And the two sons of Eli, Hophni and Phinehas, were priests to the LORD there. When the day came that Elkanah sacrificed, he would give portions to Peninnah his wife and to all her sons and her daughters; but to Hannah he would give a double portion, for he loved Hannah, but the LORD had closed her womb. Her rival, however, would provoke her bitterly to irritate her, because the LORD had closed her womb. It happened year after year, as often as she went up to the house of the LORD, she would provoke her; so she wept and would not eat. Then Elkanah her husband said to her, "Hannah, why do you weep and why do you not eat and why is your heart sad? Am I not better to you than ten sons?"
Commentary:
The history of Samuel here begins as early as that of Samson did, even before he was born, as afterwards the history of John the Baptist and our blessed Saviour. Some of the scripture-worthies drop out of the clouds, as it were, and their first appearance is in their full growth and lustre. But others are accounted for from the birth, and from the womb, and from the conception. What God says of the prophet Jeremiah is true of all: "Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee,’’ Jer. 1:5. But some great men were brought into the world with more observation than others, and were more early distinguished from common persons, as Samuel for one. God, in this matter, acts as a free agent. The story of Samson introduces him as a child of promise, Jdg. 13. But the story of Samuel introduces him as a child of prayer. Samson’s birth was foretold by an angel to his mother; Samuel was asked of God by his mother. Both together intimate what wonders are produced by the word and prayer. Samuel’s mother was Hannah, the principal person concerned in the story of this chapter. I. Here is her affliction—she was childless, and this affliction aggravated by her rival’s insolence, but in some measure balanced by her husband’s kindness (v. 1-8). II. The prayer and vow she made to God under this affliction, in which Eli the high priest at first censured her, but afterwards encouraged her (v. 9–18). III. The birth and nursing of Samuel (v. 19–23) IV. The presenting of him to the Lord (v. 24–28).
Reflection:
Hannah had a good husband by the name of Elknah, who provided for her. There was nothing that she had need of. However, she lacked a hidden desire within her heart because it was burried within her womb. She was driven to not participate in a celebration that included food; for she was full of sorrow because she was barren. She did not eat, nor did she drink. It appears that she was not thankful for the blessings that she had received. However, the child that was yet to be born of her womb, was pulling on his purpose within her. She could not let go of the driving force within her to give birth to Samuel the prophet. Nothing else could satisfy her. Only God could fulfill the desire that burned within her to bring forth the son for his purpose, and his glory. The ridicule that she received for being barren, propelled her even more into the hands of her destiny to give birth to promise. Hannah is every woman's example to never let go of the inner propelling towards one's purpose. If a desire is tugging on one's heart, seek God wholeheartedly. He will reveal himself to those that seek his face.
Strong's Concordance Definition: Samuel 1:8
Husband :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)
Better: 2896
1) good, pleasant, agreeable
a) pleasant, agreeable (to the senses)
b) pleasant (to the higher nature)
c) good, excellent (of its kind)
d) good, rich, valuable in estimation
e) good, appropriate, becoming
f) better (comparative)
g) glad, happy, prosperous (of man's sensuous nature)
h) good understanding (of man's intellectual nature)
i) good, kind, benign
j) good, right (ethical)
References:
Blue Letter Bible. "Book of 1 Samuel 1 - (NASB - New American Standard Bible)." Blue Letter Bible. 1996-2010. 5 Apr 2010. http://www.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=1Sa&c=1&t=NASB
Henry, Matthew. "Commentary on 1 Samuel 1." . Blue Letter Bible. 1 Mar 1996. 2010. 5 Apr 2010.
http:// www.blueletterbible.org/commentaries/comm_view.cfm?
AuthorID=4&contentID=872&commInfo=5&topic=1%20Samuel&
ar=1Sa_1_8
Higgins, S. (2010). Her Womb Speaks. Devotions for Thought. Higgins Publishing. Http://www.devotionsforthought.blogspot.com, http://www.higginspublishing.com
Sunday
He Is Risen, Go Quickly!
Scripture(s): Matthew 28:1-7
Now after the Sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first {day} of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary came to look at the grave. And behold, a severe earthquake had occurred, for an angel of the Lord descended from heaven and came and rolled away the stone and sat upon it. And his appearance was like lightning, and his clothing as white as snow. The guards shook for fear of him and became like dead men. The angel said to the women, "Do not be afraid; for I know that you are looking for Jesus who has been crucified. "He is not here, for He has risen, just as He said. Come, see the place where He was lying. "Go quickly and tell His disciples that He has risen from the dead; and behold, He is going ahead of you into Galilee, there you will see Him; behold, I have told you."
Commentary:
Mary Magdalene and Mary went to the tomb of Jesus expecting to find his body. However, to their surprise, an Angel of the Lord met them and guided them to the place were Jesus had lain. The Angel informed them that Jesus had risen from the dead, and for them to go and tell His disciples; and that He would meet them in Galilee. The Angel also told them that Jesus had already went ahead, and would meet them there. The two women were the first women to preach about the resurrection of Jesus from the dead, directly to His disciples. God used their voices to proclaim that He had risen from the dead; and that He indeed was alive, as He said that He would be.
The Angel told them to go quickly. Time was of the essence, because those that opposed Jesus would soon hear about His resurrection, and make up a story that the disciples had come in the night and stole His body. The soilders that were at the tomb, were paid to hold to this lie, that was created by those in authority. Those that were in high places did not want anyone to know what had really happened, so they covered up the truth, with a bogus story designed to protect their position of authority.
Reflection:
When God says for us to do something, it is for us to do it now; not wait until we feel like it, or wait until it fits into our schedule. There is a purpose for the timing of God. Everything is designed to take place on a given date, at a given time. When we fail to act on what God is giving us to do in the moment, we miss a moment that can possibly never be regained again. Why take the chance? Maybe the moment in time will resurface once again, but we should not take the timing of God lightly. Therefore, when He says for us to do something, we should do it in the moment. His timing is perfect timing. We cannot figure out the mind of God. He always knows what's best. Therefore the next time He says to do something, do it quickly!
Strong's Concordance Definitions:
Go: 4198
1) to lead over, carry over, transfer
a) to pursue the journey on which one has entered, to continue on one's journey
b) to depart from life
c) to follow one, that is: become his adherent
1) to lead or order one's life
Quickly: 5035
1) quickly, speedily (without delay)
Tell: 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
His disciples: 3101
1) a learner, pupil, disciple
that He has risen: 1453
1) to arouse, cause to rise
a) to arouse from sleep, to awake
b) to arouse from the sleep of death, to recall the dead to life
c) to cause to rise from a seat or bed etc.
d) to raise up, produce, cause to appear
1) to cause to appear, bring before the public
2) to raise up, stir up, against one
3) to raise up i.e. cause to be born
4) of buildings, to raise up, construct, erect
from the dead: 3498
1) properly
a) one that has breathed his last, lifeless
b) deceased, departed, one whose soul is in heaven or hell
c) destitute of life, without life, inanimate
2) metaph.
a) spiritually dead
1) destitute of a life that recognises and is devoted to God, because given up to trespasses and sins
2) inactive as respects doing right
b) destitute of force or power, inactive, inoperative
He is going ahead: 4254
1) to lead forward, lead forth
a) one from a place in which he has lain hidden from view, as from a prison
b) in a forensic sense, to bring one forth to trial
2) to go before
a) preceding, prior in time, previous
b) to proceed, go forward
1) in a bad sense, to go further than is right. or proper
of you into Galilee: 1056
Galilee = "Circuit"
you will see: 3708
1) to see with the eyes
2) to see with the mind, to perceive, know
3) to see, i.e. become acquainted with by experience, to experience
4) to see, to look to
a) to take heed, beware
b) to care for, pay heed to
5) I was seen, showed myself, appeared
References:
Blue Letter Bible. "Gospel of Matthew 28 - (NASB - New American Standard Bible)." Blue Letter Bible. 1996-2010. 17 Feb 2010. http://www.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=Mat&c=28&t=NASB
Higgins, S. (2010). He Is Risen, Go Quickly! Devotions For Thought. Higgins Publishing. Http://www.devotionsforthought.blogspot.com, http://www.higginspublishing.com
Now after the Sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first {day} of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary came to look at the grave. And behold, a severe earthquake had occurred, for an angel of the Lord descended from heaven and came and rolled away the stone and sat upon it. And his appearance was like lightning, and his clothing as white as snow. The guards shook for fear of him and became like dead men. The angel said to the women, "Do not be afraid; for I know that you are looking for Jesus who has been crucified. "He is not here, for He has risen, just as He said. Come, see the place where He was lying. "Go quickly and tell His disciples that He has risen from the dead; and behold, He is going ahead of you into Galilee, there you will see Him; behold, I have told you."
Commentary:
Mary Magdalene and Mary went to the tomb of Jesus expecting to find his body. However, to their surprise, an Angel of the Lord met them and guided them to the place were Jesus had lain. The Angel informed them that Jesus had risen from the dead, and for them to go and tell His disciples; and that He would meet them in Galilee. The Angel also told them that Jesus had already went ahead, and would meet them there. The two women were the first women to preach about the resurrection of Jesus from the dead, directly to His disciples. God used their voices to proclaim that He had risen from the dead; and that He indeed was alive, as He said that He would be.
The Angel told them to go quickly. Time was of the essence, because those that opposed Jesus would soon hear about His resurrection, and make up a story that the disciples had come in the night and stole His body. The soilders that were at the tomb, were paid to hold to this lie, that was created by those in authority. Those that were in high places did not want anyone to know what had really happened, so they covered up the truth, with a bogus story designed to protect their position of authority.
Reflection:
When God says for us to do something, it is for us to do it now; not wait until we feel like it, or wait until it fits into our schedule. There is a purpose for the timing of God. Everything is designed to take place on a given date, at a given time. When we fail to act on what God is giving us to do in the moment, we miss a moment that can possibly never be regained again. Why take the chance? Maybe the moment in time will resurface once again, but we should not take the timing of God lightly. Therefore, when He says for us to do something, we should do it in the moment. His timing is perfect timing. We cannot figure out the mind of God. He always knows what's best. Therefore the next time He says to do something, do it quickly!
Strong's Concordance Definitions:
Go: 4198
1) to lead over, carry over, transfer
a) to pursue the journey on which one has entered, to continue on one's journey
b) to depart from life
c) to follow one, that is: become his adherent
1) to lead or order one's life
Quickly: 5035
1) quickly, speedily (without delay)
Tell: 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
His disciples: 3101
1) a learner, pupil, disciple
that He has risen: 1453
1) to arouse, cause to rise
a) to arouse from sleep, to awake
b) to arouse from the sleep of death, to recall the dead to life
c) to cause to rise from a seat or bed etc.
d) to raise up, produce, cause to appear
1) to cause to appear, bring before the public
2) to raise up, stir up, against one
3) to raise up i.e. cause to be born
4) of buildings, to raise up, construct, erect
from the dead: 3498
1) properly
a) one that has breathed his last, lifeless
b) deceased, departed, one whose soul is in heaven or hell
c) destitute of life, without life, inanimate
2) metaph.
a) spiritually dead
1) destitute of a life that recognises and is devoted to God, because given up to trespasses and sins
2) inactive as respects doing right
b) destitute of force or power, inactive, inoperative
He is going ahead: 4254
1) to lead forward, lead forth
a) one from a place in which he has lain hidden from view, as from a prison
b) in a forensic sense, to bring one forth to trial
2) to go before
a) preceding, prior in time, previous
b) to proceed, go forward
1) in a bad sense, to go further than is right. or proper
of you into Galilee: 1056
Galilee = "Circuit"
you will see: 3708
1) to see with the eyes
2) to see with the mind, to perceive, know
3) to see, i.e. become acquainted with by experience, to experience
4) to see, to look to
a) to take heed, beware
b) to care for, pay heed to
5) I was seen, showed myself, appeared
References:
Blue Letter Bible. "Gospel of Matthew 28 - (NASB - New American Standard Bible)." Blue Letter Bible. 1996-2010. 17 Feb 2010. http://www.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=Mat&c=28&t=NASB
Higgins, S. (2010). He Is Risen, Go Quickly! Devotions For Thought. Higgins Publishing. Http://www.devotionsforthought.blogspot.com, http://www.higginspublishing.com
Thursday
Prospective Hope
Scripture(s): Judges 13:21-23
Now the angel of the LORD did not appear to Manoah or his wife again. Then Manoah knew that he was the angel of the LORD. So Manoah said to his wife, "We will surely die, for we have seen God." But his wife said to him, "If the LORD had desired to kill us, He would not have accepted a burnt offering and a grain offering from our hands, nor would He have shown us all these things, nor would He have let us hear things like this at this time."
Commentary:
At this chapter begins the story of Samson, the last of the judges of Israel whose story is recorded in this book, and next before Eli. The passages related concerning him are, from first to last, very surprising and uncommon. The figure he makes in this history is really great, and yet vastly different from that of his predecessors. We never find him at the head either of a court or of an army, never upon the throne of judgment nor in the field of battle, yet, in his own proper person, a great patriot of his country, and a terrible scourge and check to its enemies and oppressors; he was an eminent believer (Heb. 11:32) and a glorious type of him who with his own arm wrought salvation. The history of the rest of the judges commences from their advancement to that station, but Samson’s begins with his birth, nay, with his conception, no less than an angel from heaven ushers him into the world, as a pattern of what should be afterwards done to John Baptist and to Christ. This is related in this chapter. I. The occasion of raising up this deliverer was the oppression of Israel by the Philistines (v. 1). II. His birth is foretold by an angel to his mother (v. 2-5). III. She relates the prediction to his father (v. 6, 7). IV. They both together have it again from the angel (v. 8–14), whom they treat with respect (v. 15–18), and who, to their great amazement, discovers his dignity at parting (v. 19–23). V. Samson is born (v. 24, 25).
v. 21. It was plain it was not the body of a man they saw, since it was not chained to the earth, nor prejudiced by fire; but ascended, and ascended in flame, and therefore with good reason they conclude it was an angel; for he maketh his angels spirits, and his ministers a flame of fire. [2.] But he did not any more appear to them; it was for a particular occasion, now over, that he was sent, not to settle a constant correspondence, as with prophets. They must remember and observe what the angel had said and not expect to hear more (Henry, 1996).
II. We have an account of the impressions which this vision made upon Manoah and his wife. While the angel did wondrously, they looked on, and said nothing (so it becomes us carefully to observe the wondrous works of God, and to be silent before him); but when he had gone, having finished his work, they had time to make their reflections. 1. In Manoah’s reflection upon it there is great fear, v. 22. He had spoken with great assurance of the son they should shortly be the joyful parents of (v. 8, 12), and yet is now put into such a confusion by that very thing which should have strengthened and encouraged his faith that he counts upon nothing but their being both cut off immediately: We shall surely die. It was a vulgar opinion generally received among the ancient Jews that it was present death to see God or an angel; and this notion quite overcome his faith for the present, as it did Gideon’s, ch. 6:22 (Henry, 1996).
2. In his wife’s reflection upon it there is great faith, v. 23. Here the weaker vessel was the stronger believer, which perhaps was the reason why the angel chose once and again to appear to her. Manoah’s heart began to fail him, but his wife, as a help meet for him, encouraged him. Two are better than one, for, if one fall into dejections and despondencies, the other will help to raise him up. Yoke-fellows should piously assist each other’s faith and joy as there is occasion. None could argue better than Manoah’s wife does here: We shall surely die, said her husband; "Nay,’’ said she, "we need not fear that; let us never turn that against us which is really for us. We shall not die unless God be pleased to kill us: our death must come from his hand and his pleasure. Now the tokens of his favour which we have received forbid us to think that he designs our destruction. Had he thought fit to kill us, (Henry, 1996).
(1.) He would not have accepted our sacrifice, and signified to us his acceptance of it by turning it to ashes, Ps. 20:3, margin. The sacrifice was the ransom of our lives, and the fire fastening upon that was a plain indication of the turning away of his wrath from us. The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination, but you see ours is not so. (2.) He would not have shown us all these things, these strange sights, now at a time when there is little or no open vision (1 Sa. 3:1), nor would he have given these exceedingly great and precious promises of a son that shall be a Nazarite and a deliverer of Israel—he would not have told us such things as these if he had been pleased to kill us. We need not fear the withering of those roots out of which such a branch is yet to spring.’’ Note, Hereby it appears that God designs not the death of sinners that he has accepted the great sacrifice which Christ offered up for their salvation, has put them in a way of obtaining his favour, and has assured them of it upon their repentance (Henry, 1996).
Had he been pleased to kill them, he would not have done so. And let those good Christians who have had communion with God in the word and prayer, to whom he has graciously manifested himself, and who have had reason to think God has accepted their works, take encouragement thence in a cloudy and dark day. "God would not have done what he has done for my soul if he had designed to forsake me, and leave me to perish at last; for his work is perfect, nor will he mock his people with his favours.’’ Learn to reason as Manoah’s wife did, "If God had designed me to perish under his wrath, he would not have given me such distinguishing tokens of his favour.’’ O woman! great is thy faith (Henry, 1996).
Reflection:
Our flesh would have us to think, that because the promises that God has spoken over our lives seem to be at such a great distance from us; that they are not going to manifest. If God was not going to bring the promises that he has spoken over our lives into existence; He would not have spoken them in the first place. He would not keep bringing us his word, which is full of promises to us. He would not keep bringing us prophecies, that confirm his promises to us. He would not keep bringing us witnesses, that reconfirm the promises that he has continuously spoken, over and over again. We must remember to hold onto the promises of God; just like: Manoha's wife, father Abraham, Elizabeth the mother of John the Baptist, and Mary the mother of Jesus. Our hope is not in the promises of one that does not fulfill his, or her word. Our prospective hope is in the one, and only, true and living God; to fulfill every word that He has spoken to us. God would not play a game on us, or foolishly jester to make us hope for something that will never be. What He said, He will do.
References:
Blue Letter Bible. "Book of Judges 13 - (NASB - New American Standard Bible)." Blue Letter Bible. 1996-2010. 1 Apr 2010. http://www.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=Jdg&c=13&t=NASB
Henry, Matthew. "Commentary on Judges 13." . Blue Letter Bible. 1 Mar 1996. 2010. 1 Apr 2010.
http:// www.blueletterbible.org/commentaries/comm_view.cfm?
AuthorID=4&contentID=857&commInfo=5&topic=Judges&ar=Jdg_13_21
Higgins, S. (2010). Prospective Hope. Devotions for Thought. Higgins Publishing. Http://www.devotionsforthought.blogspot.com, Http://www.higginspublishing.com
Now the angel of the LORD did not appear to Manoah or his wife again. Then Manoah knew that he was the angel of the LORD. So Manoah said to his wife, "We will surely die, for we have seen God." But his wife said to him, "If the LORD had desired to kill us, He would not have accepted a burnt offering and a grain offering from our hands, nor would He have shown us all these things, nor would He have let us hear things like this at this time."
Commentary:
At this chapter begins the story of Samson, the last of the judges of Israel whose story is recorded in this book, and next before Eli. The passages related concerning him are, from first to last, very surprising and uncommon. The figure he makes in this history is really great, and yet vastly different from that of his predecessors. We never find him at the head either of a court or of an army, never upon the throne of judgment nor in the field of battle, yet, in his own proper person, a great patriot of his country, and a terrible scourge and check to its enemies and oppressors; he was an eminent believer (Heb. 11:32) and a glorious type of him who with his own arm wrought salvation. The history of the rest of the judges commences from their advancement to that station, but Samson’s begins with his birth, nay, with his conception, no less than an angel from heaven ushers him into the world, as a pattern of what should be afterwards done to John Baptist and to Christ. This is related in this chapter. I. The occasion of raising up this deliverer was the oppression of Israel by the Philistines (v. 1). II. His birth is foretold by an angel to his mother (v. 2-5). III. She relates the prediction to his father (v. 6, 7). IV. They both together have it again from the angel (v. 8–14), whom they treat with respect (v. 15–18), and who, to their great amazement, discovers his dignity at parting (v. 19–23). V. Samson is born (v. 24, 25).
v. 21. It was plain it was not the body of a man they saw, since it was not chained to the earth, nor prejudiced by fire; but ascended, and ascended in flame, and therefore with good reason they conclude it was an angel; for he maketh his angels spirits, and his ministers a flame of fire. [2.] But he did not any more appear to them; it was for a particular occasion, now over, that he was sent, not to settle a constant correspondence, as with prophets. They must remember and observe what the angel had said and not expect to hear more (Henry, 1996).
II. We have an account of the impressions which this vision made upon Manoah and his wife. While the angel did wondrously, they looked on, and said nothing (so it becomes us carefully to observe the wondrous works of God, and to be silent before him); but when he had gone, having finished his work, they had time to make their reflections. 1. In Manoah’s reflection upon it there is great fear, v. 22. He had spoken with great assurance of the son they should shortly be the joyful parents of (v. 8, 12), and yet is now put into such a confusion by that very thing which should have strengthened and encouraged his faith that he counts upon nothing but their being both cut off immediately: We shall surely die. It was a vulgar opinion generally received among the ancient Jews that it was present death to see God or an angel; and this notion quite overcome his faith for the present, as it did Gideon’s, ch. 6:22 (Henry, 1996).
2. In his wife’s reflection upon it there is great faith, v. 23. Here the weaker vessel was the stronger believer, which perhaps was the reason why the angel chose once and again to appear to her. Manoah’s heart began to fail him, but his wife, as a help meet for him, encouraged him. Two are better than one, for, if one fall into dejections and despondencies, the other will help to raise him up. Yoke-fellows should piously assist each other’s faith and joy as there is occasion. None could argue better than Manoah’s wife does here: We shall surely die, said her husband; "Nay,’’ said she, "we need not fear that; let us never turn that against us which is really for us. We shall not die unless God be pleased to kill us: our death must come from his hand and his pleasure. Now the tokens of his favour which we have received forbid us to think that he designs our destruction. Had he thought fit to kill us, (Henry, 1996).
(1.) He would not have accepted our sacrifice, and signified to us his acceptance of it by turning it to ashes, Ps. 20:3, margin. The sacrifice was the ransom of our lives, and the fire fastening upon that was a plain indication of the turning away of his wrath from us. The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination, but you see ours is not so. (2.) He would not have shown us all these things, these strange sights, now at a time when there is little or no open vision (1 Sa. 3:1), nor would he have given these exceedingly great and precious promises of a son that shall be a Nazarite and a deliverer of Israel—he would not have told us such things as these if he had been pleased to kill us. We need not fear the withering of those roots out of which such a branch is yet to spring.’’ Note, Hereby it appears that God designs not the death of sinners that he has accepted the great sacrifice which Christ offered up for their salvation, has put them in a way of obtaining his favour, and has assured them of it upon their repentance (Henry, 1996).
Had he been pleased to kill them, he would not have done so. And let those good Christians who have had communion with God in the word and prayer, to whom he has graciously manifested himself, and who have had reason to think God has accepted their works, take encouragement thence in a cloudy and dark day. "God would not have done what he has done for my soul if he had designed to forsake me, and leave me to perish at last; for his work is perfect, nor will he mock his people with his favours.’’ Learn to reason as Manoah’s wife did, "If God had designed me to perish under his wrath, he would not have given me such distinguishing tokens of his favour.’’ O woman! great is thy faith (Henry, 1996).
Reflection:
Our flesh would have us to think, that because the promises that God has spoken over our lives seem to be at such a great distance from us; that they are not going to manifest. If God was not going to bring the promises that he has spoken over our lives into existence; He would not have spoken them in the first place. He would not keep bringing us his word, which is full of promises to us. He would not keep bringing us prophecies, that confirm his promises to us. He would not keep bringing us witnesses, that reconfirm the promises that he has continuously spoken, over and over again. We must remember to hold onto the promises of God; just like: Manoha's wife, father Abraham, Elizabeth the mother of John the Baptist, and Mary the mother of Jesus. Our hope is not in the promises of one that does not fulfill his, or her word. Our prospective hope is in the one, and only, true and living God; to fulfill every word that He has spoken to us. God would not play a game on us, or foolishly jester to make us hope for something that will never be. What He said, He will do.
References:
Blue Letter Bible. "Book of Judges 13 - (NASB - New American Standard Bible)." Blue Letter Bible. 1996-2010. 1 Apr 2010. http://www.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=Jdg&c=13&t=NASB
Henry, Matthew. "Commentary on Judges 13." . Blue Letter Bible. 1 Mar 1996. 2010. 1 Apr 2010.
http:// www.blueletterbible.org/commentaries/comm_view.cfm?
AuthorID=4&contentID=857&commInfo=5&topic=Judges&ar=Jdg_13_21
Higgins, S. (2010). Prospective Hope. Devotions for Thought. Higgins Publishing. Http://www.devotionsforthought.blogspot.com, Http://www.higginspublishing.com
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